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Hayward Pool Cleaners: Navigator Pro vs. Pool Vac XL

The Hayward Navigator Pro and Hayward Pool Vac XL are two of the most popular suction side cleaners for pool owners. So it’s no surprise why customers want to know which cleaner outperforms the other when compared side-by-side. Below is a quick summary of the Hayward Navigator Pro and Pool Vac XL suction side cleaners, detailing the strengths and weaknesses of both models.

Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Side Cleaner

Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Side Cleaner

Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Side Cleaner

Hayward Navigator Pro Suction Side Cleaner

The Hayward Navigator Pro is a classic suction side cleaner, recommended by many homeowners and pool professionals due to it’s ease of use and reliability. Available in two models for concrete pools or vinyl pools, the Navigator Pro is easy to set-up and quickly connects to a dedicated suction line to scrub and clean your pool. Preprogrammed into the cleaner, Hayward's SmartDrive Technology eliminates tangled hoses, and ensures the cleaner scrubs and cleans all areas of your pool. The Navigator Pro cleans and removes small and large debris from your pool for clear and clean water. Although the Navigator Pro has a reputation for quick and quiet operation, it occasionally runs into some issues, like getting stuck on stairs and drains.

Navigator Pro Benefits

  • Scrubs and vacuums the pool's floors and walls.
  • SmartDrive technology maps out your pool to ensure a complete and thorough clean every time.
  • Simple operation makes keeping your pool easier than ever.
  • Turbine Drive technology keeps your cleaner smooth and quiet as it works through your pool.
  • For added cleaning power and efficiency, the Hayward In-Line Leaf Canister traps large debris before it heads into the pool skimmer.

Hayward Pool Vac XL Suction Side Cleaner

Hayward Pool Vac XL Suction Side Cleaner

Hayward Pool Vac XL Suction Side Cleaner

Hayward Pool Vac XL Suction Side Cleaner

The Hayward Pool Vac XL is another well known staple in the pool community. It scrubs and cleans your pool in the same way as the Navigator. The Pool Vac XL, which also features a concrete pool and vinyl pool model, uses Hayward’s AquaPilot Technology to navigate around your pool. The preprogrammed steering technology creates a path in which the Pool Vac XL successfully cleans your pool for hands-free operation. It also uses Hayward’s Turbine Technology, ensuring quiet operation while cleaning. As with the Navigator, the Pool Vac XL has a reputation for getting stuck on areas like stairs or drains.

Pool Vac XL Benefits

  • Scrubs and vacuums the pool's floors and walls.
  • AquaPilot technology lets you pre-program the cleaner's steering for a spotless, full coverage clean.
  • Simple operation makes keeping your pool easier than ever.
  • Turbine Drive technology keeps your cleaner smooth and quiet as it works through your pool.
  • For added cleaning power and efficiency, the Hayward In-Line Leaf Canister traps large debris before it heads into the pool skimmer.


When comparing the two cleaners, both look similar and offer the same high quality clean. This is because the two cleaners have the same structural and mechanical components. The Hayward Navigator Pro and Pool Vac XL are essentially the same cleaner. While the design differs a bit, pool owners will get the same quality and performance from either cleaner. The choice to pick the Navigator Pro or Pool Vac XL rests solely on what look you prefer more! Stop by your local Leslie's or shop online for all your pool cleaning needs and equipment.

Top Products

Hayward - W3925ADC Navigator Pro Suction Side Pool Cleaner

Hayward Navigator

Hayward - Pool Vac XL Suction Side Pool Cleaner

Hayward Pool Vac

Hayward Cleaner Parts

Hayward Parts



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Leslie’s makes every effort to provide accurate recommendations based upon current ANSI/APSP/ICC-5 2011 (R2022) standards, but codes and regulations change, and Leslie’s assumes no liability for any omissions or errors in this article or the outcome of any project. You must always exercise reasonable caution, carefully read the label on all products, follow all product directions, follow any current codes and regulations that may apply, and consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. Leslie’s assumes no legal responsibility for your reliance or interpretation of the data contained herein, and makes no representations or warranties of any kind concerning the quality, safety, or suitability of the information, whether express or implied, including, without limitation, any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose.