Polaris 280 vs. 380

[PorkChopPool]

Which Polaris should I buy - 280 or 380? - I've seen mixed reviews.
Is the 280 with the wheels (versus the tank trax model ) ok for vinyl pools?
I assume the 380 with wheels is ok for vinyl since it doesn't offer a tank trax model.

I have a vinyl pool that came with the house we bought 2 years ago. I'm slowly replacing the equipment.
I do have a dedicated line and pump (pump also needs replaced)

Thanks

 

[Qwaxalot]

I much prefer the 280 over the 380. They're more durable and easier to repair.

We have many liner pools with 280's or 380's, the stock tires don't seem to cause any trouble.

 

[DBfan187]

280 hands down

 

[UnderWaterVanya]

I have a 380 and think it works great but I have never used a 280 so I have no way to compare. The 380 manual does say the wheels can cause wear patterns on vinyl liners - I have not seen this but my liner is old and simply patterned. I would expect the tracks to reduce the potential for wear.

 

[ROB N]

The 280 is gear driven and the 380 is belt driven. The belt tends to wear out on the 380 requiring more maintenance.