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By Brian Williamson | Written on March 2nd, 2024
Imagine a world where pool cleaning robots are intelligent and friendly. A future where the manual chore of pool cleaning becomes a relic of the past, replaced by intelligent robotics.
Well, what if I told you this dream can be a reality? The solution – a Dolphin robotic pool cleaner.
I’ve tested nearly every top robotic pool cleaner. After uncovering the best robotic pool cleaners of the year, I wanted to take it a step further and dive deeply into the Dolphin brand. With over 40+ models, it is hard to differentiate them. While some models appear to look identical, they may be missing crucial features such as programmable timers and NanoFilters. In this segment, I’ll go over the top Dolphin robotic pool cleaners and separate the must have features from the fluff.
Why trust me? Well for over 6 years, I’ve worked in the swimming pool industry. With hundreds of hours of hands-on experience split between nearly every Dolphin pool cleaner, I am here to tell you what features work and can benefit your pool the most.
With real, in-person testing and inspection, we carefully have crafted this guide to help ease the confusion when choosing the best Dolphin pool robot. If you need more help along the way, don't hesitate to contact us. So let’s dive in.
While the pool industry hasn’t changed much in the last 20 years, there has been a significant advancement in the pool cleaning space. Dolphin pool cleaners stand at the forefront of this revolution, offering pool owners not just a tool, but a partner in keeping their swimming pools clean with minimal effort.
The freedom a robotic pool cleaner can bring is huge. By eliminating the need to manually scrub and vacuum, you’ll save time and money. With impressive vacuuming power, a robotic pool cleaner acts like a roomba for your pool. Before we dive in-depth to each of these Top 2024 Dolphin models, here is a quick list:
Dolphin has led the robotic pool cleaner industry for over 40 years. In what I consider one of the most reliable and best-performing brands, Maytronics’ Dolphin pool cleaner line stands out as the top robotic pool cleaner company. The company manufactures about half of all the robotic pool cleaners sold each year.
Navigating so many Dolphin models can get confusing. With lineups such as the Dolphin ProLine, Max-Series, Explorer, and more, it may seem like a lot of Dolphin robots overlap. However, they usually are differentiated by 4 key differences such as:
The cornerstone of any Dolphin pool cleaner is its filtration system. What most people don’t realize is most models only come with one filter: the standard mesh filter. It’s great for cleaning larger debris, but it fails to capture smaller particles like fine sand, dirt, and algae.
That’s where NanoFilters come in. These are the second generation of filters from Maytronics. These high-efficiency particulate filters have smaller pores that stop debris that would otherwise pass right through the standard filter.
The ability to filter and enhance water clarity is unparalleled. Exclusive to 2024 Dolphin ProLine and Dolphin Max-Series models, these filters impressed us while testing. Side by side, you can see the difference and how much better the cleaning performance is when you get a Dolphin robot with NanoFilters.
Motors are the heart of a pool robot. Across the Dolphin lineup, you can notice a difference in the motors. Select robots, such as the ProLine, utilize the larger commercial-grade motors taken from the Dolphin Wave Commercial lineup.
These motors are more powerful and efficient. This allows them to utilize a host of features not found in other robots, such as waterline cleaning, MultiMedia, and Quad Scrubbing Brushes. So when shopping for your robotic pool cleaner, make sure to keep the motor and suction power in mind.
A standout feature of the premium Dolphin pool robots is waterline cleaning. Usually powered by more powerful motors, this feature allows the robot to scale the walls and move horizontally at the waterline.
If you’re like me, you’ve dealt with algae and bacteria buildup here. Without consistent cleaning, your pool can develop a buildup here often called a scum line. With waterline cleaning, your pool robot can automatically clean and scrub this problematic area.
Be careful though! Don’t be fooled by robots that only have wall climbing. These robots will only be able to reach the upper parts of the walls but won’t hover at the waterline and scrub horizontally. The waterline is the dirtiest part of many pools and unfortunately this area gets missed by 80% of robotic pool cleaners.
Warranty coverage is a critical factor when choosing your robotic pool cleaner, offering peace of mind and assurance of the product's longevity. Dolphin distinguishes itself with warranties extending up to 3 years on residential cleaners, a significant advantage over competitors.
Most Dolphin pool robots only come with a 2-year warranty. But the premium models usually get the 50% longer 3-year warranty that is often coupled with a better feature set and cleaning ability.
For those seeking the best performance and great value, look no further than the Dolphin Premier. We found the Premier to be the best of the best in our testing. The Premier performs so well that even USA Today named the Dolphin Premier the “best robotic pool cleaner of 2024. It’s that good.
But what makes the Premier stand out? While it shares a lot of similarities with other Dolphin pool cleaners on our list, the value proposition is unmatched. You get a great bang for your buck. With a longer 3-year warranty and exclusive features only found on the Premier such as Multi-Media and an Oversized Leaf Bag, let’s dive into what makes the Premier special.
Pool cleaning has never been more automated. The weekly timer with Media-Alert is super easy to use. The Premier can automatically run daily, every other day, or every three days. We discovered running the Premier once every two days was efficient during most of the summer. But once Fall came around and a bunch of leaves fell into our pool, we found running it once daily was enough.
No pool robot is perfect. Yet. The only potential drawback to the Premier is the lack of an app. But what most people miss is the fact that robots with a smartphone app don’t have a way to set the timer on the power supply. Dolphin robots with apps have a simple one-button power supply, forcing you to open the app every time you want to schedule it for the week. This is a pain. Sometimes you simply want to hit a button. We’ve noticed that around 90% of buyers prefer the controls on the power supply when given the choice.
The Premier has a built-in programmable timer that allows you to set the weekly timer directly from the power supply. It also alerts you with Media-Alert when it is time to clean. You can even control the Premier manually via the optional remote control. While we have tested plenty of robots with an app, we don’t find the Premier to lack anything – rather it just delivers it without the hassle of opening your phone after every clean.
No. We get this question a lot. You cannot have too much power and performance in a robotic pool cleaner. If you have even a smaller pool, the Premier will do a fantastic job. The longer warranty when compared to the likes of other top choices is super nice to have.
However, if you’re on a tighter budget, we recommend the Dolphin Cayman. It has optional NanoFilter panels (Free for a limited time at Pool Express!), a Weekly Timer, and is the best value in Dolphin pool cleaners currently.
The Dolphin Premier not only promises but delivers exceptional cleaning performance. Its ability to handle a variety of debris, from leaves to algae, shows its superiority in the Dolphin lineup. The exclusive features of Multi-Media are well worth it, as it is the ultimate pool-cleaning machine. Designed for inground pools of all surfaces, the Premier adapts and excels in any pool, proving why it stands as the best overall Dolphin pool robot.
Read my review on the Dolphin Premier →
The Dolphin Sigma, with its advanced technology reminiscent of NASA Rovers, brings precision and intelligence to pool cleaning. Its design and features make it especially suited for large inground pools, where its ability to navigate and map the pool surface demonstrates its advanced capabilities.
The Sigma ushers in a new level from Dolphin. We discovered the cleaning ability to be in the top tier of Dolphin pool cleaners, alongside the Premier. While we ranked the Premier slightly higher, but only due to the lower price tag. The performance of the Sigma is next to none.
The Connect Anywhere power supply just has a simple on-and-off switch. But connect to Sigma’s app and you see a bunch of options you only get on the top Wi-Fi models. With options like voice control, we had a ton of fun starting the Sigma using “Hey Siri, Clean My Pool” a ton.
The app even has Advanced Weekly Timer functionality. That way you can set what day and time you want Sigma to run. Here, you can set Sigma to run at 8 am on Saturday and 5 pm on Tuesday. Forgot to start the Sigma? Simply open the app while at work and start the cleaning cycle from anywhere – it is super easy to use.
What makes the Sigma’s cleaning ability so great? By utilizing a Gyroscope, Dolphin D9 Microprocessor, and SmartNav 3.0, the Dolphin Sigma packs the newest technology into a high-powered cleaning machine. The tri-motor design allows its quad brushes to move independently. This way, the Sigma can pivot 360 degrees ensuring full pool coverage.
Just like the Premier, the Sigma includes 4 NanoFilter panels. This allows you to swap out the standard mesh filter to unlock the deeper clean that NanoFiltration provides. In our testing, we found that the Sigma was excellent at capturing large amounts of leaves and dirt with these filters equipped.
Easy to clean, all we had to do was open the top and rinse them out. We were impressed with the performance of the Sigma, thanks to the three commercial-grade motors.
The Sigma is expensive, but well worth it. If you want the convenience of an app and the ability to clean from anywhere, this is the robot for you. The increased filtration ability due to the NanoFilters allows the Sigma to clean deeper than the rest of the Dolphin lineup.
With more bells and whistles than the rest of the Dolphin lineup, the Dolphin Sigma stands out. The spotlight shines brightest on the Gyroscope and Triple Motor Design coupled with the Nanofiltration. It allowed the Sigma to get our test pool the clearest it has ever been. The true Connect Anywhere design is a nice touch, especially since it has more features in the app than base Wi-Fi models. Overall, we rank Sigma 10 out of 10.
Read my review on the Dolphin Sigma →
The Dolphin Cayman is a blend of value, performance, and innovation. As the top cleaner under $1000, it offers a suite of features typically reserved for higher-priced models, making it a standout choice for pool owners seeking efficiency and automation without the hefty price tag. It’s the most affordable Dolphin pool cleaner with a Weekly Timer. As Dolphin removed nearly all weekly timers out of similar models, such as the Dolphin Nautilus CC and Dolphin Explorer E20, the Dolphin Cayman stands alone in its class as the only robot with a weekly timer.
Let's delve into what makes the Dolphin Cayman a top contender for the title of best Dolphin pool cleaner and explore its performance and suitability for different pool types.
With a 40ft cord and the ability to automatically clean thanks to its weekly timer, the Cayman is perfectly suited for pools up to 33ft in length. This versatility makes it an ideal choice for both small inground and above ground pools. The Cayman easily wins as the best value cleaner for small pools and is the top choice for any pool under 30ft. Whether you own a gunite pool, Intex above ground pool or an Ecopool container pool, the Cayman should be at the top of your list.
I cannot stress enough how great this cleaner is. When compared to the likes of a Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus, we were blown away at just how much of a better value the Cayman is. While the Cayman is rising in popularity, a lot of people don’t realize how you get nearly the same feature set at a lower price.
We were impressed with the MaxBin compared to the standard filter cartridges. It was easier to clean as we just dropped the bottom and dumped the debris. From there, it was simple as rinsing the remaining leaves and dirt off. Its vacuuming power was quite impressive. While not as powerful as the ProLine, it would be more than suitable for small to medium-sized swimming pools.
What we really loved was the NanoFilter panels. While not included in the box, it is an optional accessory you can add (currently free at Pool Express!). This upgrade took the Cayman to a whole new level. After testing the Cayman for a few days with the standard filter, we noticed that it missed smaller particles just like other Dolphins would.
But once we upgraded the MaxBin and swapped the panels, the results were incredible. It picked up sand and small particles that otherwise would be left at the bottom of the pool. Not to mention, the water clarity improved significantly as well.
For those considering the Dolphin Cayman, now is the perfect time. For a limited time, Pool Express is offering free NanoFilters panels with the purchase of a Dolphin Cayman. Whether you buy new or shop our Certified Open Box and Certified Refurbished, you can enjoy the superior cleaning ability of these filters too.
In conclusion, the Dolphin Cayman's blend of innovative features, efficient performance, and exceptional value makes it a top pick for pool owners looking for a reliable, high-performing robotic pool cleaner without the premium price. Its suitability for both small inground and above ground pools makes it a top pick. You won’t find a better blend of performance and price within the Dolphin brand.
Read my review on the Dolphin Cayman →
A standout solution for above ground and small inground pools, the Dolphin Escape delivers an effective and affordable solution. Let’s dive deeper into the features and performance that set the Dolphin Escape apart as the best above ground pool cleaner.
The Dolphin Escape is designed with simplicity at its core but does not compromise on its effectiveness. The Escape was super easy to setup. In our experience, we had it up and ready to go in less than 3 minutes. Compared to pressure-side and suction-side cleaners we’ve hooked up in the past, not having to buy and set up an extra booster pump was a huge plus in our book.
Once powered on, the Dolphin Escape runs for 1.5 hours. During its cleaning cycle, it will scrub and vacuum your pool floor was ease. We loved the addition of the HyperBrush. Just like the Cayman and Quantum, the active scrubbing brush spins at twice the speed of the unit. This allows the Escape to tackle debris and algae with unmatched efficiency—a feature rarely found in other robotic pool cleaners.
What makes the Escape so great? A simple combination of user-friendly design, efficient cleaning performance, and smart navigation technology. Powered by SmartNav 2.0, the Escape will scan and map your pool – ensuring the best cleaning route is taken. Other robots deemed “above ground” or “flat pool only” robots will just simply bounce off the walls, but not the Escape.
The MaxBin, which captures more debris than standard cartridges, combined with the option to upgrade to NanoFilter panels, significantly enhances the Escape’s cleaning capabilities. These NanoFilters are a game-changer. Never have we seen a pool robot filter be so efficient.
Its dual DC motors provide powerful and efficient cleaning, superior to traditional pressure-side and suction-side cleaners. The Escape effectively vacuumed algae, leaves, and even pool toys from our test pool.
The Dolphin Escape represents a perfect blend of innovation, efficiency, and value within the Dolphin lineup. Design for above ground and small inground pools, the Escape has advanced features like the HyperBrush and SmartNav 2.0 that make it a great value. This led us to award the Dolphin Escape as the best Dolphin pool robot for above ground pools.
Read my review on the Dolphin Escape →
Combining the best of the ProLine and Max-Series, the Dolphin Quantum is a perfect pool cleaning solution. It's designed to combine efficiency, advanced filtration, and user-friendliness. And it couldn’t get any better.
The Quantum's standout features, such as the XXL MaxBin (which is larger than the standard MaxBin), NanoFilters, and HyperBrush, make it an exceptional choice for small to large inground pools. So why is it considered one of the best cleaners of the year?
The Quantum's performance is truly impressive, especially when it comes to dealing with large debris like leaves. Its XXL MaxBin, which is significantly larger than the cartridge filters found in other models, provides the largest filter basket we have ever seen. This feature alone sets the Quantum apart, offering a solution for pools that contend with lots of leaves and other large debris.
We love that the Quantum includes NanoFilters. It includes a set of 4 XXL panels that quickly can be snapped into the MaxBin. Once switched, we noticed that the Quantum captured smaller debris that otherwise got recirculated. But don’t worry, it also did a great job at still vacuuming the leaves in our test pool.
The inclusion of a weekly timer and an anti-tangle swivel cord exemplifies the Quantum's design philosophy, which prioritizes user convenience. The ability to set the robot to automatically clean the pool for days at a time direct from the power supply is amazing. While not everyone will need or want this feature, it is one I consider a necessity for medium to large pools as it allows full automation.
We found the Quantum to be one of our favorites. You save money when compared to the other ProLine models, while still getting all the essential standout features and ProLine cleaning ability. It is the perfect blend of value and cleaning performance. With more features like waterline cleaning and NanoFilters that you won’t find in other units, the Quantum stands out as a top Dolphin pool robot for 2024.
Read my review on the Dolphin Quantum →
We’ve tested nearly every cordless pool robot, and nothing comes close to the Dolphin Liberty 200.
The Dolphin Liberty 200 marks an innovative step towards battery-operated pool cleaner. Introduced in 2023 by Maytronics, the Liberty 200 has cutting-edge features like inductive charging.
If you want a cordless pool robot solution, it is important to note that the power and precision aren’t as good as similarly priced or cheaper cordless models. The Liberty 200 is certainly the best cordless option, but units such as the Quantum and Cayman outperformed the Liberty 200 in our testing – while offering better cleaning automation. But let’s dive into the Liberty 200 and what it comes with.
The transition to using the Dolphin Liberty 200 can require some adjustment, primarily due to its battery-operated nature. Recharging after every cleaning cycle, without the option for a quick battery swap, introduced a tedious task that we haven’t experienced with a robotic pool cleaner before. This interaction the one of the big tradeoffs compared to Liberty’s corded counterparts.
During the first few days it wasn’t terrible, the constant charging got old fast. After 2 weeks, it was hard to continue testing it as charging it for a few hours a day was a pain – especially after using the Dolphin Cayman that includes the weekly timer. The difference in batter and corded is not picked up by most people until they spend the first week going out to the pool to fetch the battery and charge it. Compare that hassle to letting the robot run every day on a timer and the choice is clear for most.
Despite the adjustments of constantly charging after every use, the Liberty 200 demonstrates a solid cleaning performance that we haven’t seen from other brands yet. It competes with models like the Dolphin Cayman in terms of cleaning efficiency, albeit with some limitations such as the absence of a timer and optional NanoFilters (plus the extra cost).
The Dolphin Liberty 200 shines in scenarios where a corded operation isn’t feasible. It is important to note we found that corded cleaners to not only be a better value but also better performing. Corded Dolphin robots have motors that are much more powerful than the cordless models. For pool owners that have access to an outlet nearby, you may want to look at alternatives within the Dolphin Max-Series.
The Dolphin Liberty 200 stands as a testament to Maytronics' commitment to innovation and user convenience in pool cleaning technology. While it sets a new standard for cordless pool robots, its optimal use case is specific to pool owners who prioritize the advantages of a battery-operated robot and don't mind the routine of regular recharging.
Determining the "best" Dolphin pool cleaner ultimately depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the unique characteristics of your pool. Maytronics' Dolphin line offers a wide range of models designed to cater to different pool sizes, types, and cleaning requirements.
But here is a quick guide for those trying to decide:
Dolphin Premier and Dolphin Sigma stand out for their incredible performance, advanced features, and versatility. If you want the ultimate pool cleaning solution at an incredible value, these models are worth the investment. With the longer 3-year warranty, they are well worth it. They are particularly suited for those who want a set-it-and-forget-it pool cleaning experience with exceptional results.
Dolphin Cayman offers an impressive blend of performance and features at a price point that’s hard to beat. It's the go-to choice for pool owners looking for a high-performing robot without the premium price tag. Its capability to handle various debris sizes and the optional NanoFilters make it a versatile choice for small to medium-sized pools. Not to mention, it’s the only Dolphin robot in this price range with a programmable weekly timer.
Dolphin Escape provides targeted efficiency for above ground and smaller inground pools. Its design focuses on simplicity and effectiveness, making it the best option for those who need reliable cleaning without the additional bells and whistles.
Dolphin Liberty 200 introduces the flexibility of a cordless design through battery technology. It's perfect for pool owners who don’t have access to an electrical outlet and those with small pools where a battery-operated model can perform somewhat efficiently.
Finding the right Dolphin pool robot can be a difficult choice. You’ll want to consider factors such as pool size, debris in your pool, and what features you want to prioritize. Here is a quick list to help you find the right Dolphin pool robot:
Pool Size and Type: Larger pools and those with complex shapes may benefit from more advanced models with powerful motors, anti-tangle swivels, and SmartNav navigation.
Debris Type: If your pool gathers a lot of leaves and larger debris, look for models with an oversized leaf bag such as the Dolphin Premier. If you struggle with lots of small debris, such as sand, algae, or dirt, look into a robot with NanoFilters.
Automation: App connectivity and a weekly timer are great for those who prefer a hands-off approach, as they allow the robotic pool cleaner to automatically start and clean your swimming pool.
Budget: Determine what you’re willing to spend. There's a Dolphin pool cleaner for most budgets, and investing in a higher-end model can offer long-term savings in terms of efficiency, durability, and cleaning performance.
In summary, the "best" Dolphin pool cleaner is the one that aligns with your specific needs, offering the right balance between performance, features, and price. Whether it's the high-end Premier and Sigma, the value-packed Cayman, the above-ground specialist Escape, or the cordless Liberty 200, the Dolphin lineup has the perfect pool robot for your pool.
As one of the longest-standing Authorized Dolphin Dealers, Pool Express has sold robotic pool cleaners for nearly 15 years. With many thousands of happy customers, every Dolphin pool robot sold at Pool Express includes a full manufacturer warranty, a risk-free 30-day trial, and no restocking fee ever.
My colleagues and I are on standby to help you choose the perfect robotic pool cleaner. With hands on experience, we can help find and provide insight on a Dolphin robotic pool cleaner. With a risk-free 30-day trial, no restocking fee, and a full 2–3 year warranty on all Dolphin robotic pool cleaners, find the right robot for you. Pool Express has been a proud Authorized Dolphin dealer for over 10 years! Shop one of the largest online selections of Dolphin pool robots with all the top 2024 models.
