Our pick: Dolphin Quantum
Dolphin Quantum is the Pool Express pick in this matchup. Dolphin Quantum uses the high-capacity XXL MaxBin for easier top-load debris handling. Dolphin Quantum includes filtration for sand, pollen and other fine debris.
Proteus
Dolphin Proteus DX5i
Inground pools up to 50 ft that need floor, wall and waterline cleaning.
ProLine
Dolphin Quantum
Inground pools up to 50 ft that need floor, wall and waterline cleaning, with fine debris.
Why Dolphin Quantum is our pick
Dolphin Quantum
Inground pools up to 50 ft that need floor, wall and waterline cleaning, with fine debris.
$1,649
Buy Dolphin QuantumDolphin Proteus DX5i or Dolphin Quantum: our take
Dolphin Proteus DX5i and Dolphin Quantum are compared on pool fit, cleaning reach, debris handling, controls and ownership details. The recommendation is based on the job the robot must do—not a simple feature count.
Pool fit and cleaning reach
Both robots are intended for inground pools. Both are rated for pools up to 50 ft. Each cleans floor, walls, and waterline, so coverage alone does not separate them. Dolphin Proteus DX5i lists 1 active brush. Dolphin Quantum lists 2 active brushes, SmartNav 2.0 navigation, and Dual DC motors.
Filtration and debris
Dolphin Proteus DX5i includes Basket; Dolphin Quantum includes XXL MaxBin and NanoFilters. Dolphin Quantum has the clearer documented edge for fine silt, pollen and sand.
Controls and day-to-day ownership
Dolphin Proteus DX5i provides smartphone control; Dolphin Quantum provides a weekly timer, smartphone control, and included remote control. Both use a 60 ft corded cable with an anti-tangle swivel.
Price, warranty and the decision
Dolphin Proteus DX5i is listed at $1,299 and Dolphin Quantum at $1,649; Dolphin Proteus DX5i is $350 less. Each lists a 2-year manufacturer warranty. Pool Express pick: Dolphin Quantum. Dolphin Quantum uses the high-capacity XXL MaxBin for easier top-load debris handling. Dolphin Quantum includes filtration for sand, pollen and other fine debris. Choose Dolphin Proteus DX5i when it is the better fit for shoppers prioritizing the lower $1,299 starting price.
Feature check: what each robot actually has
A green check means the feature is documented as included. A red X means it is documented as absent. A dash means the source does not make the feature clear.
| Feature | Dolphin Proteus DX5i | Dolphin Quantum |
|---|---|---|
| Cleans the pool floor | Yes | Yes |
| Climbs and cleans walls | Yes | Yes |
| Scrubs the waterline | Yes | Yes |
| Fine-debris filter included | No | YesEdge |
| Large-debris filter | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic scheduling | Not listed | Yes |
| Smartphone app | Yes | Yes |
| Anti-tangle swivel | Yes | Yes |
| 3-year warranty | No | No |
| No recharging between cycles | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in UV-C water treatment | No | No |
Unknown is not treated as “no.” Specifications come from the product pages, current catalog records and manufacturer material collected for this site.
Where Dolphin Proteus DX5i stands out
Dolphin Proteus DX5i is the better fit for shoppers prioritizing the lower $1,299 starting price.
- Is listed $350 lower
- Top-load filter basket
Where Dolphin Quantum stands out
Dolphin Quantum is the better fit for inground pools up to 50 ft that need floor, wall and waterline cleaning, with fine debris.
- Uses the high-capacity XXL MaxBin for easier top-load debris handling
- Includes filtration for sand, pollen and other fine debris
- Uses 2 active brushes instead of 1
Dolphin Proteus DX5i vs Dolphin Quantum specifications
Use pool fit first. Price and app control do not make up for a robot that cannot cover the length or surfaces you need cleaned.
| Specification | Dolphin Proteus DX5i | Dolphin Quantum |
|---|---|---|
| Best fit | Inground pools up to 50 ft that need floor, wall and waterline cleaning. | Inground pools up to 50 ft that need floor, wall and waterline cleaning, with fine debris. |
| Starting price | $1,299 | $1,649 |
| Pool type | Inground | Inground |
| Maximum pool length | Up to 50 ft | Up to 50 ft |
| Cleaning coverage | Floor, Walls, Waterline | Floor, Walls, Waterline |
| Power | Corded | Corded |
| Filtration | Basket | XXL MaxBin, NanoFilters |
| Scheduling | Not listed | Weekly schedule + app |
| App and remote | App control | App + included remote |
| Cable | 60 ft with anti-tangle swivel | 60 ft with anti-tangle swivel |
| Robot weight | Not listed | 18.3 lb |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
Choose Dolphin Quantum
Dolphin Quantum is the Pool Express pick in this matchup. Dolphin Quantum uses the high-capacity XXL MaxBin for easier top-load debris handling. Dolphin Quantum includes filtration for sand, pollen and other fine debris.
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