Aiper vs. Dolphin Comparison Review

Aiper vs DolphinAiper vs. Dolphin, which is the best robotic pool cleaner brand? If you are in this dilemma, this is the place to be. We have explored the two brands, assessing their best-selling robotic pool cleaners and how they stack up against each other.

Aiper is an American pool cleaner brand that started in 2017. The company specializes in cordless robotic pool cleaners. On the other hand, Dolphin is a renowned brand that has been in business for over 3 decades, manufacturing a wide range of pool cleaners, including robotic models. The two brands are known for their reliable cleaners, ensuring your pool always remains clean. However, there are some noteworthy differences.

The main difference between Aiper and Dolphin is the type of robotic cleaners they produce. Aiper is known for cordless robotic pool cleaners, while Dolphin manufactures corded pool cleaners. Of course, there are other nitty-gritty differences between the models of the two brands.

For more regarding how the two brands compare, read along.

Aiper vs. Dolphin Comparison Review

To the day’s main business, how does Aiper compare to Dolphin? Can this new brand match the years of experience of Maytronics, Dolphin’s mother company? Well, let’s find out.

Why Aiper?

Aiper logo

Aiper may not be a common name in the pool cleaners market because it’s a fairly new brand. However, the company’s unique idea of producing cordless robotic pool cleaners has put it at the helm now that many pool owners can’t resist the convenience and usability of cordless pool cleaners.

So, what’s the deal with cordless robotic pool cleaners?

The advantage of cordless robotic pool cleaners is the elimination of any tangling chances, something common with corded robotic pool cleaners. Besides, cordless pool cleaners don’t limit where the robot can reach.

However, with cordless cleaners, your cleaning time is limited. You also have to remove the battery and recharge it manually.

Best Aiper Robotic Pool Cleaners

Over the years, Aiper has been at the forefront of the production of cordless robotic pool cleaners. Today, the company boasts several models, with the AIPER Seagull SE 2023, Super SE, and AIPER Seagull 1000, as the bestsellers. Here’s how the 3 models compare.

(2023 Upgrade) AIPER Seagull SE...
AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool...
AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool...
Dimensions
17 x 15 x 11 inches
14.3 x 15.1 x 7.5 inches
17.13 x 13.74 x 7.8 inches
Weight
15.27 lbs
6.6 lbs
6.6 lbs
Power Source
5,000mAh rechargeable battery
5,000mAh rechargeable battery
5,000mAh rechargeable battery
Runtime
90 Minutes
90 Minutes
90 Minutes
Pool Type
Inground / Above-ground Pools
Inground / Above-ground Pools
Inground / Above-ground Pools
For Pools Up To
861 sq. ft.
850 sq. ft.
850 sq. ft.
Cleaning Cycle
2 hours
2 hours
2 hours
Coverage
Floor Only
Floor Only
Floor Only
LED lights
Chemical Dispenser
(2023 Upgrade) AIPER Seagull SE...
Dimensions
17 x 15 x 11 inches
Weight
15.27 lbs
Power Source
5,000mAh rechargeable battery
Runtime
90 Minutes
Pool Type
Inground / Above-ground Pools
For Pools Up To
861 sq. ft.
Cleaning Cycle
2 hours
Coverage
Floor Only
LED lights
Chemical Dispenser
AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool...
Dimensions
14.3 x 15.1 x 7.5 inches
Weight
6.6 lbs
Power Source
5,000mAh rechargeable battery
Runtime
90 Minutes
Pool Type
Inground / Above-ground Pools
For Pools Up To
850 sq. ft.
Cleaning Cycle
2 hours
Coverage
Floor Only
LED lights
Chemical Dispenser
AIPER Cordless Robotic Pool...
Dimensions
17.13 x 13.74 x 7.8 inches
Weight
6.6 lbs
Power Source
5,000mAh rechargeable battery
Runtime
90 Minutes
Pool Type
Inground / Above-ground Pools
For Pools Up To
850 sq. ft.
Cleaning Cycle
2 hours
Coverage
Floor Only
LED lights
Chemical Dispenser

Last update on 2023-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

AIPER Seagull 1000

The Aiper 1000 is a compact, lightweight, cordless robotic pool cleaner for inground and above-ground pools. The cordless design means you don’t have to deal with cables and tangles. Under the hood, the robot packs a 5,000mAh battery that offers up to 90 minutes of runtime. This is enough to handle pools of up to 861 Sq Ft.

When it comes to cleaning performance, the Seagull 1000 is what you need to keep your pool clean always. It boasts powerful suction and 2 wider nozzles that pick up all kinds of debris, from fine sand and silt to leaves and cones.

As a robotic pool cleaner, the Seagull 1000 deploys a dual-drive system for propulsion. Movement is based on Touch Wall, where the pool cleaner touches the wall and reverses alongside 4 wheels.

For the record, the Seagull 1000 can clean pool floors and inclines up to 15 degrees.

In terms of convenience, this robotic pool cleaner is worth every penny. It operates autonomously and has several convenience features, including Self-parking Technology, and Low Battery Detection. The former comes in handy when the robot needs to recharge or has completed the cleaning task. It docks at a specific spot. On the other hand, Low Battery Detection notifies you when it’s time to get some juice.

Check out the best Aiper Seagull 1000 discounts today.

AIPER Seagull 600

The Seagull SE is the second release from this pool cleaner brand. It is also a robotic pool cleaner that offers a cordless pool cleaning experience. It features the same 5000mAh rechargeable battery that the Seagull 1000 comes with and can power the cleaner for a cool 90 minutes, which is enough runtime to clean pools of up to 850 sq. ft.

In terms of cleaning performance, it is also reliable. It has been designed to capture all kinds of debris, be it sand, pebbles, insects, leaves, or cones. It packs excellent suction and has dual nozzles for efficiency.

Regarding navigation and maneuverability, the Seagull SE is exclusively for flat pools. This is because it has smaller wheels compared to the Seagull 1000. But all the same, it is intelligent enough to cover every spot in your pool.

On convenience features, this cleaner maintains Self-parking Technology and Low Battery Detection technology. The new features are the LED lights and chemical dispenser. The Seagull SE is the true companion you want to keep your pool water sparkling clean.

While on a typical day, it is expensive, plenty of Aiper Seagull SE deals and discounts are rolled out from time to time.

AIPER Seagull SE 2023

At CES 2023, Aiper teased the new Aiper Seagull SE 2023. This was alongside the Aiper Seagull Plus and Seagull Pro. However, there is nothing new with this model. It is also a cordless robotic pool cleaner, so you don’t have to deal with tangles and kinks.

The 2023 Seagull SE also comes with a 5,000mAh battery that offers up to 90 minutes of runtime. This is enough power to clean an 850 sq. ft. pool. The cleaning performance is similar to the original Seagull SE as it boasts the same suction power and dual nozzle. The robot can pick up all kinds of debris, from small debris, such as fine sand and silt, to large debris, including leaves and small cones.

When it comes to navigation and convenience, the Seagull SE 2023 still uses a dual-drive system for propulsion which is complemented by the HydroDynamic design.

Check out the latest Seagull SE 2023 discounts that you can snap today.

Why Dolphin?

dolphin logo

Dolphin is one of the oldest pool cleaner brands, having been founded in 1983. The company is known for high-quality pool cleaners. Unlike Aiper, which specializes only in compact cordless robotic pool cleaners, Dolphin has compact and full-size corded pool cleaners.

So, what’s the deal with Dolphin robotic pool cleaners?

Dolphin robotic pool cleaners are corded, so you have to plug them into the mains. The advantage of corded pool cleaners is that they don’t limit your cleaning time. You can clean the pool for as long as you want. Besides, there are no frequent maintenance requirements, for example, charging the battery.

But like two sides of the same coin, Dolphin pool cleaners have a shortcoming. You will have to deal with the cable, but thanks to swivel technology, you don’t have to worry about kinks and tangles.

Best Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaners

Dolphin has a wide range of robotic pool cleaners, from compact models to full-size cleaners that can take on any pool. For this review, we will go for the compact models that match Aipers: Dolphin E10, Dolphin Proteus DX3, and Dolphin Nautilus CC. So, how do they compare.

Dolphin E10 Robotic Pool Vacuum...
Dolphin Proteus DX3 Robotic Pool...
Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool...
Dimensions
22 x 17.5 x 13 inches
22 x 18 x 13 inches
16.38 x 16.77 x 8.97 inches
Weight
13.8 lbs
13.8 lbs
14 lbs
Power Source
Corded
Corded
Corded
Cord
40 ft., No Swivel
50 ft., No Swivel
50 ft., No Swivel
For Pools Up To
30 Feet
33 Feet
33 Feet
Coverage
Floor Only
Floor and Walls
Floor and Walls
Cleaning Cycle Time
1.5 hours
2 hours
2 hours
Weekly Scheduler
Maneuvering
Tracks
Tracks
Tracks
Dolphin E10 Robotic Pool Vacuum...
Dimensions
22 x 17.5 x 13 inches
Weight
13.8 lbs
Power Source
Corded
Cord
40 ft., No Swivel
For Pools Up To
30 Feet
Coverage
Floor Only
Cleaning Cycle Time
1.5 hours
Weekly Scheduler
Maneuvering
Tracks
Dolphin Proteus DX3 Robotic Pool...
Dimensions
22 x 18 x 13 inches
Weight
13.8 lbs
Power Source
Corded
Cord
50 ft., No Swivel
For Pools Up To
33 Feet
Coverage
Floor and Walls
Cleaning Cycle Time
2 hours
Weekly Scheduler
Maneuvering
Tracks
Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool...
Dimensions
16.38 x 16.77 x 8.97 inches
Weight
14 lbs
Power Source
Corded
Cord
50 ft., No Swivel
For Pools Up To
33 Feet
Coverage
Floor and Walls
Cleaning Cycle Time
2 hours
Weekly Scheduler
Maneuvering
Tracks

Last update on 2023-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Dolphin E10

The Dolphin E10 is a reliable robot vacuum for above-ground pools of up to 30ft. Like all Dolphins, this is a corded model featuring a 40 ft power cord, but unfortunately, it is not a swivel cord, so expect it to tangle often. But the good thing is you are not limited when it comes to cleaning time as you can clean the entire day without disruptions like Aipers, which require recharging after 90 minutes.

In terms of cleaning performance, Dolphin E10 is superb. It can clean the floor only, but exceptionally, courtesy of its high 4000 GPH suction power and large top load filter that captures both small and large debris. The single-front high-speed scrubber agitates and eliminates all stains and grime, including algae. The E10 has a single standard cleaning cycle that gets the job done in 1.5 hours.

When it comes to locomotion, the E10 has a powerful drive system that relies on robust energy-efficient motors. As for maneuvering, it relies on wheels with tracks that give the robot the required grip and agility.

Think it’s a worthy purchase? Check out the latest Dolphin E10 deals and discounts.

Dolphin Proteus DX3

Another top-of-the-range Dolphin pool cleaner is the Proteus DX3. This is also a corded pool cleaner with a 50ft power cord that allows it to handle inground and above-ground pools of up to 33ft. The fact that it is corded means you can clean the pool for as long as you want, and the maintenance requirements are minimal. Unfortunately, this is not a swivel cable.

Regarding cleaning performance, we like the fact that it doesn’t clean just the floor but the walls too. It boasts 4000 GPH suction, a single front high-speed scrubber, and a top load filter to capture small and large debris. The DX3 has a single cleaning cycle, 2 hours.

Regarding navigation, it also relies on a robust drive system for propulsion and a clever design that allows water to be expelled naturally, preventing drag. The tracks give the robot the agility it requires to climb the walls. The DX3 is intelligent enough to notice obstacles and will rarely get trapped. You can also take advantage of the Weekly Scheduler to program the robot to clean at specific times.

Even though it retails at a high price on normal days, you can take advantage of the current Dolphin Proteus DX3 discount and forget about manual pool cleaning.

Dolphin Nautilus CC

The Nautilus CC is another highly-rated robot pool cleaner for above and inground pools. It is also corded and tags along with a 50ft cord that allows it to clean pools of up to 33ft. But it also lacks swivel technology. If you want a model with tangle-free technology, check out the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus.

As for cleaning, the Nautilus CC is also designed for inground and above-ground pools of any shape or material. It relies on super suction, a single front high-speed scrubber, and a single click basket filter to capture all kinds of debris. There is also a Weekly Scheduler, so you can set it and forget. The cleaning cycle is 2 hours.

Regarding movement, the Nautilus CC has a robust navigation system that enables the robot to cover every inch of your pool. It also maintains tracks, giving it the agility to clean floors and walls.

If you want the best cleaning performance, check out the latest Nautilus CC deals and discounts.

Aiper vs. Dolphin: A Side-By-Side Comparison

In this segment, we have compared the two brands based on the essential factors considered when buying pool cleaners. So, without further ado, let’s get into it.

1. Type

There are different types of robotic pool cleaners. In the first categorization, we have inground and above-ground pool cleaners. Some are specifically for inground pool cleaners or above-ground, while others have the versatility to work on both pool types. Besides, there are cordless pool cleaners and corded cleaners. The cordless models rely on rechargeable batteries, while corded models have power cords that connect to the mains. So, what robotic pool cleaners do the two brands have to offer?

Aiper type

Aiper doesn’t give you many options as the brand has just a few cleaners, four, at the time of writing. The four are compact robotic pool cleaners suitable for inground and above-ground pools. While they work best in above-ground pools, they lack the power to handle large inground pools.

Regarding the power source, all the Aiper pool cleaners are cordless. They have inbuilt batteries that offer up to 90 minutes of runtime and take 2.5 hours to recharge though the Seagull 1000 takes up to 6 hours.

If you don’t want to be inconvenienced by hose wraps, tangles, and kinks, get an Aiper pool vacuum. But know that you are limited to 90 minutes of operation on a single charge.

Dolphin type

On the other hand, Dolphin is a top brand that boasts a wide range of pool cleaners. So whether you want a compact pool cleaner for your above-ground pool or a full-size robotic pool cleaner for an Olympic-size pool, Maytronics has got you covered.

Regarding power source, Dolphin manufactures corded robotic pool cleaners that offer unlimited runtime so you can clean for as long as you want. Unfortunately, some models, such as the Dolphin E10, Dolphin Proteus DX3, and Nautilus CC, lack swivel technology, so you will have to deal with the tangles and wraps.

But there are advanced models, including the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus, Dolphin Triton PS, and Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme, which come with tangle-free cords.

2. Build Quality

Another important consideration when looking for the best robotic pool cleaner is the build quality. Now that the robot will be spending much of its time outdoors, you want to go for a model that can withstand harsh conditions. Also, check aspects such as weight, dimensions, and assembly. You want a cleaner with a small footprint and lightweight design. In addition to design, go for a model that is easy to assemble, preferably a pre-assembled model.

Aiper boasts a range of robust robotic pool cleaners built to last. They can withstand the scorching summer heat and pool chemicals.

When it comes to size, all the Aiper pool cleaners have a compact design and small footprint. Dropping and lifting it from the water is pretty easy. One great thing is that Aiper cleaners come in a Plug’n Play design meaning no assembly is required.

Maytronics, too, has a great choice of materials. All the Dolphin models have been made from premium plastic that can withstand harsh conditions, for example, the sun and pool chemicals.

As for assembly, Dolphin is also an excellent choice as it comes assembled, so you just have to plug the unit and drop it in the pool.

3. Cleaning Performance

The cleaning performance is the most vital consideration when looking for the best robotic pool cleaner. Here, there are several aspects to consider. First, where does the robot clean? Is it the pool floor only, or can it reach the walls and waterline? Next, find out the cleaning power, and here, you need to assess several aspects, including the suction power, scrubbing system, and, notably, the cleaning cycle. So, how does Aiper compare to Dolphin in terms of cleaning performance?

Aiper cleaning performance

One of the shortcomings of the Aiper pool vacuums is that they clean the pool floor only and perhaps the slopes. They have not been designed to handle walls and the waterline. So, if you have an inground pool, you might want to think twice.

For efficient cleaning, Aiper cleaners boast excellent suction and elaborate scrubbing brushes that eliminate all stains and grime. The filters can capture small to medium-sized debris and have a top-load design making maintenance easy.

As for the cleaning cycle, Aiper robotic pool cleaners can get the job done in 2 hours.

Dolphin cleaning performance

One advantage of Dolphin is its versatility in terms of cleaning performance. Unlike the Aipers that clean floors only, some Dolphin models, for example, the Dolphin Proteus DX3 and Dolphin Nautilus CC, can clean floors and walls. Advanced models like Dolphin Triton PS, Dolphin Triton PS Plus, and Dolphin Nautilus CC Supreme can clean the floor, walls, and the waterline.

The suction, too, is excellent, with the models in this review putting up a cool 4000 GPH and combining tough scrubbers that leave no stains or dirt behind. The filters are also large enough and capture small, medium-sized, and large debris, from sand to leaves.

The cleaning cycle varies, with some models having a 1.5 hours cycle while others have 2 hours. Advanced models even come with enhanced cleaning cycles so you can decide how long you want the robot to clean.

4. Navigation and Maneuvering

Now that we are comparing robotic pool cleaners, one vital question is how these robots find their way around your pool. How do they avoid obstacles and ensure that no spot is missed? This is what this segment is all about. The maneuverability of a robotic pool cleaner is just as crucial as the navigation system. Maneuverability can be the deal maker or breaker. It can be why your robot gets stuck and can’t climb walls or is agile enough to reach all spots and go over large debris.

Aiper navigation

Aiper pool cleaners have been designed to find their way around the pool and avoid obstacles. They also map your pool and plan for systematic cleaning patterns to ensure entire-level cleaning. However, on irregularly shaped pools, they miss some spots.

Regarding maneuverability, some models have large wheels while others have small casters. The Seagull 1000 has large wheels that can power through some large obstacles while the Seagull SE models have small wheels. Unfortunately, no Aiper pool vacuum has tracks.

Dolphin Navigation

Dolphin excels when it comes to navigation. The brand has delved into innovation, engineering robust navigation systems that give Dolphin vacuums humanlike intelligence.

They guarantee entire-level cleaning, ensuring no spot is missed. As for maneuvering, we are glad Dolphin cleaners come with tracks that offer better traction and wall climbing.

5. Automation

The main advantage of robotic pool cleaners is the convenience of autonomous operation. The best models go further to bring on board extra convenience features such as automation which allow users to program the cleaner to work at specific times. This way, you can save a lot of time that you can dedicate to other cleaning chores or spend more time in the pool. In this section, check out the automaton features that the two brands offer.

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One of the shortcomings of Aiper is that the cleaners are not endowed in terms of automation. The three models in this review lack any form of automation.

You can’t program the cleaners to get to work at specific times. Instead, you will have to prompt the cleaner to get to work manually.

Dolphin Weekly Scheduler

On the other hand, Dolphin is an innovative brand geared towards making pool cleaning a buzz. The entry-level models, for example, the Dolphin E10, lack any automation features. However, from the Proteus DX3 going upwards, there is a Weekly Scheduler.

This feature lets you program the robot to clean at specific times of the day throughout the week. With the Weekly Scheduler, you can forget about pool cleaning and concentrate on swimming.

6. Warranty and Aftersales

We also considered the warranty the two brands offer customers. Obviously, you want a brand that has a lengthy warranty. And it’s not just about the warranty length; the warranty’s credibility matters. Another aspect to consider is after-sales. Here, the focus is on support and availability of parts and supplies.

A 1-year warranty covers Aiper vacuums, so if it breaks down during the first year of purchase, you are eligible for repairs or replacement. Unlike most brands out there, Aiper does honor its warranty.

Regarding support, the team at Aiper is resourceful, responds to consumers’ queries, and offers help where necessary. Replacement parts, and supplies, are readily available at all major retailers, including Amazon.

Dolphin pool cleaners also come with a warranty just in case they break down or malfunction. But unlike Aipers, which come with a 1-year warranty, a 2-year warranty covers Dolphin pool cleaners.

The brand’s warranty is credible, but check the terms and conditions to avoid voiding the warranty. Support, too, is available, and so are replacement parts and supplies.

7. Cost Considerations

The last aspect to consider is the costs. You want to know which brand is more affordable and which costs an arm and a leg. The point is not to go for a cheap brand but to get value for money. So, who’s the winner here?

Aiper pool cleaners are relatively cheaper compared to Dolphins. The prices range between $200 and $500. Interestingly, the brand and retailers, such as Amazon, offer deals and discounts from time to time.
On the other hand, Dolphin pool cleaners are quite expensive. For example, the E10 costs around $500. But like Aiper, Maytronics, and retailers, including Amazon, offer periodic discounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the Aiper pool cleaner take to charge?

The recharge time of Aiper pool cleaners varies depending on the model. The older batteries take around 5-6 hours to recharge. However, we now have redesigned batteries that take 2 to 2.5 hours to recharge.

2. How long do Dolphin pool cleaners last?

Dolphin pool cleaners have been built to last. On average, they last for 3-5 years. However, the durability solely depends on how you maintain them and, importantly, how often you use them.

3. How much electricity does a dolphin pool cleaner use?

Dolphin pool cleaners are energy efficient, courtesy of optimized motors that consume 87% less energy than other pool cleaners. Most models use less than 100 kWh per year on average.

4. How does the Aiper pool vacuum work?

Aiper pool cleaners come with rechargeable batteries and pack sophisticated navigation and maneuvering systems that enable the robot to move around your pool while collecting dirt and debris.

5. What’s the difference between Aiper and Dolphin pool cleaners?

While there are many differences between Dolphin and Aiper pool cleaners, the main difference is the power source. Dolphin pool cleaners are corded, while Aiper pool cleaners are cordless.

Conclusion

That’s it, folks, an Aiper vs. Dolphin comparison review. As you have seen, the main difference between the two is that Aiper has cordless robotic pool cleaners while Dolphin focuses on corded pool cleaners. So, what’s the best option? Well, as far as the power source is concerned, it depends on preference. Aiper pool cleaners are convenient as they are cordless, but they limit working time. On the other hand, Dolphin cleaners offer unlimited cleaning time, but you have to deal with cables and tangles. But all said and done, Dolphin pool cleaners are the best as they offer better cleaning and allow for automation.

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