Dolphin Cayman vs. Escape is among the many debates on swimming pool forums. Some say that Cayman is the best, while others insist that Escape is the ultimate above-ground pool cleaner. To end the debate, we have compared the two, stripping down their core features to find out which one should be on top of your wishlist.
There’s no doubt Dolphin is among the best pool cleaner brands. The company boasts a wide range of cleaners for both in-ground and above-ground pools. The Dolphin Cayman and Dolphin Escape are the best sellers in the above-ground pool cleaners category.
The two share quite a lot in common, but some profound differences should be the basis of your selection.
importantDolphin Cayman and Escape differ in dimensions, weight, cleaning cycle, automation, and cable length. Dolphin Cayman is negligibly heavier, has a longer cleaning cycle, allows for automation, and has a longer cable meaning it can clean a bigger pool. On the other hand, the Dolphin Escape is slightly lighter, has a shorter cleaning cycle, lacks any automation features, and has a shorter cable. Of course, it is cheaper than Cayman.
For more regarding how they stack up against each other, read along.
Dolphin Cayman vs. Escape Comparison table
Dolphin Cayman Pros
- It can be used for both above-ground and inground pools
- Boasts a Plug’n Play design, so no assembly is required
- Offers excellent cleaning as it captures both small and large debris
- Features a Weekly Timer feature for automation
- Boasts energy efficient motors for reduced operation costs
- Has a longer cord so it can clean a larger pool
Dolphin Cayman Cons
- Slightly more expensive than the Dolphin Escape
Dolphin Escape Pros
- It is suitable for both above-ground and inground pools
- It comes in a Plug’n Play Design, so no assembly is needed
- Excellent cleaning as it captures both small and large debris
- Engineered with energy-efficient motors
Dolphin Escape Cons
- Doesn’t come with any automation features
- It has a shorter cord limiting its use to pools of up to 30ft
Dolphin Cayman vs. Escape Face-to-Face Comparison
To the main business of the day, how does Dolphin Cayman compare to Dolphin Escape? Which is the best above-ground pool? To ensure you make the right decision, we will compare them in a 10-round bout assessing the important aspects considered when buying pool cleaners. So without further ado, let’s get into it.
1. Design, Dimensions, and Aesthetics
There are several aspects to consider in this first round. First, how is the build quality of the pool cleaner? Can it withstand the harsh summer heat in the pool or on the deck? Another thing, how is the aesthetics? Will it be appealing while at the pool?
Last, find out the dimensions and weight of the two pool cleaners. You definitely want to get a compact pool cleaner for easy portability and storage without compromising cleaning power.
The Dolphin Cayman is a sleek, compact, lightweight robotic pool cleaner. It boasts a sturdy build that withstands all weather conditions, especially the scorching summer sun on the deck. This is courtesy of Maytronics’ choice of material, premium plastic. The finish is a blend of gray, blue, and black. When it comes to the dimensions, the Cayman measures 22.2×17.6×12.8 inches. The small profile makes storing the cleaner in tight spaces during winter easy.
As for the weight, the Dolphin Cayman is just 14.7 lbs, one of the lightest above-ground robot pool cleaners we have come by. As a matter of fact, it is 30% lighter than other robotic pool cleaners. So lifting it from point A to B shouldn’t be a hurdle.
Dolphin Escape is just as appealing aesthetically as Dolphin Cayman. It also boasts a robust build with high-grade plastic material. As a result, the Escape can take all the abuse in any weather condition and remain intact.
The color scheme is similar to the Cayman’s; black, gray, and blue. Regarding dimensions, the Dolphin Escape also has a small footprint, so storage space shouldn’t be a worry. It measures 22.2×17.6×12.8 inches. Regarding weight, it’s negligibly lighter at 14.2 lbs.
2. Assembly and Usability
Robotic pool cleaners have many components, from motors, electrical components, tracks, power supply units, cables, etc. That said, you need to think of the assembly, especially if you are not a handy guy. In this segment, we will look at the assembly and setup procedure of the two. In addition, we want to find out about their usability. Which of the two Dolphin cleaners is user-friendly?
While many brands ship their pool cleaners in parts, Maytronics has a fantastic plan that makes it easy for any swimming enthusiast to get started with their pool cleaner. The Cayman comes in a Plug’n Play design, so you don’t have to worry about assembly. You just have to set the power supply at least 10 ft away, connect the cleaner to the mains, drop it in the water, sit back, and relax.
The advantage of robotic pool cleaners is that they run off your pool pump or any other installation, so there’s less to do when getting started. As for usability, it is excellent. The controls are on the power unit and are pretty straightforward. We also like the fact that Maytronics included a swivel cord, so you won’t have to struggle with the kinks and tangles.
As far as assembly and usability are concerned, Dolphin Escape shares a lot with the Cayman. It also boasts a Plug’n Play design, so you won’t struggle with long assembly steps before using your cleaner. Just plug it into the mains and drop it in the water; it will do all the hard lifting for you.
Like the Cayman, it runs autonomously without relying on other pool installations, such as the pool pump. This further cuts down assembly and setup requirements.
As for usability, it is also user-friendly, with easy controls on the power supply unit. The Escape also comes with a tangle-free cord.
3. Cleaning Orientation
In this third round of this Cayman vs. Escape comparison review, we will look at a fundamental factor, cleaning orientation. The first question is, what type of pool cleaners are the two? Remember, we have in-ground and above-ground pool cleaners. None is a substitute for the other, so make sure you buy the right cleaner for the right pool. Next, we will assess the size and shape of the pool they have been designed for. As you may be aware, there are large and small pools, and the pool shapes are also different.
The Maytronics Cayman is an above-ground pool cleaner…you can tell from its compact size. But there’s no harm in using an above-ground pool cleaner in an inground pool as long as it can sink in the water and the pool is not so large.
When it comes to the pool material, the Cayman is versatile. It can clean steel, aluminum, and resin above-ground pools, and all other inground pool surfaces. When it comes to the pool’s shape, it is an all-rounder, so whether you have a round-shaped pool, rectangular, prism, or any other shape, it will get the job done. As for the pool size, Cayman has a 50 ft power cord that allows it to work effectively on a 33ft pool.
Maytronics Escape is also an above-ground pool cleaner, but using it to clean an inground pool is no issue. But remember, it must be completely submerged, and the pool should be relatively small.
As for the pool surfaces, it can clean, Dolphin Escape handles all above-ground pool materials, from steel and aluminum to resin.
As for inground pools, whether you have fiberglass, concrete, vinyl, or liner. Regarding pool shapes, the Escape is not choosy. You can use it on rectangular pools, round pools, prism pools, kidneys, oval pools, etc. Last on pool size, the Escape has a shorter 40 ft power cord, which makes it suitable for pools up to 30ft.
4. Cleaning Performance
One of the most crucial segments of this comparison review is the cleaning performance of the two Dolphins. One of the features we will be looking at is where the robot can clean. Some cleaners are meant for pool floors only, pool floors and walls only, or pool floors, walls, and the waterline.
Another question to ask is the suction rate of the duo, the kind of scrubbers used, and their cleaning cycles.
While the Dolphin Cayman can be used to clean inground pools, there’s a catch. You see, it has been engineered to clean the pool floor and walls only. It can’t clean up to the waterline like the Dolphin E50 or E70, two of the best inground pool cleaners out there. When it comes to suction rate, the Cayman has enough power to handle some of the biggest above-ground pool cleaners. It can do a whopping 4,000 GPH.
Now, onto the real cleaning and scrubbing; Maytronics equipped the Cayman with HyperBrush, a scrubbing technology that leverages a brush system that spins twice as fast as the brush in typical robotic pool cleaners. The result is superior scrubbing that eliminates algae blooms and other stains. Last, on cleaning cycles, Cayman doesn’t have enhanced cleaning cycles like the E50 and E70. Instead, it jas a default cycle that cleans the pool in 2 hours.
Dolphin Escape, like the Cayman, has a major flaw if you plan to use it in an inground pool. It just cleans the pool’s floor and walls. There’s no waterline cleaning. As for the suction rate, it is precisely the same as Cayman, as it also puts up 4000 GPH when firing on all cylinders. The brush system is also the same. It has been designed to tackle tough organic or inorganic stains.
Also worth mentioning is that they are gentle, so if you have a resin above-ground pool, you don’t have to worry. When it comes to cleaning cycles, the Escape has the upper hand. While it has a single cleaning cycle, completing the job takes around 1.5 hours. But remember, this cleaner is meant for up to 30ft pools, while the Cayman can handle a pool of up to 33ft.
5. Filtration
Pool cleaners work by capturing all kinds of data in the pool. That said, assessing the filtration system that captures this dirt and debris is essential. Here, the first thing to assess is the kind of debris that the filters can capture. Is it the small dirt and debris only or both small and large debris? Maintenance, too, is crucial with the best models featuring top-load access filters and full bin notifications. So, how does the Cayman compare to the Escape?
Dolphin Cayman comes with a fine filter kit that captures all kinds of debris, from large debris to fine debris. If you have set your pool under the trees, don’t worry. It can pick up all cones, leaves, and small twigs. For those on sandy spots, don’t worry, as all the Cayman can also pick up all the sand pebbles kids throw into the water.
We are glad the filter compartment is quite large, so you won’t have to empty it now and then. Unfortunately, there is no full bin indicator, so you always have to be on the radar. But the good news is that this top-load filter offers easy and mess-free bin removal.
There is no difference in the Dolphin Escape’s filtration system. It also comes with a fine filter kit that can capture all kinds of pool debris, including algae, sand pebbles, cones, leaves, etc. It also features a massive top-load filter that can hold a week’s dirt from a busy pool.
The top-load design also makes maintenance a buzz, as you can access the filter compartment easily. Like the Cayman, the Dolphin Escape has no full bin indicator, so consider emptying the filter compartment often.
6. Navigation
Robot cleaners operate autonomously. They find their way around the pool by themselves and decide the most efficient paths for entire-level cleaning. At the core of this autonomy is an intelligent navigation system.
Some models have average navigation systems that don’t guarantee entire-level coverage and efficiency, while others have the latest systems that ensure the robot reaches every spot in your pool without hitting obstacles or getting stuck. So, which model has the best navigation system?
Dolphin Cayman is an intelligent robot vacuum that perceives your pool’s layout with humanlike accuracy. The robot has been engineered with SmartNav 2.0 Pool Mapping System, which gives it the intelligence to avoid obstacles, it can’t overcome, such as walls, ladders, steps, and drains.
Once such obstacles are detected, the robot changes direction. When it comes to the cleaning pattern, SmartNav 2.0 will scan and map your home and use a systematic cleaning pattern, ensuring that no spot is missed, regardless of the shape of your pool.
Dolphin Escape is not different from Dolphin Cayman as it has been engineered with SmartNav 2.0 Pool Mapping System. It is also a smart robot vacuum with a processor and a set of other components, including sensors for obstacle detection.
Besides obstacle detection, the robot pool cleaner scans and maps your entire pool area and calculates the most efficient paths to follow. Unlike typical robot cleaners, it uses efficient cleaning paths that ensure the robot finishes the cleaning on time and, importantly, passes on every spot.
7. Maneuvering
Besides navigation, how the robot cleaner maneuvers is a critical assessment factor. You definitely want a robot with a robust drive system for faster propulsion and a track system that offers better maneuverability and grip than wheels. Tracks are also gentle on fragile pool floors such as fiberglass. So, what maneuvering systems do the Cayman and Escape feature?
When it comes to maneuvering, the Dolphin Cayman packs a dual-drive system powered by two 24-volt DC motors that pack excellent power and cut down power usage by up to 90%. This makes the Cayman one of the most energy-efficient pool cleaners we have tested. Interestingly, operating it costs just five cents per kWh. You can keep it running for longer without spiking your monthly energy bills.
For locomotion, the robot features HyperGrip Rubber Tracks instead of wheels. The tracks are an innovative tread solution that prevents slipping and enhances grip when the robot is climbing walls. Needless to say, the treads are gentle on pool floors, so don’t worry about scratches. Also worth mentioning is Quick-Purge Technology, a water release mechanism that ejects water behind faster, making propulsion easier.
The Dolphin Escape is similar to the Dolphin Cayman in terms of maneuverability as it is also a dual-drive system. It packs two 24-volt DC motors under the hood. The two motors put up excellent power for propulsion and keep down energy bills. Dolphin Escape also runs on a paltry 180 watts translating to an operating cost of just 5 cents per hour which is impressive.
Regarding movement, this pool cleaner also deploys tracks instead of wheels. Dubbed HyperGrip Rubber Tracks, they can go anywhere and climb those large pieces of debris that the cleaner can’t capture. These tracks are also gentle on fragile pool surfaces such as fiberglass. The Dolphin Escape also has that ergonomic design behind Quick-Purge Technology.
8. Convenience Features
Robot cleaners are meant to cut down the time you spend cleaning your pool. They have plenty of convenience features to make pool cleaning easy and stress-free. These features include remote operation, programming, and so on. But then, convenience varies from one pool cleaner to another. In this segment, find out how the two robot cleaners compare in terms of convenience.
One of the most reliable convenience features that the Cayman comes with is the Weekly Timer. It enables you to decide when your Cyaman should clean the pool for the rest of the week. No need to tell the robot to get to work every day.
Unfortunately, it lacks Enhanced Cleaning cycles, a feature that allows you to decide the cleaning cycle duration. Also, there is no Delay feature or remote operation. All the same, it is a great deal now that programming the cleaner can save you a few bucks on your energy bills.
Unfortunately, the Dolphin Escape is not in any way endowed when it comes to convenience. It doesn’t have automation, meaning there is no Weekly Timer.
It also lacks Enhanced Cleaning Cycles, remote control, and Delay feature. However, it’s still a worthy choice if you don’t mind manually prompting the robot to clean.
9. What’s in the Box?
What do you find in the respective packages of the two robotic pool cleaners? You must know what comes with these pool cleaners and what they don’t come with so you don’t get served a rude shock when the order arrives. The best model should have all the necessary accessories to start cleaning your pool immediately. So, what do the Dolphin Cayman and Dolphin Escape come with?
Dolphin Cayman Robotic Pool Cleaner
The Dolphin Cayman package comes with the following:
- Dolphin Cayman Robotic Pool Cleaner (1)
- Power Supply Unit (1)
- Multi-Layer Filter Basket (1)
- User Manual (1)
- Quick Start Guide (1)
- Registration Card (1)
Remember, you can opt for other accessories sold separately, for example, a Universal Dolphin Caddy and a premium Caddy Cover.
Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner
On the other hand, the Dolphin Escape package includes the following:
- Dolphin Escape Robotic Pool Cleaner (1)
- Power Supply Unit (1)
- Multi-Layer Filter Basket (1)
- User Manual (1)
- Quick Start Guide (1)
- Registration Card (1)
Again, you can opt for a Universal Dolphin Caddy and a premium Caddy Cover.
10. Warranty and Aftersales
This last round of this Dolphin Cayman vs. Escape comparison review focuses on the warranty that the duo comes with. Obviously, you want a model with an extended warranty just in case the cleaner develops a problem. With a warranty, you can get repairs or replacements. We will also focus on aftersales. Here find out how easy it is to get support when you are stuck, and notably, the availability of replacement parts and supplies.
A 2-year warranty backs Dolphin Cayman, so if the pool cleaner breaks down within the first two years of purchase, you may be eligible for repair or replacement. But make sure to abide by the warranty terms and conditions.
Regarding support, Maytronics has a very responsive team, though you may not get feedback immediately. However, plenty of resources in the form of guides and video tutorials form a solid troubleshooting guide. As for parts and supplies, they are in plenty.
Dolphin Escape also comes with a 2-year warranty, so don’t fret if the cleaner develops problems within the first two years of use. But again, check the warranty terms and conditions to avoid voiding the warranty.
Support is also readily available, and so are replacement parts and supplies such as caddies, covers, filters, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can you use Dolphin Cayman in an inground pool?
Yes. You can use the Dolphin Cayman or Escape in an inground pool. But make sure the robot is submerged, and the pool is not so big.2. How long can a Dolphin Escape last?
3. Can you leave a Dolphin Cayman pool cleaner in the pool?
4. How often should I run my Dolphin Escape pool cleaner?
5. Can you swim while a Dolphin Cayman pool vacuum is in the water?
Wrapping Up
That’s it, a detailed Dolphin Cayman vs. Escape comparison review. So, what’s the best Dolphin above-ground pool cleaner? Well, it’s hard to call a winner as both models share quite a lot. However, we feel the Cayman is the best choice as it offers automation and can handle a larger pool. However, get the Dolphin Escape if you are on a budget and want a faster cleaning cycle.
Professional engineer with 7 years of experience in trading and service of swimming pools covers all tricky cases and the most detailed reviews of pool equipment. Helps in challenging cases with a cup of coffee!
