Dolphin E10 vs. Nautilus CC Comprehensive Comparison
Many owners of medium and large swimming pools torment themselves with manual or semi-automatic cleaners because of the trivial prejudice. They wrongly believe that robotic pool cleaners cost a fortune, seem too hard to program and just aren’t worth all this hustle and bustle.
If you recognized yourself in this description, welcome to our surprising Dolphin E10 vs Nautilus CC comparison! While Dolphin E10 and Dolphin Nautilus CC cannot boast the latest high-tech features presented in their younger Maytronics brothers, both customers and experts are unanimous in finding a perfect balance in these products. The reasons we chose these devices are their relative affordability (you can easily find more expensive non-robotic cleaners now) and exclusive control plainness.
Contents
Comparison Table Dolphin E10 vs. Dolphin Nautilus CC
Main Differences Between the Models
In general, Dolphin E10 and Dolphin Nautilus CC provide almost the same performance. But being a later model, the CC features a couple of significant improvements. So, before we pass to the detailed comparison, let’s look through the list of the models’ crucial differences:
- The Nautilus CC model was developed for pools up to 33 ft in length (and even longer), while the E10 performance is limited by 30 ft.
- Partially, the Nautilus CC can work in larger reservoirs thanks to a longer 50 ft cord. Its rival comes with a 40 ft cord. Otherwise, the cables are absolutely identical.
- Dolphin E10 eliminates all dirt from floors. Dolphin Nautilus CC can also climb walls and steps for more comprehensive cleaning results.
- However, the first device deals with pollution faster. Its cleaning cycle takes 1.5 hours only. The CC model needs 2 hours to perform cleaning.
- Both robots use CleverClean sensor navigation, and Dolphin E10 also features the Obstacle Escape System.
- Only the younger Nautilus series vac provides us with three schedule settings to program everyday, every other day, or every third day cleaning.
1. Dolphin E10 Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
Dolphin E10 was designed as a simple robot for medium above ground pools and more complex inground basins up to 30 ft in size. The unit provides thorough bottom cleaning, dirt suction and algae scrubbing with a single soft brush, as well as water filtration through a filter basket.
The bot can even navigate underwater, avoiding major obstacles and running in the simplest rows. The manufacturer has already integrated its famous CleverClean technology into this model.
All in all, cleaning takes 1.5 hours. Besides, you don’t have to get into the water each time you need to start or stop a cycle. A nice touch screen will help you do it remotely.
importantSome misses are why we still call the E10 a basic model. The bot will clean floors only and won’t process walls or waterline. We cannot count on the cycle schedule here, too, so each session is initiated manually only. Finally, a non-swivel cable sometimes causes tangling.
However, most customers easily deal with these drawbacks valuing all its pros. The E10 requires no extra pumps or hoses, works fast and neat, is convenient in transportation and operation. Finally, it’s fully energy-efficient. Simpler operation saves your money twice – during purchase and later during use.
We’d recommend Dolphin E10 to owners of small/medium-sized pools subject to large debris rather than sediments. If you’re on a budget and look for a simple yet intelligent operation, this device is yours too.
- the best option for above ground and medium inground pools
- energy-saving
- needs no extra equipment
- deals with large and fine debris thanks to a roller-scrubber
- processes floor
- CleverClean navigation with Obstacle Escape System helps avoid barriers
- fast 1.5 hours cleaning cycle
- easy-emptying top-load basket with excellent capacity
- light body with an additional quick water release system
- a remote touch screen included
- doesn’t clean walls and waterline
- doesn’t support cleaning schedules
- may lose too fine dirt particles
- a 40 ft cable may tangle
2. Dolphin Nautilus CC Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
At first glance, the Nautilus provides its services for the same type of pools – both inground and above ground reservoirs up to 33ft. We note familiar CleverClean navigation, which is even reflected in the model name (the CC series). Cleaning tools are also presented by a single silicone scrubber and a spacious filter basket.
However, this time, we get comprehensive pool surface processing, including not only floor but walls and steps. Wall climbing and greater attention to navigation cause longer operation, so one cycle takes 2 hours.
Despite the increased electricity consumption, the bot stays pretty efficient thanks to a special Energy Saving mode. You can activate it on a touch screen. But the best screen improvement is three schedule settings for every day, every other day, or every third day operation. The function makes life much easier, eliminating the need for manual session starts within at least three days.
As you see, Dolphin Nautilus CC offers significantly improved functionality. In addition, the manufacturer worked over the major drawbacks of the previous devices. The only ones left are a tangling cable, no waterline cleaning, and fine dirt missing.
Besides, the unit won’t cost you as much as one may think. Thus, though you may have a modest pool (up to 33ft), safely choose the Nautilus if you’re looking for hassle-free programming and more thorough surface processing.
- universal model suitable for above ground and inground pools
- cleans almost every pool corner, including the walls and steps
- uses a grabby scrubber to pick up large debris and fine particles
- CleverClean navigation
- a more thorough 2-hour cleaning cycle
- allows for setting one of three cleaning schedule scenarios
- a large, easy-emptying top-load filter basket
- supports a quick water release system
- a remote touch screen included
- saves electricity thanks to the energy-saving mode
- still cannot climb waterline
- may lose too fine dirt particles
- a longer 50 ft cable of the same simple design provokes more frequent tangling
Wall Climbing: The Deciding Factor
For most American pool owners comparing these two models, wall climbing ability is the single most important factor — and the one that justifies paying $100–150 more for the Nautilus CC.
Here’s the key difference in plain terms: Dolphin E10 is strictly a floor cleaner. It uses its tracks and sensors to navigate pool floors efficiently, and while it may occasionally roll up the curved transition between the floor and wall (the “cove”), it does not actually climb vertical surfaces. If your walls develop algae streaks, biofilm, or calcium deposits, the E10 simply won’t reach them.
Dolphin Nautilus CC, by contrast, is purpose-built for vertical surfaces. Its CleverClean software includes dedicated wall-climbing logic — the robot detects the transition from horizontal to vertical surface, adjusts its motor output and track grip, and systematically works its way up the wall. During our testing, the Nautilus CC handled the curved corners of a vinyl liner pool noticeably better than the E10, completing full wall passes without slipping back. It also navigates step edges reliably, cleaning both the horizontal tread and the vertical riser.
When Does Wall Climbing Actually Matter?Wall climbing matters most if: (1) your pool sits under trees or near flower beds and collects pollen and algae on the waterline; (2) you have an inground pool with smooth plaster or vinyl walls that get slimy quickly; (3) you only run your cleaner every few days and need it to do a thorough job each time. If you have a small above ground pool with a simple round shape and clean it every day or two, floor-only cleaning from the E10 may be perfectly sufficient.
Note that neither model cleans the waterline itself — that thin strip right at the water’s surface where oils and sunscreen accumulate. For waterline cleaning, you would need to look at higher-end Maytronics models. But the Nautilus CC gets close enough that manual waterline scrubbing is needed far less often.
Bottom line: If your pool is 24 ft or smaller and you’re primarily fighting leaves and large debris on the floor, save money with the E10. If your pool is 28–33 ft, has walls that get slimy or algae-prone, or you simply want a robot that cleans the full pool surface — the Nautilus CC is the only logical choice between these two models.
Face to Face Comparison
Now, let’s pass on to the detailed comparison of the Dolphins’ characteristics.
Design and Dimensions
Externally, the bots feature identical designs (shape, scrubbers, tracks, carry handles, etc.). Also, the manufacturer uses durable plastic for bodies that withstands impacts and water influence. The only difference is the color solution. While the E10 is made in a light scheme, the CC model offers dark colors with blue insertions.
As we’ve said, both cleaners come with simple non-swivel cords that slightly vary in length. Below, you can see more detailed information on Dolphins’ dimensions, weight, and cord length:
Dolphin E10 has:
- 18″ x 22″ x 12″ dimensions;
- 22.7 pounds weight;
- a simple 40 ft power cord;
Dolphin Nautilus CC features:
- 16.38″ x 16.77″ x 8.97″ dimensions;
- a more lightweight 14 lb body;
- a 50ft cord power cord;
Cleaning Performance
Dolphin E10
Dolphin E10 is equipped with one silicone brush called Single Active Scrubber. The scrubber features numerous soft teeth that trap large dirt, gently scrub sediment, and direct them into the suction port. The model can double scrubber rotation for the tough pollutions.
The bot is quite efficient, but the simplicity of the cleaning tool, navigation, and tracks allows it to process pool floors only. Please mind that Dolphin E10 cannot climb vertical surfaces like walls, steps, and so on.
However, you’ll need only 1.5 hours to collect dirt and filter water, which is a great plus of the device. This is the only cleaning cycle available in this model.
Dolphin Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC series comes with the same Single Active Scrubber. Once again, one tool can deal with various pollutants, including the typical leaves, sticks, insects, algae, and sediment.
The scrubber will also double its rotation speed automatically when necessary.
Despite the same cleaning tool, the manufacturer significantly expanded the cleaning area. Nautilus will both process the floor and climb walls and steps. This improvement cannot be overestimated.
But at the same time, the more areas you clean, the more time you need. The CC deals with the whole pool within 2 hours. This is also the only cycle.
verdictCertainly, Dolphin Nautilus CC carries the palm in terms of cleaning performance. The unit easily climbs walls, which takes only 30 minutes more.
However, the E10 doesn’t lose much. It offers the same quality of cleaning. Besides, please mind that Dolphin E10 is more energy-efficient. So if you’re looking for a quick yet economic model, choose the first device of our Dolphin E10 vs Dolphin Nautilus CC comparison.
Filtration
All Maytronics pool cleaners are equipped with either cartridge filters or large baskets. The E10 and the Nautilus CC come into the second category.
Both bots feature the so-called top-load filter basket. To put it simply, the unit looks like a large box with fine filter cartridges served as walls. Such a construction allows for both holding a large amount of dirt and cleaning water from small particles.
And a top-load name means that the basket is located in the upper part of the cleaner. And you only need to open the panel to pull the box out. Thus, Dolphins ensure rare but very easy emptying. Just pull out the basket, through dirt, and rinse walls with clean water.
Filtration Differences You Should KnowWhile both models use top-load filter baskets, there is a meaningful difference between them. The Dolphin E10 comes standard with a mesh basket designed primarily for large debris — leaves, twigs, insects, and coarse sediment. It does a solid job with these but will let very fine particles like sand, silt, and pollen pass through.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC, in many retail bundles and newer production runs, includes a fine filter basket with denser pleated walls that capture smaller particles — including pollen, fine sand, and algae spores. For pool owners in the Southeast or areas with heavy tree cover, this difference is significant.
Both models are compatible with Maytronics’ optional ultra-fine filter baskets (sold separately for approximately $30–40), which provide even finer filtration if your pool water tends to stay cloudy after cleaning.
verdictIf your pool is subject to large debris (like constantly falling leaves), you cannot find a better filtration. The process is effortless and quick. For fine pollen and sand, the Nautilus CC has an edge — and you can upgrade the E10 with an aftermarket fine filter if needed. Neither model guarantees perfect filtration of the finest particles at stock configuration.
Smart navigation technologies are the main advantages of robotic pool cleaners. Medium-level Maytronics models use patented CleverClean navigation. This is especially notable in the Dolphin Nautilus CC model, where CC stands exactly for the CleverClean.
The system is based on numerous sensors spread along the bot’s body. Sensors scan surroundings and detect standard obstacles (walls, steps, lighting elements). Once the cleaner noticed the barrier, it changes the route.
Apart from the CC system, Dolphin E10 can also boast the so-called Obstacle Escape System that ensures more sensors and, consequently, more precise obstacle detection. Maytronics provides no official information on the presence of this technology in the Nautilus series.
Navigation allows for making a step forward from the primitive random cleaning. However, let’s speak frankly, bare sensor technology is not the best. Cleaning routes may be not that consistent and thorough. Besides, cleaners cannot detect dirt for more accurate cleaning.
verdictThus, both our Dolphins keep safe from hitting. The navigation system they use allows for taking into account obstacles and collecting all debris they face. The bots may return to the area they cleaned before and mess the routes, but we still consider their navigation pretty efficient for quality and quick cleaning. Dolphin E10 may be slightly more accurate, though the difference is not that great.
Control
There is no need to dive for your pool cleaner anymore. Since robots support remote control, you can use it every time you’d like to start or stop cleaning. However, we note the great difference between the competitors here.
Dolphin E10
Dolphin E10 is accompanied by a compact and light touch screen.
The unit offers the simplest control options limited by On/Off and Energy Saving modes.
You just put the bot into the water and press the necessary button – plain, simple, and efficient.
Dolphin Nautilus CC
Dolphin Nautilus CC gained great improvement. Its touch screen is also equipped with On/Off and Energy Saving mode buttons. However, apart from that, you can notice three additional buttons on the controller.
These are three schedule settings. Thanks to them, users can preprogram pool cleaning sessions according to three scenarios: every day, every other day, and every third day cleaning.
verdictUndoubtedly, the Nautilus wins this round. Cleaning schedules eliminate any need for manual bot control and save your time. For American homeowners who value automation, the weekly timer is arguably a deal-breaker — you simply set your preferred schedule once and forget about it. The E10 requires you to manually press start every single time, which adds up to noticeable inconvenience over a pool season.
Motor
Robotic pool cleaners work independently from pool pumps, filters, and other communications. They come with a standard 24V motor that consumes about 180 watts and requires 110V. Thus, both Dolphins generate a 4000 GPH suction rate.
verdictIndependent and compact motors make our Dolphins quite a profitable purchase in terms of electricity bills and power. If you are worried about this aspect, you can safely choose any of our models and enjoy perfect cleanliness almost for free.
Transport Caddy
As we’ve already discussed, these bots are pretty light. Still, once you emerge them in the pool, water increases the weight. That’s why many customers inquire about special transport caddies.
Maytronics produces a universal transport caddy suitable for all its robot pool cleaners but doesn’t include it in the kit for free. So if you need some, be ready to pay an extra $100.
Value for Money: Is the Price Difference Worth It?
This is the question we get most often, so let’s be direct.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC typically costs $100–150 more than the E10. Here is how to decide if that premium makes sense for you:
Choose the Dolphin E10 if: Your pool is 24 ft or smaller. You mostly deal with leaves and large debris. You don’t mind pressing start manually every time. Your pool walls stay clean and you’ve never had an algae problem on vertical surfaces.
Choose the Dolphin Nautilus CC if: Your pool is 28–33 ft long and requires the full 50 ft cable reach. Your pool walls get slimy or develop algae between cleanings. You want to set a schedule and not think about it for days at a time. Fine pollen or sand is a persistent problem in your water.
One useful way to frame it: the extra cost of the Nautilus CC buys you wall cleaning + scheduling automation. If you need both, it’s excellent value. If you need neither, the E10 delivers the same core floor-cleaning performance for less money.
Pro tip from our experience: owners of 30 ft above ground pools often find the E10 sufficient if the pool sits in an open yard without overhanging trees. Owners of inground pools with plaster or pebble surfaces almost always benefit from the Nautilus CC, because walls on these surfaces accumulate biofilm much faster.
Buyer’s Guide – How to Choose the Best Robotic Pool Cleaner?
Here is a small guide on how to focus on essential characteristics when purchasing your first robot pool cleaner. All these moments were highlighted in the course of the Dolphin E10 vs Dolphin Nautilus CC comparison, but we’d like to mention them one more time for you.
- floors;
- floors and walls;
- floors, walls, and waterline;
Certainly, the more zones it covers, the better. But the last type is the most expensive, while not all pool owners obligatory require waterline cleaning. So, please mind this moment and try it for your budget when choosing.
Those models that have sensors, scanners, and other navigation methods provide much more efficient operation within a shorter time. This is a must for large reservoirs full of obstacles (steps, niches, recesses). However, the owners of smaller plain basins may find smart navigation unnecessary.
More affordable robots use remote controls with fewer settings. Usually, it’s on/off buttons, a couple of cleaning modes, and scheduling. Please mind that the more schedule settings you have, the more convenient you’ll feel later.
Budget cleaners may come with control at all. Here, you run your device with buttons on the body.
Control doesn’t directly influence the cleaning result. It’s all about your convenience, so please choose as you wish but don’t forget about this factor.
So, do remember it and pick up the most suitable filtration system depending on your type of pool pollution.
Usually, you can choose between 1 hour, 1.5 hours, 2 hours, and 2.5 hours cycles. Rare models combine several modes, but you can find such cleaners. We can also recommend models with several cycles to those customers who use their pools irregularly. Also, long cleaning cycles are preferable for large basins.
If you use your pool daily and don’t want to spend money on multiple cycles, it’s better to get the golden-mean options – 1.5 or 2 hours modes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dolphin E10 vs Dolphin Nautilus CC: what is the best robot pool cleaner for above ground pools?
Dolphin Nautilus СС processes more surfaces and ensures more convenient control. However, owners of medium-sized above ground pools may find Dolphin E10 a better option thanks to its shorter cord (that tangles less) and more precise sensor navigation.Is the Dolphin Nautilus CC worth the extra money for an above-ground pool?
Can I use a fine filter basket with the Dolphin E10?
Does Dolphin Nautilus CC handle algae better than E10?
Dolphin Nautilus CC vs Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus: what’s the difference?
Read more detailed Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus vs Dolphin Nautilus CC comparison in our review.
Can I improve Dolphin E10 and Dolphin Nautilus CC filtration performance?
Can I use my Dolphin pool cleaner with the pool pump running?
How long do Dolphin robot pool cleaners last?
Conclusion
Now, we can come to certain conclusions concerning today’s Dolphins.
In our opinion, Dolphin E10 is an excellent choice for customers on a budget. It’s simple, affordable, and very efficient. Choose this device if you own an above ground pool and don’t need something extraordinary in control.
Dolphin Nautilus CC is designed for larger constructions and owners with greater requirements for control comfort. So, here you pay for three schedule settings and wall-cleaning capability rather than just improved performance.
Anyway, both devices will save you from manual cleaning without ruining your budget. That’s why we still love them even compared to more innovative models.
Jesse
Thanks for the comparison. Do I need to change filter sheets from time to time and if so how often should I do it?
Marcus Robertson
Hi, Jesse! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphin E10 and Nautilus series offer the same filter baskets with removable and washable screens. These elements are very long-term. So in fact, all you need is to empty the basket and rinse it after every cleaning cycle. However, if some of them are out of order (demage or wearout) you can purchase a new solid basket only.
Mohammad
Dear Marcus! I liked your review very much, thank you. But do Dolphin pool cleaners support any other remote control options? I’d like to have an opportunity to set cleaning and control it even when I’m out. Is there any kind of phone control?
Marcus Robertson
Hi, Mohammad! Thank you very much for your question! Concerning Dolphin E10 and Nautilus CC models we discussed in the review we should note that these models do not possess “smart” control through phones. But Dolphin company has designed more up-to-date cleaners that support app schedule and control. If you’d like to consider such products, we’d recommend you learning more about Dolphin Sigma or Dolphin Triton PS Plus. Besides, Dolphin’s closest competitor Polaris has also released Polaris 9650IQ model with app control.
Charly
Hi, gays! I just wanna say you really do great reviews! I read this comparison and bought Dolphin E10 about 2 months ago. Works great for its money. Thank you for your help!
Marcus Robertson
Hi, Charly! Thank you so much for your kind words) We’re happy to hear that our reviews really help people choose a useful assistants.