Best Dolphin Pool Cleaners (Premier, Sigma, Nautilus CC Plus, Triton PS Plus, Triton PS)
Which is the best purchase in this comparison review?
You will agree with me that automatic cleaners are the best when it comes to maintaining pool hygiene.
One of the best brands in the market is Dolphin, from the renowned US company Maytronics.
Over the years, Maytronics has released several Dolphin series, such as Premier, Triton, Sigma, and Nautilus. Great interest draws the Dolphin Triton PS vs Plus battle, while others are also worthy choosing. So, for pool owners, choosing the best model can be quite a challenge.
Find out which model excels in which areas, and why. But before we go to the finer details, here are the highlights of each model.
Best Dolphin Pool Cleaners
Our Expert Advice
All pool cleaners should be stored appropriately while not used for a significant time. They should be dry with a clean filter basket installed correctly. The cable should be rolled without kinks. The perfect storage place is a closed shelter without direct sun/rain/snow or frost that keeps the temperature 41-113 oF.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Dolphin Premier
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It comes with a multimedia filtration system that includes micro-cartridges, standard cartridges, and an oversized leaf/debris bag. This is among the latest models, and despite the high price tag, its performance is excellent.
The Dolphin Premier comes with two scrubbing brushes and two motors that ensure proper suction. The cleaner scrubs the pool floors, walls, and the waterline. SmartNav technology guarantees entire pool coverage and efficient cleaning.
The Dolphin Premier is compatible with a physical remote and tags along with a 3-year warranty.
So far, the Dolphin Premier is a favorite to many pool owners.It is the best bang for the buck. We also expected it to feature mobile app operation now that it is among the high-end models. Another thing, the manual remote isn’t so effective; very sluggish and could waste you a lot of time.
2. Dolphin Sigma
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On this platform, you can operate the cleaner from a distance while it is in the pool. It is also equipped with a gyroscope for better maneuverability. Buy the Sigma is you have large pools with irregular shapes.
When it comes to cleaning performance, you can rely on the Dolphin Sigma to clean pools of up to 50 feet courtesy of the 60-foot Swivel cable. It can handle the pool floor, walls, and the waterline and packs excellent raw power.
Under the hood, this cleaner boasts Triple Motor Power and Quad Brushes which scrub and suck dirt with a lot of ease.
The Sigma is quite expensive but worth every penny. One of the shortcomings is that setting up the Bluetooth function is quite a challenge. The app also has a lot of bugs that ought to be fixed for seamless operation.
3. Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
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But it’s worth noting that the Nautilus CC Plus brings several extras on board and hence higher price tag.
This model comes with the Weekly Scheduler function, which is a must-have for the busy pool owners. It also boasts a shorter 2-hour cleaning cycle while the older Nautilus is 3 hours.
Even though the duo has Large Cartridge filters, Nautilus has a bottom load design while Nautilus CC Plus has a top load design for better usability. The warranty for Nautilus is also longer; 2.5 years compared to Nautilus’ 1 year.
Like we mentioned above, the Nautilus CC Plus has a higher price tag, but justifiable. Besides the high price, the Nautilus CC Plus is also heavier by around 3 lbs.
4. Dolphin Triton PS Plus
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The two cleaners are suitable for pools of up to 50ft and come with Swivel cables. They also include an Active brush and a Standard brush for thorough cleaning.
Triton and Triton PS Plus are reliable models that can handle the pool floor, walls, up to the waterline. They both weigh 16lbs and come with a two-year warranty. Above all, they feature a Weekly Scheduler function for your convenience.
But what are the differences between Triton vs. Triton PS Plus?
- First, the Triton PS Plus boasts a customizable cleaning cycle. While Triton offers you a 2-hour cleaning cycle only, you can toggle between the standard 2-hour cleaning cycle and a quick 1-hour cleaning cycle.
- The Triton PS Plus also boasts mobile app operation via the MyDolphin app courtesy of Bluetooth connectivity.
Expect to pay a little more for the Triton PS Plus. But the question will be, do you really need the extra features? Well, the answer should be yes!
5. Dolphin Triton PS Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner
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attentionPlease also mind that Triton PS supports only a Standard 2-hour cleaning cycle and lacks Quick 1-hour mode.
That’s it. All other functions make it a decent alternative to more expensive Triton PS Plus. The unit works with large inground pools up to 50 ft, has a tangle-free 60ft cord, dual scrubbers, a large, easy-to-clean top-load filter basket.
This set allows it to clean all pool surfaces, including walls and waterline.
When it comes to controlling, users can program their robot remotely through a touchpad and even set a weekly cleaning schedule.
You’ll have to sacrifice a more convenient smartphone control, but for many customers, it’s not such a big deal. Other drawbacks are a bit weaker navigation and several issues with the cord, despite the fact it should not tangle.
Dolphin Pool Cleaners Comparison Review
Now, ‘let’s get to the main agenda of the day; comparing the important aspects that should advise your purchase decision. So, without further ado, ‘let’s get to business.
1. Dimensions and weight
Occasionally, you will need to remove the cleaner from the pool and carry it around. For that reason, the best choice will be a lightweight and ergonomic model.
So, how do the four Dolphin cleaners compare as far as the design is concerned?
- Dolphin Premier measures 23.5 x 20 x 14 inches and weighs 36lbs.
- The Nautilus measures 16 x 10 x 16 inches and weighs 19lbs.
- The third is the Dolphin Sigma, which measures 23.3 x 19.5 x 13.7 inches and weighs 35lbs.
- Last is the Triton PS Plus, which is 16.4 x 16.8 x 9 inches and weighs 16lbs.
verdictIdeally, you want a lightweight and ergonomic pool cleaner, and that makes the Triton PS Plus the best choice. But it’s also important to note that size at times implies more features and heavy-duty performance. For that reason, let not the handling of the cleaner be a priority when selecting the right model.
2. Pool Type
There are different kinds of pool surfaces, each with specific demands when it comes to cleaning.
All the Dolphin pool cleaners in our review have been designed to clean a range of pool surfaces. You can rely on them to clean fiberglass pools, gunite, plaster, and vinyl.
verdictHere, we wouldn’t say that there is a better choice as they clean all pool surfaces.
3. Cleaning Orientation
Before settling for any cleaner, you should understand the cleaning orientation.
Ordinarily, your pool will require cleaning on the floors, walls and even the waterline. Make sure you pick a cleaner that can handle all your needs.
- Dolphin Nautilus will clean the pool floor and wall effectively, and it’s the only different model.
- The other three Dolphin cleaners will handle the pool floor, walls, and the waterline as well.
verdictNautilus is not a smart choice here because it doesn’t clean up to the waterline. Any of the remaining three are great choices if you want comprehensive pool cleaning.
4. Motors
Robotic pool cleaners rely on motors for vacuuming power and in others, scrubbing.
attentionThe best models should have a powerful and efficient motor. Also note that the more the motors, the better the suction power and scrubbing, as well as maneuvering.
So, what do the four Dolphin models offer here?
The Dolphin Premier, Triton and Nautilus feature Ultra-Efficient Twin DC Motors. The company suggests up to 90% efficiency.
On the other hand, the Sigma has been upgraded with a Triple Motor Power design, and that means it has three motors.
verdictAs we said earlier, efficiency and the number of motors is what’s important here. For that reason, the Dolphin Sigma is our winner here.
5. Filtration
You should choose your pool cleaner depending on the dirt and debris around your pool. Once you know the kind of dirt you’ll be dealing with, you can then choose the filtration system.
Large debris is not demanding, but for the small trash, you need a fine filter.
Let’s see what Dolphin Nautilus, Sigma, Premier, and Triton offer.
- The Dolphin Premier boasts multimedia filters which allow you to capture both the small and large dirt debris. They include Multi-Media, Oversized Leaf Bag, Ultra-Fine, and Fine Cartridge.
- Sigma comes with a fine and ultra-fine filter, making it ideal for small debris only. Premier and Sigma feature bottom load designs.
- As for Nautilus and Triton, Maytronics included a large filter and an extra-large filter respectively. The two are top-load filters.
verdictThere is no clear winner here as it depends on the dirt you will be dealing with. But we prefer the Dolphin Premier for its multimedia filter system.
6. Brush & Scrubbing System
While low-end robotic pool cleaners just suck up the dirt, the high-end models have brushes which scrub the pool surface removing stuck-on dirt like algae. If you want the best comprehensive cleaning, consider a model with an active scrubbing or brushing system.
- Dolphin Premier and Triton PS Plus come with 1 Active, and 1 Standard brush. The two offer excellent scrubbing on tough stains and are also gentle on the delicate pool surfaces like fiberglass.
- The Sigma and Nautilus CC Plus also feature a Powerful, dual scrubbing brush system with two standard brushes which are effective on stuck on dirt like algae and bacteria.
verdictThere is no clear winner here as all the four have a dual scrubbing system, and even though they may bear different designs, the performance is equal.
7. Navigation and Mapping
Robotic pool cleaners navigate and plan the cleaning pattern autonomously. With an efficient navigation system, your pool will be cleaned entirely, and in a shorter time.
Let’s find out what each of the four Dolphin pool cleaners offers here.
- Dolphin Premier and Sigma boast SmartNav 3.0 Navigation system that scans and maps out your pool, including any obstacles, and ladder. The two are also equipped with a gyroscope which resolves tilt and orientation.
- As for Dolphin Nautilus and Triton PS Plus, they come with CleverClean Technology which also maps your pool on the same fashion as SmartNav. The big difference between SmartNav vs. CleverClean is the fact that the former has a gyroscope system.
verdictBoth SmartNav and CleverClean are intelligent and will navigate around the pool and climb walls with ease. We, however, prefer Dolphin cleaners with a gyroscope system. A gyroscope improves performance in the sense that it constantly monitors angular velocity in terms of yaw, pitch, and roll. That makes Dolphin Premier and Sigma the best choice here. If you have a large or irregular pool, the duo is priority.
8. Propulsion
How do these robotic pool cleaners move? In other words, what powers them?
All the Dolphin robotic cleaners in this review use a jet propulsion system, but the Triton PS Plus offers more courtesy of PowerStream Technology. It ensures steady streaming and climbs walls with ease.
verdictWhile the Triton PS Plus might look like the better choice here, the four are all good to go, so this shouldn’t be a headache when selecting the right cleaner for your pool.
9. Maneuvering
Even with a navigation system and propulsion, you still have to consider the maneuvering mechanism of your robot cleaner. There are models with wheels while others have tracks.
All the Dolphins in this review have tracks. They provide the best grip when climbing steps and walls. On the sticky and sliding spots like on algae, grips are better than wheels.
verdictHard to call a winner as they all boast Dolphin’s HyperGrip tracks.
10 . Cable
This is a significant consideration that determines which pool sizes the cleaner can handle.
importantIf you have a 50-foot pool, you will need at least 60 ft of cable for entire level cleaning.
Besides cable length, usability also matters.
These Dolphin pool cleaners boast the same cable length; 60ft to be precise. That means they will handle pools of up to 50ft comfortably.
All the four cleaners also have Swivel Technology that prevents tangling, a major headache for pool owners. The construction is excellent and should offer some lengthy service before replacement.
verdictNo winner here as all the four models offer the same cable length and 360° anti-tangle swivel system.
11. Cleaning cycle
The cleaning cycle is the time that the robot cleaner will be in the pool, scrubbing and sucking up dirt. Some models take long to clean while others take a short time, the latter is better, as long as it leaves the pool clean.
There are also advanced settings to be considered, which allow for better customization.
- The Dolphin Premier has a 3 hours cleaning cycle while Sigma can get the job done in 2.5 hours.
- Next up is Dolphin Nautilus with a standard 2-hour runtime.
- Last is the Triton PS Plus, which is a little more advanced. It offers a quick 1-hour turnaround and a standard 2-hour cycle for intensive cleaning.
verdictThe Dolphin Triton PS Plus is the best choice here as you don’t have to wait for the entire 2 hours if you want a quick swim. If your pool is not so dirty, you can also save energy by using the quick clean.
12. Remote Control
A remote controller tags along with a lot of conveniences. You don’t necessarily have to pull the cleaner out of the pool to access the onboard controls.
Maytronics offers its robotic pool cleaners with IR remote controllers while high-end models offer Smartphone app control.
- Dolphin Nautilus doesn’t have any remote control option, but at least Dolphin Premier comes with an optional IR remote.
- As for Sigma and Triton CC Plus, they support Smartphone App operation but via Bluetooth and not WiFI as expected. In as much as it is convenient, you need to be around the pool for it to work so unlike WI-FI devices, you can’t control your pool cleaner remotely.
verdictHere, the Bluetooth operation is an excellent deal. Get either Triton PS or Sigma for the best convenience.
13. Programmability
Robotic pool cleaners, just like the Roombas, can be programmed. If you want total convenience, this is a feature you should be on the hunt for. But do all the Dolphins offer programmability and schedule functions? Let’s find out.
We are glad all the four models come with a Weekly Timer function. This means they can be scheduled to clean at different times of the week. Just gauge how fast your pool gets dirty and set the appropriate time intervals.
verdictThere is no winner here as all the four Dolphin robot vacuums have the Weekly Timer.
Winner
Now, we have come to the end of this Dolphin robotic pool cleaner comparison review. It’s high time we declare the winner.
But I’m afraid there is no ultimate winner because each model has its strengths and weaknesses. The different features make each model best for specific purposes.
So, to help you get the best value for your money, we have listed the best model based on the different aspects that should inform your purchase decision. So without further ado, here’s the summary of our winners.
Cleaning performance
Which among the four boasts the best cleaning performance? We wanted to give readers a clear picture of how the cleaners worked, so we conducted a week-long test.
We simulated the environment of a busy swimming pool with all kinds of dirt, including worms, insects, sand, twigs, and leaves. We would like to salute Richard Kimberly and his family for letting us spend a few hours at their somewhat abandoned pool that had several algae spots so we could test the scrubbing power.
- Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus was first in the water, and it sucked up all the dirt that we lay on its path courtesy of strong suction and a large top load filter. It climbs the walls thoroughly and scrubbed algae, but on stairs, it is not the best. It also doesn’t clean the waterline.
- Next was Dolphin Premier, and it also did an excellent job picking up the small dirt like sand and worms that crawl and die in the pool. This is courtesy of the multimedia filter bag. For large leaves and twigs, a disposable leaf bag came handy and was large enough to accommodate a reasonably dirty pool. It climbed the walls and scrubbed algae off very well up to the waterline. We, however, noted that it kind of got stuck on drains.
- Our next focus was the Sigma, and it also captured the small and large debris on the pool floor. It was notably monstrous courtesy of the triple motor system. Just like Premier, Sigma also climbed the wall up to the waterline fairly well and scrubbed off algae with vigor.
- Last was the Dolphin Triton PS Plus, and it worked perfectly when it came to collecting large leaves and twigs courtesy of an extra-large top load filter. The small debris were not left behind, but it kind of struggled with the fine sand pebbles.
Usability
When it comes to user-friendliness, we considered aspects like weight, handling, remote operation, programmability, and such. It was tough to come up with a winner here for several reasons.
While a lightweight model was the priority in handling, the heavy models like Dolphin Premier still scored in terms of handling.
Next up is programmability and all the Dolphins boast a weekly timer. Perhaps a discerning factor should be how and where you will program the cleaner. We have onboard controls, as well as remote operation (IR remote or mobile app).
To be honest, you’d think that mobile app operation is the best, but it’s not. It doesn’t offer many advantages over an IR remote because its Bluetooth powered meaning you have to be around the pool for the connection to be possible. This is unlike Wi-Fi-connected appliances which can be controlled from anywhere.
verdictFor this reason, it is a draw but at least, but a model that comes with remote compatibility or mobile app operation if you want the best usability.
Wrapping Up
There you have it folks, a Dolphin Premier vs. Sigma vs. Nautilus CC Plus vs. Triton PS Plus face to face comparison review. As you have seen, there are similarities as well as clear distinctions.
importantThe most important thing is to assess your cleaning needs and choosing the model which has all the features you need.
Which is your best choice? Talk to us in the comments section below.
Hi! I’m Markus Robertson, and water is my passion.
Five years ago, I graduated from the University of California-Los Angeles and was going to become a professional marine biologist. However, my fate had other plans for me, and due to family problems, I had to find a more stable and well-paid job. I had only one wish for my job to be connected with water.
During this period of my life, I worked as a sales manager at Olympic Pool & Spa Supplies. The job helped me learn everything about swimming pools and related pool equipment, as well as how to choose the best option and what to pay attention to.
Hi! You said Dolphin Premier comes with several filters in one kit. How should I choose between a filter bag and cartridge filters? Thanks!
Hello, Triss! Thanks a lot for your question! A filter bag better deals with lots of dirt and large debris like fallen leaves. Use this filter when you need to remove massive pollutions. Cartridge filters are not so capacious, but they provide much more thorough filtration. Thus, we’d recommend installing this unit when you’d like to focus on water quality and eliminating the finest particles. You can apply filters for different cleaning cycles or use them one by one during one cycle for perfect cleanliness.
Hi – I live in the Caribbean and my pool is located in a very windy spot, so gets fine dust and some leaves. It is rectangular. I’m torn between the Triton, CC Plus and Premier, but leaning toward the Triton Plus. However, your comment that it doesn’t clean dust so well has me worried. Any comment?
Hello, Becky! Thank you so much for your question and trust! Indeed, many real users state Tritons sometimes miss leaves and other dirt on the bottom, especially in big pools. The possible reasons are too large pool construction and complicated floor shape. Also, activation of waterline cleaning takes time from other surfaces’ processing, so please mind it. Anyway, you can deal with the missed dirt if you refuse the waterline cleaning or run your cleaner one more time specially for floor scrubbing. Otherwise, it’s a greal option for large pools subject to heavy pollutions. Hope we were of assistance to you!
Hi! Does Dolphin allow users to apply an extension cord with its cleaners if the pool is too far from the outlet? Thanks.
Hello, Ashton! Thank you for your question! Maytronics does not recommend using extension cords for its powered Dolphin products. The proximity of water can cause a short circuit, cleaner breakage, and even fire.
I’m new to pool ownership and all the available equipment. This article is so helpful in deciding which pool cleaner to purchase. Thank you for the detailed comparisons!
Hello, Beth! Thank you very much for your high appreciation and kind words!)
Hi! How loud are Dolphins? Will I hear the cleaner working if I’m near the pool? Thanks.
Hello, Kimberly! Thank you very much for your question! There is no official information on Dolphin pool cleaners’ noise level. However, many users state they work pretty quietly. You will not hear it working or be disturbed by the bot.
Hi! I use Pentair WhisperFlo 011519 pump for steady water flow in my inground pool. It costs me about $20 per month, but I’m afraid an additional robotic pool cleaner may greatly raise this sum. Will Dolphin usage cost me a lot together with the pump? Thank you!
Hello, Bob! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphin robots described in this review work independently from pool pump systems. According to users’ reviews, a robotic cleaner costs several bucks per month, so it shouldn’t significantly increase your electricity bills.
What is the material of the cleaning scrubbers of the bots? Is it scratch-safe for all pool cover materials? Thanks for your answer.
Hi, May! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphins’ scrubbers are all made of soft rubber-style material. It’s soft and extremely gentle to the pool surface, but its malleable structure allows for catching all dirt pieces. Brushes will not leave scratches or damage your pool in any other ways.
Hi! Do Dolphins anyhow collect debris on the water surface like floating leaves? From you comparison I understood it like only bottom cleaning.
Hi, Barney! Thank you very much for your question! These Dolphin models clean bottom, walls and waterline (in some modifications). Unfortuately, the surface debris cleaning is not provided here. However, you can additionally purchase a skimmer that will help you collect large debris within several minutes.
We have a 14×30 freeform fiberglass pool which has a narrow finger ledge that’s a couple inches side and runs around most of the pool. Which model might be able to handle getting to the waterline above this ledge? Also, we have an 18″ deep splash pad; which model does best with steps?
Hi, Dory! Thank you very much for your question! Dolphin robotic pool cleaners are equipped with quite wide and rigid tracks+rollers to overcome a two-inch obstacle. That’s why you can consider any Dolphin that supports waterline cleaning (like Sigma or Triton). Splash pad may become a more substantial issue. Dolphin Sigma with triple motor system is a nice option in such a case. Hope you’ll find this info helpful. We will also be pleased to hear other readers’ experience if anyone has some.
What type of filter does not require cleaning every time?
Hello Jenny! Thank you for your question. Unfortunately, all types of filters in pool cleaners require cleaning after each cleaning cycle. Whether you have a cartridge, bag, ultra-fine, or fine filter, all collected debris and dirt should be removed. Otherwise, the efficiency of pool cleaners will significantly decrease. I suggest top-load filters because of their easy removal (Nautilus, Triton models). All dirt and debris are removed only with a garden hose without chemicals or pressure.
As I understand, the cleaning cycle is mostly 2-3 hours for all Dolphins. My family or dog swims at any time of the day; without a schedule, I can’t stop them from enjoying the summer. What will happen if I swim in the pool during cleaning?
Hello Marisa! Thank you for your interest in Dolphin pool cleaners. Swimming while any electrical devices are in operation, is forbidden for safety reasons. I suggest performing cleaning at night if you can’t schedule your daytime.