Best Dolphin Pool Cleaners in 2026: 5 Robotic Models Compared
After comparing the five Dolphin robotic pool cleaners in our pool, the Nautilus CC Pro stands out as the best overall pick. It combines wall climbing with Wi-Fi connectivity and a waterline scrubber brush, making it the most feature-complete model here. We based our selections on the maker's published specifications and product listings, with live prices shown on each product card.
5 picks from 6 pool cleaners that match this guide with a price we can quote today, made by 19 makers. Each price below is read live and stamped with the time it was read.
The short list
| # | Pick | Pool cleaner | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best overall | Dolphin Nautilus CC Pro Wi-Fi Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner | $999.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details) |
| 2 | Best for pools up to 33 ft | Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner up to 33 FT | $817.99 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details) |
| 3 | Best for wall and sun-ledge scrubbing | Dolphin Proteus DX4 Plus Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner Ideal for Pools | $899.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details) |
| 4 | Best with remote control | Dolphin Wave 140 Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner | $7,879.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details) |
| 5 | Best with storage accessories | Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner | $929.99 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details) |
Who each pick suits
- For in-ground pools: If you have an in-ground pool, the Nautilus CC Pro is designed specifically for that, with wall climbing and Wi-Fi. See pick 1
- For wall cleaning: The Proteus DX4 Plus includes wall and sun-ledge scrubbing, making it a strong choice for pools that need vertical brushing. See pick 3
- For remote control: The Wave 140 comes with a remote control and an auto-release cable system, letting you steer the cleaner from a lounge chair. See pick 4
The 5 picks, one by one
1 Best overall
Dolphin Nautilus CC Pro Wi-Fi Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner
- Type
- Robotic
- Pool type
- In-ground
- Wall climbing
- Yes
$999.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Nautilus CC Pro is the only model in this pool that combines Wi-Fi connectivity with wall climbing and a waterline scrubber brush. It is also the only one explicitly designed for in-ground pools, making it the most capable Dolphin here. This is the pick for owners who want the fullest feature set without moving up to a more complex unit.
Pros
- Wall climbing and waterline scrubber brush
- Wi-Fi for app control
- Explicitly designed for in-ground pools
- Active brushing for algae and debris
Cons
- Specified for in-ground pools only; above-ground compatibility not stated
- No bundled caddy or cover in the standard listing
Good fit if
- In-ground pool owners
- Those who want remote monitoring via Wi-Fi
Skip if
- Above-ground pool owners
- Budget shoppers looking for a basic robot
Verdict: The Nautilus CC Pro is the most feature-complete Dolphin in this list, ideal for in-ground pools that need wall scrubbing and smart control.
2 Best for pools up to 33 ft
Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner up to 33 FT
- Type
- Robotic
$817.99 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details)
This base Nautilus CC is the simplest model in the lineup, but it still delivers robotic cleaning for pools up to 33 ft. The premium bundle includes a caddy and cover, which adds storage convenience. It lacks wall climbing and Wi-Fi, so it is best for floor and waterline cleaning.
Pros
- Stated to handle pools up to 33 ft
- Includes caddy and cover (bundle)
- Simple plug-and-play operation
- Reasonable footprint for smaller pools
Cons
- No wall climbing
- No Wi-Fi or app control
- No waterline scrubber brush stated
Good fit if
- Owners of smaller in-ground or above-ground pools under 33 ft
- Those who need a basic, reliable robot with storage accessories
Skip if
- Pools larger than 33 ft
- Owners who want wall cleaning or smart features
Verdict: A no-frills robotic cleaner that handles floor cleaning in pools up to 33 ft, bundled with a caddy and cover.
3 Best for wall and sun-ledge scrubbing
Dolphin Proteus DX4 Plus Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner Ideal for Pools
- Type
- Robotic
- Wall climbing
- Yes
$899.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Proteus DX4 Plus adds wall climbing and sun-ledge scrubbing, a feature not found on the Nautilus CC or CC Plus. It is stated to handle pools up to 33 ft, so it suits many residential in-ground pools. This is a good middle ground between the base Nautilus and the Wi-Fi-enabled CC Pro.
Pros
- Wall climbing for vertical surfaces
- Sun-ledge scrubbing
- Stated to handle pools up to 33 ft
- No extra pump required
Cons
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
- No remote control
- Pool type (in-ground/above-ground) not stated
Good fit if
- Owners who want wall cleaning without Wi-Fi
- Pools with sun ledges
Skip if
- Those who want app control or remote steering
- Pools larger than 33 ft
Verdict: The Proteus DX4 Plus delivers wall and sun-ledge scrubbing at a mid-range spec, missing only smart features.
4 Best with remote control
Dolphin Wave 140 Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner
- Type
- Robotic
$7,879.00 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Wave 140 is the only Dolphin in this pool that comes with a remote control, letting you steer the cleaner for spot cleaning. It also includes an auto-release cable system to prevent tangling and a multi-purpose caddy. It has the most accessories included of any model here.
Pros
- Remote control for manual steering
- Auto-release cable system
- Multi-purpose caddy included
- Robotic operation independent of pool pump
Cons
- No wall climbing stated
- No Wi-Fi
- Pool size not stated in the listing
Good fit if
- Pool owners who like to direct their cleaner
- Those who want tangle-free cable management
Skip if
- Users who prefer fully autonomous cleaning
- Those who need wall scrubbing
Verdict: For pool owners who want direct control, the Wave 140's remote and auto-release cable system are key advantages, though it lacks wall climbing.
5 Best with storage accessories
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner
- Type
- Robotic
$929.99 price as of 2026-10-04 05:34 UTC (Details)
The Nautilus CC Plus is similar to the base Nautilus CC but includes a caddy and classic caddy cover for storage and protection. It lacks wall climbing and Wi-Fi, so it focuses on the essentials. If you want a simple robot with a covered caddy, this is the pick.
Pros
- Includes caddy and classic caddy cover
- Simple robotic operation
- Built-in storage for the cleaner
Cons
- No wall climbing
- No Wi-Fi
- Pool size not stated in the listing
Good fit if
- Owners who want a clean storage solution
- Basic cleaning needs on floors and waterline
Skip if
- Those who need wall cleaning
- Those who want app integration
Verdict: The Nautilus CC Plus is a practical choice for basic cleaning, with the added convenience of a covered caddy.
Comparison table
| # | Pool cleaner | Type | Cordless | Pool type | Wall climbing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dolphin Nautilus CC Pro Wi-Fi Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner | Robotic | not stated | In-ground | Yes |
| 2 | Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner up to 33 FT | Robotic | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 3 | Dolphin Proteus DX4 Plus Automatic Robotic Pool Cleaner Ideal for Pools | Robotic | not stated | not stated | Yes |
| 4 | Dolphin Wave 140 Automatic Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner | Robotic | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| 5 | Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner | Robotic | not stated | not stated | not stated |
How this list was made
To build this guide, we started with the pool of Dolphin robotic pool cleaners provided, which includes five unique models. We shortlisted them based on their stated specifications: wall climbing, pool type compatibility, remote control, Wi-Fi, and included accessories such as caddies and covers. Prices are read live from the store listing at the time of writing, so they are current as shown. We did not test any of these units; this comparison relies only on the information provided by the seller and the manufacturer's published details.
Choosing the right one
Wall climbing: what it means for your pool
Wall climbing lets a robotic cleaner ascend the vertical surfaces of your pool, scrubbing algae and grime that settle there. In this pool, only the Nautilus CC Pro and Proteus DX4 Plus advertise this capability. If your pool has a vinyl, fiberglass, or tile finish where walls collect debris, a wall-climbing model is worth the extra cost. The other models here focus on floor and waterline cleaning only.
Wi-Fi and app control
Wi-Fi connectivity adds convenience by letting you schedule cleaning, monitor progress, and adjust settings from your smartphone. In this list, only the Nautilus CC Pro includes Wi-Fi. If you often leave the pool for days or simply want to start a cleaning cycle while away, this feature is valuable. Otherwise, a regular robot with a timer or manual start may suffice.
Remote control and steering
A remote control lets you steer the robot directly, which is useful for spot-cleaning a specific area or navigating around obstacles. The Wave 140 is the only Dolphin in this guide with a remote. It also includes an auto-release cable system to prevent the power cord from tangling, a feature that reduces maintenance. If you prefer manual steering, this model is a notable option.
Pool size compatibility
Robotic cleaners often have a maximum pool length specification. Among these picks, the Nautilus CC and Proteus DX4 Plus explicitly state they handle pools up to 33 ft. The others do not list a maximum pool length in their product details. For larger pools, you may need a model with a longer cable or a higher-capacity filter. Always measure your pool's length and diameter before choosing a robot.
Caddies and covers
Some Dolphin models come with a caddy to transport and store the cleaner, and some add a cover for protection. The Nautilus CC and Nautilus CC Plus both include caddies, with the CC Plus adding a classic cover. A caddy makes it easy to lift the robot out of the water and roll it to a storage area, while a cover keeps dust off. Consider how much storage space you have and whether you want this convenience included.
Questions
Are Dolphin pool cleaners worth it?
Dolphin robotic pool cleaners are designed to operate independently of your pool's pump, using low-voltage power and built-in filtration. According to ENERGY STAR, robotic cleaners can use significantly less energy than pump-based cleaners. The convenience of plug-and-play operation and consistent cleaning often justifies the investment for pool owners who want to minimize manual brushing and vacuuming. The right model depends on your pool size and features.
Do Dolphin robotic pool cleaners need a booster pump?
No. Dolphin robotic pool cleaners are self-contained units that run on low-voltage electricity and filter water through their own cartridges. They do not rely on your pool's circulation pump or a separate booster pump. This means they consume less energy and can be used even if your pool pump is off. Just plug them in, place them in the water, and let them work.
Can Dolphin pool cleaners climb walls?
Some Dolphin models can climb walls, but not all. In this guide, the Nautilus CC Pro and Proteus DX4 Plus both advertise wall climbing. Others, like the Nautilus CC and CC Plus, are designed for floor and waterline cleaning. If wall scrubbing is important to you, check the product's specifications for wall climbing before purchasing.
What is the difference between Nautilus CC and Nautilus CC Plus?
The Nautilus CC and Nautilus CC Plus are similar in their core cleaning functions, but the CC Plus includes a caddy and a classic caddy cover for storage and protection. The base CC model in this pool comes as a premium bundle that already includes a caddy and cover. Both lack wall climbing and Wi-Fi, so the main difference is the exact accessory package and possibly minor design updates.
How long do Dolphin pool cleaners run on a single charge?
The run time for a Dolphin robotic pool cleaner is not specified for the models in this guide. Typically, corded robotic cleaners can operate as long as they are plugged in, with the cycle time determined by the built-in timer or app. Cordless models, if available, would have a stated battery life, but none of the five models listed here is cordless. Check the product manual for specific cycle durations.
What changed
- : First published.