When selecting a robotic pool cleaner for an above-ground or small in-ground pool, two names often dominate the discussion—Dolphin Active 10 vs Dolphin Escape. Both models are engineered by Maytronics and designed for high performance in compact bodies, delivering excellent cleaning results for pool owners who want smart, low-maintenance, plug-and-play solutions.
Despite their similarities in appearance and purpose, the Dolphin Active 10 and Dolphin Escape differ in key areas such as filter type, navigation features, mobility systems, and cleaning efficiency. This detailed comparison explores every aspect of both units to determine which model offers better overall value and performance.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin Active 10 vs Dolphin Dolphin Escape
Pool Type Compatibility and Cleaning Coverage
Both the Dolphin Active 10 and Dolphin Escape are tailored for above-ground pools or small in-ground pools up to 30 feet in length. They are designed to clean only the floor of the pool, which is typically where most debris settles. These models do not climb walls or scrub the waterline, keeping them light, efficient, and cost-effective for their target audience.
While the Active 10 performs well in round, oval, and rectangular pools with flat bottoms, the Escape’s advanced traction system gives it an edge in slightly more challenging pool shapes, including those with mild slopes or textured surfaces.
Winner: Dolphin Escape
With more adaptable traction from its track-based mobility system, the Escape offers more consistent performance across varied pool floors.
The Dolphin Active 10 uses CleverClean™ Technology, a basic smart navigation system that scans the pool floor and follows a semi-random cleaning pattern. It avoids obstacles and ensures full floor coverage in a typical 1.5-hour cycle, but it lacks the advanced responsiveness of higher-end mapping systems.
The Dolphin Escape steps ahead with SmartNav™ 2.0, a more advanced navigation system that uses sensors to create a precise cleaning route. It minimizes wasted motion and ensures more uniform cleaning, even in irregularly shaped pools or areas with light obstacles.
Winner: Dolphin Escape
With superior scanning and route optimization, the Escape delivers a more efficient and calculated cleaning process.
Brush System and Scrubbing Performance
The Active 10 is fitted with a single active front brush that spins rapidly to scrub dirt and loosen debris from the pool floor. It does a reliable job on smooth surfaces, especially in vinyl and fiberglass-lined pools.
In comparison, the Dolphin Escape is equipped with a HyperBrush™ active scrubber—a fast-rotating, rubberized brush designed to tackle stubborn contaminants like algae, biofilm, and fine sediment. The enhanced scrubbing power is especially beneficial for rougher pool surfaces or pools exposed to frequent organic debris.
Winner: Dolphin Escape
The HyperBrush system offers more aggressive scrubbing capability, making the Escape more effective in challenging cleaning scenarios.
Filtration System and Debris Handling
Both robots use top-loading filters, allowing easy access and rinsing after each cleaning session. The Active 10 includes a standard fine filter basket, capable of capturing small to medium debris such as leaves, dirt, and insects. It’s also compatible with ultra-fine filter upgrades for better performance in dusty environments.
The Escape is designed with an oversized filter cartridge, which provides more internal space for debris collection. The larger basket size means it can handle more debris per cycle, reducing the need to empty the filter as frequently. The filtration material is also fine enough to trap smaller particles more effectively in its standard configuration.
Winner: Dolphin Escape
With a larger debris capacity and better filtration performance out of the box, the Escape stands out in filtration efficiency.
Mobility System and Floor Tracking
The Active 10 moves using standard wheels, which are suitable for flat-bottomed above-ground pools. While they offer decent traction, their performance may decrease in textured or uneven surfaces, especially if algae buildup reduces grip.
The Escape uses continuous rubber tracks instead of wheels. This mobility system provides greater surface contact, increased grip, and superior maneuverability. The tracks help maintain consistent cleaning pressure across the pool floor, even on slick or curved surfaces.
Winner: Dolphin Escape
Thanks to its track-based mobility, the Escape navigates more confidently and cleans more uniformly than the wheel-based Active 10.
Cycle Time and Energy Efficiency
Both models feature a 1.5-hour cleaning cycle, optimized for fast, energy-efficient operation. They are plug-and-play units that do not require booster pumps or pool plumbing integration, making them highly efficient and easy to operate.
Energy consumption is low for both robots, as they run on internal 24V motors designed for minimal power draw. Each unit performs its cycle independently and shuts off automatically when the cleaning session ends.
Winner: Tie
Both models are equally efficient in energy consumption and cycle duration, delivering value with every session.
Control, Connectivity, and Automation
The Dolphin Active 10 and Dolphin Escape are both designed for simplicity. Neither model offers Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth app control, or a weekly scheduler. Control is strictly manual—press the power button on the included power supply unit to start a cleaning session.
While this simplicity appeals to users who want a reliable, low-maintenance solution, it does limit convenience for those looking for programmable automation.
Winner: Tie
Neither unit includes advanced control options; both focus on manual simplicity for ease of use.
Weight, Handling, and Maintenance
At 13.8 lbs, the Active 10 is extremely lightweight and easy to manage. Its compact frame and ergonomic handle make it simple to deploy and retrieve from the pool, even for older users or those with limited strength.
The Escape, weighing approximately 14 lbs, is similarly lightweight. Its integrated handle and top-load design make filter removal and maintenance straightforward. The slightly heavier build is due to the track system, which adds durability without compromising portability.
Winner: Tie
Both models are light, compact, and user-friendly, making them easy to manage during daily use.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Active 10
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Dolphin Escape
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Active 10 if you want a lightweight, cost-effective robotic cleaner that handles basic floor cleaning for small above-ground pools with reliable navigation and solid performance. It’s a practical option for first-time buyers or those who want a no-frills solution that still delivers consistently clean results.
Choose Dolphin Escape if you’re looking for stronger scrubbing power, smarter navigation, and a more advanced mobility system that adapts better to textured or uneven pool floors. With its HyperBrush technology and track-based movement, the Escape provides more thorough cleaning with fewer passes.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Escape
With its superior navigation, enhanced scrubbing system, larger filtration capacity, and better traction, the Dolphin Escape outperforms the Active 10 in every major category. For pool owners who want the best cleaning performance without stepping into premium pricing, the Escape offers outstanding value and reliability.