For pool owners seeking an intelligent, automated way to keep their swimming pool crystal clean, few brands rival the reputation of Maytronics’ Dolphin line. Among the brand’s most compelling mid-tier robotic pool cleaners are the Dolphin Active 20 vs Dolphin Active 30. Both models offer strong value, excellent filtration, wall-climbing capability, and smart navigation systems tailored for in-ground pools.
Yet, while they may look alike and share many core technologies, key differences in filtration, cable design, and convenience features set them apart. In this comprehensive side-by-side comparison, we dive deep into every specification that matters—helping you determine whether the Active 20 or Active 30 is the right robotic pool cleaner for your needs.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin Active 20 vs Dolphin Dolphin Active 30
Design and Portability
Both the Dolphin Active 20 and Active 30 feature a modern, compact chassis built for residential pool maintenance. At 16.5 pounds, these units are light enough for one-handed lifting, and their ergonomic top handles allow for easy deployment and retrieval from the pool. The outer shell is constructed from high-impact plastic, UV-resistant and corrosion-proof, to withstand long-term exposure to pool chemicals and the elements.
While the design is functionally identical between the two models, the Active 30 is distinguished by its more premium finish and slightly upgraded cable handling system, which improves maneuverability during extended cleaning cycles.
Winner: Dolphin Active 30
Though both models are similar in weight and ease of use, the Active 30 edges forward with better cable integration and aesthetic detailing.
Cleaning Coverage and Pool Size Compatibility
The Dolphin Active 20 is built to clean in-ground pools up to 33 feet, handling both the floor and the walls. Its scrubbing system climbs up vertical surfaces effectively and ensures thorough debris removal across horizontal and inclined surfaces. However, it does not clean the waterline, meaning you’ll need to manually brush or wipe that area from time to time.
The Active 30 expands on this with compatibility for pools up to 50 feet in length and adds waterline cleaning capability. This allows it to climb all the way up the tile line and scrub away algae or grime that builds up at the surface—a notoriously difficult area to clean manually.
Winner: Dolphin Active 30
With waterline cleaning and larger pool coverage, the Active 30 offers more complete cleaning for medium to large in-ground pools.
Both models are equipped with CleverClean™ navigation, which intelligently maps the pool’s layout using internal algorithms to determine the most efficient cleaning route. These robots avoid obstacles, redirect after collisions, and ensure that every inch of the pool floor and walls is cleaned within a 2-hour cycle.
Although the navigation technology is technically identical between the two, the Active 30 benefits from a longer cable and swivel support, giving it greater flexibility to follow its path without interruptions or tangles—especially important for pools with irregular shapes.
Winner: Dolphin Active 30
Enhanced cable length and swivel support give the Active 30 an operational edge during navigation-heavy tasks.
Brush System and Scrubbing Performance
Both the Active 20 and Active 30 come with dual scrubbing brushes—positioned at the front and rear of the unit. These brushes rotate at a higher RPM than the robot’s travel speed, enabling them to dislodge stubborn debris, algae, and grime from all pool surfaces.
This dual-brush setup allows for stronger agitation and more effective deep cleaning, especially on textured tile, vinyl, or gunite surfaces. Whether you’re cleaning after a storm or during spring startup, these robots are more than capable of delivering a spotless pool base.
Winner: Tie
Both units offer equally strong brushing systems, delivering aggressive scrubbing power on all compatible surfaces.
Filtration System and Debris Handling
Here is where the Active 30 clearly pulls ahead. While the Active 20 uses a top-load filter cartridge system that accepts either fine or ultra-fine filters, it can only use one filter type at a time. The process of switching filters can be tedious for pool owners dealing with varying debris sizes.
In contrast, the Active 30 comes standard with a multi-layer filtration basket that traps large and small debris simultaneously. This dual-layer system simplifies maintenance while ensuring that nothing from leaves to dust escapes its grasp. It reduces the frequency of filter rinsing and helps maintain crystal-clear water in a single pass.
Winner: Dolphin Active 30
The multi-layer filtration system provides superior convenience and performance, especially in environments with mixed debris.
Cable Design and Tangling Resistance
The Active 20 uses a 50-foot non-swivel cable, which can sometimes tangle during complex cleaning patterns, especially in oval or kidney-shaped pools. The absence of a swivel can lead to coiling over time, requiring manual untangling between sessions.
The Active 30 eliminates this frustration with a 60-foot swivel cable, which automatically prevents twists and ensures uninterrupted cleaning. This is particularly important for larger pools or those with integrated features like benches and built-in steps.
Winner: Dolphin Active 30
The swivel cable provides smoother operation, reduced maintenance, and better long-term usability.
Scheduling and Automation Features
The Active 20 does not support a built-in weekly scheduler, meaning users must manually start the cleaning process with each use. This is fine for occasional maintenance but limits convenience for daily or semi-weekly operation.
The Active 30, however, includes a built-in weekly timer, allowing users to schedule cleaning cycles in advance—daily, every other day, or every three days. While there is no mobile app or Wi-Fi connectivity, the timer significantly enhances hands-free operation for consistent pool care.
Winner: Dolphin Active 30
With automated scheduling capabilities, the Active 30 offers true set-it-and-forget-it cleaning.
Energy Efficiency and Runtime
Both models operate on low-voltage DC motors and complete their cleaning routines in approximately 2 hours. Their power consumption is extremely low, and neither unit requires connection to the pool’s pump or filtration system. This plug-and-play design allows them to run independently, keeping operating costs minimal.
Energy usage between the Active 20 and 30 is nearly identical, despite the added features in the Active 30. This efficiency makes either model an eco-conscious alternative to manual vacuuming or suction-side cleaners.
Winner: Tie
Equal runtime and power efficiency make both units cost-effective options for modern pool care.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Active 20
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Dolphin Active 30
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Active 20 if you want a cost-effective robotic pool cleaner that delivers reliable floor and wall cleaning with strong scrubbing performance. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized pools and provides all the essentials for maintaining clear water with minimal manual labor.
Choose Dolphin Active 30 if you’re looking for a smarter, more capable robotic cleaner with waterline scrubbing, dual-layer filtration, and a swivel cable that makes long-term maintenance easier. Its built-in scheduling functionality and enhanced mobility make it an outstanding choice for pool owners who want the most convenience and cleaning power in this segment.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Active 30
With superior filtration, larger pool compatibility, waterline cleaning, and smart scheduling, the Dolphin Active 30 is the more versatile and powerful robotic pool cleaner—offering a better long-term value for homeowners seeking fully automated pool care.