When choosing an efficient robotic pool cleaner, the Dolphin E10 vs Dolphin Nautilus CC are two standout models that cater to different pool types and cleaning requirements. Both are built by Maytronics, a brand known for producing durable and intelligent robotic pool cleaners, yet each model delivers a distinct level of cleaning performance, filtration, and coverage. This article delivers a deep comparison to determine which unit provides better value, performance, and usability for your pool setup.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin E10 vs Dolphin Nautilus CC
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Design Comparison
The Dolphin E10 is compact and built for above-ground pools up to 30 feet. It weighs just 13.8 pounds, making it lightweight enough for quick removal and storage. The ergonomic top handle and compact chassis make the E10 ideal for users who prioritize convenience and simplicity. The 40-foot cable offers adequate reach for round or oval-shaped above-ground pools, though it lacks a swivel mechanism, which can sometimes result in tangling during extended use.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC is also compact and has the same weight of 13.8 pounds, but it’s tailored for in-ground pools up to 35 feet. Its longer 50-foot cable allows it to cover more area, especially in rectangular or deeper pools. While it also lacks a swivel, its extended range is beneficial for users with larger layouts. Although both cleaners are similarly portable, the Nautilus CC’s structure is slightly more robust to handle the demands of in-ground pool surfaces, including walls.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC
With a longer cable and compatibility with in-ground pools, the Nautilus CC offers more flexibility for a wider variety of pool designs.
Cleaning Performance Comparison
The Dolphin E10 delivers fast and efficient cleaning strictly for the pool floor. Its active scrubbing brush rotates independently to dislodge debris, algae, and dirt before suctioning it into the filter system. With a suction rate of 4,000 GPH and a 1.5-hour cycle time, it performs best in pools with moderate debris where wall cleaning isn’t required.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC, while sharing the same suction capacity, expands cleaning coverage to include both the floor and walls. This vertical cleaning allows it to scrub higher up the pool surface where biofilm and algae commonly develop. Its 2-hour cycle time allows for comprehensive coverage, although it does not perform full waterline scrubbing. For users with in-ground pools that require more than just floor maintenance, the Nautilus CC offers a clear performance advantage.
Filtration also differs. The E10 has a top-loading cartridge, allowing easy access and cleaning. The Nautilus CC’s bottom-load filter design can be less convenient since users must flip the unit to access and rinse the filter. While both filters handle fine debris, the top-access design of the E10 is notably easier for day-to-day maintenance.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC
With wall-cleaning capability and longer cycle coverage, the Nautilus CC outperforms the E10 in comprehensive cleaning, despite its less convenient filter access.
Feature Comparison
Both the E10 and Nautilus CC run on CleverClean™ scanning technology, a smart algorithm that creates efficient cleaning paths and reduces overlap. Each unit navigates its environment using onboard sensors to ensure it avoids obstacles and completes cycles effectively.
Neither cleaner includes Wi-Fi or mobile app integration. There are no scheduling features or remote controls. Both units are plug-and-play, starting their cycle automatically once powered on. The control units are simple and intuitive, featuring a basic power button interface.
Where the Dolphin E10 wins is in ease of use. Its top-loading cartridge filter is straightforward to clean and reinstall. The Nautilus CC, although equally intelligent in navigation, requires more effort for maintenance due to the bottom-access filter. Additionally, the E10’s shorter cycle time may be preferable for users wanting faster, frequent cleanings in pools with low to moderate debris levels.
Winner: Tie
The E10 excels in ease of maintenance and simplicity, while the Nautilus CC delivers broader coverage and similar smart navigation performance.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin E10
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Nautilus CC
Conclusion
Choose the Dolphin E10 if you want a budget-friendly, lightweight pool robot for your above-ground pool. It excels in floor cleaning, is incredibly easy to manage, and provides effective cleaning cycles for regular debris. It’s the ideal choice for users with smaller pools who prioritize speed and simplicity over full coverage.
Choose the Dolphin Nautilus CC if you need a cleaner that can handle both the floor and walls of your in-ground pool. Its added reach, longer cable, and wall-climbing ability make it more suitable for users with rectangular or deeper pools that require vertical cleaning to maintain clear surfaces.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC
While both models deliver great performance in their respective categories, the Dolphin Nautilus CC offers broader cleaning coverage and greater adaptability across a wider range of pool sizes and structures. With floor and wall cleaning capability and a longer cable, it stands as the more versatile and comprehensive cleaning solution.