When searching for a high-performance robotic pool cleaner, two Maytronics models often dominate the conversation: the Dolphin Explorer E70 vs Dolphin Premier. Built for in-ground pools up to 50 feet, these machines deliver exceptional power, coverage, and cleaning precision. However, they cater to different preferences when it comes to smart functionality, filtration customization, and automation.
In this detailed head-to-head comparison, we analyze these two powerhouse models across all essential categories—from design and debris handling to connectivity and user convenience—so you can confidently choose the right one for your pool maintenance routine.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin Explorer E70 vs Dolphin Premier
Design Comparison
The Dolphin Explorer E70 features a modern and streamlined build that combines aesthetic polish with functional strength. Weighing 22 pounds, it’s manageable for most users and includes dual ergonomic handles for easy lifting. The top-loading multi-layer filter basket is simple to access and clean, while the 60-foot swivel cable ensures tangle-free operation throughout deep or irregularly shaped pools. Its durable wheels and sleek contours enhance maneuverability and climbing ability on vertical walls and waterlines.
The Dolphin Premier has a slightly bulkier frame but retains the same weight at 22 pounds. It’s designed to support modular filtration and rugged performance in diverse pool conditions. The standout feature here is its interchangeable filtration system, which allows users to switch between micro-cartridges, an oversized leaf bag, or an ultra-fine filter. This makes it adaptable to different debris types, but it also means users must choose and install the appropriate filter before each cycle. It also features a swivel cable to reduce cord tangling and includes sturdy wheels for stable navigation.
Winner: Dolphin Explorer E70
The E70’s cleaner aesthetic, ergonomic design, and all-in-one top-load basket make it easier to handle and maintain for day-to-day use, without filter swapping.
Cleaning Performance Comparison
The Explorer E70 is equipped with dual active brushes that rotate independently at high speed, delivering powerful agitation to dislodge algae, dirt, and stubborn grime from all pool surfaces. Its 4,500 GPH suction pulls debris efficiently into a multi-layer filter basket, which separates fine and coarse materials in a single cleaning session. What sets it apart is the IntelliScan™ system, which maps the pool for optimal route planning and ensures comprehensive coverage without overlap. Users can choose from multiple cleaning modes, including floor-only, wall-only, or full pool cycles, and select from 1.5, 2, or 2.5-hour durations.
The Dolphin Premier offers dependable cleaning with dual standard brushes that spin with the drive mechanism but do not rotate independently. These brushes provide sufficient cleaning for moderately soiled pools but aren’t as aggressive on algae or fine scaling. Its filtration flexibility allows it to capture everything from fine silt to leaves by changing the filter media, but no multi-layer option means you can only filter one type of debris per run. The Premier uses a fixed 3-hour cleaning cycle and relies on a more basic pathing system that follows an efficient yet non-adaptive cleaning pattern.
Winner: Dolphin Explorer E70
With stronger active brushing, adaptive navigation, multi-mode cleaning, and all-in-one filtration, the E70 delivers superior scrubbing, smarter coverage, and more debris versatility in every cycle.
Feature Comparison
The Explorer E70 is loaded with smart features, most notably its compatibility with the MyDolphin™ Plus App. This allows users to schedule cleanings, select custom cleaning modes and durations, monitor progress in real time, and receive maintenance alerts—all from a smartphone. IntelliScan™ mapping ensures that every inch of the pool is cleaned efficiently, reducing energy consumption and overlapping passes. The combination of app control and real-time route optimization makes the E70 one of the most autonomous and customizable cleaners on the market.
By contrast, the Premier lacks Wi-Fi or app connectivity. All scheduling and operation must be managed via the physical power supply. While it does include a basic weekly timer for repeated cycles, it does not offer smart scheduling, alerts, or remote control. There’s no mapping system onboard, so it simply follows a predefined route that works well for open layouts but may underperform in more complex pool shapes.
Winner: Dolphin Explorer E70
The E70 clearly leads in automation, user control, and smart integration—ideal for modern pool owners who want to control and optimize cleaning from anywhere.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Explorer E70
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Premier
Conclusion
Choose the Dolphin Explorer E70 if you want a smarter, more automated pool cleaning experience with active scrubbing, advanced mapping, customizable cycles, and full app control. It’s best for users who value convenience, flexibility, and high-end performance.
Choose the Dolphin Premier if you want robust, adaptable filtration and don’t mind managing cycles manually. It’s a good fit for pools with varying debris types and for users who prefer simplicity over digital control.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Explorer E70
With superior brush technology, customizable smart features, and all-in-one filtration that doesn’t compromise on performance, the Dolphin Explorer E70 stands as the more advanced and capable choice for homeowners seeking top-tier robotic cleaning automation.