In the premium tier of robotic pool cleaners, two standout models command attention among discerning pool owners: the Dolphin M400 vs Dolphin Premier. Both built by Maytronics, these high-performance machines are engineered to clean in-ground pools up to 50 feet, offering advanced navigation, multi-surface scrubbing, and robust filtration. However, each model brings unique technologies, cleaning logic, and filtration flexibility that cater to different needs and priorities.
In this detailed comparison, we dissect every critical feature of the Dolphin M400 and Dolphin Premier—from cleaning performance and navigation to smart controls and filtration systems—so you can confidently choose the best robotic cleaner for your pool’s demands.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin M400 vs Dolphin Premier
Design Comparison
The Dolphin M400 boasts a robust, angular body designed for intense pool cleaning demands. Weighing 25 pounds, it is slightly heavier than most models in its class but offers exceptional durability and stability, particularly on vertical surfaces. Its PowerStream mobility system enhances grip while climbing walls and navigating slopes, making it particularly effective in deep pools or those with irregular contours. The unit features a top-loading multi-layer filter basket, which makes debris disposal more efficient and less messy.
The Dolphin Premier, while weighing a lighter 22 pounds, emphasizes modularity over digital control. It features a swappable filter system, allowing users to choose between ultra-fine cartridges, a standard filter, or a large leaf bag. This design provides a high degree of adaptability for varying debris types, though it requires manual selection of the appropriate filter before each session. The Premier maintains a compact footprint and includes sturdy rubber tracks to help it cling to vertical surfaces with reliability.
Winner: Dolphin M400
With superior wall traction, advanced mobility, and integrated filter design, the M400 stands out as the more modern, high-end solution for long-term durability and ease of use.
Cleaning Performance Comparison
The Dolphin M400 utilizes dual active brushes that spin independently of its drive motor. This allows it to aggressively scrub algae, bacteria, and fine film from pool floors, walls, and the waterline. Its PowerStream technology uses multi-directional water jets to maintain traction during vertical climbs and to maximize cleaning path accuracy. With a suction rate of 4,500 GPH, it quickly collects all debris into its multi-layer filter basket, capturing both coarse and fine particles in one pass. Its intelligent navigation ensures full pool coverage with minimal overlap and efficient cycle completion in 2 to 2.5 hours.
In contrast, the Dolphin Premier uses dual standard brushes that are effective for routine dirt and debris but lack the additional agitation power of active brushes. The Premier’s standout feature is its filtration customization. You can choose a leaf bag for large debris like acorns and twigs or swap in an ultra-fine cartridge for fine dirt or pollen. It uses a fixed 3-hour cleaning cycle and covers all pool zones, including the waterline, with dependable performance. However, its navigation pattern is more basic and less adaptive compared to the M400’s smart pathing.
Winner: Dolphin M400
Its active brushes, advanced navigation, and multi-surface scrubbing deliver a superior clean with greater efficiency, especially for users with fine debris or algae-prone surfaces.
Feature Comparison
The Dolphin M400 includes full Wi-Fi connectivity and is operated via the MyDolphin™ Plus App, which allows for start/stop control, cleaning scheduling, mode selection, and status monitoring. The app also supports firmware updates and notifications, giving users complete control from anywhere. Additionally, the M400 comes with built-in PowerStream mobility and gyroscopic navigation, which helps it maintain orientation and stability during cleaning on complex pool shapes.
The Dolphin Premier relies on a manual power supply with a built-in weekly timer, which can be used to schedule cleanings on a fixed basis. However, it lacks Wi-Fi, mobile control, or any app integration. While its modular filter system offers excellent customization, it requires hands-on configuration each time the pool’s debris type changes. There’s no support for remote diagnostics or real-time alerts, which limits automation.
Winner: Dolphin M400
Its seamless integration with the MyDolphin™ Plus App, combined with intelligent navigation and real-time scheduling, makes the M400 the smarter, more autonomous choice.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin M400
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Premier
Conclusion
Choose the Dolphin M400 if you want an advanced, intelligent robotic pool cleaner with active brushing, smart mapping, app connectivity, and consistently efficient performance across all pool surfaces. It’s ideal for pool owners who prefer full automation, remote control, and high-end cleaning results.
Choose the Dolphin Premier if you need a modular filtration system that lets you customize your cleaning tool for different types of debris, and you prefer simple, non-app-based operation. It’s a great fit for pools that vary seasonally in debris type and where smart features are not a priority.
Overall Winner: Dolphin M400
With its advanced mobility, intelligent control system, active brushes, and superior cleaning logic, the Dolphin M400 delivers a comprehensive and future-ready robotic pool cleaning experience that outpaces the Premier in almost every category.