For pool owners looking for powerful, reliable, and intelligent cleaning solutions, Maytronics offers two compelling models: the Dolphin M400 vs Dolphin S200. Both are part of the brand’s advanced robotic pool cleaner lineup and deliver high-end features, but they cater to different needs and budgets. Designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet, these robotic cleaners offer exceptional scrubbing, efficient filtration, and smart navigation. However, the performance and feature differences between them can significantly impact which model is better suited for your pool.
In this side-by-side breakdown, we explore every essential element—from cleaning coverage and brush system to filtration, mobility, and smart connectivity—to help you choose the best robotic pool cleaner between the Dolphin M400 and S200.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin M400 vs Dolphin S200
Design Comparison
The Dolphin M400 is built with rugged durability and smart engineering in mind. It weighs 25 pounds, making it one of the heavier robotic cleaners in Maytronics’ portfolio, but this weight contributes to its excellent stability on vertical walls. The M400 is equipped with PowerStream mobility, a system that uses multi-directional jets to help maintain grip and improve maneuverability, especially on angled walls and deep pools. It features a top-loading multi-layer filter basket, designed for easy access and versatile debris capture—from fine particles to leaves.
By contrast, the Dolphin S200 is lighter at just 16.5 pounds, making it easier to handle and remove from the pool. Its design is more compact and user-friendly, featuring a top-access filter basket for easy cleaning. While it lacks PowerStream mobility, it still navigates pool surfaces well and can handle standard pool layouts. However, the S200’s frame and movement system are not as advanced, particularly in complex pool environments with steps or sharp transitions.
Winner: Dolphin M400
The M400’s robust build and PowerStream-enhanced navigation make it better suited for comprehensive pool coverage and demanding cleaning conditions.
Cleaning Performance Comparison
The Dolphin M400 delivers full 3-zone cleaning, targeting the pool floor, walls, and waterline with high accuracy. It uses dual active brushes that rotate independently of the drive system, allowing for thorough scrubbing of algae, fine sediment, and scale. With a strong 4,500 GPH suction rate and a multi-layer filtration system, it captures both large debris and ultra-fine particles efficiently in one cleaning cycle. The M400 runs on 2- or 2.5-hour cleaning modes, providing flexibility and thorough results without repeated runs.
The Dolphin S200 also includes an active brush, but only one, meaning it delivers less aggressive scrubbing than the M400. It covers the pool floor and walls, but does not clean the waterline, a limitation for pools that accumulate residue at the tile level. The S200 features a fine top-load basket, which performs well for routine cleaning but lacks the layered structure of the M400’s filtration system. Its standard 2-hour cleaning cycle offers solid daily performance but isn’t ideal for heavily soiled or large pools.
Winner: Dolphin M400
The M400’s dual brushes, full coverage (including waterline), and superior filtration give it a clear advantage in comprehensive cleaning performance.
Feature Comparison
The M400 is a smart pool cleaner with full Wi-Fi connectivity, accessible via the MyDolphin™ Plus App. This app enables users to schedule cleanings, initiate cleaning sessions remotely, monitor performance, and receive maintenance updates. Additionally, the M400’s PowerStream mobility system enhances its ability to track pool contours and maintain consistent orientation for optimal coverage. These smart integrations make the M400 an autonomous, hands-off solution for daily maintenance.
The S200 does not offer any wireless connectivity or app support. It includes a basic weekly timer on its power supply, allowing scheduled cleans, but all interactions must be handled manually. This lack of smart control makes it less appealing for tech-savvy users or those who want to automate pool care remotely. Additionally, the S200’s navigation logic is more rudimentary, lacking adaptive mapping or dynamic course correction.
Winner: Dolphin M400
With full app control, real-time scheduling, and intelligent mobility, the M400 far exceeds the S200 in automation and smart feature integration.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin M400
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin S200
Conclusion
Choose the Dolphin M400 if you want a premium, fully automated cleaning experience with advanced navigation, waterline scrubbing, dual active brushes, and smart connectivity. It’s ideal for larger or more complex pools where intelligent cleaning and hands-off operation are essential.
Choose the Dolphin S200 if you need a lightweight, reliable robotic pool cleaner for regular maintenance in a standard in-ground pool without the need for waterline cleaning or smart features. It’s a great value option for users who prioritize ease of use and affordability.
Overall Winner: Dolphin M400
With its intelligent mobility, dual active brushes, app-enabled scheduling, and full coverage including the waterline, the Dolphin M400 offers the most complete and capable robotic pool cleaning experience—perfect for those who demand superior results with minimal effort.