When choosing a robotic pool cleaner that delivers reliable automation, powerful cleaning capabilities, and long-term efficiency, two standout models in the Dolphin lineup deserve serious consideration: the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus vs Dolphin S300. Both are advanced in-ground robotic pool cleaners manufactured by Maytronics, offering robust performance, smart navigation, and innovative design. Yet, each brings a unique set of features that may make it more suited to different types of users and pool environments.
In this comprehensive comparison, we dive deep into their core specifications, technologies, and real-world performance differences to determine which of these robotic cleaners truly earns a place at the top.
Contents
Differences Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus vs Dolphin S300
Cleaning Coverage and Pool Surface Reach
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi is engineered to handle in-ground pools up to 50 feet, with efficient coverage across the floor and walls. Using CleverClean navigation with a gyroscope, it scans the pool’s layout and follows a methodical cleaning path. This ensures minimal overlap and maximum debris removal, though it does not clean the waterline, which can leave behind visible scum or residue.
The Dolphin S300 expands its cleaning scope with full floor, wall, and waterline coverage. Powered by PowerStream navigation, it maintains constant grip and directional control as it climbs walls and scrubs along the waterline. This added reach makes a tangible difference in maintaining a fully polished pool surface.
Winner: Dolphin S300
With its inclusion of waterline cleaning and more versatile navigation, the S300 ensures a more thorough cleaning experience across all pool surfaces.
Filtration System and Debris Handling Efficiency
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi features a dual-layer top-load filtration system, which combines fine and ultra-fine cartridges. This setup effectively captures everything from coarse leaves to microscopic particles like pollen and algae. It’s one of the most effective filtering systems in its class for water clarity and maintenance.
The S300 also uses a top-loading filter basket, but it integrates fine and ultra-fine layers into a single, large-capacity unit. While its filtration performance is excellent, it may not separate debris as cleanly as the dual-cartridge system in the CC Plus WiFi, especially in pools with high amounts of ultra-fine sediment.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
The dedicated dual-cartridge setup offers better particle separation and fine debris capture, making it ideal for owners focused on water clarity.
Brush System and Scrubbing Power
Both robotic cleaners come equipped with dual active scrubbing brushes, which rotate faster than the movement of the unit. These brushes effectively break up algae, dirt, and debris stuck on the pool floor and walls.
The S300’s brush system works synergistically with its PowerStream mobility, providing better traction on vertical surfaces and improving contact at the waterline. While both scrub efficiently, the S300 has a slight edge due to its added waterline brushing.
Winner: Dolphin S300
Though both have excellent brushes, the S300’s ability to reach the waterline gives it a performance advantage in high-use or outdoor pools.
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi uses CleverClean scanning with a built-in gyroscope, which calculates the most efficient cleaning path. It avoids obstacles and ensures balanced coverage but may occasionally miss corners or awkward pool geometries without correction.
The Dolphin S300 takes a step forward with PowerStream navigation, which utilizes multi-directional water jets to maintain wall contact and ensure smoother directional changes. It allows the unit to maintain stability and better orientation when transitioning between surfaces.
Winner: Dolphin S300
Its improved wall grip and navigation responsiveness ensure more precise and agile movement across complex pool designs.
App Control and Automation
Both units are compatible with the MyDolphin Plus App, allowing users to start or stop cleaning, schedule weekly cleanings, and monitor system status from their smartphone. This app-based control transforms these cleaners into automated, low-maintenance solutions.
However, the S300 offers two cleaning modes via the app: a Quick Clean (1 hour) and a Standard Clean (2 hours). This flexibility makes it more adaptable to day-to-day cleaning needs, whether it’s a light refresh or a thorough scrub.
Winner: Dolphin S300
While both feature excellent app control, the inclusion of multiple cleaning modes gives the S300 a notable convenience edge.
Weight and Handling
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi weighs 19 lbs, making it manageable for most users to retrieve from the water. It includes a top carry handle and a compact, well-balanced design.
The S300, weighing slightly less at 18.5 lbs, includes Lift-Out Assist, which guides the cleaner to the waterline at the end of a cleaning cycle for easier removal. This feature greatly improves convenience, especially for users who clean their pool regularly.
Winner: Dolphin S300
Its lighter design and Lift-Out Assist make it easier to handle and more ergonomic for regular pool use.
Cable Design and Movement Flexibility
Both the Nautilus CC Plus WiFi and the S300 use a 60-foot swivel cable, which significantly reduces cable tangling during operation. This feature ensures smooth, uninterrupted movement around the pool and allows the robot to complete full cleaning cycles without user intervention.
Winner: Tie
Each model offers the same tangle-free swivel cable technology, ensuring consistent maneuverability in large in-ground pools.
Warranty and Long-Term Value
Each cleaner comes with a 2-year warranty, reflecting Maytronics’ confidence in their quality and durability. Both are built with rugged components designed for years of reliable service under regular use.
However, in terms of extended usability, the S300’s waterline coverage, multiple cycle options, and Lift-Out Assist give it a longer functional advantage in a broader range of usage scenarios.
Winner: Dolphin S300
While warranties are equal, its more complete feature set offers stronger long-term value.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin S300
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi if you want advanced filtration, smart automation, and consistent floor-to-wall cleaning, all at a slightly more accessible price. It’s perfect for pool owners who prioritize water clarity, app control, and efficient performance without requiring waterline coverage.
Choose Dolphin S300 if you need a more complete cleaning solution with waterline scrubbing, lift-assist, multi-mode cleaning cycles, and more responsive navigation. It’s ideal for high-use pools or homeowners seeking the most convenient and comprehensive robotic cleaner in this tier.
Overall Winner: Dolphin S300
With waterline reach, enhanced mobility, dual cleaning modes, and easier handling, the Dolphin S300 offers the most feature-rich and user-friendly experience in the mid-to-premium range of robotic pool cleaners. For full-surface cleaning and ultimate convenience, it is the superior choice.