For in-ground pool owners seeking elite cleaning performance, the Dolphin Oasis Z5i vs Dolphin Sigma stand among the most advanced robotic pool cleaners on the market. Both developed by Maytronics, these high-end models combine cutting-edge navigation, smart connectivity, superior scrubbing systems, and powerful filtration technologies.
Yet, despite their similar premium positioning, they differ in brush configurations, motor systems, connectivity options, and overall design philosophy. In this thorough comparison, we explore every feature in detail to determine which robotic cleaner delivers the most comprehensive and effective pool maintenance solution.
Contents
- Differences Between Dolphin Oasis Z5i vs Dolphin Sigma
- Pool Compatibility and Cleaning Reach
- Navigation and Movement Technology
- Scrubbing System and Brush Efficiency
- Filtration System and Debris Management
- Mobility System and Climbing Performance
- Smart Features and Connectivity
- Cable Design and Anti-Tangle Engineering
- Weight and Handling
- Weekly Scheduler and Automation
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Oasis Z5i
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Sigma
- Conclusion
Differences Between Dolphin Oasis Z5i vs Dolphin Sigma
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Pool Compatibility and Cleaning Reach
The Dolphin Oasis Z5i and the Dolphin Sigma are both designed for large in-ground pools up to 50 feet. They are fully equipped to clean the floor, walls, and waterline, offering 360-degree coverage that ensures no area of the pool is left untreated. Whether your pool is rectangular, freeform, or deep with multiple levels, both models are more than capable of adapting to complex geometries.
However, the Sigma’s SmartNav 3.0 system allows for even more refined route optimization and real-time adjustments, enabling quicker adaptation to pool variations and more consistent waterline tracking in unusual corners or tight spots.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
With improved real-time path recalibration and enhanced navigation intelligence, the Sigma offers better surface adaptability and edge-to-edge consistency.
The Oasis Z5i uses CleverClean™ navigation with gyroscopic control, which enables it to map the pool efficiently and adjust its trajectory for complete surface coverage. The gyroscope ensures stability when climbing walls and scrubbing at the waterline, reducing drift and maximizing contact.
The Sigma incorporates SmartNav™ 3.0 with gyroscopic stabilization, offering a more advanced movement algorithm with sensor-based tracking. This system not only improves navigation but enhances directional control, enabling the unit to make real-time corrections mid-cleaning to avoid missed spots or inefficient overlap.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
Its next-generation SmartNav system with adaptive tracking places it ahead in the realm of smart movement precision.
Scrubbing System and Brush Efficiency
The Oasis Z5i features dual active brushes that spin at high speeds to dislodge stubborn contaminants on all surfaces. These brushes are excellent for plaster, vinyl, fiberglass, and tiled pools, and they operate independently to improve overall agitation.
The Sigma also uses dual brushes, but is powered by a triple-drive motor system that enables smoother directional transitions and stronger torque for brush contact. This added power translates into more aggressive scrubbing, especially on rough or algae-prone surfaces. The Sigma’s motors provide more torque per brush, which is especially helpful on older pool surfaces or those with heavy scaling.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
With more motor power and brush torque, the Sigma delivers deeper and more consistent scrubbing, particularly on tough spots and rough finishes.
Filtration System and Debris Management
Both models utilize a dual-layer filtration system accessible via top-load cartridges. These filters include both fine and ultra-fine mesh, allowing the cleaners to capture everything from large leaves and twigs to silt, sand, and pollen. Each model’s filters are easy to remove, rinse, and replace, minimizing maintenance time between cleanings.
Although similar in design, the Sigma’s oversized filter cartridges allow for more debris volume, which reduces the frequency of emptying in high-debris environments or during peak seasons. It’s an essential advantage for pool owners with surrounding trees or dust-prone conditions.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
With greater debris capacity and identical filtration quality, the Sigma has the edge for longer uninterrupted cleaning sessions.
Mobility System and Climbing Performance
The Oasis Z5i incorporates a standard dual-drive motor with gyroscopic stabilization. This setup allows it to climb walls efficiently and maintain steady contact with the waterline. The gyroscope helps balance the unit on inclines and improves surface contact during transitions.
The Sigma, on the other hand, features a triple motor system with SmartDrive™ technology, allowing for separate control of propulsion, brush motion, and directional pivoting. This enhances maneuverability in tighter spots, such as steps, sharp corners, and narrow channels. The independent motor configuration also increases responsiveness when navigating steep walls or tile lines.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
The triple-motor drive gives Sigma unmatched fluidity in motion, which translates into superior agility and more thorough cleaning in complex pool shapes.
Smart Features and Connectivity
The Oasis Z5i supports Bluetooth connectivity via the MyDolphin Plus app, which lets users start, stop, and schedule cleanings from a smartphone. While functional, Bluetooth range is limited and requires proximity to the unit.
The Sigma features Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to control the unit from anywhere with internet access. The MyDolphin Plus app on the Sigma supports remote scheduling, manual steering, cleaning mode selection, and filter notifications, offering significantly more flexibility and smarter operation.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
With full Wi-Fi support, remote control, and real-time alerts, the Sigma delivers a much more sophisticated and user-friendly smart experience.
Cable Design and Anti-Tangle Engineering
Both the Oasis Z5i and the Sigma include a 60-foot anti-tangle swivel cable, which ensures seamless cleaning without interruptions caused by cable kinks. This feature is critical for larger pools where multiple directional changes are required. The swivel system on both models is durable, smooth, and effective, preventing resistance during operation.
Winner: Tie
Both units offer best-in-class tangle-free swivel cables, ensuring uninterrupted operation in pools of any shape.
Weight and Handling
Each unit weighs approximately 24 lbs, and both come with built-in ergonomic handles for easier lifting and storage. Their weight reflects their internal motor power and filtration capacity, which are necessary to achieve high-end cleaning performance. While both units are heavier than entry-level models, their design balances power and portability effectively.
Winner: Tie
Both models are similar in weight and handling convenience, making them evenly matched for physical usability.
Weekly Scheduler and Automation
The Oasis Z5i supports a weekly scheduler via the MyDolphin Plus app, allowing users to set automatic cleanings on preset intervals—daily, every other day, or every three days.
The Sigma provides the same weekly scheduling capabilities but enhances them with Wi-Fi access, meaning the schedule can be modified remotely or dynamically adjusted as needed through the app.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
Wi-Fi-based scheduling control makes the Sigma more flexible and adaptable for remote pool management.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Oasis Z5i
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Sigma
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Oasis Z5i if you want a reliable, high-powered robotic cleaner with stable wall and waterline performance, backed by gyroscopic navigation and Bluetooth scheduling. It’s ideal for those who want premium cleaning without needing Wi-Fi access or additional smart features.
Choose Dolphin Sigma if you’re looking for maximum connectivity, superior maneuverability, and more intelligent automation. Its triple motor drive, SmartNav 3.0, Wi-Fi control, and larger filters make it the superior option for pool owners demanding high-end performance with cutting-edge smart tech.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Sigma
With its unmatched smart connectivity, enhanced filtration, and advanced triple-motor agility, the Dolphin Sigma is the more powerful, feature-rich, and future-ready robotic cleaner for high-demand residential pool environments.