As pool owners increasingly seek automated, intelligent solutions to maintain crystal-clear water with minimal effort, two models consistently stand out from the Maytronics lineup: the Dolphin Proteus DX3 vs Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus. These robotic pool cleaners are designed to eliminate manual scrubbing and vacuuming by delivering deep-cleaning capabilities across floor and wall surfaces. However, despite sharing core performance values, their differences in filtration technology, connectivity, coverage capacity, and overall user experience set them apart for different use cases.
In this extensive comparison, we break down all the major categories that matter to pool owners: from scrubbing power and smart features to filtration efficiency and design practicality. The goal is to provide a clear and accurate perspective on which model delivers better value based on real-world performance.
Contents
Differences Dolphin Proteus DX3 vs Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Pool Compatibility and Cleaning Coverage
The Dolphin Proteus DX3 is tailored for in-ground pools up to 33 feet, making it an excellent fit for smaller residential installations. It offers floor and wall cleaning, powered by CleverClean navigation, which ensures the cleaner follows a logical path while avoiding inefficient overlap.
In contrast, the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi is optimized for pools up to 50 feet in length and handles broader cleaning needs with ease. It includes gyroscopic scanning, enhancing its ability to maintain orientation as it moves across the pool surface. This results in smoother directional transitions and better wall coverage for larger and more complex pools.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
Its increased coverage range and navigation precision make it more versatile and effective for medium to large in-ground pools.
Filtration System and Debris Management
The Proteus DX3 uses a single-layer fine filter basket, which is accessible from the top and easy to rinse clean. It handles common pool debris such as leaves, bugs, and standard dirt efficiently, but lacks an ultra-fine layer that can trap smaller particles like silt and pollen without upgrading the filter media.
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi, by comparison, is equipped with a dual-layer filter system that separates debris into fine and ultra-fine compartments. This setup ensures more thorough water filtration by capturing both large debris and microscopic contaminants during a single cycle. The top-loading design also makes routine maintenance simple and fast.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
With advanced dual-layer filtration, it provides superior water clarity and eliminates the need for separate fine and ultra-fine filter purchases.
Brush System and Scrubbing Power
The Proteus DX3 features a single active front brush, which spins faster than the robot’s drive wheels to help scrub away algae and dirt from surfaces. While effective for light cleaning tasks, the limited brush coverage means certain areas may not receive as much friction or scrubbing strength.
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi features dual high-speed active brushes, one at the front and one at the rear. These provide continuous scrubbing contact on both ends of the cleaner, allowing for more aggressive dirt removal and ensuring no section of the pool is left untreated.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
The dual-brush configuration allows for faster, deeper, and more consistent scrubbing across the entire pool surface.
The Proteus DX3 uses a basic version of CleverClean navigation, relying on internal sensors to scan and map the pool before following a route. It avoids random movement and provides efficient floor and wall cleaning, but may struggle with directional recalibration or reorientation on steeper pool angles.
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi enhances this with an integrated gyroscope, which delivers greater orientation awareness. This allows the cleaner to maintain steady alignment, improve transitions between surfaces, and avoid erratic motion, especially in deeper pools or those with non-standard shapes.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
Its gyroscopic stabilization leads to more accurate navigation, better wall contact, and more efficient coverage over time.
Smart Features and App Integration
The Proteus DX3 does not include WiFi connectivity or app control. All cleaning sessions must be started manually using the power supply, and there is no option to schedule cleaning cycles or monitor the cleaner remotely.
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi is fully integrated with the MyDolphin Plus App, allowing users to remotely start or stop cleaning sessions, set a weekly schedule, and receive alerts and updates about their cleaner’s status. The app enhances user experience significantly, offering full hands-off operation from anywhere.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
Smart connectivity turns it into a fully automated pool maintenance tool, ideal for busy homeowners or secondary property management.
Cable Design and Maneuverability
The Proteus DX3 uses a 50-foot standard cable, sufficient for pools within its 33-foot limit. However, it does not include a swivel mechanism, increasing the chances of tangling during long cleaning cycles, especially when the unit turns frequently.
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi is equipped with a 60-foot swivel cable, which prevents twisting and ensures consistent movement throughout larger pool spaces. This feature minimizes interruptions and eliminates the need for manual cable adjustments.
Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
A swivel cable adds significant value in terms of maintenance reduction and uninterrupted operation.
Weight and Handling
At 13.8 lbs, the Proteus DX3 is noticeably lighter than the Nautilus CC Plus WiFi, making it easier to lift out of the water, transport, and store. This is especially beneficial for users who clean their pool frequently or for those who prefer a lightweight solution.
The Nautilus CC Plus WiFi weighs 19 lbs, which is still manageable, but noticeably heavier. It offers more internal cleaning power and hardware, justifying the added weight, though some users may find it more cumbersome during handling.
Winner: Dolphin Proteus DX3
Its lightweight design enhances user convenience for regular manual operation.
Durability and Warranty Protection
Both the Proteus DX3 and the Nautilus CC Plus WiFi come with a 2-year warranty, backed by Maytronics’ reputation for quality and reliability. Both are built with rugged, weather-resistant materials and are suitable for regular in-ground pool cleaning under residential conditions.
Winner: Tie
Both units offer reliable protection and are constructed with long-lasting components designed for seasonal and year-round use.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Proteus DX3
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Proteus DX3 if you own a small in-ground pool and prefer a lightweight, simple, and affordable robotic cleaner that provides solid floor and wall cleaning without requiring app control or smart features. It’s a great option for budget-conscious users seeking core functionality in a compact design.
Choose Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi if you want a more advanced, feature-rich robotic cleaner that handles larger pools, offers dual-layer filtration, dual brushes, and remote app scheduling. It’s ideal for pool owners who prioritize convenience, deeper cleaning, and modern automation.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus WiFi
With superior filtration, enhanced navigation, dual-brush scrubbing, and full smart control, the Nautilus CC Plus WiFi provides the most comprehensive, hands-free pool cleaning experience. For users looking for reliable performance and long-term value, it is the clear top choice.