For homeowners investing in robotic pool cleaners, Maytronics remains one of the most trusted names in the industry. Two of their most popular models—the Dolphin Proteus DX4 vs Dolphin Proteus DX5i—stand out for their solid performance, efficient cleaning patterns, and top-access filtration. While both are designed for in-ground pools and provide exceptional results, key differences in smart connectivity, scheduling features, and filtration capacity make each model uniquely suited to different types of users.
This complete comparison of the Dolphin Proteus DX4 vs Dolphin Proteus DX5i evaluates both models across all critical features—cleaning coverage, brush power, filter capacity, smart integration, cable management, and overall usability—to help pool owners determine which is the more advanced, practical, and future-ready option for their pool maintenance routine.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin Proteus DX4 vs Dolphin Proteus DX5i
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Both the Proteus DX4 and DX5i are equipped with CleverClean™ smart navigation, a scanning algorithm that enables the robot to optimize its route across the pool floor, walls, and waterline. This system minimizes overlap and ensures full coverage within the designated two-hour cleaning cycle. In terms of movement intelligence, both models follow a similar logic with consistent pool mapping and adaptive turns, even in uniquely shaped pools.
Where the DX5i gains a marginal edge is in its refined route planning thanks to enhanced internal sensors, which work in tandem with Wi-Fi control to improve pattern adaptation during cleaning. This leads to slightly more efficient coverage, particularly in non-standard or freeform pools with irregular contours.
Winner: Dolphin Proteus DX5i
While both offer excellent coverage, the DX5i’s smarter feedback loop with its app control gives it an edge in handling complex pool layouts more precisely.
Brush Performance and Surface Cleaning Power
Each model features a single high-speed active scrubbing brush mounted on the front axle. These brushes spin at higher revolutions per minute than the robot’s wheels, delivering forceful contact against pool surfaces. Both models effectively remove grime, algae, and biofilm from the floor and walls. The active brush design ensures that even slick or rough-textured surfaces like plaster and tile are thoroughly cleaned.
In terms of hardware, there is no performance difference between the brush systems on the DX4 and DX5i. Both models maintain excellent surface agitation during their cycle.
Winner: Tie
Both units feature the same active brush design and cleaning effectiveness.
Filtration Capacity and Debris Handling
The Dolphin Proteus DX4 uses a standard top-load filter basket that includes both fine and ultra-fine filters. This system captures a range of debris from large leaves and twigs to sand and pollen. However, the basket’s overall capacity is moderate, and in high-debris environments, it may require cleaning mid-cycle during peak seasons.
The DX5i, on the other hand, includes an extra-large fine and ultra-fine filter basket—increasing its debris capacity significantly. This reduces the frequency of maintenance while maintaining high filtration efficiency. For pool owners with nearby trees, heavy shedding plants, or frequent dust storms, this added capacity is a major advantage.
Winner: Dolphin Proteus DX5i
Its larger debris basket improves maintenance intervals and captures more debris in a single cycle, especially in larger pools.
Waterline Cleaning Capabilities
Waterline cleaning is a standout requirement for robotic pool cleaners. Both the DX4 and DX5i are capable of climbing walls and scrubbing the waterline. With their intelligent sensing mechanisms and traction control, they can remain on vertical surfaces long enough to clean the upper tile line—a notorious area for oil, dirt, and scum accumulation.
This ability to target the waterline sets these two models apart from entry-level cleaners. In actual performance, both execute this feature equally well.
Winner: Tie
Both models are equipped with waterline scrubbing features and perform exceptionally in this area.
Smart Connectivity and Scheduling
The DX4 includes a manual weekly timer via its physical control box. It can be configured to run on a set cleaning frequency (e.g., every day, every other day, every third day), but requires manual interaction to make adjustments. It lacks mobile integration, remote start, or cycle customization.
In contrast, the DX5i features full Wi-Fi integration via the MyDolphin™ Plus app. This allows for remote start/stop, cleaning mode adjustments, and precise scheduling from anywhere. Whether you’re inside the house, away at work, or on vacation, you can fully control the DX5i’s operations with your smartphone.
Winner: Dolphin Proteus DX5i
Its smart app-based control dramatically enhances convenience and flexibility in daily pool management.
Ease of Maintenance and Usability
Both the DX4 and DX5i feature top-load filter baskets, making routine cleaning simple. The lids open with a single press, and the filter baskets can be removed, rinsed, and reinserted in under a minute. The units also come with ergonomic carry handles and lightweight chassis for easy removal from the pool after a cycle.
Due to its larger basket, the DX5i may require slightly more effort when cleaning, but the extended time between cleanings offsets that for most users. Setup for both models is simple, though the DX5i requires additional time to configure the app during initial use.
Winner: Tie
Both units are designed with user convenience in mind, and their filter access is quick and intuitive.
Cable Management and Movement Flexibility
Each model includes a 60-foot tangle-resistant cable with a built-in swivel, ensuring that the robot can navigate freely around the pool without the cord coiling or tangling. This is especially useful in pools with irregular shapes, deep ends, or built-in steps.
While neither model includes cable storage, the tangle-free design dramatically reduces manual intervention during or after a cleaning cycle.
Winner: Tie
Identical cable length and swivel design provide smooth operation in both units.
Weight and Portability
At approximately 18.5 lbs, the DX4 is slightly lighter than the DX5i, which weighs closer to 20 lbs due to its larger basket and additional hardware. Both models are portable and easy to lift out of the pool using the built-in handle, but users who prioritize ease of handling might lean toward the DX4 for its slightly lower weight.
Winner: Dolphin Proteus DX4
Marginally easier to transport and lift for those who prioritize lighter equipment.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Proteus DX4
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Proteus DX5i
Conclusion
Choose the Dolphin Proteus DX4 if you want a straightforward, reliable robotic pool cleaner with excellent cleaning capabilities and a proven track record. It’s ideal for users who want effective performance without relying on smart features or mobile integration.
Choose the Dolphin Proteus DX5i if you’re looking for a more intelligent and future-ready cleaning solution with remote scheduling, app control, and extended filtration capacity. It’s perfect for pool owners who prioritize convenience, automation, and long-term debris management.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Proteus DX5i
With superior smart features, a larger filtration system, and flexible scheduling through its mobile app, the DX5i stands out as the more advanced and efficient robotic pool cleaner for modern homeowners.