When it comes to advanced robotic pool cleaners engineered for in-ground pools, two of Maytronics’ standout models are the Dolphin Quantum vs Dolphin Triton PS. Each of these robotic cleaners delivers smart navigation, efficient scrubbing, and superior debris management.
However, under the hood, the Quantum and Triton PS diverge in mobility systems, filtration design, scrubbing mechanics, and navigation technology. This comprehensive comparison breaks down every critical feature and performance metric so that pool owners can confidently decide which cleaner best suits their pool’s size, surface type, and cleaning demands.
Contents
- Differences Between Dolphin Quantum vs Dolphin Triton PS
- Pool Compatibility and Surface Coverage
- Navigation Technology and Smart Scanning
- Scrubbing System and Brush Performance
- Filtration Design and Debris Management
- Mobility System and Climbing Ability
- Waterline Cleaning Performance
- Cycle Duration and Energy Efficiency
- Cable Management and Swivel Design
- Weight, Handling, and User Experience
- Smart Features and Automation
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Quantum
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Triton PS
- Conclusion
Differences Between Dolphin Quantum vs Dolphin Triton PS
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Pool Compatibility and Surface Coverage
The Dolphin Quantum and the Dolphin Triton PS are both designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet, making them well-suited for most residential pool owners. They each clean the floor and walls, but only the Quantum includes dedicated waterline cleaning, a feature that sets it apart.
The Quantum ensures no section of the pool goes untouched, including the tile band and scum line, which are notorious for accumulating oils, sunscreen residue, and floating debris. The Triton PS, while excellent at floor and wall cleaning, lacks targeted waterline scrubbing, which means manual brushing may still be needed along the top edges.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
With full floor-to-waterline cleaning capability, the Quantum delivers more complete and hands-free pool maintenance.
Navigation plays a critical role in robotic cleaning efficiency. The Dolphin Quantum is equipped with SmartNav™ 2.0 navigation combined with a gyroscope, allowing for real-time directional tracking and optimized cleaning paths. This results in reduced overlap, better coverage, and smarter movement around pool ladders, drains, and steps.
The Triton PS uses CleverClean™ Technology, which is effective but lacks the same level of spatial awareness. It scans and maps the pool floor and walls, but it doesn’t adjust as precisely in real time or navigate complex curves and obstacles with the same accuracy as Quantum.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
With advanced gyroscopic control and superior route optimization, Quantum provides cleaner, faster, and more efficient cycles.
Scrubbing System and Brush Performance
The Dolphin Quantum features dual HyperBrush™ rollers, rotating at high speeds to break up stubborn dirt, algae, and debris on any pool surface, including plaster, tile, or vinyl. These brushes spin twice as fast as the robot’s movement speed, delivering unmatched scrubbing intensity.
In contrast, the Triton PS includes a single high-speed front brush. While this brush is effective for lifting common debris and scum, the absence of a rear brush and lower scrubbing torque limit its ability to handle thicker grime or scale buildup in one pass.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
Quantum’s dual HyperBrush system delivers greater agitation, deeper scrubbing, and faster results across all pool surfaces.
Filtration Design and Debris Management
The Quantum boasts an oversized top-loading basket with both fine and ultra-fine filtration layers, capable of trapping everything from large leaves to tiny pollen and dust particles. The massive basket volume also reduces the need for frequent filter rinsing, especially in leafy or windy areas.
The Triton PS uses a modular filter basket that includes fine and ultra-fine inserts. While it captures debris effectively and is easy to clean, it’s smaller in capacity compared to Quantum’s basket, requiring more frequent cleaning during heavy debris seasons.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
With greater volume and dual-stage filtration, Quantum handles debris-heavy pools more efficiently and with fewer maintenance interruptions.
Mobility System and Climbing Ability
The Quantum’s HyperGrip™ continuous tracks provide a major performance boost in grip and traction. These rubberized tracks ensure stable wall climbing and consistent surface contact, even on slick or steep inclines. This system allows Quantum to clean deeply without slipping or losing pressure against the wall or tile band.
The Triton PS uses a wheel-based drive system combined with PowerStream™ technology, which aids wall grip and lateral movement. However, wheels are more prone to slipping, especially on wet or slimy surfaces, and may struggle with consistency during vertical climbs or sharp surface transitions.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
Track-driven movement guarantees superior climbing stability, traction, and maneuverability across all pool terrains.
Waterline Cleaning Performance
The Dolphin Quantum offers dedicated waterline scrubbing, making it an ideal option for users who want their robot to handle every aspect of pool cleaning without manual assistance. Its intelligent navigation and powerful scrubbing ensure the top edge of the pool stays clean, especially where grime, oils, and biofilm tend to accumulate.
The Triton PS, although capable of climbing walls, does not dwell or scrub specifically at the waterline. This omission often requires manual touch-ups with a brush or sponge for a truly pristine appearance.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
For owners seeking full hands-free cleaning including the waterline, Quantum is the clear choice.
Cycle Duration and Energy Efficiency
Both the Quantum and Triton PS offer 2-hour cleaning cycles, striking an excellent balance between thoroughness and energy use. They are engineered for low energy consumption, using a fraction of the electricity of traditional booster-pump systems, and require no external hookups.
Despite similar runtimes, Quantum’s more advanced navigation ensures it uses its time more efficiently, completing its cleaning cycles with fewer wasted movements.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
More intelligent pathing means less energy is spent on redundant movements, giving Quantum the edge in real-world efficiency.
Cable Management and Swivel Design
Both models include a 60-foot anti-tangle swivel cable, which prevents twisting as the robot moves across the pool. This feature is essential for uninterrupted cleaning and easy retrieval after each cycle.
The Quantum’s track-based movement naturally reduces erratic turns and improves cable alignment over time. While Triton PS’s cable performs well, wheel-based systems tend to pivot more frequently, which may increase tension on the cable during longer runs.
Winner: Dolphin Quantum
Fewer abrupt pivots and consistent movement make its cable system more tangle-resistant in practice.
Weight, Handling, and User Experience
The Dolphin Triton PS is significantly lighter at 16.5 lbs, making it easier to lift, deploy, and remove from the pool. Its compact frame and ergonomic handle improve portability, especially for users who prefer a lightweight unit.
The Dolphin Quantum, weighing in at 27 lbs, is heavier due to its larger motor system, track mechanism, and oversized filter basket. While it’s manageable for most users, it requires more effort to lift from the pool when full of debris.
Winner: Dolphin Triton PS
For ease of handling and portability, the Triton PS offers a more user-friendly form factor.
Smart Features and Automation
Both the Quantum and Triton PS include a built-in weekly scheduler, which allows users to automate cleaning cycles on a daily, alternate day, or every third-day basis. Neither model features Wi-Fi or app control, which means all functions must be managed from the power supply.
While automation is equally supported, Quantum’s superior debris capacity and cleaning precision make it more suitable for true “set it and forget it” operation.
Winner: Tie
Automation support is identical, though Quantum’s better self-sufficiency gives it a functional advantage for long-term use.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Quantum
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Triton PS
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Triton PS if you’re looking for a lightweight, dependable robotic pool cleaner that handles floor and wall cleaning efficiently, and you’re willing to perform occasional manual waterline maintenance. It’s a solid mid-range performer that offers simplicity and great value.
Choose Dolphin Quantum if you want comprehensive, hands-free cleaning with waterline scrubbing, aggressive dual-brush action, and greater debris capacity. Its track-based movement, gyroscopic navigation, and oversized filter basket make it a powerhouse for large, debris-heavy in-ground pools.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Quantum
With more advanced technology, deeper scrubbing power, and full-surface coverage, the Dolphin Quantum stands out as the premium choice for homeowners who demand the most from a robotic pool cleaner.