When considering premium robotic pool cleaners from Maytronics, two standout models that often draw comparison are the Dolphin S300 vs Dolphin Liberty 300. Each model embodies cutting-edge design and engineering, but their operational approaches differ drastically—the S300 being a traditional corded cleaner, while the Liberty 300 is completely cordless, representing the new wave of wireless robotic pool technology.
In this detailed analysis, we compare these two advanced models in every key category—from cleaning efficiency and mobility to power source, filtration, and user convenience. Whether you’re a homeowner looking for consistent, plug-in reliability or you’re exploring the freedom of cordless automation, this guide delivers everything you need to decide between the S300 and Liberty 300.
Contents
- Differences Between Dolphin S300 vs Dolphin Dolphin Liberty 300
- Corded vs Cordless Operation
- Cleaning Coverage and Pool Compatibility
- Brush System and Scrubbing Performance
- Navigation and Maneuverability
- Filtration and Debris Capacity
- Cable Management vs Portability
- Battery Performance and Charging Considerations
- App Control and User Interaction
- Handling, Storage, and Maintenance
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin S300
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Dolphin Liberty 300
- Conclusion
Differences Between Dolphin S300 vs Dolphin Dolphin Liberty 300
Corded vs Cordless Operation
The Dolphin S300 is a corded robotic pool cleaner, powered via a 60 ft swivel cable that eliminates tangling and ensures consistent energy supply throughout cleaning. This model runs uninterrupted for its full cycle and never needs recharging, making it ideal for users who prioritize long cleaning sessions and consistent, predictable operation.
By contrast, the Dolphin Liberty 300 is a completely cordless pool robot. It runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with a 90-minute runtime per charge. While this provides total freedom of movement and eliminates cable drag or tangling, it does require regular recharging and cannot clean beyond its battery capacity.
Winner: Dolphin S300
For uninterrupted cleaning cycles and extended coverage without recharging, the S300 is the more reliable option, especially for larger pools.
Cleaning Coverage and Pool Compatibility
The Dolphin S300 is rated for in-ground pools up to 50 feet, making it suitable for most residential pool sizes and shapes. It efficiently cleans the floor, walls, and waterline, providing full-coverage maintenance that eliminates the need for manual brushing.
The Liberty 300, while offering similar coverage in terms of surfaces cleaned, is optimized for pools up to 33 feet in length. Although it climbs walls and scrubs waterlines, its shorter runtime and smaller navigation range make it more appropriate for compact or plunge pools.
Winner: Dolphin S300
With broader pool compatibility and full-coverage cleaning in larger environments, the S300 is more versatile for a wider range of installations.
Brush System and Scrubbing Performance
The S300 boasts dual active scrubbing brushes—both front and rear—which rotate independently to dislodge tough grime, algae, and biofilm from the floor, vertical walls, and along the waterline. This dual contact ensures superior cleaning, especially after storms or high-use periods.
The Liberty 300 uses a single soft active brush located at the front. While effective for most daily maintenance tasks, it doesn’t match the aggressive scrubbing capability of the S300’s dual brushes, especially for stubborn buildup on tiles or concrete.
Winner: Dolphin S300
For superior mechanical scrubbing power and consistent debris removal across all pool surfaces, the S300 leads decisively.
Both robots use CleverClean™ navigation, which intelligently maps the pool and ensures efficient, systematic movement. However, each model uses a unique supporting technology to enhance its pathing.
The S300 integrates PowerStream™ mobility jets, which improve wall adhesion and maintain balance on vertical surfaces. This system enhances the cleaner’s directional control and reduces slippage, particularly in deep ends and corners.
The Liberty 300 uses gyroscopic stabilization paired with a Magnetic Click-Up™ system for easy retrieval and orientation. While innovative, the absence of PowerStream jets means slightly reduced control during wall climbs and tight corner transitions.
Winner: Dolphin S300
The PowerStream jet system gives the S300 an edge in climbing ability, maneuvering, and maintaining cleaning precision across all surfaces.
Filtration and Debris Capacity
The S300 is equipped with a multi-layer top-load filter basket, combining fine and ultra-fine mesh inserts that capture everything from large leaves to fine dust particles in a single cycle. The large basket capacity reduces emptying frequency, even in debris-heavy seasons.
The Liberty 300 offers a top-load fine filtration basket, which does a great job with standard debris but lacks the dual-layer refinement and larger volume of the S300’s basket. Its smaller form factor also means more frequent emptying if the pool has high leaf or dirt exposure.
Winner: Dolphin S300
Its superior multi-layer filtration system ensures better water clarity and less frequent filter maintenance.
Cable Management vs Portability
The S300 includes a swivel cable designed to rotate freely with the robot’s motion, preventing tangles during long cycles. This keeps the cleaner running smoothly without requiring manual intervention.
The Liberty 300, being cordless, eliminates cables entirely. This results in complete freedom of movement, ideal for pools with obstacles, built-in features, or hard-to-reach corners. It also offers a cleaner aesthetic and easier storage.
Winner: Dolphin Liberty 300
For total freedom, zero cord maintenance, and hassle-free deployment, the Liberty 300’s cordless design is unmatched in portability.
Battery Performance and Charging Considerations
The Dolphin S300, as a corded unit, draws continuous power from the wall, allowing it to operate on-demand without delay. There’s no need to recharge or monitor battery life, which makes it ideal for users who clean their pools frequently.
The Liberty 300 features a 90-minute lithium-ion battery with a 6-hour charging time. While this runtime is sufficient for pools up to 33 feet, those with larger pools or heavy debris may find the cleaning window restrictive.
Winner: Dolphin S300
With zero downtime between cycles, the S300 wins for consistent power and uninterrupted cleaning capacity.
App Control and User Interaction
Both models are compatible with the MyDolphin Plus app, which provides Bluetooth connectivity for selecting cleaning cycles, viewing status, and initiating manual start/stop commands. However, neither supports Wi-Fi or remote steering capabilities.
The S300 includes a weekly scheduler, enabling automatic operation without manual intervention. The Liberty 300, however, does not offer scheduling and must be activated for each cleaning session after recharging.
Winner: Dolphin S300
With built-in automation and scheduler functionality, the S300 delivers a more hands-off experience for long-term pool care.
Handling, Storage, and Maintenance
Both the S300 and Liberty 300 weigh approximately 18.5 lbs and include ergonomic handles for pool entry and retrieval. The Magnetic Click-Up™ system on the Liberty 300 simplifies pool retrieval by allowing users to lift it out using a magnetic handle—eliminating the need to dive in or fish it out manually.
The S300 offers easy access to its filter from the top, and the robust power supply can be mounted or stored neatly with a caddy (sold separately).
Winner: Tie
Both models are designed for easy handling, with the S300 emphasizing power stability and the Liberty 300 offering advanced cordless retrieval innovation.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin S300
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Dolphin Liberty 300
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin S300 if you want maximum cleaning power, full pool compatibility, and superior scrubbing performance without worrying about recharging. It’s best suited for medium to large in-ground pools where power reliability and coverage matter most.
Choose Dolphin Liberty 300 if you prefer cordless flexibility, easy deployment, and smart design features like Magnetic Click-Up™. It’s perfect for compact pools, owners who value minimalist design, and those looking to avoid any cord-related handling.
Overall Winner: Dolphin S300
With dual-brush scrubbing, broader pool compatibility, a multi-layer filtration system, and powerful wall-climbing support, the Dolphin S300 is the more capable and reliable pool cleaning solution for long-term performance and full-service automation.