In the world of premium robotic pool cleaners, Maytronics leads the industry with cutting-edge technology, durable engineering, and intelligent automation. Among their most popular in-ground models are the Dolphin S300 vs Dolphin M600—both purpose-built to handle thorough cleaning of residential pools with minimal user intervention. However, these two models serve very different user needs. One emphasizes affordability and simplicity, while the other represents the pinnacle of smart pool cleaning performance.
In this side-by-side comparison, we evaluate every critical detail—from cleaning efficiency, navigation technology, and filtration systems, to app control, weight, handling, and long-term value. For pool owners deciding between the S300 and the M600, this detailed breakdown will clarify exactly which robot is the better investment based on your expectations and pool environment.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin S300 vs Dolphin M600
Pool Compatibility and Cleaning Coverage
The Dolphin S300 is well-suited for in-ground pools up to 40 feet, offering effective floor and wall cleaning through its CleverClean™ navigation system. It follows a pre-programmed algorithm, ensuring efficient route planning and coverage in standard-shaped pools. However, the S300 does not clean the waterline, leaving residue build-up in that critical zone untreated unless done manually.
The Dolphin M600 targets larger pools up to 50 feet, and thanks to its SmartNav 3.0™ system, it maps the pool in real-time, adjusting routes dynamically as it navigates. It ensures thorough coverage across the floor, walls, and waterline, tackling even complex pool geometries and custom features.
Winner: Dolphin M600
With waterline cleaning, adaptive real-time pathing, and broader pool compatibility, the M600 offers complete, optimized surface coverage.
Filtration System and Debris Handling
The S300 uses a top-loading filter basket that supports both fine and ultra-fine filtration. It’s suitable for collecting sand, silt, leaves, and common debris, but its capacity is limited, which may require more frequent emptying during heavy pool use or leaf shedding seasons.
The M600 comes with an extra-large top-load basket featuring a dual-layer design that separates coarse and ultra-fine debris in two compartments. This not only improves suction consistency but significantly reduces maintenance frequency and filter saturation, even in heavily polluted pools.
Winner: Dolphin M600
With higher capacity and a dual-layer system, the M600 handles a broader range of debris types more efficiently.
Scrubbing Power and Brush Configuration
The Dolphin S300 features dual active front scrubbers that rotate faster than the robot’s forward speed, loosening algae and debris from the pool surface. It performs well for general cleaning tasks on smooth pool materials such as vinyl or fiberglass.
The Dolphin M600 improves upon this with dual active scrubbers placed at both the front and rear, maintaining continuous brush contact during movement in both directions. This configuration enhances scrubbing efficiency, especially during reverse movements or when navigating corners and tight angles.
Winner: Dolphin M600
Dual-positioned scrubbers ensure non-stop surface contact and deeper scrubbing action throughout the cycle.
Waterline Cleaning Capability
The S300, while effective on pool floors and walls, does not support waterline cleaning. As a result, the buildup of sunscreen oils, grime, and scum at the waterline must be cleaned manually or with a secondary tool.
The M600 is fully capable of scrubbing the waterline, thanks to enhanced wall-climbing mechanics, real-time sensor adjustments, and optimized brush pressure. This ensures a polished, fully cleaned pool from top to bottom after each cycle.
Winner: Dolphin M600
Its ability to clean the often-neglected waterline sets it apart for delivering a complete pool clean.
Smart Features and App Control
Both the S300 and M600 can be controlled via the MyDolphin Plus App, but the depth of functionality varies significantly.
The S300 connects via Bluetooth, allowing users to start and stop the cleaner, adjust cleaning modes, and set schedules—all within close range of the unit. However, it lacks cloud connectivity and advanced diagnostics.
The M600 connects via WiFi, giving full access to Pro Mode, which includes remote start/stop, water temperature display, real-time performance stats, custom cleaning cycles, and system diagnostics from anywhere. This transforms the M600 into a fully remote-managed pool maintenance solution.
Winner: Dolphin M600
More connectivity options and in-depth app features make it the smarter, more autonomous cleaner.
Handling, Lift-Out, and Storage
The S300, at just 16.5 pounds, is highly portable and can be retrieved from the pool with minimal effort. However, it lacks Lift-Out Assist, meaning users must manually lift it from the pool floor.
The M600, though heavier at 24.6 pounds, includes Lift-Out Assist, which drives the robot to the wall and expels water for easy handling. It also comes standard with a deluxe caddy, which aids in transport and organized storage of the cable and power supply.
Winner: Dolphin M600
Despite being heavier, its assisted handling and caddy bundle provide a smoother user experience.
Cable Design and Tangling Prevention
The S300 includes a 60-foot cable that is tangle-resistant but does not feature a swivel, meaning it can twist and coil after multiple uses—especially in irregular-shaped pools.
The M600 includes a 60-foot swivel cable, a premium feature that actively prevents tangling, improving cleaner range and reliability during extended cleaning sessions.
Winner: Dolphin M600
The swivel cable ensures better maneuverability, reduced cable fatigue, and minimal tangling across all pool shapes.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin S300
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin M600
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin S300 if you want a lightweight, reliable robotic pool cleaner that delivers excellent wall and floor scrubbing without overcomplicating the experience. It’s ideal for pool owners with standard-size in-ground pools who value simplicity and affordability but can live without smart features and waterline cleaning.
Choose Dolphin M600 if you demand a powerful, intelligent, and fully automated robotic cleaner that offers deep cleaning coverage, top-tier filtration, WiFi connectivity, and true hands-off convenience. It is designed for those who prioritize long-term performance, complete pool hygiene, and smart home integration.
Overall Winner: Dolphin M600
With adaptive navigation, dual-layer filtration, full waterline scrubbing, remote smart controls, and enhanced user ergonomics, the Dolphin M600 is the superior choice for pool owners who expect nothing less than the best in robotic cleaning technology.