For commercial pool operators, choosing between the Dolphin Wave 60 vs Dolphin Wave 80 comes down to balancing coverage capacity, cleaning power, and smart functionality. Both models are built by Maytronics to handle large in-ground pools, delivering reliable floor and wall scrubbing, high-volume suction, and easy operation. But their differences in filter capacity, runtime, and smart navigation determine which is better suited for different types of commercial environments—from swim schools to hotel pools.
In this in-depth comparison, we break down every important aspect to help you choose the right high-performance robotic cleaner for your commercial needs.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin Wave 60 vs Dolphin Wave 80
Below is a summary of the specifications:
Design Comparison
The Dolphin Wave 60 and Wave 80 are both designed for heavy-duty performance in large pools, but they cater to different size categories. The Wave 60 handles pools up to 68 feet, while the Wave 80 is built for pools up to 88 feet, making it the better fit for larger commercial or municipal settings.
The Wave 60 is compact and relatively lightweight for a commercial model, weighing just 24.6 pounds. It includes a 78-foot tangle-free swivel cable, offering wide coverage without cable twisting. Its slim profile makes it easier to transport and deploy, especially in mid-size commercial pools or multi-pool facilities where mobility is key.
In contrast, the Wave 80 is a true heavy-duty robot, weighing 44 pounds, and equipped with a 98-foot swivel cable to comfortably reach across Olympic or oversized pools. Its large filter capacity and sturdy build make it better suited for high-debris environments or extended cleaning shifts.
Winner: Dolphin Wave 80
With a larger coverage range and longer cable, the Wave 80 is built for more demanding, high-capacity pool environments.
Cleaning Performance Comparison
The Dolphin Wave 60 features dual active brushes that scrub the pool floor and walls thoroughly, rotating faster than the tracks to lift stubborn debris. It delivers a strong suction rate of 4,233 gallons per hour and completes its cleaning cycle in approximately 2.5 hours. However, it does not clean the waterline, making it slightly limited in scope for pools with frequent surface grime buildup.
The Wave 80 not only includes the same dual active brushes and high suction power, but it extends cleaning to the waterline, offering full-spectrum maintenance. It supports multiple cleaning cycles (2, 4, or 6 hours), giving operators flexibility based on pool usage and cleanliness levels. Its top-load filter basket is larger and supports both fine and ultra-fine filtration, ideal for environments with heavy foot traffic or high particle load.
In terms of runtime flexibility, filtration efficiency, and cleaning coverage, the Wave 80 delivers superior performance in nearly every category. The ability to run up to 6 hours per cycle makes it suitable for overnight or off-peak scheduling in large facilities.
Winner: Dolphin Wave 80
With extended runtime options, waterline scrubbing, and better filtration, the Wave 80 dominates in overall cleaning performance.
Feature Comparison
The Dolphin Wave 60 includes a weekly timer built into the power supply, allowing simple scheduling for regular cleanings. However, it lacks remote or app-based control. It is designed for straightforward, reliable operation in consistent-use commercial environments.
The Wave 80 steps it up with a programmable digital timer and comes equipped with a remote control for manual spot cleaning or mode changes on demand. While neither unit supports Wi-Fi or mobile apps, the Wave 80’s included caddy and control system offer significantly more control and convenience for facility operators managing large or varied cleaning needs.
Winner: Dolphin Wave 80
With remote operation, programmable timers, and more customization, the Wave 80 offers greater control for dynamic commercial environments.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Wave 60
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Wave 80
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Wave 60 if you need a lightweight, efficient, and cost-effective robotic cleaner for mid-size commercial pools. It’s ideal for swim schools, hotel pools, or facilities with consistent debris loads and flat-bottom layouts. Easy to deploy and reliable, it gets the job done with minimal training or setup.
Choose Dolphin Wave 80 if you manage a larger or more demanding commercial pool that requires extended runtime, waterline cleaning, and programmable controls. It’s the better option for operators needing higher capacity, deeper coverage, and more automated scheduling flexibility.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Wave 80
With its waterline coverage, longer runtime, larger pool capacity, and remote functionality, the Dolphin Wave 80 delivers unmatched commercial-grade performance and is the clear choice for high-demand aquatic environments.