The Dolphin Nautilus CC and the Dolphin Sigma are among the most talked about robotic pool cleaners. We bought, tested, and reviewed both to provide you with a clear comparison of these models and help you choose the best option for your needs.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC is designed for smaller in-ground and above-ground pools up to 33 feet. With floor and wall coverage, it provides decent cleaning performance but lacks the features seen in newer models. A notable omission is the programmable timer, previously one of its selling points, and now missing in the latest update. On the other hand, the Dolphin Sigma is known for its commercial-grade motors, waterline cleaning, and advanced features. Built on the foundation of commercial Dolphin cleaners, the Sigma promises thorough cleaning with modern capabilities.
Testing the Dolphin Nautilus CC confirmed our concerns. While it managed floor and wall cleaning well, the absence of a programmable timer and NanoFilters means it falls short in automation and filtration. The lack of waterline cleaning makes it a less attractive choice for those wanting comprehensive pool maintenance. In contrast, the Dolphin Sigma exceeded expectations, delivering efficient coverage with dual scrubbing brushes, Hypergrip tracks, and an integrated gyroscope for precise navigation. Its ability to clean the waterline effectively sets it apart.
In terms of filtration, the Nautilus CC is equipped with a standard fine filter basket. While functional for basic debris collection, it lacks the versatility and fine filtration needed for cloudy water. The Dolphin Sigma, however, includes both standard and ultrafine filters. This dual filtration system ensures that all types of debris, from microscopic particles to larger debris, are effectively removed from your pool.
Feature-wise, the Nautilus CC's removal of the programmable timer was a significant downgrade. This absence means manually starting cleaning cycles, reducing the convenience that many pool owners seek. On the other hand, the Dolphin Sigma offers advanced features such as a smartphone app with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to schedule and control cleanings remotely. Additionally, the Sigma’s three-year warranty provides peace of mind, backed by Maytronics’ reliable customer service.
When we tested these robots, the Dolphin Nautilus CC displayed reliable performance within its limitations. However, it clearly lagged behind the Dolphin Sigma, which showcased superior technology and practicality. This detailed review should give you a comprehensive understanding of both models' strengths and weaknesses, leading into how we conduct our tests to ensure thorough and unbiased assessments.
Testing robotic pool cleaners involves multiple stages to ensure we gather comprehensive and accurate data. For each model, we conduct rigorous testing over three months. This duration ensures we observe both short-term performance and long-term durability.
First, we assess the pool coverage of each cleaner. We evaluate how well the device navigates different pool sizes and shapes. We monitor whether it cleans the pool floor, walls, and most critically, the waterline. Given the importance of comprehensive cleaning, waterline performance is a significant factor. A pool robot must cover every inch efficiently, and we take note of any obstacles it encounters or areas it misses.
Second, we look at filtration ability. Our testing includes various types of debris like leaves, dirt, and sand. We examine how well the filters handle these different types of debris. Not all pools face the same challenges. Therefore, a versatile filtration system like the one found in the Dolphin Sigma is highly valuable. Multiple filter types allow it to tackle everything from large leaves to fine particles that cloud water.
Feature set and warranty are the final components of our testing. Feature sets vary widely among robotic pool cleaners, and we particularly value automation capabilities like programmable timers. The Dolphin Sigma stands out with its advanced features, including a smartphone app for easy control and scheduling. Warranty is also crucial, as we want to ensure that the investment is protected over the long haul. Units like the Sigma, which come with a three-year warranty, provide that extra peace of mind.
During our three-month evaluation period, we noted how straightforward and convenient it was to use these devices. For instance, while using the Nautilus CC, the absence of a programmable timer presented a significant inconvenience, requiring manual operation each time. Conversely, the Dolphin Sigma's app-based control allowed us to manage all functions remotely, significantly enhancing the user experience.
Our tests also include stress conditions like heavier debris loads and varying water conditions to see how well each robot adapts. The Sigma's performance under these stressful conditions was exemplary. Its dual scrubbing brushes and gyroscope aided in precise and thorough pool cleaning, highlighting why it excels among other robotic pool cleaners.
As a result, our comprehensive and intense testing ensures that we provide accurate and reliable information to help you choose the best robotic pool cleaner for your needs. Whether you prioritize advanced features, such as those found in the Dolphin Sigma, or need a more budget-friendly option, our reviews cover all aspects to aid in your decision-making process.
The coverage capabilities of the Dolphin Nautilus CC and the Dolphin Sigma differ significantly, especially when evaluating which parts of the pool they clean and how effectively they perform these tasks. The Nautilus CC is designed for smaller in-ground and above-ground pools up to 33 feet. While it can clean the pool floors and walls efficiently, it lacks the capability to clean the waterline thoroughly. Its coverage score of 7 reflects this limitation.
The Dolphin Sigma, on the other hand, excels in covering every part of the pool, including the waterline. Equipped with dual scrubbing brushes, Hypergrip tracks, and an integrated gyroscope, the Sigma ensures precise cleaning. It maintains an efficient path across the entire pool, making it superior at handling various cleaning tasks. Its perfect score of 10 in this category highlights its ability to handle all areas of the pool seamlessly.
When comparing how well these robots clean, the Nautilus CC does a satisfactory job with its active scrubbing brush and CleverClean Navigation System, but it tends to fall short on the waterline. This omission means you might need to manually scrub the dirtiest part of your pool. The Sigma, however, eliminates this need entirely. The gyroscope enables it to stick and navigate the waterline effectively, ensuring a complete clean.
The Sigma's ability to move efficiently and cover all parts of the pool is further enhanced by its advanced mobility features, including the dual stabilizer. This provides the robot with the stability needed to clean vertical surfaces and the waterline effectively. The Nautilus CC, while capable of navigating smaller pools, often struggles to achieve this level of versatility.
The coverage scores underline these differences clearly. The Nautilus CC's score of 7 reflects its limitations, particularly in waterline cleaning, whereas the Sigma's score of 10 underscores its comprehensive and efficient coverage, making it one of the top choices for those seeking a robotic pool cleaner. If you need a cleaner that can handle an entire pool, including the waterline, the Sigma is the superior choice.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC and the Dolphin Sigma incorporate different filtration systems, each with unique benefits and limitations. Understanding these differences is key to deciding which one suits your pool cleaning needs best.
The Dolphin Nautilus CC uses a standard fine filter basket, designed for basic debris collection. While it captures most of the visible debris, it lacks the finesse to handle finer particles, which can lead to cloudy water issues. Without the option for an ultrafine or NanoFilter, the Nautilus CC remains limited in its filtration efficiency. This standard filter is a step above traditional pressure cleaners but does not match the effectiveness needed for pools with varied debris.
In contrast, the Dolphin Sigma excels with its dual filtration options: a standard filter and an ultrafine filter. This combination ensures comprehensive cleaning by capturing both large debris and microscopic particles that cloud the pool water. The inclusion of both filters demonstrates a significant upgrade over the Nautilus CC, providing versatility in handling different types of debris from leaves to minute particles.
The Dolphin Sigma's NanoFilters are particularly crucial for capturing the smallest particles, ensuring crystal-clear water. This feature is not present in the Nautilus CC, giving the Sigma a clear edge in maintaining optimal water quality. I prefer using the Sigma because it handles a wider range of debris, from large leaves to fine dust, reducing the need for additional pool maintenance and chemical use to manage cloudy water.
When it comes to the ease of use, the Dolphin Sigma again takes the lead. The filters are easy to access and clean, promoting regular maintenance without hassle. The standard filter in the Nautilus CC is also straightforward, but the lack of multiple filtration options means you could be cleaning your pool and filters more frequently to achieve the same level of clarity.
Filtration ability is a critical factor because it directly impacts the quality of your pool water. The Dolphin Sigma’s superior filtration system ensures more effective and efficient cleaning, translating to less manual intervention and better water quality. The Sigma’s filter score of 9.4 reflects its nearly flawless design and functionality, sharply contrasting with the Nautilus CC’s respectable but lower score of 7.
In conclusion, for the filtration category, the clear winner is the Dolphin Sigma. It outperforms the Dolphin Nautilus CC not only in versatility but also in the quality of water maintenance. If having a cleaner pool with minimal effort and greater efficiency in filtration is your priority, the Sigma is the superior choice.
When comparing the feature sets of the Dolphin Nautilus CC and the Dolphin Sigma, distinct differences emerge that cater to various user needs. The Dolphin Nautilus CC, once renowned for its programmable timer, now lacks this crucial feature. This downgrade impacts its automation capabilities significantly, making manual start-ups a necessity every time you want to clean your pool.
On the other hand, the Dolphin Sigma offers a plethora of advanced features that elevate it to the top tier of robotic pool cleaners. Notably, it comes with a smartphone app that allows for remote control and scheduling. This feature eases pool maintenance by enabling users to manage their robot from anywhere, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
A key missing feature in the Nautilus CC is the absence of waterline cleaning. While it covers floors and walls, it fails to address the dirtiest part of the pool - the waterline. In stark contrast, the Dolphin Sigma excels in waterline cleaning, thanks to its integrated gyroscope and dual stabilizer. This means the Sigma not only reaches but effectively scrubs the waterline, providing comprehensive pool maintenance.
Regarding filtration, the Nautilus CC employs a standard fine filter, which handles basic debris but lacks the ability to filter finer particles effectively. Conversely, the Dolphin Sigma includes both standard and ultrafine filters. The Sigma’s dual filtration system captures everything from large debris to microscopic particles, ensuring crystal-clear water.
Another critical difference lies in the feature called the programmable timer. While the Nautilus CC once had it, it’s now absent, reducing its user-friendliness. The Sigma not only retains this feature but also enhances it with Wi-Fi connectivity. This functionality allows users to set and adjust cleaning schedules remotely, adding to the ease of pool maintenance.
In terms of warranty, the Dolphin Sigma offers a robust three-year warranty, reflecting its durability and the manufacturer's confidence in its long-term performance. The Nautilus CC comes with a standard two-year warranty, which, while sufficient, is less reassuring compared to the Sigma's extensive coverage.
When comparing their feature scores, the Dolphin Nautilus CC receives a score of 5. This reflects its adequacy in basic pool cleaning but highlights its missing automation features and advanced functionalities. In contrast, the Dolphin Sigma scores a solid 10, thanks to its comprehensive feature set that includes app connectivity, a gyroscope, dual filters, and an extended warranty.
To sum up, the Dolphin Nautilus CC offers reliable performance within its limited feature set, making it suitable for basic pool maintenance. However, the Dolphin Sigma stands out as a superior choice, thanks to its advanced features, comprehensive automation, and enhanced filtration, making it the best option for those seeking top-notch pool cleaning.
When weighing the Dolphin Nautilus CC against the Dolphin Sigma, it becomes evident that the Sigma offers superior features and performance. The Nautilus CC, with an overall score of 6.3, falls short in several key areas. Its elimination of the programmable timer, lack of NanoFilters, and inability to clean the waterline detract from its effectiveness. While it does provide decent floor and wall cleaning for smaller pools, these limitations make it less appealing.
On the other hand, the Dolphin Sigma stands out as a top performer, scoring an impressive 9.8. It excels in all aspects, from pool coverage and filtration to its rich feature set and extended warranty. The Sigma's commercial-grade motors, advanced navigation with a gyroscope, and dual filtration system make it a powerhouse in pool cleaning. Its smartphone app and three-year warranty further enhance its appeal, offering convenience and peace of mind to the user.
For those seeking a robotic pool cleaner that guarantees comprehensive cleaning, the Dolphin Sigma is an unmatched choice. Its ability to scrub the waterline effectively and navigate precisely due to its gyroscope sets it apart. In comparison, the Nautilus CC may be suitable for those on a budget, but it lacks the advanced features that the Sigma brings to the table.
If you're searching for alternatives with excellent performance and value, consider the Dolphin Quantum or the Dolphin Cayman. These models offer remarkable features and reliable performance, making them viable options for maintaining a pristine pool. However, for the best in class, the Sigma remains the standout choice.
Explore other top-rated models in our best pool robots guide to find a cleaner that best fits your needs. These reviews are designed to help you select the best robotic pool cleaner for a hassle-free pool maintenance experience.
When considering alternatives to the previously discussed pool cleaners, several highly rated options come to mind. A standout among these is the Dolphin Premier. Known for its exceptional performance in handling various types of debris, the Dolphin Premier offers advanced features that make pool maintenance a breeze.
The Dolphin Premier includes a dual scrubbing system and Multi-Media filtration, which features standard filters, NanoFilters, an oversized leaf bag, and even an optional disposable debris bag. This versatile filtration system ensures the robot captures everything from large leaves to microscopic particles, providing crystal-clear water. Additionally, the Premier is equipped with a programmable timer and a three-year warranty, offering reliability and convenience.
Another excellent option is the Dolphin Escape, particularly suited for above-ground or smaller in-ground pools. This model excels in providing a powerful clean with its HyperBrush, MaxBin, and Smart Nav 2.0 technology, allowing it to clean efficiently and effectively. The Escape's lightweight design makes it easy to handle, and its robust motor ensures comprehensive pool coverage.
While it lacks some of the advanced features found in more premium models, such as waterline cleaning, the Dolphin Escape delivers excellent performance for its price point. It also includes the option to add NanoFilters, which enhances its filtration capabilities, making it a practical choice for many pool owners.
For those looking for a balance between performance and value, the Dolphin Cayman is a noteworthy contender. Equipped with a programmable timer, MaxBin, and HyperBrush, the Cayman offers robust cleaning abilities. Although it doesn't provide waterline cleaning, it excels at cleaning pool floors and walls.
The Cayman's Smart Nav 2.0 technology ensures it navigates the pool efficiently, covering all areas without missing a spot. Its durable design and solid warranty make it a reliable option for those seeking an advanced pool cleaning solution at a mid-range price.
