When it comes to keeping your pool pristine and hassle-free, robotic pool cleaners are an invaluable investment. Two popular options are the Dolphin Active 15 and the Nautilus CC by Maytronics. Both offer convenience and thorough cleaning, but each model has unique features that might make one more suitable for your pool than the other. In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into both the Dolphin Active 15 and the Nautilus CC, comparing them across several key aspects to help you make the best choice.
Contents
- Overview of Dolphin Active 15 and Nautilus CC
- Design and Build Quality
- Cleaning Efficiency and Power
- Coverage and Navigation
- Filter System and Debris Collection
- User-Friendliness and Maintenance
- Mobility and Portability
- Price and Value for Money
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Active 10
- Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Nautilus CC
- Which Pool Cleaner Is Right for You?
- Product Videos
- Conclusion
Overview of Dolphin Active 15 and Nautilus CC
Dolphin Active 15 and Nautilus CC are both powerful, easy-to-use robotic pool cleaners, specifically designed for in-ground pools. The Active 15 is known for its advanced suction power and energy efficiency, while the Nautilus CC is popular for its affordability and reliable cleaning performance. Understanding the differences in their features and capabilities can help you select the ideal model for your pool’s needs.
| Dolphin Active 15 | Dolphin Nautilus CC | |
| Weight | 14,6 pounds | 14 pounds |
| Size | 22,16 x 17,56 x 12,79 inches | 16.38 x 16.77 x 8.97 inches |
| Pool Size | Up to 33 Ft | Up to 33 Ft |
| Pool Type | In-Ground | In-Ground |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel Cable | No | No |
| Cable Length | 50 feet | 50 feet |
| Filter Type | Fine, Ultra Fine | Fine Filter Kit |
| Filter Access | Top Access | Top Access |
| Filter Description | Basket, Top-load | Basket, Top-load |
| Cleaning Coverage | Floor and Walls | Floor and Walls |
| Cleaning Mode(s) | Standard | Standard |
| Cleaning Cycle(s) | 2 Hours | 2 Hours |
| Mobility | CleverClean™ | CleverClean™ |
| Suction Rate | 4000 gph | 4000 gph |
| Number of Brushes | 1 Brush | 1 Brush |
| Waterline Scrubbing | No | No |
| Brush Type | Standard Brush | Standard Brush |
| Active Brushes | 1 Active | 1 Active |
| Remote Control | No | No |
| Wi-Fi® | No | No |
| MyDolphin™ Plus App | No | No |
| Weekly Timer | No | Yes |
| Cycle Selector | No | No |
| Delay Mode | No | No |
| Full Bag Indicator | No | No |
| Delay Feature | No | No |
| Automation Mode | No | Yes |
| More | Buy Now At Amazon | Buy Now At Amazon |
Design and Build Quality
Dolphin Active 15
The Dolphin Active 15 has a sleek, modern design and is built with durable materials that ensure long-lasting performance. Its lightweight construction makes it easy to handle, carry, and store, even for one person. The Active 15 also includes a convenient top-load filter system that simplifies maintenance.
Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC sports a compact, robust design that is slightly more compact than the Active 15. Its smaller build allows it to access tight corners and hard-to-reach areas of the pool. Like the Active 15, it also features a top-loading filter basket, making debris removal easy and mess-free.
Cleaning Efficiency and Power
Dolphin Active 15
The Dolphin Active 15 offers excellent suction power that makes it ideal for removing small to medium debris, dirt, and even algae from pool surfaces. It features dual scrubbing brushes that are effective at loosening grime from walls, floor, and waterline. The Active 15 operates on a single motor that is energy efficient yet powerful enough to handle a thorough cleaning cycle in about 1.5 hours.
Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC is equipped with a single active scrubbing brush that spins at twice the speed of the wheels, which ensures a high level of cleaning on the pool floor. Its suction power is also efficient for handling small debris and dirt, though it may not be as effective as the Active 15 for tackling stubborn grime or algae. The cleaning cycle for the Nautilus CC takes approximately 2 hours, making it slightly slower than the Dolphin Active 15.
Dolphin Active 15
The Active 15 uses advanced CleverClean technology, which is a smart navigation system that scans the pool to create an optimal cleaning path. This technology ensures that every inch of your pool is covered, regardless of shape or size, avoiding unnecessary overlapping. Its built-in sensors help it navigate around obstacles and adjust its cleaning path accordingly.
Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC also uses a version of CleverClean technology, but with slightly less refined mapping compared to the Active 15. While it covers the pool floor thoroughly, it might require more time to achieve the same level of cleaning, especially in pools with intricate shapes or multiple obstacles. It’s reliable for basic pool layouts but may struggle slightly in pools with unique configurations or many obstacles.
Filter System and Debris Collection
Dolphin Active 15
The Dolphin Active 15 features a top-load, fine-filter basket designed to trap both large debris, like leaves, and finer dirt particles. This ensures that your pool water is crystal clear after each cleaning session. The easy-access design makes it simple to empty and clean the filter after each use.
Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC also comes with a top-load filter basket that captures small debris and dust. However, it may not be as effective as the Active 15 in handling finer particles, which means additional manual cleaning may be necessary for achieving the same level of water clarity. Its filter basket is still easy to remove, clean, and replace, making it user-friendly.
User-Friendliness and Maintenance
Dolphin Active 15
One of the standout features of the Dolphin Active 15 is its user-friendly design. With just one button to start, the setup is straightforward. Additionally, it comes with energy-saving capabilities that reduce electricity costs, making it an environmentally friendly option. The quick-release filter system and lightweight design also contribute to the overall convenience and ease of maintenance.
Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC is similarly simple to operate with its plug-and-play functionality. While it doesn’t include as many advanced energy-saving features as the Active 15, its overall maintenance requirements are minimal. Users need only to regularly empty the filter basket, and occasional brush checks are recommended to ensure optimal performance.
Mobility and Portability
Dolphin Active 15
The Active 15 is specifically designed to be lightweight and easy to carry, even for those with limited mobility. It weighs approximately 13 pounds, which makes it easy to handle. The design also includes integrated handles for lifting in and out of the pool.
Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC is also relatively lightweight, but slightly heavier than the Active 15. Weighing in around 16 pounds, it remains portable, though users with limited strength may find it a bit more challenging to carry. This model also features a handle for easy lifting, which helps to compensate for its extra weight.
Price and Value for Money
Dolphin Active 15
Priced higher than the Nautilus CC, the Dolphin Active 15 offers premium features and enhanced cleaning performance that justifies its cost for those looking for top-tier pool maintenance. Its energy efficiency and durable design may also result in long-term savings, especially for larger pools or those with heavy debris.
Nautilus CC
The Nautilus CC is an affordable, budget-friendly option that still delivers solid cleaning performance. It may lack some of the premium features found in the Active 15, but it’s a practical choice for pool owners who want effective cleaning without the higher price tag. It provides good value for smaller or simpler pools where intense scrubbing and navigation are less critical.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Active 10
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Nautilus CC
Which Pool Cleaner Is Right for You?
Choosing between the Dolphin Active 15 and the Nautilus CC ultimately depends on your specific pool cleaning needs and budget. If you have a larger or more complex pool, need deeper cleaning, and are willing to invest in a high-performance model, the Dolphin Active 15 may be your best option. It offers superior cleaning power, enhanced navigation, and additional energy savings.
On the other hand, if you’re looking for a cost-effective, dependable cleaner for a smaller or straightforward pool layout, the Nautilus CC provides excellent value. While it lacks some advanced features, it’s easy to operate and reliable for regular cleaning tasks.
Product Videos
Conclusion
Both the Dolphin Active 15 and the Nautilus CC are exceptional robotic pool cleaners designed to make pool maintenance simpler and more efficient. The Dolphin Active 15 excels in power, efficiency, and advanced technology, making it ideal for larger, dirtier, or more complex pools. Meanwhile, the Nautilus CC stands out for its affordability, simplicity, and reliability in basic pool settings. Evaluating your pool’s unique needs will help you make the best choice for maintaining crystal-clear water all season long.
