Finding the best robotic pool cleaner for your pool can make all the difference in maintaining a pristine, inviting swimming space without the hassle of manual cleaning. Here, we break down the key features, strengths, and distinctions between the Dolphin Active 20 and the Dolphin S200. This comprehensive guide will help you determine which of these popular Maytronics models is best suited for your pool cleaning needs.
Contents
- Overview of the Dolphin Active 20 and Dolphin S200
- Design and Build Quality
- Cleaning Capabilities
- Advanced Filtration System
- Energy Efficiency and Power Supply
- Mobility and Navigation
- Programmability and Control Options
- Maintenance and Ease of Use
- Price Comparison and Overall Value
- Product Videos
- Conclusion: Choosing Between the Dolphin Active 20 and S200
Overview of the Dolphin Active 20 and Dolphin S200
Both the Dolphin Active 20 and Dolphin S200 are highly rated robotic pool cleaners known for their robust features, user-friendly operation, and efficient cleaning capabilities. Both models fall in the mid-range price category, offering high performance without the cost of more advanced models, making them a popular choice among pool owners.
| Dolphin Active 20 | Dolphin S200 | |
| Weight | 18,35 pounds | 17.93 pounds |
| Size | 22.24×17.6 x13.19 inches | 22,24x 17.6 x 12.87 inches |
| Pool Size | Up to 50 Ft | Up to 50 Ft |
| Pool Type | In-Ground | In-Ground |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel Cable | Yes | Yes |
| Cable Length | 60 feet | 60 feet |
| Filter Type | Fine, Ultra Fine | Fine, Ultra Fine |
| Filter Access | Top Access | Top Access |
| Filter Description | Extra Large Basket, Top-load | Extra Large Basket, Top-load |
| Cleaning Coverage | Floor, Walls, Waterline | Floor, Walls, Waterline |
| Cleaning Mode(s) | Standard | Standard |
| Cleaning Cycle(s) | 2 Hours | 2 Hours |
| Mobility | PowerStream | PowerStream |
| Suction Rate | 4000 gph | 4000 gph |
| Number of Brushes | 2 Brushes | 2 Brushes |
| Waterline Scrubbing | Yes | Yes |
| 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 | Yes | Yes |
| Cycle Selector | No | No |
| Delay Mode | No | No |
| Full Bag Indicator | No | No |
| Delay Feature | No | No |
| Automation Mode | Yes | Yes |
| More | Buy Now At Amazon | Buy Now At Amazon |
Design and Build Quality
Maytronics has designed both the Dolphin Active 20 and the Dolphin S200 with durable casings and compact frames. Both models are engineered to withstand the regular exposure to chemicals and sun that comes with constant pool use.
Differences in Design:
- The Dolphin Active 20 has a slightly more streamlined look, making it easy to maneuver in and out of the pool. Its design emphasizes portability, featuring ergonomic handles and a lighter frame, which is convenient for storage.
- The Dolphin S200 has a sturdier build with a larger handle, which provides a secure grip for handling, especially useful for larger pools or frequent deep cleaning. This model is also slightly heavier, which helps it stabilize while navigating deeper pools.
Cleaning Capabilities
When it comes to cleaning power, both the Active 20 and S200 provide impressive performance. Each model is equipped with dual scrubbing brushes and CleverClean™ scanning technology, which allows the cleaner to map out an efficient cleaning path across all pool areas, including floors, walls, and waterlines. This technology ensures that every part of the pool is thoroughly cleaned, regardless of shape or layout.
- The Active 20 is designed for pools up to 33 feet and offers a 90-minute cleaning cycle, making it an ideal choice for small to medium-sized pools.
- The S200 is capable of a longer 120-minute cleaning cycle and is suited for larger pools, giving it the time needed for comprehensive coverage in deeper areas or more complex pool shapes.
Dual Scrubbing Brushes: Both models feature dual active brushes that rotate at a higher speed than the robot’s movement. This dual brush system is efficient for removing stubborn dirt, algae, and biofilm from pool surfaces. The combination of a front high-speed brush and a secondary scrub brush allows both the Active 20 and S200 to tackle even the toughest buildup on pool surfaces.
Advanced Filtration System
Both the Active 20 and S200 feature high-quality multi-layer filtration systems. These systems include fine and ultra-fine filter cartridges, enabling the cleaner to trap large debris, like leaves and bugs, as well as small particles, such as sand and pollen. This adaptability allows users to choose between filters based on current pool conditions.
- The Active 20 is typically shipped with a fine filter basket that handles large debris well. While ultra-fine filters can be purchased separately, they are not included by default.
- S200 includes both fine and ultra-fine filters in its initial package, making it ready for detailed cleaning from day one. The ultra-fine filter option is ideal for areas with fine dust, pollen, or smaller debris that can accumulate in the pool over time.
The filtration system is designed with top-access filter compartments, making maintenance quick and easy for both models. Users can simply lift the top cover, remove the filters, rinse them, and reinsert without any complex assembly or disassembly.
Energy Efficiency and Power Supply
Both models are designed to be energy-efficient, operating on low voltage to save on power while ensuring thorough cleaning.
Differences in Energy Usage:
- The Active 20, with its 90-minute cleaning cycle, is tailored for energy-saving performance, making it an optimal choice for those who prioritize efficiency or use their cleaner frequently.
- The S200, which runs on a longer 120-minute cycle, uses slightly more energy. However, this extended cycle is beneficial for larger pools, as it gives the S200 extra time to cover every area comprehensively. While this does result in marginally higher energy use, the deep-clean capability can save time in the long run by reducing the need for frequent cleaning.
Both models use a plug-and-play power supply system, which connects easily for quick setup. The power supplies are water-resistant and include easy-start buttons, giving users immediate control over their cleaning cycles.
Both the Active 20 and S200 use PowerStream™ technology, which generates a multi-directional water stream to enhance stability and mobility on vertical surfaces. This technology improves the cleaner’s ability to climb walls and stay firmly attached to pool surfaces while scrubbing.
Differences in Maneuverability:
- Active 20 is more agile, with slightly faster movement, making it well-suited for quick, efficient cleaning in smaller pools. The cleaner’s lightweight design also helps it maneuver easily along walls and waterlines.
- S200 has greater weight and stability, which allows it to maintain a steady grip on pool walls, even in larger or deeper pools. The enhanced stability makes it particularly effective at cleaning textured or rough surfaces, where more consistent pressure is needed.
Programmability and Control Options
One of the main points of differentiation between the Active 20 and S200 is the control and scheduling features.
- The Active 20 supports weekly scheduling through its power supply. Users can set the robot to clean daily, every other day, or every third day, offering flexible scheduling options for hands-free maintenance.
- The S200 lacks built-in scheduling, meaning users need to manually start the cleaner each time. However, this manual control can be beneficial for pools that don’t require daily cleaning, as it allows the user to decide when the pool needs attention.
Maintenance and Ease of Use
Maintaining either the Dolphin Active 20 or S200 is straightforward, thanks to their top-load filter cartridges and user-friendly design. Both models have top-access filtration, which allows users to remove and clean the filters without any hassle.
The cleaning and upkeep process involves:
- Lifting the filter basket out of the top compartment.
- Rinsing the filters with a hose to remove collected debris.
- Reinserting the filter basket for the next cleaning cycle.
Price Comparison and Overall Value
When considering the cost vs. benefits, both models provide excellent value for their features, but the Dolphin Active 20 is typically more affordable than the S200. However, each model’s price reflects its performance strengths.
- The Dolphin Active 20 is generally the better value for small to medium pools or budget-conscious buyers who don’t require additional cleaning power or dual-filter capability right out of the box.
- The S200, while slightly more expensive, comes with dual filter types and a longer cleaning cycle, making it ideal for larger pools with more demanding cleaning needs. The investment in the S200 may reduce the number of sessions needed, saving time and potential maintenance costs.
Product Videos
Conclusion: Choosing Between the Dolphin Active 20 and S200
Selecting between the Dolphin Active 20 and S200 ultimately depends on your pool’s specific needs and your preferences:
Choose Dolphin Active 20 if: You have a smaller pool, need a quick and efficient clean, prefer a budget-friendly model, and value the convenience of weekly scheduling options.
Choose Dolphin S200 if: You have a larger or deeper pool, need an extended cleaning cycle, require dual-filter options right out of the box, or prefer a model with stronger scrubbing capability.
Both models deliver the quality, efficiency, and reliability that Maytronics is known for, making pool maintenance easier and more enjoyable.
