When it comes to top-of-the-line robotic pool cleaners, both the Dolphin Explorer E70 vs Dolphin Sigma are premium contenders tailored for in-ground pools. Each offers an impressive set of features including waterline scrubbing, advanced navigation, and heavy-duty cleaning components. But which one is the better fit for your pool? This detailed comparison uncovers the strengths and differences that matter most.
Contents
Differences Between Dolphin Explorer E70 vs Dolphin Sigma
Design Comparison
Both models are designed for in-ground pools up to 50 feet in length and come with a 60-foot anti-tangle swivel cable that ensures smooth operation without snags or disruptions. The Explorer E70 has a rugged yet polished design with slightly more vertical height, while the Sigma features a wide and low-slung body for increased stability underwater.
In terms of handling, both models weigh just under 25 pounds, making them manageable for most users. The Explorer E70’s edge lies in its Pick Me Up mode, which commands the robot to rise to the waterline for easy removal—an ergonomic advantage during pool maintenance.
Winner: Dolphin Explorer E70
Its Pick Me Up feature makes the Explorer E70 more user-friendly, especially when removing the unit from the water.
Cleaning Performance Comparison
The Dolphin Sigma is engineered with three powerful front-mounted brushes, providing aggressive scrubbing across every pool surface. These triple brushes give it superior reach, especially in complex geometries. Its suction rate is rated at 4500 GPH, which pairs well with its fine and ultra-fine top-loading filtration cartridges to capture both microscopic particles and larger debris.
On the other hand, the Explorer E70 uses dual high-speed active brushes and boosts cleaning power with a slightly higher 5000 GPH suction rate. Its multi-layer basket provides advanced separation of fine debris and leaves, reducing filter clogging. Runtime options include 1.5-, 2-, and 2.5-hour cycles, offering more flexibility depending on pool conditions, while the Sigma runs a fixed 2.5-hour cycle.
Both models are capable of scrubbing the waterline, one of the most critical areas for algae and scum build-up. However, the Sigma’s triple brush setup does provide a small edge in brute scrubbing coverage for oddly shaped pools.
Winner: Dolphin Sigma
The triple brush design and deep coverage make the Sigma slightly more effective for irregular or heavily used pools, despite the Explorer’s higher suction and flexible runtime.
Feature Comparison
The Explorer E70 stands out with its blend of Wi-Fi connectivity and MyDolphin Plus app control, allowing full access to scheduling, manual navigation, cycle selection, and status updates. It also features a Pick Me Up mode that instructs the robot to ascend to a side wall for easy retrieval. Additional options include delay start and customized weekly scheduling, offering precise control for pool maintenance routines.
The Dolphin Sigma also includes full Wi-Fi and app support, compatible with the MyDolphin Plus app. It uses SmartNav 3.0 technology, one of Maytronics’ most advanced navigation systems, enabling strategic scanning and route optimization. Although the Sigma doesn’t include the Pick Me Up function, it excels in optimized cleaning paths and efficient movement throughout large or uniquely shaped pools.
Winner: Dolphin Explorer E70
While both offer strong app integration, the Explorer E70’s Pick Me Up and multiple smart cycle options make it more interactive and convenient for daily use.
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Explorer E70
Quick Rundown Of Dolphin Sigma
Conclusion
Choose Dolphin Explorer E70 if you want modern smart features with highly intuitive control, faster cleaning cycles, stronger suction, and an easier retrieval process via Pick Me Up. It’s an ideal fit for users seeking a seamless hands-off experience with consistent cleaning results.
Choose Dolphin Sigma if your pool requires deep, aggressive scrubbing—especially in complex pool layouts or areas with excessive algae. The triple brushes and SmartNav 3.0 scanning offer outstanding full-pool coverage with intelligent navigation.
Overall Winner: Dolphin Explorer E70
With its higher suction, multi-speed cycles, app-based control, and unmatched convenience through Pick Me Up, the Explorer E70 delivers a more versatile and user-friendly cleaning solution for modern pool owners who prioritize smart functionality alongside powerful cleaning performance.