Dolphin Explorer E40
#1 in CordedFull review
A full-coverage Wi-Fi robot for large in-ground pools, with a three-year warranty and extra scrubbing.
Amazon $1,299 Maytronics $1,499 Walmart $1,449 ePoolSupply $1,449$1,299
The Dolphin Explorer E40 is the better robotic pool cleaner overall, rated 4.0 to 3.6. The Dolphin Explorer E40 leads on warranty. The Hayward R130 costs $47.05 less ($1,251.95 vs $1,299).
Hayward R130
#13 in CordedFull review
Hayward’s newer, lighter robot for in-ground or above-ground pools up to 50 ft, with a weekly timer.
ePoolSupply $1,251.95$1,251.95
Prices were last checked October 21, 2026 and are subject to change; the price and availability shown by the retailer at the time of purchase apply.
Which should you buy?
- Choose the Dolphin Explorer E40 for warranty (3-year warranty vs 2-year warranty).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every corded robotic pool cleaner; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Dolphin Explorer E40 | Hayward R130 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.0/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Value 25% | 28 $1,299 | 30 $1,252 |
| Cleaning 25% | 85 Floor, walls and waterline | 85 Floor, walls and waterline |
| Navigation 15% | 50 navigation not published (neutral score used) | 50 Smart navigation |
| Warranty 15% | 100 3-year warranty | 50 2-year warranty |
| Pool size 10% | 100 pools up to 50 ft long (about 1,250 sq ft) | 100 pools up to 50 ft long (about 1,250 sq ft) |
| Features 10% | 100 3 of 3 | 50 2 of 4; no app control, caddy |
Specifications
| Dolphin Explorer E40 | Hayward R130 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ||
| Pool size (rated) | Up to 50 ft long | Up to 50 ft long |
| Pool types | In-ground | In-ground and above-ground |
| Surfaces | - | Any pool surface |
| Cleaning | ||
| Cleans | Floor, walls and waterline | Floor, walls and waterline |
| Surface skimming | No | No |
| Filter | Fine Filter Kit, top access | Extra-large top-load basket with fine and ultra-fine panels |
| Water flow | 4,500 gal/h | - |
| Power | ||
| Power | Corded | Corded |
| Run time | Longest cycle 2 h 30 min | - |
| Swivel cable | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation & app | ||
| Navigation | - | Smart navigation |
| App | Yes | No |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | - |
| Scheduling | Yes | Yes |
| Caddy included | - | No |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 24.6 lb (11.2 kg) | 16.5 lb (7.5 kg) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |