Dolphin Explorer E40 vs Polaris 9550 Sport

Last updated: October 21, 2026

The Dolphin Explorer E40 is the better robotic pool cleaner overall, rated 4.0 to 3.6. The Polaris 9550 Sport wins on value. The Polaris 9550 Sport costs $300 less ($999 vs $1,299).

Dolphin Explorer E40 vs Polaris 9550 Sport

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?

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 weightDolphin Explorer E40Polaris 9550 Sport
Overall rating4.0/53.6/5
Value 25%28 $1,29940 $999
Cleaning 25%85 Floor, walls and waterline85 Floor, walls and waterline
Navigation 15%50 navigation not published (neutral score used)50 Sensor-based
Warranty 15%100 3-year warranty50 warranty not published (neutral score used)
Pool size 10%100 pools up to 50 ft long (about 1,250 sq ft)50 pool size not published (neutral score used)
Features 10%100 3 of 375 3 of 4; no app control

Specifications

Dolphin Explorer E40Polaris 9550 Sport
Pool
Pool size (rated)Up to 50 ft long-
Pool typesIn-groundIn-ground
Cleaning
CleansFloor, walls and waterlineFloor, walls and waterline
Surface skimmingNoNo
FilterFine Filter Kit, top access5 L canister with dirty-canister indicator
Filter capacity-5 L
Water flow4,500 gal/h-
Power
PowerCordedCorded, 70 ft cable
Run timeLongest cycle 2 h 30 min-
Swivel cableYesYes
Navigation & app
Navigation-Sensor-based
AppYesNo
ConnectivityWi-Fi-
SchedulingYesYes
Retrieval-Easy Lift System
Caddy included-Yes
Build
Weight24.6 lb (11.2 kg)-
Warranty3 years-