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 3.8. The Dolphin Explorer E40 leads on warranty. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ costs $150 less ($1,149 vs $1,299).
Polaris PCX 868 iQ
#4 in CordedFull review
A mid-priced app-controlled Polaris for in-ground pools up to 50 ft.
Leslie's $1,149 Walmart $1,149$1,149
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 | Polaris PCX 868 iQ |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 4.0/5 | 3.8/5 |
| Value 25% | 28 $1,299 | 34 $1,149 |
| Cleaning 25% | 85 Floor, walls and waterline | 85 Floor, walls and waterline |
| Navigation 15% | 50 navigation not published (neutral score used) | 50 navigation not published (neutral score used) |
| 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 | 100 4 of 4 |
Specifications
| Dolphin Explorer E40 | Polaris PCX 868 iQ | |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ||
| Pool size (rated) | Up to 50 ft long | Up to 50 ft long |
| Pool types | In-ground | In-ground |
| Surfaces | - | All in-ground surfaces |
| Cleaning | ||
| Cleans | Floor, walls and waterline | Floor, walls and waterline |
| Surface skimming | No | No |
| Filter | Fine Filter Kit, top access | 4 L all-purpose canister, transparent lid |
| Filter capacity | - | 4 L |
| Water flow | 4,500 gal/h | - |
| Power | ||
| Power | Corded | Corded, 60 ft cable |
| Run time | Longest cycle 2 h 30 min | - |
| Swivel cable | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation & app | ||
| App | Yes | Yes |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi |
| Scheduling | Yes | Yes |
| Retrieval | - | Easy Lift from the app or control box |
| Caddy included | - | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 24.6 lb (11.2 kg) | 22 lb (10 kg) |
| Warranty | 3 years | 2 years |