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
The Polaris PCX 868 iQ and the Dolphin Explorer E50 are evenly matched, rated 3.8 and 3.7. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ costs $180 less ($1,149 vs $1,329).
Dolphin Explorer E50
#8 in CordedFull review
A well-equipped Wi-Fi robot for 50 ft pools, for owners who want a filter-full warning and a caddy.
Maytronics $1,329 Pool Express $1,629$1,329
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.
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 | Polaris PCX 868 iQ | Dolphin Explorer E50 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.7/5 |
| Value 25% | 34 $1,149 | 27 $1,329 |
| 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% | 50 2-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 4 of 4 | 100 4 of 4 |
Specifications
| Polaris PCX 868 iQ | Dolphin Explorer E50 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ||
| Pool size (rated) | Up to 50 ft long | Up to 50 ft long |
| Pool types | In-ground | In-ground and above-ground |
| Surfaces | All in-ground surfaces | - |
| Cleaning | ||
| Cleans | Floor, walls and waterline | Floor, walls and waterline |
| Surface skimming | No | No |
| Filter | 4 L all-purpose canister, transparent lid | Multi-Layer, top access |
| Filter capacity | 4 L | - |
| Water flow | - | 4,000 gal/h |
| Power | ||
| Power | Corded, 60 ft cable | Corded |
| 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 | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 22 lb (10 kg) | 19.2 lb (8.7 kg) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |