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 is the better robotic pool cleaner overall, rated 3.8 to 3.0. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ leads on cleaning. The Dolphin Proteus DX1 wins on value. The Dolphin Proteus DX1 costs $550 less ($599 vs $1,149).
Dolphin Proteus DX1
#33 in CordedFull review
Leslie’s entry Dolphin for above-ground pools up to 33 ft.
Leslie's $599$599
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 Polaris PCX 868 iQ for cleaning (Floor, walls and waterline vs Floor only).
- Choose the Dolphin Proteus DX1 for value ($599 vs $1,149).
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 Proteus DX1 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 25% | 34 $1,149 | 62 $599 |
| Cleaning 25% | 85 Floor, walls and waterline | 20 Floor only |
| 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) | 27 pools up to 33 ft long (about 540 sq ft) |
| Features 10% | 100 4 of 4 | 50 too few features published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Polaris PCX 868 iQ | Dolphin Proteus DX1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ||
| Pool size (rated) | Up to 50 ft long | Up to 33 ft long |
| Pool types | In-ground | Above-ground |
| Surfaces | All in-ground surfaces | - |
| Max depth | - | 16.4 ft |
| Cleaning | ||
| Cleans | Floor, walls and waterline | Floor only |
| Surface skimming | No | No |
| Filter | 4 L all-purpose canister, transparent lid | Top-load basket, fine filter |
| Filter capacity | 4 L | - |
| Water flow | - | 4,000 gal/h |
| Power | ||
| Power | Corded, 60 ft cable | Corded, 40 ft cable |
| Run time | - | Longest cycle 1 h 30 min |
| Swivel cable | Yes | - |
| Navigation & app | ||
| App | Yes | - |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi | - |
| Scheduling | Yes | - |
| Retrieval | Easy Lift from the app or control box | - |
| Caddy included | Yes | - |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 22 lb (10 kg) | 13.8 lb (6.3 kg) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |