Dolphin S400
#12 in CordedFull review
A fully equipped dealer-line robot for large pools, though the Explorer E50 offers similar features for less.
Leslie's $1,784$1,784
The Dolphin S400 is the better robotic pool cleaner overall, rated 3.6 to 3.0. The Dolphin S400 leads on warranty. The Hayward TigerShark QC costs $295 less ($1,489 vs $1,784).
Hayward TigerShark QC
#34 in CordedFull review
The TigerShark with a quick 90-minute cycle, worth the small premium for most buyers.
Leslie's $1,489 Walmart $1,489 ePoolSupply $1,489$1,489
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 S400 for warranty (2-year warranty vs 1-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 S400 | Hayward TigerShark QC |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.6/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Value 25% | 15 $1,784 | 23 $1,489 |
| Cleaning 25% | 85 Floor, walls and waterline | 85 Floor, walls and waterline |
| Navigation 15% | 50 navigation not published (neutral score used) | 35 Programmed pattern |
| Warranty 15% | 50 2-year warranty | 0 1-year warranty |
| Pool size 10% | 100 pools up to 50 ft long (about 1,250 sq ft) | 56 pools up to 40 ft long (about 800 sq ft) |
| Features 10% | 100 4 of 4 | 50 too few features published (neutral score used) |
Specifications
| Dolphin S400 | Hayward TigerShark QC | |
|---|---|---|
| Pool | ||
| Pool size (rated) | Up to 50 ft long | Up to 40 ft long |
| Pool types | In-ground and above-ground | In-ground |
| Surfaces | - | Gunite, vinyl, fiberglass, pebble |
| Cleaning | ||
| Cleans | Floor, walls and waterline | Floor, walls and waterline |
| Surface skimming | No | No |
| Filter | Multi-Layer, top access | Cartridge filter |
| Water flow | 4,000 gal/h | - |
| Power | ||
| Power | Corded | Corded, 55 ft cable |
| Run time | Longest cycle 2 h 30 min | Longest cycle 4 h |
| Swivel cable | Yes | - |
| Navigation & app | ||
| Navigation | - | Programmed pattern |
| App | Yes | No |
| Scheduling | Yes | - |
| Caddy included | Yes | - |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 18.5 lb (8.4 kg) | 21.5 lb (9.8 kg) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1 year |