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 3.6. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ leads on value. The Polaris PCX 868 iQ costs $635 less ($1,149 vs $1,784).
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
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 value ($1,149 vs $1,784).
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 S400 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.8/5 | 3.6/5 |
| Value 25% | 34 $1,149 | 15 $1,784 |
| 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 S400 | |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | - |
| Scheduling | Yes | Yes |
| Retrieval | Easy Lift from the app or control box | - |
| Caddy included | Yes | Yes |
| Build | ||
| Weight | 22 lb (10 kg) | 18.5 lb (8.4 kg) |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |