By Justin D. • April 16th, 2025
Looking for a robotic pool cleaner that takes the hassle out of scrubbing, cleaning, and vacuuming? Say hello to the Dolphin Premier—your pool's new best friend. Built with commercial-grade motors and engineered for top of class performance, this cleaner isn't just a robot; it's a game-changer.
The Dolphin Premier was my #1 choice for Best Robotic Pool Cleaner after testing nearly 30+ robotic pool cleaners in my pool.
Why? Mulit-Media and NanoFiltration. No other robot I've tested has come close to the filtration and power of the Premier's commercial-grade motors.
USA Today named it the "Best Robotic Pool Cleaner," and they're onto something. After testing over 30 pool robots in my pool, I can confidently say the Dolphin Premier takes the crown as the Best Robotic Pool Cleaner. Let me walk you through why this robotic pool cleaner is worth every penny — and why your pool will thank you.
Commercial-Grade Performance
The Dolphin Premier delivers commercial-grade cleaning power — without draining your wallet like $2,000 dollar plus commercial units do. Packed with features in a sleek, modern design, this updated model hits all the right notes for pool owners: performance, flexibility, and rock-solid reliability. Whether you're sick of endless manual scrubbing or just want crystal-clear water without lifting a finger, the Premier's got you covered.
Here's the kicker: it's a professional-grade cleaner cleverly disguised as a consumer product. Sharing the same platform, motors, and frame as the $2,000+ Dolphin Wave 75, the Premier takes it up a notch with added residential features you'll actually use.
With a Weekly Smart Timer, SmartNav 2.0 navigation, and Multi-Media filtration, this robot practically handles everything for you. All you need to do is press the power button and let it take over. So, let's jump in and explore what makes the Dolphin Premier such a standout.
ProLine Robot – Built to Handle Anything
The Premier by Maytronics is part of the ProLine series, meaning it's built like a tank and designed to tackle the toughest conditions. Whether it's dust, leaves, or stubborn algae stuck to the walls, the Premier can handle it. It's ready to clean anywhere with just the press of a button.
What I noticed while testing it, is how effortlessly it handled even the dirtiest pool which was created after one of those wild Texas storms. It's the kind of robot you can count on to keep your pool spotless, no constant check-ins or babysitting required. Just set the Weekly Smart Timer, and this little powerhouse takes care of the daily grind, leaving you free to enjoy your pool.
Dual Commercial-Grade Motors
Let's talk power—because the Dolphin Premier doesn't just clean; it takes charge. With dual commercial-grade motors, this robot delivers unmatched suction and a powerful scrubbing performance that leaves other cleaners in the dust. With over 4,500 gallons per hour of suction power—three times more than many top competitors—it out performed every other pool cleaner I've tested.
These motors don't just pack a punch—they're built to go the distance. Designed for longevity, they deliver years of dependable cleaning without the constant worry of breakdowns. In fact, our Premier has been running strong for over three years without a single hiccup.
There are even reports online of the Dolphin Premier lasting over 10 years and still going strong. While the model has evolved and changed over the years, like with the addition of the NanoFilters, Multi-Media, and upgraded SmartNav 2.0 with the current model, it is still a testament to the build quality you get with Dolphin and their ProLine models. That kind of reliability is hard to find, and it's exactly why this cleaner stands out.
Multi-Media – Customize How You Clean
This might be my favorite feature: the Premier's Multi-Media. Premier comes with 3 filter options in the box, allowing you to switch between modes depending on what your pool needs.
Got a bunch of leaves after a windy afternoon? Use the oversized leaf bag. Dealing with fine dust or pollen? Swap in the NanoFilters. Want a standard all-around clean? The standard filters are perfect for that.
I loved having the flexibility to choose how I wanted the robot to clean. It's like having different cleaning tools all in one device, which makes it feel less like a pool cleaner and more like a smart and adaptable pool cleaning assistant.
Plus, swapping out filters is easy. No complicated steps—just pop one out, pop another in, and you're ready to go. It takes me just a couple of seconds to switch.
And there is a 4th filter option as well: a disposable leaf bag. Having the optional leaf bag as well means you can really load this robot up for heavy-duty cleaning without worrying about it getting clogged. Just drop Premier in to clean up the dirtiest pool and then throw the bag away. That's zero cleaning. It's a nice touch that makes a big difference if you've got a lot of trees around your pool.
Weekly Timer – Set It and Forget It
Turning your robot on every day can be a chore, but with the Premier's weekly timer, it doesn't have to be. You can program it to clean on specific days, meaning you don't even have to be around for your pool to stay pristine. I loved how hands-off this made my routine. Once I set the timer, the Premier handled the rest without any input from me.
This is a must-have feature.
It completely automates your pool cleaning routine with the touch of a button. Whether you're out of town or just don't want to think about pool cleaning, the Premier keeps things under control. The peace of mind that your robot automatically cleans your pool for you, without lifting a finger, makes this feature well worth it.
Most pool cleaners don't include this feature, and especially not the budget cleaners, so make sure to look for it.
Waterline Cleaning – King of the Waterline
Most pool cleaners do a decent job of handling the floor and walls, but few excel at waterline cleaning. The Premier, however, is the king of the waterline.
Its advanced scrubbing brushes and HyperGrip tracks help it get right up to the waterline, removing that pesky buildup that tends to accumulate. After just a couple of sessions, I noticed that the usual grime along the pool's edge was completely gone.
If you're tired of manually scrubbing that stubborn line where the water meets the tile, you'll love this feature as much as I did. It's thorough, effective, and saves a ton of time.
Vacuuming Power – Clean Up Everything, Big or Small
The Dolphin Premier's vacuuming power is one of the first things you'll notice—and for good reason. It's like putting a turbocharger on your regular pool cleaner. Thanks to its dual commercial-grade motors, this robot doesn't just glide over debris—it aggressively pulls it in, whether it's large leaves or ultra-fine dirt particles. I've seen other robots slow down or struggle when dealing with heavier debris, but the Premier never skips a beat.
What stood out during my testing was how consistently it maintained suction power throughout the entire cleaning cycle. Some robots tend to lose steam as the basket fills up or a battery starts to die, but the Premier just keeps going thanks to its corded power. It's the kind of vacuuming strength that makes even the most stubborn grime feel like it never had a chance.
NanoFilters – Crystal Clear Water, Every Time
The Premier's NanoFilters are a game-changer. These NanoFilters pick up particles so small you probably didn't even realize they were in your pool. After using them, I could actually see a difference in the water clarity. It had that perfect, almost crystal clear sparkle after using the NanoFilters.
The NanoFilters also help keep your pool cleaner by removing fine debris that can contribute to algae growth. And unlike some pool cleaners that make filter maintenance a hassle, the Premier's filters are easy to remove, clean, and pop back in. Whether you're a pool owner who demands spotless water or just wants less time spent scrubbing, these filters are worth it.
The magic of the NanoFilters is their ability to catch what other pool robot filters simply can't. Compared to standard filters, they're like a fine-tooth comb for your pool water. When dirty water is poured through them, like in this clip (Paul, ask me for this clip, I shot in backyard), the filters stopped dirt and debris in their tracks, while standard filters on other Dolphin models would have let it all pass through.
With the Premier's dual NanoFilter setup, you're unlocking a deeper level of clean. These were hands-down my favorite during testing. They're incredibly easy to clean, capture an impressive amount of debris, and leave your water sparkling in a way that no other filter can. Plus, they're exclusive to Dolphin ProLine robots, so if you want this next-level filtration, make sure you your next robot has them.
HyperGrip Tracks – Advanced Traction That Sticks
Ever watched a robot scale a wall like it is defying gravity? That's what the Dolphin Premier does with its HyperGrip tracks. Unlike standard wheels that can slip or lose traction on slick pool surfaces, these specialized tracks dig in and hold steady, ensuring the robot doesn't miss a single spot. Whether it's climbing the vertical walls or gripping the slippery pool floor, the HyperGrip system delivers superior traction that keeps the cleaner moving smoothly.
In action, this means no awkward slipping or partial wall cleaning. It handles every surface, from concrete to fiberglass, without losing its grip. I noticed that even on areas with a little algae buildup, where other robots might struggle, the Premier didn't flinch. It's like giving your pool cleaner hiking boots instead of flip-flops—better traction means better cleaning.
Anti-Tangle Swivel Cable – A Cord That Won't Drive You Crazy
If you've ever used a corded pool cleaner, you know that cables can tangle and interrupt cleaning. Not with the Dolphin Premier. Its anti-tangle swivel cable rotates smoothly, preventing the dreaded cord tangle that can stop a cleaning session in its tracks.
I was skeptical the first time I saw it, but after a few weeks of testing, I can confirm—this feature works. No more babysitting the robot or pulling it out mid-clean to untangle the cord. It's one of those seemingly small things that actually makes a huge difference in usability. You set it, forget it, and let the Premier do its thing without worrying about tangled cords.
SmartNav 2.0 – Smarter Cleaning, Faster Results
The Dolphin Premier isn't just strong—it's smart, too. Thanks to its SmartNav 2.0 navigation system, it scans and maps your pool for the most efficient cleaning path. Unlike older models that randomly meander around, hoping to hit every spot, the Premier knows where it's been and where it still needs to go.
I noticed the difference right away. It doesn't waste time going over the same areas repeatedly, and it rarely misses any part of the pool. Even oddly shaped pools don't throw it off—it figures out the layout quickly and adapts. This not only saves time but also ensures a more thorough clean.
Energy Efficiency – Clean Pool, Lower Bills
Pool cleaning can quietly drain your energy budget—especially if you're stuck with an old model or a pressure-side cleaner tied to a power-hungry booster pump. That's where the Dolphin Premier flips the script. Thanks to its commercial-grade DC motors, it's a powerhouse of energy efficiency. In fact, it's 90% more efficient than those bulky pressure-side and suction-side cleaners that depend on high-powered pumps.
I'll admit, I was skeptical at first. But after a few weeks of regular use, I checked my energy usage and was genuinely impressed—my bill barely moved. It's living proof that top-notch cleaning doesn't have to come with a tradeoff in efficiency. Maytronics says it's up to 90% more efficient than older pressure-side systems, and after seeing it in action, I'm completely sold.
Quick Water Release – Easy to Lift, No Back-Breaking
One of the small but super convenient features of the Premier is its quick water release. After a cleaning cycle, you don't have to wrestle with a waterlogged robot that feels like lifting a soggy rock. Unlike cordless models with heavy batteries that I've tested, the Premier was super easy to retrieve from the pool. The quick water release system rapidly drains water as you lift it out of the pool, making the process much easier on your back. And with the weekly timer, I only had to pull it out once a week to clean the filter.
It might seem like a small thing, but if you've ever wrestled a waterlogged cleaner out of a deep pool, you'll get why this is such a game-changer. The Dolphin Premier makes the whole process effortless. It's one of those thoughtful details that you don't realize you need until you experience it. No straining, no heavy batteries, no awkward balancing act—just an easy, smooth lift that makes pool maintenance a little less of a chore and a lot more enjoyable.
Scrubbing Brushes – Dual Brushes for Deep Cleaning
The Dolphin Premier is equipped with dual scrubbing brushes on the front and back of the robot, designed to tackle even the most stubborn dirt. Whether it's fine sediment on the floor or algae stuck to the walls, these brushes work overtime to loosen and lift debris, leaving your pool spotless. They rotate quickly, providing continuous active scrubbing as the robot navigates your pool.
I noticed that after just one cleaning session, the pool looked noticeably brighter, especially around the waterline where grime tends to build up. Combined with the NanoFilters, the dual brushes do an excellent job of breaking up stubborn buildup and ensuring a deeper clean than what I've seen from other robots. Whether you're dealing with a regularly maintained pool or one that needs a serious refresh, the Premier's scrubbing power is more than up to the task.
Mozilla's FakeSpot Rating A
If you've followed along on my newer reviews, you'll notice I'm now including some of my deep research. One helpful tool I've been using is Mozilla's Fakespot. The same company behind the browser, FireFox, has this helpful tool to analyze reviews via an AI powered algorithm.
It will identify fake reviews and paid reviews to see if the reviews are authentic and not paid for. I love this too because it separates the fakes form the real deal. I can report the Dolphin Premier received an A grade – the highest you can get.
At first glance, it might not seem like a big deal, but it actually is. The reason is there are many robots out there with lousy FakeSpot grades hiding behind a mountain of glowing reviews. I was skeptical for years after seeing so many five-star ratings for Chinese made robots I personally thought were cordless junk. The answer? Fake reviews. It's frustrating but explains a lot.
Chinese made brands like Aiper, Beatbot, and Winny all received F grades. According to FakeSpot, their reviews online have questionable authenticity. I'm not really surprised based on my experience reviewing these units. Seeing them graded in the F category was disappointing, but after testing these cleaners myself, it all made sense.
Don't take Amazon reviews at face value. I've come across plenty of cordless cleaners from other brands that turned out to be junk—more money spent on flashy marketing and fake reviews than on making a decent product. But that isn't the case with the Dolphin Premier. That's a whole different story. It delivers exactly what it promises, without the gimmicks.
While there isn't as much flashy marketing hype behind it, I found the Dolphin Premier to align with its rating: an A+. It's a solid, powerful robotic pool cleaner that combines automation, top level filtration, and commercial motors to provide one of the best performances I've seen.
Longer 3-Year Warranty – Peace of Mind for the Long Haul
When you're putting your money into a high-end pool cleaner, a solid warranty isn't optional—it's a necessity. That's why the Dolphin Premier's 3-year warranty stands out, offering 50% more coverage than most. It's a clear sign of the confidence Maytronics has in the Premier's durability. For me, knowing I had three full years of protection took all the risk out of the purchase and made it feel like a savvy investment in my pool.
Comparing the Dolphin Premier to Other Top Dolphin Pool Cleaners
Dolphin Premier vs. Dolphin Sigma
The Dolphin Premier and Sigma are both top-tier ProLine models, but they cater to slightly different needs. Both share the same commercial-grade platform, come equipped with NanoFilters, and offer convenient Weekly Scheduling. Both units come with the same 3 year warranty.
The Sigma is several hundred dollars more and has a bit more tech, featuring Wi-Fi connectivity, a gyroscope, and remote control through the MyDolphin Plus app. There's a downside though, you'll give up the physical controls on the power supply which forces you to use the app. The Premier, meanwhile, doubles down on the tried, true and reliable push button controls and raw cleaning power. The real difference maker is the Premier Multi-Media system.
If digital connectivity is your priority, the Sigma's your pick. But if you want the same powerhouse cleaning performance in a robot that delivers incredible value, the Premier is the way to go.
Dolphin Premier vs. Dolphin Quantum
The Dolphin Quantum stands out with its massive MaxBin filter and powerful dual scrubbing bushes. While it does feature NanoFilters, it falls short of the Premier's versatility since it lacks the Multi-Media system and Leaf Bag. That means you don't get the same level of flexibility for tackling different types of debris.
The Premier takes cleaning efficiency up a notch, handling everything from fine debris to larger leaves with ease. And when you factor in the Premier's 3-year warranty versus the Quantum's 2-year coverage, it pulls ahead as the better value for those who want performance and peace of mind.
Dolphin Premier vs. Dolphin Cayman
At only around $800, the Dolphin Cayman is a compact, lightweight choice that's ideal for smaller pools or budget-conscious buyers. It punches above its weight, but it doesn't quite match the Premier when it comes to suction power, filter options, or warranty coverage.
However, if you want a solid cleaning option at a lower price, the Cayman gets the job done without breaking the bank. And it's a better choice than every battery operated robot sold today. With the top-loading MaxBin and NanoFilters, it still is a solid pool cleaner at a fraction of the price – but can't match the performance and output of the Premier and its commercial performance.
Certified Open Box and Refurbished – A Budget-Friendly Option
Let me tell you a little secret I found online. If you're considering a Dolphin Premier but want to save money, offers Certified Open Box and Refurbished units. These aren't your average "used" products—they're thoroughly inspected, tested, and certified to perform like new. In fact, the description says many open-box units are just returns from customers who didn't even try the unit. For example, it a unit is shipped, lost in transit and then found, that's becomes an Open Box.
I've bought a certified open box pool cleaner before, and honestly, it felt like a brand-new unit. The only difference? I saved a significant amount of money on a product I was already buying. Plus, you still get a warranty, as long as you buy from an Authorized Dealer, so there's little risk involved. If you're looking for premium performance without the premium price tag, it's a smart way to go. Make sure to check them out on my deals page at: ThePoolNerd.com/Deals
Final Verdict? Pool Nerd Approved.
So what's my final verdict on the Dolphin Premier?
It's Pool Nerd Approved.
After putting the new Dolphin Premier to the test, I can confidently say it's one of the best robotic pool cleaners on the market today. With commercial-grade motors, customizable filter options, a longer warranty, and unbeatable cleaning performance, it ticks all the boxes for pool owners who want top-tier results without the hassle.
I genuinely loved using it—it delivered one of the best user experiences I've had with a pool cleaner. The combination of the Weekly Smart Timer and multiple filter options completely automated my routine, taking all the hassle out of pool maintenance and making the whole process feel effortless.
Whether you're dealing with large leaves, fine dirt, or stubborn algae, the Premier cleans like no other. And with features like Multi-Media cleaning and waterline scrubbing, it doesn't just clean—it elevates your pool maintenance game. For anyone who wants a true automatic pool cleaner that is powerful and dependable, the Dolphin Premier is worth every penny.
If you wanna keep nerding out over your pool, head on over to my deals page at ThePoolNerd.com/deals where I post the best deals on robotic pool cleaners and other pool equipment.
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