Dolphin vs Hayward: Robotic Pool Cleaners Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
When comparing a dolphin vs hayward robotic pool cleaner, you look at how each machine handles your specific pool shape and size. Both units are designed for in-ground pools and operate independently from your main filtration system. The main difference lies in their cleaning cycles and coverage focus. One model emphasizes rapid surface cleaning with a shorter cycle, while the other prioritizes wall climbing and scrubbing with a longer, more thorough pass. You need to decide which approach fits your maintenance schedule best.
Key differences
| Aspect | Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wall-Climbing Cleaner | Hayward TigerShark Quick Clean Pool Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Coverage | Walls | Floor, walls, coves, waterline |
| Cycle Time | 2 hours | 90 minutes (Quick Clean) or 3 hours (Complete) |
| Navigation Type | Smart Navigation | not listed |
| Special Features | Wall Climbing, Active Scrubbing | Cartridge Filter System |
| Power Source | not listed | 24-volt motor |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wall-Climbing Cleaner if
- You want a cleaner that specifically targets walls with an active scrubbing brush.
- You prefer a standard 2-hour cycle for consistent, thorough cleaning.
- You value smart navigation for efficient pathing in pools up to 40 feet.
Choose Hayward TigerShark Quick Clean Pool Vacuum if
- You need the fastest cleaning option available with a 90-minute quick cycle.
- You want coverage that includes coves and the waterline in addition to the floor and walls.
- You prefer a simpler filter maintenance process using a rinseable cartridge.
Verdict: Choose the Dolphin if you prioritize wall scrubbing and a dedicated two-hour cycle for in-ground pools up to 40 feet. Select the Hayward if you need faster results with a 90-minute quick clean or want comprehensive coverage of coves and waterlines. Both models remove debris without relying on your pool's main pump.
Dolphin vs Hayward: Key Spec Differences
Cleaning Coverage
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus focuses its active scrubbing brush on wall climbing. It ensures thorough cleaning on any pool surface, specifically targeting the vertical walls. The Hayward TigerShark offers broader coverage. It cleans the floor, walls, coves, and waterline. This means the Hayward handles the entire pool interior. The Dolphin concentrates on the walls. If you want a cleaner that tackles the waterline and coves automatically, the Hayward has the advantage. The Dolphin is specialized for vertical surfaces.
Cycle Speed
Time matters when you want to swim. The Hayward TigerShark features a Quick Clean cycle that finishes in 90 minutes. It also has a standard 3-hour complete cycle. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus takes 2 hours for its spotless clean. The Dolphin is faster than the Hayward's full cycle. However, the Hayward's Quick Clean option is significantly quicker than both Dolphin cycles. If you need a fast clean before guests arrive, the Hayward's 90-minute mode is the clear winner. The Dolphin offers a steady two-hour routine.
Pool Size Limits
You must match the cleaner to your pool dimensions. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is ideal for in-ground pools up to 40 feet in length. The Hayward TigerShark is rated for in-ground residential pools up to 20 by 40 feet. The Dolphin specifies a maximum length of 40 feet. The Hayward specifies a maximum area of 800 square feet. For a long, narrow pool, the Dolphin's length limit is explicit. The Hayward covers a standard rectangular footprint well. Both handle large residential pools effectively.
Physical Build
Size and weight affect storage and handling. The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus measures 16 inches by 16 inches by 10 inches. It weighs 20.8 pounds. The Hayward TigerShark measures 15.5 inches by 16.5 inches by 11.5 inches. It weighs 21.5 pounds. The Dolphin is slightly lighter and more compact in width. The Hayward is slightly taller and wider. The difference is minimal. Both units are heavy enough to require care when lifting. The Dolphin is marginally easier to move due to its lower weight.
Filter Maintenance
Emptying the filter is a regular task. The Dolphin uses a top-load filter basket. You remove debris easily for crystal-clear water. The Hayward uses a unique cartridge filter system. You open the cleaner, remove the cartridge, and rinse it with a hose. The Dolphin design allows for quick access from the top. The Hayward requires opening the unit to access the cartridge. Both methods are straightforward. The Dolphin's top-load design might be slightly more convenient for frequent checks. The Hayward's cartridge rinse is efficient for deep cleaning.
Which Robotic Pool Cleaner Fits Your Pool
Owner of a large in-ground pool
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus supports pools up to 40 feet in length. Its smart navigation and wall-climbing capability ensure vertical surfaces receive attention. You get a complete clean in two hours. This model is ideal if your pool is on the larger side and you need reliable wall scrubbing power for thorough maintenance.
User wanting faster cleaning cycles
The Hayward TigerShark offers a Quick Clean cycle that finishes in just 90 minutes. This is significantly faster than the standard three-hour complete cycle. If you need a rapid refresh of your pool without waiting for a full deep clean, this speed advantage makes it a practical choice for busy schedules.
Buyer prioritizing broad surface coverage
The Hayward TigerShark cleans the floor, walls, coves, and waterline in a single pass. This comprehensive coverage ensures no area is missed during the standard cycle. If you want a machine that handles every horizontal and vertical surface type in your in-ground pool, this broader scope offers more complete results.
The products compared
Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wall-Climbing Cleaner
Best for: In-ground pools up to 40 feet
- Cleaning Coverage
- Walls
- Pool Type
- In-ground, up to 40 ft
- Navigation Type
- Smart Navigation
- Special Features
- Wall Climbing
- Ideal For
- In-Ground Pools
- Dimensions
- 16 × 10 × 16 inches
View on Amazon: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wall-Climbing Cleaner Affiliate link
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a wall-climbing robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 40 feet. It features smart navigation and an active scrubbing brush to eliminate manual effort. The unit measures 16 by 16 by 10 inches and weighs 20.8 pounds. It cleans walls and floors in about 2 hours using a top-load filter basket. This model suits you if you want thorough coverage without Wi-Fi connectivity.
Pros
- Cleans walls and floors with active scrubbing brush
- Smart navigation for efficient coverage
- Top-load filter basket for easy debris removal
- Plug-and-play operation in 2 hours
Cons
- No Wi-Fi or app control listed
- Heavier at 20.8 pounds than some competitors
- Limited to pools up to 40 feet
Good fit if
- You have an in-ground pool up to 40 feet
- You want wall cleaning without smart features
- You prefer simple plug-and-play operation
Skip if
- You need Wi-Fi connectivity for remote control
- Your pool exceeds 40 feet in length
- You want a lighter unit for easy handling
Verdict: Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus is a practical choice for owners of in-ground pools up to 40 feet who value wall scrubbing and simple operation over smart features.
Hayward TigerShark Quick Clean Pool Vacuum
Best for: Fast cleaning of in-ground pools up to 20 x 40 feet
- Cleaning Coverage
- Floor, walls, coves, waterline
- Pool Type
- In-ground, up to 20 x 40 ft
- Dimensions
- 15.5 × 16.5 × 11.5 inches
- Weight
- 21.5 pounds
View on Amazon: Hayward TigerShark Quick Clean Pool Vacuum Affiliate link
The Hayward TigerShark RC9990CUB is a robotic pool cleaner designed for in-ground pools up to 20 x 40 feet. It features a 24-volt motor and offers a 90-minute Quick Clean cycle for faster results. The unit covers the floor, walls, coves, and waterline independently of your pool's filtration system. It weighs 21.5 pounds and uses a simple cartridge filter system for easy maintenance.
Pros
- 90-minute Quick Clean cycle for faster cleaning
- Covers floor, walls, coves, and waterline
- Runs separately from pool filtration system
- Easy-to-rinse cartridge filter system
Cons
- Standard cycle is limited to 3 hours
- Heavier build at 21.5 pounds
- Larger footprint than some compact models
Good fit if
- You want a faster 90-minute cleaning cycle
- You have an in-ground pool up to 20 x 40 feet
- You prefer cleaning without extra hoses or pumps
Skip if
- You have a pool larger than 20 x 40 feet
- You need a cleaner for above-ground pools
- You prefer a lighter unit under 20 pounds
Verdict: Hayward TigerShark Quick Clean Pool Vacuum. This model fits you if you need a faster 90-minute cycle for an in-ground pool up to 20 x 40 feet and want to reduce filter backwash frequency.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus Wall-Climbing Cleaner | Hayward TigerShark Quick Clean Pool Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Coverage | Walls | Floor, walls, coves, waterline |
| Pool Type | In-ground, up to 40 ft | In-ground, up to 20 x 40 ft |
| Navigation Type | Smart Navigation | not stated |
| Special Features | Wall Climbing | not stated |
| Ideal For | In-Ground Pools | not stated |
| Dimensions | 16 × 10 × 16 inches | 15.5 × 16.5 × 11.5 inches |
| Weight | 20.8 pounds | 21.5 pounds |
| Size | Nautilus CC Plus | 11.50 x 16.50 x 15.50 inches |
| Color | black | Blue/Black/Grey |
| Model | Nautilus CC Plus | RC9990CUB |
Frequently asked questions
Does the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus climb walls?
Yes, it features wall climbing capabilities. This special function allows the unit to scrub vertical surfaces effectively. You get thorough coverage of the pool walls in addition to the floor. This makes it suitable for in-ground pools up to 40 feet long.
How long is the cleaning cycle for the Hayward TigerShark?
The Hayward TigerShark Quick Clean operates on a 90-minute cycle. This duration is designed for faster cleaning compared to standard models. It helps reduce the frequency of filter backwash. This model fits pools up to 20 by 40 feet.
What are the dimensions of the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus?
The Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus measures 16 inches in length, 16 inches in width, and 16 inches in height. It weighs 20.8 pounds. The unit is black in color. These dimensions allow it to fit standard in-ground pool sizes.
What are the dimensions of the Hayward TigerShark?
The Hayward TigerShark measures 15.5 inches in length, 16.5 inches in width, and 11.5 inches in height. It weighs 21.5 pounds. The color scheme includes blue, black, and grey. These physical specs define its footprint in the water.
Can the Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus clean in-ground pools?
Yes, it is ideal for in-ground pools. It supports pools up to 40 feet in length. The unit is designed to operate independently from your main filtration system. This ensures consistent cleaning performance regardless of your pump status.
Is the Hayward TigerShark suitable for large in-ground pools?
It is suitable for in-ground pools up to 20 by 40 feet. The quick clean cycle targets efficiency for this specific size range. It is not listed for pools larger than these dimensions. Check your pool size before selecting this model.