Hey everyone, Ryan here from ActuallyUsed! So, I've been testing the new Dolphin Quantum for a few weeks now, and I've gotta say - this robot is one of the best deals out there right now. (See how it compares to other top models in our best robotic pool cleaners guide.)

I've tested everything from the $3,500 Beatbot AquaSense 2 Ultra to entry-level $200 Aiper models-and honestly, most robotic pool cleaners don't live up to the hype. But the Dolphin Quantum? It's different-it's a solid, reliable pool cleaner that delivers true, hands-off pool cleaning automation.

At ActuallyUsed, I go beyond the marketing claims and spec sheets. I run real-world tests to measure real suction power with a manometer, and I live with these products to see how they hold up in day-to-day use. And after putting the new Dolphin Quantum to the test, I can say this: the Dolphin Quantum is absolutely worth it.

Who is the Quantum for

The Quantum hits this sweet spot for pool owners who are just fed up with babysitting their pools. If you're tired of skimming leaves every night, scrubbing the waterline weekly, or dealing with a cordless robot that dies halfway through cleaning - this is your upgrade path.

This robot is perfect for:

  • Pool owners with lots of debris - the massive XXL MaxBin handles heavy debris without constant emptying.
  • Anyone who wants top-tier filtration - NanoFilters capture fine particles most robots miss.
  • Those who value true set-it-and-forget-it automation - just schedule it and let it clean on its own daily. No recharging or restarting it daily.
  • Anyone looking for commercial-grade cleaning - without paying commercial-grade prices.

Dolphin Quantum Being Lifted Near Pool Surface Treads

So where does the Quantum fit in Dolphin's lineup? It basically takes the muscle from their ProLine commercial robots and combines it with the user-friendly features from their Max-Series.

Here's how the Quantum stacks up against your typical mid-tier pool robot:

You get an XXL MaxBin that's 225% larger than standard Dolphin filters, dual DC motors moving 4,000 gallons per hour, and ultra-fine NanoFilters that trap even the smallest debris.

It navigates with SmartNav 2.0 mapping-no random bump-and-turn nonsense-and includes a 60-foot swivel cord to prevent tangles. All backed by a solid 2-year warranty.

Dolphin Quantum Connecting Tube To Underside Robot Poolside

That all looks good on paper, but specs don't keep your pool clean. And that's where the Quantum really shines.

XXL MaxBin

OK so most companies claim "large filter baskets" but Quantum's XXL MaxBin is ACTUALLY the largest I've seen.

It's around 400 square inches of filter capacity. Which is significantly larger than the MaxBin on the Dolphin Escape and Dolphin Cayman.

Why does basket size matter so much? Because when smaller baskets clog up, the pump has to work harder and leaves debris behind. The MaxBin lets the Quantum maintain a high flow, which means less leaves and dirt in your pool.

Dolphin Quantum Filter Basket Full Leaves Debris In Hands

The cleaning process is super simple too - open the lid, the handle pops up automatically, lift, hose it off, click back in. Takes under a minute, and you don't need to fumble around disassembling the robot or taking it apart like other robots.

The Quantum includes 2 sets of filters: Standard Mesh and NanoFilters. You can easily just swap the panels out in a few seconds - it's super simple.

Which filter should you use?

I primarily liked using the NanoFilters, but if you want to prioritize large debris and maximize flow - the standard filters are a good option.

NanoFilters

Let me talk about something that way too many pool owners overlook: the filters. You can have all the suction power and smart navigation in the world, but if your robot isn't catching the fine stuff-like pollen, dust, or oils-your pool's never going to look truly clean.

That's where the NanoFilters in the Dolphin Quantum come in. I've tested dozens of filter systems across different brands, and these are hands-down the best filters I've ever used.

Dolphin Quantum Hand Holding Filter Basket Emptying Leaves

The Quantum comes with second-generation NanoFilters, and the difference they make is immediately noticeable. The water went from slightly cloudy to absolutely polished, and it stayed that way. I didn't even realize how much fine debris was lingering in my water until after I used these filters.

Each NanoFilter is deeply pleated with a huge surface area. That means it traps more junk while still letting water flow through efficiently. And the design? It's not just about filtering leaves. It traps algae, bacteria, oils, even pet hair. I noticed that the usual oily film on the surface from sunscreen was completely gone after a full cycle. No extra chemicals, just better filtration.

HyperBrush Scrubbing

The cheap robots? They mostly just vacuum. But the Dolphin Quantum takes things a step further with its HyperBrush-a fast-spinning brush that scrubs twice as fast as Dolphin's base models. That aggressive scrubbing makes a huge difference, especially in the spots that normally require you to break out the pool brush.

Dolphin Quantum Hand Spraying Pleated Filter With Water

That green film on the walls? Gone. That stubborn calcium buildup around the waterline? Gone. All that fine dust that settles on the slope in the deep end? Completely gone.

The HyperBrush breaks everything loose so efficiently that the NanoFilters catch it all in a single pass. I didn't have to grab my manual brush once during testing. Not. Once. For someone who's spent more weekends than I'd like to admit scrubbing pools by hand, this one feature alone easily justifies the price.

DC Motors

The Quantum packs dual DC motors that push about 4,000 GPH. And that kind of flow rate does two helpful things:

  1. It improves your chemical distribution. Chlorine disperses more evenly, so you don't get to those hotspots or dead zones.
  2. The robot essentially becomes a roaming filter - like secondary filter that moves around your pool. This is especially helpful if you're running your main pump on a variable-speed, low-RPM schedule to save electricity.

Dolphin Quantum Leaning Against Pebbletec Pool Wall Underwater

Suction Power on Manometer

Now, I've tested enough pool robots to know that suction power is one of the most overhyped specs in the industry. A lot of them talk big but fall flat once they hit the water. That's why I bought a manometer to measure the actual suction pressure on the Dolphin Quantum.

And honestly? I was impressed. After hooking it up and running a few tests, the Quantum held steady at over -making it one of the most powerful robots I've ever tested. I've used models that cost three times as much, and they couldn't even come close to this level of suction. It's not just strong-it's consistent, even when the basket starts to fill up.

Dolphin Quantum Underwater Robot Cleaning Pebbletec Pool Floor

Cleaning Path

At over 7 inches wide, the Dolphin Quantum has one of the largest cleaning paths of any pool robot I've tested. For context, the Aiper Scuba SE only offers a 3.5-inch path, and even the higher-end Scuba E1 tops out at just 6 inches. That might not sound like much on paper, but when you're cleaning an entire pool, it makes a big difference.

Here's why it matters: a wider cleaning path means the robot can cover more surface area with each pass, which translates to faster, more efficient cleaning cycles.

Dolphin Quantum Underwater Robot With Blue Power Cable

It's also important when vacuuming up leaves, twigs, and clumps of dirt. Narrower robots tend to push debris aside or miss it completely. The Quantum? It's wide enough to scoop up everything in its path without needing multiple passes. You're not just getting a cleaner pool-you're getting a robot that cleans smarter and more efficiently.

What it is missing

Let's be real - no product is perfect. Here's what you're giving up with the Quantum:

The Quantum doesn't come with Wi-Fi or an app. Some people might miss smartphone control, but honestly, I prefer fewer gadgets to manage. Simple timer controls mean fewer headaches-just press a button, and you're done.

Dolphin Quantum Robot Cleaning Pool Wall Underwater Bubbles

And truthfully? The app is the only thing it's "missing." In terms of build quality, cleaning power, and overall performance, the Quantum sits at the top of Maytronics' lineup. You're getting ProLine features, advanced filtration, and serious cleaning capability.

Is the Dolphin Quantum Actually Worth It?

After using the Dolphin Quantum, it is worth every penny.

The Quantum hits that perfect balance between serious cleaning power and automation. And it's great value compared to other robots from Maytronics, Aiper, and Beatbot.

Dolphin Quantum Robot Floating Surface Blue Cord Attached

You'll empty it weekly instead of daily. You won't have to recharge it. Your water will be crystal clear, not just "good enough." You can actually set it and forget it thanks to the corded design and reliable timer. And you're getting professional-grade components without the professional price tag.

Could you spend more on their fancy Sigma model with Wi-Fi? Sure. Will this keep your pool just as clean without the headache of constant maintenance? Absolutely.

This is one of those products that just works, and works well, which is why I'd recommend it.

Alternative Pool Robots

Obviously, the Quantum isn't the only fish in the sea. Here's how the Dolphin Quantum stacks up against two of Maytronics' top-tier models-the Sigma and the Premier-and why it might actually be the smarter choice for most pool owners:

Dolphin Sigma

The Sigma is considered Dolphin's flagship, and yeah-it's packed with features:

  • Wi-Fi app control for remote scheduling and monitoring
  • Triple commercial-grade motors for boosted suction
  • A 3-year warranty, which adds an extra layer of peace of mind

Dolphin Quantum Underwater Robot Close Up Blue Cord Attached

But here's the thing-the Quantum delivers about 90% of the Sigma's cleaning performance at a significantly lower price. Unless you really need app control or have an exceptionally large or debris-heavy pool, spending more isn't necessary. The Sigma's great and I'd say its the better pool cleaner if you just want the best of the best - but it's just overkill for most smaller residential pools.

Dolphin Premier

Then there's the Premier, another heavy-hitter. Here's its top features:

  • Multi-Media filtration that lets you swap filters depending on the debris
  • A slightly higher flow rate (around 4,500 GPH)
  • A 3-year warranty

Dolphin Quantum Underwater View Cleaning Pool Bottom Pebbletec

All good stuff-but in practice, most pool owners won't use half of that. What they will use is the Quantum's:

  • Top-loading MaxBin, which is much easier and cleaner to empty
  • Lower price, with virtually the same day-to-day cleaning performance

Again, it is a more powerful pool cleaner and if you have a larger pool, it's worth the upgrade. But, for most people, the Premier's added price tag may not be worth it.

Final Thoughts

Bottom line: The Dolphin Quantum gives you flagship-level cleaning without the flagship price. It's powerful, easy to maintain, and actually makes owning a pool easier. It's an easy recommendation from me.

Dolphin Quantum Underwater View Pool Floor With Cable

Want to see how the Quantum compares to other top models? Check out our best robotic pool cleaners guide. Thanks for watching, and I'll catch you on the next one.