Head-to-Head Comparison

Dolphin Escape vs Dolphin Active 40

Our pool experts compare features, filtration, specs, and value to help you pick the right robotic pool cleaner.

Our Top Pick

Dolphin Escape

Explore Dolphin Max-Series™ →

★★★★☆ 4.7 (315)

$669$999

Save $330

Open Box $649 Refurbished $589

View Escape

Dolphin Active 40

Explore Dolphin Active →

$1799

View Active 40

Dolphin Active 40 or Dolphin Escape — which wins?

Our pick: the Dolphin Escape

Diving into the Dolphin Escape vs Dolphin Active 40, our pool experts weigh filtration, cleaning coverage, smart features, and value. For most pools, the Dolphin Escape is the robot we recommend — and right now you save $330.

More ways to save on the Escape

Certified & warranty-backed

Save $20

Certified Open Box · $649

Save $80

Certified Refurbished · $589

What Sets Them Apart

Key Differences

Escape

MaxBin™ is larger and easier to clean than filter cartridges
FREE NanoFilters with purchase using code at checkout: DEEPCLEAN23
HyperBrush - Scrubs 2X the speed of standard Dolphin robots
SmartNav 2.0 - Advanced microprocessor enables a deeper cleaning performance
Powerful Vacuuming - Cleans leaves, twigs, bugs, sand, and more

Active 40

In-Store Exclusive - Sold through pool stores only, so no online price, free shipping or 30-day trial
2-Year Warranty - The Dolphin Premier and Sigma carry 3 years

Side by Side

Feature Comparison

The features that matter most when comparing the Dolphin Escape and Dolphin Active 40.

Feature	EscapeOur Pick	Active 40
Standard Filter
NanoFilters™	Optional
Multi-Media™
Oversized Leaf Bag
Wall Climbing
Waterline Cleaning
Hands-Off Weekly Timer	Optional
Hands-Off Daily Cleaning	✓ No manual recharge	✓ No manual recharge
Smartphone App Control
Full Filter Indicator
Gyroscope Navigation
Dual Stabilizer
Anti-Tangle Swivel
3-Year Warranty

Explained

Compare Features in Detail

NanoFilters™

Often overlooked, a NanoFilter™ can be the most important part of a pool robot. Without it, microscopic particulate — fine dust, pollen, and algae — passes right through the standard filters found on most robots. These ultra-fine filters trap that debris for a noticeably cleaner, healthier pool. On some models NanoFilters are included; on others (like the Escape and Cayman) they're an inexpensive optional add-on. Learn more ›

Optional Dolphin Escape optional upgrade

Dolphin Active 40 does not

Hands-Off Weekly Timer

An automatic pool cleaner should be automatic. A true weekly timer runs a complete pool-cleaning cycle on schedule — every day, every other day, or a few times a week — without you retrieving or recharging the robot between cycles. On models where it isn't standard (such as the Escape), the timer is available as an optional upgraded power supply.

Optional Dolphin Escape optional upgrade

Dolphin Active 40 includes this

Smartphone App Control

App connectivity can put scheduling, cycle selection and cleaner status on your phone, although the exact controls vary by model.

Dolphin Escape does not

Dolphin Active 40 includes this

Full Filter Indicator

Know exactly when it's time to clean. The power supply alerts you directly when the filter is full — no need to pull out the unit to check.

Dolphin Escape does not

Dolphin Active 40 includes this

Anti-Tangle Cable Swivel

Say goodbye to tangled cords. An anti-tangle swivel lets the robot move 360° around your pool without the cord getting tangled, so you can sit back while it cleans. Learn more ›

Dolphin Escape does not

Dolphin Active 40 includes this

Warranty Coverage

A robot is only as good as its warranty. Buying through an Authorized Dealer like Poolbots gets you the full manufacturer warranty — never pro-rated or limited by cleaning cycles — plus a 30-day in-pool trial with no restocking fees. Learn more ›

Dolphin Escape 2-year warranty

Dolphin Active 40 2-year warranty

Watch

Videos

See the Dolphin Escape and Dolphin Active 40 in action.

The Details

Specifications

	Escape	Active 40
Part Number	99996153-SPLF	99996271-US
Waterline Cleaning	No	Yes
Multi-Media®	No	No
Filters Included	1	1
Filter Cleaning	MaxBin	Top Access
Cleaning Coverage	Floor	Floor, Walls and Waterline
Cleaning Cycle	1.5 hours	1.5, 2 hours
Number of Brushes	1	2
Cable Length	40 ft	60 ft
Anti-Tangle Swivel	No	Yes
Pool Types	Above Ground	In Ground
Maximum Pool Size	33 ft	50 ft
Pool Shape	Rectangle, Oval, or Freeform	Rectangle, Oval, or Freeform
Obstacles	Steps, Ladder, Drain Cover, Ledges, Pop-Ups	Steps, Ladder, Drain Cover, Ledges, Pop-Ups
Surface	Concrete, Plaster, Gunite, Pebble, Tile, Vinyl Liner, Fiberglass	Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl, Liner
Media-Alert®	No	Yes
Hands-Off Weekly Timer	Optional	Yes
Daily Recharging Required	No	No
Smartphone App	No	Yes
Remote Operation	No	No
Restocking Fee	No	No
Warranty	2 Years	2 Years