Head-to-Head Comparison
Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Aquabot X2
Our pool experts compare features, filtration, specs, and value to help you pick the right robotic pool cleaner.
Aquabot X2 or Dolphin Explorer E20 — which wins?
Our pick: the Aquabot X2
Diving into the Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Aquabot X2, our pool experts weigh filtration, cleaning coverage, smart features, and value. For most pools, the Aquabot X2 is the robot we recommend — and right now you save $302.
What Sets Them Apart
Key Differences
Explorer E20
- No Waterline Cleaning - Won't clean the dirtest part of your pool
- No Anti-Tangle Swivel
- No NanoFilters™ - Cannot clean smaller debris and algae
- Overshadowed by the newer Gen 2 models with more features - such as the ProLine and Max-Series
X2
Side by Side
Feature Comparison
The features that matter most when comparing the Dolphin Explorer E20 and Aquabot X2.
| Feature | Explorer E20 | X2Our Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Filter |
Explained
Compare Features in Detail
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 ›
Watch
Videos
See the Dolphin Explorer E20 and Aquabot X2 in action.
The Details
Specifications
| Explorer E20 | X2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Part Number | 99996148-XP | — |
| Waterline Cleaning | No | No |
| Multi-Media® | No | No |
| Filters Included | 1 | 1 |
| Filter Cleaning | Top Access | Dual Filter Cartridges |
| Cleaning Coverage | Floor and Walls | Floor |
| Cleaning Cycle | 2 hours | 3 hours |
| Number of Brushes | 1 | 1 |
| Cable Length | 50 ft | 40ft |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | No | No |
| Pool Types | In Ground | In Ground |
| Maximum Pool Size | 33 ft | 40 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 | Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl, Liner | Concrete, Plaster, Gunite, Pebble, Tile, Vinyl Liner, Fiberglass |
| Media-Alert® | No | No |
| Automated Weekly Timer | No | No |
| Remote Operation | No | No |
| Restocking Fee | No | No |
| Warranty | 2 Years | 2 Years |
Go Deeper
Read Our Expert Reviews
Our in-depth reviews are written by pool experts to help you make an informed decision.
Dolphin Explorer E20
Read Dolphin Explorer E20 ReviewAquabot X2
Read Aquabot X2 ReviewKeep Comparing
Related Comparisons
Dolphin Premier vs Dolphin Explorer E20
Compare →Dolphin Quantum vs Dolphin Explorer E20
Compare →Dolphin Sigma vs Dolphin Explorer E20
Compare →Dolphin Odyssey vs Dolphin Explorer E20
Compare →Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Dolphin Escape
Compare →Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Dolphin Cayman
Compare →Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Blue Helix One
Compare →Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Aquabot X4
Compare →Keep Exploring
What’s Next?
Still narrowing it down? These expert guides and tools make it easy to find the right pool robot for your pool — most ship free, same day.
Pool Robot Buying Guide
Everything to know before you buy your first robot.
Read more →
Robot Selector
Answer a few quick questions and get a recommendation.
Read more →
Videos
Watch reviews, comparisons, and expert how-tos.
Read more →
Pool Volume Calculator
Calculate your exact pool volume to find the right robot.
Read more →Try It in Your Own Pool for 30 Days
Every pool deserves an intelligent robot. If you don't love it, simply return it — we never charge a restocking fee. Free shipping on every order.
Talk to a Pool Expert ›