Head-to-Head Comparison
Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Aquabot X4
Our pool experts compare features, filtration, specs, and value to help you pick the right robotic pool cleaner.
Aquabot X4 or Dolphin Explorer E20 — which wins?
Our pick: the Aquabot X4
Diving into the Dolphin Explorer E20 vs Aquabot X4, our pool experts weigh filtration, cleaning coverage, smart features, and value. For most pools, the Aquabot X4 is the robot we recommend — and right now you save $200.
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
X4
Side by Side
Feature Comparison
The features that matter most when comparing the Dolphin Explorer E20 and Aquabot X4.
| Feature | Explorer E20 | X4Our Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Filter | ||
| Wall Climbing | ||
| Anti-Tangle Swivel |
Explained
Compare Features in Detail
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 ›
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 X4 in action.
The Details
Specifications
| Explorer E20 | X4 | |
|---|---|---|
| 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, Walls |
| Cleaning Cycle | 2 hours | 3 hours |
| Number of Brushes | 1 | 1 |
| Cable Length | 50 ft | 60ft |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | No | Yes |
| Pool Types | In 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 | 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 X4
Read Aquabot X4 ReviewKeep Comparing
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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.
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Videos
Watch reviews, comparisons, and expert how-tos.
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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.
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