Head-to-Head Comparison
Dolphin W20 vs Dolphin Proteus DX3
Our pool experts compare features, filtration, specs, and value to help you pick the right robotic pool cleaner.
Dolphin Proteus DX3 or Dolphin W20 — which wins?
Our Recommendations
Neither the Dolphin W20 nor the Dolphin Proteus DX3 is a cleaner we carry. Here are the robots our pool experts recommend instead — proven Dolphin ProLine and Max-Series models, each backed by the full manufacturer warranty and our 30-day in-pool trial.
Dolphin Quantum
- myDolphin Plus App with Weekly Timer
- XXL MaxBin™ with NanoFilters
- 2 Year Warranty
- Built for Inground & Above Ground Pools up to 50ft
Dolphin Cayman
- Free NanoFilter Panels with Purchase
- Active Brush - Scrubs 2X Faster
- 2 Year Warranty
- Built for Above Ground and Inground Pools Up to 33ft
Dolphin Escape
- Free NanoFilter Panels with Purchase
- Active Brush - Scrubs 2X Faster
- 2 Year Warranty
- Built for Above Ground and Inground Pools Up to 33ft
What Sets Them Apart
Key Differences
W20
Proteus DX3
- 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
- Shorter Warranty - Shorter warranty compared to the Dolphin ProLine
Side by Side
Feature Comparison
The features that matter most when comparing the Dolphin W20 and Dolphin Proteus DX3.
| Feature | W20 | Proteus DX3 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Filter | ||
| Wall Climbing | ||
| Programmable Weekly Timer | ||
| Dual Stabilizer | ||
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | ||
| 3-Year Warranty |
Explained
Compare Features in Detail
Programmable Weekly Timer
An automatic pool cleaner should be automatic. A programmable weekly timer sets the robot to clean on a schedule — every day, every other day, or a few times a week — without you turning it on and off.
Dual Stabilizer
Essential for waterline cleaning, dual stabilizers let the unit cling to the walls for a more precise, deeper clean at the waterline — with increased agility and an easy pickup handle.
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. The Dolphin W20 is backed by a 3-year warranty, while the Dolphin Proteus DX3 carries a 2-year 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 ›
The Details
Specifications
| W20 | Proteus DX3 | |
|---|---|---|
| Part Number | 99996904-US | 99996114-LES |
| Waterline Cleaning | No | No |
| Multi-Media® | No | No |
| Filters Included | 1 | 1 |
| Filter Cleaning | Bottom Access | Top Access |
| Cleaning Coverage | Floor | Floor and Walls |
| Cleaning Cycle | 3 hours | 2 hours |
| Number of Brushes | 2 | 1 |
| Cable Length | 80 ft | 50 ft |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | Yes | No |
| Pool Types | In Ground | In Ground |
| Maximum Pool Size | 68 ft | 33 ft |
| Pool Shape | Rectangular, Free Shape, Hopper, Kidney, Zero (beach) entry | Rectangle, Oval, or Freeform |
| Obstacles | Steps, Ladder, Drain Cover, Ledges, Pop-Ups | Steps, Ladder, Drain Cover, Ledges, Pop-Ups |
| Surface | Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl, Liner | Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl, Liner |
| Media-Alert® | No | No |
| Automated Weekly Timer | No | Yes |
| Remote Operation | Yes | No |
| Restocking Fee | No | No |
| Warranty | 3 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 W20
Read Dolphin W20 ReviewDolphin Proteus DX3
Read Dolphin Proteus DX3 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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