Head-to-Head Comparison
Dolphin Wave 120 vs Dolphin Cayman
Our pool experts compare features, filtration, specs, and value to help you pick the right robotic pool cleaner.
Dolphin Cayman or Dolphin Wave 120 — which wins?
Our pick: the Dolphin Cayman
Diving into the Dolphin Wave 120 vs Dolphin Cayman, our pool experts weigh filtration, cleaning coverage, smart features, and value. For most pools, the Dolphin Cayman is the robot we recommend — and right now you save $220.
What Sets Them Apart
Key Differences
Wave 120
Cayman
- Best Pool Robot Under $800 with NanoFilter™ capability, Weekly Timer, HyperBrush, and Wall Climbing.
- MaxBin™ is larger and easier to clean than filter cartridges
- Wall Climbing - Complete floor and wall coverage
- FREE NanoFilters with purchase using code at checkout: DEEPCLEAN23
- Weekly Timer - Schedule the robot to automatically clean
- HyperBrush - Scrubs 2X the speed of standard Dolphin robots
Side by Side
Feature Comparison
The features that matter most when comparing the Dolphin Wave 120 and Dolphin Cayman.
| Feature | Wave 120 | CaymanOur Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Filter | ||
| NanoFilters™ | Optional | |
| Wall Climbing | ||
| Waterline Cleaning | ||
| Programmable Weekly Timer | ||
| Full Filter Indicator | ||
| Gyroscope Navigation | ||
| Dual Stabilizer | ||
| Anti-Tangle Swivel |
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 ›
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.
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.
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. 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 Wave 120 and Dolphin Cayman in action.
The Details
Specifications
| Wave 120 | Cayman | |
|---|---|---|
| Part Number | 9999359-W120 | 99996135-SPL |
| Waterline Cleaning | Yes | No |
| Multi-Media® | No | No |
| Filters Included | 1 | 1 |
| Filter Cleaning | Bottom Access | MaxBin |
| Cleaning Coverage | Floor, Walls and Waterline | Floor, Walls |
| Cleaning Cycle | 4, 6 hours | 1.5 hours |
| Number of Brushes | 4 | 1 |
| Cable Length | 130 ft | 36 ft |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | Yes | No |
| Pool Types | In Ground | In Ground & Above Ground |
| Maximum Pool Size | 121 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 | Concrete, Plaster, Gunite, Pebble, Tile, Vinyl Liner, Fiberglass |
| Media-Alert® | Yes | No |
| Automated Weekly Timer | No | Yes |
| Remote Operation | Yes | 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 Wave 120
Read Dolphin Wave 120 ReviewDolphin Cayman
Read Dolphin Cayman 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.
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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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