Dolphin Escape or Polaris P965iQ Sport — which wins?
Our pick: the Dolphin Escape
Diving into the Polaris P965iQ Sport vs Dolphin Escape, 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-backedWhat Sets Them Apart
Key Differences
P965iQ Sport
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
Side by Side
Feature Comparison
The features that matter most when comparing the Polaris P965iQ Sport and Dolphin Escape.
| Feature | P965iQ Sport | EscapeOur Pick |
|---|---|---|
| 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 ›
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.
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 Polaris P965iQ Sport and Dolphin Escape in action.
The Details
Specifications
| P965iQ Sport | Escape | |
|---|---|---|
| Part Number | — | 99996153-SPLF |
| Waterline Cleaning | — | No |
| Multi-Media® | No | No |
| Filters Included | — | 1 |
| Filter Cleaning | — | MaxBin |
| Cleaning Coverage | — | Floor |
| Cleaning Cycle | — | 1.5 hours |
| Number of Brushes | — | 1 |
| Cable Length | — | 40 ft |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | — | No |
| Pool Types | In Ground | Above Ground |
| Maximum Pool Size | — | 33 ft |
| Pool Shape | — | Rectangle, Oval, or Freeform |
| Obstacles | — | Steps, Ladder, Drain Cover, Ledges, Pop-Ups |
| Surface | — | Concrete, Plaster, Gunite, Pebble, Tile, Vinyl Liner, Fiberglass |
| Media-Alert® | — | No |
| Hands-Off Weekly Timer | No | Optional |
| Daily Recharging Required | No | No |
| Smartphone App | No | No |
| Remote Operation | — | No |
| Restocking Fee | — | No |
| Warranty | — | 2 Years |
Go Deeper
Read Our Expert Reviews
Our in-depth reviews are written by pool experts to help you make an informed decision.
Polaris P965iQ Sport
Read Polaris P965iQ Sport ReviewDolphin Escape
Read Dolphin Escape 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.

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