Head-to-Head Comparison
Polaris PCX 868 iQ Smart vs Dolphin Sigma
Our pool experts compare features, filtration, specs, and value to help you pick the right robotic pool cleaner.
Dolphin Sigma
Dolphin Sigma or Polaris PCX 868 iQ Smart — which wins?
Our pick: the Dolphin Sigma
Diving into the Polaris PCX 868 iQ Smart vs Dolphin Sigma, our pool experts weigh filtration, cleaning coverage, smart features, and value. For most pools, the Dolphin Sigma is the robot we recommend — and right now you save $600.
More ways to save on the Sigma
Certified & warranty-backedWhat Sets Them Apart
Key Differences
PCX 868 iQ smart
Sigma
- Includes NanoFilters™ - Captures small debris other cleaners miss
- Waterline Cleaning - Cleans the pool floor, wall, & waterline
- Triple Commercial Grade Motors - 3 ProLine Motors filter 4500 GPH+
- myDolphin Plus App - Schedule and clean the Sigma from anywhere
- Gyroscope - Gyroscopic sensors control and monitor every movement
- 3 Year Warranty - Longest warranty available
Side by Side
Feature Comparison
The features that matter most when comparing the Polaris PCX 868 iQ Smart and Dolphin Sigma.
| Feature | PCX 868 iQ smart | SigmaOur Pick |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Filter | ||
| NanoFilters™ | ||
| Multi-Media™ | ||
| Oversized Leaf Bag | ||
| Wall Climbing | ||
| Waterline Cleaning | ||
| Hands-Off Weekly Timer | ||
| 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. 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.
Smartphone App Control
App connectivity can put scheduling, cycle selection and cleaner status on your phone, although the exact controls vary by model.
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 Polaris PCX 868 iQ Smart and Dolphin Sigma in action.
The Details
Specifications
| PCX 868 iQ smart | Sigma | |
|---|---|---|
| Part Number | — | 99991036-SPLI |
| Waterline Cleaning | — | Yes |
| Multi-Media® | No | No |
| Filters Included | — | 2 |
| Filter Cleaning | — | Ultra-fine NanoFilters and Standard Filter Cartridge sets |
| Cleaning Coverage | — | Floor, Walls, Waterline |
| Cleaning Cycle | — | 2.5 hours |
| Number of Brushes | — | 4 |
| Cable Length | — | 55 ft |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | — | Yes |
| Pool Types | In Ground | In Ground |
| Maximum Pool Size | — | 50 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 | Yes |
| Daily Recharging Required | No | No |
| Smartphone App | No | Yes |
| Remote Operation | — | Yes - Through App |
| Restocking Fee | — | No |
| Warranty | — | 3 Years |
Go Deeper
Read Our Expert Reviews
Our in-depth reviews are written by pool experts to help you make an informed decision.
Polaris PCX 868 iQ Smart
Read Polaris PCX 868 iQ Smart ReviewDolphin Sigma
Read Dolphin Sigma 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
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Pool Volume Calculator
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Read more →Try It in Your Own Pool for 30 Days
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