Dolphin E20 vs Nautilus CC 2023 Review

dolphin pool cleaner scaling up an inground pool wall

Often when comparing robotic cleaners it can be difficult to determine which model will work best for you.  Sometimes you think you’ve got it figured out only to discover another model which is similar but you’re not sure what the differences are. This article is dedicated to helping you determine the differences in what we’re calling Dolphin E20 vs Nautilus CC.

Dolphin E20 vs Nautilus CC Review

Name
Dolphin Explorer E20
Dolphin Nautilus CC
Appearance
Dolphin Explorer E20 Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner — Powerful Wall Climbing Capability for an Ultimate Clean —...
Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner —  Wall Climbing Capability — Powerful Active Scrubbing Brush —...
Pool Size
33 Feet
33 Feet
Pool Shape
Any Shape
Round/Rectangle
Track Location
External Tracks
External Tracks
Pool Cleaner Weight
23.5 Pounds
23.5 Pounds
Model Access
Top Access
Top Access
Price
$599.00
Price not available
Name
Dolphin Explorer E20
Appearance
Dolphin Explorer E20 Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner — Powerful Wall Climbing Capability for an Ultimate Clean —...
Pool Size
33 Feet
Pool Shape
Any Shape
Track Location
External Tracks
Pool Cleaner Weight
23.5 Pounds
Model Access
Top Access
Price
$599.00
Name
Dolphin Nautilus CC
Appearance
Dolphin Nautilus CC Robotic Pool Vacuum Cleaner —  Wall Climbing Capability — Powerful Active Scrubbing Brush —...
Pool Size
33 Feet
Pool Shape
Round/Rectangle
Track Location
External Tracks
Pool Cleaner Weight
23.5 Pounds
Model Access
Top Access
Price
Price not available

When we first started comparing robotic pool cleaners we thought we’d be able to help numerous people separate the wheat from the chaff.  The Dolphin E20 vs Nautilus CC comparison is no different. There are many similarities and some differences, and in this article we’ll review the important features to consider.  

Pool Size

First, keep in mind you need to make sure your pool can be cleaned by a robotic cleaner with a 50’ cord.  For both the Dolphin E20 and Nautilus CC, Dolphin recommends pools no longer than 33 feet.  Keep in mind this is dependent on your GFCI outlet location.  

Always remember you must not use an extension cord at any time around a swimming pool for any reason.  If you don’t have an outlet within close proximity of the pool, hire a licensed electrician to put one in.  It is a National Electric Code requirement (NEC 680.22) to have an outlet no closer than 6 feet. Also, you can have it no further than 20 feet from a swimming pool.

Pool Shape

First, let’s start with the shape of the pool.  The Dolphin E20 is designed to work well in any shape pool.   Unlike the Dolphin Nautilus CC which Dolphin says will only work in a round or rectangular shape pool.

The Dolphin E20 and the Nautilus CC will climb the walls of your pool, but will not scrub the waterline like some other cleaners in the Dolphin cleaner family. When comparing Dolphin E20 vs Nautilus CC you’ll find both cleaners are floor and wall only.  

Track Location

Both the Nautilus CC and the E20 have external tracks.  That means the tracks are not partially internal and partially external.  This can be a great feature as the cleaner ages. This is because more of the mechanical aspect of the cleaner is exposed and servicing the cleaner will be less complicated.  This cleaner uses the older tried and true 4000 GPH circulation system, which Dolphin has included in their cleaners for years.  They provide a 2 year warranty on the cleaner.  

dolphin E20 vs nautilus CC on the wall of a pool's spa with gray coping

Pool Cleaner Weight

The gross weight (including the cord) of the Dolphin E20 and the Nautilus CC is right around 23.5 pounds.  When compared to other more expensive models it’s relatively light.  These cleaners are light enough for most people to muscle around safely. However, you ought to consider the caddy. Remember you don’t want to be in a situation where you drop the cleaner as this is how most cleaner damage occurs.

Model Access

The Dolphin E20 and Nautilus CC are top access models which 95% of the Dolphin cleaners have included standard at this point.  This means you simply set the cleaner on the deck, and you can flip open the top and pull out the filter box for cleaning.  Very simple and no balancing of the cleaner on its back while you clean it out.

Dolphin E20 vs Nautilus CC Summary

When considering the Dolphin E20 vs Nautilus CC, the major difference is the restriction on the shape of the pool.  The Dolphin Nautilus CC is designed primarily for round and rectangular pools, while the Dolphin E20 is designed for all pool shapes.  Beyond this, the only difference we found is the casing color scheme.

The Nautilus CC is white and Blue, while the color scheme of the Dolphin E20 is black and white.  Both cleaners have a blue cord.  If you have a round or rectangular pool, it comes down to personal preference which cleaner you prefer in your pool.  If you have any other shape pool, the Dolphin E20 is the cleaner for you.