Expert Review
Dolphin Explorer E20 Review
Effortless pool maintenance
$799 MSRP
Our Test Results
How the Dolphin Explorer E20 Scored
Highlights
Key Features
Easy Access Filter
Top-load filter access for easy and convenient debris removal and cleaning
Super Scrub
Intense scrubbing-power of pool surfaces, providing thorough cleaning
Light Weight
Lightweight design for easy lifting and handling
Plug'n'Play
Just plug it in, drop into the pool, for an Easy clean
Energy Saver
Reduces water, chemical, and energy usage with every pool cleaning
What features does it have?
The Dolphin Explorer E20 is a great entry point into automated pool cleaning. It's an easy, plug-and-play way to keep your pool floor consistently clean without the back-breaking work of manual vacuuming. Here's an honest look at what the E20 offers in 2026 and how it compares.
What is Dolphin Explorer E20 missing?
Waterline Cleaning
Dolphin Explorer E20 does not included waterline cleaning. Not only is this an essential feature that you'll want when looking for a pool robot, but one you will likely need. Waterline cleaning enables the robot to climb and reach the dirtest part of your swimming pool. Without this feature, you'll still need to manually clean your waterline by hand with a brush to prevent any algae or scum that builds up. It is one feature that you'll need that is not included with the Dolphin Explorer E20.
Leaf Bag
With leaves being a common issue, it would be safe to assume most pool robots utilize a leaf bag. Well, no so fast. Nearly every robotic pool cleaner is missing a leaf bag, except the Dolphin Premier. If you have a lot of leaves, this is the best pool robot for leaves. Not to mention the Premier's 3 year warranty, Dual Commercial Motors, and Multi-Media™ make it one of the best models available.
It's also helpful to know where the E20 fits. As a dependable entry-level Explorer it's a solid pick, but it uses standard filters rather than NanoFilters and isn't a ProLine or Max-Series cleaner. If you want the finest filtration and commercial-grade power, a ProLine model such as the Dolphin Premier or a Max-Series cleaner is the next step up.
What's included with the Dolphin Explorer E20?
The Dolphin Explorer E20 includes everything you'll need. Here is what is included with the unit:
- Dolphin Explorer E20 Unit
- 50 ft Cord
- Programmable Weekly Timer
- Standard Filters
- 2 Year Warranty
How to set up the Dolphin Explorer E20
Simply plug and play. All robotic pool cleaners are ready to go right out of the box. No booster pump or assembly needed. The Explorer E20 has everything needed to get started in its box. It's that easy.
Comparing Explorer models? Read our Dolphin Explorer E30 review and Dolphin Explorer E50 review, or step up to the flagship Dolphin Premier review.
Why Poolbots?
No one knows pool robots better than we do. With 25+ years in the swimming pool industry and full Dolphin Authorized Dealer status, we protect every purchase with the complete, non-prorated manufacturer's warranty, ship free, and back it all with a 30-Day Trial that carries NO restocking fee, ever.
Ready to stop scrubbing and start swimming? Order the Dolphin Explorer E20 today to begin your trial, or compare the best robotic pool cleaners and ask our experts for honest, no-pressure guidance.
The Bottom Line
Dolphin Explorer E20 Pros & Cons
What We Like
- Powerful Scrubbing Brushes
- 2 Year Warranty
- Built for In-Ground and Above Ground Pools Up to 33ft
What to Consider
- 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
Dolphin Explorer E20 Specifications
| Waterline Cleaning | No |
|---|---|
| Wall Climbing | |
| Dual Stabilizer | No |
| Number of Motors | 2 |
| Gallons Filtered Per Hour | 4000 GPH |
| Filter Types | Top Access |
| Pool Coverage | Floor and Walls |
| Pool Types | In Ground |
| Pool Size | 33 ft |
| Pool Shapes | Rectangle, Oval, or Freeform |
| Pool Surfaces | Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl, Liner |
| Cable Length | 50 ft |
| Anti-Tangle Swivel | No |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Steps, Ladder, Drain Cover, Ledges, Pop-Ups |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
| Brand | Dolphin |
| Manufacturer | Maytronics |
| Part Number | 99996148-XP |
Compare Dolphin Explorer E20
See how the Dolphin Explorer E20 stacks up against the closest models by price — compare pool fit, key features, and the standout benefits of each. Want a full breakdown? Use the head-to-head links below, or chat with our pool experts.
|
Dolphin Explorer E20
$669$799Save $130 |
Dolphin Escape
$669$999Save $330Max-Series |
Dolphin Cayman
$1079$1299Save $220Max-Series |
Dolphin Quantum
$1649$1799Save $150Pro Line |
Clear S
$1749$2749Save $1000Clear Series | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pool Type | In Ground | Above Ground | In Ground & Above Ground | In Ground | In Ground |
| Max Pool Size | 33 ft | 33 ft | 33 ft | 50 ft | 50 ft |
| Cleaning Coverage | Floor and Walls | Floor | Floor, Walls | Floor, Walls, Waterline, Ledges, Steps | Floor, Walls, Waterline |
| Weekly Timer | |||||
| Top Reasons to Buy |
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| Head-to-Head | You're here | Compare → | Compare → | Compare → | Compare → |
| Shop | Shop | Shop | Shop | Shop |
Read Our Reviews
Learn more about the Dolphin Explorer E20 on our review. Our in-depth pool robot reviews are written by our pool experts and will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a robotic pool cleaner for your pool. Read the Dolphin Explorer E20 Review or browser other top robotic pool cleaner reviews.
Keep Exploring
What’s Next?
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