Overall Score
80
55
98
Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Robotic Pool Cleaner Click to enlarge
Main
Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Poolside
Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Poolside 2
Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Underwater Wall Cleaning 3
Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Underwater 4
Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Poolside Cleaning Robot 5
Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Poolside Waterline Cleaning 6

Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA Robotic Pool Cleaner

Robert Knight Reviewed by Robert Knight
$1199

Key Features

  • Solid, yet better options out there - Compared to the Dolphin Quantum and Dolphin Premier, the Dolphin Advantage Ultra isn't quite as good. For a little more, you get more features and filters. But regardless, it is still a solid cleaner.
  • Includes Weekly Timer - We loved how the Dolphin Advantage Ultra would automatically turn on daily and clean our pool, unliked cordless cleaners that need to be recharged daily.
  • No NanoFilters - The Advantage Ultra only includes basic mesh filters, unlike the Dolphin Cayman, which offers optional NanoFilters for enhanced filtration.
  • For Pools Up to 50ft - The Advantage Ultra works for pools up to 50ft in length and includes a 60ft cord with an anti-tangle swivel.
  • 2 Year Warranty - The warranty is short in comparison to the ProLine's longer warranty
  • Active Scrubbing Brush - The Active Scrubbing Brush did a fantastic job scrubbing away at algae and debris in our test pool.
Scorecard

Ratings

Waterline Cleaning Excellent Excellent
Filter Bad Bad
Coverage Good Good
User Experience Good Good
Warranty Good Good
Overall Score
80

Highs & Lows

The pros and cons of the Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA

Check mark Highs
  • Solid, yet better options out there
  • Includes Weekly Timer
  • For Pools Up to 50ft
  • 2 Year Warranty
  • Active Scrubbing Brush
X icon Lows
  • No NanoFilters
  • 2 Year Warranty

Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA
Robot Class: In Ground

Features

Waterline / Tileline Cleaning

Clean where other robots can't.

90% of the bacteria in your pool is on the waterline. Don't get confused with robots that are "Wall Climbing". There is a big difference. Waterline cleaning means the Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA actively scrubs and sticks to the waterline scrubbing away this problem area in the pool. It is a feature you don't want to miss.


Dolphin Sigma Wall Climbing

Wall Climbing

Provides floor and wall coverage

Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA is able to easily clean your walls of your pool.The Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA combines wall climbing with the even more important waterline cleaning to provide a deep clean in your pool, giving you full floor, wall, and waterline coverage in your pool.


Anti-Tangle Swivel

Anti-Tangle Swivel

No more tangled cords.

With an Anti-tangle Swivel, the Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA can fully explore and clean your pool without ever getting stuck. The innovative design allows the robot to move freely 360 degrees around your pool, without ever knotting the cord.


Energy Saver

Ultra Efficient

Save Hundreds of Dollars Cleaning Your Pool a Year!

Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA saves hundreds of dollars a year in energy when compared to pressure-side or suction-side cleaners.


Plug and Play

Plug and Play

Simply Plug Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA in and start cleaning!

Set up has never been easier. No installation needed. Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA is ready to go right out of the box. No extra pumps, plumbing, or anything else needed. Simply plug ADVANTAGE ULTRA and start cleaning!


Smart Navigation

Precise Navigation

Navigate your pool efficiently

™ coverage is powered by an advanced navigation system. This technology ensures that the most effecient route is used to clean your pool floor. So smart, the system automatically navigates around obstacles and quickly returns to its route.

Videos

Watch reviews and tutorials

Maytronics
All Videos 1 videos
Pool & Shop

Where To Buy

Compare prices from trusted retailers — get the best deal on the ADVANTAGE ULTRA

Seller Buy From Availability Shop Online
Amazon In Stock (Prime eligible) Shop At Amazon
Poolbots $1,047.00 In Stock (Free Shipping) Shop At Poolbots

Looking for the best deal on the Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA and other robotic pool cleaners? Look no further, we have you covered. We searched the web and found the best deals on Maytronics, Aquabot, Polaris, and other cleaners.


Compare to higher rated robots

See how this cleaner stacks up against top picks

Dolphin Sigma Robotic Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Sigma

5 stars 4.9
693 Reviews $1897

Highs

  • Dolphin's Best Pool Robot Yet - More Features, More Filters, & More Power.
  • Most Advanced Dolphin Ever - Utilizes Gyroscope
  • Includes NanoFilters - Unlock a Deeper Clean
  • Quad Scrubbing Brushes - 4X Cleaning Power
  • Utilizes 3 Dolphin ProLine Commercial-Grade Motors
Dolphin Premier Robotic Pool Cleaner

Dolphin Premier

5 stars 4.9
2163 Reviews $1747

Highs

  • Only Dolphin with a Leaf Bag - includes Multi-Media
  • Waterline Cleaning Beast
  • New, High Performing Dolphin ProLine Model
  • NanoFiltration - Premier's NanoFilters allow it to clean deeper than standard Dolphin pool robots
  • 3 Year Warranty

Customer Reviews

Real feedback from verified buyers

Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA
0

Based on 51 Reviews

5 stars

Excellente!

Aaron July 9, 2021

This thing is absolutely awesome. This is my first robot vac, so I can’t compare it to the many other units available, but for us it’s been a game-changer. It seems as though (after about a month of use) it’s learned our pool, and cleans better than ever now. It was great out of the box, but now it even gets the steps and ledges. Great at climbing the sides and getting above the water line as well. Put it in the pool, press one button, and walk away. When you come back, you’re pool is clean. I obviously can’t speak to the durability/longevity yet, but I will definitely update if there’s an issue. I take it out of the pool when it’s done cleaning because I don’t like the idea of it sitting in chlorinated water all season. It may be fine that way, but I’m erring on the side of caution and babying it due to the price! I’m a healthy, strong adult, so pulling it out of the water is not an issue for me whatsoever. It feels like about 30-40 lbs when you first pull it up, but the water drains out quickly and it lightens up in no time. If you are elderly or weak, that may be an issue for you, but most adults shouldn’t have much trouble. I did a lot of research before buying this model and I’m not disappointed, but I’ll just say that if you’ve never tried a robot vac, get one! This one, or any one is better than vacuuming manually into your skimmer/filter system all the time! I may get through the entire year without having to backwash…

5 stars

Works as described

Amazon Customer May 26, 2022

I've only been using it for a couple of weeks and so far so good. If I had any complaints I wish it had included the ultra fine filters as they are nearly a $100 extra

5 stars

Plug and play (or drink)

Stancoman June 4, 2021

If anybody is wondering, it's perfect for a 20 x 40 pool. The cord is long enough keeping the modulator10' from the pool edge as they recommend. No need to ever have to power vac which costs an upwards of $150 each time. Some people make comments that it doesn't climb the walls but if your walls have an incredible amount of algae, even Spider-Man can't climb the walls. I'm using the fine filter for now but am investing the $50 for the ultra fine filter to get the "crystal clear" look to the pool. I highly recommend this and would give it 6 stars if I can. There's no need to pay the extra $300 to control it on your own with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth because it does it on its own. It's easy to use. "Plug and play" (or drink) I say.

4 stars

It arrived not working, but once we rebuilt it, it works fine

Lorraine Sheehan June 21, 2021

When the product arrived it worked for 20 minutes and then stopped. I spent an hour with customer service, who then sent a youtube video for me to watch to fix the machine. It involved unscrewing the housing, taking out the motor and resetting it back into the machine. It did work after that. I got the impression that this happens all the time because the customer service person just started with those instructions about having to take out the motor.

5 stars

works way better that hayward shark

Ryan M. June 28, 2021

delivered next day! that was unexpected. arrived as described - dropped it in the pool and it went to work. I had a hayward shark xl for years but had to replace the pump when the cable connection rusted and shorted. worked for 2 more years and then the motorized gears went. when i dropped the dolphin in the pool the next day, i was amazed at how much sand and fine dirt it picked up a day after the working shark cleaned the whole pool. The dolphin is way more efficient and the cleaning of the basket filters is so much easier. highly recommend this pool cleaner - expensive, but worth the price in my opinion.

5 stars

Get yourself one!

Dana & Kevin July 12, 2021

This is my first robotic pool cleaner, so I don't really have much to compare it against. I will say that it works just as advertised and has helped me greatly in getting my pool back into great shape after a lot of maintenance was done to my pool (new lines, new filter, new pipe). I love using my Dolphin ( nicknamed 'Dwight') and cleaning is easy as well. I did buy the ultra fine filters just recently and they are worth the extra money. This thing climbs the walls often and seems to cover my whole 16x32 rectangular pool with ease. I will never be without Dwight again.

5 stars

CLEANS THROUGHLY

Joe August 10, 2021

After purchasing 2 Polaris pool cleaners the last 10 years, I discovered this robot cleaner to be extremely efficent. The pool is truly sparkling and I only use it 2x a week. It climbs the walls as advertised and cleans the tile line. When compared to any pressure run cleaner, this is hands down superior. Do yourself a favor and try this model. You'll be surprised

5 stars

The DAU. Bada Bing Bada Boom.

SBcustomer June 22, 2021

Dolphin Advantage Ultra! Name says it all!! Thank you!! No time wasted here. Three hour cycle provides ultimate cleaning when needed. Plug it in, submerge it, pull it. Pop the roof, pull the basket, swing the basket bottom down and rinse the micro mesh. Sit back, relax and enjoy the show 👍😎

1 stars

Motor broken after one season

nothinghead May 22, 2022

Bought this unit in May 2021, it worked great for the first season, which is approximately 3 months in my area. Just opened the pool and the unit has problems with starting up. It will roll forward about 3 feet and then stop. Unfortunately, I am just a week past my 1 year "limited" warranty so I'm kinda screwed. These devices should be more robust for the price.

5 stars

Highly recommend!

Eddie Spears July 7, 2021

Does an awesome job in getting even the fine particles at the bottom of the pool. I have a wooded lot, so it has been extremely helpful.

5 stars

Set it and forget it.

Jon George Ministries August 17, 2021

I like it. Set it and forget it. I love the wifi option. It thoroughly cleans.

5 stars

Ready and easy to use

Kevin L. Downing June 25, 2021

Great robot so far. A bit tough to clean the trap on it but works great. Fired my pool service. Trouble finding a cart for it.

5 stars

Very pleased

Amazon Customer August 2, 2021

Keeps my pool bottom and sides very clean. Love the remote control and large debris bags.

5 stars

Great pool cleaner

Marc Greca June 27, 2021

Work Great for our new pool- 18x40 liner pool Fun to watch- lol Easy to use

1 stars

read the reviews before buying....I didn't

jeff NJ June 10, 2021

Mine is doing more time thinking than doing ! It moves 3' then twitches left or right and reverses 3' , repeat, repeat. It has made it to the waterline a few times, and shuffles 6". Doing the waterline like this will never do the whole waterline in a year. I chose this one because it did not require a smartphone app. Not sure what to do as I have the Universal caddy and cover on order elsewhere. Not happy is an understatement. With regard to its cleaning ability, I guess it's probably OK, my pool is already clean so difficult to tell

5 stars

Best ever , fast service !

Marie Pruitt June 21, 2021

The best cleaner I ever used !

1 stars

does not funtion properly

Brian May 23, 2022

this item does not work

1 stars

Does not work

elliott rogers July 18, 2021

Cleaner turns on, moves then stop. Has not worked since purchased. I'll be contacting customer service for technical assistance or a refund.

1 stars

DO NOT BUY!! Does not filter out fine dirt.

Barbara May 29, 2021

Purchased the product from Doheny pool supply. Purchased it to replace my old Kreepy Krauley that operated on the pools filtration system. The main reason I purchased the product was to reduce the burden on the main DE filtration system I was very disappointed to find out that the robotic cleaner does not really clean your pool. It picks up larger debris like leaves, worms, bugs, etc. but does not remove fine dirt. The fine dirt is blown through the fine screen back into the pool where the pool's main filtration system catches and removes the dirt. The water would become cloudy when I operated the Dolphin Advantage Ultra and is further evidence that the unit was merely re-suspending the fine dirt. It should referred to as a scrubber not a cleaner. That said, I still had to scrub the pools water line even after running the robot for 3-3hour cycles. I contacted product support at Doheny and their response was "I needed to run it longer". DUH!! Running it longer keeps the dirt suspended so that my main DE filter removes the dirt. They also want a 20% re-stocking fee to return the item. VERY DISAPPOINTED!!!!

5 stars

Works Great

ACIT July 28, 2021

I purchased this for a 14x33' pool and it works great. Completely cleans the pool and the waterline in one cycle. Easy to use and easy to clean.

5 stars

great waterline cleaning robot

Corry June 16, 2021

It is very light robot to carry in and out of the pool. I wanted a robot that clean the waterline around my pool. Anyway this robot climb up to the waterline and front brush is rubbing against slightly above the waterline. I am quite happy with it.

Questions & Answers

Common questions about the Dolphin ADVANTAGE ULTRA

Above-ground robotic pool cleaners are designed to clean the floor only. In-ground cleaners with wall-climbing capability are built differently; check your model's specs for floor-only vs floor, walls, and waterline.
With proper care and normal use, most robotic pool cleaners last 3–7 years. Lifespan depends on usage frequency, pool chemistry, surface type, and whether you store and maintain the unit as recommended.
It's best to remove the cleaner after each cycle and store it in a shaded, dry place. Leaving it in the pool can expose it to sun, chemicals, and debris, which can shorten its life.
Most plug into a standard 120V outlet via a low-voltage cable and control unit. A few models are cordless and run on a rechargeable battery; check your product's specifications.
Running it 2–3 times per week is typical for many pools. Heavy debris, high use, or large pools may require more frequent runs; smaller or covered pools may need less.
Check that the power supply is on and the cable isn't tangled or caught. Ensure the filter basket isn't overfull and that the unit isn't stuck on a step or drain. If it still doesn't move, refer to the manual or contact support.
No. Robotic pool cleaners run on their own power and filtration. You can run them with the pump off, which can save energy compared to pressure or suction-side cleaners.
Most residential robotic pool cleaners use a standard 120V outlet. The control box steps this down to low voltage for the floating cable. Check your manual for your model's requirements.
Simple tasks like cleaning filters and unclogging impellers are usually fine. For motor, cable, or electronics issues, use an authorized technician or the manufacturer's support to avoid voiding the warranty.
Cartridge filters are reusable: you rinse or wash them and put them back. Debris bags are often disposable or optional for heavy leaf pickup. Some robots include both; check your model for options.
Dolphin robots are designed to last many seasons. Lifespan varies by model, amount of use, pool chemistry, and pool surface. Following the manual and storing the unit properly helps maximize life.
DIY repairs should be done by an authorized technician. Contact your local retailer, Maytronics at 1-888-365-7446, or the support page on the manufacturer's website for service.
Dolphin units use a standard 120V outlet. The power supply converts this to the low voltage used by the cleaner. Do not use extension cords unless specified in the manual.
Replacement parts and filters are available through authorized Dolphin/Maytronics dealers, the manufacturer's website, and many pool retailers. Use genuine parts to keep the warranty valid.
Yes. Dolphin robotic pool cleaners are built to work in both chlorine and saltwater pools. Rinse the unit with fresh water after use to limit chemical and salt buildup.
Pool Attributes

Specifications

Pool Types In Ground
Pool Size 40 ft
Pool Shape Rectangle, Oval, or Freeform
Obstacles Steps, Ladder, Drain Cover, Ledges, Pop-Ups
Surface Gunite, Fiberglass, Vinyl, Liner
Cleaning
Waterline Cleaning Yes
Number of Filters Included 1
Filter Cleaning Top Access
Cleaning Coverage Floor, Walls and Waterline
Cleaning Cycle(s) 2 hrs
Number of Brushes 2
Connectivity & Automation
Remote operation No
WiFi / Bluetooth WiFi: No
Bluetooth: No
Smartphone App No
Automated Weekly Timer Yes
Other
Full Bag Indicator No
Cable Length 60 ft
Anti-Tangling Swivel Yes
Restocking Fee No
No Restocking Fee Ever.
Warranty 2 Years
Caddy Included Optional Caddies Available
Part Number 99996201-ADU
ASIN B08X98WYKZ