Polaris and Dolphin are two companies that specialize in pool cleaners. Specifically, the robotic ones. Both of these brands deliver some excellent products, and in this article, we’re going to be looking at and comparing the Polaris F9550, and the Dolphin Premier.
Reading this article will give you a good understanding of the individual features that each product offers and what sets them apart from one another.
In short, what’s the difference between these two robotic pool cleaners, the Polaris 9550 and the Dolphin Premier? The Polaris 9550 contains a caddy and handheld remote control, while you can buy these individually with the Dolphin robotic pool cleaner.
The Dolphin Premier cleans swimming pools up to 50 feet, while the 9595 cleans swimming pools up to 60 feet. Filters are on the top of the Polaris, and the Dolphin Premier has them on the bottom. Both pool cleaners are designed for in-ground pools.
Polaris F9550
Let’s start with one fact: this is a premium product. It costs a lot more than many of the other robotic pool cleaners that Polaris offers, and this is because there are a wide variety of excellent features that this product has, that other Polaris robotic pool cleaners lack.
The Polaris 9550 has been designed with Vortex Vacuum technology, enabling it to more efficiently clean up dirt, debris – including large pieces of debris – and anything else that gets in its way. As for the length of the pool, it can be clean, and sixty feet is the maximum. This device can clean your swimming pool’s floors, walls, and waterline using a bladed scrubbing brush.
You can maneuver the Polaris 9550 by using a remote control. This feature is quite notable because most robotic pool cleaners do not give you this level of control and maneuverability.
Now, this remote is what’s known as a “Motion-Sensing Remote.” You point the remote towards the spot you want the Polaris 9550 to clean, and it will go there.
As for how it moves, it uses four-wheel drive. It doesn’t get stuck, and it can quickly go over and around objects. And when you’re done, with the press of a button, the device goes to the surface, and you grab the handle and pull it up.
You also have a programmable timer and “Cleaning Cycles” that you can customize to allow for the best possible experience. There is also a “Waterline Only” mode.
Filters can often be a problem with these kinds of devices. With the Polaris 9550, you have a very simple filter canister that allows you to shake the debris into a garbage bag, then spray it down, and put it back into the machine, making it easy to resume the cleaning process once more.
Ultimately, the Polaris 9550 is one of the most advanced pool cleaners today. It’s an exceptionally well-made and easy-to-use device made for people who want only the best.
Dolphin Premier
Just like the Polaris 9550, this is a premium product.
One of the most notable features of the Dolphin Premier is that it has four different types of filters for whatever you are going to be cleaning. A specific filter is used, whether it’s algae, small leaves, or big pieces of debris, making this a straightforward process.
Energy usage has been reduced by eighty-seven percent compared to the other Dolphin models due to the development of new motors designed to be more powerful and more energy-efficient. Because of this new feature, you’ll save at least a little money on power costs, as these machines aren’t always known for their energy efficiency.
Unlike the Polaris 9550, the Dolphin Premier doesn’t have a remote control. Still, it uses the SmartNav system, which allows the machine to calculate the best possible route for cleaning and coverage. For many people, this is better than having a remote control because it’s far more convenient.
Using dual-scrubbing brushes, the Premier can quickly get rid of all kinds of dirt and gunk.
However, it isn’t as powerful a device as the Polaris 9550, which is better for taking care of dirt and debris. It doesn’t have the same filtration system, and it is less flexible.
For those reasons, if you choose to buy the Polaris 9550, you’re choosing power over the sheer flexibility – in terms of filtration – of the Dolphin Premier.
Dolphin Premier Video
Related Post: Polaris NEO vs Dolphin Nautilus CC Plus
Polaris vs. Dolphin: Final Words
If you buy the Dolphin Premier, you’re going to be sacrificing power, for flexibility.
If your pool isn’t that dirty or doesn’t require extensive cleaning, then the Dolphin 2018 Premier may be the best choice. If it is very dirty, and you want something that can deliver that kind of power, then the Polaris 9550 might be the best one for you.
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Difference Between the Polaris and Dolphin Robotic Pool Cleaner
| Model | Dolphin Premier | Polaris F9550 Sport |
| Pool Size | Up to 50 Ft | Up to 60 Ft |
| Pool Type | In-Ground | In-Ground |
| Cleaning Cycle | 3 Hours | 1.5 / 2.5 Hours |
| Tangle-free Swivel | Yes | Yes |
| Cable Length | 60 Ft | 70 Ft |
| Weight | 22 lbs | 21 lbs |
| Dimensions | 23 x 19 x 14 in | 22 x 22 x 18.5 in |
| Filtration | Multi-Layer | Medium to Fine |
| Filter | Bag/Cartridge, Bottom-load | Basket, Top-load |
| Cleaning Coverage | Floor, Walls, Waterline | Floor, Walls, Waterline |
| Brushes | 2 Brushes | 2 Brushes |
| Remote Control | No | Yes |
| Weekly Timer | Yes | Yes |
| Full Bag Indicator | Yes | Yes |
| Drive | Tracks | 4WD / 4 Wheels |
| Caddy | No | Yes |
| Release/First Seen | Mar, 2016 | Aug, 2014 |
| Price | Check price | Check price |
Wrap-up
Well, that’s it for this Polaris vs. Dolphin Comparison. We hope you found it helpful!
If you’re still having trouble deciding the Robotic Pool Cleaner that’s best for you, see our complete guide on these robotic pool cleaners.
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Last update on 2025-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API