Dolphin E10 (2025 Model) – Our Best for Above-Ground Pools In-Depth Review

The Dolphin E10 is engineered to be an efficient floor cleaner for above-ground pools up to 30 feet in length. Its primary weapon against dirt is a **powerful active scrubbing brush** that rotates at high speed. This brush action is significantly more effective than passive cleaners, as it actively dislodges stubborn dirt, algae, and bacteria from the pool floor before they are vacuumed into the filter. For navigation, the E10 utilizes Maytronics' **CleverClean™ Smart Navigation** system. This technology scans the pool and employs advanced algorithms to create an efficient cleaning path, ensuring that the entire pool floor receives coverage during its standard 1.5-hour cleaning cycle. This systematic approach is a notable step up from random-pattern cleaners, leading to a more thorough clean with fewer missed spots. Its track system provides good traction and maneuverability on typical above-ground pool surfaces.

The E10 comes standard with a **fine filter kit** housed in an easy-access, **top-loading filter basket**. This design is highly user-friendly; you simply lift the filter out from the top of the unit, unlatch the bottom, and rinse it clean. This means no direct contact with the collected debris, which is a nice touch. The standard filter is effective for capturing common above-ground pool debris like leaves, bugs, and general dirt. With a suction rate of **4000 gallons per hour (GPH)**, it efficiently processes water and removes contaminants. For pools that experience very fine particulate matter like silt or pollen, Dolphin offers ultra-fine filter panels as an optional replacement part to enhance its filtration capabilities.

The Dolphin E10 operates as a **corded electric pool cleaner**, eliminating concerns about battery life or recharging that come with cordless models. It includes a **40-foot power cable**, providing ample reach for most above-ground pool setups. The power supply is a simple plug-and-play unit with an on/off button, transforming standard household current into a safe low DC voltage for underwater operation. For safety, the power supply should always be positioned at least 10 feet from the pool's edge. One important aspect to note is that the E10 is a straightforward machine focused on effective cleaning rather than advanced automation. It does not feature a weekly timer, mobile app connectivity, or remote control capabilities. Operation is manual – you start it when you need it.

This is where the Dolphin E10 truly shines for its target audience. "Plug and play" is the name of the game. There's no complex assembly or installation. Connect the power supply, place the robot in the water, press the power button, and it gets to work. Its **lightweight and compact design** (around 14.6 lbs) makes it exceptionally easy to handle, lift, and store – a significant advantage for above-ground pool owners who may not have built-in storage or easy deck access. As mentioned, the top-loading filter basket makes maintenance quick and hygienic. The primary ongoing task is simply rinsing the filter after each cycle to maintain optimal performance.