Best Robot Vacuums
The top robot vacuums are great at picking up dust, pet hair and other messes from hard and carpet floors. However they leave a lot of debris on furniture and baseboards.
Many models can be controlled with an app for smartphones, but others require physical remotes for operation. Some include advanced features like LiDAR navigation, for instance, and floor maps that can be edited.
Object Avoidance
The best robot vacuums have sophisticated navigation systems that enable them to stay clear of obstacles like walls, cords and furniture. They also have technology for object-avoidance to identify toys, pet food and other debris that could get in the way or get caught by the suction blades. These features will help you save time by preventing your robot from getting trapped under the sofa or behind a bed.
Some of the most advanced robots, such as the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra and Samsung Jet Bot AI+ utilize lasers and cameras to create the map of your home. This allows them to navigate more accurately and precisely. They also can detect any changes to your living space, for instance if you move an item of furniture. This isn't a feature that every robot comes with, but it could make a significant difference in the performance and convenience of your new gadget.
automatic vacuum cleaner robotvacuummops of the less expensive models rely on simple sensors to guide them around your home. They are able to work in a variety of situations however they can get caught up in objects that are too close, like shoes and lamp cords. The cheaper robots lack the ability to learn from a missed obstacle, so you might have to create digital keep-out zones in your house for certain objects.
Even the best robot vacuums can get stuck on larger objects like chair legs or dog waste poop messes. The robot cleaner won't be able lift large objects and may be forced to push them over or around the edges of the room. This can leave unsightly scratches on your floors. If you have a cat or dog you may have to block its path with a box, a piece of furniture, or even a virtual barrier (which certain robots allow you to set up within the app).
The advanced robotic vacuums listed here employ objects detection to identify what is in their path even in low-light conditions. TrueDetect 3D obstacle-avoidance technology is available on the DEEBOT OMNI and the X1 OMNI, and OMNI robots. This technology can identify up to 30 kinds of obstacles with optimal lighting conditions.
Self-Emptying Basses
Self-emptying bases can be a useful feature, whether you have allergies or simply do not have the time to manually empty the dust bin of your robot vacuum at the end of every cleaning session. These bins can hold anything from 45 to 60 days of debris, so they must be cleaned more frequently than the bin on the robot's own.
This feature is offered on a variety of high-rated robot vacuums like the iRobot Roomba i3+, i7+, Shark's AI Robot, the Roborock S8, among others. But, you'll need purchase the self-emptying base separately in the event that it is not with the robot vacuum.
In addition to decreasing the amount of time you spend on cleaning the base, a self-emptying one will also help you save money on new dust bags and keep your home clean. Based on the model certain bases come with separate filters that can be used to capture allergens, but they may require cleaning regularly. Always use the manufacturer's recommended filters and accessories to maintain optimal performance.
One other factor to consider is the amount of suction power a robot can draw from. There isn't a standard power scale used by all companies, however some provide Pascal (Pa) which provides a rough idea of how the device performs. Generally speaking, the greater the Pa rating, the more powerful the vacuum.
Finally, a good robot should come with features that are easy to use and a user's manual that is easy to comprehend. A well-written manual can help you learn the basics and troubleshoot common issues, which is important since these machines aren't expensive. Find a comprehensive guide that explains setup as well as maintenance and troubleshooting techniques. You should be able in the event that you use an app on your mobile, to control the robot, to look up the available settings. You can then set them up by zones, rooms or flooring surfaces. Certain apps allow you to schedule specific cleaning sessions, and even command the robot with a voice. A number of popular brands allow you to create customized cleaning plans and set virtual no-go areas. The most effective robots let you save your cleaning schedule and return to it at any time you wish. If you fail to complete the task, the robot will resume where it began.
Long-Lasting Batteries
While robot vacuums do not have the same power as the full-sized corded upright or cordless stick models, their specialized motors are designed to be energy efficient. The best robot vacuums can last for a long time on a single charge of batteries. They also recharge themselves and begin cleaning themselves when they reach their base without the need to take them back to their base. In our tests, a battery life of 90 to 100 minutes is the ideal time for most households, and will allow you to clean your entire home in one move.
The typical dust bin on a robot vacuum will need to be emptied every few cleans. This can be a difficult task, particularly if you have a big home or lots of pet hair and dander to clean from your floors. This is where self-emptying robot vacuums can save you a lot of stress. This feature lets the machine empty its own dust bin and wash and dry its filter after each use so it is prepared for its next session of vacuuming.
Most robot vacuums also come with a removable or built-in water tank that allows them to clean your hard surfaces. This is especially useful when your floors are heavily tiled or have hardwood floors that require some extra attention between vacuuming sessions. However, these mopping robots generally don't have the level of suction that a traditional vacuum has and tend to struggle with spills of liquid.
If you're looking for a machine that can both vacuum and mop, consider an all-in-one combo robot like the Ecovacs Deebot T30S Combo or the Shark IQ XL. Both of these top choices offer excellent performance and great value. Both models have a high level of suction, and they have a large, self-emptying station. They don't have the sophisticated navigation of our top two robots, though, therefore they won't be able to tackle your entire home on a single charge.
Another alternative for a hands-free cleaning robot is the Eufy 11S. This inexpensive model doesn't have an integrated or removable water reservoir however, it does come with an excellent suction level (2,500 Pascals or Pa) and can be utilized to sweep, mop and spot clean your floors. The 11S isn't able to vacuum furniture or stairs, but it's still an excellent choice to keep your floors looking fresh in between mopping and vacuuming by hand.
Easy Maintenance
While robot vacuums are able to save you time and effort, they do require some daily maintenance. However, some models require less effort than others. Choose a model that has an automatic bottom that can be empty to cut down on the amount of time you'll need to manually empty the bin during cleaning sessions. This feature is particularly beneficial when your pet sheds often or have an habit to not remember to clean up and mop.
In addition to the standard features like suction and a rotating brush and suction, many of our top picks include extra features that can cut down cleaning time even more. Think about a multi-surface cleaner that has a mopping pads that can be removed, which are easy to attach and holds well, or a vacuum with LiDAR navigation that can recognize dirt spots around your home, and can be slowed down to clean them thoroughly.
Some models let you create a cleaning schedule, designate the rooms to be cleaned, and also use voice assistants for smart homes to control the vacuum with your voice. Some models have advanced software that can understand the layout of your home and navigate around obstacles. However, you'll be charged a premium for these features.
Robot vacuums are available in different prices, ranging from $100 for the ILife V3s pro, which only works on hardwood floors, up to $1,600 for the Roborock Q5 maximum+ that can vacuum and mop hardwood floors and carpets. As with most things that you purchase, if you require more features it will cost more, but there are options for every budget.
We have the best robotic vacuums for your needs, whether it's a a basic bump and roll vac or one that has intelligent mapping that can clean your washing board while you're away. This Black and Decker X40 has an excellent technology for avoiding objects, and can maneuver around furniture and toys without getting stuck. It's also equipped with WiFi and works with Alexa or Google Assistant so you can schedule cleanings and remotely control the vacuum.
For more advice on selecting the best robot vacuum, read our comprehensive guide to robotic mops as well as our buying guide for the best robotic vacuums. Make sure to look over our suggested shipping dates to ensure that your holiday delivery arrives on time.