Best Robot Vacuums
The top robot vacuums are excellent in removing dust, pet hair and other debris from carpet and hard floors. However they leave a lot of debris on baseboards and furniture.
Many models can be controlled by a smartphone app, but others require physical remotes for operation. Some models include advanced features such as LiDAR navigation and floor plans that can be edited.
Object Avoidance
The best robot vacuums are equipped with sophisticated navigation systems which allow them to avoid obstacles such as cords, walls, and furniture. They also have technology to avoid objects that detect pets, toys and other items that could get in the way of the machine, or be caught up in the suction. These features will help you save time by stopping your robot from becoming stuck under the couch or behind a bed.
Some of the most advanced robots such as the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra or Samsung Jet Bot AI+ use lasers and cameras to create an outline map. This lets them navigate more precisely and accurately. They also can detect changes in your living space, such as when you move an item of furniture. This isn't something every robot has, but it could make a significant difference to the performance and comfort of your new appliance.
Many of the cheaper models rely on sensors to guide them around your home. They can be useful in many situations however, they can get hung up on items that are too close, like shoes and lamp cords. They are cheaper and don't have the capability of learning when an obstacle is missed. You may need to create digital zones around your home to keep certain objects from being thrown away.
Even the best robot vacuums may be stuck on larger objects like chair legs or dog waste poop messes. If the object is too big, the robotic cleaner may not be capable of lifting it and will likely be forced to push it over or around the edge of the room, causing unsightly skid marks on your floors. If you have a pet or cat, you might need to block their path with a box or furniture. Some robots permit you to create a virtual barrier within the app.
The advanced robotic vacuums listed below use object detection to determine what is in the front of them, even in low-light conditions. TrueDetect 3D obstacle-avoidance technology is available on the DEEBOT OMNI and X1 OMNI, and OMNI robots. This technology can identify up to 30 types of obstacles in optimal lighting.
Self-Emptying Basses
Whether you have allergies or just don't have the time to manually empty the dust bin of a robot vacuum after every cleaning session, self-emptying bases are an option to look for. They can hold between 45 to 60 days of waste, meaning they need to be emptied much less frequently than the robot's onboard bin.
Several top-rated robotic vacuums have this feature that includes the iRobot Roomba i3+ and i7+ models, Shark's AI robot, the Roborock S8, and several others. However, you'll need to purchase the self-emptying base separately unless it comes with the robot vacuum.
A self-emptying base will not just save your time, but also save you money on dust bags. It also keeps your home clean. Based on the model the base comes with separate filters that are able to trap allergens, however they will require cleaning periodically. You should always use the manufacturer's recommended filters and accessories to maintain optimal performance.
The suction power of a robot is another factor to be considered. Although there isn't a universal power scale that all companies use, some provide Pascal (Pa) levels to give an idea of the machine's performance. In general the more powerful the Pa rating, the more powerful the vacuum bot.
A good robot should also have features that are easy to use, as well as a user's guide that is simple to follow. A well-written guide will aid you in understanding the basics and solve issues, which is crucial since these machines aren't inexpensive. You should seek out an instruction manual that contains guidelines for maintenance setting up, troubleshooting and configuration. You should be able if you are using an application on mobile, to control the robot to view a list of the available settings. You can then set them up by rooms, zones or even individual floor surfaces. Some apps let you schedule specific cleaning sessions, and even command the robot using voice. Many well-known brands allow you to make customized cleaning plans and set virtual no-go zones. The most effective robots allow you to save the cleaning schedule and come back to it whenever you like. If you fail to complete the task, then the robot will pick up where it started.
Long-Lasting Batteries
Robot vacuums may not have the power as upright corded models or cordless stick vacuums however, their motors are efficient. The best robot vacuums can run for several hours on a single charge of batteries. They also charge themselves and begin cleaning when they reach their home base, without needing to join them. In our tests, we discovered that a 90-100 minute battery lifespan is perfect for the majority of homes, and will provide enough time to tidy your entire apartment in one go.
The dust bin of a robot vacuum needs to be cleaned out after every couple of cleanings. This can be a difficult task, especially if you have a large residence or a lot of pet hair on your floors. This is where a self-emptying robot vacuum can help you avoid a lot of frustration. This feature lets the vacuum empty its own dust bin, and even clean and dry its filter after each use so it is ready for its next vacuuming sessions.
Most robot vacuums have an adjustable or built-in water tank, which allows them to clean hard surfaces. This is particularly useful when you have tiled floors or hardwood floors that require a little extra attention between vacuuming sessions. These mopping machines don't typically have the same suction as a traditional vacuum and struggle to get rid of liquid spills.
Consider a robot which can vacuum and mop at the same time such as the Ecovacs T30S Combo Robot or the Shark IQ XL. These two top options are both top-quality and provide great value. Both have a high level of suction, and they come with a large self-emptying station. They might not have the advanced navigational capabilities of our top-rated robots therefore they might not be able tackle the entire house with a single charge.
Eufy 11S is another option for a hands free mopping robot. This inexpensive model does not have a removable or built-in water reservoir. However, it has high suction (2,500 Pa) and can be used to mop, sweep and spot clean your floor. The 11S isn't able to vacuum stairs or furniture however it's an excellent choice to keep your floors looking clean between mopping and vacuuming by hand.
Easy Maintenance
Robot vacuums are great for reducing time and energy, but they require daily maintenance. There are some models that require less effort than others. For instance, select an item with a self-emptying bin to cut down on the number instances you need to empty the trash can manually during cleaning sessions. This feature is especially useful if your pets shed a lot or have a habit to forget to sweep up and mop.
Most of our top picks include additional features that reduce cleaning time. These include rotating brushes and suction. Look into a multisurface cleaner that comes with a mopping mat that's easy to put on and stays in the right place or a vacuum cleaner that utilizes LiDAR navigation to recognize dirt spots in your home, allowing it to remove them completely.
Some models allow you to set a timer, designate rooms to be cleaned and use smart home voice assistants to control the vacuum using your voice. Certain models come with advanced software that can learn the layout of your home and overcome obstacles. However, you will be charged a premium for these premium features.
You can find robot vacuums that will fit into any budget, from the $100 ILife V3s Pro which works on wood floors only to the $1,600 Roborock Q5Max+ that can mop and vacuum both hardwood floors and carpets. As with everything else that you purchase, if you require more features, it will cost more but there are options to suit every budget.
We have the top robot vacuums for your needs, whether it's a an easy bump and roll vac or one with intelligent mapping that can wash your laundry while you're away. This Black and Decker X40 has excellent object-avoidance technology, maneuvering around furniture and toys without getting stuck. It's wifi-equipped and works with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can use your smartphone to schedule cleaning times or remotely control the vac.
For more tips on choosing the best robot vacuum, take a look at our comprehensive guide to robotic mops as well as our buying guide to the best robotic vacuums. Be sure to keep track of our suggested cutoff dates for shipping to ensure that your Christmas delivery will arrive on time.