Best Robot Vacuums

Robot Vacuums have gone from novelty item to trusted home appliance. Select a robot vacuum from the chart to clean your house automatically.

#2

eufy Boost IQ Robot Vacuum – 30C

Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 30 is a good blend of performance, features and value.

#3

DEENKEE Robot Vacuum DK600

Deenkee - DK600
Long run time with thorough cleaning time.

Best Robot Vacuums Featured in This Roundup:

List of the Best Robot Vacuums

1. iRobot 675 Roomba

Most popular Robot Vacuum and our Editor's Choice.
  • 3 Stage Cleaning system loosens, lifts, and suctions dirt, dust
  • Dual Multi Surface Brushes work together to grab dust, dirt, and large debris.
  • The Auto Adjust cleaning head automatically adapts its height to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors

2. iRobot Roomba 690 Review

iRobot Roomba 690
  • Trusted name brand vacuum cleaner, with wifi
  • 3-Stage cleaning system and multi-surface brushes
  • Good for pet hair, carpets, and hardwood. Self cleaning
Product Highlights
  • Jam-packed with useful features
  • One of the most robust robot vacuums for dirt
  • Customizable cleaning at the palm of your hands.
Pros
  • Strong suction and cleaning system
  • Works overtime in high traffic areas of the house
  • Built smaller than other robot vacuums
  • Contains its own dirt detect sensors
Cons
  • Only 90 minutes of continued use
  • Can wander around areas not meant for cleaning
Bottom Line

While the iRobot Roomba 690 Robot Vacuum delivers spectacularly on some aspects of cleaning, it is a bit of a let down in terms of being user-friendly. But if you have carpeted floors, and don't think that losing its way wouldn't be a problem, then this is an excellent addition to your home.

In the end, it had one too many problems to take off and beat the competition. But a few tweaks and revisions, and perhaps the iRobot Roomba 690 Robot Vacuum can become the dream robot vacuum it was always meant to be.

Read our in-depth iRobot Roomba 690 Review Review here.

3. iRobot Roomba 891

  • Power-Lifting Suction Delivers 5X Power
  • Dual Multi-surface brusehs adjust and flex
  • Run up to 90 Minutes
Bottom Line

iRobot's Roomba 891 can be a useful cleaning tool because it has more features than the usual robot vacuum. However, because of a few flaws in its system and interior design, its reputation isn't as high up as it would like to be, and the price tag that comes along with it doesn't help.

Because of its high price, it isn't able to make up for its bulky design and lackluster performance issues. In the end, iRobot has missed the mark with the Roomba 891, and it might be better to look for another model. But if you're into tech and smart features, and you can forgive the bumps along the way, then maybe the iRobot Roomba 891 can convince you of its worth.

Read our in-depth iRobot Roomba 891 Review here.

4. DEENKEE Robot Vacuum DK600

6 cleaning modes and plenty of extras included.
  • 6 cleaning modes allow total customization
  • Intelligent navigation to ensure no dead spots
  • Cleans pet hair, easily works on hardwood and carpet
  • Includes Extra Filters & Brushes
Product Highlights
  • Highly reliable and made from durable materials, no reports of any faulty units.
  • Powerful suction ensures that dirt is removed from the surface.
  • Comes with dedicated 24-hour customer service to assist with technical concerns.
  • Has no apparent flaws which make it so much more worth the price.
Pros
  • Can pick up different types of dirt
  • Has six cleaning modes to choose from
  • Keeps noise to a minimum
  • Can run for 100 minutes continuously
Cons
  • May not be able to detect cables, it is advisable to keep wires away.
Bottom Line

The Deenkee Robot Vacuum - DK600 not only does it clean your home, but it also serves us well by being cost-effective, functional, and entirely armed for the job it sets out to do. It hits all the marks we look for in a robot vacuum cleaner: it cleans thoroughly without needing the help of a person. It certainly makes our life more comfortable and improves our quality of life.

To wrap up, Deenkee has finally delivered us the house help we always needed and gave us more than we could ever hope for. If there was a robot vacuum to transcend the test of time, pick up one of these, and you won't have to look for another ever again.

Read our in-depth DEENKEE Robot Vacuum DK600 Review here.

5. eufy Boost IQ Robot Vacuum – 30C

New model increases suction capabilities and provides a better value.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity! Works with Google Assistant, and Alexa
  • Slim 2.85" Body allows for cleaning everywhere
  • Single Charge allows for 100 minutes of cleaning
Product Highlights
  • Functional, self-charging robot vacuum
  • Standard run time at 100 minutes, BoostIQ gives 50 minutes
  • Technologically advanced vacuum at an affordable price
Pros
  • Built-in Wifi, with its own EufyHome app
  • Slim body with powerful suction
  • Quiet Clean technology allows for low volume cleaning
  • Comes with remote control and 2 AAA batteries
Cons
  • Hyper mode eats up the batteries
  • May encounter difficulties with cables
Bottom Line

All in all, the Eufy [BoostIQ] RoboVac 30C packs a punch when it comes to cleaning, giving users the pleasure of relaxing while their Eufy RoboVac gently whisks their worries away. While it may not be the most affordable robot vacuum out there, it’s features are simply unbeatable and the convenience it delivers is second to none. 

Whether you have a messy or clean home, the Eufy [BoostIQ] RoboVac 30C will leave it even cleaner than before. If you want to take clean to a whole new level, and want to enjoy the cleaning routine of the week, then pick up this great addition to your home. 

 

Read our in-depth eufy Boost IQ Robot Vacuum – 30C Review here.

6. iLife 804 A8 Review

iLIFE 804 A8
  • Good vacuum with pet hair technology
  • Low profile design to clean under beds and sofas
  • Automatically docks and recharges
Product Highlights
  • Provides a unique set of features compared to the usual robot vacuum
  • A great improvement from the last iteration
  • "Roadrover" feature that focuses on stability on surfaces
Pros
  • Many features not seen in other robot vacuums
  • Unique technological development
  • Simple and elegant design
  • More affordable compared to other vacuums of the same kind
Cons
  • Can't be used on high-pile carpet
  • Need to clean up excess clutter on floor before cleaning (e.g. cables, bar stools, etc.)
Bottom Line

Did the iLife 804 A8 try to do too much? Perhaps it did, or maybe it just focused on the wrong things? Whatever the reason, there is no denying that after the initial delight in its fancy technology, the bitter truth is that it just doesn't hold up compared to other robot vacuums. Maybe in their next iteration, they should put time and effort into making a simple but working model, rather than a technologically advanced unit that breaks within a few uses.

And while it seems quite handy at first, the sheer volume in which these incidents occur is enough to throw off even avid fans of iLife's work through the years. However, its lower price tag might just be enough to sway potential buyers to give it a chance.

Read our in-depth iLife 804 A8 Review Review here.

7. Goovi Robot Vacuum

Poweful suction and self charging capabilites.
  • Strong and self charging vacuum
  • Low price compared to others in the market
Product Highlights
  • It is self-charging, which means you can clean for as long as you want
  • Gives families a peaceful, worry-free cleaning session
  • Unbeatable price compared to other vacuums of the same kind
Pros
  • Stronger suction compared to other brands
  • Decent run time allows it to clean for longer
  • Simplistic and discrete design
  • Affordable, but not the cheapest option
Cons
  • Known to have system errors that don’t follow its programming
  • Poorly written manual
Bottom Line

In the end, the Goovi Robot Vacuum comes with many helpful features that live up to our expectations. It fulfills the promise of a clean room and an effortless experience for the most part. However, because of overlooking small details, such as the suction power on pet hair, the excitement to use this may disappear sooner than expected.

The Goovi Robot Vacuum is still worth the unsavory errors due to its desirable price point. If you can work past the poorly written manual, picking off your pet's hair yourself, and the robot missing dirt once in a while, then this is the affordable robot vacuum you always dreamed of.

Read our in-depth Goovi Robot Vacuum Review here.

8. iRobot Roomba S9+

  • Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal System
  • Traps/Captures 99% of Pollen and Mold
  • Advanced vSLAM Navigation Technology
Product Highlights
  • Comes with a corner brush to give your whole home a full clean without missing tough to reach spots
  • One of the most feature-packed robot vacuums available now
  • Powered by innovative technology to thoroughly clean your home
Pros
  • Features that aren't seen in other vacuums
  • Ideal for homes with pets
  • Has all the best features from previous models
  • Creates a whole map of your home for precision cleaning
Cons
  • Bigger than other models
  • May be too expensive for a robot vacuum
Bottom Line

In conclusion, the iRobot Roomba S9+ is running ahead of other robot vacuums in terms of advanced technology but tumbles over the last hurdle by sacrificing its quality. And while it is undoubtedly a great addition to any home for the effective way it cleans, its defects show a bit too much to stand above the rest.

Even its one-of-a-kind features may not be enough to make up for the amount of negative impact it can bring into our cleaning routines and might be too hard to recover from. However, if you don't mind its small antics, are looking for a smart solution to your cleaning problems, and can shell out more than a thousand dollars, then you'll be happy to take the iRobot Roomba S9+ home.

Read our in-depth iRobot Roomba S9+ Review here.

9. Roborock E20 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Pros
  • Great navigation
  • Low profile
  • Mopping function useful for hard floors
Cons
  • Can miss clumps of dirt
  • No voice control via Alexa
Bottom Line

Overall, the Roborock E2 is an incredible robot vacuum. It is very advanced and offers the peak of convenience, power, efficiency, and navigation. For all of those reasons, it is a genuinely great purchase, especially if you want the best. But, for those same reasons, it may not be the best choice for you if you don’t need that level of performance. This is a “high-end” robot vacuum, and as such, it is a bit more expensive than other models. And if you don’t think you’ll use all of these features, then it’s best to find a model that is a bit less expensive, and perhaps, more focused on the basic features.

 

Navigating with a higher degree of precision than many budget robot vacuum cleaners, the Roborock E2 punches way above its price. Throw in the fact that it can also perform the occasional mop, and it seems a bargain. That said, some things hold it back. At times the E2 will miss dirt, sweeping it away from the wall and then running away. The lack of Amazon Alexa support is also a touch disappointing, given that the bigger Roborock S5 offers such support. The competition is intense: if mopping isn’t a priority, then the Ecovacs Deebot N79S may be a better choice.

 

If you want a robot that will mop brilliantly, then you need to spend a bit more on the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo 930. For better all-round cleaning, you’ll have to pay extra on one of the more expensive machines in our list of Best Robot Vacuums. However, if you’re after a device that can clean and mop at a low price, it’s hard to beat the Roborock E2 in terms of value — although you may need to get it to do a couple of sweeps for the best performance.

 

Read our in-depth Roborock E20 Robot Vacuum Cleaner Review here.

10. dser RoboGeek 21T

Pros
  • Operates quiet enough for sleep
  • Wi-Fi enabled with Remote Control
  • Sports the manufacturer's signature Boost Gen feature
Cons
  • Only comes with a 1-year warranty
Bottom Line

Is the RoboGeek 21T the right choice, you ask? We’d say it’s a worthwhile investment. To begin with, you get sturdy construction. The round profile is durable and easy on your furniture. And its slim profile allows the vacuum to travel under any furniture that sits three inches or higher from the ground. You’ll also get powerful suction, nearly as much as you’d expect from a typical upright vacuum. And if battery life is a concern, it doesn’t need to be. This RoboGeek vacuum offers a long-lasting 100 minutes of battery life. Better yet, it returns to the charging base automatically, so the only maintenance you’ll need to do is to change the dust bin periodically.

 

The RoboGeek 21T also has several extra features that add a lot of value. The magnetic strips are a nice touch since they allow you to corral the unit into a specific area. And the infrared sensor is useful as well, protecting your vacuum — and your baseboards — from constant bumping and banging. We also loved the BoostGen setting, since it saves your batteries while you’re on a smooth surface, then turns up the power when you need it most. Based on all of the above, we’d say the 21T is well worth the investment.

Read our in-depth dser RoboGeek 21T Review here.

11. DeenKee DK700 Robot Vacuum

Pros
  • Excellent cleaning performance overall
  • Six different cleaning modes
  • Comes with a remote control and App 
Cons
  • To get the best cleaning performance on carpet, you need to use MAX mode (which lowers battery life)
  • May have inconsistencies in performance
Bottom Line

In the end, the DeenKee DK700 delivers an excellent performance. With its six different cleaning options, you can make sure that it can accommodate all your cleaning needs — its MAX mode is guaranteed to provide a powerful suction system that will eliminate dirt on any surface. And with its new gyroscope system, you can count on it to reach every inch of the home for a thorough clean. 

However, due to its inconsistencies, it misses out on being the best robot vacuum that it has the potential to be. Overall, though, it has some of the best features available on robot vacuums today and even has advanced features that we don't always see in other models in the market. Plus, its budget-friendly price is one that anyone can appreciate, and for the performance it gives, we can undoubtedly say that this purchase is worth it. 

Read our in-depth DeenKee DK700 Robot Vacuum Review here.

12. dser RoboGeek 20T

Pros
  • Maneuvers easily under beds and sofas
  • Cleans for up to 100 minutes
  • Comes with two bands of magnetic boundary strips
Cons
  • Battery shortage problems
  • Doesn't come with an app
Bottom Line

So, is the RoboGeek 20T worth buying? We’d say it’s a worthwhile investment. To begin with, you get sturdy construction. The round profile is durable and easy on your furniture. Its slim profile allows the vacuum to travel under any furniture that sits three inches or higher off the ground. You’ll also get powerful suction, nearly as much as you’d expect from a typical upright vacuum. And if battery life is a concern, it doesn’t need to be — this RoboGeek vacuum offers a long-lasting 100 minutes of battery life. Better yet, it returns to the charging base automatically, so the only maintenance you’ll need to do is to change the dust bin periodically.

The RoboGeek 20T also has several extra features that add a lot of value. The magnetic strips are a nice touch since they allow you to corral the unit into a specific area. And the infrared sensor is effective as well, protecting your vacuum – and your baseboards – from constant bumping and banging. We also loved the BoostGen setting, since it saves your batteries while you’re on a smooth surface, then turns up the power when you need it most. Based on all of the above, we’d say the 20T is well worth the investment.

Read our in-depth dser RoboGeek 20T Review here.

13. Pureatic V2S Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Pros
  • Intelligent drop sensor technology
  • Low noise level
  • Up to 120 minutes of cleaning
Cons
  • Battery problems 
  • Weak performance on soft surfaces
Bottom Line

Despite its shortcomings, the Pureatic V2S is still a highly functional cleaner that can serve multiple purposes. In the end, this entry is an excellent robot vacuum and is one of the most affordable robot vacuums on the market. With its powerful performance on hard floors, its quiet running system, and different cleaning modes, the V2S has more to offer compared to other brands of the same price range. And for such an affordable option, it gives us the choice of two different control options; through the smartphone app or its remote control — which is not something you always find in low tier vacuums. 

Its many features include advanced technology beyond what one would expect from such a simple device, including the various sensors equipped into this flexible robot vacuum. And to add to that, the Pureatic V2S also comes with triple filters to ensure a thorough clean that will leave your home cleaner and healthier for your family and pets. And with its superior battery life, you can get more done with the V2S, whether you only need it for a quick clean or a thorough clean of the whole house. Lastly, the manufacturer's warranty is set to back you up for an entire year for a worry-free experience. So, if you’re looking for a robot vacuum that offers some excellent features, but without the hefty price tag that many other robot vacuums come with, then the Pureatic V2S Robot Vacuum Cleaner is a fantastic choice!

Read our in-depth Pureatic V2S Robot Vacuum Cleaner Review here.

14. Dibea D500 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

Pros
  • Plenty of features
  • Unique combination of vacuum and mop
  • Extras that add to its functionality
Cons
  • Customer service is lacking
  • Some navigational issues
Bottom Line

In the end, the Dibea D500 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner has many highlights to offer but also suffers from a few flaws in its system and its customer service. However, we still believe this model is still an excellent contender as one of the best mid-range robot vacuums. It comes with a variety of standard features that you can find in many of today's robovacs and more than the usual mid-range robovac. Its many cleaning modes allow you to decide when you want your home cleaned and how to do it. 

While the D500 may not have an app linked to it, this doesn't stop it from being a great vacuum and mopping device. From its hefty battery capacity to its HEPA filters that promote a healthy environment, this robovac has everything you could need, all at an affordable price. Overall, the Dibea D500 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner is still one of the best and most affordable vacuums out in the market right now. Despite its shortcomings, we can't ignore how much value has been put into one device that can not only clean floors, but also tiles, carpets, and other surfaces. There's no better time to buy a D500 than today, so grab one now for just under $180 and see the difference in your home. 

Read our in-depth Dibea D500 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner Review here.

15. BISSELL EV675 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Pros
  • Multi-floor cleaning
  • It’s surprisingly very quiet
  • Long-lasting battery
Cons
  • The dirt bin is relatively small
  • It doesn’t map out the room
  • No smart home connectivity
Bottom Line

While there are many good things about the BISSELL EV675 robot vacuum, there is also room for improvement. Despite its shortcomings, however, we would recommend it any day. Given that it’s very quiet, efficient, and can clean thoroughly under furniture, it’s a pretty decent choice for anyone looking for a budget vacuum. There's also much to love with this simple yet effective vacuum that just can't be ignored. Because of its user-friendly design, people of any age won't have to be intimidated by using a technologically advanced device, especially for older users. 

In conclusion, the BISSELL EV675 is a easy-to-use and straightforward robot vacuum. It isn’t particularly advanced or incredibly powerful, but it’s affordable, and it works very well. If that’s what you need, then this is a fantastic choice. It offers more than just the budget price though, with its quickly programmable cleaning modes, excellent performance on all types of surfaces, and its functional design, this unit is one of the best entry-level robovacs in the market. And with its quiet running system, anyone can enjoy having their Sunday cleaning at home.

Read our in-depth BISSELL EV675 Robot Vacuum Cleaner Review here.

16. Noisz by ILIFE S5 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Pros
  • Plenty of features
  • Multiple cleaning modes
  • Great battery life
Cons
  • May have furniture detection problems
  • May have less effective results on softer surfaces
Bottom Line

For only $170, the ILIFE S5 Robot Vacuum Cleaner is one of the better low-cost robovacs available in the market now. It is perfect for anyone new to robot vacuums, for older users who don't want to deal with too much technology and for families who wish to use a low-profile product that won't attract much attention. Its simplistic yet functional design allows it to clean effectively, and its extra features that you wouldn't usually find in other same-priced products gives so much more value. From its various cleaning modes to its 12-month worry-free warranty, the ILIFE S5 certainly offers more than what is expected from its price tag. 

Despite having more than a few bugs and errors in its system, we really can't expect the ILIFE S5 to be perfect. In fact, we're impressed that it performs as well as it already does, and if future iterations can be improved upon, then we do not doubt that this simple device can one day be compared to some of the best robovacs in the market. In conclusion, if you’re looking for a robot vacuum that doesn’t cost that much money, but delivers an excellent vacuuming experience, then you can’t go wrong with the Noisz by ILIFE S5 Robot Vacuum Cleaner! Not only is it an exceptional robot vacuum, but it's also packed with features, and it costs very little money!

Read our in-depth Noisz by ILIFE S5 Robot Vacuum Cleaner Review here.

17. OPODEE Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

Pros
  • Various Cleaning Modes
  • Powerful suction
  • Smart features
Cons
  • Problems with navigation
  • May shut down prematurely
Bottom Line

There's no doubt that the OPODEE Robotic Vacuum Cleaner is one of the better budget-friendly options we've had the pleasure of reviewing. And while it's not so popular in the market and hasn't built up its name just yet, there's certainly plenty of time for consumers to get acquainted with this new brand. It not only offers excellent performance, but it also serves as a great alternative to the overly-pricey yet disappointing mainstream robovacs in the market. Its ease of use coupled with its powerful suction and the long-lasting battery delivers a unit that not only exceeds our expectations but also gives it a credibility that you just can't find in robovacs of the same price. 

Even with its apparent flaws, the OPODEE Robotic Vacuum Cleaner is still well worth the investment, and for only $210, you get much more than you bargained for. However, be warned that it doesn’t include a scheduling feature, so you will have to activate it yourself, whenever you want your home to be cleaned. This may be somewhat inconvenient, especially since most other robot vacuums do include a scheduling feature. Ultimately, if you want a convenient and efficient robot vacuum that is incredibly affordable, you can’t go wrong with the OPODEE Robotic Vacuum Cleaner. You shouldn't deprive your home of the quality clean that this unit provides, now is the best time to get your own OPODEE Robotic Vacuum Cleaner.

Read our in-depth OPODEE Robotic Vacuum Cleaner Review here.

Best Robot Vacuums Buyers Guide

The future is now, even if it’s not as exciting as most hoped it would be. Robot vacuums hit the scene with the original Roomba in 2002, but there is now a wide variety of autonomous cleaners to choose from. Finding the best robot vacuum is a bit tricky, however.

For those on the hunt for a great autonomous cleaning solution, robots are the way to go. Knowing is half the battle, however, so let’s hop right in with the why’s and how’s of these excellent devices. There’s more than meets the eye to making sure that a person ends up with a great one.

Who Needs a Robot Vacuum?

Contrary to the marketing claims, autonomous vacuum cleaners really aren’t going to eliminate the need for the old school stuff. They’re primarily useful as a way to reduce the amount of work needed when it comes time to actually clean.

Even the best designed robot can’t currently do the same job as an upright vacuum with a human guiding it. It’s unfortunate but true.

However, for those who regularly find their floors crawling with crumbs, pet hair, dust, and other small debris they’re an excellent stop-gap measure. One should think less of a robot vacuum as an alternative and more as a supplement to normal house cleaning.

Since the robot can be set to clean while you’re away they’re also hassle-free. Just let them do their thing and the majority of small debris will practically disappear. Even the best isn’t going to let you skip your next spring cleaning however.

What to Look for in a Robot Vacuum

Fifteen years ago the choice was much easier than it is today: Roomba was the only game in town and it was just a matter of which model you could fit into your budget.

The technology has advanced quite a bit since those humble beginnings, however, and while Roomba still holds the bulk of the market share there are some serious competitors out there. For the potential buyer that means checking the following qualities is much better than vetting by brand.

Size

Size matters a lot with a robot vacuum, especially if you’re planning on clearing out the undersides of tables, beds and couches with it.

Most are 4” or shorter, but a vacuum which is under 3” is ideal for those who are using them to clean underneath furniture.

The overall size of the bot also matters quite a bit. Most of them are round and those with a bigger diameter won’t be able to get in as tightly on corners and around square edges as those which have a smaller width.

Suction and Waste Capacity

Each robot has their own quirks when it comes to picking things up. For the most part the thing to look for is superior suction power compared to other models combined with a larger waste compartment.

In an unfortunate twist of fate, no robot vacuum can empty itself at the current stage of the technology. That means a larger storage area for dust, hair, and other debris will lower the overall maintenance on the vacuum.

These are make or break features for your vacuum. Without them even the smartest, lowest-profile autonomous cleaner will end up being useless overall.

Path Finding

While the early generations of robot vacuums didn’t have much in the way of AI, newer models can do some surprising things. Most of us still have visions of the earliest models bumping their way around the room haphazardly, but newer models have come quite a long ways.

Different systems work in different ways, but for the most part, the average consumer is best served by something which will at least map the room. Some of the more advanced robots not only map the room but also keep track of the areas they’ve already gone over, making them much more efficient with their energy storage.

Battery Life

While it’s not a big concern for those living in smaller apartments, those who are planning on allowing their vacuum to get the whole house should keep a close eye on the estimated battery life of their robot.

Longer battery lives mean more cleaning per charge and most people program their vacuums to only clean once per day. It also means a better chance of making it back to the dock, some of the cheaper models have a tendency to die in awkward places like under couches which just means more work for the owner.

That said, it only becomes a big concern once the square footage to be cleaned reaches 1,000 or more square feet. Those with smaller homes shouldn’t spend too much time worrying about this factor.

Additional Tech Capabilities

Robot vacuums run from relatively simple little bots that just do their thing at the time they’re programmed to wifi connected smart vacuums that will tie in with your phone and any voice service you may have like Amazon Alexa or Google Home.

This is largely a personal choice. Not everyone wants to get updates on what their robot is up to during the day or wants to be able to activate it with a simple voice command. Others do.

Just be aware that the more technology is crammed in the little bot, the more expensive it’s going to be and it doesn’t necessarily mean an upgrade to the base functionality of the device as a whole. More tech also means more battery usage, so they may not be the best option for larger homes as well.

Ease of Use

There are two main parts of the process which need to be easy: setting the robot up to run at the designated time and being able to empty debris storage. For those with less advanced capabilities it can also mean the ease of clearing jams.

It’s a big factor and the reason that many robot vacuums end up permanently on their dock at one point or another. The easier it is to use, the more likely a person is to keep using it. Even the budget models aren’t cheap, so carefully consider any complaints about the autonomous vacuum being hard to set up before committing to the model.

HEPA Filters and Pets

For those who have pets around, a robot vacuum is often a great way to keep pet hair build up down when you’re busy. That said, some are much more adept at this than others.

HEPA filters reduce the amount of free-floating dander in the air. While they add an extra bit of maintenance since they need to be replaced they’re a standard issue feature in any robot vacuum marketed to pet owners. They also remove pollen and other allergens that can creep their way in by a large amount.

Models designed for pet owners often have slightly different bristles as well. These bristles are adept at removing pet hair from the surface underneath them, even if it’s stuck down by something else.

Warranties

Robot vacuums are complex, even the relatively simple ones. They have motors, servos, and tons of different components that allow them to handle cleaning without needing human intervention.

That, unfortunately, also means there’s a lot of failure points spread through the vacuum as a whole. One bad component making it through quality control can spell an inoperable robot, turning an expensive appliance into a glorified paperweight.

Check the warranty which is offered with the vacuum. With reputable brands the consumer is unlikely to need it, but it shows both faith in their products and that you’ll be able to get a replacement if something does happen.

Setting Up for a Robot Vacuum

Using an autonomous cleaner requires a bit of set up prior to getting things going. If you have an extremely cluttered floor, it may just not work out without some modifications.

There are also some limitations to what even the best autonomous cleaner can do.

The biggest trip up?

Stairs. While there are a few multimillion dollar robots designed to climb stairs… they’re not vacuums. With the current state of technology there’s simply no way for your new robot cleaner to get up and down stairs.

It’s something to keep in mind when you invest in one. Ideally you may have one for every floor, but in practice most people only use their robots on the first floor, which is ideal since these floors are usually the heaviest trafficked in the home.

Preparation isn’t that hard, but it will require some work. In general the following steps are enough to get the most out of the bot:

Clear any unnecessary clutter on the floor. Measure the width of the robot for going under things like tables and shelves with a high bottom as well so you know the areas it won’t be able to get into.
Clear a good sized space around the docking station. The dock also acts to let the robovac know where it’s at since it’s a triangulation point but the important thing is to put it in an area where the vacuum has a clear path back so it can recharge.
Clear tiny, hard objects from the floor. Things like nails, screws, and even small toys can damage the internals of the robovac and may not be covered under warranty.
Try to keep cords off the floor in the areas cleaned as much as possible. Networking or charging cables are a particular hazard since they’re thinner than most electrical cords but robovacs can easily find themselves tangled in just about anything if care isn’t taken.
High piles carpet and shag rugs are a no go. Robovacs are almost always low profile and they can easily get their brushes entangled within thicker carpeting. Keep the robot out of these rooms or program it to avoid these areas depending on the model and capabilities it offers.
Be careful about letting the vacuum in rooms where there may be water present on the floor like the kitchen or bathrooms. Most aren’t wet/dry vacuums and getting water in the internals is a quick way to end up with a very fancy and expensive door stop instead of a functioning appliance.
Either leave a light on or crack the blinds if you’re allowing the robotic appliance to clean when you’re not home. The vast majority rely primarily on optical sensors so they’ll tend to fumble in the dark.

It’s not a whole lot to handle in most homes, but it’s essential to making the most of an autonomous vacuum. Some small preparations go a long way in making the most out of your cleaner.

How Much Does a Robot Vacuum Cost?

Robovacs are expensive, especially since they’re mostly an adjunct to regular cleaning. They’re perfect for someone who simply doesn’t have the time to regularly clean the house but has the extra money to afford one.

An entry level model usually runs around $200. These are pretty basic and it’s best to look for solid core functions at this price point. Any extras like wifi and app connectivity come at the cost of suction and navigation.

Mid-range models run from $300-$500 which is the right price for most people. At this level you can expect solid core functions, a decent warranty, and a decent app to activate the robovac remotely or check on it’s progress.

Lastly, there are premium models which can run to over $1,000. These models can be expected to be above and beyond the normal fare. They also tend to have much better batteries which is a driving force behind the higher pricing. Unfortunately, they’re still not miracle workers so you’ll still need a decent upright for serious messes.

Most homes will be best served with a robovac which is in the middle of the possible price range.

While the cheaper ones can work well, they often require more preparation and forethought in dock placement, clutter clearing, and the rest of the work that goes into properly prepping a home for a robovac.

Robot Vacuum FAQ

Q: How do robot vacuums find their way around the house?
A: Robovacs use a series of sensors that allow them to find their way. Optical sensors on the wheels, for instance, are common to measure distance in those vacuums which have the ability to map a room. CNET has a good breakdown on all of the technology involved if you’re interested in an in-depth explanation but it’s mostly run-of-the-mill sensors and good programming.

Q: Are there any models of robot vacuum which can navigate stairs?
A: Even now, seventeen years since the first Roomba hit the market, there are no models which can handle stairs. It’s not surprising either, even leading robotics labs using legged robots are still having trouble getting things right, let alone the relatively basic frame of a robovac.

Q: Is there any floor surface a robot vacuum won’t clean?
A: High pile and shag carpeting are both a no-go when it comes to using an autonomous cleaner. A good robovac is low-profile which often means there simply isn’t any room. For vinyl, hardwood, tile, and low-to-medium pile carpets, however, there should be no problem with the vast majority of models.

Q: Are there any robot vacuums which empty their own debris?
A: Some of the very expensive, high end models of robot vacuum now come with bases that will collect debris when the robot returns to dock. You’ll still have to empty the larger debris collection tray eventually, however.

Q: Can a robot vacuum clean my whole house?
A: Yes… and no. While your bot, with enough battery life, can run through a surprisingly large area during the day there are always going to be spots it can’t reach. Most will occasionally miss a spot as well. It’s best to think of them as a way to keep housework a bit easier, rather than a complete solution regardless of how much money you’re willing to throw at one.

Q: How often should I run my robot vacuum?
A: Most people keep theirs set to once a day, generally while they’re not home. Others may only use it a few times a week. The important thing is to find a schedule which works for you, our primary suggestion would be to make sure it at least runs the day or two before you plan on grabbing the upright and handling things.

Q: How advanced is the AI in robotic vacuums?
A: While they seem surprisingly advanced to those not “in the know” the AI in even the most complex models is relatively simple. They’re much more worker ant than potential Skynet. Machine learning implementation in some of the new models allows for mapping a house and changing their map with the floorplan over time but the intricacy really comes from the interplay of a few coded requirements and the advanced sensors used.

Q: What’s a reasonable amount of time for a robot vacuum to last?
A: In our research we found that the average lifespan for a robotic vacuum seems to sit around five years before failure of the device. It largely depends on how you’re using it, but as long as your robovac isn’t regularly dropping down stairs or getting kicked around they’ll usually have a good lifespan.

Q: Why does my robot vacuum keep circling one area?
A: Most often this is due to debris which the vacuum recognizes but simply can’t pick up. Check the area to see if you can find anything first, but these problems can also occur with dirty or malfunctioning sensors.

Q: Do robot vacuums stop when they’re full?
A: It depends on the model. The early Roombas, for instance, would keep cleaning no matter if they could pick things up or not. Newer ones without an auto-dump built into the charging dock will often return to save battery life once they’re filled. Expect cheaper models to keep going unless they’re specifically listed to do otherwise.

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Did you know?

Robot Vacuums

The very first robotic vacuum cleaner was made by the Swedish appliance company, Electrolux, and it hit the market in 1996. This original robot vacuum was called the Trilobite and it was such a novelty, it was featured on the BBC science show, Tomorrow’s World. Although the Trilobite worked fairly well, it had issues with running into furniture and other household objects. It also stopped short of walls while cleaning, which left areas that weren’t vacuumed at all, and most likely contributed to Trilobite production being discontinued.

In 2001, the British technology company Dyson created their own version of the robot vacuum and called it the DC06, but it was too costly to make and the team over at Dyson decided to call a halt to the project before it could be mass produced.
It was a year later that an American tech company called iRobot took a stab at making a robot vacuum, and the Roomba entered the scene. This new and improved robotic vacuum cleaner was able to automatically avoid obstacles, detect dirt on flooring, and keep itself from falling down the stairs.