Best Robot Vacuums

The best robot vacuums are great at picking up dust, pet hair and other particles from carpet and hard floors. However they leave a lot behind on furniture and baseboards.

Many models can be controlled with a smartphone app, but others require physical remotes for operation. Some models have advanced features, such as LiDAR navigation or editable floor maps.

Object Avoidance

The most efficient robot vacuums feature sophisticated navigation systems that can stay clear of obstacles like furniture, walls and cords. They have object-avoidance technologies that can identify pets, toys and other items that could block the path of the machine or get taken up by the suction. These features will help you save time by stopping your robot from becoming stuck under the couch or behind the bed.

Some of the most advanced robots, like the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra and Samsung Jet Bot AI+ utilize lasers and cameras to create an image of your home. This allows them to navigate more precisely and accurately. They can also detect changes to your living space, for instance when you move an item of furniture. This isn't something that every robot has, but it can make a significant difference in the performance and ease of your new device.

Many of the less expensive models rely on basic bump sensors to guide them through your home. They can be useful in most circumstances however, they can get caught up in objects that are too close, like lamp cords and shoes. The cheaper robots lack the capability to learn from an obstacle that was missed and you may have to create digital keep-out zones within your house for certain objects.

Even the best robot vacuums can be stuck on larger objects, like large pet poop or chairs legs. If the object is too large the robot may not be capable of lifting it and will likely be forced to push it across or around the edge of the room, leaving unsightly skid marks on your floors. In the case of pets or cats it is possible to block its path with the use of a box, piece of furniture, or even a virtual barrier (which certain robots allow you to set up in the app).

The more advanced robotic vacuum cleaner commercial vacuums listed here use object detection that works under low and optimal lighting conditions to detect what's in the vicinity of them. The DEEBOT OMNI and X1 OMNI robots, for instance, have TrueDetect 3D obstacle avoidance that can sense up to 30 different types of obstacles in optimal lighting conditions.

Self-Emptying Bases

Self-emptying bases are a useful feature, whether you have allergies or simply do not have the time to manually empty the dustbin of your robot vacuum at the end of every cleaning session. These devices hold anywhere from 45 to 60 days worth of trash, which means they need to be emptied more frequently than the bin on the robot's own.

Several top-rated robotic vacuum cleaner comparison vacuums have this feature that includes the iRobot Roomba i3+ and i7+ models Shark's AI robotics, the Roborock S8, and several others. You'll need purchase the self-emptying base separately unless it is included with your robot.

Self-emptying bases will not just save you time, but also money on dust bags. It also keeps your home spotless. Based on the model, some bases have 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 ensure optimal performance.

The suction power of a robot is another factor to be considered. There is no standard power scale that is used by all companies, however some provide Pascal (Pa), which provides a rough idea of the performance of the device. In general the more powerful the Pa rating the more powerful the vacuum.

Also, a quality robot should come with features that are easy to use and a user's manual that is simple to read. A well-written manual will help you learn the basics and resolve common issues, which is important because these machines aren't cheap. You should seek out an instruction manual that contains tips on maintenance setting up, troubleshooting and configuration. If you're using a mobile app to control the robot, you'll be able to see the available settings and set them by rooms, zones or floors. Some apps allow you to schedule specific cleaning sessions and even speak to the robot. Some of the most popular brands let you set virtual no-go zones and create customized cleaning schedules. The most effective robots let you save a cleaning schedule and return to it at any time you wish. Then, if you forget to finish the task the robot will start where it began.

Long-Lasting Batteries

Robot vacuums may not have the power as upright corded models or cordless stick vacuums, but their motors are energy efficient. This is why the top robot vacuums last for hours on a single charge. They also charge themselves and begin cleaning once they reach their base, without you needing to join them. In our tests, a battery's lifespan of 90 to 100 minutes is the ideal time for most households and will allow you to clean the entire apartment in one go.

The dust bin of a robot vacuum needs to be emptied every few cleans. This can be a challenging task, especially if have a large residence or a lot of pet hair on your floors. This is why a self-emptying robot vacuum can save you some major frustration. This feature lets the vacuum bot empty its own dustbin and clean and dry its filter after each use to ensure it is ready for the next cleaning session.

The majority of robot vacuums come with an adjustable or built-in water tank which allows them to clean hard surfaces. This is especially beneficial if you have heavily tiled floors or hardwood floors that require some extra attention between regular vacuuming sessions. Mopping robots do not typically have the same suction as traditional vacuums and are unable to get rid of liquid spills.

If you're looking for a machine that can mop and vacuum, you should consider an all-in-one combo robot like the Ecovacs Deebot T30S Combo or the Shark IQ XL. These two top picks are both of high-quality and provide excellent value. They both have a good level of suction and come with a big, self-emptying base station. They do not have the advanced navigation of our two top-rated robots, though, therefore they won't be able to tackle your entire house on one charge.

Eufy 11S is another option for a hands-free mopping robot. The inexpensive model doesn't come with an integrated or removable reservoir for water, but it does have an excellent suction level (2,500 Pascals or Pa) and can be used to mop, sweep and spot clean your floors. The 11S doesn't have the ability to vacuum furniture or stairs but it's a great choice for keeping your floors looking fresh in between mopping and vacuuming sessions.

Easy Maintenance

While robot vacuums can help you save time and effort, they require some daily maintenance. Certain models require less effort than others. For example, choose one with a self-emptying base to cut down on the number instances you need to empty the bin manually during cleaning runs. This feature is particularly helpful for pet owners who shed a lot or you are prone to forgetting to mop or sweep.

In addition to the basic features such as suction and a rotating brush, most of our top picks include extra features that can cut down the time needed to clean. Consider a multisurface cleaner that includes a mopping mat that is simple to put on and stays in the right place as well as a vacuum that makes use of LiDAR navigation to recognize dirt areas around your home so it can remove them completely.

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 using your voice. Certain models feature advanced software that can learn the layout of your home and help you navigate around obstacles. However, you will be required to pay for these features.

There are robot vacuums that fit any budget, ranging from the $100 ILife V3s Pro that can work on hardwood floors only, to the $1,600 Roborock Q5Max+, which can mop and vacuum both carpeting and hardwoods. As with most things, if you want more features you will pay more, but there are options to suit every budget.

We have the top robot vacuums for you, whether you require a basic bump and roll vac or one that has intelligent mapping that will wash your laundry while you're away. This Black and Decker X40 is equipped with a top-quality object-avoidance technology that allows it to move around furniture and toys and not get stuck. It's wireless-enabled and can work with Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can use your phone to schedule cleanings or remotely control the vacuum.

Read our guide on robotic hoovers vacuums as well as our guide to robotic mops for more tips. Make sure to look over our suggested shipping dates to ensure that your delivery for the holidays is on time.