How to Choose the Best Robot Vacuum Cleaner
A robot vacuum can help you save time and effort when it comes to regular touch-ups. The best models do a great job at removing dust and other small particles and allow you to designate no-go zones in pets or power cords.
The more expensive models even clean your floors, though they aren't able to climb stairs. Look for models that have intelligent mapping, real-time hazard avoidance and large self-emptying bins.
Best Overall
The best robots we tested were reliable, user-friendly and able to cope with daily debris. You'll need a robot that has decent carpet-picking capability and the ability to handle stairs. And, if you're looking to add more features, you might be interested in a robot with smart mapping technology or an application that allows you to control the robot remotely.
Camryn Rabideau, a contributing shopping writer for PEOPLE and a reviewer of products who has tested several robotic vacuums, has been credited with testing numerous robot vacuums. She prefers the robovacs with the most features, such as those with self-emptying bins and charging stations that automatically empty and fill the water tanks used to mop robotic vacuums. She also enjoys robots that recognize landmarks such as furniture legs and power cables so that they don't fall when climbing stairs.
This robot from Black and Decker has a lower score for navigation and less object-avoidance tech than the top-rated models. It comes with a huge non-refillable dustbin as well as an extended battery. Additionally, it has the ability to schedule cleaning sessions and then return to the spot where it last stopped which makes it easier to tackle larger areas. This model is also a good choice for pet owners because it is able to identify and eliminate hair tangled and fallen food particles.
In our tests, we discovered that the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra combined a LIDAR (light) sensor which can identify obstacles and map rooms by using a structured-light sensor to identify objects and detect edges. It is able to avoid stairs, liquid droplets, and furniture legs with this combination. It is also able to save up to four floor plans for future use. It is also able to stop the cleaning process at any moment and return to where it stopped, so you can do chores while the robot does its work. The app provides the 3D image of your home, complete with room labels as well as advanced cleaning options.
While this robot can't clean as well as our top-rated models, it excels in picking up fine debris like baking soda and sand as well as larger objects, like orzo pasta and metal screws. The only drawback is that it's not able to mop, and has a slightly less efficient navigation system.
Best for Carpet
If you have carpeting, pick an automatic vacuum that scores high for carpet and rug ability to maneuver and pick up. A lot of models are adept at picking up dust in low-pile rugs. Some do a decently job of picking up heavier debris like orzo pasta and screws made of metal. They don't pick-up fine particles like an upright canister, and may miss dirt that is close to baseboards or thresholds.
For homes with carpets, a 2-in-1 robot mop/vacuum is the best choice. You can exchange a cleaning bin for a moist mopping mat. The Roborock Q Revo, for example, vacuums and wet mop with circular pads that spin at a speed of 200 rotations per minute. It is able to detect and lift its pads when it comes in contact with carpet, which prevents the flooring from getting wet. You don't need to remove them or replace them every time. The Q Revo is also better than other robot vacuum/mops at keeping away from obstacles, getting close to rugs and thresholds and staying clear of obstacles.
The iRobot Roomba Combo i5 is another solid option. It performed well in our tests, and you can schedule it to clean your home while you are away. It can be set to mop only, and we liked its excellent navigation on bare floors and rugs, as well as its ability to climb over and up onto furniture. The Combo i5 also has a very long runtime and great path planning for such a small device.
If you want a more high-tech model, consider the Shark AI Ultra 2-in-1 Self-Empty Robot Vacuum &