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Best Robotic Vacuums Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Standout Picks
Criteria Used for Evaluation
Effectiveness
As we touched on above the brush can help lift dirt from hard surfaces as well as out of the fibers of the carpet. From there they will guide the dirt to the suction to be picked up. There are two different types of brushes that can be found on this type of cleaning unit. One option is the brush roll, some are wider than others, but they all have the same end goal. These are the types that will lift the dirt to guide it along in the process. The other type of brush is found on the sides of the machine and creates a sweeping effect. They are known for guiding the dirt from the sides into the line of suction. Some prefer one type over the other but it is best to have a brush on the machine.
Battery Life
The battery will control the amount of suction, to a point, and the length of time the machine will run for. Currently, there are two types of batteries available to choose from. One of them is the Li-Ion battery, these are said to allow for longer running times. As a ballpark figure, the typical amount of power created from these batteries will keep running your system for 120 to 150 minutes. Of course, that time will vary according to the sensors and motor involved that will also draw power from the battery.
The other option, which tends to be cheaper, is the Ni-Mh battery. This type of battery will run a machine for less time than their counterpart. One last figure to consider when it comes to the battery is the length of time it takes to charge. A good system will have the ability to charge in as little as 3 hours.
Features
How intelligent the robot is will depend on the type of sensors that are included. Some find this to be a rather difficult decision to make. As many consumers feel overwhelmed by the terminology that comes with this type of technology. There are those that will use sensors to avoid collisions. These are infrared sensors, they allow the machine to turn upon sensing an obstruction. Then there are the models that used more complicated sensors to map out your home. This ability to map gives them a course for cleaning.
Durability
Technology can be a tricky thing to deal with, in some cases models will change quickly making yours obsolete at a quick rate. When it comes to repairing some of the components it can become slightly pricey, forcing you to set the item aside until the repairs can be made. Luckily for you, most manufacturers will offer at least a two-year warranty on their products. Just be sure to read through the paperwork for these as so that you understand what they are offering. For keeping up to date, some manufacturers will offer software upgrades. These upgrades will allow you to be sure that you have the more current software available to you.
Sound Quality
The amount of noise the machine makes can be an important factor as well. The point of this type of cleaning aid is so that you can focus on other tasks that need your attention. As a good rule of thumb, the larger the motor the more noise the machine will make. You can look for a machine with a smaller motor that has been isolated in its own chamber. These two factors together will allow for less noise when in use.
10 Best Robotic Vacuums
1. Eufy
The first unit on the list brings one that will allow you to clean with no worries. A low profile will allow the unit to easily access areas that your upright model just can't get to.
Boundaries
With the purchase of this unit will come a set of strips for you to create a boundary line to contain the unit where you will need it. For those with children, this feature can come in handy. You can block the unit from entering the room avoiding any small items that could cause damage to the unit.
Low Profile
This has a lower height profile which is great for cleaning underneath your furniture. As long as your couch or chair doesn't sit right on the ground getting under it will not be a problem with this one.
Cost and Value
Here is a unit that will potentially be an asset to your cleaning arsenal. This can be done while remaining in your budget as the cost for this is not that high. You can keep the unit within the lines with the strips that are included for creating boundaries.
2. iRobot 980
This is a prime example of a unit that will allow you to relax while it does all the work. The technology used will allow the unit to remain on the path in the correct direction. The battery provides the machine with ample time to get the job complete.
Navigating
The technology and sensors used in the unit will allow it to memorize the route it needs to take to keep your floors clean. The advantage to this is that the unit will never lose its place. Additional sensors will allow the unit to detect when stairs are present, avoiding an accident that could become detrimental to the unit.
Battery Life
The battery used in the unit will allow the system to clean for a staggering 75 minutes at a time. In the event that is not long enough, as sometimes larger homes will require more time. The unit will make its way back to the docking station for an energy refresher. Then it will carry on where it left off to complete the job.
Cost and Value
The added technology to this unit will add to the cost of the unit as well. With this option, you get a hassle-free experience. As the unit basically takes care of itself.
3. Shark
Next up is an option that knows how to clean. You will notice several brushes on the side as well as a roll included for gathering up the dirt and hair. As far as maintaining the unit goes, this one has a simple plan for you.
Brushes
Underneath you will find a brush roll that aids in lifting the hair and dirt into the path of the suction. Also included are dual brushes along the side to direct the dirt from the edges to where it needs to go.
Maintaining
Some units can be a hassle when it comes to the upkeep. Having a bin that is difficult to access creates a larger mess than you started with. This one allows you access to the bin from the side. Simply slide it out to empty the contents. The self-grooming system will ensure that there is no need to untangle the brush roll.
Cost and Value
The unit provides you with the technology to control it from anywhere. While giving you the opportunity to either relax or turn your attention to other tasks that need to be done.
4. Ecovacs
Here is an option for those of you that have hard surfaces throughout your home. With different cleaning levels, you can be sure that the debris will be quickly cleared out of the way.
Cleaning Power
Many choose an option such as this for the ability to choose the level of cleaning the unit does. For those times when things get behind you can crank this up to maximum cleaning, allowing the machine to draw more power to create better suction abilities.
Surfaces
Hard surfaces at times can be delicate to deal with oftentimes scratching. When you don't have time to sweep them you need a place to turn. That is where this unit can step in for you, as the design suits hard flooring better. Although it has been known to work well on lower profile carpeting as well.
Cost and Value
Sweeping your floors on a daily basis can be time-consuming and daunting. With a unit like this, you can free up some time to do other things. Here is an option that will allow you to change the level at which the unit will perform as well.
5. iLife
Most of the time people search for options that are better for cleaning pet hair. As we all know that can seem like mission impossible to keep up with. This unit can be a game changer for keeping up with the cleaning schedule.
Designed for Pet Hair
Designed with the suction power to pick up pet hair when you simply don't have the time. Other models leave a trail in their wake, but with this unit, they seem to have a solution to that problem.
Controlled by Remote
This selection is controlled by a remote that comes with it. You use that remote to create a schedule that is convenient for you when it comes to cleaning.
Cost and Value
This is one of the more affordable options we have look at thus far. Created to clear the hair for pet owners everywhere, this model can be valuable for saving you time.
6. bObsweep
This is the first selection we have taken a look at that offers more than suction for cleaning an area. It is simple to use the unit so you get everything you need in one package.
5-In-1
With this selection, you get more than just suction to aid you with your cleaning tasks. This unit can juggle 5 activities at once it vacuums, sweeps, mops, and has the power to filter the air.
Easy to Use
On the top of the unit lie the touchscreen buttons used to operate the machine. It truly is power at your fingertips. Adding to the easy to use process is the dustbin. This one is easy to access and can be washed free of dust. Allowing you the ability to breathe cleaner air.
Cost and Value
This selection offers you more bang for your buck in the cleaning department. With the ability to perform five different functions, you get cleaner floors than ever before.
7. Pure Clean
Next is an option that can travel over any surface within your home. You can set this up to run when the time is right for you. With the one-touch technology, you will be up and running in little time at all.
All Surfaces
There are versions on the market that are created for use on either carpet or hard surfaces. With this one, you get to clean a little of everything. As this one can scoot across the carpet or travel freely over hard surfaces.
One-Touch
Powering the system up is a breeze. Some versions will hold a more complicated process to start the system. Not the case with this unit, as they have chosen to go with the touch of a button to power the system up.
Cost and Value
When looking to test the waters with new technology, some are looking for an option that won't empty their wallet. This model comes at an affordable price and is great for those just starting out.
8. Tesvor
The next selection brings us to one that has more to offer in the filtering department. With a couple of options to control the unit, this will run whether you are home or not.
Filtering
With this technology, an often overlooked, yet important, aspect of the design is the filtration. Most manufacturers can't seem to find the room to improve in that department. With this model, you get a triple layer filtration system. Ensuring the dust gets trapped in the filter and not blown through the vents.
Controlling
For some the advances in technology are a scary leap to take, here is an option that can deliver the best of both worlds. For those who enjoy the convenience of modern technology, you can use the app available to control the unit. When technology feels a little strange, use the included remote to set your schedule.
Cost and Value
Here is another simple model that will allow you the convenience of hands-off cleaning. You get to choose how you control the device, either with your phone or by remote. All at a fraction of the cost of some of the fancier versions.
9. Proscenic
Next is a version that will provide you with more than one cleaning service. Another neat feature is the ability to control this unit with your voice. Finally, someone who listens when you need something cleaned.
Cleaning
Another great option for not only keeping the dirt off the floor but mopping it as well. The tank for the water is controlled electronically. This allows you to set the amount of water that will be used to clean the floor.
Voice Controlled
Here is a unit that can be paired with Alexa for voice control. Simply download the app and you can direct the unit just by speaking to it. What could be better than something that won't argue about having to do chores?
Cost and Value
The cost of this selection will be offset by the cleaning ability alone. There are not many options out there that will not only remove dirt but will wash the floors as well.
10. Roborock
This one can use its sensors to map out the area you want it to clean. This allows the unit to always know where it is. Good for all surfaces, there are even settings to change the power of the suction.
Sensors
This version seems to have a sensor for everything. There are the ones used to map the room so the unit knows where to travel. Then the sensors that detect obstructions to prevent accidental collisions. Let's not forget the sensor that can detect the fact that there are stairs. These keep the unit from taking a tumble that can ruin the machine.
Settings
There are settings for three different modes of cleaning. When the house is quiet there is a quiet mode to match the noise level of the house. You can set it to mop on your hard surfaces. There is even a setting that will allow the unit to detect the fact that it is cruising across the carpet. Then it will kick up the suction to aid in the cleaning process.
Cost and Value
You will notice that this option has a higher price tag than some of the others. The amount of cleaning potential will cover the cost when the product is used. The sensors will keep the unit safe from damage leading to minimal repairs.
