Are you overwhelmed by vacuuming? Do you find yourself vacuuming just to vacuum again in a few minutes once the floor becomes dirty once again? Is vacuuming physically difficult? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these questions, then a robot vacuum might be a good choice for you.
It can be challenging to select the right model when making such an important purchase– different robot vacuums have different features for different families. That’s why we put together a list of the best robot vacuums on the market, complete with pros and cons to help you choose the right robot vacuum for your home. Keep reading to find your perfect match.
Shark AV752 ION Robot Vacuum
Best Overall
Can Handle Heavy-Duty Household Usage
This robot vacuum cleaner can handle almost any surface, with three interchangeable brush types to efficiently work on whatever flooring you throw at it. It can be controlled manually, by app, or even by voice via Alexa or Siri. With a runtime of 120 minutes, it can clean for two hours before needing a charge.
Pros:
- Climbs over barriers
- Seamless transition between rooms
- Can handle very dirty floors
Cons:
- Need to block off areas you don’t want it in
- App can have issues connecting with the vacuum
iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO (3550) Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum
Runner-Up
Excellent Suction Performance
This robot vacuum cleaner has powerful suction and cleans floors really well in comparison to competitors. It can map your house, detect the most important spots to focus on, and even make suggestions to help keep your floors clean.
Pros:
- Focuses on the dirtiest spots of your floor
- Works in neat rows, ensuring it covers the entire area
- Suggests when to clean rooms
- Self-emptying
Cons:
- Harsh on fancy rugs
- Exclusively depends on the app
- Too large to fit under furniture
Lefant M210 Robot Vacuum Cleaner
Great Multi-tasker
Versatile, Convenient Vacuum
This robot vacuum cleaner boasts a small, light design for vacuuming under beds, couches, etc. while still packing a powerful punch as far as suction. Optional mopping attachments can enable your vacuum to work even harder for your home. Four cleaning modes and app-based control help customize your vacuum to your home’s needs.
Pros:
- Great for pet hair
- Sensors help avoid getting your vacuum stuck
- Anti-drop sensors keep your vacuum safe around stairs
- Quiet
Cons:
- Requires frequent filter changes
- Must have 2.4g instead of 5g wi-fi to connect the app
ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Vacuum
Honorable Mention
Sturdy Design Helps Maintain Hardwood, Tile, and Laminate
This robot vacuum is great for cleaning hardwood, tile, laminate, and other hard flooring. Although it has trouble navigating over lips between rooms, etc., it will help keep your hard flooring clean.
Pros:
- Long battery life
- Remote control and manual operation
- Works well on hard flooring
Cons:
- Not thorough on carpets
- Difficulty moving between rooms
eufy by Anker, BoostIQ RoboVac 11s (Slim) Robot Vacuum Cleaner
Part of the Family
Sleek Robot Vacuum
This robot vacuum works well on multiple flooring types, fitting under furniture for a thorough clean. Its sleek design works with any decor, and its functionality keeps your home clean.
Pros:
- Small enough to clean under furniture
- Good battery life
- User-friendly, clearly labeled instructions
- Docks itself before dying
Cons:
- Must empty after each use
- Doesn’t map out the home
FAQs
Does a robot vacuum need wi-fi?
Although some models require wi-fi, most models do have manual clean options. Just press a button and go! Make sure to check your specific model for wi-fi requirements. Many models have wi-fi options, but also the ability to clean without it.
Do robot vacuums help with pet hair?
Yes! But some models pick up pet hair better than others. Check your model for good suction abilities. A good, heavy brush option will also help pick up pesky pet hair.
How long do robot vacuums last?
Robot vacuums can go roughly an hour to three hours between charges, although the exact length varies based on the model. The vacuum itself should be replaced every four-six years, although some can go up to eight years before requiring replacement.
Buying Guide
Because robot vacuums are an investment, it is important to enter the buying process fully informed and ready to make the right purchase for you. Although most models do roughly the same thing, there are a few characteristics you will want to research before making your decision.
Here are some qualities to look at in your robot vacuum:
- Some robot vacuums perform better on certain flooring types than others. It is important to consider what type of flooring is in your home: hardwood, carpet, or a mix of both. Also, consider if you purely want vacuuming or if mopping is an important additional feature.
- Robot vacuums have varying grades of technological aptitude. If you want to just press a button and be done, consider getting a standard, manual-operated robot vacuum. On the other hand, if you prefer to explore cool features, consider getting a vacuum that coordinates with an app.
- Different models have different battery lives. For example, it can be helpful to invest in longer battery life can be helpful if you have a large home to vacuum, as more square footage takes longer to clean– nobody wants to recharge an appliance in the middle of a job.
