Best Robot Vacuums: A Comprehensive Guide

In the fast-paced world of home cleaning technology, robot vacuums have made quite a buzz. These little autonomous machines have come a long way since the days of their inception. In this article, we will explore the top 5 robot vacuums of 2023, thoroughly tested and recommended by cleaning professionals. Whether you’re tech-savvy or a novice, there’s a robot vacuum here for you.

---

Table of Contents

1. iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum
2. Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MAX
3. Roborock S7 Robot Vacuum Cleaner
4. Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision Robot Vacuum
5. Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum XL RV2502AE
6. How We Test Robot Vacuums
7. What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Robot Vacuum
8. How Do Robot Vacuums Work?
9. How to Clean a Robot Vacuum
10. Are Robot Vacuums Worth It?
11. How Long Do Robot Vacuums Last?

---

1. iRobot Roomba s9+ Robot Vacuum

Best Overall Robot Vacuum

• Price: $599 at Amazon, $890 at Walmart, $999 at Wayfair
• Dust Bin Capacity: 400 ml (base holds up to 60 days of dust)
• Battery Runtime: 75 mins.
• Key Features: Self-emptying, smart mapping, spot cleaning, links to Braava jet robot mop, charge and continue cleaning, auto boost carpet cleaning

Pros:

• Beat all other tested robots for spot cleaning and hard floor cleaning.
• No pet fur got trapped in the roller brushes.

Cons:

• Earned a one-star rating from Quiet Mark for being loud.

iRobot Roomba s9+ is a brand that has been leading the robot vacuum market for years, and the s9+ is no exception. It excelled in hard floor cleaning tests, picking up an impressive 99% of dry debris, including oats, sand, baking soda, nuts, and screws. In fact, it performed so well that the only test where it earned less than a 99% pickup rate was in carpet pickup tests, where the average pickup of all vacuums was just 73%.

While it follows a random cleaning pattern, taking a bit longer to clean in a straight line compared to some other models, it cleaned more thoroughly than any other robot. Its spot-cleaning function worked faster too. Notably, it automatically increases suction when it detects carpet, ensuring a thorough clean.

One standout feature is the self-emptying dirt disposal system, which automatically transfers collected dirt to a sealed, bag-lined dustbin in the charging base. This means less maintenance for you. Additionally, the self-cleaning roller brushes rarely require any attention, making it a great choice for pet owners as they don’t clog with pet hair.

The accompanying app is user-friendly and offers features like mapping your home as it cleans, setting cleaning schedules, and even voice command capabilities. This Roomba is indeed smart and can recognize commands like “Clean under the dining room table.”

However, it’s worth noting that iRobot is continuously updating its lineup, so newer models may soon replace this one. Nevertheless, if you find it on sale, it’s still a steal considering its features.

2. Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MAX

Best Value Robot Vacuum

• Price: $250 at Amazon
• Dust Bin Capacity: 600 ml
• Battery Run Time: 100 mins.
• Key Features: Auto-increase suction on carpet, advanced sensors, remote control for spot-cleaning

Pros:

• Slim design gets under low furniture.
• Multiple options for deep or regular cleaning.

Cons:

• Random cleaning pattern.

Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MAX offers great value for money. It boasts a sleek, super-slim design that can easily slip under low furniture. While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, it performs impressively well for its price range.

Eufy’s BoostIQ Technology automatically increases suction power when it detects tougher cleaning tasks. It can smoothly transition between different floor types and features advanced sensors to avoid obstacles and falls. The remote control allows for spot-cleaning or cleaning along room edges.

If you’re on a budget but still want a robot vacuum that can get the job done, the Eufy 11S MAX is a reliable choice. Eufy is known for its consistently good performance across its vacuum lineup.

3. Roborock S7 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Best Two-in-One Robot Vacuum and Mop

• Price: $360 at Amazon
• Dust Bin Capacity: 470 ml
• Battery Runtime: 180 mins.
• Key Features: Sonic floor scrubbing, auto carpet detection, spot cleaning, zone cleaning

Pros:

• Washable filter.
• Mopping pads lift when carpet is detected.

Cons:

• Some users reported difficulty in picking up pet hair on carpet.

The Roborock S7 is a versatile machine that not only vacuums but also mops your floors simultaneously. Its innovative sonic technology scrubs floors up to 3,000 times per minute, ensuring a deep clean. Notably, it can detect carpets and automatically lift the mop pads to avoid wetting them, a feature that sets it apart from others.

This robot vacuum’s rubber main brush can float to meet uneven surfaces, making it more effective in cleaning different floor types. It’s easy to set up and provides an efficient cleaning experience. However, it requires a bit more space for proper docking.

The accompanying app offers extensive control, allowing you to schedule cleanings, set boundaries, and customize cleaning intensities. Users have praised the Roborock app for its simplicity and seamless connection.

4. Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision Robot Vacuum

Best Robot Vacuum for Large Houses

• Price: $519 at Amazon
• Dust Bin Capacity: 500 ml
• Battery Runtime: 120 mins.
• Key Features: 3D object detection, auto boost carpet cleaning, spot cleaning, remote camera viewing

Pros:

• Quiet operation.
• Excellent navigation and obstacle detection.

Cons:

• A bit expensive.

The Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision is designed for larger homes with its extended battery life and efficient cleaning patterns. It can clean for up to 120 minutes on a single charge, making it suitable for spacious areas.

What sets this robot vacuum apart is its 3D object detection, which helps it avoid obstacles more effectively. It also offers a unique feature: a remote camera that lets you see what’s happening at home while it cleans. This can be particularly useful for pet owners or parents wanting to check in on their pets or children.

Although it comes with a higher price tag, the Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision is a reliable choice for those looking for a robot vacuum that can handle extensive cleaning tasks while providing added convenience through its camera feature.

5. Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum XL RV2502AE

Best Robot Vacuum for Pet Owners

• Price: $499 at Amazon
• Dust Bin Capacity: 600 ml
• Battery Runtime: 90 mins.
• Key Features: Advanced AI navigation, self-cleaning brushroll, HEPA filter, smart mapping, self-emptying base

Pros:

• Powerful suction.
• Self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap.

Cons:

• Shorter battery life compared to some competitors.

The Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum XL RV2502AE is tailored for pet owners. Its self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer for those dealing with pet hair. It can capture long strands of hair without clogging, and the included HEPA filter traps allergens.

This robot vacuum employs advanced AI navigation for efficient cleaning and can map your home, making it easy to set cleaning boundaries. The self-emptying base ensures you don’t have to worry about emptying the dustbin frequently.

While its battery life is on the shorter side compared to some competitors, it’s a reliable choice for pet owners who prioritize efficient cleaning.

---

How We Test Robot Vacuums

To determine the best robot vacuums of 2023, we conducted rigorous tests across a range of criteria, including:

1. Cleaning Performance: We tested each vacuum on a variety of surfaces, including hardwood floors, carpets, and tile, to evaluate its ability to pick up dirt, dust, and debris.
2. Battery Life: We measured how long each vacuum could clean on a single charge and assessed its ability to return to the charging base when the battery was low.
3. Navigation: We evaluated the robot vacuums’ ability to navigate around obstacles, avoid falling down stairs, and find their way back to the charging dock.
4. Smart Features: We assessed the usability and functionality of the accompanying mobile apps, voice control options, and other smart features.
5. Ease of Maintenance: We examined how easy it was to clean and maintain each robot vacuum, including emptying the dustbin and cleaning the brushes.
6. Value for Money: We considered the overall value of each vacuum based on its performance and features relative to its price.

---

What to Look for When Shopping for the Best Robot Vacuum

When shopping for a robot vacuum, consider the following factors:

1. Cleaning Performance: Look for a vacuum that performs well on the types of surfaces you have in your home, whether it’s hardwood floors, carpets, or a combination of both.
2. Battery Life: Longer battery life allows the robot vacuum to clean more area on a single charge. Some models also have the ability to return to the charging dock and resume cleaning.
3. Navigation and Sensors: Effective navigation and obstacle detection are crucial for efficient and safe cleaning.
4. Smart Features: Consider whether the vacuum offers smartphone control, voice commands, or integration with smart home platforms like Alexa or Google Assistant.
5. Dust Bin Capacity: A larger dustbin reduces the frequency of emptying it during cleaning sessions.
6. Noise Level: If noise is a concern, look for quieter models, especially if you plan to use the vacuum while you’re at home.
7. Price: Robot vacuums come in a wide price range, so choose one that fits your budget while meeting your cleaning needs.

---

How Do Robot Vacuums Work?

Robot vacuums use a combination of sensors, brushes, and suction to clean your floors. Here’s a simplified overview of how they work:

1. Sensors: Robot vacuums are equipped with various sensors that detect obstacles, cliffs (to avoid falling down stairs), and the vacuum’s current position within your home.
2. Brushes: Most robot vacuums have rotating brushes or rollers that sweep dirt and debris from the floor into the path of the vacuum.
3. Suction: A powerful motor creates suction to pull in the dirt and debris into the vacuum’s dustbin.
4. Navigation: Robot vacuums use their sensors and algorithms to navigate around your home, typically following a random or systematic cleaning pattern.
5. Charging Dock: When the battery is low or after completing a cleaning cycle, the robot vacuum automatically returns to its charging dock.
6. Smart Features: Many robot vacuums can be controlled and scheduled via a smartphone app or voice commands, and some even have mapping capabilities to create efficient cleaning routes.

---

How to Clean a Robot Vacuum

Regular maintenance is essential to keep your robot vacuum performing at its best. Here’s how to clean it:

1. Empty the Dustbin: After each cleaning cycle, empty the dustbin to prevent clogs and maintain suction.
2. Clean the Brushes: Remove any hair or debris tangled in the brushes or rollers. Some robot vacuums have self-cleaning brushes.
3. Check the Filter: If your vacuum has a filter, check and clean or replace it as needed to maintain airflow.
4. Clean the Sensors: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the sensors to ensure accurate navigation.
5. Inspect Wheels and Rollers: Check the wheels and rollers for obstructions and clean them if necessary.
6. Wipe Down the Exterior: Clean the robot vacuum’s exterior with a damp cloth to remove dust and smudges.
7. Empty the Charging Base: If your vacuum has a self-emptying base, empty it periodically.

Always refer to your robot vacuum’s user manual for specific maintenance instructions.

---

Are Robot Vacuums Worth It?

Robot vacuums can be a valuable addition to your home, depending on your needs and lifestyle. Here are some reasons why they can be worth it:

1. Time-Saving: Robot vacuums can autonomously clean your floors, freeing up your time for other tasks.
2. Consistency: They can clean your home regularly, ensuring that your floors stay cleaner for longer.
3. Accessibility: Robot vacuums can reach under furniture and into tight spaces that may be difficult to clean with a traditional vacuum.
4. Smart Features: Many robot vacuums offer smart features like scheduling, remote control, and voice commands, enhancing convenience.
5. Allergy and Pet-Friendly: Models with HEPA filters are effective at trapping allergens and pet hair, improving indoor air quality.

However, whether a robot vacuum is worth it depends on factors like your budget, the size and layout of your home, and your cleaning