The 6 Best Robot Vacuums in 2024

The Robot Vacuum Cleaners Market size is expected to grow from USD 4.80 billion in 2023 to USD 9.12 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 13.70% during the forecast period (2023-2028) according to research by Mordor Intelligence™

Want to keep your floors clean from shedding pet hair without lifting a finger? Robot vacuums are more than capable, and the good news is that there are great models at various prices. The models below can help lighten your home maintenance load.

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eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MAX - Best Overall

The Eufy is packed with high-end features, all at a price that's hard to pass up. And it's one of the most inexpensive models from Eufy. Its sleek, super-slim design (just under 3 inches tall) lets it slip beneath low ottomans and couches to nab even the most difficult-to-reach dirt. 

Eufy uses its BoostIQ Technology to automatically boost suction power when it detects an extra-strength cleaning job is required. Its large wheels help it climb over door ledges and quickly move from medium-pile carpet to hardwood or tile. With its advanced sensors, Eufy avoids tumbles off ledges or stairs and doesn't bump into your furniture. There's a remote control for spot-cleaning or cleaning just the edges of your rooms. Like many robot vacuums, Eufy knows to return to its charging base when the battery runs low to recharge before the next clean.

Pros:

1. Slim Design: The RoboVac 11S MAX has a low-profile design, allowing it to reach under furniture and navigate tight spaces easily for thorough cleaning.

2. BoostIQ Technology: Equipped with BoostIQ technology, it automatically increases suction power within 1.5 seconds when extra vacuuming strength is needed for carpets or tougher dirt.

3. Strong Suction: Offers strong suction power for efficient cleaning on both hard floors and low-pile carpets, effectively picking up dirt, debris, and pet hair.

4. Large Dustbin: Comes with a relatively large dustbin capacity, reducing the frequency of emptying during cleaning sessions.

5. Quiet Operation: Known for its relatively quiet operation, enabling cleaning without causing disturbance during use.

6. Affordability: Compared to many other robot vacuums, the RoboVac 11S MAX is often more budget-friendly, making it a cost-effective option for many users.

Cons:

1. No Smart Mapping: Lacks advanced mapping technology found in higher-end models, so it might follow a more random cleaning pattern instead of mapping out rooms.

2. Limited Scheduling Options: The scheduling options might be limited compared to more advanced models, offering fewer customization features for cleaning schedules.

3. No Wi-Fi Connectivity or App Control: It lacks Wi-Fi connectivity and app control, which means it can't be operated or scheduled remotely via a smartphone app.

4. No Mopping Function: Like many robot vacuums in its price range, the RoboVac 11S MAX is solely a vacuum and doesn’t have a mopping function.

5. Doesn't Handle High-Pile Carpets: While suitable for low-pile carpets, it might struggle on high-pile carpets or rugs due to its design limitations.

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Roborock S7 Robot Vacuum Cleaner

The Roborock S7 can vacuum and wet-mop your floors simultaneously with intelligent sonic technology that scrubs floors up to 3,000 times per minute. Households with carpets up to 4 millimeters high don’t have to remove the mopping pads to vacuum. This robot will automatically raise the pads to avoid wetting carpets as they are detected. The rubber main brush can float to meet uneven surfaces. This feature sets this robot vacuum apart from other models. 

Its Roborock app allows you to schedule automatic cleaning for different parts of your home, set boundaries for the robot around where you do and don’t want it to clean, and view the precise route your robot vacuum has taken while it cleans. Plus, if a room in your home needs extra work (like the kitchen after you make a meal), you can easily set up different cleaning intensities with the app.

Pros:

1. Ultrasonic Carpet Recognition: Utilizes ultrasonic carpet recognition to automatically lift the mop when it detects carpets, ensuring thorough vacuuming without mopping carpets.

2. Adjustable Water Flow: Offers adjustable water flow for the mop function, allowing users to control the amount of water dispensed based on floor types and cleaning needs.

3. Advanced Mapping and Navigation: Employs advanced LiDAR navigation for precise mapping and route planning, enabling efficient cleaning and avoiding obstacles.

4. Strong Suction Power: Equipped with strong suction capabilities for effective cleaning on different floor surfaces, including carpets and hard floors.

5. Long Battery Life: Provides a long battery life, allowing extended cleaning sessions without frequent recharging.

6. App-Controlled and Voice Assistant Compatible: Allows control via the Roborock app, with options for scheduling, room selection, and compatibility with voice assistants for hands-free operation.

Cons:

1. Price: The Roborock S7 Robot Vacuum Cleaner might be relatively higher in price compared to some other robot vacuums, which could be a downside for budget-conscious consumers.

2. Mopping Limitations: While the mopping function is effective, it might not entirely replace traditional mopping, especially for stubborn stains or deep cleaning.

3. Maintenance Needs: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the mop cloth and dustbin, is required, which adds to the upkeep.

4. Limited Accessories: Some users might find the lack of additional accessories or attachments for specific tasks as a limitation compared to other models.

5. Noise Level: While generally quieter than traditional vacuums, it might still produce noticeable noise during operation, which could be a concern for noise-sensitive users.

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Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision Robot Vacuum

With outstanding maneuverability, the Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision is one of the fastest vacuums on the market. The 500 ml dustbin, over two-hour runtime, and speedy, bump-free clean-up make this model an excellent choice for large homes. It has many modern features, like two front cameras transmitting a live image feed via the app to your smart device and incredible obstacle avoidance. The Scout RX2 gets deep into corners and edges and automatically boosts its suction power when it detects carpet.

You can control the robot’s actions from the Miele app and see which rooms it has and hasn’t cleaned. The cleaning tool for maintenance is lodged in the dustbin, so it can’t get lost or misplaced, but the dustbin needs to be manually emptied. For a high-end brand like Miele, this model is a fantastic price.

Pros:

1. Intelligent Navigation: Uses Smart Navigation technology with a combination of ceiling cameras and sensors for precise mapping and thorough cleaning, ensuring no spot is missed.

2. Allergy-Friendly Filtration: Equipped with a HEPA AirClean filter that captures and retains 99.9% of dust, allergens, and particles, making it suitable for allergy sufferers.

3. Cleaning Modes and Schedules: Offers various cleaning modes and scheduling options through the Miele Home app, allowing customizable cleaning routines.

4. Quiet Operation: Known for its relatively quiet operation compared to other robot vacuums, allowing for cleaning without disturbing household activities.

5. Gentle and Efficient on Different Surfaces: Adapts its suction power and brush height for different floor types, ensuring gentle yet effective cleaning on carpets and hard floors.

Cons:

1. Price: The Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision Robot Vacuum might be on the higher end in terms of price compared to some other robot vacuums available in the market.

2. Limited Connectivity: Some users may find that the connectivity options are limited compared to other models, with fewer integrations or smart home compatibility.

3. Small Dustbin Capacity: The dustbin capacity might be relatively smaller compared to other robot vacuums, requiring more frequent emptying, especially in larger homes.

4. Complexity of Interface: The interface and controls, particularly through the app, might have a steeper learning curve for users unfamiliar with Miele's systems.

5. Obstacle Recognition Limitations: While it navigates well, it might not detect small obstacles or furniture with dark surfaces, potentially causing minor collisions.

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Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum XL RV2502AE

Firstly, the design of the vacuum is sleek and modern, making it a great addition to my home. The suction power is strong and quickly picks up dirt and debris from my carpets and hardwood floors. I also appreciate the fact that it has a large dustbin, which means I can empty it less frequently.

The Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum XL has some great features that make it stand out from other robot vacuums. The AI mapping technology is impressive, as it helps the vacuum navigate obstacles and clean efficiently. I also love that it can be controlled with my smartphone and voice commands through Alexa.

It's a bit pricey, but worth the investment for the time and effort it saves in cleaning.

Pros:

1. AI Laser Vision: Utilizes advanced AI Laser Vision for precise navigation and efficient mapping of your home, enabling it to clean systematically and thoroughly.

2. Self-Emptying Base: Comes with a self-emptying base that allows the vacuum to empty its dustbin automatically, reducing the need for frequent manual emptying.

3. Voice Control and App Connectivity: Compatible with voice assistants and offers app connectivity, allowing remote control and scheduling through smartphones, adding convenience to cleaning routines.

4. Multi-Surface Cleaning: Equipped with strong suction and brush rolls designed for various floor types, ensuring effective cleaning on carpets, hardwood, and other surfaces.

5. Advanced Sensor Technology: Features sensors to avoid obstacles and prevent falls down stairs, enhancing safety during operation.

Cons:

1. Price: The Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum XL RV2502AE might be relatively higher in price compared to standard robot vacuums, which could be a drawback for some users.

2. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required, such as cleaning the brushes and filters, and replacing components like the dustbin bags in the self-emptying base, which adds to the upkeep.

3. Size and Weight: Being larger and heavier than some other robot vacuums may limit its access to tight spaces or under low furniture.

4. Limited Capacity: While the self-emptying base is convenient, its capacity might not be sufficient for larger homes or for extended cleaning sessions without frequent emptying.

5. Dependency on Connectivity: Some advanced features rely on a stable Wi-Fi connection and app usage, which might pose issues if there are connectivity problems or if users prefer manual controls.

Credit: Kogan

iRobot Roomba j7+ Pet Obstacle Avoiding Self-Empty Robot Vacuum

This standalone robot vacuum has some of the most innovative features I have ever seen in a vacuum. The built-in camera and machine learning technology allow the Roomba j7+ to recognize obstacles in its cleaning route and reroute itself around them. This robot vacuum can identify objects on the floor, including phone cords, power cables, headphones, pet waste, shoes, clothing, and towels. When it encounters possible barriers that aren't in its database, the Roomba j7+ photographs and asks for your advice on whether it should bypass those areas in the future.

I highly recommend the iRobot Roomba j7+ to anyone looking for a top-of-the-line standalone robot vacuum. Its ingenious features, machine learning technology, and ability to identify and avoid obstacles make it one of the most cutting-edge robot vacuums on the market.

Pros:

1. Pet-Specific Features: Equipped with specialized features like the Pet Owner Seal of Approval, the j7+ Pet focuses on effectively handling pet hair and debris, ensuring thorough cleaning.

2. Advanced Pet Intelligence: Utilizes pet intelligence to recognize and avoid pet waste, reducing the chances of getting stuck or spreading messes around the house.

3. Powerful Suction: Offers powerful suction capabilities to lift and remove pet hair, dander, and dirt from various floor surfaces, providing a cleaner environment for pet owners.

4. Smart Navigation: Uses advanced mapping and navigation technology, such as iRobot Genius 3.0, for efficient cleaning and navigation around obstacles and furniture.

5. HEPA Filtration: Features a high-efficiency filter that traps allergens and particles, making it beneficial for pet owners concerned about indoor air quality.

Cons:

1. Price: The Roomba j7+ Pet might be relatively more expensive compared to some other robot vacuums, which could be a downside for budget-conscious consumers.

2. Maintenance: Like other robot vacuums, it requires regular maintenance such as emptying the dustbin, cleaning the brushes, and replacing filters, which might be seen as an additional chore.

3. App Dependency: Some advanced features rely on a stable Wi-Fi connection and the use of the iRobot Home app, which might pose issues if connectivity is unstable or if users prefer manual controls.

4. Limited Mopping Capability: It focuses primarily on vacuuming and doesn’t have a mopping function, which might be a drawback for those looking for a multi-functional robot.

5. Learning Curve: For users new to smart devices or app-based controls, the initial setup and understanding of all the features might take some time and effort.

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Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni

The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni is one of the most expensive floor-cleaning robots on the market and the most advanced. It can vacuum and mop, empty its dustbin, wash and dry its own cloth, and refill its water tank, representing a significant step forward in robotic floor cleaning. It even becomes a roving home security camera with two-way audio. It features a built-in voice assistant called Yiko, allowing for voice control without a separate smart speaker.

This top-of-the-line model suits those with deep pockets willing to pay a premium for convenience. With long battery life, strong suction power, and AI-powered obstacle avoidance technology, the X2 Omni is an incredible option for large homes and those with pets.

Pros:

1. Multi-Functionality: The X2 Omni is a 2-in-1 vacuum and mop, providing both vacuuming and mopping capabilities in one device, making it efficient for floor cleaning.

2. Advanced Mapping and Navigation: It uses smart laser mapping and navigation technology to efficiently clean and navigate around obstacles, ensuring thorough cleaning of your home.

3. Customizable Cleaning: The app allows for room-specific cleaning, scheduling, and virtual boundaries, giving you control over where and when it cleans.

4. High Suction Power: It boasts powerful suction, making it effective at picking up dirt, debris, and pet hair from various floor surfaces.

5. Quiet Operation: Operates quietly compared to some other robot vacuums, enabling cleaning without causing disturbance.

Cons:

1. Mopping Limitations: While it offers mopping functionality, the water tank capacity might be limited for larger areas, requiring refills during extended cleaning sessions.

2. Cost: The X2 Omni might be relatively higher in price compared to basic robot vacuums, which could be a downside for those on a tight budget.

3. Wi-Fi Connectivity Dependency: Some advanced features are dependent on a stable Wi-Fi connection, and occasional connectivity issues might affect usability.

4. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is required, such as emptying the dustbin, cleaning brushes, and maintaining the mopping pad, which could be seen as an additional chore.

5. Learning Curve: Initial setup and understanding the app's features might take some time for users not familiar with smart devices or app-based controls.

FAQs

How do robot vacuums work?

Robot vacuums operate through a combination of navigation tools, such as sensors, lasers, and cameras, which enable them to move through your home autonomously. They effectively suck up pet hair, crumbs, and dirt from hard surfaces like wood, tile, laminate, as well as low-pile carpets and area rugs. High-end models often possess the capability to map and learn your living space, allowing you to specify cleaning in particular rooms or areas. Simultaneously, more affordable vacuum options include boundary strips that you can place on the floor to confine the robot to specific zones. Even budget models come equipped with sensors that prevent them from falling down stairs.

Many of these vacuums are equipped with smart features, enabling you to schedule cleaning sessions using companion apps. Some even sync with voice-activated digital assistants like Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant, providing a genuinely hands-free experience. All robot vacuums automatically return to their charging stations to recharge, and some can pause a cleaning session, recharge, and resume cleaning from where they left off. For those with pets, it's advisable to consider a model with a rubber brush roller, as it tends to be more effective at removing pet hair and lint compared to bristle brush rollers.

How to clean a robot vacuum

Robot vacuums typically require minimal maintenance, yet each model has unique care and upkeep needs. To ensure your robot operates at its best, consider the following maintenance tips:

Brush Care: Regularly inspect and remove any entangled hair or debris from the brushes to maintain their efficiency.

Dust Bin Maintenance: After each cleaning session, empty the dust bin on the robot, and if the manufacturer recommends it, rinse it to keep it clean and odor-free.

Sensor and Camera Cleaning: Wipe the sensors or cameras on the robot to ensure they have a clear view of your home, aiding in navigation for the next cleaning session.

For robots equipped with mopping capabilities:

Mopping Pad Maintenance: Removing and cleaning the mopping pads is crucial, allowing them to dry thoroughly before reattaching them to the robot.

By adhering to these simple maintenance practices, you can prolong the life of your robot vacuum and ensure it continues to operate effectively.

How long do robot vacuums last?

With proper care and maintenance, robot vacuums can have a lifespan comparable to that of full-size vacuums. This entails regular upkeep, such as cleaning the rotating brushes to prevent hair entanglement, replacing worn parts as necessary, and adhering to the manufacturer's usage guidelines.

Following these practices ensures that your robot vacuum will continue to assist in keeping your home clean for many years. Robot vacuum manufacturers have shared anecdotes of customers who have owned the same unit for nearly a decade, having replaced components like wheels, rotating brushes, and batteries to maintain longevity.

What makes a good robot vacuum and mop combo in 2024?

You want a robot vacuum and mop that’s a real all-star at both jobs. Think strong suction for vacuuming and efficient mopping abilities. Features like smart navigation and good battery life make for a winner.

How do you test robot vacuums to determine the best overall in 2024?

Testing robot vacs is like putting them through a cleaning Olympics! We check how they handle different surfaces, how smart mapping your home works, how much they can pick up, and what nifty features they offer. The best overall champ ticks off most of these boxes with finesse, keeping your home cleaner.

Which robot vacuums of 2024 are best for pet hair?

Ah, the pet hair heroes! The best robot vacuums for pet hair are those equipped with special brushes and super suction power. We have gone into detail in this post.

Do robot vacuum and mop combos effectively clean up pet hair?

Absolutely! These combos are like the dream team for your hard floors and carpet. They vacuum up pet hair like champs and then go on to mop away any remaining mess. Your floors will thank you, and so will your furry pals!

What's the best robot vacuum you can buy on a budget in 2024?

Want to find a budget-friendly robot vacuum? Look for one that doesn’t break the bank but still gives you great cleaning and cool features. There are some hidden gems out there that won’t empty your wallet.

Are there any recommendations for the best cheap robot vacuums of 2024?

Oh yeah! Some cheap robot vacuums surprise you with how good they are. Look for ones from trusted brands that offer a good mix of quality and affordability. They might be cheap in price, but they’re rich in cleaning skills.