This piece was initially featured on Mashable aimed at a US readership and has been modified for an audience in the UK.
If your budget allows, investing in a robot vacuum is a wise decision. Let’s be honest: do you take pleasure in tidying up your home? Probably not. Do you enjoy kicking back and relaxing? Definitely. In that case, a robot vacuum might be just what you need to simplify your life.
However, if you’re not particularly tech-savvy, selecting the perfect robot vacuum can be quite daunting. With a multitude of models available, each offering variations of similar features, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Additionally, you may have some important questions: Are robot vacuums actually worth the expenditure? How do they function? And which brand stands out as the best?
If all of this has left you feeling puzzled, don’t fret — we’ve taken care of the hard part for you. After extensive research, we’ve compiled a concise guide to robot vacuums, along with our top recommendations for the best models currently available. So, sit back, unwind, and let us assist you in making a decision.
Are robot vacuums worth the investment?
There’s a certain satisfaction in the precise operation of a traditional upright vacuum. However, if cleaning feels more like a burden than a delight, a robot vacuum can alleviate a significant chore from your routine. Whether a robot vacuum is a worthwhile expenditure depends on one crucial element: quality. A low-cost, poorly made robot vacuum that spreads dirt around, crashes into furniture, or gets ensnared on carpets undermines the entire purpose. The main attraction of a robot vacuum is its convenience, so it’s worth investing a bit more to acquire one that genuinely improves your life.
What features should you consider when choosing a robot vacuum?
Here are the essential features to look for when selecting a robot vacuum:
App control — Models with WiFi connectivity can link to a smartphone application, enabling you to schedule cleaning sessions and modify settings. If you already use Alexa or Google Assistant for smart home tasks, seek a model that integrates voice control for effortless management.
Battery life — Larger dwellings necessitate prolonged cleaning times, making battery life vital. The models we’ve showcased below provide run times from 115 to 240 minutes.
Docking station — Numerous robot vacuums include a docking station that fulfills several functions. The vacuum will automatically return to the dock for recharging, and some models even empty their dustbins into the dock for further convenience.
Floor types and mopping — Depending on the flooring in your home, look for a model capable of managing both carpets and hard surfaces. Some models can even traverse high-pile rugs or come equipped with mopping capabilities for hard floors.
Low-profile design — Concerned about dust bunnies hiding under your sofa? A robot vacuum that stands three inches tall or less should be able to reach under most low-profile furniture.
Navigation and mapping — All robot vacuums are equipped with basic sensors and drop detection, but advanced models use smart mapping to navigate intricate layouts and retain your home’s floor plan, making them ideal for spaces with multiple rooms or limited areas.
Pet hair cleaning — For pet owners, it’s wise to choose models with anti-tangle roller brushes, which are designed to manage fur more effectively without getting clogged.
Suction power — A vacuum’s performance is contingent on its suction power, measured in Pascals (Pa). The products listed here range from 2,500 to 8,000 Pa, with greater suction power being more effective for heavier debris and embedded pet hair.
Keep these features in mind as you evaluate various models to discover the one that best meets your requirements.
Which robot vacuum is the top choice?
There isn’t a universally applicable answer to this inquiry. The ideal robot vacuum for a person with several dogs and wall-to-wall carpeting might