**UPDATED: Dec. 14, 2024, 4:30 a.m. EST**
*I have recently revised my compilation of the top three Shark robot vacuums to feature the newest and most cutting-edge model: the PowerDetect NeverTouch Pro. This remarkable addition is also under consideration for this list and will be incorporated in the upcoming weeks if it qualifies.*
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When it comes to maintaining clean floors, the majority of [robot vacuums](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-robot-vacuums) can effortlessly manage [tile](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-robot-vacuums-for-tile-floors) or [hardwood](https://mashable.com/roundup/best-robot-vacuums-for-hardwood-floors) surfaces, efficiently collecting hair and crumbs like a specialist. Nonetheless, tackling carpets presents a distinct challenge. To efficiently extract debris lodged in carpet fibers, a robot vacuum must possess strong suction and directed airflow.
### Do Robot Vacuums Work on Carpet?
Indeed, many robot vacuums are adept at cleaning carpets and rugs. Leading manufacturers such as iRobot, Roborock, Eufy, and Shark have dedicated years to refining their technology, particularly honing in on pet hair extraction and eliminating tangles in the brush roll.
If your residence features a variety of flooring types and experiences significant foot traffic, opting for the least expensive robot vacuum could result in frustration. A budget-friendly model is more prone to getting caught on rug edges or allowing pet hair to adhere to your carpet, leaving you feeling like you might as well do the cleaning yourself. However, rest assured that this doesn’t apply to every robot vacuum.
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**SEE ALSO:**
[As a Dyson enthusiast, I wouldn’t advise anyone to purchase the Dyson 360 Vis Nav robot vacuum](https://mashable.com/review/dyson-360-vis-nav-robot-vacuum)
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### What Makes a Robot Vacuum Great for Carpet?
The top robot vacuums for carpets merge substantial suction power with sophisticated brush roll systems engineered to delve deep into both low- and high-pile carpets. These systems adeptly capture hair and larger particles while simultaneously inhaling fine dust that less powerful models may overlook.
Suction strength is commonly quantified in Pascals (Pa), although several leading brands like iRobot and Shark employ their own metrics. If suction strength is provided, target at least 5,000 Pa—anything under 4,000 Pa is not advisable. Premium models generally deliver between 10,000 and 12,000 Pa, guaranteeing a comprehensive clean.
Our favored selections feature automatic suction adjustments, which calibrate the cleaning power to the type of flooring, increasing suction on softer surfaces such as carpets. Furthermore, all our suggestions come with self-emptying docks (or at least provide them as an option), minimizing the necessity for frequent trips to the trash can—especially critical during deep-cleaning of carpets.
### How Do Robot Vacuums Perform on Different Floor Types?
If a robot vacuum can manage carpets—the most challenging surface to clean—it will easily handle hard floors like hardwood, tile, or laminate. Numerous high-end models with robust suction also shine in mopping, frequently featuring pressurized mopping pads that can wash and dry themselves. These advanced devices are outfitted with sensors to avoid mopping on carpets, ensuring a smooth transition between diverse floor types.
Most contemporary robot vacuums, particularly those launched post-2018, can navigate between surfaces without difficulty. However, even the finest models occasionally face challenges with smaller obstacles like bath mats.
### Choosing the Best Robot Vacuum for Your Carpet
Unsure which robot vacuum is suitable for your carpets or rugs? I personally evaluate and compare the latest models in my own residence, testing their efficacy on various carpet pile heights, rugs, and bath mats. I also measure their capability to collect pet hair and debris, shift between floor types, and adjust suction autonomously.
Following extensive evaluation, here are my top three robot vacuums for carpets in 2024:
*(Stay tuned for the complete list!)*