This article first appeared on Mashable for a US readership and has been modified for the UK market.
If you’re prepared to invest some cash, a robot vacuum is an excellent choice. By that, we imply an investment in leisure while technology manages the cleaning tasks. Truly, we can’t envision a more effective way to use your hard-earned money.
Unless you possess technical expertise, picking a robot vacuum cleaner to traverse your home can be daunting. There are a multitude of models on the market, each presenting variations on the same fundamental idea, along with their unique specifications and characteristics.
If the idea of choosing a robo vac seems intimidating, there’s no need to stress: We’re here to help. We’ve conducted some research on your behalf, allowing you even more time to unwind. Below is a brief overview of robot vacuums — along with our selection of the top models available for purchase at this moment.
Are robot vacuums worth the investment?
The specific control offered by a traditional, upright vacuum has its appeal. However, if you find cleaning to be a source of stress, a robot vacuum could alleviate a significant chore from your list of tasks. Whether or not robot vacuums are a worthwhile investment depends on a key factor: It cannot be any robot vacuum at random. An inexpensive robovac that operates erratically — dispersing dust instead of sucking it up, colliding with walls, getting ensnared on carpets — undermines the entire point. Robot vacuums are meant for convenience, so select one that makes life easier.
What are the key features of robot vacuums?
Here’s a rundown of essential features to keep in mind when buying a robot vacuum:
App control — Robot vacuums with WiFi capability can connect to a smartphone app to handle scheduling and various functions. If you’re used to asking Alexa or Google to switch off the lights or provide updates on the weather, a model with voice compatibility will integrate seamlessly.
Battery longevity — Larger areas necessitate more cleaning time, so it’s important to have a battery that lasts. The run times for the options listed below range from 115 to 240 minutes.
Docking station — Numerous robot vacuums include a multifunctional docking station. The robovac will autonomously return to the dock and empty its bin while also recharging the battery. The docking station might also function as a bin for collecting debris.
Floor compatibility & mopping — Depending on the types of floors in your residence, seek out models equipped for both carpet and hard surfaces. This may encompass the capability to navigate higher pile rugs. Additionally, hybrid models that mop hard floors are available.
Low-profile cleaning — No one should be anxious about what has amassed under their sofa over the previous year. A robot vacuum that is three inches tall or less should be capable of gliding under most low-clearance sofas and beds.
Navigation & mapping — Each robot vacuum is furnished with sensors and drop detection. However, if your home comprises numerous rooms, turns, or closely arranged furniture, you’ll experience fewer navigation challenges with an advanced model utilizing intelligent mapping to memorize your home’s layout.
Pet hair removal — Pet owners ought to opt for a model with an anti-tangle roller brush, which will gather cat and dog hair while also averting clogs in the robot vacuum.
Suction capability — A vacuum is one item that you genuinely hope will perform well in terms of sucking. Suction capability is generally gauged in Pascals (Pa), typically ranging from 2,500-10,000 Pa. More powerful suction is required to pick up heavier debris and to extract pet hair from carpets.
Keep these features in mind when you’re in the market for a robot vacuum.
What is the top robot vacuum?
This isn’t a scenario where one size fits all. “Best” for someone with multiple dogs and numerous carpeted rooms might not equate to “best” for someone residing in a spacious home filled with hardwood floors. To help clarify the available choices, we’ve compiled a diverse range.
These are the leading robot vacuums of 2025.