Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums are generally much less powerful than regular vacuums. They also have smaller bins that require emptying more often.
They can be caught on furniture legs or struggle to cross thresholds or stairways. These issues can be prevented by choosing a model which does not have no-go zones on the app or physical barriers.
1. They're more efficient
The most effective robot vacuums we have tested in our tests score impressive pick-up scores on hard floors and low-pile carpets and can capture fine dust particles, sticky spills and food particles, nuts and screws made of steel and even fluffy pet hair. They can't replace a traditional vacuum cleaner, especially on rugs or in difficult to clean crevices, like under sofa legs, where debris can accumulate. And even though many robotic vacuums come with sophisticated navigation systems that assist them in avoiding obstacles and get around furniture, they still struggle to pick up dirt near baseboards and thresholds.
The best robots are fast to map out your home, intelligent enough to not get stuck too often and powerful enough to handle the bulk of your cleaning needs. They also come with a range of features, including HEPA filters and self-emptying bins that are more efficient than conventional vacuum cleaners.
Most robotic vacuums use surprisingly little power compared to traditional vacuum cleaners. They can use three times as much electricity as robots. They're also relatively quiet, making them a good choice for homes with small pets and children.
To make cleaning hands-free more convenient opt for models that have an integrated rechargeable battery and a large capacity dustbin that holds multiple cleaning sessions. If you'd like to program the robot's tasks, you can connect it to applications that allow you to organize regular cleaning sessions. You can also connect your robot to digital voice assistants like Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. The majority of robots can return to their charging station and recharge between cleaning sessions, or even continue the session from where it left at a different location.
2. You'll find them cheaper
The savings aren't that great but robot vacuums are more affordable than most other vacuum cleaners. Mop pads and filters are still needed and the lithium-ion battery will eventually degrade. Repairs and replacements can be costly also this is why it's important to consider how much your robovac will be used.
In our tests, even the least expensive robots struggled to reach those hard-to reach places under tables, sofas and bed frames. They also have a lower suction power and tend to fail to see dirt that is buried in soft carpets and in close proximity to baseboards.
If you are looking to purchase a robot that is cheap, look for a model with a high-efficiency motor and strong suction to ensure that even the tiny of particles are cleared from your floors. We also test the navigation system of a robot that is capable of avoiding obstacles and generate a coverage map of your home. If it isn't, they are slower and more susceptible to getting stuck or missing areas of the room.
Many cheaper robots are Wi-Fi connected, allowing you to plan cleaning sessions and control the device via apps on your smartphone or voice commands through Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. This is helpful if there are children or pets within the house that you want to keep from certain areas. Some models come with physical barriers that you can use to stop the vacuum from getting into areas where it shouldn't be.
If you decide to purchase a Wi-Fi-connected robot, make sure to check the fine print. Certain brands might collect information regarding your usage and pass it to third parties. You'll also need to consent to allow the device to keep information about your location and how long you've used the machine.
3. They're More Versatile
Robot vacuums are a great way to keep the floors clean and fresh. They aren't able to replace regular vacuum cleaners but they can be a great option for cleaning carpets that are thick. They can eliminate pet hair dust bunnies, crumbs and dust from surfaces such as tile and wood. They can also be used to clean low pile carpets and rugs. Many robot vacs also have features to help them navigate around obstacles such as furniture and stairs. Some robot vacuums can be programmed to operate according to an established schedule and you don't have to be concerned. This is a great feature for busy lifestyles.
This versatility comes with a drawback, however. Robotic vacs won't perform as well in areas with floors that aren't clean or areas that are covered in dirt and debris. They may be better suited to rooms with low traffic or for periodic maintenance. Certain models come with a "no go" zone option, which allows you to create virtual barriers within the application so that the bot does not move into these areas. These settings can be useful for households with children, pets or a lot of clutter.
The majority of robot vacuums come with a rechargeable battery, and a large dustbin to accommodate longer cleaning sessions. They can also be set to recharge, pause and then return to where they stopped which is beneficial for homes with larger spaces. Many robot vacuums are compatible with smart home systems, such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant which means you can control them with your voice. This provides a level of convenience that makes these robot vacuums worth the cost. They can even be programmed to clean while you're away, which will give you peace of mind knowing that your home is being kept in good condition.
4. It's More Safe
The technology in robot vacuums makes it a safer device than the more mechanical equipment that are used by traditional vacuum cleaners. The computer brain, sensors, and app integration make robots less prone to getting tangled or trapped in rugs and furniture. They also avoid stooping or bending that can lead to back pain and workplace injuries.
However, robot vacuums do have their flaws. They can be erratic and cause havoc in your home. They're also more prone to break down than traditional vacuums, and they're more expensive to repair. If you're considering a robotic vac for your home, it's important to read reviews and look at features to determine the most suitable one for your needs.
Even the best robot vacuums might have issues with shaggy carpeting and high-pile area rug. These substances slow the vac down and drain its battery. You can try fencing off these areas physically, or make use of an electronic barrier (in the robot vac's application) to avoid them.
It is also important to keep the vac dry and clean. It's possible to do this by regularly emptying the bin and ensuring that it's clean. It is also recommended to remove the battery from your robot vacuum when it is not being used, or put it away somewhere dry. This will protect the electronics, and ensure that the sensors function correctly.
Robot vacuums are an excellent way to maintain your floor without spending the time and energy to clean them manually. They are also a great choice for those with busy households or health issues that make it difficult to manually vacuum. They're also ideal for homes with an open floor plan and a few obstacles.
5. They're More Fun
One of the best things about robot vacuum cleaners is that they're just plain enjoyable to use. If you're watching the robot scoot around the floor, or preparing it to run at night when you're away, a vacuum is like having a magical assistant that takes care of the chores for you. It's a great method to teach children how important it is to clean and taking responsibility. Additionally, you can encourage them to keep an eye on the robot and ensure it's running smoothly.
That said robot vacuum cleaners are not 100% perfect and do have disadvantages. One of the main disadvantages is that they are less powerful than regular vacuum cleaners. Additionally the bins that are built inside are smaller than the standard bag or canister. This can result in less capacity for dirt and a need to empty it more often, especially if you have pets. Robot vacuums can also be prone to become stuck or clogged up by small obstacles, such as slippers or socks that can block the brush roll. It is essential to remove these items from the area prior to vacuuming and then take a dry cloth to the inside of the dustbin to remove any debris that's sticking to its walls.
Ultimately robot vacuums are a ideal choice for those who want the convenience of automated cleaning without having to sacrifice performance. They're also less expensive than traditional vacuum cleaners, and they provide additional flexibility, such as the possibility of scheduling cleanings with your smartphone or smart-home app. They're not a vacuum cleaner and their limited capabilities make them unsuitable for homes with large or cluttered furniture.