Robot Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
Robot vacuums are usually less powerful than full-sized vacs. They also to have smaller bins that require to be cleaned often.
They can be stuck on furniture legs or struggle to get around thresholds or stairs. Choosing a model with no-go zones in the app or physical barriers can aid in avoiding these issues.
1. They're more Efficient
The top robot vacuums we test have impressive results on carpets with low pile, hard floors and sticky spills. They also collect metal screws, nuts and fluffy pet hair. But they aren't able to completely replace a traditional plug-in vacuum cleaner, especially on rugs and in tough to clean crevices that debris accumulates like under sofa legs. And even though many robotic vacuums have sophisticated navigation systems that assist them in avoiding obstacles and maneuver around furniture, they still struggle to pick up dirt near baseboards and thresholds.
The best robots are fast to plan out your home, smart enough not to get stuck too often, and strong enough to handle the bulk of your cleaning needs. They also come with many features, including HEPA filters and auto-emptying bins that can make them more efficient.
robot vacuum cleaner on sale to traditional vacuum cleaners which can require up to three times as much power to operate as a robot, most robotic vacs consume surprisingly low amounts of electricity. They're also relatively quiet, making them a good option for homes with young children and pets.
For more convenient hands-free cleaning choose a model with an integrated rechargeable battery and a dust bin that can accommodate several cleaning sessions. And if you want to to schedule your robot's tasks most robots can connect to apps that allow you to organize regular cleaning sessions or connect with digital voice assistants, such as Amazon's Alexa and Google Assistant. Most robots can also return to their charging dock and recharge between cleaning sessions or resume the same session from where they left off, even in a different room.
2. They are more affordable.
Robotic vacuums are generally more affordable than other vacuum cleaners, however the savings aren't astronomical. There is still the need to purchase consumables such as mop pads and filters, and the lithium-ion batteries will eventually wear out. Repairs and replacements are also expensive, so it's important that you consider the frequency with which your robovac will be used.
In our tests, the cheapest robots struggled to reach those difficult-to-access areas under sofas, tables and bed frames. They also have lower suction power, and often miss dirt that is embedded in plush carpets and in close proximity to baseboards.
Choose a robot with strong suction and a motor that is high-efficiency to ensure that even the tiniest particles are eliminated. We also test the navigation system of a robot, which should be capable of avoiding obstacles and generating an outline of your home. If it isn't, you will be slower and more likely to become stuck or miss areas of the room.
Many cheaper robots are Wi-Fi connected, allowing you to schedule cleaning time and control the device via apps on your smartphone or via Amazon's Alexa or Google Assistant. This is useful for families with children or pets that you want to keep away from certain areas in your home. Some models have physical barriers you can install to stop the vac from going where it should not.
If you decide to purchase a Wi-Fi connected robot, make sure to check the fine print. Certain brands may collect information about your use and pass that on to third-party companies. You'll also need to consent to allow the device to store details about your location and how long you've been using the machine.
3. They're more versatile
While they're not able to replace a traditional vacuum cleaner for deep cleaning carpets, robot vacs are ideal for keeping floors looking and feeling clean. They can eliminate pet hair, crumbs and dust bunnies from surfaces such as tiles and wood. They can also be used to clean carpets with a low pile. A lot of robot vacuums come with features that allow them to navigate around obstacles such as staircases and furniture. Additionally, certain robot vacuums are able to run according to a set schedule so you don't have to worry about them. This is an especially useful feature for those with hectic lifestyles.
This flexibility has a drawback however. Robotic vacuums do not perform as well in areas with floors that aren't clean or heavily used areas that are covered with dirt and debris. They may be more suitable for rooms with a low amount of traffic, or for periodic maintenance. Some models have an "no go" zone setting that allows you to create virtual barriers in the software to ensure that the bot will not enter these areas. These settings are useful for homes with pets, kids or a lot of clutter.
The top robot vacs also have rechargeable batteries as well as an enormous dust bin for longer cleaning sessions. They can also be set to stop, recharge and then resume where they stopped which is beneficial for homes with larger areas. Many robot vacuums are compatible with smart home systems such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant which means you can control them using your voice. The robot cleaners are well worth the price since they offer a high level of convenience. You can set them up to clean your home when you're away. This provides you with peace of mind knowing that your home will always be well-maintained.
4. They're safer
The technology of robot vacuums makes it a safer option than the more mechanical equipment used by traditional vacuum cleaners. The sensors, computer brain, and app integration make robots less prone to getting stuck or entangled in rugs and furniture. They also stop stooping and bends that can cause back pain and injuries in the workplace.
But, robot vacuums have their quirks. They can be erratic and cause havoc to your home. They're also more prone to break down than traditional vacuums and are more costly to fix. It's crucial to compare features and read reviews to choose the ideal robot vacuum for your home.
Even the best robot vacuums can have problems with shaggy area rugs and high-pile carpeting. These materials slow down the vacuum and draw its battery. You can either fence off the area physically or use an application to create an artificial barrier.
In addition, it's important to keep the vac clean and dry. It's possible to do this by regularly emptying the bin and making sure it's free of dust. You should also remove the battery from your robot vac when it is not in use or store it somewhere dry. This will safeguard the electronics and ensure the sensors are working properly.
Robot vacuums are an excellent way to maintain your floor without having to spend the time and energy required to clean them manually. They're also a great option for busy households and those with health considerations that would make it difficult to manually vacuum. They're also great for homes with an open layout and no obstacles.
5. It's More Fun
One of the great things about robot vacuum cleaners is that they're genuinely fun to use. A robot vacuum cleaner is like having a magic assistant who takes care of your chores. It's also a great opportunity to teach kids about the benefits of cleaning and being responsible, as you can have them help monitor the bot and encourage them to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
Robot vacuum cleaners have a few disadvantages. One of the major drawbacks is that they are less powerful than conventional vacuum cleaners. Also, the bins built into them are smaller than a standard bag or canister. This can result in less dirt capacity and a need to empty it more often particularly if you have pets. Also robot vacuums are vulnerable to getting stuck or entangled in small obstacles that block the path of the brush roll, including slippers, socks or even larger power cords. Remove these items before vacuuming. Use a dry cloth on the inside of the walls of the bin to get rid of any debris.
Ultimately robot vacuums are a ideal choice for those who are looking for the convenience of automated cleaning, without losing performance. They are also more affordable 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 vacuum cleaners and their limited functionality makes them unsuitable for homes with lots or clutter in furniture.