Best Robotic Vacuum Cleaners: For Advanced Cleaning
Vacuum cleaners are important devices we need around us, whether at home, in the office, in the car, anywhere. They help to maintain a clean environment by picking up surrounding dirt using their suction system. These devices have been designed in such a way that they can either be installed or handheld while the operator moves through the areas that need cleaning.
However, there are different types of vacuum cleaners, and the latest one now is the robotic vacuum cleaner which uses another mechanism for operation. These automated devices are not any different from the conventional or upright vacuum cleaners used in homes or offices today, but they are different in the mechanism of operation, and features. Most times, they are placed on the floor (hardwood or carpet) while they pick up dirt from the deepest places.
Due to the immense benefits of these automated devices, it is essential that people get the best robotic vacuum cleaners available. This is to ensure efficiency and topnotch performance while cleaning the house or the office.
So in the endeavor of finding the best vacuum cleaners, we have reviewed the 10 best robotic vacuum cleaners fast-selling on the market. Also, you will go through the workings of these machines, types, advantages of automatic floor cleaning machine, a brief comparison between robotic vacuum cleaner & upright vacuum cleaner, cleaning & maintenance, buying guide and FAQs. Stay calm, as we enlighten you on some of the products we love.
Top 6 Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
| Product | Best Price |
|---|---|
Our Pick |  |
Best Scheduling system | |
Best for Thin carpets | |
Effective Dirt Detect Technology | |
Best for wet and dry conditions | |
Effective Cleaning of Hard Floors | |
How Does It Work?
Generally, robotic vacuum cleaners have similar functions as a normal vacuum cleaner, but what makes them different is the way they are operated. Robotic vacuum cleaners have buttons which are used to switch them on and off. They make use of a power source which can be corded or cordless; such that, electricity or power is provided for effective functioning. There are different features in these devices, which include; brushes, HEPA filter, and so on.
It works in such a way that: it is connected to a power source and turned on. Then, it is placed on either on a wood floor, tiles, or a carpet, depending on the compatibility of the device. Watch closely, as it picks up dirt and materials within that area. In fact, it can go as far as picking up pet hairs on such floor. This is how it works and performs its functions without being interrupted.
Advantages of Using a Robotic Vacuum Cleaner
It will interest you to know that there are benefits attached to owning a robotic vacuum cleaner, and some of them include;
- Very efficient: These devices are very efficient, even more than the normal vacuum cleaners you see around. They have been improved with good tech, so that maximum cleanliness can be achieved without stress. In fact, you don’t have to move from one location to another before you get to clean a particular area completely.
- Simple to handle: Robotic cleaners are simple to handle because they are easy to use. They don’t require too much stress at all, just for you to place where it is needed, and it does it work. It can even be handled without an instructional guide.
- Time-intensive: As aforementioned, there is no time to waste when it comes to robot vacuum cleaners. They are fast, easy to use, and cleans up an area within a few minutes, unlike normal vacuum cleaners that take too much time.
- Improved with the latest tech: Generally, what makes them robotic is because of the technology they have been built with. It has an advanced tech inside of it that controls all the operation. In fact, some of them use app controls or remote controls for active functioning. This means the tech makes them different and unique.
- Exquisite design: Sometimes, people wonder why these set of devices are good, and there is no better reply than looking at its exquisite but compact design. It has numerous features that make it worth the value for money. It can be regarded as one of the many advantages of this cleaner over handheld vacuum cleaners in general
Robotic Vacuum Cleaner vs. Upright Vacuum Cleaner:
Robotic vacuum cleaners are great, and they can help to perform the cleaning of your floor all on their own. You don’t have to do anything; they can even have themselves recharged for future use. They don’t take up much space.
On the other hand, upright vacuum cleaners have a wide range of use but do not work automatically. You need to move with this device from one place to another just to clean the floor. Upright vacuum cleaners are popular because of their low price, but even then the biggest problem with these is because of the sizes, these machines are not able to reach the low surface areas, which the robotic vacuum cleaner easily. You can even opt for schedules cleaning without moving an inch with these robotic cleaners.
Due to the range of advantages that these devices proffer to the people, robotic vacuum cleaners has reached such high demand in the market.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips for Robotic Vacuum Cleaner
If you want your robotic vacuum cleaners to stand the test of time, then it is advised that you engage a strict maintenance culture. Here are a few cleaning and maintenance tips to employ for your cleaner
Use it regularly
This is very basic if you want a robot to be at top performance, you need to make use of it regularly. If you don’t use your robot vacuum cleaner for a long time, this is not ideal. At least, you should make use of the machine once a week. This way, the system is kept up and running.
Clean the brush often
These robot vacuum cleaners make use of brushes to keep your floor clean. It is not impossible that there is dirt hanging on the brush. Hence, it is advised that you carry out a thorough brush removal every week to ensure efficiency in subsequent operations.
Avoid locations of extreme temperature
You shouldn’t expose your machine to places of either extreme heat or cold. If your machine is exposed to these extreme temperatures, it can reduce the lifespan of the machine.
Perform regular clean of the dustbin
You are aware that this machine is smaller in size, hence, a lower dust capacity. Due to this, it is best to clean the dustbin of the machine regularly. You should ensure this before and after use.
Clean the HEPA filter
Another part of the machine that needs cleaning is the HEPA filter, which should be cleaned regularly, just as frequent as the dustbin.
Protect the sensors
You should ensure the proper protection of your machine’s sensor; these parts serve as the eyes of the machine. Hence you want them working at optimum condition.
Types of Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
Truth be told, robotic vacuum cleaners are good, and that is why they have been categorized into four types on the basis of the floor they work best with. The four types of robotic vacuum cleaners are;
Hardwood Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
These are vacuum cleaners that are powered using electricity or batteries and are only suitable for wood floors because of their design. These vacuum cleaner for hardwood flooring have smooth performance, knowing they work on smooth surfaces. Often, they are cheaper and useful in several ways.
Carpet Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
The second type works solely on carpets. The vacuum cleaners for carpet have a tough design so that they can pick up dirt, debris, and hairs in the tightest places. They are effective in performance, but a little difficult to control as compared to the wood vacuum cleaners. Also, they are more expensive but top notch.
Tiles Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
Thirdly, the tiles floor robotic vacuum cleaners are a little different in function because they don’t have anything to pick in tough areas; rather, they remove stains or debris that hang out on them. For instance, if food spills, it may be difficult trying to deal with that on your own, but a tile vacuum cleaner scrapes off the dirt/stain and keeps a clean surface.
Linoleum Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
People don’t often consider this type because the three above are the most common floors in homes and offices. However, if you happen to have a Linoleum floor, then you need to know that the vacuum cleaners designed for this are very delicate because the floor is tricky but easy to clean. Mainly, it gets the dust off the surface; especially it gets stuck as a result of humidity.
Buying Guide: What You Should Consider?
There are things you should look out for when making a choice on the best robotic vacuum cleaner. Apparently, there are great things about this device, but not all that glitters are gold. While some make a good performance, some are worse. This is why the factors below are essential during the selection process. Also, it helps during tough decision-making, so that you get to pick a preferred choice out of others.
Floor surface: Wood, Tiles, Carpet, or Linoleum?
If you want to buy a robotic vacuum cleaner, you need to look out for compatibility with the surface of the floor. The last thing you want is to get a cleaner that works the other way around. There are robotic cleaners for wood floors as well as for carpets; hence, know what you are working on and go for the type that does the job well. Also, tiled and linoleum floors are not left out as they may be a little different knowing the kind of surface they work on (more of scraping off the surface).
Noise:
The main purpose of this machine is to have your cleaning done without you having to attend to it. So also, you would appreciate a machine with next to no noise. Before you get the robotic cleaner, you should be sure of the level of noise it makes when cleaning is being done. Silent robotic cleaners are the best, though they may be costly than the others.
Navigation and mapping:
The navigation of your robotic system is very important to consider. This is because these machines operate autonomously, unlike the traditional vacuum cleaners. You should consider the level of technology imputed into the machine you want to get. It has to be high-end if you are looking to enjoy precision and accuracy from the machine.
The capacity of the bin:
This is another important factor to consider. You really don’t want a machine that you have to empty and clean out the bin every now and then, especially in the middle of its autonomous cleaning. These machines have very minimal sizes. However, there are ones with larger bin capacity; it is advised you go for this.
Floor Area
Since you will be working over a particular area, you should consider looking at the area before you make your decision. Some robotic cleaners have designated strength which may or may not be good for the place you are trying to clean up. If it is a small area, then, go for a device that covers such an area without difficulties.
Battery Life
The battery life is another important factor to consider in your choice of robotic vacuum cleaners. Most of the time, these cleaners have rechargeable batteries in them, which makes them even more useful.
However, you should understand that these batteries won’t stay forever; it will have to stop. When that happens, it doesn’t mean you should abandon the machine, but cycle and get a new battery. This is why, knowing the battery life is important, so you can make plans on how to get a new one when the former is down.
Brush or Brushless
In every vacuum cleaner, brushes are incredible features. However, this doesn’t mean all vacuum cleaners have brushes, as some don’t. The importance of a brush is to smoothen the surface currently being worked on and to ensure a clean slate is achieved. It is left for you to decide what you want.
If you are going with brushes (which most people do), always take time to clean the brushes and even wash them so it can be effective in picking hairs and dirt the next time you are making use of it.
Cord or Cordless
All robotic vacuum cleaners you see today are powered by something. If it doesn’t use batteries, surely, it will use electricity, even in the upright vacuum cleaners. These preferences come with features that make them useful, i.e., if it is cordless, then, it is either rechargeable or makes use of DC batteries, but if it is corded, it is only run by electricity.
Modes
What makes robotic cleaners what they are today because of what they possess. As we all know, they are automated devices that make use of advanced tech for effective running; therefore, having different modes shouldn’t be strange.
There are modes on them to make sure the area is well cleaned. Be sensitive to the kind of modes it has because you want something nice and easy.
Scheduling
More importantly, scheduling takes a bigger factor to consider because you want the sole purpose of buying a vacuum cleaner to be achieved. Scheduling takes a huge part whereby your machine knows where to clean at the right time, while you handle tough areas by yourself if the need arises. This is all about effective planning and executing.
App Features
95% of the time, these robot vacuum cleaners are controlled by applications which are installed on a mobile device. This makes it easy to use, as it is directed by you. These apps are updated regularly for effective performance, but you still need to always check out for these updates if you are making a choice of going for an app-controlled vacuum cleaner.
Pets
Most homes have pets like dogs or cats. In a case where these animals live in your home, you need to pay close attention to the kind of robotic vacuum cleaner you buy. Not every cleaner can pick out hairs; some are designed to clean the surface while some scrap or remove stains. Pet hairs around could cause itchiness; therefore, you need a vacuum cleaner for pet hair, especially in carpets.
6 Best Robotic Vacuum Cleaners
1. iRobot 300 Series Braava Floor Mopping Robot – Our Pick
iRobot has been one of the best manufacturers or quite sometime now, and with this iRobot 300 series Braava vacuum cleaner, there is a lot that can be achieved. This is a device that does all the cleaning surface in the home or office in less than no time because of the things that make up the cleaning machine. It works on all kinds of floors, i.e., tiles, hard floor, carpet, vinyl, linoleum, etc.
This vacuum cleaner can be used alongside with a cleaning cloth which is easy to attach and remove with the aid of its magnetic cleaning pad that can be used for different purposes. There are different cleaning modes using this device, which is what makes it very unique. It is even quiet enough that you barely hear a sound when it is in operation.
There are additional functions in the Braava cleaner, and one of them is the removal of dirt and debris off walls, furniture, skating boards, and many other impossible areas for other vacuum cleaners. Furthermore, it has a fancy design, as well as good storage with a charging time of 2 hours on the maximum. It has a good navigation system and shape, which makes it easy for the robot to do its cleaning job perfectly.
- Multipurpose cleaning pad
- Turbo charge cradle
- 2000 mAH battery
- Keeps a track on its own location
- Requires power of 7.5Watt
- Comes with 2 years of warranty
- Pro cleaning system
- EU Adaptor
- Exquisite storage and compact design
- Sleek and attractive
- Comes noiseless so that it can be used while sleeping
- Cleans every nook and corners of the room
- Suitable to use on any hard surface floor
- Very easy to use and handle
- Great battery life
- 2-year warranty available on this product
- Series of cleaning modes
- Does not have schedule operation
- Not very efficient in removing tough stains
2. iRobot 900 Series Roomba Vacuum Cleaning Robot – Best Scheduling system
Robot Vacuum Cleaner sounds cliché, but it has many things in store for people to see. This device is exceptional, and it absolutely makes a good value for money if we are to judge its number of features and functions. A look at its design, one would agree that it is effective while in action and attractive in looks.
It has two side brushes and the main roll brush that does the job of sweeping and packing dirt and debris for maximum cleanliness. It is smart in operation with the presence of advanced features like a time scheduling system and 4 working modes, which consist of Auto mode, Edge mode, Spot mode, and Normal mode.
Also, the power and battery life are incredible such that it uses a high capacity battery which is charged automatically and can be used for about 100 minutes until the next recharge. It is quite amazing that it can cover over 120 square meters within that time while it uses an anti-collision and anti-drop mechanism for operation. Lastly, they have three but thin and ultra-layered filter, which makes them clean an area very well, and these are; washable pre-filter, sponge filter, and a high-efficiency filter.
- Smart app control
- 4 Cleaning Modes
- Smart 3 stage cleaning system
- High-grade suction power
- Smart sensor tech
- Triple filter system
- 100 min. work time
- 2 years of warranty
- Requires 10.23Watt power
- They are very good at cleaning debris and dirt off wood and carpet surfaces
- Perfect for removing pet hairs
- Requires minimal effort and attention while cleaning
- Good working time over a good area
- Recharges itself automatically when power is down
- Allows scheduling
- Makes noise while cleaning
3. iLife A7 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner – Best for Thin carpets
iLife is another top brand one would always want to reckon with because of the quality of products being manufactured. Their iLife A7 robotic vacuum cleaner is amazing because of the number of things it can do and features it possesses. It makes use of a patented technology to clean and sweep off floors such as carpets, tiles.
This particular vacuum cleaner has a different working operation whereby it moves in a back and forth manner as a path mode for total cleaning. It functions differently with the aid of its three-cyclone power system which is used interchangeably with a roller brush, so that debris, dirt is cleaned off immediately without being visible. They even remove pet hairs from carpets which makes them even more special and useful hence the best robotic vacuum cleaner for pet hair.
This device is controlled by three mechanisms, which are; app control, mechanical, and remote control – these controls are the reason why it is easy to use; however, when using an app control, a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi frequency. It even uses a programmable scheduling systemwhich is a feature necessary for it to be able to clean at any time of the day. Finally, it has a set of filters, which makes it efficient and suitable to use in homes.
- App control
- Comes with a remote control
- Scheduling mechanism
- Have mechanical buttons
- Layers of filters
- LCD display
- Cyclone systems
- Dual roller brushes
- 5 modes; auto, edge, spot, max and path mode
- 1-year warranty
- Very easy to use
- Efficient in removing pet hairs
- Usable on a hard floor, thin carpets and some other kinds of floors
- Comes with an extra set of brushes, cleaning tools and filters
- High suction power
- Sturdy built quality
- Docking problems often occur
4. iRobot 600 Series Roomba Vacuum Cleaning Robot – Effective Dirt Detect Technology
iRobot Roomba 600 series vacuum cleaner looks very good when seen on the outside due to its design. It has managed to become one of the top-selling robotic vacuum cleaners with the number of features that comes with it, and the technology it was built with. For instance, it has a Dirt Detect technology which spots out debris and dirt from all corners of the home on different floor surfaces, making such an area clean and tidy.
This robotic cleaner can even go as far as cleaning the under layers of furniture, which is intriguing, but there is something that must be avoided, and those are the stairs and drop-offs. It works with the aid of a mechanical button that makes it automatically dock as well as recharge when power is down. There are also brushes at the edge that helps to sweep off these particles off the corners and edges of carpets.
In addition, it can even remove pet hairs and other debris along carpet fibers, keeping a clean condition in its own regard. This is done with the help of its multi-surface brushes that work hand-in-hand together to promote cleanliness. Vacuum suction is also available for extra help to pull out dust particles and debris from these floors.
- Home charging base station
- Low-profile design
- Line Cord
- Automatic dock and recharge
- 3 stage cleaning process
- 2-years’ warranty
- iAdapt Navigation system
- The device is very easy to control
- Has numerous brushes for different purposes
- High suction power
- Good warranty period
- Suitable in removing pet hairs and other particles
- Improved with unique technology for detecting dirt
- May take a lot of time to clean depending on your room size
5. iLife V7s Plus Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner – Best for wet and dry conditions
iLife has come with another amazing robotic vacuum cleaner, and this is the V7s Plus that can be used during both wet and dry conditions. It works using an i-Dropping technology where it sprinkles water on the floor with the help of a dropping water tank as the device is moving across. Using this method, water consumption is limited, and doing this; the floor gets cleaned thoroughly, leaving the area of impact good-looking and healthy. This is the best wet and dry vacuum cleaner that you can go for.
Now, in the same vein, when there is mechanical overload, the vacuum cleaner stops dispensing water to cope with the current situation. Indeed, it is an intelligent robotic vacuum cleaner which can be used at home, especially on tiles or wood floors. It also makes use of a smart dustbin detector which helps to scan and detect the presence of dustbins attached to the system and to avoid mechanical damage; if it is not, it alerts for an attachment.
Adding to all these above, the V7s vacuum cleaner has multiple cleaning modes such as; auto, edge, spot, and schedule mode, which have different functions for enhancing a good condition. On a mechanical outlook, it works between the range of 120 to 140 minutes while it charges automatically when power is down. Finally, it has a good sound level, which is almost inaudible.
- 300 ml storage tank capacity
- 2100 sq. ft cleaning coverage
- Comes with a remote control
- 4 cleaning modes; auto, edge, spot, and schedule modes
- 300 min. charging time
- 120-140 min. work time
- 2500 mAh battery capacity
- Comes with a side brush, cleaning brush, and charging base.
- Anti-collision system
- Come with a 1-year warranty
- Good battery life
- Suitable to use both on the dry and wet floor
- Dust box and water tank are good storage features
- Uses an AI technology for detecting dust
- Low profile design
- Decent and highly durable
- Recharges itself automatically without help
- It does not work efficiently in larger spaces
6. Eufy BoostQ Robovac 11C – Effective Cleaning of Hard Floors
Another brand with an impressive robotic vacuum cleaner is eufy with a Robovac 11C which has an automatic system that is even different from all other kinds of robotic cleaners out there. It has an innovative design coupled with a smart technology to enhance proper functioning and use in the home. There are multiple cleaning modes as well as auto-cleaning scheduling available so that the best and most efficient cleaning job is done.
Apparently, this is an improved version of the device, so it comes with additional features such as an upgraded front bumper and a reinforced suction inlet that prevents against wear and tear. It even has three cleaning systems and a powerful suction system to make sure a clean slate is achieved. With Robovac 11C, on a single charge, it comes alive with cleaning and can work for many hours.
Talking about navigation system, the robotic vacuum cleaner has a good one which makes it move along an accessible path that needs cleaning with the aid of its 11 infrared sensors on either side. It even has a way the time can be set manually so that it can be used at certain periods (scheduling). To conclude this, it can charge on its own without being aided.
- 3.02 lbs. weight
- 100 min. charging time
- Recharges automatically
- Comes with a remote control
- Boost IQ Technology
- Infrared sensors
- Three cleaning modes
- Mechanical button
- The suction system is different and powerful
- Uses both manual and automatic controls
- Cleans faster, better and easier
- Require less maintenance
- Effective in picking dirt underneath the sofa where our hands are inaccessible
- Does not clean wet floors
Frequently Asked Questions
It is okay to have questions when you see good products; therefore, the following are answers to a few of the frequently asked questions about the best robotic vacuum cleaners.
1. Why are they called robotic cleaners?
Simply because they make use of an automatic mechanism of operation, they are controlled in advanced ways which makes people wonder the brain behind the response and why it executes its roles perfectly.
2. Why are sensors integrated into these cleaners?
At the front of the vacuum cleaner, there is the presence of the unit’s sensors. The function of this sensor is to spot and avoid collision with nearby objects and obstacles. For less effective sensors, the machine is prone to slight bumps against surfaces before it moves in the opposite direction away.
This movement is carried out while the machine performs its cleaning function. There are some other machines with lasers or cameras that help the machine map the area of your house. Hence, there is a reduction in a potential collision.
3. How are they powered?
They are powered in two ways, i.e., with the use of batteries or through electricity. More often than not, most robotic vacuum cleaners make use of electricity, and that is why they are corded. The cordless ones use another power source.
4. Do they ensure total cleanliness?
They are more preferable than normal vacuum cleaners because they ensure total cleanliness. They don’t need to be carried about, but they perform their duties effectively. Within a few minutes, a dirty or uncomfortable area becomes clean and better.
5. Who makes the best robotic vacuum cleaners?
Everyone is eager to know what makes the best robotic vacuum cleaner, but this shouldn’t be the main focus, rather, what are the best robotic vacuum cleaners? Having an idea of the best cleaners gives an easy interpretation of who makes the best robotic vacuum cleaners. However, brands like iRobot, Eufy, iLife are top manufacturers of this device in various forms, series, and styles.
6. Does it come with high maintenance?
No one will ever see this device and not accept the fact that it requires high maintenance. It is too good enough not to be maintained properly so that it can work effectively. There is information on the product package to look out for, in order to know how they should be maintained
Conclusion
Being a little extra is good, especially when it comes to the state of affairs of your home. You need something strong, efficient, and active to keep your home clean; thus, a robotic vacuum cleaner comes handy. However, having the best robotic vacuum cleaner is bliss because there is so much to gain from using them in the home or in the office on different kinds of floor.
We have reviewed the top 10 best budget robotic vacuum cleaners above, and we hope you make a wise decision picking any of them.There is one last thing we need to do, and that is to show you our top 3 picks out of the different categories above are iRobot 900 Series Roomba 980 Vacuum Cleaning Robot, iRobot 300 Series Braava 390t Floor Mopping Robot, iRobot 600 Series Roomba 606 Vacuum Cleaning Robot.
In conclusion, make the wisest decision today by going for any of the robotic vacuum cleaners we have described above, and enjoy the maximum performance as well as an extensively clean home.
