We could all use some help in keeping our homes tidy, and we are now living in a time when robots can lend a hand. Robot vacuums are among the most common smart home gadgets widely available with their round forms and proclivity for colliding with walls. While they are undeniably convenient, they can also be costly. But, there are now many low-cost robot vacuum alternatives to pick from.
Suppose you’re newly introduced to the world of robot vacuums. In that case, one of these low-cost devices accomplishes all you expected and more, all without compromising cleaning performance.
Are Robot Vacuums Worth a Penny?
They have many other advantages, but before we go any further, consider the main disadvantages: reduced power, capacity, and adaptability.
The first two are related; robot vacuum cleaners are substantially smaller than upright vacuum cleaners, resulting in less powerful suction. Since their built-in containers are a tenth of the size of a normal vacuum canister or bag, they also collect less dirt. While robot vacuums are cordless, they are thrall to their batteries and must be recharged regularly.
Robot vacuums behave differently than normal vacuums when it comes to flexibility. Although you can operate some with your smartphone, establish cleaning schedules, and do other things, robot vacuums are mostly used to clean floors.
On the other hand, their upright counterparts can be equipped with various attachments that allow you to clean couches, staircases, lamp fixtures, and other difficult-to-reach areas.
You’re convinced that investing in a robot vacuum is worthwhile, so you’re wondering which robot vacuums to buy. As you read on, we will provide you with a list of the best robot vacuums you might be interested in purchasing one day.
iRobot Roomba 675
The iRobot Roomba 675 is the company’s entry-level robot vacuum, but it includes some of the identical features of its more expensive bots, making it one of the best Roombas. Its WiFi-connected bump-and-clean robot is operated by the iRobot Home app, which adds fancy features like geofence-triggered vacuum cycles and annual cleaning suggestions to this low-cost vacuum.
This robot vacuum includes automatic dirt detection; if it determines that an area has too much dirt or debris, it will spin around and completely clean that portion. It also performed admirably in expert lab tests, earning an overall average pickup score of 89.7. The Roomba 675’s one flaw was pet hair scoop-up; thus, if you have furry pals, not all of their hair may be collected.
Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge
The Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge is a Wi-Fi-connected robot vacuum with basic mapping capability and a host of handy functions, including Auto-return cleaning, typically seen on more expensive versions. If the G30 Edge runs out of power before completing its task, it will recharge itself on the dock before returning to work where it left off.
Select the suction power and start a spot cleaning from the EufyHome app. While it doesn’t have no-go zones like the Roborock S4 Max, the mapping on the G30 Edge will display where the vacuum is currently cleaning and where it gets trapped if it gets lost beneath a couch.
One of the most unexpected aspects of the Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge was its incredibly silent vacuuming. Even if the bot is nearby, you can have a normal discussion at normal loudness. The G30 Edge, like other mapping robots, cleans in an organized back-and-forth rhythm, a welcome change from erratic bump-and-clean bots.
This systematic cleaner received a total score of 88.94 in expert lab tests. Despite it struggling with tiny particles on the carpet, it excelled at picking up cereal, scoring an average of 98.7.
iLife V5s Pro
A hybrid robot with a water reservoir and a microfiber pad attachment for light floor cleaning. The iLife V5s Pro, like its sibling, the V3s Pro, excels at quietly tidying up after furry family members. It’s a simple bump-and-clean bot that bounces off surfaces and other objects, but according to the experts, it does it softly, slowing down well before impact. The V5s Pro performed admirably in our lab testing, scoring an average of 99.1 on our cereal test and 97.3 on their pet hair test.
You can’t vacuum and mop simultaneously, unlike other more expensive hybrids. Instead, you must replace the trash with a water reservoir and attach a microfibre pad to the robot’s underbelly. While the V5s Pro’s mopping ability will not have you throwing away your manual mop, its water-only cleaning is sufficient to make the floors appear presentable before guests arrive.
iLife V3s Pro
The iLife V3s Pro, the best affordable robot vacuum overall, has been around for a few times, but it’s still among the top options thanks to its unique mix of exceptional pet hair cleaning performance and cost — which is why it’s one of the best robot vacuums for animal hair. It works best on bare surfaces like wood floors, tile, and thinner rugs. Unlike most robot vacuums, the V3s Pro collects material through a 3-inch suction hole rather than a brush roll.
Because this bump-and-clean robot vacuum lacks Wi-Fi connectivity, the only way to control it is with the provided remote control or the onboard buttons. If you’re concerned about the security of internet-connected home equipment, this is the robot vacuum for you. The V3s Pro’s random cleaning pattern may miss a few spots, but if you’re prepared to keep an eye on this bot while it cleans, the iLife V3s Pro is a fantastic deal to keep your floors fur-free.
Final Thoughts
Simply because a robot vacuum cleaner is reasonably priced does not guarantee that it will not operate well. In contrast, some models can outperform those costing twice as much, if not outperform. The discrepancy will likely be due to the model’s features. Self-emptying bases, live streaming, and AI are attainable on a tight budget.
If you’re looking for a robot mop, some of the previously stated inexpensive versions may be worth considering. Hence, if you need to adhere to a budget, feel free, and don’t worry about it harming performance if you implement this advice. You may not know that one of these robot vacuums can greatly affect your smart home.