Tips on how to choose a robot vacuum cleaner: an overview of the types, their characteristics and functions

Choosing a robot vacuum cleaner among all the variety is quite difficult..

There is no single answer to the question of which vacuum cleaner is better.

Before buying, you should study the advice and reviews of experts on specialized resources, thematic forums.

The following is a detailed analysis of what you should pay attention to when choosing a robot vacuum cleaner for an apartment or a country house.

Types of robotic vacuum cleaners

All types of robotic vacuum cleaners are divided into three types:

• for dry cleaning;
• for wet cleaning;
• mixed cleaning.

Robot vacuum cleaners for dry cleaning

This type of vacuum cleaner works like an electric broom. Managing them is quite simple. We offer a wide range of dry cleaning robotic vacuum cleaners at affordable prices.

The device in question will be able to collect dust, debris, animal hair from hard surfaces (laminate, tile, parquet). In addition, it can be used to clean short pile carpets.

Robot vacuum cleaners for wet cleaning

These devices operate on the same principle as the first option. However, they differ in that in addition to eliminating dust, the vacuum cleaner washes the floors.

The vacuum cleaner comes with containers for clean and dirty water.

Among the shortcomings of these devices, the impossibility of cleaning carpets stands out. Therefore, before work, it is required to carry out independent dry cleaning.

mixed cleaning

It combines dry and wet cleaning. The device will cope with all tasks related to cleaning.

How to choose a robot vacuum cleaner

When choosing a robot vacuum cleaner, it is necessary to take into account its main characteristics. Below they are discussed in detail.

Suction power

The greater the suction power, the higher the cost of the robot vacuum cleaner.

The lower and middle price segment of vacuum cleaners have a low suction power - 1200-1500 Pa. This power is enough to remove dust and small debris.

Expensive models of robotic vacuum cleaners have a capacity of 2100–2500 Pa. This is enough for high-quality cleaning of a carpet with a small nap.

Cleaning area

The cleaning area is affected by the battery capacity, as well as the ability of the device to build a map of the room.

More vacuum cleaners are able to clean an area of ​​​​less than 60 square meters. m.

Dust container volume

The choice of the volume of the dust collector is affected by the area of ​​​​the apartment.

If the area is up to 40 sq. m., then a dust container with a volume of 0.3 liters will suffice. For an apartment of 40 sq. m. up to 80 sq. m. m. Suitable devices with a dust collector volume of 0.5 liters. If the apartment has an area of ​​​​more than 80 square meters. m., then it is worth choosing a vacuum cleaner with a dust container volume closer to 1 liter.

Noise level

The noise level of the robot cleaner should be below 40 dB. In this case, the vacuum cleaner will not interfere with rest during operation.

If this value is 50 dB or more, then this can already cause discomfort. This level exceeds the permissible norms according to SanPiN, so such a device cannot be turned on at night.

Care and maintenance

The robotic vacuum cleaner requires constant care. It is necessary to properly clean the dust collector and movable wheels, wipe the sensors, the removable filter, etc. from dust.

It is very important that all the elements can be easily reached and placed back without any problems.

Some of the consumables in your device need to be replaced periodically.

It is worth clarifying that they are affordable and available. Such materials include: brushes, rags, filter.

Dimensions

Most robot models are round in shape. Due to this, they go around different objects on the floor and go around corners.

The smaller the robot, the better it cleans in corners and under furniture. If it is important that the vacuum cleaner cleans under the bed, you should choose devices with a height of 6–8 cm. This characteristic is individual and depends on the height of the legs of the furniture.

Cleaning modes

Most robotic vacuum cleaners (both budget and expensive) are equipped with different cleaning modes.

These modes mean the presence of options that will make the cleaning process better. For example, it can be the ability to set a cleaning plan, the presence of zone cleaning, which allows you to clean a specific place or room.

Filters

Vacuum cleaner filters can be disposable or reusable.

First, paper. They are changed as they get dirty. The second is synthetic. They can be washed. It is best to do this after every cleaning.

There are also robots with a HEPA filter.. Dust on such filters settles on the fibers. At the same time, purified air enters the outside. However, if a dirty filter is used, then old dust will be released into the air during cleaning.

Additional functions

When choosing a vacuum cleaner model, many find it difficult to select the necessary functions.

It is worth choosing those options that are useful for these conditions. It would be completely irrational to overpay for unnecessary functions.

The following are the most popular options for robotic vacuum cleaners.

virtual wall

Due to such a function as a virtual wall, the robot vacuum cleaner will be able to navigate in space. With the help of a virtual wall, the robot divides the room into zones. The vacuum cleaner, in this case, will not leave the room in which it cleans.

Also, this function will be useful when it is required to restrict the robot's access to some fragile thing.

Building a room map

The construction of a map by a robot vacuum cleaner can be carried out on the basis of one of the following methods:

• using the camera on the case. When the device moves, the camera captures the surfaces of the ceiling, walls, windows and doors. Then, due to the built-in software, the optimal trajectory of movement is built;
• using a laser range finder. The device analyzes all surfaces using a laser rangefinder, and then builds a route.

Due to the considered function, cleaning will become more efficient and of high quality.

Self-cleaning at the base

Vacuum cleaners with a self-cleaning function on the base are suitable for those who are repelled by the need to empty the dust container.

At the moment, a robot vacuum cleaner has already been developed, which self-cleans on the base and, in addition, independently rinses napkins and dries them after cleaning.

Ultraviolet lamp

A robot with an ultraviolet lamp is suitable for those who believe that a UV lamp can eliminate harmful bacteria in a very short time.

Let's tell you a secret - a completely useless function, a trick of marketers.

turbo brush

Turbobrush - a special brush, due to which it is possible:

• clean the pile of carpets from small debris;
• clean the dust;
• remove difficult stains;
• clean the floor from wool and hair.

Smartphone control

The mobile application can completely replace the remote control for the robot vacuum cleaner.

A map of the apartment will be shown on the screen of the mobile device. The zone can always be limited.

Electronic water regulation

At the moment, a large number of models are equipped with the ability to electronically adjust the degree of wetting of the napkin. This is especially in demand if the house or apartment has wooden floors.

In addition, some models have the option of choosing an individual degree of wetting of the napkin for each of the rooms. For example, for a tile floor, you can choose a rich wetting of the wipe, and in the living room and bedroom, where the floors are made of laminate, you should choose a low level of water supply so as not to spoil the wooden flooring.

Recognition of objects on the floor

This function is equipped with a small number of robotic vacuum cleaners.

Due to the installed front camera, the robot vacuum cleaner can recognize a variety of objects that may interfere with cleaning. It can be slippers, wires, socks, or even pet waste products. They will not interfere with the cleaning process, as the robot will go around them.

The device can be launched from anywhere in the world.

Automatic power increase on carpet

If the area of ​​\u200b\u200bhousing is large and there are carpets, then you should pay attention to robotic vacuum cleaners that automatically increase power when they enter the carpet.

Due to this, carpets will be better cleaned of hair, debris and dust, and the vacuum cleaner will not waste battery power in vain.

On hard floors, the robot works in standard mode. This is enough for high-quality dry cleaning.

When driving on a carpet, the vacuum cleaner increases its power to the maximum. It then reduces power accordingly when leaving the carpet.

Simultaneous dry and wet cleaning

If the vacuum cleaner simultaneously vacuums and washes the floor, then less time is spent on the cleaning process.

Typically, this function is available for models that have a dust collector and a water tank installed at the same time. In this case, the device can first sweep the floor and remove dirt in one pass, and then wipe the floor with a damp cloth.

In this case, it is not necessary to first turn on dry cleaning, and then change the dust collector to a water tank and start the cycle again.

Saving multiple cleaning cards

If you own a house with two or three floors, then you should buy a robot vacuum cleaner that can store several cards in memory.

Due to this option, when moving the robot from floor to floor, the device will not need to study the floor again and build a map of the room. Cleaning will be faster and better.

This feature is also called "Multi-Card Support". It is supported by high class robots.

Which company to choose

A good manufacturer produces high-quality appliances and smart electronics in one package.

Each brand of robotic vacuum cleaners positions itself as the best brand. Many firms consistently deliver classic functionality at an affordable cost.

High-tech devices include those that are easily integrated into the Smart Home system. Buying a robot vacuum cleaner of this class is worth it to those who use a variety of technologies in everyday life.

How to prepare the vacuum cleaner for work and how to maintain it

Proper care of the robot vacuum cleaner is an important condition for its uninterrupted long-term operation. This requires regular cleaning. Some models work independently of a person.

After the purchase, it is necessary to ensure that the movements of the vacuum cleaner on the floor are smooth, without jerks. Otherwise, you should contact the service department.

After cleaning, the device must be thoroughly cleaned.

The robot vacuum cleaner can be connected to a smartphone. This allows you to control it remotely directly from your mobile device.

To do this, you need to download a special application on a phone that supports wireless technologies.. The vacuum cleaner then connects to Wi-Fi.

The application has the ability to make such settings for the robot so that it does not just clean the rooms, but itself determines the pollution that needs to be eliminated.

Cleaning the device consists of several mandatory steps. All main elements of the robot are cleaned of dust. This is required to be done regularly. The service life of the robot depends on regular cleaning.

The dust container must be cleaned regularly. It needs to be taken apart and cleaned thoroughly. These actions will prevent dust and dirt from entering the battery.

In addition, it is important to monitor the cleanliness of the filters, and change them if necessary. To do this, a special set of additional filters and brushes is provided with the robot vacuum cleaner.

TOP 5 best robot vacuum cleaners by price / quality for 2024-2025

Next, we bring to your attention a rating of five robotic vacuum cleaners that have the best value for money.

Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop (Global), White

This inexpensive model is a new version of the robot vacuum cleaner with visual navigation.

With the help of visual navigation, information about the location of the vacuum cleaner is collected and a map is drawn.

The vacuum cleaner is protected from falls by 15 sensors. In addition, they improve device navigation and allow you to avoid obstacles.

There are 4 cleaning modes. Each mode has a different suction power.

Due to the small height of the robot, it freely makes its way under the bed, under the wardrobe and other hard-to-reach places.

Characteristics:

• type of cleaning: dry and wet;
• operating modes: zigzag movement or along walls;
• WxDxH: 35.30x35x8.15 cm;
• weight: 3.6 kg.

Advantages:

• high quality cleaning;
• simple control;
• does not get stuck;
• high suction power;
• high quality materials.

Flaws:

• does not clean the filter on its own.

Robot vacuum cleaner Roborock S5 MAX (RU), white

The presented model has visual navigation.

Due to the fact that the water tank is equipped with an intelligent system, it protects it from leaks.

The presence of visual navigation allows the robot to collect location information and draw highly accurate maps.

The robot is protected from falls by 15 sensors. They also allow you to work correctly at any time of the day.

The vacuum cleaner has a small height, so it can easily pass under the furniture. Climbing on carpets allows high traffic.

Characteristics:

• type of cleaning: dry and wet;
• operating modes: zigzag movement, local cleaning, movement along the walls;
• WxDxH: 35.30x35x8.15 cm;
• weight: 3.6 kg.

Advantages:

• high quality cleaning;
• simple control;
• does not get stuck;
• high suction power;
• high quality materials.

Flaws:

• does not clean itself.

Robot vacuum cleaner Polaris PVCR 3200 IQ Home Aqua

This model carries out high-quality cleaning. This requires minimal user control.

The robot carries out dry and wet cleaning in living quarters.

The body of the vacuum cleaner is equipped with a water tank. Due to the presence of cyclone technology, dust and small debris are effectively removed from floor coverings.

This model moves around obstacles without any problems. Memorization of the layout of the room is provided by 15 sensors.

A proprietary mobile application allows you to control the robot of this model. With this application, it is possible to specify cleaning zones and configure various settings.

The approximate operating time of the vacuum cleaner without interruption on a full charge is three hours. At the end, the robot independently returns to the station for recharging.

Characteristics:

• type of cleaning: dry and wet;
• operating modes: local cleaning, quick cleaning, movement along the walls;
• WxDxH: 35x35x9.60 cm;
• weight: 3.5 kg.

Advantages:

• it is possible to connect to the Smart Home system;
• simple control;
• does not get stuck;
• low noise level;
• high quality materials.

Flaws:

• high price.

Xiaomi Dreame F9 robot vacuum cleaner, white

Washing Dreame F9 has a classic round shape. Case height is only 8 cm. This allows it to penetrate under sofas, beds and other furniture.

This model has built-in gyroscopes and TOF lidar sensors. They allow you to navigate in space, draw a map of the room and measure the distance to objects.

Due to the presence of 15 different sensors, the control is more accurate, and the cleaning is better.

The trajectory of the movement of the vacuum cleaner is built in such a way as to capture all the places in the room. The device traces the toolpath in a Z-path.

At the end of cleaning, Dreame F9 processes the edges of the room, which guarantees high-quality cleaning over the entire area.

When the cleaning is completed, the device returns to the place of charging. However, this only happens if the robot was launched from a station.

Characteristics:

• type of cleaning: dry and wet;
• operating modes: zigzag movement, local cleaning, movement along walls, quick cleaning;
• WxDxH: 35x35x8 cm;
• weight: 1.5 kg.

Advantages:

• light weight;
• simple control;
• does not get stuck;
• low noise level;
• high quality materials.

Flaws:

• high price.

Robot vacuum cleaner iRobot Roomba 698, silver/black

This robot vacuum cleaner is made in techno style. Has a lithium-ion battery.

With the help of the mobile application it is possible to program a 7-day cleaning cycle. In addition, through the application it is possible to send the robot for cleaning from anywhere in the world at any time.

This model provides powerful suction, cleans along walls and penetrates hard-to-reach places.

Due to the presence of unique brushes, dirt is collected from the corners and sent to the main rollers. Rubber rollers will collect dust, dirt and hair and send them to a powerful vacuum channel. From the vacuum channel, all debris is sent to the waste bin.

Characteristics:

• cleaning type: dry;
• operating modes: zigzag movement, local cleaning, movement along walls, quick cleaning;
• WxDxH: 33x33x9.40 cm;
• weight: 3.5 kg.

Advantages:

• light weight;
• simple control;
• does not get stuck;
• low noise level;
• high quality materials.

Flaws:

• high price.

A short checklist for choosing a robot vacuum cleaner

When choosing a robot vacuum cleaner, you should be guided by the following recommendations:

1. If it is possible to pay more money, then you should choose vacuum cleaners with wet and dry cleaning.
2. It is important to consider the battery capacity. Her choice is influenced by the area of ​​​​the apartment.
3. It is necessary that the suction power be at least 30-40 watts. If you take 20 watts, there will be a lot of garbage.
4. It is worth choosing a vacuum cleaner with optical and ultrasonic sensors. They are less likely to encounter obstacles.

Thus, there are various models of robotic vacuum cleaners on the market. Each of them has advantages and disadvantages.When choosing this device, it is important to take into account all the parameters so that it brings maximum benefit.

Useful video

Good tips on how to choose a robot vacuum cleaner are given in the video: