Rating of the best robot vacuum cleaners

The use of robotic vacuum cleaners is a very valuable business in everyday life. But in order to choose the right device and use it correctly, you need to know many subtleties and nuances. Including, you should familiarize yourself with the varieties of such a technique and their basic practical parameters.

Traditionally, the term "vacuum cleaner" is associated with a hand-held device. As for robotic counterparts, people often go to extremes. Some believe that such a technique can only "scare the cat out of its familiar place" and "delight the guests." Others place unreasonably high hopes on her. The real automatic vacuum cleaners presented in our review are somewhere in the middle between these polar estimates.

It's not just good to start with budget models because they can save you money. More importantly, a consistent description of more and more advanced vacuum cleaners makes it possible to clearly define what the difference between the levels is. When compiling a rating, attention cannot be ignored model Gutrend Joy 95... Despite the affordable price, the device does its best. The developers used a "free architecture" approach, allowing only those features for which the consumer is willing to pay.

However, the standard version of the robot is good enough. Automation allows you to avoid falls, not to get tangled in the wires and independently return to the charging base. The capacity of the battery allows you to work without interruption for 1 hour and 50 minutes. But there are also weak points: there is no main turbo brush, no messages about filling the container are given.

An interesting comparison with a Chinese vacuum cleaner Foxcleaner Up from Xrobot... This option is comparatively simple, but fully justifies the price paid. The attractive feature of the Foxcleaner Up is its compactness. With a height of 6.5 cm, the diameter does not exceed 30 cm.

The reduction in price was also achieved due to the abandonment of the remote control and docking station. These devices must be purchased separately, but the HEPA filter will delight consumers. There are versions of white, black and white and yellow colors.

For people who keep pets, it is recommended to purchase model Panda X600... Compared to the previous version, the vacuum cleaner has become noticeably improved. The company's designers have managed to increase the suction power to 85 W. This energy is automatically adjusted according to the operating conditions. The most effort is, of course, required on the carpet. The latest firmware can significantly improve navigation.

The powerful device can operate autonomously for up to 130 minutes. The delivery set also includes a virtual wall. All the advantages do not come at a higher price, which is important.

If you need the cheapest device, then you should opt for Clean Robot. But this model is devoid of:

• channels for suction of dirt;
• brushes;
• dust collector chambers.

All the work of this model is reduced only to scrubbing the surface with the supplied napkins.And this "conditionally vacuum cleaner", so to speak, has every right to exist. It is used when it is impossible to allocate a lot of money for a purchase.

The top of the most advanced robotic vacuum cleaners includes only those models that have a maximum of sensors and fairly advanced processors. This allows you to simulate elements of intellectual behavior. According to experts, the best version today is iRobot Roomba 980... With a weight of about 4 kg, the device has all the necessary capabilities to clean both hard surfaces and carpets. The 3300 mAh battery provides up to 120 minutes of intensive cleaning without recharging.

Importantly, the delivery set includes 2 virtual walls. The robot is capable of executing a program distributed over the days of the week. The rubber layer reliably prevents damage to furniture and other items. A full-fledged sound and voice accompaniment has been implemented. Automation helps to effectively avoid the maximum of obstacles; if some area was poorly cleaned due to the robot leaving for recharging, it will return there after "lunch".

Another typically American high-end product - Neato Botvac Connected... With a mass of 4.1 kg, it is quite high - 10 cm. That is, in some places under low furniture it clearly will not work. Instead of an infrared limiter, magnetic tape is used to distribute work areas.

The package includes a regular European plug (along with a "UK" plug). Automation allows Botvac to confidently navigate the room. Even when avoiding obstructed areas, the device will not experience problems. It is easy enough to free the dust container from dirt, as well as remove hair from the petal brushes. The device has good cross-country ability, sometimes the relatively quiet "economical" mode is beneficial.

Even the fact that the menu is not translated into Russian should not darken the impression of the owner of the robot. The fact is that one charge is enough to clean at least 100 sq. m. If the vacuum cleaner works with partial recharges, it will be able to leave for cleaning 2 or 3 times in a row. The device presented by the Korean concern also deserves attention. Samsung - Model Powerbot VR20H9050UW... Its dimensions are 37.8x36.2x13.5 cm, and its total weight is 4.8 kg.

Driving across the floor at a speed of up to 20 meters per minute, the device after an hour of autonomous operation will have to replenish the battery charge for at least 135 minutes. But it is very easy to remove and clean the container. The designers of a number of other "elite" modifications somehow did not think about such a moment.

The card is not only used by the vacuum cleaner itself, but is also transferred to the application on the phone. Therefore, it will be very easy to track the location of the device and understand what it is doing right now. A useful option for some people will also be control through a light pointer. If the sound signals are annoying or for some reason inconvenient (for example, at night), it is easy to turn them off. However, one must remember about the weaknesses of the model, for example:

• high price;
• the ability to return to cleaning from the previous place only once;
• blocking by the algorithm of entering narrow places even where there seems to be enough space.

Before proceeding to an overview of this segment, you need to thoroughly understand: why are robotic vacuum cleaners better than vertical wireless models. Here it is worth focusing on specific conditions. So, if the floors are paved with hard surfaces, it is advisable to choose the "smart" option.But where there are a lot of carpets, especially with high pile, a handheld vacuum cleaner is definitely the best choice. The cost of high-quality manual and medium-sized automatic vacuum cleaners is approximately the same, so it is important to consider these nuances.

As for specific models of the middle price category, then the undisputed leader will be any version from the American concern iRobot... This company mastered the production of such equipment even when others did not even plan to develop it seriously. In addition, from the very beginning, the military department acted as the customer, which sharply increased the requirements for the quality of engineering solutions, for the efficiency and practicality of vacuum cleaners. The downside of high practical characteristics is naturally a significant price.

However, it seems significant only in comparison with more budget options. If you focus on the ratio of cost and quality, then the "average" really deserve attention. Among them there are also attractive solutions with a turbo brush. Regardless of its availability, the duration of cleaning and recharging in comparison with flagships grows. This does not affect the quality of the work itself.

iRobot Roomba 650 - a bright representative of the "middle" category. With a height of 9.5 cm, its diameter is 32 cm.The total mass is 3.6 kg. Consumers note that this is one of the most successful models in the line of the American manufacturer.

The engineers managed to solve an almost impossible task - to combine intense suction and economy when working. Importantly, the robot climbs obstacles up to 2 cm high. For most of its analogues, the limit is 1.5 cm. The total capacity of the waste bin reaches 1 liter. The developers were able to provide a clear planning of cleaning for 7 days in advance with the indication of specific hours.

Not without weaknesses. So, sometimes the vacuum cleaner can chew small wires. It is difficult for him to get around narrow obstacles, for example, the legs of a chair, bed or chair. But the automation recognizes larger obstacles confidently. An interesting feature of the iRobot 650 is the paired brushes rotating towards each other.

With their help, it is possible to more effectively collect dirt than with conventional cleaning of poorly cleaned areas. Sometimes, however, the lightest vacuum cleaner is required.

A worthy candidate will be Philips FC 8776... Its weight is 1.73 kg. A clear advantage of the model is the low (6 cm) body. However, the ability to drive in even under squat furniture is somewhat devalued by the limited capacity of the cyclone (0.3 l).

But the Dutch vacuum cleaner turned out to be easy to maintain and quiet in operation. The creators managed to equip it with a wide range of programs. The continuous working time can be up to 120 minutes. Twin side brushes ensure optimum cleanliness on smooth surfaces.

Choosing between iRobot and Clever & Clean Z10, also belonging to the middle price group, will have to think very well. The second device turns out to be significantly cheaper, and its appearance is quite simple. The size of the case is the same as that of the main competitors. Having multiple driving modes is very useful. But equipping with an ultraviolet lamp, contrary to the assurances of marketers, will only lead to wasting battery power, not helping to fight harmful microbes.

The collected dirt is sent to a 0.4 liter container. An attractive feature of the vacuum cleaner is the presence of a remote control in the kit. Only those who don't do household chores every day can underestimate its importance. After all, a very light push of the buttons, requiring only a few steps during the day, takes up several minutes.Not to mention how distracting and even annoying it is at times.

Stands apart model Ariete 2711 Briciola... This robotic vacuum cleaner has a height of 9.4 cm. Despite the heavier and lower passability, this parameter was chosen by the developers quite correctly. They set a goal to create a device with a capacious cyclone filter (0.5 l) - and they achieved it. The machine is capable of operating in six different modes, without human assistance to put things in order for 90 minutes, after which it can be charged for 210 minutes.

Like a number of other latest generation models, the Briciola has 2 working brushes instead of one. It is allowed to connect the robot directly to the mains, which is very important if the docking station breaks down. But the rather noisy work interferes with considering this device ideal. Users complain that sometimes the software algorithm gets lost, as a result of which certain areas of the harvested area are ignored.

Let's see what is needed in order to correctly choose the really necessary device, and not throw money down the drain just for the delight of our guests.

All responsible consumers choose a robot vacuum cleaner only after thoroughly familiarizing themselves with its characteristics. And the most important of them is the type, that is, the task that the device will have to solve. If the machine is designed for dry cleaning only, it will be able to remove crumbs and sweep out debris. And no more. However, such limited opportunities for many people are quite sufficient, especially since such devices help to save money.

A vacuum cleaner designed for wet cleaning is quite easy to recognize. A damp napkin is fixed at the bottom of it. It will need to be cleaned and rinsed from time to time.

The machines designed for washing have two special compartments - one for clean water and the other for dirty water. After spraying the liquid, the brush runs over damp surfaces. As a result, contaminated water flows into a designated reservoir.

It is extremely important - for all its usefulness, such cleaning is not suitable for the following coatings:

• any kind of carpets;
• laminate;
• parquet and parquet boards;
• porous tiles of natural and artificial origin.

Speaking about the equipment of the vacuum cleaner, it must be borne in mind that it is more diverse than that of manual counterparts.

A typical basic kit includes:

• filters;
• boundary tapes or infrared walls;
• replaceable brushes;
• charging base;
• instructions and documentation (very important point!);
• power adapter;
• devices for cleaning the dust collector;
• sometimes navigation cubes.

This parameter is important for a vacuum cleaner of any manufacturer. Various sensors provide the necessary information to the automation. Even the cheapest cleaning robots are equipped with collision sensors. As soon as you touch any object, the control device immediately gives a detour command.

A better option is infrared emitters. They identify all obstacles and measure the distances to them in advance. Therefore, it is possible to get as close as possible to the obstacle and clean out more dirt around it, but not hit or damage anything. Differential sensors are also very useful.... They can timely detect the approach of the robot to a dangerous incline (high threshold, step).

Only a very simple vacuum cleaner is guided exclusively by the current readings of the sensors.A more rational approach is to draw up a kind of virtual map of the surrounding space. The memory capacity of modern technology is sufficient to memorize the location of all objects and contours in several rooms at once on the same floor. Obtaining information about the surrounding space requires the use of not only sensors, but also video cameras. The card vacuum cleaner is always equipped with powerful processors and uses the latest software algorithms to create it.

All this, of course, affects the cost of the finished product. Nevertheless, the price for advanced features is justified.

It also matters how the robot traces its trajectory on the map. Some models simply move in a straight line, and when an obstacle is detected, they drive back or to the side, trying to get around the obstacle. Obviously, in terms of the quality of cleaning, they can hardly be considered a worthy solution. This approach means that there will almost inevitably remain poorly cleaned areas. And the vacuum cleaner will pass through the areas that have already been processed many times.

A more difficult option involves laying the most rational route. Not a single square centimeter will be missed. But it also requires a lot of computing resources. Photographing of premises is done from the ceiling, and then, after a series of steps, it comes to doorways.

But for an apartment, house or cottage, another property of a robot vacuum cleaner is equally important. Even if the automation allows you to draw up a detailed map, often the size of some devices does not allow them to clean up in certain places. Basically, the height of the device is critical. Width and length are less critical, although they should be considered if there are narrow areas in the house. But also one should not think that a very small apparatus is always better.

It is necessary to select exactly such a technique that suits the entire amount of parameters at once. And for the owners of a house with the most open layout, this property, of course, is almost completely irrelevant.

Loud work (and this is not surprising) will not be liked by anyone. But when choosing according to this indicator, one should not forget about the suction power. The laws of physics are implacable, and engineering techniques can only weaken their manifestations, but not abolish at all. General rule: the larger the vacuum cleaner, the more powerful its motor, the stronger the sound produced.... Therefore, a very quiet device is unlikely to satisfy most people.

Moreover, not everything is so simple. The volume of the robot is also influenced by the quality of the materials and the perfection of the assembly. That is why two models of the same power in different price categories can be very different in noise intensity.

Only models of the same size and weight can be compared by this parameter. Round devices are the easiest to get into the most difficult to reach places. However, this maneuverability turns out to be difficult when cleaning corners. To guarantee passage under sofas, cabinets, etc., the robot should be no higher than 7.5 cm.

It is also important how he orients himself in space - only devices with well-drawn maps, having a maximum of sensors, will be able to choose the ideal trajectory.

The weight of the vacuum cleaner must be suitable for the physical capabilities of those who will use it. Even the most advanced automation and the most modern software packages do not always help to avoid problems. Then you have to move the device manually. In addition, it will need to be carried over high thresholds or from floor to floor. It can be difficult to do this systematically.

Coloring also cannot be considered an exclusively design moment. A completely white or very light vacuum cleaner will constantly get dirty. Any scratch on it will be perfectly visible. But the black tone is hardly suitable.

No matter how reliable, powerful and even beautiful the device is, it will not satisfy people if the dust reservoir does not work well. Dry cleaning robots are usually equipped with bags. The paper bag is discarded and the cloth bag can be replaced. The problem is that it is tedious to clean, and a little more dust gets into the outside than it seeps through the paper.

In the cyclonic system, all the entrained dirt is concentrated in a container made of special plastic. If the vacuum cleaner is designed for wet cleaning, it often uses the so-called aquafilter. The dust brought in with the air settles in a compartment filled with water. Drip circuit is used for continuous irrigation of microfiber. This solution improves the quality of cleaning. However, all models of this kind are heavier and more expensive than those designed for dry cleaning.

Only in rare cases does a robot's dust collector contain more than 2 liters of dust. In an ordinary house, where there is no heavy pollution and very large rooms, this volume is enough for 3-5 cleanings. Then you must immediately get rid of the accumulated dirt. Yes, there are technical solutions to mitigate the effects of overfilling dust collectors. But all the same, such a situation is abnormal for technology and should be stopped as soon as possible.

Here it is important to immediately clarify which tank we are talking about. In full-fledged washing models, as already mentioned, there are two of them. But there are still few such models, because automation cannot provide the same high level of safety as manual control. It is required to take into account what capacity will allow washing all the necessary space and at the same time not impairing the maneuverability of the apparatus. This is exactly the case when you need to carefully read both the reviews and the recommendations of the consultants.

In addition to these points, there are other criteria. So, it's very good if the package includes a remote control. It allows you not to search for a smartphone every time. This is especially true when waiting for an important call.

Programming the exact start date for cleaning, especially a few days in advance, is the prerogative of the most expensive models. But paying for them is justified if people are very busy. Then you will have to be distracted by the assistant only to empty the dust collector or in case of a breakdown. You shouldn't give money for a model that is not controlled over the Internet.... And it's not about some impracticality, inconvenience (although this is very important) - such control is absent only in outdated modifications released before 2018.

Pay attention to the battery as well. Nickel-metal hydride batteries are installed on the cheapest vacuum cleaners. However, the "memorization effect" causes a lot of inconvenience. Lithium-ion batteries are more practical in this regard and allow less focus on "electrical discipline". But lithium polymer batteries are the most promising; they combine the benefits of Li-Ion with zero environmental impact.

The only drawback of the most useful option is its high price. Anyway the electric capacity of the battery must not be less than 2500 mAh... If this condition is not met, the robot will "refuel" more than do its job.

As for docking stations with reservoirs, where the vacuum cleaner overloads its "load", then this is a rather dubious decision. The station is overloaded. It will require more space than usual (let's not forget about the access roads, and about the space for maneuvers). Larger containers are often difficult to clean. Some dirt may spill out past the inlet. Then it will need to be collected by hand. Finally, if something decaying, rotting (not even smelling bad) gets into the docking station, it is unlikely that it will improve the atmosphere in the house.

The best choice is deservedly considered modifications where two side brushes rake the dirt towards each other. This design almost eliminates the scattering of debris. It is even better if there is a turbo brush near the suction hole. Then the cleaning result will be higher.

Often in the documentation they write that the vacuum cleaner is equipped with a HEPA filter. But to find out if this is so, only professionals can - and then in the conditions of a service workshop, at least. You need to either rely on the assurances of the manufacturer, or not have high hopes for this moment. Some of the devices are equipped with an aroma diffuser. Whether this "fragrant" function is really needed is up to the buyer to decide.

As always, you should read the reviews. And not only on the websites of manufacturers and large retail chains. The most objective assessments are written on forums and blogs. (although there are also ordered materials). Experts advise to give preference to the products of long-known firms, rather than newcomers to the market.

A self-respecting company always sells sophisticated electrical goods with instructions translated into Russian. It is not out of place to inquire about the guarantee. All things being equal, devices that come with a virtual wall or bounding tape are more reliable. For a two-room apartment and a private house with an area of ​​50 sq. meters, it makes no sense to take a robot without navigation. He will simply wander and will not find the way to the docking station.

To use the robot vacuum cleaner correctly, you must start by carefully reading the instructions. With rare exceptions, its points are the same for any model. The differences are only related to the description of certain functions and settings, as well as the indication of compatible attachments. While modern cleaning robots are adept at avoiding obstacles, it's best not to turn your home into a robot testing ground. That is, all obviously unnecessary items must be removed, especially for small items, thin cables and hoses.

But when even such a measure does not help, an urgent need to contact the service center. You can't do anything here with your own hands.

Do not allow water to enter the robot vacuum cleaner... This requirement even applies to washing models - in them only a small part of the parts are still designed for moistening. The instructions expressly prohibit touching the working robot (with the exception of the control buttons). Pull the plug out of the socket as carefully as possible.

Do not use an automatic vacuum cleaner for cleaning corrosive and flammable substances, sharp and cutting objects, flour, cement, other powders.

IRobot Roomba is definitely one of the best home cleaning options available. Over ten years ago, the products in this series really helped to put things in order, and not just rolled on the floor to and fro. Now the motion algorithms have improved even more. The 650 version is considered the best in terms of value for money. Consumers also give good marks to Karcher products.

For dry cleaning and wet cleaning at the same time, it is worth purchasing Roomba and Scooba products. They complement each other perfectly. For daily cleaning in homes where allergy sufferers live, the Robzone Roomy Gold vacuum cleaner works well. But it is important to understand that this device is not too friendly with carpets, even if they have a short nap. And you can also safely take any robot vacuum cleaner from the ones described above - they will definitely cope with their tasks.

As for the products of other companies, it is advised to give preference here:

• Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum Cleaner;
• Polaris PVCR 0726W;
• Redmond RV-R350;
• Panda X900 Pro.

In the next video, you will find a detailed overview of the iLife V3S Pro robot vacuum cleaner.