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How to Find the Right Robot Vacuum

Last updated: by Patrick Sinclair

Robot vacuums are intelligent cleaning devices that are getting smarter and more advanced every day. With the help of these fantastic tools, you no longer have to worry about the mundane and time-consuming task of vacuuming your home.

Nearly everyone will be in agreement that cleaning your home is one of those chores that you could do without. With your robot vacuum patrolling your home, you no longer have to worry about debris and dust. While robot vacuums do pretty much the same fundamental tasks, the features and functions between the various models can differ.

There is no shortage of robot vacuums from which you can choose, however, your best option is really going to depend on your needs. Perhaps one of the most important things to consider with your robot vacuum is precisely what you’re looking for in terms of an automated cleaning device.

Where to Start?

Robot vacuums come in different shapes, sizes, and prices. They also have a wide variety of features that you may or may not want or need. With that in mind, let’s take a look at some of the more important features you might want to consider prior to purchasing your robot vacuum.

Size

One of the most important things to consider before purchasing a robot vacuum is its size. Most vacuums range in diameter from 9.5 to 14 inches, however, this is not the most important dimension on your robot. Height is more of a factor since you’ll want your robot vacuum to fit under low sitting furniture. If your robot vacuum is too tall, you’ll have to clean manually or resign yourself to the fact that certain areas may not be cleaned.

Navigation

Even if your robot vacuum does a great job cleaning, you’ll want it to come equipped with navigation technology. When it comes to this type of functionality, Roomba leads the way. These robot vacuums use “virtual walls” to create boundaries which tell them areas that need cleaning. If you don’t want to deal with the hassle of lost or stuck robot vacuums, select one with superior navigation capabilities.

Charging

Many robot vacuums come with the ability to return to its charging station when its battery is low. You’ll want to have this feature so you don’t have to look for your robot vacuum if it runs out of juice. Find a robot vacuum that won’t have issues with making the venture back to its dock when its time to recharge.

Remote Control

If your robot vacuum comes with a remote, it makes things easier on you. Many have the ability to be controlled via your smartphone application, which means you don’t have to get up to start or stop a cleaning cycle. This also means you can set your robot vacuum to cleaning after you’ve left home, that way you don’t have to listen to it as it goes about its chore.

Suction

There are several robot vacuums on the market that offer strong suction capability, like the Dyson 360 Eye and the Samsung PowerBot. Improvements are constantly being made by robot vacuum manufacturers like Botvac and Roomba, however, the goal is to get a suction as strong as that of tradition uprights.

Smart Home Integration

The idea of owning a smart device is to have the ability to communicate with other smart devices. Unfortunately, robot vacuums are laggards in this category, and the ability to control one from a central hub is still in the works. There are a few options that will obey voice commands via Alexa or Google, like the Roomba i7+, Roomba 980, Samsung PowerBot, and Botvac Connected.

Affordability

As robot vacuums become more prevalent their affordability begins to drop, making them more accessible to everyone. iLife leads the way in making devices that are at a price anyone can afford. These robot vacuums offer many of the same features as the big players in the industry while not sacrificing performance.

What Do You Need?

So how do you know which type of robot vacuum is right for you? You’ll most likely know based on the needs of your home. Do you have hardwood floors? Do you have dogs or cats?  Here are some examples of robot vacuums you might find most useful in your home.

Hardwood Floors

If your home is primarily hardwood floors, then you’re going to want a robot vacuum that gives you the best value you for your money. However, if you’re less concerned with money and more interested in getting the best robot vacuum for your hardwood floors, you might consider the Neato Botvac D5, the Roomba 890, or the bObi Classic.

Tiled Floors

Just like with hardwood floors, you want a robot that’s going to give you a thorough clean if your home has tiles or tile flooring. There are plenty of options from which to choose, however, if you want to go with the best of the best, you should take a look at the Neato Botvac Connected, Ecovacs Deebot N78, Roomba 650, or the iLife A4S.

Carpet Floors

When it comes to carpeted floors, you’ll want a robot vacuum with additional power. This is especially true if you have high-pile carpeting in your home. A robot vacuum with carpet cleaning in mind will be sure to capture and clean dust and allergens that become trapped in the fabric. If you’re looking for a quality robot vacuum for your carpets, see the Roomba e5, Ecovacs Deebot N79, Roomba 980, RoboVac 11, or the Neato Botvac Connected.

Dander and Pet Hair

Nearly all robot vacuums suggest they are pet-friendly, however the best devices for pets will have the best suction. This means your home will be free of not only pet hair, but pet dander as well. If you have pets and want a robot vacuum that will thoroughly clean your home, the Dyson 360 Eye might be the right one for you.

Dust

Dust and allergens are prevalent in our homes today. This is especially true if you have a lot of carpeting in your home, which tends to trap these types of particles. That doesn’t mean you don’t want a robot vacuum that works on hardwood or tile as well. If you’re looking for a robot vacuum that will work well against dust and allergens, there’s the Roomba 980, Roomba 890, or the iLife V3S.

Additional Options

Of course, you may prefer to simply purchase the highest-rated robot vacuum available. If that is the case, take a look at our guide to the best robot vacuums. Take a moment to consider just what you need for your home and use our guide to determine the best robot vacuum for you.

Years ago, robots were a thing to be dreamed of. Today they are a reality. They are quickly becoming mainstays in homes around the world. Yet, they are still pricey acquisitions. Decisions should not be taken lightly. Find out here all you need to know about the latest and best robotic vacuums on the market!

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