There are literally hundreds of robot vacuum cleaners on the market, which can make it difficult to know which one works best for you. With all the features and functionalities on these smart home devices, it’s easy to get confused.
Fortunately for you, we’re here to make things easier. To get started, let’s review two of the more popular robot vacuum brands available today: Neato and Shark ION. If you’ve been searching for a new robot vacuum, there’s a good chance you’ve encountered these manufacturers.
We’ll take a look at some of the differences between Neato and Shark ION, plus review the ins and outs of these two high-quality brands. We’ll also cover some of the more popular models available for each.
When you’re done, you’ll have a better understanding of what both Neato and Shark ION automated vacuums have to offer, which will give you a solid idea of which one makes the most sense for you and your home.
Main Differences Between Neato vs Shark ION
The main differences between Neato vs Shark ION are:
- Neato boasts its trademark “D-Shaped” design, whereas Shark ION devices are typically round.
- Neato devices include ultra or high-quality filters, whereas Shark ION uses a Hepa filter
- Neato generally can return to their docks when the battery runs low, whereas Shark ION is lighter.
- Neato robot vacuums offer turbo/eco modes, whereas Shark ION robot vacuums include a max feature.
Neato
Neato is well-known for some excellent smart vacuum cleaners. These devices boast top-of-the-line features and techniques, which makes them worth the money you spend on them.
This high-quality robot vacuum manufacturer emerged in 2010 and has since made itself at home near the top of the market. For the better part of the past decade, this smart robot producer has developed some of the best selling robot vacuums available for consumers.
Design
If you see a robot vacuum cleaner with a D-shaped design, then most likely it’s a Neato. With it’s D-shaped design, a Neato vacuum cleaner can get into the corners and edges that other, round, smart vacuums can’t reach. Most Neatos also include a large brush which helps to pick up dirt as it vacuums.
Technology
Neato doesn’t sit near the top of the market for no reason. Their robot vacuums offer plenty when it comes to features and technology. Here are some of the capabilities you can expect from a Neato robot vacuum.
WiFi Support
If you need a smart vacuum that supports wifi, then take a look at the Botvac D3 Connected, D4 Connected, D5 Connected, D6 Connected, D7 Connected, or the Botvac Connected. All of these devices will connect to your wifi network.
As a result, all the models previously mentioned can be controlled by the use of your smartphone. Download the Neato app on either iOS or Android and have fun treating your robot vacuum like a remote-controlled car!
Smart Home Compatibility
The D3 Connected, D4 Connected, D5 Connect, Botvac D6, and D7 Connected are all compatible with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, the Neato Chatbot, several smartwatches, and many other smart home devices.
If you’re in the market for a device that will integrate nicely with your already current smart home setup, then you should take a long look at one of the Neato robot vacuums we mentioned.
Vacuuming Technology
Not only do Neato robot vacuums offer strong suction, but you’ll also get a combination brush which helps to pick up dirt and debris scattered throughout your floors. As a result, you get a thorough clean whenever your Neato vacuum runs.
The technology used to get your floors looking better than ever before if called SpinFlow. Neato’s newer models, like the D4 Connected, D5 Connected, D6 Connected, D7 Connected, and Botvac Connect, all have this technology. These models also include Eco and Turbo modes.
So, if you want to get the maximum amount of suction possible out of your robot vacuum, turn on the Turbo mode. Or, if you’re at home, but your floors need to be vacuumed, turn on the Eco mode for a quieter cycle.
Navigation
To create an accurate map of your floorplan, Neato robot vacuums use infrared lasers to scan their surroundings. Once it has the necessary information, your robot then plans out the most efficient path for cleaning your home. Therefore, you’re getting thoroughly clean floors from a vacuum that won’t miss a spot.
You’ll get this technology in the latest models of the Botvac Connected robot vacuums. With the Neato mobile app on your smartphone, you can see exactly where your device has already cleaned, along with a summary and statistics as well.
Filtration
If you’re worried about filtration with your robot vacuum, Neato uses a high-performance, anti-allergen system sure to keep your home clean. Many of the Neato robot vacuums currently available use ultra-performance filtration, which can catch particles down to the tiniest microns. That means you’ll get a home that dust and dirt free, even if you have pets wandering around.
Brushes
You’ll get the following brushes with your Neato robot vacuum: a side brush, a combo brush, a blade brush, and a spiral combo brush. The brushes on the vacuum are designed to gather debris, dust, dirt, and hair from your carpets and other types of flooring.
For example, the side brush is used to get into the deeper corners of your home and right up against the wall. Combined with the suction provided by the vacuum, these cleaning brushes ensure that you’re getting the maximum cleaning possible.
Recharge and Resume
All current Neato robot vacuum models offer recharge and resume capabilities. That means the device will return to its charging dock when its battery begins to get low. However, when it has enough juice to resume the cleaning, it will pick up right where it left off.
Floor Types
When it comes to floor types, Neato robot vacuums do not discriminate. They will clean hardwood, carpet, vinyl, tile, and anything in between. However, Neato vacuums do have a little trouble cleaning high-pile carpets, so if those are prevalent throughout your home, a smart vacuum may not be what you need.
Scheduling
No matter what you’re doing or where you’re going, you can set up a schedule for your Neato robot vacuum. You can set it to clean at any specific time throughout the week, or you can use your app with newer models to kick off a cleaning cycle while you’re at work or away on vacation.
Boundaries
Neato makes use of boundary markets to keep your robot vacuum from going into an area that you don’t want to be cleaned. These are magnetic strips that you can cut to fit into doorways or areas where you don’t want your robot vacuum cleaner going.
You can also use a feature Neato calls “No-Go Lines.” These are virtual walls you create in the smartphone app just by drawing them on your floor plan. When you create these lines, your robot vacuum will not cross them.
Control
You can control the D3 Connected, D4 Connected, D5 Connected, D6 Connected, D7 Connected, and the Botvac Connected through either voice control, if you have a smart assistant, or from your smartphone app.
So if you want to kick off a cleaning cycle, just tell Google, and your Neato robot vacuum will get going.
Current Neato Models
Here is a high-level review of some of the current models available with Neato:
Neato Botvac Connected
More and more home devices are touting wifi connectivity, thereby making them “smart.” The Neato Botvac fits in this category. All you need to do it connect the robot vacuum to your wireless network, then use the Neato smartphone app to control all your cleanings, set up a scheduled clean, create boundaries, and spot clean.
Even though this offering from Neato is the most expensive option, it also has the most features and capabilities. For instance, the Botvac Connected can clean nearly 5,000 on one charge, which is 500 more than the next best Neato option.
You’ll also get a coverage map, telling you where your robot vacuum has cleaned, along with a cleaning summary. Plus, you can manually control the Botvac Connected with your smartphone to get into the nooks and crannies of your home.
The Botvac Connected also has a high-capacity lithium-ion battery, boundary markers, turbo/eco cleaning options, and an ultra-performing filter. It will work with your Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Neato’s Chatbot.
Pros:
- Includes high-performing, high-quality filter
- Can clean nearly 5,000 square feet on one cleaning cycle
- Offers a cleaning summary along with a map of where the vacuum has cleaned
Cons:
- One of the priciest models on the market
- Is known to drop wifi connectivity sporadically
Neato Botvac D3 Connected
The Botvac D3 Connected is Neato’s entry-level offering for its connected devices. You’ll get all the basics, including navigation, mapping, recharge and resume, and wifi connectivity. Along with wifi, the smart robot will interact with Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and the Neato Chatbot.
You’ll also get a standard filter and a combo brush with this basic robot vacuum, which makes it a great choice for those just wanting to have a simple and straightforward device. It’ll clean roughly 1,800 square feet on a single charge, and comes with a lithium-ion battery that will run for about an hour.
Pros:
- Affordable smart vacuum perfect for beginners
- Easily schedule cleaning cycles
- Great suction means clean floors
Cons:
- Battery only lasts for an hour
- Periodically gets stuck
- Wifi occasionally drops
Neato Botvac D4 Connected
No products found.The Botvac D4 is one of the newer models in the Neato lineup. It offers top-notch features like voice commands, cleaning maps, virtual boundaries, and navigation. The D4 also has wifi support, voice assistant compatibility, and supports Neato’s smartphone app.
Its single charge lasts for a little over an hour and will clean roughly 900 square feet. This makes the D4 an excellent option if you live in a smaller home or an apartment. This mid-range robot vacuum also offers recharge and resume, plus all the features users have come to love with Neato Botvac robot vacuums.
Pros:
- Voice command capabilities with Amazon Alexa and Google Home
- Create virtual walls through Neato’s smartphone app
- High-quality navigation technology
- Recharge and resume functionality
Cons:
- Battery life could be longer
- Noisier than other models in the Neato lineup
How does the Botvac D4 Connected compare to Shark Ion Robot 750? Find out here!
Neato Botvac D5 Connected
One of the best mid-range robot vacuums on the markets is the Neato Botvac D5 Connected. If you need something that offers a little more power than the Botvac D3 Connected but don’t mind giving up a few features, the Botvac D5 Connected is a solid option.
You’ll get an excellent filter with the Botvac D5 Connected, which is perfect if you have pets in your home. This robot vacuum has an excellent lithium-ion battery which can easily handle up to 4,500 square feet. Plus, if you lose your robot while it’s cleaning, it has a nifty “Find Me” feature that helps you track it down.
The Botvac D5 Connected also offers wifi support, so it will work easily with your Google Home or Amazon Alexa. It will also work with the Neato Chatbot and IFTTT.
Pros:
- Handles up to 4,500 square feet on a single charge
- High-quality performance filter
- “Find Me” feature helps you find your vacuum if it gets stuck or lost while cleaning
Cons:
- Cover for laser navigation occasionally hangs on lower sitting furniture
- Drops wifi connectivity every once in a while
How does the Botvac D5 Connected compare to Roomba models?
Neato Botvac D7 Connected
Arguably one of the most powerful robot vacuums in the Neato Botvac lineup, the D7 Connected has all the features you could want in a smart vacuum. It has incredible suction power, an ultra-performing filter, and excellent wifi connectivity.
You can start a cleaning cycle from anywhere with your Neato smartphone app, which means you’ll always have clean floors in your home. The battery will last for a full two hours, and if that’s not enough time to get the job done, it will return to its dock and recharge.
Pros:
- Can clean in the dark
- Supports both 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz wifi channels
- Two-hour runtime
- Create virtual “No-Go” lines with the smartphone app
- View cleaning summary and coverage maps
Cons:
- High price tag
- Noisier than other Neato models
How does the Botvac D7 Connected compare to Roomba models?
Shark ION
The current lineup of Shark ION devices consists of five automated vacuums. However, more are in the pipeline, so keep your eyes out for those. Current devices offer a wide range of features and capabilities, but they are all developed by a manufacturer that has been in the vacuum business for a while.
Let’s look closer at the features and technologies the Shark ION series has to offer.
Brand
Shark has been in the vacuum industry since 1998, developing and building vacuum cleaners of all types. These include canisters, sticks, handhelds, uprights, and now smart vacuums. With twenty years in the industry, it’s safe to say the company is familiar with anything related to vacuums.
This Canadian company boasts itself as a producer of household appliances that help busy people clean their homes. Shark markets itself as an innovator on the cutting edge of the industry, specifically catering to those who don’t have much spare time.
Design
Shark ION smart robot vacuums are easy to spot as they have similar designs throughout the lineup. Every model comes in a circle-shape, and the dimensions on the devices don’t vary much from robot to robot.
For instance, two of the more popular models, the R72 and the R75, both measure in at 12.6 inches wide by 12.4 inches long. Both devices are all 3.5 inches tall. Users will also notice that the R85 and S87 are also the same dimensions, checking in a 12.8 inches long, 12.5 inches wide, and 3.4 inches tall.
Another popular Shark ION model is the 750. While it is similar to other options, measuring at 12.6 inches wide by 12.6 inches long, it differentiates itself in its height. The 750 is only 2.6 inches tall, which means it is much more efficient at sliding under low sitting furniture.
Shark ION robots are black and sleek and come with three buttons along their tops. These include a button to kick off a cleaning cycle, a Max cleaning mode button, and a button that sends your Shark ION back to its dock.
Technology
Shark ION smart robots have plenty to offer in the way of technology. Each automated device has a specific set of features, which can dramatically impact the functionality and price point on some of these robot vacuums.
WiFi Support
Most of the robot vacuums in the Shark ION family support wifi functionality. Only the R72 doesn’t include wifi, which means that you cannot connect this robot vacuum to your home or control it via the Shark ION mobile app. You also won’t have the ability to check on its progress when you’re away at work or on vacation.
Fortunately, the R72 is the exception and not the rule. With all other Shark ION robot vacuums, you can connect to your wifi network. That means you can program, control, and check on your robot vacuum right from your smartphone.
Smart Home Compatibility
You can also connect to smart home devices when your robot vacuum supports wifi. Shark ION robot vacuums can integrate with your Google Home or Amazon Alexa smart assistants. That means you can tell your vacuum to start or stop a cycle without pulling out your smartphone.
Vacuuming Technology
If you like the vacuuming technologies you get with Botvac Connected devices, then Shark ION robot vacuums may not be for you. You won’t find options like turbo or eco mode with these devices. There is, however, a Max mode, which creates additional suction power for big messes.
Of course, if you use Max mode regularly, then you’re going to drain the battery faster. This means you’ll have to tell your robot vacuum to return to its dock so it can recharge more often than you normally would.
However, Shark ION devices do offer dual-side brushes, which capture dirt and dust in hard to clean areas. This is great for cleaning under cabinets, in the corners, or along edges. Plus, a self-cleaning brush roll means you don’t have to mess with maintaining your brushes as much as you do with other robot vacuums.
Navigation
Some of the more advanced offerings from Shark ION include Navigation 2.0. This navigation feature provides advanced sensitivity, which allows the robot vacuum to move throughout your home better than ever, avoiding obstacles as it goes.
Other robot vacuums in the Shark ION lineup include Smart Sensor Navigation. This technology allows your automated vacuum to assess its surroundings, avoid bumping into obstructions, and easily move around furniture as it cleans.
The drawback here is that Shark ION simply does not offer a true learning and mapping technology. Compared with other robot vacuums on the market, Shark ION is lagging behind in the navigation department.
Filtration
You’ll get fairly basic filters with your Shark ION robot vacuums. They’re included with your device plus, Shark throws an extra one into your box. However, the filters that come with the robot vacuum are not ULPA or HEPA certified filters. So if you have a pet or allergies, they don’t provide any advanced filtration.
Brushes
Brushes are an important part of any robot vacuum, and the Shark ION options are similar to others on the market. You’ll get a self-cleaning brush that helps to reduce the amount of maintenance you need to perform.
It also comes with a dual-sided brush, which scoops debris and dirt out of tight corners and other hard to reach areas.
With their circular shape, Shark ION robot vacuums use their brushes to move throughout your home, cleaning edges and corners, while also keeping a low profile. This helps to ensure that every inch of your flooring gets the attention it deserves.
Recharge and Resume
Due to its lack of solid navigation technology, the Shark ION devices do not have the ability to recharge and resume as needed. If the robot vacuum determines that its battery is getting low, it will head to the dock to recharge. However, when it’s done, it won’t go back to where it was beforehand.
Without navigation, Shark ION devices simply don’t have any idea where to pick up. However, without this type of functionality, Shark ION robot vacuums are significantly lower in price than their competitors. Plus, if you have a small home or an apartment, this feature isn’t really a must-have.
Floor Types
No matter what types of flooring you have, Shark ION robot vacuums will get them clean. When you enable the Max cleaning functionality you’re getting three times the suction power as you would in normal mode.
Additionally, in Max mode, the Shark ION devices will work on tough spills and deep pile carpets. These devices are designed specifically to handle moving from carpet to bare floors and back without missing a beat.
Scheduling
So long as you select a Shark ION option that includes wifi functionality, you can use the scheduling features included with the smartphone application. This allows you to create a schedule that works best with your lifestyle.
You also can control your robot vacuum remotely via the mobile app if you need to perform a quick clean before guests arrive, or just can’t wait until the next scheduled cleaning.
Boundaries
Unfortunately, you can’t program or create boundaries in the Shark ION mobile app like you can with some other manufacturers. However, the Shark ION robot vacuums do come with boundary strips, so you can keep your vacuums from going into areas where you don’t want them.
One thing that’s nice about using boundary strips is that you can place them under carpet or rugs, that way they aren’t in plain sight. The vacuum will still recognize it as a boundary and your guests don’t have to look at ugly strips lying around your home.
Controls
Each Shark ION model includes three buttons located on its top. These buttons allow you to start a cleaning cycle, begin Max cleaning, or send the unit back to its dock. If you choose a model with wifi, you can use voice commands to control your robot vacuum.
If you want to use voice controls with your Shark ION robot vacuum, you can do so through either your Google Home or your Amazon Alexa. With voice commands, you can tell your device to start a cleaning cycle, stop cleaning, or head back to its dock.
You can also control your robot vacuum with your smartphone app. With this functionality, you can kick off a cleaning cycle no matter where you are. With the Shark ION app, you’ll have all the same functionality as you do with voice controls. Plus, you can change the settings or set a cleaning schedule as well.
Dustbin
It’s easy to empty out your Shark ION dustbin when it gets full. All you have to do is access it on the side of the device, then detach it. It slides out so you can empty it and not have a big mess on your hands.
Battery
Every Shark ION model has a lithium-ion battery so you’ll get longer cleaning cycles. However, remember that when you put your unit on Max mode, the battery isn’t going to last as long as it would otherwise.
You’ll usually get about an hour out of your Shark ION battery before it has to return to its dock. That makes these robot vacuums perfect if you live in an apartment or small house.
Shark ION batteries require up to three hours to fully recharge, which seems a bit extreme given that you’re only getting an hour of runtime. But if you have a small area to clean, you shouldn’t have any trouble.
Current Models
Here are some of the current models available in the Shark ION lineup:
Shark ION R72
One of the most basic options available in the Shark ION lineup, the R72 includes a remote that allows you to control the unit without the need to get up. This robot vacuum also includes a spot clean mode, which is only available on one other Shark ION model.
Pros
- Comes with a remote control
- Mode for spot cleaning available
Cons
- No mapping capabilities
- Does not support wifi
- Battery life is shorter than other robot vacuums
- Unable to recharge and resume cleaning
Shark ION 750
Shark ION 750 is one of the most feature-packed models available. You’ll get smart home capabilities, wifi connectivity, spot clean mode, and the Shark ION smartphone mobile app. These and other features make the Shark ION 750 a great value.
Pros
- Spot clean mode available
- Support wifi connectivity
- Voice commands available with Google Home or Amazon Alexa
- Android and iOS smartphone app
Cons
- Limited mapping capabilities
- Basic navigation support
- Battery life is shorter than other robot vacuums
- Unable to recharge and resume cleaning cycle
Shark Ion R75
The R75 is one of the many Shark ION units that support wifi, so you can set up cleanings and control your vacuum right from your smartphone. You can also connect the device to your wireless network and control it via voice commands through your Google Home or Amazon Alexa.
Pros
- Supports wifi
- Android and iOS smartphone app available
- Voice commands available with smart home assistants like Amazon Alexa or Google Home
Cons
- Only supports basic navigation features
- Unable to recharge and resume
- Battery only lasts an hour
Shark ION R85
This robot vacuum in the Shark ION lineup is similar to the R72, however, this offering comes with updated Navigation features. This means you’ll get excellent value with the R85 that you won’t get with other Shark ION robot vacuums. The R85 also has wifi functionality, so you can easily use your robot vacuum, even when you’re away from home.
Pros
- Wifi functionality
- Updated Navigation 2.0
- Smartphone app support
- Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home for voice control capabilities
Cons
- Unable to recharge and resume
- Battery only lasts for 60 minutes
- Poor mapping capabilities
Shark ION S87
The S87 is easily the most expensive Shark ION robot vacuum on the market. As a result, it offers all the features available with the Shark ION lineup. Plus, it also includes a built-in handheld vacuum.
The handheld is perfect for any cleaning you want to do above the floor. For example, it can handle upholstery, pet beds, curtains, stairs, and other places where your Shark ION robot vacuum can’t reach.
Pros
- Wifi support
- iOS and Android smartphone app
- Control with voice commands through Amazon Alexa and Google Home
- Built-in handheld vacuum
- Navigation 2.0 support
Cons
- Does not support mapping
- Cannot resume cleaning cycle after recharging
- Battery only lasts for an hour
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can Neato clean multiple rooms?
The Neato Robot can easily move between rooms, so you don’t have to worry about moving the robot when it finished a room. It’s amazing technology will charge itself when the battery is running low.
Is the Shark ION robot good for pet hair?
Most of Shark ION robots can deal with per hair in carpets, floors and other surfaces. With two rotating sweepers on either side of the front, it captures pet hair and other small debris.
How many square feet can Neato clean?
In a cleaning mission (divided by three different cleaning cycles) the Neato can clean from 2000 to 2200 square feet. Between each mission, the robot recharges itself twice.
Conclusion
It’s evident that there are several differences between the Neato Botvac and Shark ION robot vacuums. This includes both features and technology. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, as your robot vacuum needs will vary based on your lifestyle and type of home. Both the Neato Botvac and Shark ION robot vacuums can address those needs.
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