Robotic vacuums are relatively new in home cleaning technology. The idea is simple: use the latest technology to make vacuuming easy and effortless. These compact vacuum cleaners will automatically run when told or can be set on a timer. While robotic vacuums are an excellent addition to the household, some issues with accuracy and durability are apparent in certain devices. With that in mind, here are our picks for the best robotic vacuum overall, representing the best combination of performance, value, and features.
For those too busy (or lazy) to spend time vacuuming, this is the perfect alternative to an upright vacuum. The Roomba 560 quickly learns the dimensions of your room and avoids being caught on rug ends or floor changes. It is very quiet and can be operated unattended with a convenient scheduling feature, though it may sometimes have difficulty finding its way back to the dock on its own. This robotic vacuum's small footprint helps it get under furniture and beds where dirt and dust has been building up. Users may find fault in the relatively brittle side brushes, but if you ever have a problem, iRobot sends replacements free of charge.
The Roomba 530 performs similarly to the more expensive 560 model, but lacks on-board scheduling and Lighthouse Technology. If you live in a smaller home and don’t require the added convenience of automatic scheduling, the iRobot 530 is an excellent alternative. It’s easy to use, effective on floors and carpet, picks up pet hair, and avoids being caught up on rug ends or floor changes. It also includes a self-charging base station, which is very useful. 2 Virtual Walls are included to prevent the iRobot from entering off-limit areas of your home. Pet owners should consider the Roomba 532, which includes extra accessories to help tackle cat hair and other messes.
The entry-level Roomba 410 lacks many of the convenient features found on the 500 series such as on-board scheduling and a self-charging base station, but its affordability and ease of use still make it a great choice for buyers on a budget. It effectively cleans both carpets and floors, but is ideally used in smaller homes and apartments. Just keep in mind that it can get caught up on cords and rug edges, as it lacks the anti-tangle technology found on the iRobot 530 / 560.