The 10 Best Robot Vacuums, Tested in Real Homes

Mar. 15, 2025

In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?

In This ArticleView All

In This Article

View All

Our Top Picks

Reviews

What to Know

Behind the Scenes

Why Trust PEOPLE?

What Is PEOPLE Tested?

Photo:People / Dera Burreson

People / Dera Burreson

The best robot vacuums have come a long way in recent years. While they used to be a bit hectic in their cleaning, today’s top models vacuum your floors methodically, mapping out the room, detecting dirt, avoiding obstacles, and emptying their own dustbins. Some even have suction power that’s comparable to full-sizevacuum cleaners.To help you find the very best robot vacuum for your home, we’ve tested more than 50 top-rated models over the past two years, evaluating them on cleaning performance, navigation, noise level, and value. No matter your budget, you’re sure to find a cleaning tool that will suit your needs among our following picks.Our Top PicksBest Overall:iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum at Walmart$311Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum at Amazon$160$119Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Hair:SALEEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S Max at Amazon$250$170Jump to ReviewBest Vacuum-Mop Combo:ECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop at Amazon$800Jump to ReviewBest for Carpet:iRobot Roomba J7 Robot Vacuum at Amazon$620Jump to ReviewBest Navigation:Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop at Target$700Jump to ReviewBest Mapping:Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,199Jump to ReviewBest Self-Emptying:ECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and Mop at Ecovacs.comJump to ReviewBest Value:Black + Decker RoboSeries Robot Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest Investment:SALERoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,600$1,000Jump to Review

The best robot vacuums have come a long way in recent years. While they used to be a bit hectic in their cleaning, today’s top models vacuum your floors methodically, mapping out the room, detecting dirt, avoiding obstacles, and emptying their own dustbins. Some even have suction power that’s comparable to full-sizevacuum cleaners.

To help you find the very best robot vacuum for your home, we’ve tested more than 50 top-rated models over the past two years, evaluating them on cleaning performance, navigation, noise level, and value. No matter your budget, you’re sure to find a cleaning tool that will suit your needs among our following picks.

Our Top PicksBest Overall:iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum at Walmart$311Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum at Amazon$160$119Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Hair:SALEEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S Max at Amazon$250$170Jump to ReviewBest Vacuum-Mop Combo:ECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop at Amazon$800Jump to ReviewBest for Carpet:iRobot Roomba J7 Robot Vacuum at Amazon$620Jump to ReviewBest Navigation:Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop at Target$700Jump to ReviewBest Mapping:Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,199Jump to ReviewBest Self-Emptying:ECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and Mop at Ecovacs.comJump to ReviewBest Value:Black + Decker RoboSeries Robot Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest Investment:SALERoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,600$1,000Jump to Review

Best Overall:iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum at Walmart$311Jump to ReviewBest Budget:SALEILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum at Amazon$160$119Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Hair:SALEEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S Max at Amazon$250$170Jump to ReviewBest Vacuum-Mop Combo:ECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop at Amazon$800Jump to ReviewBest for Carpet:iRobot Roomba J7 Robot Vacuum at Amazon$620Jump to ReviewBest Navigation:Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop at Target$700Jump to ReviewBest Mapping:Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,199Jump to ReviewBest Self-Emptying:ECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and Mop at Ecovacs.comJump to ReviewBest Value:Black + Decker RoboSeries Robot Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest Investment:SALERoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,600$1,000Jump to Review

Best Overall:iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum at Walmart$311Jump to Review

Best Overall:iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum at Walmart$311

Best Overall:

Best Budget:SALEILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum at Amazon$160$119Jump to Review

Best Budget:SALEILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum at Amazon$160$119

Best Budget:

SALE

Best for Pet Hair:SALEEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S Max at Amazon$250$170Jump to Review

Best for Pet Hair:SALEEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S Max at Amazon$250$170

Best for Pet Hair:

Best Vacuum-Mop Combo:ECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop at Amazon$800Jump to Review

Best Vacuum-Mop Combo:ECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop at Amazon$800

Best Vacuum-Mop Combo:

Best for Carpet:iRobot Roomba J7 Robot Vacuum at Amazon$620Jump to Review

Best for Carpet:iRobot Roomba J7 Robot Vacuum at Amazon$620

Best for Carpet:

Best Navigation:Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop at Target$700Jump to Review

Best Navigation:Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop at Target$700

Best Navigation:

Best Mapping:Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,199Jump to Review

Best Mapping:Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,199

Best Mapping:

Best Self-Emptying:ECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and Mop at Ecovacs.comJump to Review

Best Self-Emptying:ECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and Mop at Ecovacs.com

Best Self-Emptying:

Best Value:Black + Decker RoboSeries Robot Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to Review

Best Value:Black + Decker RoboSeries Robot Vacuum at Amazon$150

Best Value:

Best Investment:SALERoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,600$1,000Jump to Review

Best Investment:SALERoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum at Amazon$1,600$1,000

Best Investment:

Best OveralliRobot Roomba 694 Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$311 at Walmart$275 at Kohls.com$275 at Home DepotStar QualitiesGreat value for a RoombaQuiet during operationSuper-strong suctionManeuvers well around obstaclesRed FlagsStruggles at the edge of rugsHair wraps around brush rollNo mapping technologyThe iRobot Roomba 694 earned a perfect five out of five stars in our testing for its simplicity of setup, effectiveness on rugs and hard floors, and maneuverability. We loved how well this little vacuum navigated around the space—it moved quickly, fitting between chair legs, under tables, and around other furniture. It also picked up pet hair, human hair, and Cheerios extremely well and even sucked up an impressive amount of sand. Plus, it’s not overly loud, is easy to empty after use, and has smart technology such as voice control and app connections.While this vacuum had some trouble getting debris at the edge of the rug where it met the floor, the combined brush and vacuum technology got most dirt up on a first pass. The only inconvenience with this model is its lack of object-avoidance technology. We don’t think it’s a dealbreaker, but you will want to pick up things like toys and socks off the floor before it runs.How It’s Held UpAfter six months, this vacuum does a mighty job navigating various corners and oddly shaped walls. It expertly picks up long hair and dirt, but some hair does tend to get stuck in the brush roll. However, our tester wishes it had mapping technology because it often strays into unwanted areas and rooms.Works On:Hard floors, rugs, carpets |Special Features:App control, voice control |Object Avoidance:No |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:No |Good For:Pet fur, hair, crumbs, dirtPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel Marek

Best OveralliRobot Roomba 694 Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$311 at Walmart$275 at Kohls.com$275 at Home Depot

Best OveralliRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum

Best Overall

iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum

PHOTO: Amazon

$311 at Walmart$275 at Kohls.com$275 at Home Depot

Star QualitiesGreat value for a RoombaQuiet during operationSuper-strong suctionManeuvers well around obstaclesRed FlagsStruggles at the edge of rugsHair wraps around brush rollNo mapping technology

Star QualitiesGreat value for a RoombaQuiet during operationSuper-strong suctionManeuvers well around obstacles

Great value for a Roomba

Quiet during operation

Super-strong suction

Maneuvers well around obstacles

Red FlagsStruggles at the edge of rugsHair wraps around brush rollNo mapping technology

Struggles at the edge of rugs

Hair wraps around brush roll

No mapping technology

The iRobot Roomba 694 earned a perfect five out of five stars in our testing for its simplicity of setup, effectiveness on rugs and hard floors, and maneuverability. We loved how well this little vacuum navigated around the space—it moved quickly, fitting between chair legs, under tables, and around other furniture. It also picked up pet hair, human hair, and Cheerios extremely well and even sucked up an impressive amount of sand. Plus, it’s not overly loud, is easy to empty after use, and has smart technology such as voice control and app connections.

While this vacuum had some trouble getting debris at the edge of the rug where it met the floor, the combined brush and vacuum technology got most dirt up on a first pass. The only inconvenience with this model is its lack of object-avoidance technology. We don’t think it’s a dealbreaker, but you will want to pick up things like toys and socks off the floor before it runs.

How It’s Held UpAfter six months, this vacuum does a mighty job navigating various corners and oddly shaped walls. It expertly picks up long hair and dirt, but some hair does tend to get stuck in the brush roll. However, our tester wishes it had mapping technology because it often strays into unwanted areas and rooms.

How It’s Held Up

After six months, this vacuum does a mighty job navigating various corners and oddly shaped walls. It expertly picks up long hair and dirt, but some hair does tend to get stuck in the brush roll. However, our tester wishes it had mapping technology because it often strays into unwanted areas and rooms.

Works On:Hard floors, rugs, carpets |Special Features:App control, voice control |Object Avoidance:No |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:No |Good For:Pet fur, hair, crumbs, dirt

PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel MarekPHOTO: People / Rachel Marek

Best BudgetILife V3s Pro Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$160$119 at AmazonView on Walmart

Best BudgetILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum

Best Budget

ILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum

$160$119 at AmazonView on Walmart

Star QualitiesQuick and easy setupManeuvers well around obstaclesIncludes remote controlQuiet during useRed FlagsStruggles in cornersNo smart features

Star QualitiesQuick and easy setupManeuvers well around obstaclesIncludes remote controlQuiet during use

Quick and easy setup

Includes remote control

Quiet during use

Red FlagsStruggles in cornersNo smart features

Struggles in corners

No smart features

This vacuum had trouble grabbing Cheerios from corners during testing, but that was the only hitch in its effectiveness. Though there aren’t any smart features with this model, we think it is a great value and would be a good starter robot vacuum.

How It’s Held UpSix months after using this robot vacuum in our tester’s home, we can say that it’s still highly effective at picking up everyday messes, like stray kibble around thedog food container. Though it doesn’t plot routes, which could be a con for some folks, it does an excellent job cleaning the space it’s in.

Six months after using this robot vacuum in our tester’s home, we can say that it’s still highly effective at picking up everyday messes, like stray kibble around thedog food container. Though it doesn’t plot routes, which could be a con for some folks, it does an excellent job cleaning the space it’s in.

Works On:Hard surfaces, carpet |Special Features:Remote control |Object Avoidance:No |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Pet hair, dirt, other debris

PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: PEOPLE / Henry WortockPHOTO: PEOPLE / Henry Wortock

Best for Pet HairEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MaxPHOTO: Amazon$250$170 at Amazon$200 at WalmartView on Eufy.comStar QualitiesHighly effective on pet hairEdge-cleaning functionHair doesn’t tangle around brushrollRed FlagsLimited scheduling optionsForpet owners, the Eufy RoboVac 11S Max proved to be highly effective at picking up hair from both hard floors and carpeting. This model doesn’t have any smart features — instead, you control it via remote. It moves smoothly from hard floors to carpet, automatically increasing suction as needed, and its low-profile design fits nicely under our sofa for more thorough cleaning.Pet owners will likely appreciate this vacuum’s edge- and spot-cleaning modes, which are ideal for tackling balls of hair, and we didn’t run into any issues with hair tangling around the brushroll. Our only complaint is that the vacuum’s scheduling abilities are limited. It can only be set to run daily — you can’t pick specific days for it to clean.Works On:Hard floors, carpets |Special Features:BoostIQ technology, anti-collision sensors  |Object Avoidance:No |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:No |Good For:Dirt, pet hair, other debrisPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee Evans

Best for Pet HairEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MaxPHOTO: Amazon$250$170 at Amazon$200 at WalmartView on Eufy.com

Best for Pet HairEufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S Max

Best for Pet Hair

Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac 11S Max

$250$170 at Amazon$200 at WalmartView on Eufy.com

Star QualitiesHighly effective on pet hairEdge-cleaning functionHair doesn’t tangle around brushrollRed FlagsLimited scheduling options

Star QualitiesHighly effective on pet hairEdge-cleaning functionHair doesn’t tangle around brushroll

Highly effective on pet hair

Edge-cleaning function

Hair doesn’t tangle around brushroll

Red FlagsLimited scheduling options

Limited scheduling options

Forpet owners, the Eufy RoboVac 11S Max proved to be highly effective at picking up hair from both hard floors and carpeting. This model doesn’t have any smart features — instead, you control it via remote. It moves smoothly from hard floors to carpet, automatically increasing suction as needed, and its low-profile design fits nicely under our sofa for more thorough cleaning.

Pet owners will likely appreciate this vacuum’s edge- and spot-cleaning modes, which are ideal for tackling balls of hair, and we didn’t run into any issues with hair tangling around the brushroll. Our only complaint is that the vacuum’s scheduling abilities are limited. It can only be set to run daily — you can’t pick specific days for it to clean.

Works On:Hard floors, carpets |Special Features:BoostIQ technology, anti-collision sensors  |Object Avoidance:No |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:No |Good For:Dirt, pet hair, other debris

PHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee EvansPHOTO: People / Julee Evans

Best Vacuum-Mop ComboECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and MopPHOTO: Amazon$800 at Amazon

Best Vacuum-Mop ComboECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop

Best Vacuum-Mop Combo

ECOVACS DEEBOT T9+ Robot Vacuum and Mop

$800 at Amazon

Star QualitiesSelf-emptying designWorks well on all floor typesQuick setupMop feature with disposable padsSolid object avoidanceRed FlagsLong mapping process

Star QualitiesSelf-emptying designWorks well on all floor typesQuick setupMop feature with disposable padsSolid object avoidance

Self-emptying design

Works well on all floor types

Quick setup

Mop feature with disposable pads

Solid object avoidance

Red FlagsLong mapping process

Long mapping process

This robot empties itself after each run, and we loved the scheduling capabilities that allowed us to clean specific areas of the home. It’s also super quiet; we can use it during the day while we work without it being a nuisance.

How It’s Held UpAfter six months of additional testing, the battery life remained just as strong as the day we opened the package, but we did need to replace the unit’s brush and filter. We also noticed that while it does a great job on dust and debris, it’s not the best for picking up large amounts of pet hair.

After six months of additional testing, the battery life remained just as strong as the day we opened the package, but we did need to replace the unit’s brush and filter. We also noticed that while it does a great job on dust and debris, it’s not the best for picking up large amounts of pet hair.

Works On:Hard floors, tile |Special Features:Floor mapping sensors, auto-emptying station |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:Yes |HEPA Filter:No |Good For:crumbs, sticky messes, other debris

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Best for CarpetiRobot Roomba J7 Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$620 at AmazonView on Irobot.com$599 at Home Depot

Best for CarpetiRobot Roomba J7 Robot Vacuum

Best for Carpet

iRobot Roomba J7 Robot Vacuum

$620 at AmazonView on Irobot.com$599 at Home Depot

Star QualitiesUser-friendly appEasily moves from floor to carpetGood object avoidanceRed FlagsSome difficulty while mappingApp required to access certain features

Star QualitiesUser-friendly appEasily moves from floor to carpetGood object avoidance

User-friendly app

Easily moves from floor to carpet

Good object avoidance

Red FlagsSome difficulty while mappingApp required to access certain features

Some difficulty while mapping

App required to access certain features

It can be hard to access all of the features that this Roomba provides without downloading the app — one of the main features of this model is its object-avoidance technology, and we witnessed a few messes that would have been avoided if we had used the app. We also suggest setting this vacuum in the room you want to clean, as it has some difficulty sensing new rooms and spaces.

Works On:Hard floors, carpets |Special Features:iRoomba Genius app voice-activated, three-stage cleaning system, power-lifting suction |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Dirt, pet hair, other debris

PHOTO: People / Niky Cross TaylorPHOTO: People / Niky Cross Taylor

Best NavigationShark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and MopPHOTO: Amazon$700 at TargetView on Sharkclean.com$700$500 at Kohls.comStar QualitiesGood obstacle avoidanceSelf-emptying designWorks on carpets, hardwood, and tile floorsHandy spot-cleaning featureRed FlagsSomewhat tricky to set upIf you’re in a home with multiple dogs or cats, thisShark vacuumis a top choice thanks to its two-in-one design. We used the robot vacuum on tile floors, but it also works well on carpet and hardwood flooring — in fact, we gave it a perfect score for effectiveness. We particularly loved the spot-cleaning feature, as it picked up all the dirt and mud the dogs dragged in from the backyard. The mop works in tandem with the vacuum to clean the floors after debris is removed and uses minimal water, so floors dry fast.It’s also a quiet device with solid object detection. During our tests, the vacuum didn’t run into anything, highlighting its maneuverability around chairs and tables. The vacuum also self-empties, and the mop pads are reusable and washable, which is an added (and sustainable) bonus.Works On:Tile, hardwoods, carpet |Special Features:Spot cleaning, scheduling, app, self-emptying |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:Yes |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Dirt, grass, pet hair, other debrisPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Best NavigationShark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and MopPHOTO: Amazon$700 at TargetView on Sharkclean.com$700$500 at Kohls.com

Best NavigationShark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop

Best Navigation

Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop

$700 at TargetView on Sharkclean.com$700$500 at Kohls.com

Star QualitiesGood obstacle avoidanceSelf-emptying designWorks on carpets, hardwood, and tile floorsHandy spot-cleaning featureRed FlagsSomewhat tricky to set up

Star QualitiesGood obstacle avoidanceSelf-emptying designWorks on carpets, hardwood, and tile floorsHandy spot-cleaning feature

Good obstacle avoidance

Works on carpets, hardwood, and tile floors

Handy spot-cleaning feature

Red FlagsSomewhat tricky to set up

Somewhat tricky to set up

If you’re in a home with multiple dogs or cats, thisShark vacuumis a top choice thanks to its two-in-one design. We used the robot vacuum on tile floors, but it also works well on carpet and hardwood flooring — in fact, we gave it a perfect score for effectiveness. We particularly loved the spot-cleaning feature, as it picked up all the dirt and mud the dogs dragged in from the backyard. The mop works in tandem with the vacuum to clean the floors after debris is removed and uses minimal water, so floors dry fast.

It’s also a quiet device with solid object detection. During our tests, the vacuum didn’t run into anything, highlighting its maneuverability around chairs and tables. The vacuum also self-empties, and the mop pads are reusable and washable, which is an added (and sustainable) bonus.

Works On:Tile, hardwoods, carpet |Special Features:Spot cleaning, scheduling, app, self-emptying |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:Yes |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Dirt, grass, pet hair, other debris

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Best MappingDyson 360 Vis Nav Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$1,199 at Amazon$1,200 at Target$1,200 at QVCStar QualitiesThorough mapping and scheduling optionsUser-friendly appGood navigation abilitiesRed FlagsOccasionally missed pet hairWe were impressed with Dyson’s first-ever robot vacuum, the Vis Nav. While cleaning, it easily navigated around furniture and walls (though its round shape means it missed some corners), and if it ever got stuck under an obstacle, it was able to maneuver its way out. We tested it in a home full of long dog fur, and we were impressed that it was able to suck up the majority of the hair, as well as its effectiveness on hardwood floors, tile, and low-pile rugs.You do have to set up this robot’s app before you clean, but it was quick and intuitive to do. Through the app, the robot was able to accurately map our space, and we liked that we could schedule cleanings of specific rooms. You can also set up restricted zones, so the robot will avoid certain areas.Works On:Hard floors, low-pile carpet |Special Features:App, scheduling, mapping and navigation |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Pet hair, dustPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison Yauger

Best MappingDyson 360 Vis Nav Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$1,199 at Amazon$1,200 at Target$1,200 at QVC

Best MappingDyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum

Best Mapping

Dyson 360 Vis Nav Robot Vacuum

$1,199 at Amazon$1,200 at Target$1,200 at QVC

Star QualitiesThorough mapping and scheduling optionsUser-friendly appGood navigation abilitiesRed FlagsOccasionally missed pet hair

Star QualitiesThorough mapping and scheduling optionsUser-friendly appGood navigation abilities

Thorough mapping and scheduling options

Good navigation abilities

Red FlagsOccasionally missed pet hair

Occasionally missed pet hair

We were impressed with Dyson’s first-ever robot vacuum, the Vis Nav. While cleaning, it easily navigated around furniture and walls (though its round shape means it missed some corners), and if it ever got stuck under an obstacle, it was able to maneuver its way out. We tested it in a home full of long dog fur, and we were impressed that it was able to suck up the majority of the hair, as well as its effectiveness on hardwood floors, tile, and low-pile rugs.

You do have to set up this robot’s app before you clean, but it was quick and intuitive to do. Through the app, the robot was able to accurately map our space, and we liked that we could schedule cleanings of specific rooms. You can also set up restricted zones, so the robot will avoid certain areas.

Works On:Hard floors, low-pile carpet |Special Features:App, scheduling, mapping and navigation |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:No |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Pet hair, dust

PHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison YaugerPHOTO: People / Madison Yauger

Best Self-EmptyingECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and MopPHOTO: Best BuyView on Ecovacs.com$300 at Newegg.com$950 at Macy’s

Best Self-EmptyingECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and Mop

Best Self-Emptying

ECOVACS DEEBOT T10 Plus Robotic Vacuum and Mop

PHOTO: Best Buy

View on Ecovacs.com$300 at Newegg.com$950 at Macy’s

Star QualitiesSelf-emptying designCleans in multiple passesNavigates around furniture easilyRed FlagsPricier than many other modelsNot the best on rugs

Star QualitiesSelf-emptying designCleans in multiple passesNavigates around furniture easily

Cleans in multiple passes

Navigates around furniture easily

Red FlagsPricier than many other modelsNot the best on rugs

Pricier than many other models

Not the best on rugs

It’s not fun to empty the dustbin after each use, which makes the self-emptying Ecovacs Deebot T10 Plus a huge help around the house. When its onboard bin is full, the vacuum automatically returns to its docking station to eject the debris into a hypoallergenic dust bag that automatically closes to prevent dust or other particles from getting into the air.

How It’s Held UpAt home, our tester runs this Ecovacs vacuum weekly with the mop function, and it has held up well over six months — in this time, the vacuum mastered the layout of their apartment and works even better than the day it arrived. However, they noticed that it sometimes has a hard time vacuuming rugs.

At home, our tester runs this Ecovacs vacuum weekly with the mop function, and it has held up well over six months — in this time, the vacuum mastered the layout of their apartment and works even better than the day it arrived. However, they noticed that it sometimes has a hard time vacuuming rugs.

Works On:Hard floors, carpets |Special Features:Oscillating sonic mopping system, self-emptying, hypoallergenic dust bag, front-facing camera |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:Yes |HEPA Filter:No |Good For:Dirt, pet hair, other debris

PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock

Best ValueBlack + Decker RoboSeries Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$150 at Amazon$130 at Walmart$130 at WayfairStar QualitiesEffective on all flooringEasy to schedule via the appNavigates well around obstaclesRed FlagsRequires strong Wi-Fi connectionHair tangles in brush rollBlack and Decker is known for itsreliable dustbusters, but the brand’s robot vacuum is great, too. During testing, it was highly effective at lifting dust, pet hair, stray crumbs, and dirt. It goes over the same spots a few times and gets everything up; we didn’t see any debris once it was finished. This robot vacuum is versatile on hard floors and rugs, and it reduces the time you spend cleaning since it works independently. It’s not the quietest model, though — its noise level is comparable to other standard vacuums.Some hair got tangled in the rollers, but it was easy to get out with an included tool. This Black and Decker robot vacuum also has decent object-avoidance technology — it got stuck once in the bathroom, but other than that, it maneuvered around and under furniture with ease.How It’s Held UpAfter six months, our tester has found that this robot vacuum significantly reduces the amount of time they spend cleaning. The only issue is that the brush sometimes falls off, but it’s easy to clip it back in place. Otherwise, the battery life and performance have remained consistent.Works On:Hard floors, carpet |Special Features:HEPA filtration, smart charging, multiple cleaning modes, stairs sensors |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:No |Good For:Dirt, pet hair, sand, crumbs, and morePHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Best ValueBlack + Decker RoboSeries Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$150 at Amazon$130 at Walmart$130 at Wayfair

Best ValueBlack + Decker RoboSeries Robot Vacuum

Best Value

Black + Decker RoboSeries Robot Vacuum

$150 at Amazon$130 at Walmart$130 at Wayfair

Star QualitiesEffective on all flooringEasy to schedule via the appNavigates well around obstaclesRed FlagsRequires strong Wi-Fi connectionHair tangles in brush roll

Star QualitiesEffective on all flooringEasy to schedule via the appNavigates well around obstacles

Effective on all flooring

Easy to schedule via the app

Navigates well around obstacles

Red FlagsRequires strong Wi-Fi connectionHair tangles in brush roll

Requires strong Wi-Fi connection

Hair tangles in brush roll

Black and Decker is known for itsreliable dustbusters, but the brand’s robot vacuum is great, too. During testing, it was highly effective at lifting dust, pet hair, stray crumbs, and dirt. It goes over the same spots a few times and gets everything up; we didn’t see any debris once it was finished. This robot vacuum is versatile on hard floors and rugs, and it reduces the time you spend cleaning since it works independently. It’s not the quietest model, though — its noise level is comparable to other standard vacuums.

Some hair got tangled in the rollers, but it was easy to get out with an included tool. This Black and Decker robot vacuum also has decent object-avoidance technology — it got stuck once in the bathroom, but other than that, it maneuvered around and under furniture with ease.

How It’s Held UpAfter six months, our tester has found that this robot vacuum significantly reduces the amount of time they spend cleaning. The only issue is that the brush sometimes falls off, but it’s easy to clip it back in place. Otherwise, the battery life and performance have remained consistent.

After six months, our tester has found that this robot vacuum significantly reduces the amount of time they spend cleaning. The only issue is that the brush sometimes falls off, but it’s easy to clip it back in place. Otherwise, the battery life and performance have remained consistent.

Works On:Hard floors, carpet |Special Features:HEPA filtration, smart charging, multiple cleaning modes, stairs sensors |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:No |Good For:Dirt, pet hair, sand, crumbs, and more

PHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Best InvestmentRoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$1,600$1,000 at Amazon$1,600$1,280 at Best BuyView on Roborock.comStar QualitiesWorks on all floor typesSelf-cleans, empties, and driesMultiple cleaning modesRed FlagsTime-consuming programmingDirty water tank requires regular maintenanceThe Roborock S8 Pro is expensive, but after testing it, we think its performance matches the investment. We used it on every type of flooring, and it cleaned everything from general dust and debris to food messes and spills. We also tested out its mopping capabilities, and they were highly effective at cleaning up small spills.We love that this vacuum has several cleaning modes, such as deep cleaning mode (which is quite loud but effective) and light cleaning mode (which is quieter and you can hold a conversation over). You can also set it to clean just one room or zone at a time, and the vacuum is quite nimble and fits under the couch with ease. After cleaning, it empties all debris into a bag, and the mopping feature also empties any excess water after cleaning.How It’s Held UpOur tester is absolutely in love with this vacuum. “It is no longer an addition; this is a staple product for me. It is my main cleaning routine, and I could not be happier about it," they raved. That said, the dirty water tank has to be changed every other week or once a month (depending on the frequency of use).Works On:Hard floors, carpet |Special Features:App, self-emptying, multiple cleaning modes |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:Yes |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Pet hair, dirt, dust, debrisPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson

Best InvestmentRoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$1,600$1,000 at Amazon$1,600$1,280 at Best BuyView on Roborock.com

Best InvestmentRoborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum

Best Investment

Roborock S8 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum

$1,600$1,000 at Amazon$1,600$1,280 at Best BuyView on Roborock.com

Star QualitiesWorks on all floor typesSelf-cleans, empties, and driesMultiple cleaning modesRed FlagsTime-consuming programmingDirty water tank requires regular maintenance

Star QualitiesWorks on all floor typesSelf-cleans, empties, and driesMultiple cleaning modes

Works on all floor types

Self-cleans, empties, and dries

Multiple cleaning modes

Red FlagsTime-consuming programmingDirty water tank requires regular maintenance

Time-consuming programming

Dirty water tank requires regular maintenance

The Roborock S8 Pro is expensive, but after testing it, we think its performance matches the investment. We used it on every type of flooring, and it cleaned everything from general dust and debris to food messes and spills. We also tested out its mopping capabilities, and they were highly effective at cleaning up small spills.

We love that this vacuum has several cleaning modes, such as deep cleaning mode (which is quite loud but effective) and light cleaning mode (which is quieter and you can hold a conversation over). You can also set it to clean just one room or zone at a time, and the vacuum is quite nimble and fits under the couch with ease. After cleaning, it empties all debris into a bag, and the mopping feature also empties any excess water after cleaning.

How It’s Held UpOur tester is absolutely in love with this vacuum. “It is no longer an addition; this is a staple product for me. It is my main cleaning routine, and I could not be happier about it," they raved. That said, the dirty water tank has to be changed every other week or once a month (depending on the frequency of use).

Our tester is absolutely in love with this vacuum. “It is no longer an addition; this is a staple product for me. It is my main cleaning routine, and I could not be happier about it," they raved. That said, the dirty water tank has to be changed every other week or once a month (depending on the frequency of use).

Works On:Hard floors, carpet |Special Features:App, self-emptying, multiple cleaning modes |Object Avoidance:Yes |Mopping Capabilities:Yes |HEPA Filter:Yes |Good For:Pet hair, dirt, dust, debris

What to Know About Robot Vacuums

Robot Vacuums vs. Standard Vacuums

Wondering if a robot vacuum is right for your home? The choice ultimately depends on the type of flooring that you have, the number of obstacles in your home, and how you prefer to clean. Robot vacuums are great for maintaining dust-free floors, especially in homes with hard flooring or low-pile carpets and in rooms with minimal clutter. Unlike full-size vacuums, robot vacuums are also great for maneuvering under low tables and sofas.

Because they are not as powerful as regularupright vacuums, robot vacuums are not as effective for deep cleaning and extra thick carpets.

Types of Robot Vacuums

Thanks to recent advances in technology, today’s robot vacuums are smarter than ever and have more comprehensive features. The following are several popular types of robot vacuums that you may want to consider for your home.

Maneuverability

Since one of the perks of robot vacuums is their ability to be left unsupervised, you’ll want to make sure you choose a model with plenty of maneuverability. Home mapping technology can help because it lets the vacuum know where there are stairs and other hazards, as well as detecting where furniture is. You’ll also want to consider whether the vacuum can easily maneuver between rugs, carpets, and hard floors.

Object-Avoidance Technology

One benefit of certain robot vacuums is object-avoidance technology. Most robot vacuums are equipped with ledge detection sensors that stop them from falling down stairs, as well as other sensors that allow them to avoid furniture and other obstacles. However, more advanced vacuums are also equipped with sensors — or sometimes even cameras — to help avoid things like kids' toys, socks, and pet messes that you don’t want to spread around your house.

For instance, models like theShark 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mopare specifically designed to maneuver their way around items on the floor, like cords or toys, thanks to their object-avoidance technology. Another vacuum on our list with excellent object avoidance technology is theiRobot Roomba J7. This design feature can help save toys that get left on the floor while helping to avoid confusion for your robot vacuum.

Special Features

Robot vacuums can be pricey, so you want to make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck. Some special features to look for include home mapping, self-parking in the dock, and self-emptying, which theEcovacs Deebot T10 Plushas. Base dust containers can hold about 30 to 60 days of dust and debris before they need to be emptied, and while these models are often more expensive, the convenience is often worth it, especially if you have a larger home.

Other features include voice control and app integration, where you can control the vacuum from your smartphone or other smart device. If you would rather not use an app, some robot vacuums have an included remote, like theILife V3s Pro Robot Vacuum. Most apps also allow you to schedule cleanings while you aren’t home, so the vacuum can do its thing while you’re out, and when you return, your home is spick and span.

Price Range

Another aspect to consider is the price of your robot vacuum. These small but mighty machines can range anywhere from $300 to $1,000+. The most affordable option on this list is theILife V3s Pro, which retails for around $100, but on the high end, theRoborock S8 Pro Ultracosts a cool $1,600. At the higher end of this scale, you’ll get more advanced features like smart mapping, mopping abilities, and improved obstacle avoidance, but there are plenty of solid cleaning tools for less than $200, too.

People / Madison Yauger

For the past several years, our team has evaluated more than 50 robot vacuums in the lab and at home. We scored them on ease of setup, effectiveness, noise level, features, maneuverability, ease of emptying, and overall value.

Taking all of these factors into consideration, theiRobot Roomba 694scored high marks in every category, making it our best overall pick for robot vacuums.

People / Henry Wortock

Camryn Rabideauis a contributing shopping writer and product reviewer for PEOPLE who specializes in home, kitchen, and pet products. She’s personally tested dozens of robot vacuums, including many of the models on this list. While writing this article, she carefully reviewed our testing insights for information on each robot’s performance and strong suits.

We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

source: people.com