Homes with a complex or cluttered layout
You have several rooms, rugs, thresholds or areas to avoid. Check that the model can create and use the map you need, but don’t assume mapping alone will help it navigate around obstacles.
Who is this choice for?
People looking to minimise hands-on maintenance
You want to empty the bin less often with a docking station, while still being prepared to check the brushes, filters and consumables compatible with your model.
Buyers who care about software and repairs
You plan to use an app or set a schedule. Your phone’s compatibility, the update requirements and the parts specific to your chosen model are all worth considering.
What should you look for?
UFC-Que Choisir distinguishes between robots that move around at random and those that map rooms, and assesses their performance on different floor types. If you plan to clean regularly, start with your home, then consider emptying, connected features and model-specific parts.
| Feature | What to check | Who is it for? |
|---|---|---|
| Routes, floors and obstacles | Make a note of rugs, thresholds, cables and areas to avoid; check the mapping features of the specific model. | If I have several rooms or obstacles on the floor, I want to be able to choose where the robot goes rather than relying on it simply having a map. Around 31% of consumers would prioritise route adaptability and floor types. |
| Emptying and maintenance | Check how the bin or docking station works, then review the maintenance tasks listed in the instructions. | If the robot runs frequently, I’d prefer to empty its small bin less often, while still setting aside time to clean its components. For around 25% of consumers, reducing this kind of hands-on maintenance would be the main priority. |
| App and updates | Check that your phone is compatible, and review the model’s connection and update requirements. | To schedule cleaning or manage areas from my phone, I need the app to work with my device. Connected control would be a priority for around 19% of consumers. |
| Repairs and parts | Check the rating shown for the model you’re considering and identify compatible parts and accessories. | If I plan to keep the robot for a long time, I want to know exactly which parts fit my model and under what conditions they’ll remain available. Around 25% of consumers would put this first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Choosing based on the promise of hands-free cleaning alone
Hands-free cleaning doesn’t guarantee the same results on rugs, wooden floors, tiles, along edges or in corners. UFC-Que Choisir tests these surfaces separately.
Before comparing models, make a note of your floors, thresholds, low furniture, cables, stairs and areas to avoid, as well as where you could put the docking station.
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Assuming a self-emptying station means no maintenance
The station can collect the contents of the bin, but the brushes, filters and other components still need maintenance suited to the model.
Read the instructions and check the product codes for compatible consumables before choosing a station.
Depending on the model, you may also need to budget for docking station bags, replacement filters or brushes.
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Assuming all connected features work in the same way
Available features and update requirements vary by model. iRobot and Roborock, for example, list connection, docking station or battery requirements for some of their robots.
Check which app works with your phone, what features the model you’re considering offers and the manufacturer’s update instructions.
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Assuming a brand-wide commitment applies to every robot
A repairability rating or commitment to supplying parts should be checked for the specific model and read alongside its terms. Don’t assume it applies to an entire range.
Check the rating shown for the model you’re interested in and confirm which parts are covered by the manufacturer’s commitment.
Brands to consider based on your priorities
iRobot
If you want to compare scheduling, mapping, docking stations and maintenance, it’s worth looking at connected Roombas range by range.
- According to iRobot support, the app provides access to settings, maintenance features and troubleshooting tools, which vary by model.
- Check that bags, filters, brushes and batteries are compatible with the model you’ve chosen rather than assuming they fit all Roombas.
Rowenta
The X‑Plorer range is worth considering if spare parts and repairability information are important to you.
- According to Rowenta, its commitment to keeping technical parts available for 15 years after purchase covers almost all relevant products, subject to its terms. The product information for the X‑Plorer Série 95 RR7987WH gives it a repairability rating of 9.6/10.
- This rating and the features listed apply to this specific model. Check the model you’re considering and the scope of the commitment separately.
Roborock
Compare Roborock models if you want to check connected features and accessories for each product code.
- Roborock support offers help by model. For the S7, it states that the firmware update must be carried out while the robot is on its docking station and its battery is charged to more than 20%.
- Roborock says several accessories for earlier models aren’t compatible with the S7. Don’t assume an accessory will fit based on the brand name alone.
ECOVACS
Compare DEEBOT models by range if mapping and returning to the docking station are important for your home.
- According to ECOVACS support, the initial map is saved on the relevant models once the cleaning cycle is complete and the robot has automatically returned to its docking station.
- Check the mapping and obstacle-avoidance features listed for the specific model. The brand’s documentation doesn’t guarantee the same performance in every home.
Related Joybuy products
Related products coming soon.
Frequently asked questions
Does a robot vacuum cleaner need mapping?
No, not if you mainly want it to clean on its own in a simple space without choosing specific areas. Mapping is useful for targeting rooms or marking areas to avoid; check that the model you’re considering offers these controls.
Does a self-emptying station mean the robot needs no maintenance?
No. It can mean you need to empty the bin manually less often, but the brushes, filters and other components still need to be maintained as instructed for the model.
What should I check about updates for a connected robot?
Check that the app is compatible with your phone and review the requirements for the model you’ve chosen. For example, for the S7, Roborock requires the robot to be on its docking station with a battery charge of more than 20% when updating the firmware.
How should I use a repairability rating when choosing?
Check the rating shown for the specific model and its details, if available. Don’t apply the rating of a similar model to another robot. For robot vacuum cleaners, a French decree dated 22 April 2022 sets out the criteria used to calculate the rating. Also check separately which parts are compatible and the terms of their availability.