Robot Vacuums Buying Guide: Features You Need to Know

In the fast-paced world of modern life, household cleaning has become a headache for many. Busy with work, childcare, and elderly care, where is the time and energy left to clean the house? Robot vacuums, with their intelligence, efficiency, and time-saving advantages, have gradually become the "cleaning partner" of more and more families. However, there are many types of robot vacuums on the market with different functions, ranging from basic sweeping and suction models to high-end models with integrated automatic dust collection, mopping, and AI obstacle avoidance. If you're considering buying a robot vacuum but aren't sure how to choose, don't worry—this guide will give you a comprehensive understanding of the core functions of robot vacuums, common purchasing mistakes, and how to make an informed decision based on your family's needs.

Have you ever collapsed on the couch after a long day of work, only to look down and find the floor covered in hair, dust, and cookie crumbs? Have you ever thought—wouldn't life be so much better if you had a robot vacuum that could automatically sweep, mop, recharge, and even take out the trash?

Don't rush to order! Robot vacuums on the market range from a few hundred to several thousand yuan, offering a wide array of features: laser navigation, AI obstacle avoidance, sweeping and mopping, automatic dust collection... How do you choose? Is the more expensive the better? Do robot vacuums really free your hands, or are they just a waste of money?

This robot vacuum buying guide is here to help you avoid pitfalls, choose the right one, and get the most value for your money! From core features and buying misunderstandings to recommendations for different demographics, you'll be ready to choose the best one for your home.

Features that require special attention when purchasing a robot vacuum

1.Look at the suction parameter: Pa (Pascal) value

The suction power of a robot vacuum is usually measured in Pascals, which indicates the strength of its vacuum. The higher the value, the stronger the suction power. For families, 2000-4000 Pa is sufficient to handle most dust particles and hair. If you have pets, it is recommended to choose a model with 4000 Pa or above.

• Under 2000Pa: Suitable for hard floors (wooden floors, ceramic tiles), and can handle general dust and hair.
• 2000-3000Pa: Mainstream suction power, suitable for most households, including light cleaning on carpets.
• Above 3000Pa: Suitable for thick carpets and larger particles, such as those in homes with children.
• 4000-6000Pa: High-end flagship configuration, with powerful cleaning power, even capable of picking up rice and screws, especially for homes with pets.

2.Navigation technology: Let the robot vacuum "know" where it is

This is the "brain" and "eyes" of the sweeping robot, and it also determines whether it can clean your home efficiently and thoroughly.

LDS/Lidar Navigation

This is currently the most mainstream and mature technology. Its advantages include precise positioning, fast mapping, and its unaffected by light, allowing it to operate even in darkness. Most mid-range and high-end robot vacuums use this technology.

vSLAM visual navigation

This technology uses a camera to scan the external environment, then uses image recognition and algorithms to locate its position and build a map. Its advantages include relatively low cost, but it has high lighting requirements, with performance declining in low light or strong backlight. Mid-range and low-end robot vacuums often use this technology.

Choose a model with LiDAR navigation for reliable room coverage, minimizing missed areas. A navigation system that combines mapping and adaptive motion maximizes cleaning efficiency. For example, the Honiture V8 Pro System 5.0 LiDAR scans 360° and then lowers itself to clean under beds or sofas, maximizing mapping accuracy and coverage.

3.Obstacle avoidance technology: allows the vacuum robot to "see" the obstacles in front of it

Infrared/Collision Sensors:

This is the most basic obstacle avoidance method. It uses infrared sensors or physical collision sensors to detect obstacles. When the robot encounters an obstacle, the sensor triggers the robot to change direction. While this method is low-cost, its obstacle avoidance effectiveness is limited and collisions are common.

Structured Light/3D ToF Obstacle Avoidance:

By emitting a specific light source (such as infrared light or dotted light) and receiving the reflected information, the robot constructs a 3D model of the obstacle. Based on this information, the robot can determine the obstacle's height, shape, and position, enabling more accurate obstacle avoidance.

AI Visual Recognition and Obstacle Avoidance:

Using cameras and AI algorithms to identify obstacle types (shoes, electrical wires, pet waste), this technology enables the robot to make more intelligent decisions, such as navigating around electrical wires while avoiding pet waste. This is a future trend in robot vacuums.

4.Bush: Choose based on whether you have pets.

Fully rubber roller brush: Resists tangling and is easy to clean (just pull it off). It's especially good for pet hair and long hair.It's highly adaptable to both carpets and hard floors.

Roller brush (bristle + rubber combination): Effectively agitates fine dust, particles, and carpets.

Affordable and versatile. It easily tangles hair (especially long hair and cat and dog hair), requiring frequent cleaning.

Dual Rubber Brushes (Dual Main Brush System): Two counter-rotating rubber brushes work together to enhance the ability to capture deep-seated carpet hair.
This virtually eliminates tangles. Ideal for households with both pet hair and carpet needs.

Recommended pet brush selection: A full rubber main brush or a double rubber brush is preferred to reduce hair entanglement.

If you have a lot of carpet, consider a double rubber brush; if you have a lot of hard surfaces, a single rubber brush will suffice.

4.Battery Capacity and Battery Life

A robot vacuum's battery life is primarily determined by its battery capacity. The larger the battery capacity, the longer the cleaning time and the larger the area it can cover.

However, for home use, try to choose a model with a battery life of no less than 90 minutes, and the charging time should not exceed 5 hours.

Additional Notes:

• Battery Type: Lithium-ion batteries are preferred for their long lifespan and slow degradation.
• Replaceable Battery Design: Common in high-end devices, this extends the device's overall lifespan.
• Thermal Protection: Prevents overheating during summer charging, minimizing battery loss.

6.Obstacle handling

Threshold height is one of the biggest challenges for robot vacuums. If the threshold is too high, the robot may get stuck.Most mainstream models can pass through thresholds within 2 cm. If the threshold is too high or irregularly shaped, it is recommended to choose a robot vacuum with high-precision navigation features that can be used to set virtual walls or restricted areas using a mobile app.

Common mistakes when buying a robot vacuum

1. Focusing solely on price and ignoring features

Choose based on your actual needs and home environment. If your home is complex and has a lot of furniture, a robot with strong navigation and obstacle avoidance capabilities is essential. If you have pets, a robot with automatic dust collection will be much less of a hassle.

2. Focusing solely on suction power, not the cleaning system

A robot vacuum's cleaning performance is the result of the coordinated efforts of multiple components: suction, the main brush, side brushes, and the suction nozzle. Beyond just suction power, consider the main brush's design, material, and mopping performance to ensure they meet your needs.

3. Not considering your home's terrain

Obstacle clearance heights and fuselage thickness vary significantly between different aircraft models. Measure door sill heights, carpet thickness, and the space under furniture in advance, and compare these to your model's specifications.

4. Ignoring after-sales service and consumables costs

Robot vacuums require regular replacement of consumables such as the main brush, side brush, and filter. If a problem arises, good after-sales service is crucial. Before purchasing, research the brand's consumables prices and after-sales service policies.

Robot Vacuum Buyer's Guide: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: Can a robot vacuum really clean your home?

Yes, but it depends on your expectations. It helps you keep your home clean and tidy on a daily basis, effectively removing dust, hair, and everyday debris. It can significantly reduce the frequency of manual cleaning.

Q2: How should I choose a robot vacuum if I have pets at home?

Please pay attention to features like "anti-entanglement" and "automatic dust collection."

Q3: Will a robot vacuum get tangled up in electrical cords and socks?

A robot vacuum's obstacle avoidance capabilities determine whether it can handle these common obstacles. When purchasing, choose a model with this feature.

Q4: Can the robot vacuum climb over carpets and door thresholds?

Typically, the height is 1.5 to 2 cm. It can easily climb over door thresholds or carpet edges within this height.

Q5: Is greater suction power better for a robot vacuum?

Not entirely. Suction power is only one part of cleaning effectiveness. Besides suction power, the design of the main brush and mopping function are equally important.