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‘Save your money: Don’t splurge on an autonomous dirt sucker.’
If you’re reading this guide, you probably already know you want a robot vacuum. However, with the high prices of some models, you may be wondering if it’s possible to find a more affordable option. The good news is that there are now plenty of budget-friendly robot vacuums available on the market. After testing numerous models, we have determined that anything priced at $300 or less can be considered cheap in this space. In this article, we will provide you with everything you need to know before purchasing a robot vacuum on a budget, as well as our top recommendations.
Convenience is the biggest advantage of robot vacuums. Simply turn on the device and let it do the work while you focus on other tasks. If you dislike vacuuming or want to spend less time on household chores, investing in a semi-autonomous robotic vacuum is a wise decision.
While there are many advantages to robot vacuums, it’s important to consider the trade-offs. These devices generally have less power and capacity compared to upright vacuums. Their smaller size leads to less powerful suction, and their built-in dustbins are smaller as well. Additionally, robot vacuums rely on batteries and require docking at a charging base.
Another factor to consider is the flexibility of robot vacuums. While they excel at cleaning floors, they may not be as versatile as upright vacuums with various attachments for cleaning hard-to-reach places.
When searching for a budget robot vacuum, it’s crucial to consider the type of flooring in your home. Carpets require vacuums with higher suction power to effectively clean debris in tight spaces. While there isn’t a universal metric for measuring suction power, look for vacuums with a Pascal (Pa) level of around 2000Pa if you have mostly carpeted floors.
Size is also an important consideration. Check the specifications of the robot vacuum to ensure it can fit under your furniture. Additionally, pay attention to the capacity of the dustbin, as a larger capacity means less frequent emptying.
WiFi capabilities are another feature to look out for. While not all budget models offer this functionality, WiFi connectivity allows you to control the vacuum through a smartphone app or with voice commands.
Object detection and cliff sensors are essential features for a robot vacuum. Object detection helps the device navigate around furniture, while cliff sensors prevent it from falling down stairs, making it suitable for multi-level homes.
When selecting robot vacuums to test, we consider the specifications, features, and online reviews. We thoroughly test each vacuum, using it for at least one week and assessing its cleaning performance, physical buttons, and app-controlled features.
Based on our testing, two affordable options stood out: the iRobot’s Roomba 694 and the Shark RV765. The iRobot Roomba 694 offers good cleaning power and a user-friendly mobile app, while the Shark RV765 has a sleek design and longer run time. Both models are WiFi-enabled and include object detection features.
For those on a tighter budget, the Eufy RoboVac 11S is a cost-effective choice. Although it lacks WiFi connectivity, it offers impressive cleaning performance and a slim design that allows it to fit under furniture. The Eufy RoboVac 11S Max is another option with newer technology and WiFi connectivity.
Lastly, the Tapo RV10 Plus by TP-Link is a notable option due to its vacuuming and mopping capabilities, as well as its self-emptying base. While it is priced slightly higher at $400, it offers great value for the features it provides.
Overall, there are now several affordable robot vacuums on the market that offer convenience and decent cleaning performance. Whether you choose the iRobot Roomba 694, Shark RV765, Eufy RoboVac 11S, or Tapo RV10 Plus, you can find a budget-friendly option that suits your needs.