I dont actually own a robot vacuum, and the main reason why is how expensive they can be.
That being said, if Iwere to buyabot vac, I wouldnt spend less than $500.
Here are five reasons why.
Tyler Hayes / How-To Geek
I’ve tested models from brands like iRobot, Roborock, Xiaomi, and many others.
This is why some people find it surprising that I don’t own one of these gadgets myself.
Entry-level bot vacs typically opt for another, less efficient approach.
Tyler Hayes / How-To Geek
To save you money, the manufacturer shuns more advanced mapping and navigation tools in favor of collision-based movement.
On paper, the idea is thateventuallythe bot vac will have cleaned your whole home.
Not to mention all the colliding!
Ste Knight / Review Geek, Mega Pixel/Shutterstock.com
But you probably don’t want a vacuum regularly slamming into your heirlooms.
A majority of bots are equipped with rechargeable lithium-ion cells, and come with charging docks in the box.
Less power means less time cleaning, and more time recharging.
Sharomka/Shutterstock.com
Now, battery capacity isnt the only thing that affects your bots battery power.
Entry-level robot vacuums tend to skimp on the most advanced cleaning features.
One of the first things to go is an automatic dirt disposal tank.
Michael Bizzaco / Review Geek
This, by far, is one of my favorite parts of using a robot vacuum.
These disposal tanks often double as charging docks too.
Higher-priced models are often equipped with higher-end components, like tough rubber brush-heads and silicone-bristled side-sweeping brushes.
Ecovacs
This means youll be changing out dirt disposal bags more frequently too.
In my experience, cheaper robot vacs can have some truly puzzling apps.
Ive seen a few UI layouts with crucial configs (like suction power) hidden away or completely missing.
Theres also less chance that your bot will be compatible with voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant.
I dont think entry-level robot vacs are entirely bad.
Looking for some bot vac inspiration?
Check outour favorite robot vaccuums(including a few budget options).
