In New Zealand, like many other countries, the market for robotic vacuum cleaners has exploded. Several different robot vacuum cleaners are now available here, each buzzing with various innovations and features.
But with so many options, finding the perfect robot vacuum cleaner can be challenging. The common thread among them is their ability to autonomously navigate your home, ridding it of dust and debris without needing manual labour. However, not all robot vacuums are created equal. Some robot vacuums, vacuum and mop simultaneously; some are experts at picking up pet hair, and others can empty and clean themselves. You’ll need to consider these things when deciding on the best robot vacuum for you.
In this expert guide, we’ve tested and reviewed various autonomous cleaning companions, drawing upon insights from trusted sources and hands-on experiences.
Our goal is to simplify your purchasing decision in a market that often can be overwhelming, helping you find the best robot vacuum cleaner for you. Whether you seek a robot vacuum for daily maintenance or occasional touch-ups, there’s bound to be one on this list that suits your needs. And as usual, we’ve only included products you can purchase in New Zealand, so you won’t find any obscure European-only options here.
See also:
The best Robot Vacuums NZ
1. Ecovacs Deebot X2 OMNI
Price: $3,000
8,000Pa suction power | Automatically switches between mopping and vacuuming | Pet matter detection
The Deebot X2 OMNI by Ecovacs is a game-changer in the premium robot vacuum sector, setting a high benchmark with its innovative features and performance.
The new square design ensures enhanced cleaning in corners, while its AI-driven navigation ensures efficient room mapping and obstacle avoidance.
Key features include an impressive 8,000Pa suction power, the LiftUp OZMO Turbo 2.0 Rotating Mopping system that can seamlessly adjust between hardwood and carpeted surfaces, and an all-in-one docking station that automates most maintenance tasks. Its easy-to-use app, substantial 6,400mAh battery offering 160 minutes of runtime, and simultaneous mopping and vacuuming functions make it stand out in its category.
Priced at $2,999, it is on the higher end, but given its robust performance and autonomy, it offers value for the money.
Read our review of the Ecovacs Deebot X2 OMNI here
2. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
Price: $3,000
6,000Pa suction power | Automatically switches between mopping and vacuuming | Self-clean, fill, dry, empty, wash capabilities
Boasting an impressive suction power of 6,000Pa and advanced navigation technologies (PreciSense LiDAR and Reactive 3D technology), the S8 Pro Ultra is a brilliant robot vacuum.
The standout feature here is its autonomy. Equipped with an innovative rising brush and mopping system, the S8 Pro Ultra seamlessly transitions between mopping hardwood floors and vacuuming carpets, all without requiring human intervention.
This feature-rich robot vacuum cleaner boasts market-leading performance and versatility, making it a top contender in the robot vacuum market.
Read our review of the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra here
3. Ecovacs Deebot X1 OMNI
Price: $2,499
5,000Pa suction power | Twin barrel empty station | Good navigation
The reason the X1 OMNI isn’t higher on this list is because it’s an expensive robot vacuum cleaner and doesn’t boast the same automatic mopping/vacuuming features of the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra.
The new features that Ecovacs have introduced are genuinely helpful (like the automatic mop cleaning). And there are also big ticket features like the onboard camera system and the voice assistant integration that can assist with your use.
While it doesn’t boast features that make other robot vacuums stand out on this list, mainly automatic switching between mopping and vacuuming it does the job, and a very good one at that.
It has a large auto-empty station, long-lasting battery life, continuous cleaning functions and muilti-floor mapping. The X1 OMNI is a very good vacuum that will make you never have to think about vacuuming again.
Read our review of the Ecovacs Deebot X1 OMNI here
4. Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra
Price: $2,500
5,100Pa suction power | Self-clean capabilities | Base station is large
The Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra is a standout robot vacuum. Equipped with a capable 5,100pa suction power motor, it leaves no room for dust, dirt, or debris to hide.
Whether you have hardwood floors, carpets, or both, this vacuum’s adaptive cleaning system ensures thorough and efficient cleaning on every surface.
One standout feature of the S7 MaxV Ultra is its sonic mopping technology. Unlike traditional mopping robots, it doesn’t just drag a damp cloth across your floors; instead, it vibrates at high frequencies, dislodging stubborn stains and dirt for a truly deep clean.
Moreover, the S7 MaxV Ultra is not only powerful but also smart. It’s equipped with precise mapping and navigation capabilities, which enable it to navigate your home accurately. With the accompanying mobile app, you can schedule cleanings, designate no-go zones, and even control the robot remotely.
5. Ecovacs Deebot T9+
Price: $1,200
3,000Pa suction power | Affordable | Good cleaning capabilities
The T9+ is a very good robot vacuum.
While it isn’t as powerful as others on this list with its limited 3000 Pa suction power, the T9+ has performance that’s good enough to notice your house has had a decent clean.
Its TrueMapping technology creates an accurate map of the house; it’s great at navigating obstacles, and it’s easy to set up and leave to do its thing. With Ecovac’s intuitive mobile app, setting up and monitoring the T9+ is a breeze.
It comes with an auto-empty station and all the features and functions you’d want in a robot vacuum, so you don’t have to think about vacuuming the house ever again. Just leave it to do its thing.
The best feature is the price, though. This is significantly cheaper than the other robot vacuums on this list. And while it’s easy to think you’ll get better results with a more expensive robot vacuum, it isn’t always the case. The T9+ cleans very well. It just doesn’t have the more advanced features of other robot vacuum cleaners on this list.
Read our review of the Ecovacs Deebot T9+ here
6. Ecovacs Deebot X1 PLUS
Price: $1,599
5,000Pa suction | Easy-to-use app | Have to put mops on if you want it to mop
The X1 PLUS has a lot going for it. It has a small dock that is easy to place, it’s filled with Ecovacs industry-leading technology like TrueMapping 2.0 and AIVI 3D object detection, it comes with an efficient and useful auto-emptying bin with 21kPA suction power, and it will pick up anything you throw at it.
This is a robot vacuum for someone who lives in a carpet-dominated house. It doesn’t have the water auto-refilling features, the OZMO Turbo dual-mop system and automatic mop cleaning and drying found in Ecovacs’ flagship model, the X1 OMNI.
If you’re looking for a robot vacuum primarily for mopping, the Ecovacs flagship model provides better and more autonomous performance. But if you’re looking for a robot vacuum cleaner, then this matches the performance of more expensive, premium robot vacuum cleaners, and doesn’t disappoint.
Unfortunately, like the X1 OMNI, the PLUS has “advanced” features that have no place being in a robot vacuum. Features like Yiko and the onboard camera are here, and they don’t serve much purpose.
Read our review of the Evovacs Deebot X1 PLUS here
Robot Vacuum Buyers Guide
Choosing the right robot vacuum can be complex, especially with the vast array of options currently available. Finding the perfect robot vacuum for your house now requires careful consideration.
This comprehensive buyer’s guide will walk you through essential factors you should consider before making your buying decision:
Cleaning Needs
The first thing you need to consider when purchasing a robot vacuum is the makeup of your house and, more importantly, what types of floors you have in your house:
a. Floor Type: Start by assessing your floor types. Different robot vacuums excel on different surfaces. Some are designed for carpets, while others are better suited for hardwood or tile floors. If you have a mix of floor types, look for a versatile model with adaptive cleaning settings or one that can autonomously change between mopping and vacuuming.
b. Pet-Friendly Features: For homes with pets, consider models equipped with strong suction power and efficient brush systems to tackle pet hair effectively.
c. Allergies: If allergies are a concern, prioritize models with HEPA filters, which trap fine particles like pollen and dust mites. High-efficiency filters help maintain cleaner air quality.
Navigation and Mapping
A robot vacuum is only as good as its ability to navigate your house. It’s always important to ensure the robot vacuum you’re thinking of buying has technology and features that enable it to understand where it’s going and avoid obstacles. Without these things, it will be next to useless.
a. Smart Navigation: Advanced navigation systems, such as LiDAR, camera-based mapping, or laser-guided technology, enable the robot vacuum to navigate your home efficiently, avoiding obstacles and providing systematic coverage.
b. Mapping and App Control: Choose a robot vacuum with mapping capabilities that allow you to create cleaning zones, set boundaries, and customize cleaning schedules via a smartphone app. This feature enhances your control and convenience.
Battery Life and Recharge
If you have a larger house, it’s essential to consider the battery life of the robot vacuum. A good tip is to look for a robot vacuum with continuous cleaning functionality. This means if the vacuum runs out of battery mid-clean, it will recharge itself and then finish the job when it has enough juice.
a. Battery Capacity: Longer battery life means more cleaning time per charge. Models with larger battery capacities are ideal for larger homes. Look for options with runtime suitable for your cleaning needs.
b. Auto-Recharge: Most robot vacuums can automatically return to their docking station for recharging when the battery runs low. Ensure the robot can resume cleaning from where it left off after recharging.
Suction Power and Cleaning Performance
This one’s a no-brainer. The more suction power a robot vacuum has, the more it will be able to pick up.
a. Suction Power: Check the vacuum’s suction power rating (usually measured in Pascals or Pa). Higher values generally indicate better performance, especially for deep cleaning on carpets.
b. Brush Types: Consider the type of brush system the vacuum uses. Dual brush rolls or rubberized brushes are effective in agitating and capturing dirt. Some models include specialized brushes for pet hair.
Dustbin Size and Maintenance
a. Dustbin Capacity: A larger dustbin reduces the frequency of emptying. Models with auto-emptying stations are available for even more convenience.
b. Easy Maintenance: Look for models with user-friendly design features, like easy-to-remove brush rolls and washable filters, to simplify routine maintenance.
Connectivity and Voice Control
This isn’t a must-have but if you’re wanting to control your robot vacuum cleaner with voice commands, look for one that supports your favoured voice assistant like Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri.
a. App Integration: Robot vacuums that integrate with smartphone apps provide remote control and monitoring, scheduling, and firmware updates.
b. Voice Assistant Compatibility: Some vacuums can be controlled using voice commands through platforms like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
