Um Imparcial View of Top 3 Automatic Vacuum Cleaners

The Ecovacs Deebot T30S Combo is the best all-in-one robot vacuum solution. It has the highest maximum suction of any robot vacuum in this ranking (11,000Pa – matching the maximum we see on any robot vacuum).

But they’re also some of the largest and bulkiest of the vacuum types, especially compared with the sleeker and lighter stick, handheld, and robotic vacuums. According to our tests, the latter vacuums have improved in performance in recent years, but they’re generally better suited for smaller cleanups.

The Tipdiy G90 Combo delivers a comprehensive cleaning experience by combining robotic vacuuming and mopping in one device. This model offers a powerful 4200Pa suction system designed to handle dust, dirt, pet hair, and common household debris with ease.

Spacious homes require vacuums with robust battery life and effective navigation. Models like the MAMNV T7S Combo with its 180-minute runtime, and the Shark AI Ultra with mapping, allow for fewer interruptions and wide coverage. Self-charging ensures they continue seamlessly, even across multiple cleaning cycles.

New robot vacuums are being released at an alarming rate, and it can be difficult to tell one from another. Below is my quick guide to how to choose the right model for you – if you want more information, you'll find it in my in-depth robot vacuum buying advice article.

We look at whether there's any remnants left after a single pass from the robot vacuum, and if it catches them on a second run. We repeat these tests for both hard floor and carpet.

After at least two weeks of testing, we consolidate our findings and use them to judge who (if anyone) we'd recommend the robot vacuum to. We also compare the features and build quality to the price, to assess if the robot vacuum is good value for money.

Staying on top of routine robot vacuum maintenance, such as regularly emptying out the dust bin and filter, and clearing the brush roll of hair, will help ensure that your robot vacuum stays in tip-top shape as long as possible.

This robot vacuum and mop is on par with other high-performing Shark vacuums. The standout features are definitely its cleaning ability, quiet operation, and user-friendly app. If some of the other options on this list had you feeling a bit like Goldilocks, with some sounding a bit too feature- or tech-heavy, or others sounding a bit too stripped down, this Shark model is a great middle ground.

And as far as extending the time in between upgrades, Emily Rairdin, vacuum expert at University Vacuum & Sewing, says three to five years is an average lifespan for robot vacuums, so it's reasonable to trade or upgrade every so often.

It does create a lot of dirty water though, and is a little slow because it'll wash its mop pads multiple times per cleaning session. Elsewhere, it boasts an excellent app and the vacuuming is strong, too.

Nearly all robot vacuums can “recharge and resume” — take themselves back to their dock when they’re low and recharge before picking up where they left off.

Choose an automatic vacuum that aligns with your priorities: for low maintenance and extended cleaning, the Top 3 Automatic Vacuum Cleaners self-emptying Shark AI Ultra excels; for apartments and pet hair, Lefant M210 hits the mark.

Narwal’s obstacle detection is also only okay; there’s pelo camera, and it routinely eats cables. Its three lasers can identify objects as small as a sock and move around them, and it did pass my fake pet poop test.