Updated 2025

Robot Vacuum Features Explained

Detailed guide to technologies and features of modern robot vacuums. From navigation to mopping – understand what each feature means and how it can help you.

Robot vacuum features
10+ Key Features
4 Navigation Types
3 Mopping Types
15 min Read Time

Navigation Technology Comparison

For apartments up to 650 sq ft, gyroscopic navigation is sufficient. For larger spaces, complex floor plans, or multi-story homes, choose LiDAR.

Navigation Type Accuracy In Darkness Price Range
LiDAR Excellent Yes Mid to High
Camera (vSLAM) Very Good No Mid-range
Gyroscope Basic Yes Low
LiDAR + AI Best Yes High

2. Suction Power

Suction power is measured in Pascals (Pa). Higher numbers mean stronger suction, but also more noise and energy consumption. Most robots automatically adjust suction power based on surface type.

Suction Power Suitable For Price Category
1,000-3,000 Pa Hard floors, light debris like dust and crumbs Budget models
3,000-5,000 Pa Low-pile carpets, households without pets Mid-range
5,000-8,000 Pa Pet households, carpets and deep cleaning Premium models
8,000+ Pa Performance comparable to traditional vacuums Flagship models

Automatic Suction Boost on Carpets

Modern robots automatically detect carpets and increase suction power. This feature is called Carpet Boost or Carpet Detection. It saves battery on hard floors while ensuring thorough carpet cleaning.

Popular Feature

3. Mopping Features

Modern robot vacuums combine vacuuming with mopping. Mopping quality varies significantly depending on the technology used.

  • Passive mopping: Simple cloth attached to the robot. Basic floor maintenance.
  • Vibrating mopping: Mop vibrates up to 3,000 times per minute. Effectively removes dried stains.
  • Rotating mops: Two rotating pads with up to 6 kg pressure. Most effective mopping.
  • Auto mop lifting: Robot lifts the mop when entering carpet.
Best With Mop
Mopping features

Mopping Types Comparison

Choose the mopping type based on your needs and type of dirt.

Mopping Type Effectiveness Dried Stains Maintenance
Passive Low Cannot handle Manual washing
Vibrating Medium Partially Manual/auto wash
Rotating High Yes Automatic washing

4. Charging and Service Docks

Docks vary significantly in features offered. From basic charging to complete robot maintenance without user intervention.

Basic Charging

Battery charging only. Manual dustbin emptying and mop maintenance required. Lowest price.

Self-Emptying Dock

Automatic debris extraction into bag or container. 30-60 day capacity without user intervention.

Mop Washing Station

Automatic washing of mop pads with hot water. Some models also dry mops.

All-in-One Dock

Complete care: self-emptying, mop washing, drying, clean water refilling and detergent dispensing.

Dock selection
Selection Tip

How to Choose the Right Dock

If you do not want to handle the robot much, invest in an All-in-One dock. The initial investment is higher, but the convenience of maintenance-free operation makes up for it.

Also consider operating costs – bags vs. bagless system. Bagless systems are more eco-friendly but require more frequent container cleaning.

Premium Models

5. Smart Features

Modern robots offer a range of intelligent features that improve user convenience and cleaning efficiency.

Multi-Floor Mapping

Robot remembers maps of different floors (usually 3-5 maps). Automatically recognizes its location.

Carpet Detection

Ultrasonic sensor detects carpet and robot automatically increases suction power or lifts the mop.

No-Go Zones

In the mobile app, you can mark areas where the robot should not go. Protect fragile items.

Voice Control

Integration with Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, or Apple Siri. Start cleaning with voice commands.

Other Useful Features

Features that may be important for specific user needs.

Want to Compare Models?

Use our comparison tool to find a robot with the features you need.

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