Are you tired of sweeping and vacuuming? Dear reader, we are in 2016 and it's time for technology to work for you. Perhaps the famous "Internet of Things" is still far from our homes, but if there is one automated gadget that has changed the way we clean floors, it's the robot vacuum. With one brand almost cornering the market, it's hard to find alternatives, but we've scoured the Web and come back with five options.
Robot vacuums have been making rounds on the Web, mainly because of their interaction with animals. Apparently, dogs are scared of them or want to play with them, while cats either treat them as mortal enemies or use them as convenient transportation. The point is that more and more households are making room for these robots, hoping to reduce the burden of keeping floors clean, especially when pets are around. A too-simple shortcut would be to say "buy a Roomba and you're done", but that's not how we do things here. We want to present variety, and then each potential buyer can decide which model suits them best. With that said, here are five models:
Roomba 772
Let's start with the obvious: Roomba robots have been around for over a decade and are market leaders. The 772 model has become the best-seller in recent months, and that's certainly due to its specs, which include the AeroVac suction system in its second version and HEPA filters. It also detects dirt with optical and acoustic sensors, is highly programmable, and fast-charges in just three hours. (401 euros)
Vileda Relax Plus
Looking for a more budget-friendly option, we found that the Vileda Relax Plus presents a more balanced choice. We could have gone with the Relax Cleaning version, which has great reviews, but the Relax Plus improves on things like dustbin capacity and suction power, while also incorporating infrared sensors to reduce collisions with surfaces. (214 euros)
Taurus Striker Mini
Is your budget tight? No worries. Robot vacuums won't let you down, and the Taurus Striker Mini is probably the best you can get for under a hundred euros. Its battery lasts about 60 minutes (75 according to the manufacturer), then takes five hours to recharge, but that's made up for by its side brushes and mopping function that leaves floors glistening. (86 euros)
LG Hom-Bot Square
Believe it or not, Roomba does have competition, and you need look no further than the LG Hom-Bot Square. Its square design lets it reach corners more easily, it's packed with sensors to detect obstacles and avoid stairs, and its two built-in cameras help it stay accurate even in the dark. Oh, and it can receive software updates. (429 euros)
Neato Robotics XV Signature Pro
Finally, we have to mention Neato Robotics. Their models are quite varied, and some approach 700 euros, but the XV Signature Pro is a much more balanced option, offering superior suction and laser-based navigation that improves with every use. It's easy to program, and depending on the situation, the battery takes between two and three hours to recharge. (301 euros)
Five brands, five models. Economical and premium. Quiet and powerful. The search for the perfect robot vacuum isn't easy, but I modestly hope this list serves as a starting point, or perhaps as the final word. Would you like to recommend another model? Leave a comment. Good luck!
