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Buying Guide Robot Vacuums

How to Choose a Robot Vacuum

Quick answer

Pick lidar or camera mapping, decide whether you need mopping, choose a self-empty dock if you hate emptying bins, and check yearly supply costs before you buy.

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Lidar and camera robots map your home and clean in rows. Random-bump robots are cheaper but miss spots and take longer.

Vacuum only or vacuum and mop

  • Mostly carpet: vacuum only
    – Mixed floors: vacuum and mop with mop lifting
    – Mostly hard floors: a mop-washing dock is worth it

Docks

Self-empty docks hold weeks of dirt. Mop-wash docks clean and dry pads. Both take floor space, so measure first.

Running costs

Budget £50 to £150 a year for bags, filters, side brushes and mop pads.

Our picks

See all our best robot vacuums in the uk for more options.

Frequently asked questions

Can robot vacuums handle pet hair?

Yes, especially models with rubber rollers and self-empty docks. Pick up toys and cords first.

Do robot vacuums work in the dark?

Lidar models do. Camera-only models may need some light.

How often should a robot vacuum run?

Daily or every other day keeps floors tidy, especially with pets.

Buyrskip Editorial Team

Part of the Buyrskip research team. We compare specifications, documentation and real-world trade-offs so you can decide faster.