13 best robot vacuum cleaners for spotless floors 2026 UK
How to choose a robot vacuum?
Robot vacuums involve a lot of innovative technology and special features, which means there’s plenty to consider before buying. These are the key factors to consider.
Navigation and mapping type: Most robot vacuums use LiDAR (light detection and ranging), dToF (direct time of flight) or AI cameras to map your home. With LiDAR, laser sensors measure the distances between the robot and walls and furniture. The robot can then build a precise map of the floor and can accurately navigate your home.
Direct time of flight navigation is essentially a premium LiDAR system that measures the return of light lasers to judge how far away objects are. It works in a very similar way but can be better at assessing depth and distance.
AI cameras, on the other hand, help your robot to ‘see’ your home, allowing them to identify objects using image recognition. In our tests, we’ve found dToF and LiDAR to be the most reliable form of mapping technology as they don’t need light to work (AI cameras can’t recognise or ‘see’ objects in the dark) and helps the robot to work out the fastest and quickest routes around multiple rooms.
Obstacle recognition: While LiDAR technology is fantastic for mapping, it’s not as effective as AI cameras when it comes to avoiding obstacles. The cameras can quickly recognise shapes as objects, helping to navigate things that aren’t always there like dropped toys, cables, or pet messes.
Ideally, you’ll want to find a robot with both a laser-based navigation and mapping system as well as some form of AI camera to get the best of both worlds. Our top-rated model, the Eufy Omni S2 is a great example as it uses 3D AI cameras that can detect over 200 obstacles and 40 different stains as well as ToF laser mapping.
Self-emptying: Most modern robot vacuums can empty themselves into a docking station but it’s worth double checking before buying. These robots empty into a larger bin and then carry on cleaning without you needing to intervene, offering a more hands-free approach to vacuuming.
Size: Some models are larger than others and we’re now seeing more mini robot vacuums enter the market. A smaller robot can clean underneath low-lying furniture or get into tight spaces but may take longer to clean a whole room.
Mopping features: We’ve seen some huge upgrades in the mopping functions built into robot vacuums in the past year, and the latest technology has seriously impressed in the lab. The most basic mopping feature is a clip-on mop pad, which attaches to the robot and sweeps up spills as it’s dragged along. These can be effective on recent spills but can struggle with dried-in stains.
On the next level up, you’ll find robots with dual rotating mop pads. These typically scrub well but the pads get dirty while cleaning, so you may end up with some streaks.
Recently, we’ve tested robots with self-washing roller mops and extendable mop arms, which have been better at agitating and removing dried mess in some cases. These premium mops are usually paired with a docking station that washes and dries the mop at high heats to sanitise it ready for the next time it’s needed.
Our favourite robot mop is the Eufy Omni S2, which has a clean and dirty water tank, so you’re always mopping with fresh water. That way, there’s less chance of redepositing dirt or leaving streaks behind. You can see it in action below!
