Cheaper Alternative Robotic Vacuums to Roomba
Are you looking for cheaper Roomba alternatives? You’ve come to the right place. Here is a detailed review of the best affordable robot vacuums you can trust to get the job done.
Released in 2002, the iRobot’s Roomba vacuum cleaner took the world by storm.
While they are not the first robot vacuums to be released (Electrolux’s Trilobite was the first released in 1996), they are pretty popular.
This popularity results from their excellent performance and excellent marketing.
However, Roomba vacuums are pretty expensive, and not everyone can afford to pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars for a robot vacuum.
While they are the most successful robot vacuum brand, Roomba vacuums only hold 1% of the robot vacuums market, meaning there are many other options to choose from.
To make it easier for you, I have picked the best cheaper alternatives to Roomba vacuum that will still meet your vacuuming needs.
Top 3 Cheaper Roomba Alternatives
#1. Eufy BoostIQ Robovac 11S Max – The Best Roomba Alternative
eufy by Anker, BoostIQ RoboVac 11S MAX, Robot Vacuum Cleaner
At the top of my list is the Eufy’s Robovac 11S Max, and it has everything you would be looking for in a robot vacuum for less than $300.
Functionality and Power
For starters, the 2000pa suction power and brushes are enough to get rid of even the largest debris from your carpets.
To give it more suction power, the manufacturer added the BoostIQ power, which boosts the suction power within seconds when more power is needed.
What I loved most is the Unibody filters that help get rid of dirt, pet dander, and all other types of debris.
The manufacturer even offers an extra set of filters. It also comes with convenient cleaning modes, which are;
- Auto Mode
- Edge clean
- Spot clean
- Quick clean
The only downside with this vacuum is that it’s not suitable for dark floors since the dark shade absorbs the infrared rays from the sensors. It’s also not ideal for high pile carpets.
Running time
Another excellent feature is the 100 minutes operating time, which, coupled with the 0.6-liter dustbin, makes cleaning easy.
You don’t have to empty it after every few seconds. Better yet, it’s a self-charging vacuum. Once the charge is depleted, it will access the charging station and fully charge, waiting for the next cleaning session.
Operating Mechanism
The eufy BoostIQ robot vacuum is operated via remote control.
Safety
And that’s not all. It’s equipped with obstacle avoidance sensors and drop sensors.
These sensors allow it to work independently without crashing into objects or falling down the stairs.
The 2.85-inch slim design makes it suitable for cleaning under sofas and other tight areas.
User Impressions
Most users were pet owners, and they confirmed that this robot vacuum cleaned after their pet’s hair, litter, and dirt. They also loved the vacuum’s dustbin capacity since they didn’t have to empty it often.
However, they noted that it does bump into some objects, and it sometimes cleans one spot repeatedly. So it would be best to clear cables and other objects it may bump into and leave the vacuum to do its thing as you handle other activities.
Pros
- It’s easy to use
- The sizeable dustbin minimizes the number of times you have to empty
- It has a relatively quiet operation
Cons
- It’s not suitable for dark floors or high pile carpets
Click Here to Buy the Eufy BoostIQ on Amazon
#2. ECOVACS DEEBOT 500 Robot Vacuum Cleaner
ECOVACS DEEBOT 500 Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Max Power Suction
The Ecovacs Deebot is one of the best deal you can get on cheap Roomba alternatives.
Functionality
Featuring two vacuuming power levels, normal and max, this robotic vacuum has enough vacuuming power to clean carpets, tiles, and hardwood floors.
Its cleaning ability is also enhanced by the three sets of brushes and the three cleaning modes; AUTO mode for the wider areas, Spot mode for small sections, and Edge mode when you need to clean the edges.
Running Time
Despite being relatively cheaper than the Eufy BoostIQ model, it has a longer operating time (110 Minutes).
And yes, it automatically returns to the charging dock once the charge gets depleted.
But the 520 Ml dustbin may be quite small for some cleaning tasks.
Operating Mechanism
What sets it apart from the rest is the compatibility with Alexa and smartphone apps. This allows you to operate it through voice commands or schedule cleaning time through the app.
Safety
The manufacturer included anti-collision and anti-falling sensors, bumpers, and an anti-scratch finish for durability to enhance its safety.
User Impressions
The DEEBOT 500 is quite a good cleaner based on most user reviews. However, there are two issues we can’t ignore from most testimonies that even the manual warns about them.
First, while it has anti-collision sensors, this device is fond of getting stuck on any obstacle they can find.
So it’s best to vacuum-proof (remove any barriers) to allow it to clean on its own. Or, you can wait until you get home and direct it using the direction controls.
Secondly, it throws dust sideways, which can be detrimental for people with allergies.
Pros
- It’s easy to set up
- Great value for money
- The voice and app controls give you more control over the device
Cons
- It gets stuck often and may need to be guided manually
Click Here to Buy the Ecovacs Deebot on Amazon
#3. Coredy Robot Vacuum Cleaner R300
Coredy Robot Vacuum Cleaner, 1400Pa Super-Strong Suction, Ultra Slim
If you are looking for a cheap Roomba alternative under $200 that gets the job done, then the Coredy Robot vacuum may be what you need.
Functionality
While the 1400pa suction power is a little short compared to the Eufy BoostIQ, there isn’t much difference in how both of these vacuum cleaners perform.
What’s more? You not only get to vacuum, but this device is also designed to mop. It collects dander, dust, and hair and uses the mopping function to eliminate mud and stains.
The 400ML tank is sold separately, though, but an additional $30 for extra functionality shouldn’t be a problem.
Operating Mechanism
While it doesn’t connect to Wi-Fi or mobile apps, you can schedule, control it, start/stop it using the remote.
There are 5 modes, namely:
- AUTO Mode – for continuous cleaning
- SINGLE ROOM – For a timed cleaning that lasts 30 minutes
- SPOT – For cleaning a small area
- LOWER SUCTION – Operates with a minimized suction power
- EDGE – For cleaning along the edges
Running time
How about operating time? With a 2600mAh battery, this vacuum lasts for at least 110 minutes, giving it enough time to clean a large portion of the house before returning to the charging dock.
I was fascinated by the automatic height adjustment that allows it to clean carpets and flawlessly transition to hardwood floors.
Safety
The obstacle avoidance sensors, drop prevention mechanisms and pressure-sensitive bumper allow it to navigate your house without crashing into objects.
To crown it all, the Coredy R300 has a dual filter system that makes sure all the dirt (at least most of it) ends up in the dust bin. This feature makes it practical to those with allergies since the dirt is not redistributed back into the air.
User Impressions
Most users were people with pets that brought lots of dirt into the house (dogs or pigs). Others had cats or dogs that shed a lot of hair. Most of them agreed that there was a change after running this vacuum cleaner for some time.
Users also loved the slim 2.7-inch design that allows it to go under furniture, refrigerators, and other appliances without getting stuck.
However, some users didn’t think it picked up enough dirt or debris, and they still had to use a broom, especially along the edges.
Pros
- It’s easy to operate
- Very versatile – works on carpets, tiles, and hardwood floors
- It’s a multifunctional tool – vacuum and mop
Cons
- It’s too loud
Click Here to Buy the Coredy Robotic Vacuum on Amazon
Cheap Roomba Alternatives Buyers Guide
Whether you go for the Roomba robot vacuum or its cheaper alternatives, you should note they all function similarly.
They are environmentally friendly, pet friendly, easy, and fun to use and maintain.
Some people even take them for pets, assigning them names and enjoying their company as they operate around the house. However, robot vacuums are not suitable for everyone.
Now let’s see what to consider when choosing one.
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Robot Vacuum
Cost
Just because you’re looking for an inexpensive Roomba alternative doesn’t mean you should go for the cheapest model without considering its functionality.
The initial cost may be considerably low, but the device may drain you in maintenance, repair, or even accident costs.
It would be best to balance the features you need and how much you’re willing to pay for the vacuum.
User reviews can also help you determine if a device is worth the cost.
Technical Know How
You need to have some knowledge of technical devices to operate a robot vacuum.
They aren’t that complicated, though, but you should be sure that you will be able to operate them. Generally, those with remotes are often easier to use than those operated via an app.
The Type of Floor
Some robotic vacuums claim they can clean all types of floors. But in the real sense, most cheap robot vacuums may have some issues cleaning high pile carpets.
So make sure the model you’re going for has been tested and proven to work on your floor.
Besides the type of floor, you should also pay attention to the kind of debris you need to clean. Some are best suited for solid debris, while others are suitable for pet hair.
House Layout
Robot vacuums are best suited for level surfaces and in rooms with no obstacles. When there are too many obstacles, the vacuum will always get stuck.
Some users often came home to find the robot stuck even before it did at least half of the cleaning.
For story buildings, make sure the vacuum you’re going for has anti-fall sensors. And for large houses with several rooms, you may have to use it in each room at a time or use a traditional vacuum.
Tips for Operating a Robot Vacuum
- They aren’t always perfect, especially in cleaning edges or corners. So, always clean up after them to touch up the areas they missed.
- Always vacuum-proof the room before cleaning. This means getting rid of cables, socks, toys, or anything else they may mistake for dirt.
- Make sure the room is level or even. For thick carpets, you may have to remove them first or look for a vacuum that has automatic height adjustments.
Conclusion
And there you have it. Roomba robot vacuums are robust and durable but very expensive. But their popularity has made a lot of people lose sight of the fact that there are other brands on the market that are as good if not better. And the inexpensive Roomba alternatives featured above prove that. The Eufy BoostIQ vacuum is good for those looking for a powerful option. The Coredy R300 is perfect for those looking for more functionality (vacuuming and mopping). The DEEBOT 500 is an ideal alternative for those who need more control over the device, especially through scheduling, remote control, and voice commands.
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