If you prefer not to use an app to control your device, some models come with physical strips to set up on your floors which prevent your robot vacuum from cleaning where it shouldn't.

It can also offer alternative cleaning patterns, so you can choose the route you want it to take. At 4.75 inches, it's taller than many other robot vacuums — it could just reach under our kitchen baseboards, but failed to get under the dishwasher, which the majority of others models could clear.

The robot vacuum cleaner can identify the area or item you don't want robot ro get close to.TIPS: Make sure the strip is placed flat on the floor or under an area rug.

If you want to clean up smart (and never lift a finger!), the best robot vacuums are essential. And whether you're a newbie or want to upgrade your existing model, it can be tricky to find the right model for your home.

Price-wise, it's not cheap – although we couldn't fault the build quality or engineering, and these kinds of do-it-all docks do always come at a price. But if you have lots of hard floors and mopping is your priority, it's worth the investment.

AR Score is a scoring system developed by our experts. The score is from 0 to 10 based on the data collected by the Appliances Radar tool. This score doesn't Top 3 Automatic Vacuum Cleaners impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Learn more

The Shark PowerDetect 2-in-1 offers the best of everything. It intelligently mops and vacuums your floors for up to 30 days. Just set a schedule and the robot returns to its base to empty the dustbin, wash the mop, and refill the tank automatically.

✅ You want a hands-off dock: The dock will empty dust (into a larger than usual dock dustbin), refill water, dispense detergent and even wash and dry the mop pads, so there's minimal effort required from you.

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"Both the vacuum itself and the charging unit/dust bin are attractively designed while remaining inconspicuous. The accompanying app is intuitive and clearly illustrates how the robot maps the areas its cleaning, as well as providing the ability to specify 'no-go zones'. The power settings can be changed between Quiet, Standard, Strong and Max.

✅ You want a stylish dock: The Freo X has a space-age, curvy dock that I wouldn't mind having on display.

The Dreametech L10s Ultra navigated our test courses effortlessly, rarely bumping into obstacles and efficiently cleaning under low-profile furniture like sofas. With its long runtime, spacious dustbin and excellent maneuverability, this model is a great choice for larger homes.

Our testers like that it’s easy to remove hair from the iRobot’s signature dual green rubber brush rollers. iRobot vacuums have very good scores for data security, but like other models, its data privacy leaves a bit to be desired. iRobot Roomba Combo j5+