Robot vacuums aren't as exclusive as several years ago, with over 18 million units shipped worldwide in 2023. Technological advancements have also made them better and cheaper, so you can get the best budget robot vacuum without exchanging core functionality.
Of course, you should also expect a lower suction power and more basic navigation and mapping. When choosing the best affordable robot vacuum, keep in mind it's about getting regular house cleaning done. You may not get the latest AI-powered obstacle avoidance, but you will save hundreds of dollars.
I have thoroughly researched the currently available best-value robot vacuum models. The Cybernews research team verified my data and added more details from independent online reviews, first-hand user opinions, and the latest product news. Below is my list of the 7 best budget robot vacuums that will keep your environment fresh without thinning your wallet.
Best budget robot vacuums – shortlist
- Shark ION Robot Vacuum AV752 – the best budget robot vacuum overall
- Shark AI AV2501AE – budget robot vacuum with LiDAR navigation
- iRobot Roomba 692 – best for flats with pets
- eufy 11S MAX – best slim budget robot cleaner
- Lefant M210 – budget robot vacuum for smaller houses
- eufy Clean L60 SES – excellent hybrid budget vacuum robot
- SwitchBot Mini K10 – great smart budget robot vacuum
The best budget robot vacuums compared
Whichever robot vacuum is best depends on your household's planning. Before detailed budget robot vacuum reviews, here's a side-by-side comparison of each model's features and strengths
| Model name | Best for | Dimensions (in inches, L x W x H) | Battery life | Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Scheduling | Virtual walls | Remote controls | Phone controls |
| Shark ION Robot Vacuum AV752 | Regular house cleaning | 12.6 x 12.4 x 3.54 | 120 minutes | Vacuum | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Shark AI AV2501AE | Large house cleaning | 13.08 x 8.43 x 13.9 | 120 minutes | Vacuum | Yes | Yes | No | Yes |
| iRobot Roomba 692 | Flats with pets | 13.4 x 13.4 x 3.54 | 90 minutes | Vacuum | Yes | No | No | Yes |
| Eufy 11S MAX | Cleaning under the furniture | 12.79 x 12.79 x 2.85 | 100 minutes | Vacuum | Yes | No | Yes | No |
| Lefant M210 | Small house and flat cleaning | 11 x 11 x 2.8 | 120 minutes | Vacuum | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Eufy Clean L60 SES | Vacuuming and mopping | 12.85 x 18.71 x 14.22 (with the station) | 120 minutes | Hybrid | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| SwitchBot Mini K10 | Vacuuming and mopping | 13.78 x 12.6 x 16.14 (with station) | Hybrid | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
7 best budget robot vacuums – our detailed list
I compiled the list of 7 best budget robot vacuums based on their features, performance, navigation, obstacle avoidance, and pricing. Here are the best robotic vacuums at reasonable costs.
1. Shark ION AV752 – the best price-value budget robot vacuum
| Dimentions | 12.6 x 12.4 x 3.54 |
| Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Vacuum |
| Battery life | 120 minutes |
| Virtual walls | No |
| Remote control | No |
| Best for | Regular house cleaning |
Shark ION Robot Vacuum AV752 is my best budget robot vacuum choice from renowned house appliance manufacturer SharkNinja.
It has a tri-brush system and strong suction power. Its slim design makes it a great model to go under furniture. However, no virtual walls feature makes it occasionally bump into obstacles.
You can control this model using the SharkClean app, which is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. I recommend the Shark ION AV752 for its excellent performance on hard floors and low-pile carpets. If you're exploring more options specifically designed for carpets, check out my guide to the best robot vacuums for carpet.
2. Shark AI AV2501AE – budget robot vacuum for houses with pets
| Dimentions | 13.08 x 8.43 x 13.9 |
| Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Vacuum |
| Battery life | 120 minutes |
| Virtual walls | Yes |
| Remote control | No |
| Best for | Large house cleaning |
The Shark AI AV2501AE robotic vacuum uses a LiDAR navigation system, which is usually reserved for more expensive robot vacuums.
Powered by AI obstacle detection, this robot vacuum effectively cleans big houses with but a few missed spots. It also comes with a large self-emptying station and self-cleaning brushes.
Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues with the SharkClean app. However, compared to the Shark ION AV752, this model also minimizes furniture bumping.
3. iRobot Roomba 692 – budget robot vacuum for homes with pets
| Dimentions | 13.08 x 8.43 x 13.9 |
| Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Vacuum |
| Battery life | 90 minutes |
| Virtual walls | No |
| Remote control | No |
| Best for | Flats with pets |
The iRobot Roomba 692 has good suction power to collect dust bunnies and pet hair efficiently.
It uses dual multi-surface brushes and has a side brush to clean corners. This model moves in a random fashion, which is less than ideal considering its shorter battery duration.
You can control Roomba 692 using the iRobot HOME App, which allows setting custom schedules, checking the cleaning history, and monitoring it remotely.
4. eufy 11S MAX – compact and quiet budget robot vacuum
| Dimentions | 12.79 x 12.79 x 2.85 |
| Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Vacuum |
| Battery life | 100 minutes |
| Virtual walls | No |
| Remote control | Yes |
| Best for | Cleaning under furniture |
The eufy Robot Vacuum 11S MAX exchanges Wi-Fi connectivity and a smart app for a traditional remote control.
It has a 2000Pa suction power but is also very quiet. Slick design makes eufy 11S MAX the best budget robot vacuum to clean under furniture.
However, it bounces around obstacles to navigate the environment, so it can get stuck more often than desired. However, you will get one of the best cleaning performances if you clear the path of major obstacles.
5. Lefant M210 – the most affordable budget vacuum robot
| Dimentions | 11 x 11 x 2.8 |
| Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Vacuum |
| Battery life | 120 minutes |
| Virtual walls | No |
| Remote control | Yes |
| Best for | Small house and flat cleaning |
The Lefant M210 offers one of the most competitive prices, especially during sales.
It has great suction power and a slim design similar to the eufy 11S MAX. Lefant M210 offers six cleaning modes, like edge, random, or manual control cleaning.
This budget vacuum uses gyroscope navigation, which isn't as intuitive as LiDAR or vSLAM camera navigation. It makes the Lefant M210 get stuck relatively often, which is a common issue for most affordable robot vacuums.
6. eufy Clean L60 SES – good for vacuuming and mopping
| Dimentions | 12.85 x 18.71 x 14.22 (with the station) |
| Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Hybrid |
| Battery life | 120 minutes |
| Virtual walls | Yes |
| Remote control | Yes |
| Best for | Vacuuming and mopping |
The eufy Clean L60 SES is one of the best self-emptying robot vacuum models.
Compared to the eufy 11S MAX, this model is twice as powerful, uses a LiDAR navigation system, and comes with a self-emptying station at an extra charge.
You can expect better eufy L60 obstacle avoidance and a virtual walls feature using its eufy Clean app. There is also room for an attachable mop, which drags behind during vacuuming.
7. SwitchBot Mini K10 – good advanced features variety
| Dimentions | 13.78 x 12.6 x 16.14 (with station) |
| Mop/vacuum/hybrid | Hybrid |
| Battery life | 150 minutes |
| Virtual walls | Yes |
| Remote control | Yes |
| Best for | Vacuuming and mopping |
The SwitchBot Mini K10 offers multiple advanced features, like LiDAR navigation and compatibility with smart home devices. It remains one of the best values if you need mopping, smart‑home integration (Amazon, Google, IFTTT) and long battery life.
It is one the best robot vacuums for the money if you require mopping features and connection with Amazon and Google's devices, IFTTT, and other smart gadgets.
Similar to eufy Clean L60 SES, its mopping is rather basic. It's a good set-and-forget choice, especially considering the 150-minute battery life.
How did we select the best budget robot vacuums?
We use multiple criteria to select the best cheap robot vacuums out of dozens of available brands and models. I analyze the currently available best robot vacuums and see which brands offer more affordable but highly rated models, like our top spot Shark ION AV572.
Because most people use budget robot vacuums for regular maintenance, good suction power is paramount. I also consider mopping capabilities because even attachable and disposable mops like the eufy Clean L60 are a nice bonus. A LiDAR, or similarly advanced, navigation system is a significant advantage, but that also increases the prices accordingly.
I also double-check for smart features like a functional app, integration with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, virtual walls, and scheduling. Lastly, I included models like the Lefant M210, which is cheaper than most, but also the more pricey SwitchBot Mini K10 which offers a variety of advanced features.
How much does a robot vacuum cost on average?
The best robot vacuums can be expensive, going into the four-digit numbers. However, developing technology and competitive markets force innovation and reduce prices. Right now, you can get cheap robot vacuums with limited but still very useful features.
Budget vacuum robots typically cost between $100 and $250. They typically have basic navigation, like the bump-and-go or gyroscope-based. They also have limited smart features, like room mapping and virtual walls.
The mid-range robot cleaners cost between $250 and $500. It often adds more suction power, mopping features, smart app control, mapping, and customizable cleaning schedules.
Premium robot vacuums generally cost over $500. You can expect a LiDAR, or similarly advanced, navigation system to enhance obstacle avoidance. Premium models don't get stuck nearly as often, and AI-powered environment recognition ensures fewer missed spots. These robot vacuums also often come with a self-emptying station and perform as a set-and-forget device.
Are budget robot vacuums really worth It?
Yes, I recommend an affordable robot vacuum for most people who want to keep their environment fresh. However, it is also essential to keep in mind their strengths and limitations. After all, a cheap robot vacuum can handle more basic cleaning tasks but also costs much less in comparison.
It's a common misconception that cheap equals worthless. In this case, you trust your budget vacuum robot to regularly clean the apartment, like removing dust bunnies and pet hair. The best inexpensive robot vacuum models typically have sufficient suction power for such debris but cannot handle deeper stains or fancy carpets.
The navigation system is one of the most notorious budget vs. expensive robot vacuum differences. You should expect cheaper models to hit obstacles and get stuck between them more frequently. On the other hand, if you remove major barriers, you can expect a satisfactory performance without spending a lot of money.
How to extend your robot vacuum's lifespan?
Even a budget robot vacuum can last up to six years or even longer if you maintain it regularly using the following tips.
- Empty the dustbin frequently to prevent clogging and maintain suction power. Don't let your robot vacuum while nearly full to prevent clogging, which will improve its lifespan significantly.
- Clean the brushes and wheels to avoid debris buildup that could affect movement. Check moving parts for mangled hair that can slow down your device or stop it from working.
- Replace the filter regularly to ensure optimal air quality and performance. Replace filters every two to three months to get rid of captured allergens and stuck debris.
- Avoid wet spills unless the model is specifically designed for mopping. Budget vacuums without mopping features can damage brushes or internal parts that were not designed to handle liquids.
- Keep the sensors clean to maintain accurate navigation. Carefully wipe the sensors with a dry and smooth cloth.
- Store the vacuum in a dry, cool place to protect its battery life. Keep the robot vacuum in a cool and dry place to protect its electronic components.
Can a robot vacuum replace a traditional vacuum?
As comfortable as they are, I don't recommend replacing traditional vacuums with automatic vacuuming robots. Here's a list of their advantages and setbacks you should know.
I don't recommend replacing traditional vacuums with automatic vacuuming robots due to the setbacks outlined below. Let's start with the positives.
- Convenience. The best robot vacuum devices efficiently gather dust and pet hair, so you don't have to.
- Time-saving. Models with self-emptying stations are excellent set-and-forget devices, saving you hours weekly.
- Space-saving. Robot vacuums, like the eufy 11S Max, are very slim to fit under the furniture and don't take up a lot of space.
- Smart technology. Most contemporary models can be controlled remotely via a mobile app.
The benefits are clear, but you should also consider the following setbacks.
- Limited suction power. Typically, robot vacuums have a suction power of up to 4,500Pa, significantly lower than powerful traditional vacuums.
- Navigation Challenges. Even AI-powered navigation cannot avoid 100% of obstacles.
- Maintenance needs. To prolong its lifespan, you should regularly clean the robot vacuum brushes, filter, and empty the dustbin.
- Price. High-end robot vacuums that can compete with traditional ones are relatively expensive.
What’s the difference between a budget and a premium robot vacuum?
The essential budget vs. premium robot vacuum differences are feature availability, smart capabilities, and performance. Here is how the two differ.
- Suction power. Budget models have lower suction power, typically 1,000-2,000Pa. Meanwhile, premium models can have over 3000+Pa for deep cleaning.
- Navigation. Budget vacuums often rely on gyroscope or similar navigation, resulting in more bumping compared to premium models.
- Smart features. Premium models often integrate with other smart home devices and have features like virtual walls or personalized scheduling.
- Battery life and charging. High-end models have better batteries, can auto-recharge, and resume cleaning from where they left off.
- Dustbin and self-emptying. More expensive robot vacuums often come with self-cleaning stations to minimize human interaction.
- Mopping functionality. Most budget vacuum cleaners are vacuum-only, while premium models have mopping features for light surface cleaning.
Overall, I recommend budget vacuum robots for people who want to automate regular environment maintenance without paying extra.
How to choose the best budget robot vacuum for your needs?
There are several things you should consider to pick the best budget robot vacuum. Here's what I recommend checking out.
- Suction power. Cheaper models have lower suction power sufficient to gather dust but may struggle with larger debris and carpet cleaning.
- Battery life. Invest in a longer battery life if you have a large household with multiple rooms.
- Navigation system. A bump-and-go budget robot cleaner is sufficient to navigate a simple environment. However, you may need a more expensive navigation system if your rooms have many obstacles.
- Dustbin capacity. Estimate how much clutter your automatic cleaner picks up and select one with a larger dustbin or a self-cleaning station accordingly.
- Smart features. Verify integration with smart devices if you have Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant at home.
- Carpet and floor performance. Pick a budget robot vacuum that can handle carpets efficiently if you have them.
- Noise level. Read user reviews about your model's noise level, which is especially important if you have sensitive pets or small children.
Final word on best budget robot vacuum
A budget robot vacuum is a great way to save energy and time by automating regular environment cleaning. The Shark ION Robot Vacuum AV752 is our top spot, which offers excellent suction power and smart-home compatibility at an affordable price.
I recommend checking out the eufy 11S MAX if you're looking for a slim robot vacuum. This model efficiently cleans under the furniture, but the basic navigation system gets it stuck from time to time.
If you don't mind spending extra, take a look at SwitchBot Mini K10. It adds LiDAR navigation and extends battery life but still fits the budget category.
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FAQ
Can a budget robot vacuum clean carpets effectively?
Typically, budget robot vacuums struggle with carpet cleaning due to a lack of advanced navigation systems and limited suction power. I recommend reserving it for light surface cleaning or low-pile carpets if your budget vacuum is powerful enough.
Do budget robot vacuums work with smart home systems?
That depends on the model. However, most contemporary budget vacuum cleaners, like the iRobot Roomba 692, are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and similar. I recommend checking the model's website, as most manufacturers state device compatibility upfront.
What is a good suction power for a budget robot vacuum?
Typically, a good suction power for a budget robot vacuum varies from 2,000Pa to 4,500Pa. However, consider also the types of brushes and mopping capabilities, as suction power is not the only effectiveness criterion.
How often should I empty and clean my robot vacuum?
I recommend cleaning your robot vacuum more often if you use it a lot. Generally, you should empty the dustbin every few cleanings, as well as clean the brushers, wheels, and cameras. Keep in mind that you should also replace the filter every 2 to 3 months.
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