Home Robots

Buying advice

Judge value over the robot's working life

A home robot that keeps working for longer is often the better buy, even at a higher price. Before you compare stickers, ask how long the maker will sell spare batteries, wheels and drive motors, and whether an independent repairer can fit them. Directive (EU) 2024/1799 sets common EU rules to promote the repair of goods, so ask the maker how repairs are arranged where you live and what they usually cost once the legal guarantee ends. A robot that can be repaired cheaply loses less value each year than one that has to be replaced. At the October 2026 check, the HOBOT 388, at about $250, and the Moley Robotics X-AiR, at about $105,000, bracketed the listed prices, and a single listing needed a quote.

Price the battery you will eventually replace

Battery health decides how long a cordless robot stays useful, so ask what a replacement pack costs and whether you can fit it yourself without voiding the warranty. Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 on batteries sets rules for batteries sold in the EU, including requirements for portable batteries in appliances to be removable and replaceable, which should make this easier over time. For now, compare makers on how they sell replacement packs today: as a cheap part you fit yourself, as a service visit, or not at all. A mower or vacuum whose battery cannot be bought separately may need replacing entirely when the pack fades.

Cost commercial scrubbers by floor area cleaned

Commercial machines such as the Gausium Scrubber 75 or Pudu SH1 Scrubber should be judged against the floor area you need cleaned and the staff hours they free, not against home models. Ask about water and detergent use, squeegee and brush wear, and whether mapping a new floor or changing routes needs a paid technician visit. Check the warranty hours as well as the years, because a machine that runs every night builds up wear far faster than a household robot. For several sites, weigh a bulk purchase against renting a unit for a trial period first.

What to look for

• What the price includes: dock, mop pads, boundary kit or installation
• Running costs such as bags, filters, pads and blades
• Which features need an app account or subscription

Common questions

Why do robot vacuums at similar prices differ so much?

The dock often explains the gap. Self-emptying and mop-washing docks add convenience and cost, so compare the complete package, not just the robot.

Are commercial floor-cleaning robots priced here?

Yes. Commercial scrubbers and cleaners are listed beside home models, and you can request a quote if you need several for one site.

Sources and further reading

• Directive (EU) 2024/1799 on common rules promoting the repair of goods — EUR-Lex, European Union.
  EU rules that promote repair of consumer goods, including repair beyond the legal guarantee.
• Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 concerning batteries and waste batteries — EUR-Lex, European Union.
  EU battery law, including rules on removable and replaceable batteries in appliances.