Choosing an automatic home assistant has become a search for the best technology solution. The market is crowded with devices, with Xiaomi and its sub-brand Roborock leading the way with a wide range of devices. Users are often lost in the variety of models, not realizing how the S series differs from the Q series, and whether they need the automatic mop washing feature.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the key differences between generations of robot vacuum cleaners so you can make an informed decision. We will not just list the characteristics, but analyze their impact on the real-world experience of operating in a normal apartment or a large house. It is important to understand that overpaying for a top model is not always justified if your cleaning requirements are basic.
But saving on critical features like navigation or suction power can turn a purchase into a disappointment. Modern models have artificial intelligence that recognizes obstacles, and sophisticated wet cleaning systems that mimic the movement of a human hand. Let's determine which Roborock will be the perfect choice for your home.
The evolution of navigation: why laser is more important than the camera
The first thing to look at when choosing a Xiaomi Roborock is the navigation system, which determines whether the robot can build an accurate map of the room and whether it will not randomly rush around the room. In modern models, the standard has become LDS (Laser Distance Sensor), which uses a laser rangefinder to scan space at 360 degrees.
More advanced models are equipped with ReactiveAI, which complements the laser with a camera and structured light, which allows the device not only to see walls, but also to recognize objects such as socks, wires, toys and even animal excrement. Without this feature, the robot can get stuck or smear trouble all over the floor, which will reduce the efficiency of cleaning to zero.
There are also models with gyro navigation, but they are becoming rarer and only suitable for very simple cleaning scenarios. If you are considering buying a current device, having a laser rangefinder is a must. Camera systems without a laser (visual navigation) work worse in the dark and require good lighting.
⚠️ Note: Models without laser rangefinder (LDS) Often do not know how to build permanent maps of the room, which makes it impossible to clean rooms or install virtual walls.
Wet cleaning: from simple cloth to vibration
For a long time, wet cleaning from Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners was more of a marketing ploy: the device simply dragged a slightly wet wipe behind it. Things changed dramatically with the introduction of VibraRise technology, which provides high-frequency mop vibration, which allows you to actually wipe off dried spots, rather than just wipe the dust.
A key feature of the top models is that they can automatically lift the mat, and when the robot realizes that it's on the carpet, it lifts the vibrating platform to keep the pile from getting wet, which solves one of the biggest problems of combined cleaning, and in simpler models, you have to take the water module off yourself before you start on the carpet.
Also worth noting is the availability of a docking station with automatic mop washing function, the robot periodically returns to the base, washes the dirt from the cloth with clean water and continues cleaning with a clean tool. Without this feature, the effectiveness of floor washing decreases after the first 10-15 square meters, since the cloth simply smears the collected dirt.
- 🧼 VibraRise – Sonic-vibration technology for erasing stains.
- 🤖 Auto-Lift - automatic lifting of the mop when entering the carpet.
- 💧 Self-Washing - automatic washing of rags on the base (in models with a clean water tank).
- 🚫 Carpet Mode - software enhancement of suction on carpets (in models without lifting the mop).
Comparison of S, Q, G and E series – what is the difference?
The Roborock lineup is divided into several series, each targeting a specific audience. The S series (e.g., S7, S8) are flagship models with a maximum set of features, including advanced vibration cleaning and better navigation. The G series (G10, G20) often focuses on improved floorwashing systems and is often equipped with self-cleaning stations.
The Q series (Q5, Q7, Q Re) is a good balance of value, and you get great laser navigation and powerful suction, but you may lose some of the "chips" like mop vibration or mat lifting, which are the choice for those who want dry cleaning and basic floor cleaning without overpaying for premium options.
The E series is usually budget or specialized. Sometimes these models use gyro navigation instead of laser (depending on the specific modification and year of release), or simplified brush design. For large apartments with complex layouts, the E series may be less effective than the Q or S.
Docking Station: Do You Need Full Autonomy?
The trend is to move from simple charging stations to complex Auto-Empty Docks, which automatically suck garbage out of a robot container into a large bag that needs to be changed every 2-3 months, eliminating daily dust contact and making the maintenance process almost invisible.
More sophisticated bases, such as RockDock Ultra, can not only shake out dust, but also pour clean water into a robot tank, drain dirty water, wash a mop and even dry it with warm air, which turns the robot vacuum cleaner into a fully autonomous system that requires human intervention every few weeks.
However, the dimensions of these structures should be considered. The complex base takes up much more space than a regular "pill" for charging. If you plan to install the robot in a niche or under the cabinet, be sure to check the size of the chosen model, taking into account the open lid or protruding elements.
| Type of database | Functional | Frequency of service | For whom? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | Just charging. | After each cleaning (dust) | Economical users |
| Auto-Empty | Charging + Dust Unloading | Every 2-3 months (bag) | Animal owners |
| Ultra / Pro | Complete cycle (water, washing, drying) | Once a month (dirty tank) | Busy people, big houses. |
App and Ecosystem: Mi Home vs Roborock
The robot is controlled via a smartphone, and here the user has a choice between two main applications: Mi Home and Roborock. the application from the manufacturer itself usually updates faster, gets new features earlier and has more detailed settings for specific models of vacuum cleaners.
The Mi Home app is convenient if you already have a Xiaomi smart home ecosystem set up and want to combine all devices into one interface. However, integration can work unstable when choosing the “China” region, which is often required for some models of equipment.
Both apps offer mapping, no-go, schedule and power selection. It is important to note that all functions require a stable 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection. Support for 5GHz networks in robot vacuum cleaners is extremely rare.
Maintenance and durability of components
For Xiaomi Roborock to last, it requires regular maintenance of its main components. The robot's main enemy is hair and thread wound on the brush. Even the best models with combined brushes (silicone + bristles) require periodic cleaning of the ends, where hair often gets stuck.
Sensors, especially laser rangefinders and elevation sensors, need to be wiped with a soft dry cloth. The dusting of the lenses leads to navigational errors: the robot can "lose", build curves or fall from the thresholds. HEPA filters must be changed or washed (if instructed) regularly, so that the suction power does not fall.
⚠️ Warning: Never wash the main motor or electronic components with water. Only plastic dust containers and filters (after drying completely) are to be cleaned).
The final choice: which model to buy in 2026-2026
The answer to the question of which one is better depends on your budget and availability of pets. If your budget allows, the flagships of the S8 Pro Ultra or G20 series will provide maximum comfort with minimal human intervention. They are ideal for families with children and pets due to advanced obstacle recognition.
For a standard apartment without complex requirements, the perfect choice will be the “golden mean” – models of the Q Re Max or Q7 Max + series. They have laser navigation, good suction power and are often completed with a dust unloading station, which greatly simplifies life.
If the main goal is simply to keep the floor clean and the floor washing function is secondary, you can consider more affordable options without the vibration of the mop. The main thing is not to skimp on the presence of a laser rangefinder, as the chaotic movement of the robot will quickly become annoying.