The 3 Best Budget Robot Vacuums - Spring 2023 Reviews

The Neato D8 is the best budget robot vacuum that we've tested. It's usually on sale for just a smidge under $200 and packs a substantial punch for the price, with a wide array of features that are often only found on much more expensive models. Unlike most other robot vacuums in its price range, it has a LIDAR sensor that generates a permanent map of your home. You can then use its companion app to schedule cleaning sessions in advance or set up virtual boundary makers so that the vacuum won't enter any tricky-to-clean areas. It also does a good job of maneuvering itself, though its squared-off front end can cause it to get stuck in some tight spots.

Performance on bare floors is excellent, though it does have a slightly harder time clearing away debris embedded deeply within carpet fibers. Unfortunately, battery performance is unimpressive for a robot vacuum, as it has a max runtime of only 70 minutes when used in its most energy-efficient setting.

If you're looking for a hassle-free way of keeping your floors clean but want to spend as little as possible, the eufy RoboVac 25C is the best robot vacuum under $150 we've tested. Its navigation system is much less advanced than the LIDAR-mapping Neato D8, as it relies on random-pathing to move around a room, leading it to miss some areas while going over others more than once. However, despite its very low price point, this budget-friendly robot vacuum delivers superb performance on bare, even surfaces, though it has a hard time on carpet and struggles with sucking up pet hair. Its companion app is basic but easy to use, and there's little lag when issuing a command with your phone. You can control it without an internet connection using its included remote control, which is great if you have spotty Wi-Fi coverage at home.

Unfortunately, build quality is unimpressive, as is allergen-sealing performance, as fine particles can blow out of its exhaust. If you're looking for a robot vacuum in a similar price bracket that feels better built, you could also consider the Shark ION Robot RV700 Series. It also features a larger dirt compartment and does a slightly better job maneuvering around obstacles; however, it takes much longer to recharge and has even more parts that need periodic cleaning.

If you're looking for a robot vacuum for just under $300, the Wyze Robot Vacuum is an excellent choice. It's pricier than most other robot vacuums on this list, but that's mostly reflective of its added advantages. Like the Neato D8, it has a LIDAR mapping sensor, allowing for quick and precise room mapping, even in the dark. It pulls ahead of the Neato for maneuverability, as it does a better job of making its way around obstacles like tables or chairs. It also has a much longer max battery life of over two hours, though it takes longer to recharge. You can use its companion app to set up virtual boundary lines and schedule cleaning sessions for specific rooms using the coverage map.

It delivers exceptional performance on bare floors and easily clears away pet hair on most surfaces. Unfortunately, its dirt compartment is also tiny and needs regular emptying, and it isn't compatible with a self-emptying dock. One feature it's missing compared to the cheaper Neato D8 is the latter's automatic suction power adjustment feature, so you'll need to adjust this setting manually on some surfaces. It won't be too big a concern if you live in a home with mostly bare floors.