The Best Cheap Robot Vacuums for 2024

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Robot vacuums can easily cost more than $1,000, but you don't need to spend four figures to keep your floors clean without lifting a finger. We've been reviewing robot vacuums for more than a decade and have tested models at every price level, taking into account factors such as suction power, mopping performance, battery life, obstacle avoidance, and more. Plenty of affordable options are worth your consideration, including Bissell SpinWave Wet and Dry Robotic Vacuum, a 2-in-1 robot that can vacuum and mop your floors. All of the models on this list are regularly available for $300 or less (or are on sale for less than $300 as of this writing). Read on for the best cheap robot vacuums we've tested, followed by additional buying advice to help you search.

What's the Best Cheap Robot Vacuum?

When determining which robot vacuum is best for you, consider factors such as battery life, size, and suction power.

In terms of battery life, most robot vacuums can run for at least 60 minutes on a charge, but if you live in a larger home, look for one that can last 90 minutes or longer. Nearly all of the models here pass the 90-minute mark.

Some of the most affordable robot vacuums we've tested are also among the most compact, which is a welcome feature if you have low-profile furniture. Before deciding which one to buy, measure the distance from the floor to the base of your couch to see which models, if any, can fit under it.

Regarding suction, most models on this list offer at least 1,000Pa of power. Generally speaking, the higher the power, the better a vacuum is at picking up tricky detritus like pet hair. Robot vacuums with less suction power but good battery life and obstacle-avoidance abilities can still do an excellent job cleaning.

Do Cheap Robot Vacuums Have Smart Features?

High-end models offer premium features such as AI-powered obstacle avoidance, automatic bin emptying, cameras for remote home monitoring, and home mapping for virtual boundaries. Robot vacuums in the sub-$300 range don't usually offer these abilities, but you can still find some basic perks, such as app connectivity, smart navigation, and voice control.

With a Wi-Fi-connected robot vacuum, you can start, stop, and schedule cleaning jobs from your phone. Wi-Fi is fast becoming a standard feature, but if you don't need or want it, you can snag a super-basic bot that offers good performance for less than $200.

In addition to app control, many affordable robot vacuums support Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for additional convenience. If you also own a compatible smart speaker, you can control these vacuums using your voice.

If you have carpeting or a large home, consider a model with smart navigation abilities. Vacuums with this capability clean in a methodical path, making straight lines instead of zigzagging in a random pattern. This allows them to clean your home more efficiently, resulting in neat vacuum lines on your carpets.

In this price range, you can't expect every feature under the sun, so you might have to make some compromises. When I bought my first robot vacuum, I prioritized strong suction power and smart navigation over Wi-Fi support and a compact design. But you might want a model that you can remotely control with your phone or a smaller one that can pass under your furniture.

If you want to stick with the reliable iRobot brand, see our Roomba roundup.

When Is the Best Time to Get a Cheap Robot Vacuum?

The biggest tip I can offer anyone buying a robot vacuum on a budget is to wait for a sale. Be sure to search around because robot vacuums are frequently available for a discount at Amazon and Walmart in particular. In our reviews, we note the MSRP of each model, but you can often find them for less.

Finally, our in-depth reviews cover all the specs and features of each model, so be sure to check them out. When you find the one that fits your needs and budget, head over to our essential robot vacuum tips. And if you're looking for a robot mop, we've got you covered.