Is The Cheapest Robot Vacuum With Mapping Really Work?

If you’re looking for a cheap robot vacuum that does mapping and unsure about its working capability, this blog post is definitely the one for you!

Mapping is a desirable function in a robot’s vacuum to know where it has been and where it needs to go. It requires more processing power and a more complex algorithm, so they are typically more expensive. But there are some great cheap robot vacuums out there that do mapping.

In our previous article, we wrote about carpet robot vacuum cleaner, now we will share with you the best and cheapest robot vacuum with mapping technology.

We’ll also cover some of the exclusive features, what other users are saying about it, and where to get the best deal on it! So without further ado… let’s get started! 

CHEAPEST Robot Vacuum With Mapping

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What is mapping technology in a robot vacuum?

Before going into this article, we’d like to quickly explain what mapping technology is in a robot vacuum. Mapping technology consists of an electronic method for the device to “map” out the area it will clean so that it can refer back to when determining where its cleaning route should be. Many technology companies incorporate mapping features into their products since they play a significant role in vacuum cleaning.

mapping technology in a robot vacuum

Mapping can help increase navigation efficiency and provide a more thorough clean without multiple passes over the same area.

Types of mapping and which one is more efficient in cleaning

There are three main types of mapping when it comes to cleaning:

1) SLAM (simultaneous localization and mapping) – This is the most efficient and advanced form of mapping. SLAM allows the robot vacuum to create a map of an entire area with just one scan. The map can then be rotated and moved when the robot vacuum receives new information from its sensors. This allows it to clean much more efficiently, especially in larger homes or buildings with multiple floors.

SLAM technology is excellent for big homes, but there are some limitations to smaller homes due to its high accuracy in mapping. This means that if you have a small home, the robot vacuum will probably go over the same spot multiple times.

2) Zoned cleaning/ Boundary marker system – This method is very similar to SLAM, as it also allows for a map to be created and rotated around. The difference between this and Simultaneous Localization and mapping is that zoned cleaning focuses on smaller areas instead of a larger map. This is an efficient way to clean more specific areas such as stairs, area rugs etc.

3) Random cleaning With this method, random cleaning will occur, which means the robot vacuum will simply move around in any pattern until it completes its entire map of your home. While this may seem like a “meh” option, it is a pretty efficient way to clean. It will, of course, not be as thorough as SLAM or boundary marker systems, but it does get the job done nonetheless.

What are the factors besides mapping that you need to consider when purchasing a robot vacuum?

Besides mapping, there are a few other factors you’ll need to consider before making your final purchase. These include:

Suction power – Since robot vacuums are not as effective as traditional vacuums, you will need to consider their suction power. Generally speaking, the more powerful the motor, the stronger suction and higher quality of cleaning it will provide.

App usability The best robot vacuums usually come with an app control functionality that is easy to use and navigate. When purchasing a robot vacuum, this is another factor to consider since it will determine the overall user experience.

Frequency of recharging – If you have a larger home or want to clean for more extended periods, you’ll want to consider robot vacuums that feature a longer battery life and fast recharging time.

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Dust bin capacity – The dust bin capacity is vital if you have a bigger home and clean for more extended periods. It’s not always easy to empty a robot vacuum, but if your bin is fairly easy to empty, it can be a huge help.

Maintenance cost – If you want to spend less time on cleaning and more on enjoying your life, you’ll want to get a robot vacuum that is easy to maintain. This means it will require minimal maintenance and won’t cost too much in repairs.

Mapping, suction power, frequency of recharging, dust bin capacity, and maintenance cost – These are just a few of the most important factors you’ll want to consider when purchasing a robot vacuum. We didn’t include many others in the list, but these are by far the most important.

What are the prices for mapping robot vacuums on the market?

We’ll be going through some of the popular and cheapest mappings bots currently available for purchase. They range from $100 to $500, so there is definitely something for everyone! 

Within this price range, you can get a bot that has mapping! Let’s take a look at what these devices have to offer.

What is the best and cheapest robot vacuum with mapping technology?

In this section, we’ll be looking at cheap robot vacuums with mapping. But keep in mind, cheapest does not always mean worst. Just because it’s under $500 does not mean that it is not worth your money. Some devices in this price range also come with good mapping features and overall capabilities. Let’s take a look!

1. Best Budget Robot Vacuum – iRobot Roomba i3 (3150)

iRobot Roomba i3 (3150)

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The i3 is the most potent Roomba yet. It navigates & maps your home in neat rows using state-of-the-art floor tracking sensors to vacuum hardwood & carpet.

You’ll never have to worry about missing spots again with 10x the Power-Lifting Suction & Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes that pull in dirt, debris, and pet hair from wherever it hides.

And now compatible with Clean Base! This means you can schedule automatic cleaning mode or activate spot cleaning whenever necessary. With just one touch of a button on your smartphone app, you can even control this robot from anywhere in the world! It is ideal for homes with pets because it has tangle-free brushes that prevent hair tangles and an extra-large capacity bin, so there’s less need to empty as often.

And of course, it is the cheapest robot vacuum for thick carpet model that comes with mapping.

You can get the original Roomba below $300 from Amazon, while a refurbished one is available for around 150$. 

2. Roborock S4 Max Robot Vacuum with Lidar Navigation

Roborock S4 Max Robot Vacuum with Lidar Navigation

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The Roborock S4 Max Robot Vacuum with Lidar Navigation is the most powerful robot vacuum on the market. It has up to 2000Pa of suction power and can clean an area of up to 300sqm in one charge. With its large 460ml trash can, it’s perfect for picking up after messy kids and hairy pets. You can control your cleaning schedule from anywhere using the Roborock App!

The intelligent mapping and navigation system allows the S4 to clean your home thoroughly and efficiently, ensuring every area is cleaned. 

The Roborock S4 Max has been selling like hotcakes since its release. It has even surpassed iRobot Roomba in sales volume. If you are looking for a mighty yet affordable mapping robot vacuum cleaner, then this is the device for you!

Read also: Roborock S6 Pure Robot Vacuum Review

3. Shark RV1001AE Robot Vacuum with IQ Navigation

Shark RV1001AE Robot Vacuum with IQ Navigation

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Shark’s RV1001AE Robot Vacuum is your solution to a clean home without all the hassle. This powerful robot vacuum with mapping and self-empty technology navigates your home, keeping it free of dirt and debris while making sure every inch of your floor is at its peak.

It has a self-emptying base that can hold up to 45 days of dirt and debris, so you don’t have to worry about vacuuming for weeks at a time. The SharkClean app or voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant allows you to schedule whole-home cleanings or target specific rooms or areas to clean right now.

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And the best part? No more hair wrap! The self-cleaning brushroll removes pet hair and long hair as it cleans, so you don’t have to spend hours picking out tangled hair from the vacuum cleaner.

With all the features you need, starting at a price you’ll love, the SHARK ION Robot Vacuum is your solution to a clean home without all the hassle.

You can get the RV1001AE for around $400 from Amazon. 

4. 360 S5 LiDAR Robot Vacuum with Mapping Technology

360 S5 LiDAR Robot Vacuum with Mapping Technology

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Looking for a robot vacuum that’s top of the line? Look no further than the 360 S5 LiDAR! This great appliance has been rated as outstanding by ZDNET, and it’s easy to see why.

With its laser mapping navigation technology, your robot will be able to intelligently navigate your home and map out the most efficient cleaning routes.

Plus, you can set up virtual boundaries and no-go zones to keep your floors clean without any trouble.

With a strong suction power of 2200 Pa, the 360 S5 has a high-efficiency filter and an enlarged trash can that can hold up to 0.5 liters of dirt and debris.

And if you need help customizing your cleaning experience, don’t worry – 360 products come with upgraded customer service. So why wait?

You can get this robot in black or white to go with your home decor.

For just below $200, this crazy robot vacuum is an excellent option for the average family looking to keep their floors perfectly tidy without too much trouble. 

5. iRobot Roomba 981 Robot Vacuum with Mapping

iRobot Roomba 981 Robot Vacuum with Mapping

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The iRobot Roomba 981 Robot Vacuum with Mapping is the perfect addition to any home. It delivers powerful performance and picks up even the deepest dirt and debris. With patented iAdapt technology and vSLAM navigation, it maps your home and cleans in neat rows for a thorough clean.

And with floor tracking sensors, it knows where it’s been and where it needs to go next. The iRobot Roomba 981 Robot Vacuum-Wi-Fi Connected Mapping is ideal for pet owners, allergy sufferers, or anyone who wants a deep clean every time.

It will even recharge and resume cleaning when it needs to, making sure that your floors are immaculate all the time. You can even control it from your smartphone, Amazon Alexa, Apple Watch, or Google Assistant.

And the best part? The Roomba 980 is easy to clean and maintain, so you don’t have to worry about spending hours every week doing it. The Roomba 980 is priced at around $400.

6. eufy by Anker, BoostIQ RoboVac 11S

eufy by Anker, BoostIQ RoboVac 11S

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The all-new Eufy ROBOVAC 11S is the slimmest and smartest robot vacuum from eufy by Anker. BoostIQ technology automatically increases suction power when needed, so you get a big clean with no extra effort.

Its durable glass top cover shields your furniture from contact while sensors detect obstacles to avoid collisions. The cleaner works 8x longer for up to 100 minutes on hardwood floors in a quiet sound that’s just as loud as an operating microwave.

This is so much affordable robot vacuum with excellent cleaning performance. You can get it for around $150 on Amazon.

7. eufy by Anker, RoboVac L70 Hybrid, Robot Vacuum

eufy by Anker, RoboVac L70 Hybrid, Robot Vacuum

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It is the upgraded version of RoboVac 11S. It features an upgraded motor, which produces more powerful suction. With BoostIQ technology, it delivers five levels of suction, so you can get a deep clean with just one touch of a button. 

The L70 will clean for up to 70 minutes, making sure your floors are left perfectly tidy. And with iAdapt navigation technology, it can automatically detect and remember the layout of your home to clean efficiently every time.

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And it’s such an affordable robot vacuum cleaner under $350.

8. Bagotte 4-in-1 Sweep Mop Robot Vacuum

Bagotte 4-in-1 Sweep Mop Robot Vacuum

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A new standard in efficiency, Bagotte 4-in-1 Sweep Mop Robot Vacuum is perfect for any pet owner looking to fill their home with less hair. There’s no need to worry about sweeping anymore with this efficient machine because it does all the work for you!

The BG750 automatically vacuums your entire room, whether carpet or hardwood, while suctioning up more dirt and pet hair than if using a broom.

With its ability to map out homes’ every corner – thanks to gyro navigation technology – Bagotte leaves nothing behind on any floor type, including low-pile carpet or medium-pile carpet.

And this one comes with a super affordable price tag of under $300.

Robot Vacuum Mapping Vs. No Mapping

Robot vacuum mapping is not helpful if your home is laid out in a straight line. The point of the mapping feature is to allow the robot vacuum cleaner to plan its route around your home, working efficiently and thoroughly all at once.

If you have a typical layout with doorways or corners in the room, these features will help your robot vacuum cleaner navigate these obstacles.

If you have a room laid out in a straight line, then the mapping feature won’t be of any use to you. Instead, we recommend getting a robot vacuum without mapping to save you money and provide the same cleaning results.

FAQs:

Are the cheapest robot vacuum deals worth it?

The answer is yes. Even though these products are cheap compared to their counterparts, they still provide the same level of cleaning that you would expect from a robot vacuum.

The biggest difference in price between costly products and cheaper ones is the additional features that make up for the cost, like various smart features, apps, remote operation, mapping capability, etc.

What to look for in cheap robot vacuum deals?

We recommend that you look for robot vacuums that include basic features like self-charging capabilities, multi-floor cleaning, and scheduling.

You can also check the warranty period from the manufacturer to ensure that you’re investing in a product that will last for a long time.

The other thing you can do is, if possible, spend a little more to get a robot vacuum with mapping capability because this feature will help your robot vacuum cleaner to navigate your home more efficiently, thus saving you time and effort.

How long does it take for Robot to map your house?

It depends on the size of your home, but usually, it takes one entire charge cycle (around 2 to 3 hours) for robot vacuum to map your house.

How many sensors are built into robotic vacuum cleaners?

Most robot vacuum cleaners feature at least one laser sensor and a couple of bumper sensors to detect objects around them. They also come with a gyroscope and accelerometer, which help them move around your home.

What is the battery life of a robotic vacuum cleaner?

The battery life varies from unit to unit, but we recommend looking for a product that provides at least 90-120 minutes of battery life.

What is the suction power of a robotic vacuum cleaner?

The suction power of robot vacuum cleaners varies from 500 Pa (pascal) to 3000 Pa, but the industry standard is around 800-1200 Pa. This power is enough to pick up the dust and dirt from your home, even though it might not be as high as you’d expect from a vacuum cleaner.

Conclusion

So, this was our list of the cheapest but best robot vacuum cleaners that you’ll find on Amazon. We’ve included different types of robot vacuum cleaners, so whether you have pets or kids, just go through the list and pick one according to your needs!

Save yourself some cash while getting a great clean with these eight best affordable robot vacuums.

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