Robot vacuum cleaners: which ones are available and tips for choosing the right model for your home.

Sweeping, mopping, and vacuuming are some of the household chores that tend to be a chore, especially when time is short. In this context, robot vacuum cleaners have become one of the most desirable household appliances over the years, for several reasons: they're small, smart, and capable of cleaning autonomously even when you're not home.

Robot vacuum cleaners emerged as an alternative to conventional models that depend directly on the user. They are equipped with sensors and suction motors that allow them to navigate the dimensions of any home, avoid obstacles, detect steps , and clean the floor, even under furniture. Some only sweep; others also vacuum, scrub, and mop.

Over time and with technology, these products have evolved to offer a more automated experience: they can be programmed using mobile apps for iOS and Android , and many now integrate virtual assistants like Alexa or Google Home to receive voice commands.

Beyond its features and price, choosing this type of connected home product depends on several key factors, including the size of the home, whether there are carpets, pets, or children, and the level of autonomy you're looking for.

The first factor to consider, of course, is suction power . It's measured in pascals (Pa) and determines how well it can absorb dirt, crumbs, or hair. For homes with carpets or pets, it's a good idea to choose models with more than 2000 Pa.

There are basic robots with infrared sensors that detect sofas, walls, or falls. But the most advanced ones incorporate LiDAR technology —like iPhones—or 2D maps, which allow for intelligent cleaning with zone planning.

Most have a battery life that ranges from 60 to 160 minutes . For large homes, a powerful battery of at least 2,600 mAh is recommended, as well as a robot that can automatically return to its base to recharge itself.

If your home has a lot of square footage, carpets, or pets, it's important to choose a model with a good dust and water tank . And if it can empty automatically, even better.

HEPA filters are key for allergy sufferers. This technology, found in air conditioners and purifiers, captures fine dust particles.

Finally, connectivity and noise. Several robots have dedicated mobile apps that allow you to schedule cleanings, control everything remotely, and receive notifications.

If you're looking for a cleaning option that won't disturb pets or children, look for models that operate between 55 and 70 decibels (dB). Keep in mind: traditional vacuum cleaners produce 90 dB.

There are several robot vacuum cleaner options on the local market, adapting to different homes, budgets, and cleaning needs. Among the most notable are those from Cecotec, Gadnic, Ezviz, and iRobot , each with unique features.

The Spanish brand Cecotec recently brought its Conga 2499 Ultra Genesis model to the country, recognized for its excellent price-performance ratio.

It offers up to 2100 Pa of suction, multiple cleaning modes (edge, spiral, random, scrubbing, and more), smart scrubbing, a mop with adjustable water flow rates, gyroscopic navigation, and up to 160 minutes of runtime. It's ideal for hard floors and carpets and includes app control.

One of the most complete domestic models is the Gadnic Z900 . It has 6000 Pa suction power, 2D mapping, anti-collision sensors, a noise level below 45 dB, app or remote control, a mop function with a 350 ml water tank, and a smart self-charging system. Its slim design (7.4 cm high) allows it to clean under furniture and in difficult-to-reach corners.

For those looking for a quiet, powerful, and well-equipped option, there's the Ezviz RE4 . It features efficient vacuuming and mopping, adjusts power based on carpet detection, and features infrared sensors that avoid obstacles in real time.

Another difference is the ability to control the robot via an app and voice commands (Alexa and Google Home). It also allows you to plan customized cleaning routes.

The most sophisticated - and expensive - option is the Roomba i3+ model from iRobot, an American firm specializing in the design of robotic devices.

Thanks to its self-emptying base with AllergenLock bags, users can forget about emptying the bin for up to two months. It features a three-stage cleaning system with two multi-surface rubber brushes, Dirt Detect sensors that identify dirtier areas , and a smart, organized path.

It also detects boundaries and avoids getting stuck on furniture. When it needs to be charged, it automatically returns to its base, recharges, and resumes working from where it left off.