The many global Xiaomi robot vacuums compared (2023)

In the world of home automation, robotic vacuum cleaners have become an essential tool for keeping your home clean and tidy with minimal effort. Xiaomi, a leading player in the tech industry, has a range of robot vacuums to choose from. With so many options, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for your needs. That is why we are here to help. In this article, we will compare Xiaomi's robot vacuum cleaners, breaking down their features and specs to give you a comprehensive overview of what's available in 2023. Whether you're a tech-savvy individual looking for the latest in home cleaning technology or simply someone in need of a reliable cleaning assistant, this article has you covered.

This comparison features only the vacuums released under Xiaomi and Mi branding, excluding those from subsidiary brands such as Roborock and Viomi. Note that this comparison is not a review of individual vacuums, but rather a comparison based on official specifications and our research. While we have done our best to ensure accuracy, we cannot guarantee complete correctness. You are welcome to provide feedback and suggestions in the comments section at the end of this comparison.

Brief overview of Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners

You may not know this, but Xiaomi doesn't manufacture their robot vacuum cleaners in-house. Instead, they work with partners and companies in which they invest. Historically, Roborock was a frequent collaborator with Xiaomi, but as their own brand has gained popularity, this has changed. Currently, Dreame and 3irobotics produce the majority of Xiaomi's line-up, and more recently, Shunzao Technology has also joined as a collaborator on both robot and wireless stick vacuum cleaners.

Vacuum cleaning features

The table below highlights the vacuuming features of Xiaomi's robot vacuum cleaners, including the rated suction power, dustbin size, and compatibility with an auto-emptying dock. It's important to keep in mind that as Xiaomi works with multiple manufacturers, testing procedures may vary from vacuum to vacuum. Therefore, real-world results may differ from lab numbers.

Battery life

The data for the following numbers is based on the vacuum running in standard mode and at the lowest water setting. It's important to keep in mind that this testing was done in a controlled environment without any obstacles, so real-world battery life may differ. Factors such as the size of the cleaning area, the presence of furniture and other obstacles, and the frequency of use can all impact battery performance.

Mopping features

Xiaomi's globally available robot vacuum cleaners are equipped with three different types of mops: rotating pads, sonic vibration mops, and standard mops. While the standard mop is limited to merely dragging a wet cloth behind it, the rotating pads and sonic vibration mops offer a superior cleaning experience. The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ is unique in that it features a lifting mechanism for the mop, so you can keep it attached at all times without fear of dampening your carpets.

Navigation Features

The laser distance sensor is a crucial feature of any modern robot vacuum cleaner, as it enables the device to detect large objects in its path and map rooms by detecting walls. The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ takes this technology a step further with the addition of line laser sensors and an AI visual identification sensor, allowing the machine to detect and classify smaller objects in its path. The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra's time of flight sensor measures the distance to smaller objects in front of the unit, further enhancing its navigation capabilities

Why you want a Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner in your smart home

A robot vacuum cleaner is the perfect addition to a modern and smart household. It operates autonomously, freeing up your time for other activities, as you can easily schedule cleaning times or start a cycle with the push of a button. Its scheduling feature means that your home remains clean regularly, even when you're busy or away. By removing dirt, dust, and allergens from your floor, it can improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens, promoting a healthier living environment.

Why a thorough comparison of Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners is needed

The purpose of this article is to help you make an informed decision when planning to purchase any of the current globally available Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners. It is necessary to compare the features of each Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner, as there is no clear hierarchy and Xiaomi uses multiple OEMs to manufacture them. There is no stand-out best model. For example, the X10+ might seem the most fully featured, but the S10T has a more powerful suction. The S10T, however, lacks a auto-emptying docking station, which the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 has. I can't tell you which one to choose, as it will depend on what flooring you have in your smart home, and what you expect your robot vacuum cleaner to do.

Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ (international version of the Mijia All-round Sweeping Robot)

The latest addition to Xiaomi's line of smart home helpers, the Robot Vacuum X10+, is a shining example of the Chinese electronics company's prowess. Packed with all the features you'd expect from a top-notch robot vacuum, it boasts obstacle detection and avoidance, advanced mopping capabilities, the ability to recognize carpets, and an auto-cleaning docking station.

Class-leading navigation features

The most striking feature of the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ is also what might lead some to stay well clear of it: a fully featured RGB camera. This camera is part of Xiaomi's S-Cross AI 3D object detection and avoidance system. The camera is flanked by two line laser sensors, which can detect obstacles in the 20 – 600 mm range. As with most modern robot vacuum cleaners, the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ also features a laser distance sensor, which can measure object distances in the 0.12 – 6 m range. This sensor is used to map the rooms of your smart home and helps the machine build a map for more efficient path planning.

Turning the X10+ over, you will find two rotating pads instead of a mop, which reviewers claim is a more effective cleaning solution that removes stains and dirt with ease. Gone are the days when a robot vacuum cleaner would simply dampen the floor, this machine will actually succeed in removing stains and traces of dirt. The pads rotate at 180 rpm and a downwards force will make sure every nook and cranny is cleaned. Just as we have seen in more recent Roborock models, the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ will automatically detect carpets and lift the pads 7 mm off the ground, allowing it to easily avoid carpets up to 5 mm. In conjunction with rising, the pads will logically also stop rotating, as there isn't any cleaning to be done. If you want to avoid carpets altogether, the app allows you to do this.

On the X10+ itself, there are two buttons – one to start cleaning and the other to send it back to the auto-emptying dock. You can customize your cleaning routine through the app, choosing which rooms receive a more intense cleaning and which receive a lighter touch. Whether you want the X10+ to clean the kitchen a little harder or any other room, you have full control through the app.

Every Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ comes with an auto-emptying and auto-cleaning dock

The auto-emptying dock, which is part of the package, is equipped with three tanks: one for clean water, one for dirty water, and one for dust. Unfortunately, there is no option to configure this dock to use a bagless design with cyclone filter, as is the option on competitors such as the Roborock S7 MaxV. The dock is narrow and tall, allowing it to be conveniently hidden away, with its white color and curved design blending well with most contemporary interiors.

The rotating pads of the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ might provide a more effective cleaning experience compared to the standard mops found on other Xiaomi robot vacuums, but they are not designed to replace a deep weekly clean with a traditional mop. It's worth noting that the rotating pads are incapable of removing substantial dirt or grime. However, the self-cleaning feature helps keep the pads fresh and the dryer feature helps prevent mold growth.

Mapping with the Xiaomi Robot Vacumm X10+

The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ excels in mapping, a crucial aspect for any robot vacuum cleaner. With its laser distance sensor housed in the top pod, the unit can easily detect walls, doors, and other large obstacles. The app's quick map creation feature lets you have the X10+ explore your space before it starts cleaning, allowing it to quickly create a map and put it into use. In larger rooms, it will divide the space into smaller areas and clean each one systematically.

Potential issues with the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+

The first-run experience with the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+'s auto-emptying dock has left some reviewers and customers disappointed. They have reported that the dock fails to supply clean water to the vacuum, due to a dry pump. While this problem can be resolved through manual intervention, such as injecting the pump with water using a syringe or power cycling the dock, it is a surprising inconvenience for a high-end device. This is not the level of quality one would expect from a premium product, and raises questions about the reliability and durability of the dock.

Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10T (international version of the Mijia Anti-winding Sweep Drag Robot)

The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10T, which was released a few months prior to the X10+, stands out for its powerful suction power. With a reported suction power of up to 8000 Pa, this model outpaces even the recently announced Roborock S8 series. The S10T also foregoes the Mi branding and offers a straightforward approach. This powerful suction capability sets the S10T apart from the X10+ and other robot vacuum cleaners on the market.

The first Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner with anti-tangle technology

Xiaomi boasts of its patented anti-tangle technology in their Robot Vacuum S10T, which prevents hair from getting tangled around the roller brush. No more messy and time-consuming clean-up of your robot vacuum cleaner - the anti-tangle technology keeps it running smoothly and efficiently. Produced by Shunzao Technology, this vacuum cleaner stands apart from others made by Roborock, 3irobotocs, Dreame, or Viomi. The Xiaomi Group has heavily invested in Shunzao Technology, known for their development of cordless stick vacuums for the Mijia line.

Where the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ beats other Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaners

The suction power of 8000 Pa sets the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10T apart from the rest, with no other major manufacturer offering such power in their robotic vacuums. Although there are niche products like the 2-in-1 Smart Robotic Mopping Robot Vacuum by HomeViz, they can't match the brand recognition of Xiaomi. While the vacuum capabilities are highly regarded, the mopping function is a bit lackluster, simply dragging a damp rag along as it cleans.

Why the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10T is difficult to recommend

Despite offering features commonly found in high-end, class-leading models, the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10T falls short in a few key areas. Most notably, it lacks an auto-emptying dock and is incompatible with any other docks available on the market. Additionally, the lack of object recognition and reliance solely on the laser distance sensor and bumper for navigation make this model less impressive compared to others, like the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra, which offer these features.

However, there is hope for the future. A potential upgraded X10+, incorporating the strong suction power of the S10T along with a rotating or vibrating mop, object recognition and avoidance, and an auto-emptying dock, could make for a formidable alternative to the recently announced Roborock S8 series and other high-end models.

Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra (international version of the Mijia Dust Collection Robot)

An auto-emptying dock is a major advantage for robot vacuums, as the dustbin can fill up quickly, especially when cleaning larger floors. Xiaomi's Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra features an auto-emptying dock, albeit a more basic version compared to the high-end Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+, emptying the dustbin after cleaning, but leaving the mop untouched. The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra was the first robot vacuum from Xiaomi to offer this convenience. Despite its simplicity, this feature often proves to be all that's needed for a hassle-free cleaning experience.

Object avoidance in a cheaper package

Just like the X10+, the Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra boasts object detection and avoidance using a time-of-flight (ToF) camera that doesn't record full-colour images, making it a great option for privacy-conscious users. However, its accuracy may be affected by environmental light. On a more positive note, it doesn't need light to function and can navigate seamlessly in low light conditions. The camera does have limitations though, as it struggles to detect objects lying flat on the ground such as cables and socks.

The Mop 2 Ultra only comes in black, which may not appeal to everyone. The piano black plastic is also a magnet for fingerprints. The same can be said for the auto-emptying docking station, which exclusively comes in black. The overall design is similar to other round robot vacuums on the market, with the pod housing the laser distance sensor located at the front. Two buttons on the unit control the cleaning routine and send it back to the dock.

Unimpressive mopping

The mopping feature on the Mop 2 Ultra is basic, lacking vibrations or rotation, and simply dragging along. Xiaomi has implemented a Y-pattern cleaning mode, but the results won't compare to more premium models with more advanced features. The mop can't be lifted, so it may drag over carpets. The pump is electronically controlled and can be adjusted via the app for the desired amount of water usage.

Where the Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra competes with the X10+

The vacuum cleaning performance of the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10T is noteworthy, boasting a suction power of 4000 Pa that is on par with the X10+. Its large 550 ml dustbin allows for extended cleaning sessions, and when paired with the auto-emptying dock (which has a capacity of 4 l), you won't have to worry about constant dustbin emptying. However, do note that an alternative dustbin with a smaller size of 400 ml is necessary when using the auto-emptying dock.

The replacement dustbin features two openings for the auto-emptying dock, as it features a two-lane dust collection design. In layman's terms, it will simultaneously blow clean air into the dustbin, as it suck the dust out. This does have advantages, although it leaves the HEPA filter in the dock untouched. An additional feature Xiaomi's Vacuum-Mop 2 Auto-empty Station has, is a simple one, but we wished every dock had: a button to start the robot vacuum cleaner.

Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro

The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro is one of the models built by the OEM 3irobotics and sold under the Xiaomi brand. It, along with many other robot vacuum cleaners, such as the Viomi V2, Wyze Robot Vacuum, and Conga 3290 are all based on the same model. However, it does have a feature not many others do: high-frequency sonic vibration mopping. Similar to what is found on Roborock's S7 series, the mop on the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro vibrates up to 166 times every second, allowing it to remove stubborn stains on hard floors.

The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro does multiple floors

Another feature the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro has in common with Roborock models, is the ability to map multiple floors. Having a robot vacuum cleaner that can map multiple floors provides several benefits. First, it allows the vacuum to create a detailed map of each floor, which can be used to clean each area more effectively and efficiently. For example, the vacuum can avoid repeating the same areas, optimize its cleaning path, and clean in a specific sequence. Additionally, with a multi-floor map, users can create virtual barriers, set no-go zones, and schedule cleaning for specific rooms or areas. Furthermore, the ability to switch between multiple floor maps makes it easier to clean different levels of a multi-story home without the need to manually adjust settings or switch between cleaning modes. Overall, multi-floor mapping allows for greater control, customization, and convenience in the cleaning process.

Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2S

The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2S is similar to the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite, with the addition of a laser distance sensor. Despite its name suggesting an upgrade over the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2, it falls short in terms of suction power, at 2200 Pa, and its smaller dustbin (300 ml) and water tank (200 ml) limit its efficiency. On the plus side, the vacuum-mop uses a Y-shaped mopping pattern to clean every inch from multiple angles, but this makes the process time-consuming.

Like the Mi Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro, the Mi Vacuum-Mop 2S is capable of storing multiple floors, a feature that isn't found on all alternatives. However, due to its small battery, you are unlikely to be able to cover multiple floors on a single charge. To put things into context, this model's battery has half the capacity of the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra and Pro.

Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2

Xiaomi's Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 is a budget robot vacuum cleaner with a mop attachment. Despite its low price, it features a motor capable of a 2700 Pa suction power and a high-speed visual navigation system. Due to this model relying on an actual camera, which is capable of capturing images of your home and anyone that might be nearby it, Xiaomi has ensured that it meets the ETSI EN 303 645 standard.

Compared to its predecessor, it is an all-round upgrade, with a larger battery, beefier battery, and a pressurized mopping module, but it does fall flat when compared to other models in Xiaomi's line-up. Especially the lack of a laser distance sensor puts the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 at a disadvantage. If possible, consider the Mi Robot-Mop 2 Pro for a better experience.

Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite

The Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite is the most basic model of the series. It features what is now considered a weak suction power of 2,200 Pa and uses an upwards facing camera for navigation. Besides cost, the only reason to go with the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite is its relatively low height. At only 81.3 cm, it is capable of reaching places other robot vacuum cleaners, especially those with a laser distance sensor, could never reach. Though if feasible, the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 at 93 mm is the all-round better option.

The lack of a laser distance sensor does mean that the Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite will crash into objects to detect them. Reviewers have noted that the lack of advanced navigation capabilities makes this model only suited for already clean homes, i.e. those that need a little touch-up every now and again. It is not a good choice if you have pets or smaller children that like to leave toys out on the floor.

Conclusion

If you're in the market for a reliable robot vacuum cleaner, Xiaomi's line-up has several options to choose from. Depending on your specific needs, each model offers its own set of advantages and drawbacks:

• The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum X10+ is a top-performing option, offering great suction power, mopping capabilities, and an auto-emptying and auto-cleaning dock. It's a great choice for those looking for a fully autonomous model.
• The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Ultra is a viable alternative to the X10+ if mopping isn't a top priority. It offers equal suction power and an auto-emptying dock.
• The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Pro is better for mopping, but not as efficient at vacuum cleaning. This model is a good option for homes with mostly hard floors.
• The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2S is a budget-friendly choice, with a laser distance sensor, a feature not commonly found in more affordable models.
• The Xiaomi Robot Vacuum S10T is recommended only if you have thick carpets in your home. It lacks the auto-emptying dock, and its mopping function is not as advanced as other models.
• The Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 and Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2 Lite, on the other hand, lack laser distance sensors, which have become standard in most modern models. Mapping is an important feature, and visual navigation sensors can't compare. These models also have the downside of constantly taking photos of their surroundings, which may not be suitable for those with privacy concerns.