How to choose a robot vacuum
- Navigation first. LiDAR maps your home in one run and cleans room by room. Avoid gyro-only models if you want no-go zones.
- Suction to about 5,000 Pa matters. Above that, brush design and airflow decide pet-hair and carpet results more than the headline number.
- A self-emptying dock means weeks between bin changes. Mop-washing docks add hot-water cleaning but take more floor space.
- Measure under your furniture. Robots under 10 cm tall clear most Australian couches and beds.
- Count the running costs. Dock bags, filters and brushes add up to a yearly cost in AUD. Check they're sold here.
Our robot vacuum buying guide explains each spec in detail, and you can compare models side by side.
How we researched this
We shortlisted robot vacuums sold by Australian retailers with a local warranty. Then we compared manufacturer specs and checked current AUD prices at JB Hi-Fi, Amazon AU, brand stores and price-comparison sites. We also read independent reviews from Australian testers and owner feedback on OzBargain. We didn't test these robots ourselves; when we do, this page will say so.
Common questions
What is the best robot vacuum in Australia right now?
For most homes, the Ecovacs Deebot X8 Pro Omni at $999 (JB Hi-Fi, checked 28 September 2026). It vacuums and mops well, and its dock empties the bin and washes the mop for you.
How much should I spend on a robot vacuum?
Around $500 gets LiDAR mapping and a self-emptying dock, like the Xiaomi X20+. Around $1,000 adds strong mopping and better obstacle avoidance. Spend $2,000 or more only for heavy carpet, high thresholds or lots of pet hair.
Are robot vacuums good for pet hair?
Yes, if they run daily and have a tangle-resistant brush. Rubber or anti-tangle rollers matter more than raw suction numbers once you're above about 5,000 Pa.
Do robot vacuums work on carpet?
On low and medium pile, yes. Thick or shaggy rugs need high suction and a robot that can climb, like the Roborock Saros 20. Use no-go zones for rugs with tassels.
What warranty do robot vacuums have in Australia?
Most carry a 1 to 2 year manufacturer's warranty; JB Hi-Fi lists 30 months on the Ecovacs X8 Pro Omni. The Australian Consumer Law also covers major faults for a reasonable time, beyond the written warranty.