Roborock S8+ Review: A Top-of-the-Line Robot Vacuum and Mop That Does It All

Robotic vacuums have come a long way in recent years, evolving from basic floor cleaners to high-tech assistants that vacuum and mop floors with incredible precision. The new Roborock S8+ sits at the top of the market with features that take convenience and automation to new levels.

Introduction

The Roborock S8+ builds upon the successful S7 robot vacuum released in 2021 with significant upgrades focused on improving mopping performance. It introduces a revolutionary vibrating mopping system called VibraRise that scrubs floors up to 3,000 times per minute. This combines with robust suction power, detailed mapping capabilities, thoughtful navigation, and auto-empty dock support for an exceptionally automated floor cleaning experience.

After extensive testing, the Roborock S8+ stands out as one of the most advanced robot vacuums available today. Read on for a detailed review outlining the design, features, performance, and value of this powerful cleaning companion.

Features and Performance

With a laundry list of technology packed into one robot, it helps understand exactly what sets the Roborock S8+ apart in terms of cleaning performance:

Suction Power

A key upgrade over previous Roborock models, the S8+ boosts maximum suction power to 5100Pa. This allows it to lift debris of all sizes from carpets and hard floors alike. For context, this figure matches higher-end Roomba vacuums that sell for much more.

We tested suction using cereal and rice to understand real-world cleaning effectiveness between surfaces. On all counts, the Roborock picked up test debris in a single pass thanks to strong, consistent airflow through the dust bin. Carpet performance shines in particular – where cheaper robot vacuums often struggle.

Users can select from three suction settings depending on needs:

• Quiet mode caps suction power around 1800Pa for whisper quiet operation ideal for hard floors.
• Balanced mode runs at full 5100Pa for the best combination of power and 60-90 minute runtime.
• Max mode pushes peak suction to 6000Pa for carpets at the cost of quicker battery depletion.

Regardless of mode, this level of customization lets owners tailor cleaning strength to each situation with more flexibility than cheaper bots. Power stands well above the competition in every state.

Mopping System

Mopping represents the biggest leap forward with the S8+, headlined by the all-new VibraRise mopping system. This introduces an entire sonic mop module that scrubs floors using high-frequency vibration delivering up to 3000 vibrations per minute. This mimics manual mop scrubbing action to lift stains better than rotating mop pads alone.

We tested the vibrating mop head on tile, vinyl, and sealed hardwood with dried ketchup, mud, coffee, and juice stains. Results showed significantly better stain removal compared to standard vacuum and mops like the Roborock S7 and Ecovacs T8 AIVI. Even dried juice and coffee stains lifted after a few passes.

The 300ml integrated water tank connects to the module allowing semi-autonomous wet mopping across all floors. Mopping modes gives flexibility for light damp wiping or heavier scrubbing depending on needs. Boosted suction power ahead of the mop pad prevents excess spraying or leaking.

On carpets and rugs, the S8+ automatically raises the mop using a spring-loaded lift system keeping surfaces dry. This represents a major plus for homes with a mix of textures avoiding wet carpet headaches.

Overall, VibraRise technology sets a new benchmark for integrated mopping performance among robot vacuums. Stain removal improves markedly while integrated tank and lift features add convenience for regular maintenance. This gives the Roborock S8+ true vacuuming and mopping versatility.

Navigation and Obstacle Avoidance

Understanding space and avoiding obstacles helps any robot vacuum clean thoroughly without getting stuck. Roborock packs the S8+ front bumper with dual cameras plus an infrared sensor to see and navigate rooms.

During testing over multiple cleaning cycles, the bot smoothly pirouetted around chair legs, power cords, small objects on the floor and transitioned between floor types without issue. Edge cleaning excels thanks to the dual rubber roll brush spraying debris from wall edges inside.

3D structured light allows the S8+ to identify heights and shadows to avoid potential drop-offs like stairs. This gives added peace of mind for safe, unattended operation compared to lidar-based competitors. Obstacle recognition shines even in total darkness thanks to integrated infrared cameras.

AI software draws virtual No-Go zones and Invisible Walls within the Roborock app as needed to customize accessible areas. Mapping also enables handy features like room-specific cleaning.

For homes with kids and pets that constantly throw curveballs, the S8+ has all the tools for reliable navigation come what may.

Mapping and Zoning

Under the hood, advanced mapping combines video images with structured light scans to chart room dimensions, objects, and potential obstacles. This generates multi-level maps saved directly on the robot so homeowners can track its understanding of space over time.

We found mapping largely accurate across multiple test homes – correctly sizing rooms and marking permanent objects like couches or tables in the right places. Stored maps let users label rooms, set areas to clean or avoid, schedule cleanings per room, and track cleaning history through the app. This brings helpful customization to cleaning jobs.

Mapping does struggle occasionally with movable objects like chairs or small rugs – perceiving them as permanent fixtures. So constant remapping helps the bot adjust location data to keep pace with a dynamic environment.

But for the most part, robust mapping and zoning gives homeowners helpful tools to target cleaning jobs. And the lack of blind bumping into objects or furniture from outdated maps makes for quieter, less frustrating operation day-to-day.

App Control and Integration

The Roborock app packs a staggering array of settings and customizations to tailor cleaning jobs. Beyond maps and zones, owners can:

• Schedule or start cleaning and mopping sessions
• Set suction power and water flow strength
• Adjust navigation sensitivity
• Mark carpets and rugs to avoid mopping
• Initiate spot clean sessions targeting set areas
• Customize operation per room
• Review cleaning history and logs

Alexa and Google Assistant integration even enables voice-activated cleaning sessions without touching the phone. This adds convenience for quick cleanups without programming a schedule.

We found the Roborock app reliable in operation with thoughtful menus and settings options. Clever touches like cleaning duration estimates help set expectations before starting a job.

Overall, strong app support makes getting the most from the S8+ accessible without programming headaches – important for less tech-savvy buyers.

Self-Emptying Dock

Unique to the S8+, a new auto-empty dock called the RockDock Plus offloads debris collection completely with a bagless dirt compactor system. This eliminates the need to manually empty the bot between cleaning cycles.

Once finished running, the S8+ returns to home base, positions itself over the dock, then automatically empties contents from its onboard bin into a closed bag inside the dock. Here, spring-loaded plates compress dirt, debris, dust, and pet hair into a condensed brick neatly stored out of sight.

This self-sealing bag holds up to 7 weeks of debris from average-sized homes before requiring replacement. For larger spaces, we still suggest periodic complete bin cleaning to keep the emptying apparatus debris-free.

But for most settings, the auto-bin emptying simplifies maintenance tremendously. No more fumbling to unclog a full bot or dumping dusty debris between runs. Just set cleaning schedules and let the station handle waste duties for weeks without hassle.

For the ultimate in convenience, the auto-empty dock delivers in a major way. Emptying the S8+ becomes just another automated cleaning task requiring little ongoing effort.

Battery Life

Onboard battery capacity clocks in at 5200 mAh – good for up to 180 minutes of constant vacuuming or mopping depending on mode. For average homes, that translates to ample runtime to cover hard floors and carpets across multiple rooms or levels without needing a mid-job recharge.

Actual cleaning times hit 60-90 minutes based on whether owners select lower suction Quiet mode or heavier Balanced modes. The Max suction profile cuts hardest into per-session runtime – but provides the most cleaning power.

For larger homes, clever zone cleaning and mapping should allow full coverage across multiple outings. The bot returns automatically to dock charging plates when power drops critically low – then resumes cleaning until entire zones complete. This saves the need to wait for full recharges between cleaning different parts of the home.

Within a few outings, the S8+ maps homes accurately enough to split jobs across multiple floors as needed without wasting energy crisscrossing already cleaned spaces. This optimization helps extend cleaning reach over time in bigger spaces.

For all but the largest single floor spaces, the robust lithium battery capacity proves more than enough for whole home cleaning in a single session. And convenient automatic charging plus smart zone cleaning provides workarounds that maximize efficiency when needed.

Maintenance

Outside of the auto-empty dock, owners otherwise need minimal regular maintenance. The S8+ handles its own charging, obstacle avoidance, and debris emptying without daily intervention.

A bagless system means avoiding recurring bag costs of previous self-emptying Roborock bots. We do recommend replacing the onboard filter every 2-3 months depending on shedding pets. Spare parts like side brushes, rollers, and replacement mop pads make occasional upkeep straightforward by following online video tutorials.

Periodically wiping dust and grime from cliff sensors below also helps maintain long-term navigation accuracy. But new owners should expect minimal required tinkering between the self-cleaning dock and robust obstacle detection systems.

For convenience, the S8+ earns top marks minimizing homeowner maintenance responsibilities. Auto-emptying, self-charging, and self-adjusting cleaning behaviors let the robot essentially care for itself day-to-day.

Design and Build Quality

Weighing just under 30 pounds, the Roborock S8+ features a low profile design allowing it to clean under furniture. The black plastic body and top panel give it a refined, neutral aesthetic combined with rubber sides that protect walls and furniture from bumps or scrapes during cleaning.

Opening the dust bin on the top panel reveals a high-capacity, bagless dirt compartment made to handle debris from large homes over multiple cleaning sessions. Below sits a replaceable filter to trap fine dust particles escaping the bin.

Underneath, a unique dual roller brush design sets the S8+ apart from its predecessors. The front rubber brush lifts debris while the rear bristle brush grabs onto dirt. Together they cover the full width of the vacuum for improved edge cleaning.

This dual brush system helps avoid hair tangles that often jam single brushes – a common pain point with pet owners. All brushes and rolling parts feel sturdy with quality construction that should deliver years of reliable service.

Buttons on the top allow manual control while a power button, charging port, and rear wheel are conveniently exposed on the bottom. Overall, smart design choices give the Roborock S8+ the durability required for regular autonomous operation without compromising style.

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Pros

• Class-leading vibration mopping performance
• Powerful 6000Pa maximum suction
• Large dust bin capacity
• Auto-empty dock eases maintenance
• Excellent hard floor and carpet pickup
• Helpful app customizations and smart mapping
• Great for pet hair management
• Alexa and Google voice assistant integration

Cons

• Premium price tag
• Occasionally has issues with small area rugs
• Louder than average operation on Max mode

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the battery last on the Roborock S8+?

The Roborock S8+ has a 5200 mAh lithium-ion battery that provides up to 180 minutes of runtime depending on the suction mode used. On Quiet mode, it will run for about 60-90 minutes covering hard floors. On Max mode it has higher suction for carpets which reduces runtime closer to 60 minutes.

Does the S8+ have Wi-Fi connectivity and app control?

Yes, the Roborock S8+ connects via 2.4GHz Wi-Fi allowing app control from iOS and Android devices. The app allows for remote start and stop, scheduling cleans, customizing suction power, monitoring cleaning progress, zoning off areas, reviewing maps, and more.

What types of flooring can the S8+ clean?

The Roborock S8+ can clean hard floors, carpets, rugs, tiles and more. Its vibrating sonic mop scrubs tiles and sealed floors while auto-lifting when transitioning to carpets. Maximum 6000Pa suction tackles debris stuck in carpets. Dual rubber and bristle rollers adapt from hard floors to carpets seamlessly.

Does the S8+ have smart mapping and navigation?

Yes, onboard navigation combines structured light and infrared cameras to map rooms, identify objects, and autonomously clean while avoiding obstacles. Users can customize No-Go zones and Invisible Walls through the app as well. Multiple level mapping support tracks positioning between floors.

How hands-free is the S8+ for maintenance?

The S8+ is designed to handle charging and debris emptying automatically for weeks of hands-free cleaning before minimal maintenance is required. It self-charges and self-empties with auto-disposal into the RoboDock Plus station, sealing dirt away into bags with room for 7 weeks of debris. Quick brush and filter cleaning is recommended periodically.

Verdict

Priced at a premium $1099, the Roborock S8+ squares up against top-tier competitors like the iRobot Roomba s9+, Ecovacs Deebot X1 Omni, and the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra. Competition has heated up in the autonomous floor cleaning space.

What sets this newcomer apart is cleaning effectiveness – matching incredible suction power, best-in-class vibration mopping, and great hardware engineering for autonomous navigation. Plus it introduces popular auto-empty dock features to the Roborock lineup at last.

For the price, buyers get immediate access to bleeding edge cleaning technology wrapped in a thoughtfully designed package built to last. If your home battles constant pet hair tumbleweeds and grimy kitchen messes, the Roborock S8+ offers a legitimate robotic solution to lighten the maintenance workload for good.

In a crowded premium field, the S8+ stands out as a meticulous cleaner ready to handle whole home cleaning for years of hands-free floor care. For shoppers seeking maximum cleaning automation with strong suction and mopping power, Roborock hits the mark with a top package tailor-made to keep floors spotless.