The Eufy RoboVac 11S has consistently held its ground as a top contender in the budget robot vacuum market since its release. As an updated, slimmer version of the popular RoboVac 11, it promises powerful, efficient cleaning in a compact design without breaking the bank. This review dives into what makes the 11S a standout, its core strengths, areas where it falls short, and whether it truly earns the title of “best budget robot vacuum” in today’s competitive landscape.
Design and Key Features: Slim, Simple, and Surprisingly Quiet
One of the most praised aspects of the Eufy RoboVac 11S is its exceptionally slim profile. Measuring just 2.8 inches tall, it’s designed to effortlessly glide under low-clearance furniture like sofas, coffee tables, and cabinets, reaching dirt and dust bunnies that often escape bulkier robot vacuums. This compact form factor is a significant advantage for homes with such obstacles.
A slim Eufy RoboVac 11S robot vacuum cleaning dust under a sofa.
The 11S maintains a straightforward, frills-free approach. It operates via an included remote control, which allows users to set cleaning schedules and adjust suction power. While it lacks advanced smart features like app control, virtual barriers, or voice assistant integration, this simplicity contributes to its ease of use and affordability. Underneath, it features two spin brushes, a rolling brush, and main treads, along with drop sensors to prevent falls.
Perhaps its most remarkable feature is its quiet operation. The RoboVac 11S runs at approximately 55 decibels, which is quieter than a normal conversation and comparable to a household refrigerator. This means it can clean without significantly disrupting daily activities, making it ideal for use while you’re home.
Cleaning Performance: What Can It Handle?
When it comes to dirt and debris pickup, the Eufy RoboVac 11S generally performs admirably, especially considering its price point. It demonstrates strong cleaning performance on bare floors, effectively picking up both small debris like rice and larger particles such as cereal. Tests have shown it can pick up a substantial amount of dirt per run, rivaling the performance of some more expensive models. The vacuum also features BoostIQ suction mode, which automatically increases suction power when it detects carpeted floors, optimizing its cleaning strength across different surfaces.
Eufy RoboVac 11S robot vacuum transitioning from hard floor to a low-pile carpet while cleaning.
Its navigation system employs “bounce technology,” meaning it moves in straight lines until it encounters an obstacle, then changes direction. While not as methodical as some high-end mapping robots, this approach still ensures good coverage over time, reaching most areas of a room.
However, its performance can be inconsistent, particularly with certain types of debris and surfaces. Some reports indicate that it can be disappointing at cleaning hair and small debris on low-pile carpets, with hair sometimes getting tangled around the brushroll. It can also occasionally get caught on throw rugs, which might require user intervention. The absence of virtual barriers means manual obstruction is necessary to cordon off areas you don’t want it to clean.
Battery Life and Maintenance
The RoboVac 11S offers a solid battery life, typically providing up to 100 minutes of cleaning on a single charge in standard mode. This runtime is usually sufficient for cleaning most apartments or a single floor of a house. When the battery runs low, it automatically returns to its charging dock.
Maintenance involves regularly emptying its 0.6L dustbin and cleaning the filter, which can be rinsed. While the dust compartment is adequately sized for a robot vacuum, some users find the recurring costs for filter and brush replacements to be a consideration.
The Verdict: Still a Best Budget Option?
The Eufy RoboVac 11S stands as an excellent choice for those seeking an affordable, no-frills robot vacuum. Its key strengths—a compact design that excels at cleaning under low furniture, remarkably quiet operation, and strong performance on bare floors—make it a compelling option. It offers significant value, delivering effective automated cleaning without the premium price tag.
While it lacks the advanced features and sophisticated navigation found in pricier models, and its performance on pet hair and certain carpets might not be top-tier, the 11S consistently delivers where it counts for a budget device: consistent dirt pickup and hassle-free operation. For homeowners with mostly bare floors or low-pile carpets, minimal pet hair concerns, and a desire for straightforward automated cleaning, the Eufy RoboVac 11S remains one of the best budget robot vacuums available. Its combination of low price and high performance solidifies its position as a favorite for cost-conscious consumers.
