So many vacuum cleaners, so little time to try them all out. No worries – we've shortlisted the best vacuum cleaners in Singapore so you don't have to!
NEATO BOTVAC D85, $899
"Instead of going off in random directions, the Neato Botvac D85 cleaned floors methodically and systematically, docking itself when it was done. Compared to the others, it took less time to clean a common floor area, and the floors were very clean. It picked up flour and cereal crumbs most efficiently. It didn’t have revolving brushes like the other machines did, but it picked up dust quickly instead of pushing it around. Although it did occasionally miss some partially obstructed spots, it rather ingeniously raised itself to mount the base of my standing fan in order to clean the surface," says this reviewer.
ELECTROLUX PUREi9, $1,599
With laser technology, the Electrolux PUREi9 is able to detect obstacles in a 3-D format and avoids unnecessary collisions, getting stuck or falling off stairs. The 3-D Mapping technology also defines parameters clearly, resulting in better assessment of the area to be cleaned. Its ClimbForceDrive gives the vacuum the ability to analyse and climb ledges or steps of up to 2.2cm in height (the highest in the market to date) This robot is also able to adjust its speed according to the type of floor, and has eight sets of long and dense PowerBrush bristles, it reaches easily into corners and along walls.
LG HOM-BOT SQUARE, $1,299
With the success of the original Hom-Bot design, LG has stepped up its game with a new and improved version. The Hom-Bot Square not only cleans as well as its predecessor, but it also has a Dual Eye 2.0 function that calculates the intensity of light and scans the ceilings in order to take clear shots of the room, to minimise wandering. Its Corner Detection system, square body and longer brushes enable it to reach tight corners more effectively, compared to round robotic cleaners. Its Ultrasonic Sensor also scans for obstacles, including glass or transparent objects, to ensure it does not collide with furniture or topple that antique Ming vase in the living room.
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LG HOM-BOT TURBO+, $1,599
Said to be the first wi-fi enabled robotic vacuum cleaner with monitoring functions in Singapore, the LG Hom-Bot Turbo is fitted with three cameras and can be remotely controlled anytime, anywhere. It doubles as a surveillance camera so you can use it to keep an eye on your pet, kids or elderly folks while you’re away. The ultrasonic sensors recognize obstacles – even glass– in its proximity and minimise collisions. It can weave its way out of tight spaces, back out from bumps, and detect ledges to prevent falling or getting stuck on door frames.
IROBOT ROOMBA 690, $898
The iRobot Roomba 690 can be controlled via the iRobot's Home app which allows you to schedule cleaning sessions, get notifications, track its cleaning cycles, and have access to customised tips and customer support. The Roomba 890 is equipped with the dual, counter-rotating Tangle-Free rubber Extractors which capture dirt and hair from any floor type. It also has a Gen 2 motor that is five times more powerful than the one found in the 600 and 700 series. The Roomba 690 relies on the patented 3-Stage Cleaning System to clean carpet, rugs and hard floors. Its low height enables cleaning to be done under most furniture and kickboards.
PANASONIC MC-RS1A-W, $1,599
The triangular shape of the Panasonic MC-RS1A-W enables it to clean tricky corners of your room. It measures 92mm high and has a run time of 100 minutes on a full charge. It is equipped with smart obstacle detection and a dust sensor. With its large wheels, this cleaner can climb over thick carpets or uneven floorings up to 20mm difference in height (depending on floor material and shape).
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PHILIPS SMARTPRO ACTIVE ROBOT, $799
The Philips SmartPro Active Robot vacuum cleaner promises to clean two times faster thanks to the TriActive XL brushless nozzle, strong suction power with a 1800Pa Turbo mode and a three-step cleaning system with dry mopping. Equipped with six infrared sensors that help to detect and avoid obstacles such as lamps and cables, the machine can clean independently without any supervision. It also offers a weekly scheduling function, a great feature for busy homeowners.
PHILIPS SMARTPRO EASY ROBOT, $449
The Philips SmartPro Easy Robot Vacuum Cleaner impresses with its three-step cleaning system that includes a wet mopping function and 600Pa of suction power. The Smart Detection System has over 20 sensors and an accelerometer, allowing it to clean the entire house unsupervised. The Ultra Hygiene EPA12 filter promises to capture 99.5 per cent of fine dust particles while filtering the exhaust air, ensuring not only clean floors but also clean indoor air for the entire family.
SAMSUNG POWERBOT VR7000, $1,299
The Powerbot VR7000 is designed such that its bristle brush is placed very close to the front of the cleaner so that it can even clean along wall edges. It measures 97mm high and should be able to go under most sofas and beds. Its automatic charge function enables it to return to its charging station when necessary. Once fully charged, it will return to its last location to resume cleaning.
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SAMSUNG POWERBOT STAR WARS VR7000, FROM $949
Very similar to the original Samsung Powerbot VR7000, this Star Wars Special Edition robot vacuum cleaner come in the shape of Darth Vader or a Stormtrooper. To inject more fun and entertaining elements, both models offer sound effects. For example, when powering on the Darth Vader unit, the vacuum will play and mimic the character's infamous breathing.