Robot vacuums are a great value purchase if you are looking to simplify your routine and improve the quality of your home living. It’s a small home appliance that is known to do great work and is loved for its appealing aesthetic that is both modern and functional.
Many robot vacuums these days are also multi-faceted, including some with hybrid designs and mopping capabilities. Other robots are more synonymous with AI and advanced sensors, which can provide access to unique features such as no go zones, custom cleaning modes, and smart mapping.
High-end robot vacuums may also feature an increased power lifting suction capacity, a self-emptying dock station, great battery life and more! On top of this, you’ll notice that the best units are simply quiet in nature. It’s almost like a hallmark for smart tech.
Read here for information on the best robot and mop vacuum.
Wondering which robot vacuum is the best for pet hair? Read here.
How Does a Robot Vacuum Work?
Robot vacuums work in a variety of ways. But the defining feature of a robot vacuum is still the mapping system used for navigation. Most cleaners sport a plastic chassis and lithium-ion batteries that will keep them running anywhere between an hour or two. The exterior can be a mix of plastic, metal or other sturdy but light material. A great robot vacuum might go even beyond that in terms of build.
Beneath the unit, you’ll typically find one or two spinning brushes along with a rolling brush. These brushes collect dust, allergens, dirt and other microscopic debris. This simple but proven mechanism will funnel these agents into the suction point at the center of the equipment. It repeats the cycle until the room is cleaned or the robot needs to recharge.
Some robot vacuums is also a hybrid with well-rounded hands-free cleaning capabilities. These units will have additional features or accessories such as mopping pads, counter-rotating brush, docking station and water tank among others. Naturally, this makes combo units cost more.
There’s a lot more going on in every unit, of course. In fact, some of the best robot vacuums offer features that is unavailable in an advanced upright vacuum or other smart devices.
Robot Vacuum Cleaner Noise Level
Noise is not a prevalent issue in robot vacuum cleaners. It’s a home appliance that is compact by design with smaller chassis. Therefore, it rarely gets as loud as a traditional vacuum.
Still, there are quiet robot vacs configured to produce no more than 65 decibels (dB). Some can even go as low as 50dB! In a different environment, that noise level is only as loud as standard air conditioning from a hundred feet!
There are many reasons why you might want your robot vacuum quieter during cleaning sessions. For example, you have an infant at home or you’re working remotely. Unchecked noise level is also a known stress agent. Thus, you can always do away with less.
About Noise Emission
Noise emission in robot vacuums can be attributed to the following factors: hardware or build of the robot vacuum, suction power being used and the surface being cleaned.
The noise emission level you’ll find in the product description indicates the lowest or quietest operating mode available in your robot vacuum. Some manufacturers will label this as silent mode.
For example, your unit can have up to 2,300 Pa suction power but will also operate at just 600 Pa in its lowest setting. This minimum set up is deemed as the quietest mode of your robot vacuum.
The quietest robot vacuums tend to be compact in size, but that doesn’t mean that larger models can’t perform their task in peace. There are plenty of noise-neutral robot vacuums these days that come in different shapes and sizes.
Top 18 Quietest Robot Vacuums for Your Peace of Mind
Eufy RoboVac 11s: 55 dB
Eufy isn’t just the king when it comes to affordable robot vacuums, they also have some of the quietest ones available in the market. Chief among them is the Eufy RoboVac 11s.
The Eufy RoboVac 11s can go as low as 55 dB noise level. This is virtually comparable to a standard microwave noise.
However, it’s more than just another silent RoboVac. For one, the Eufy RoboVac 11s can last up to 100 minutes depending on the type of surface it’s set to clean. While it’s not an eye-popping number, it’s effectively good for its price range.
An ultra-simple and quiet cleaning robot vacuum
When needed, the Eufy RoboVac 11s can also provide a decent 1300 Pa suction power rating, which is enough to get rid of most microscopic allergens. For comparison, mid-range robot vacuums can have 2000+ Pa but would cost twice as much.
The lack of app and voice control, as well as limited scheduling options are some obvious shortcomings. But if you don’t need Wi-Fi and other advanced features, then the Eufy 11s is a mighty standard option.
Roborock S6 Robot Vacuum and Mop: 50 dB
The Roborock S6 is a hybrid robot vacuum and mop that you will appreciate most if you regularly need to vacuum carpets and hard floors. Not many robot vacuums perform well in those mixed surfaces, but Roborock S6 continue to test well in both.
The Roborock S6 has a noise level of around 50 dB, making it one of the quietest robot vacuum cleaners on this list.
A compact robot vacuum and mop hybrid
You might encounter occasional struggles when collecting fine, powder-like debris even in bare floors. But other than that, it’s a powerful robot vacuum cleaner perfect for medium-sized rooms and studio apartments.
It’s also an effective robot vacuum cleaner that does well on hardwood floors and high-file carpet. Plus, the device water mopping capability provides a decent added value. There is also a full feature smartphone app for iOS and Android that will give you more customization options.
Neato Botvac D7 Robot Vacuum: 52 dB
On paper, the Neato Botvac D7 is not the average mid-range robot vacuum. Neato’s signature D-shape showcases a familiar design, but the new metallic finish is a fresh look that complements the D7’s minor software and hardware improvements.
The Neato Botvac D7 operates at approximately 52 dB noise level, offering a relatively quiet cleaning routine. It also has decent battery life at 120 minutes.
Sleek robot vacuum with Alexa and Google assistant integration
The extra height due to the circular turret is a curious choice, but it’s a necessary design element that houses the D7’s new laser navigation system with 360-degree view. By large, it’s a more efficient navigator than its predecessors.
For accessories, the unit comes with a charging dock and the typical assortment of spare brushes, filters, and a cleaning tool. The small built-in dustbin is a shade underwhelming, but it’s hardly a concern for average use.
Eufy RoboVac 30C Robot Vacuum: 55 dB
Eufy RoboVac 30C is an affordable robot vacuum with a noticeable ergonomic design and excellent combination of basic and desirable features. For one, the device comes with its own remote control with access to features such as scheduling and voice control.
Known for its low noise output, this quiet robot vacuum generates just around 55 dB of noise. Furthermore, the Eufy RoboVac 30C’s compact 2.85″ inch body makes it an agile choice for users who needs a reliable robot vac to clean around low-clearance furniture.
A smart entry level robot vacuum
To get the best cleaning performance out of this robot vacuum, it’s advisable to download the Eufy Home app to access the full suite of features. You can even use the app as substitute for the remote control. Otherwise, it’s an easy way to view the status of your Eufy RoboVac 30C when it’s not in sight.
In addition to this, you may use the app to quickly select cleaning modes and monitor power level. Overall, it’s one of the robot vacuums worth checking out if you’re new to the technology and are eager to make the most value for your first purchase.
iRobot Roomba 960: 58 dB
Roomba is the brand most synonymous with robot vacuums. Not surprisingly, they have quite the presence and lineup specialized for the market. The iRobot Roomba 960 is somewhere in the middle of the pack, which makes for an ideal tech-driven upgrade for users who feel limited by an entry level robot vac.
With a noise level of about 58 dB, iRobot Roomba 960 is considered one of the quiet robot vacuums from Roomba.
A worthy upgrade
The 70-minute battery life on hardwood floors isn’t the most appealing for this price range, but the unit does make up for it via optimized algorithm that performs a more methodical cleaning session.
If you have medium-sized room or apartment, then it’s all the better since the iRobot Roomba 960 should be able to go for a round and a half across your premise before needing a recharge.
iRobot Roomba j7+ Robot Vacuum: 55 dB
The self-emptying robot vacuum iRobot Roomba j7+ is a pretty cool option if you want a well-rounded but silent operator.
During tests, the robot vacuum proved that it can go as low as 55 dB. This isn’t an easy feat for any vacuum with its size and functionalities. It does, however, tend to get loud when it self-empties. Still, this is significant improvement from the Roomba i3 EVO that produced 68 dB.
Self-emptying premium robot vacuum
Owing to its premium price point, you’ll be getting Smart Mapping technology and self-emptying capability straight out of the box.
The latter is nice to have, but this also means you have to account for the charging dock where the robot will unload its debris and reset.
Navigation-wise, the iRobot Roomba j7+ does well going from hard surfaces into tiles and rugs. It even comes with automatic object detection and avoidance.
You can simply schedule cleaning sessions and leave the robot to do its job thanks to its reliable smart mapping tech. If it isn’t a deep cleaning session, average use can go up to 85 minutes per charge.
Ecovacs Deebot N79S: 60 dB
First thing you need to know is that Ecovacs Deebot N79S is competitively priced. But that’s not the only thing is has going for itself. After all, it’s hard to find other robot vacuum cleaners with an app control feature or Alexa support that will be as cheap as the Deebot N79S.
This Ecovacs Deebot N79S robot vacuum produces noise at around 60 dB. It’s a relatively quiet device. Most robot vacuums from this price range isn’t primarily known for their quietness, but the N79S owns up to it as part of its identity.
A solid and silent robot vacuum
The biggest drawback here is that it’s prone to get stuck. It’s not like you have to rescue it all the time, but it sure lags when compared to the more expensive robot vacuum and mop variants.
The short-term savings isn’t that bad since the unit looks and feels compact and sturdy. Meanwhile, the charging base is thoughtfully small and discreet enough that you won’t have to worry about an intrusive set up.
Shark IQ Robot R101AE: 61 dB
Shark IQ Robot R101AE offers an decent balance between performance and low noise. And it’s not because it’s from an expensive line. Case in point, the vacuum doesn’t go about its work via a random cleaning path. Instead, it follows a snake-like cleaning pattern for a more efficient performance on a hard floor.
The Shark IQ Robot R101AE operates at approximately 61 dB, which is hardly the most silent unit on this list. But most robot vacuums that can lay claim to that also don’t become the best overall robot vac just by that standard alone.
Another reliable, self-emptying robot vacuum
Shark IQ Robot R101AE is a middle of the pack type of self-emptying robot vacuum that is modestly priced for most homeowners.
When purchasing the set, you’ll get the self-emptying robot and base along with all the basic accessories. Overall, the shiny look also gives a more premium feel. Although, it’s the desirable noise levels that makes it a worthy inclusion to this list.
Samsung POWERbot R7040: 63 dB
While it looks unique, it never quite had an identity that made it standout against other mid-range robot vacuums. In fact, you can go higher or lower in the price ladder, and still find a suitable 1-for-1 alternative in other robots.
The unit generates 63 dB of noise at best, but when it comes to overall value, the Samsung POWERbot R7040 lags behind most robot vacuums you’ll find in its price range.
A quiet and decent alternative
In terms of performance, the Samsung POWERbot R7040 does its best work in set ups that are open and has a lot of hard floor. It should still do just fine over medium pile carpets, but you can expect the performance to decline if you force your way beyond that.
The best case scenario would be to get the unit on a discount in order to get the most value for your money.
ILIFE A9 Robot Vacuum: 63 dB
The ILIFE A9 prioritizes all the basic features of robot vacuums including a slim and compact design that can easily clear low-rising furniture, a decent navigation system, and “no go zones” set up for better hands-free cleaning.
With a noise level of about 65 dB, the ILIFE A9 is considered relatively quiet compared to other robot vacs.
It looks nicer, too, thanks to the metallic shades and compact dimensions. For added safety, the bumpers are boosted around the robot’s frame to help minimize wear and tear.
An affordable robot vacuum
As an added bonus, you can control the ILIFE A9 with voice commands when paired with Amazon’s Alexa. The unit also comes with a remote control that can be used to manually control the robot vacuum, activate spot cleaning function, set custom cleaning schedules, and more.
Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P: 68 dB
As a brand, Xiaomi has built a reputation for offering great value across its vast catalogue of smart devices and home tech. This affordable vacuum lives up to that trend by combing vacuum and mop in one cost-saving unit.
The Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P operates at approximately 68 dB, leading to a reasonably quiet cleaning session.
Xiaomi’s smart vacuum robot
The Xiaomi Mi Robot Vacuum-Mop P robot vacuum also supports Google assistant that allows you to run basic commands even without needing to take out your phone.
Like the rest of their smart home appliances, this robot vacuum can be easily integrated to your Mi Home app for added convenience.
ILIFE V3S Robot Vacuum: 55 dB
The ILIFE V3S is an entry level robot vacuum that is simply focused on what it can do best: move around and clean. Albeit, blindly.
The ILIFE V3S is the most cost-effective vacuum on this list. But it’s fairly quiet as well with just about 55-60 decibels (dB) noise generated during standard operation.
A simple, entry-level robot vacuum
Unlike the previous robot vacuums we’ve listed, the ILIFE V3S lacks advanced sensor for smart navigation. Therefore, it essentially finds its way around your room by bumping into corners and avoiding much of what it can recognize as obstacles until the inevitable wear and tear shuts it down.
DreameBot L10 Pro Robot Vacuum and Mop: 65 dB
The DreameBot L10 Pro robot vacuum is known for its excellent mapping technology and strong suction power. It’s a mid-range robot vacuum that makes for a great investment if you have hard floors that need frequent washing and sweeping.
When operating at its lowest suction power, the DreameBot L10 Pro robot vacuum registered a noise level of just 65 dB. It’s not the lowest on this list, but it’s still quieter than most robot vacuums.
Mid-range robot vacuum with high suction power
This robot vacuum earned its stripes for its incredible suction power that is previously unheard of in mid-range robot vacuums.
In addition, it has an above average battery life of up to 150 minutes to back all that power up and equipped with LiDAR navigation to rebuild a 3D environment of your home.
Tikom G8000 Robot Vacuum Cleaner: 55 dB
The Tikom G8000 is a budget-friendly vacuum and mop combo that features gyroscopic navigation, electronically-controlled water pump, and self-charging functionality. The 55 dB noise level makes this unit one of the quietest robot vacuums on our list.
Budget-friendly vacuum and mop combo
The Tikom G8000 offers a lot of value for its entry-level price tag. Aside of being a smooth and reliable operator, the unit boasts a suction power of up to 2,700 Pa, which is more than any other robot vacuums within this price range.
Furthermore, it has self-charging capabilities, Alexa and Google assistant support, smart mapping, and dedicated remote control.
Lubluelu SG60 Smart Robotic Vacuum Cleaner: 55 dB
The Lubluelu SG60 is equipped with gyroscopic technology you’d find in small navigation devices and mobile phones. This smart mapping technology allows the vacuum to avoid most obstacles, clear walls and edges, and support no go zones.
The silent mode of the Lubluelu SG60 produces little to no audble disturbance at just 55 dB. Like many of the robot vacuums on this list, you can leave the SG60 on its own while you sleep, work or read.
Budget-friendly option with 27-month warranty
The 27-month warranty stands out because it’s uncommon to see this much extended warranty for robot vacuums. Nevertheless, it’s a welcome benefit and a value-added reason to consider this unit if you’re looking for a quiet but inexpensive robot vacuum.
Aside from all the standard features of an entry-level robot vacuum, the Lubluelu SG60 also supports Alexa and Google assistant. For quick use, you can even choose between silent mode, standard mode, and strong mode. The latter will utilize the vacuum’s highest suction power that maxes out at 2,700 Pa.
Miele Scout RX2 Home Vision Robot Vacuum: 60 dB
The Scout RX2 has an intuitive design fit for a flagship robot vacuum. However, there’s no escaping that it has some anachronistic elements that can be indifferent to some.
Its vintage-looking LCD display and use of error messages seem a little out of place in its futuristic design philosophy. In fact, error messages are simply not practical in any home appliance.
Regardless, it’s a visually appealing product in its entirety. Plus, the inner-workings has the tools to impress. Using the most energy-efficient mode of Scout RX2 will only yield 60 dB at max.
A stylish robot vacuum with excellent mobile control
The Scout RX2 has one of the most outstanding app integrations in any given list. You can schedule cleaning sessions with ease and edit them on the go if needed.
Smart mapping is a clear strength for the Scout RX2. Much of that can be attributed to the advanced sensors and smart 3D navigation. It also helps that the vacuum has a pair of eyes (camera) that can send pictures for a more thorough update.
It’s worth noting that the Scout RX2 has had a history of software problems out of the box. It’s a shame because it has all the makings of a value purchase.
Wyze Robot Vacuum: 58 dB
One of the best robot vacuums for new buyers is Wyze Robot Vacuum. Even as an entry-level robot vacuum, this unit supports room mapping, cleaning schedule and no go zones or virtual wall.
The Wyze Robot Vacuum supports three cleaning modes with the quiet mode clocking a cool 58 dB in flaquiet t surfaces and low-file carpet.
Reliable vacuum cleaner for surface or bare floors
Wyze is a company known for affordable but high quality tech goods. For the most part, that’s exactly what the Wyze Robot Vacuum delivers. The 110-minute battery life isn’t impressive on paper but the efficiency of this vacuum makes it seem enough in a standard cleaning session.
Narwal Freo Mop Clean Robot: 55 dB
An expensive but silent option would be the Narwal Freo Mop Clean Robot. The premium purchase will give you a self-washing robot vacuum and mop that functions at high level on both sides of the spectrum.
As a mop, the unit boast a twin-disc system that is effective at mopping even hard-to-clean juice stains. Meanwhile, as a robot vacuum, Narwal Freo is powered by an improved algorithm that makes it easier to avoid obstacles. There’s also touchscreen controls and Google assistant for ease of use.
For vacuuming jobs, Narwal Freo will only produce 55 dB on its lowest settings. When mopping, these can even further reduced to around 45 dB.
An all-in-one floor cleaning solution for your home
The unit comes with a docking station with 480 ml dust bag, but conspicuously missing is the self-emptying capability. For a premium-priced unit, you won’t be at fault for expecting that much.
For what it’s worth, it’s definitely one of the most balanced vacuum and mop combos. More robot vacuums are leaning toward hybrid models, but they usually don’t give much effort into making the mopping capabilities as desirable as that of the vacuum. Thus, the Narwal Freo Mop Clean Robot is a step in the right direction.
Are Robot Vacuums Noisy?
Many robot vacuums are not noisy at all. In fact, quiet robot vacuums are more common. Unlike traditional vacuum, robot vacuums aren’t saddled with large chassis that can ramp up the noise level during deep cleaning runs. In most cases, you should observe low noise levels with average usage.
The best robot vacuums typically has a silent mode. This means that you can tune performance of your unit to prioritize silent operation whenever necessary.
How Many Decibels (dB) is Considered a Quiet Robot Vacuum?
After scouring the market, 50 dB to 70 dB seems like the sweet spot for quiet robot vacuums. To add context, this noise level would be the same with what you’ll typically get from high-end microwave and refrigerators.
Can a Quiet Robot Vacuum Clean Carpets Effectively?
A quiet robot vacuum can have a full, silent cleaning cycle even when it’s tasked to scrub and cleanse hardwood floors and medium pile carpets. However, also note that increased suction power will definitely result to a louder operation.
What is the Quietest Robot Vacuum on this List?
The Roborock S6 logged the lowest noise level during our tests. It’s not the most well-rounded robot vacuum on the list, but it should do well in small to medium sized rooms and apartments.
For a more dynamic option, you can consider iRobot Roomba j7+ (7550). This unit has a self-emptying docking station, smart mapping and more. Additionally, Roomba j7 registers no more than 55 dB on quiet mode.
Pick Your Quietest Robot Vacuum
Quiet robot vacuums are not hard to find. After all, being a silent operator is like a core feature for these devices. But then again, the best robot vacuums are rarely just about one aspect of the trade. They combine a lot of good things together.
If you’re looking for the best robot vacuum for your home set up, you can start by considering the surface and floor arrangement within your rooms. This way, you will have a better idea of just how silent a robot vacuum can operate in your premise. The general rule is that more suction power will create more sound. Therefore, it also takes a little bit of discipline to ensure that silent mode will suffice in cleaning your home.
Lastly, don’t forget to bookmark this page for an updated list on the quietest robot vacuums in the market. We’ll keep you posted as we get to test more robot vacuums in the future.
