Buying a robot vacuum in 2013 would entail spending at least $500 for something that has decent navigation and cleaning features.
Two brands – iRobot and Neato, dominate this niche, but upstarts like I.L.I.F.E. provide consumers with a cheaper alternative.
Dyson also has entered the fray, but it hasn’t been as successful, at least in Amazon.
All the brands I mentioned above are excellent in their own right.
Each is equipped with state-of-the-art features, namely the S.L.A.M. algorithm, the brains behind these robots’ navigation.
This is the same feature used in Google’s driving car.
Manufacturers are pushing the envelope regarding innovation but at an insane cost.
For instance, the Dyson 360 Eye costs $1,000, and the Roomba 980 is around $900.
It will be more expensive if you buy retail!
Let me introduce a new brand that caught my eye as I was looking on Amazon for cheaper options for consumers who cannot afford to spend nerly$1,000 on a robot vacuum.
The I.L.I.F.E. robot vacuum is one of the more affordable vacuums currently available. Nine variants cost between $100 and $200 when bought directly from GearBest.com.
Some variants are available on Amazon but are a bit more expensive.
We compare all seven variants (and counting) to give you a birds-eye view of how each performs, its features, pros and cons, and so on.
Spec comparison
Model | A4S | A6 | A8 | X5 | V5 | V5S Pro | V7 | V7S Pro | V8S Pro |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Run time | 120 - 150 mins. | 160 mins. | 160 mins. | 90 mins. | 120 mins. | 2.76 | 120 - 150 mins. | 140 mins. | 100 mins. |
Power | 700 - 1,000Pa | 950 - 1000Pa | 950 - 1000Pa | 550Pa - 850Pa | 600Pa | 550Pa - 850Pa | 400Pa | 400Pa | N/A |
Diameter (inches) | 12.2 | 12.01 | 12.01 | 11.81 | 11.79 | 11.81 | 13.39 | 13.39 | 12.99 |
Height (inches) | 2.99 | 3.15 | 3.15 | 3.03 | 2.75 | 2.76 | 3.15 | 3.15 | 3.18 |
Number of side brushes | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Cleaning radius | 180 - 200 sq.m. | 180 - 200 sq.m. | 180 - 200 sq.m. | 180 sq.m. | 120 - 150 sq.m. | 90 - 150 sq.m. | 80 - 150 sq.m. | 150 - 200 sq.m. | 150 - 200 sq.m. |
Noise | ≤ 65dB | ≤ 65dB | ≤ 65dB | ≤ 65dB | ≤ 55db | ≤ 54db | N/A | 55 - 60db | 55 - 60db |
Cleaning modes | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Mini-room (5) Schedule | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Mini-room (5) Schedule | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Mini-room (5) Schedule | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Schedule (5) Mopping | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Schedule | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Schedule (5) Mopping | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Schedule (5) Mopping | (1) Auto clean (2) Spot clean (3) Edge clean (4) Schedule (5) Mopping | (1) Auto mode (2) Point mode (3) Border mode (4) Path mode (5) Mopping mode (6) Self-charge mode |
HEPA filter | |||||||||
Motorized brush | |||||||||
Remote | |||||||||
Charging base | |||||||||
Smartphone app | |||||||||
Virtual wall | |||||||||
Dust Box Capacity | 0.45L | 0.3L | 0.3L | 0.3L | 0.3L | 0.3L | 0.5L | 0.5L | 0.75L |
Wet mopping | |||||||||
Water Tank Capacity | 0.3L | 0.3L | 0.45L | 0.3L | |||||
Dry mopping | |||||||||
Battery | 2500mAh | 2500mAh | 2500mAh | 2500mAh | 2500mAh | 2500mAh | 2500mAh | 2500mAh | 2600mAh |
Charge time | N/A | less than 300 mins. | less than 300 mins. | less than 5 hrs. | N/A | 280 mins. | N/A | 300 mins. | 200-350 mins. |
Warranty | |||||||||
Price |
But first, let’s look at the essential features that all of these robot vacuums have in common.
Navigation
I can say that all of these robots move around the same way, but I can’t since each one has its quirk. I’ll not bore you with a lengthy explanation; I’ve recorded videos of each variant navigating around the same room.
- X5 navigation
- X5 Mopping
- V5 Pro Mopping
- A4
- V7 Demo and Navigation (without the mop)
- V7S navigation (vacuum mode)
- V7S mopping demo
The pre-programmed modes installed will be different depending on what variant you select (please refer to the table above for the exact modes included on each variant). Below are the details of how each mode works.
If you look at their website, the terminologies they use are different. To avoid further confusion, I’ve asked a representative if some of the terms they used are, in fact, the same.
Auto
This is the default cleaning mode of all I.L.I.F.E. robots.
When you press the clean button, the robot moves a few feet from the charging station and scans the room.
Based on the eye test, the navigation system used here is very similar to the iRobot, which means it moves in a random direction.
According to GearBest, their robots use a set of wall sensors and five I.R. receivers to detect and avoid obstacles. It also features cliff sensors to prevent it from falling off stairs.
Edge
In this mode, the robot will focus on cleaning along the room’s edges. This is where the two side brushes come in handy.
The robot returns to its default random cleaning mode even in this mode.
Spot
In this mode, the robot will clean a tiny area in a spiral motion.
This feature is excellent for cleaning a tiny and messy area.
Manual
Only variants with a remote included have this feature.
The robot vacuum will become a Remote-Controlled cleaner that goes where you want it to go.
It wasn’t as polished as I had hoped when I tested this because the robot turns at 15-degree angles and still goes through its default cleaning mode.
So you’ll be wrestling with the robot’s computer for control.
I’m not a big fan of this feature because robot cleaners shouldn’t require much human intervention, but it does have its uses.
Scheduling
This is where you set the time for the robot to clean automatically.
Note that you can only set one fixed time for the whole week, and it will clean simultaneously every day.
Out of the seven variants, only the V1 has no scheduling feature.
Cleaning Performance
Over the past few months, I’ve recorded several videos testing these robots and seeing how they perform cleaning bare floor surfaces. I’m not going to go into detail about each of these videos as I’ve already done so in the video description and individual product reviews themselves.
- V1 Unboxing and Cleaning Test
- X5 vs. V5 Pro Cleaning Test
- ILIFE V7S vs MI Robot Vacuum
- A4 vs Xiaomi
- V5 vs V5 Pro
- V7 vs V5 Pro
- V7 vs MI robot vacuum
- A4 vs V7
- Xiaomi vs V5 Pro
- V5 Pro vs. Jisiwei I3
- V7S Pro vs V5 Pro
- V7S Pro Rug Cleaning Test
If there’s one common theme in all these videos, the I.L.I.F.E. robot performed very well, even against the more expensive Xiaomi Robot Vacuum. It didn’t pick up every piece of debris, but it picked up most of it.
These tests involve big messes, something a robot vacuum will not encounter daily. However, it is nice to see that even with this mess, these robots can handle it and not buckle to the challenge.
Side brush-es
Out of the seven robots here, the A4, X5, and V5 Pro have two side brushes—the V7 and V7S have only one side brush, while the rest have two.
Mopping
Except for the V1 and A4, the rest of the robots in the I.L.I.F.E. product line have mops.
The V5 and V7 do not come with a water tank, so these two variants can only dry mopping (or damp mopping if you soak and wring the microfiber pad).
7, the V7S Pro has the largest and most advanced water tank out of the seven.
Here are links to the videos of the mopping in action
These videos show that the I.L.I.F.E. does not have the advanced scrubbing action found in the iRobot Braava mops. Instead, it uses the same random navigation pattern, but only with the vacuum motor turned off.
It works well for maintenance clean-ups on sealed surfaces such as tile.
However, it will not scrub off dried-up stains, which is a downside.
Height
This feature will be appreciated if you have a lot of furniture at home with low clearance, like beds.
All I.L.I.F.E. robots stand less than 3.15 inches tall – around .45 inches shorter than the Roomba and .75 inches shorter than the Neato BotVac.
The V5 Pro is the shortest, measuring just 2.76″ tall, and both V7 variants are the tallest at 3.15″.
Battery
All variants use a 2,600 mAh lithium-ion battery that will last between 90 and 180 minutes, depending on the variant. Using a lithium-ion battery means less fade as the charge level goes down.
The run time will be enough to clean up to 500 square centimeters.
Charging time will be around 300 minutes, regardless of variant.
Virtual Wall
This virtual wall is similar to the Roomba, which sends an infrared signal that “blocks” the robot from entering a particular area. This device acts like a wall that blocks the robot’s path.
It is a nice added feature for a robot vacuum at this price range.
Only the X5 has the virtual wall feature included.
Now, let’s look at each variant closely and their features individually.
I.L.I.F.E. V1
Regarding features, the V1 is the cheapest of the seven robots on this list, but note that it also has the fewest features.
The only reason I could give you to buy this robot is the price.
Unfortunately, the I.L.I.F.E. V1 has been discontinued and is no longer available.
But don’t worry—entry-level isn’t bad because this robot retains all the navigation and cleaning performance of its more expensive siblings, such as the X5, V5, and V5 Pro.
Like all I.L.I.F.E. robots, this variant does an excellent job of avoiding obstacles. Even if it bumps into one, it slows down almost to a stop and will not damage your furniture.
Low profile design
Measuring just 2.95 inches tall, this robot will fit under most furniture.
Since this variant does not have a motorized brush, don’t expect too much when cleaning the carpet. I’ll have to test it to determine how well it does, so stand by.
Unlike the other variants in this list, which have a 2,600 mAh lithium battery, this robot has a slightly smaller lithium battery, at just 2,200 mAh.
Shorter run time
This means that it will run less—according to the GearBest site, it will run between 60 and 90 minutes and will take between 200 and 250 minutes to charge.
Speaking of charging, the biggest downside to this robot is the lack of a charging dock—a device that the robot returns to when it detects that its batteries are below 20%.
What does this mean?
This robot will run until it stops, and you’ll have to plug in the charger on the side. It can still clean multiple rooms but won’t be as efficient.
Another feature lacking is the remote, which isn’t a big deal for me, but this means that you won’t be able to schedule the robot to clean on its own at a specified time—a critical feature that makes robot vacuums very useful, in my book.
Bottom line
If you don’t mind not having the charging dock and scheduling feature and want a simple robotic vacuum that performs well on bare floors, then you’ll get a good deal with the V1. It costs a little more than $100 and is one of the best-value robots in my book.
A4
The A4 offers the most powerful suction of all available variants, making it the most efficient option for bare floors and carpets.
It features a bristle-motorized brush that will work best on low—and maybe medium-pile carpets and two side brushes for edge cleaning.
Twin side brushes
These side brushes combine to funnel loose dirt into the main inlet.
The only other robot vacuums I know with more suction are the Roomba 980 and Neato vacuums, but those are at least a few hundred dollars more expensive!
Update (April 4, 2017): I.L.I.F.E. has unveiled two new robotic vacuums, the A4S and A6. These two variants have upgraded more efficient motors and new beater bars that improve cleaning performance.
Guess how much the A4 costs. For Amazon, it would be around $210. A better deal can be found at Gearbest, which costs less than $170, depending on the plug type.
A cheaper option to the Roomba 650
If you’re familiar with the Roomba 650, this one looks almost like it, except for the extra side brush.
Other elements are similar, including the placement of the dirt bin.
But I’m not complaining because Roomba has long been a benchmark because of its success, and copying its design wouldn’t be such a bad idea.
This variant has no mop attachment, so it will only vacuum.
You will get two side brushes and an extra H.E.P.A. filter out of the box.
Check out how the motorized brush of the A4 compares to the V7S Pro.
The V7S Pro brush is much bigger and performs better, particularly on carpets.
A4S
A4S is similar in design to the A4 but with a few upgrades.
These include the brushless motor, larger batteries, and a more significant bearing for the motorized brush. The improvements have translated into a much longer run time.
I recorded a video sharing the differences between the A4S and A4…
Surprisingly, the older A4 did a better job regarding the amount of dirt picked up, but it took 10 minutes longer to achieve a similar result.
Another minor improvement would be the addition of the mini-room cleaning cycle. This cycle will run shorter than a traditional cycle until the robot’s battery runs low.
Bottom line
The A4S is the most powerful of the 9 I.L.I.F.E. products here. It is best suited for bare floor surfaces like tile, hardwood, linoleum, and low—to medium-pile carpet.
A6
The I.L.I.F.E. A6 is the latest, and with a few upgrades, the I.L.I.F.E. robot is in the lineup right now. It has the Gen 2 brushless motor that’s far more efficient than the A4 and A4S.
According to I.L.I.F.E, this translates to a longer run time of around 160 minutes.
New beater bar
It has numerous other improvements, including a different motorized brush with no bristles.
This is a radical change from the previous variants. Not having bristles makes this easier to clean. I.L.I.F.E. was pretty generous in including an extra brush out of the box.
Like the A4S, this also comes with a mini-room cleaning mode that allows it to clean smaller rooms without draining the battery.
This feature will lengthen battery life to a certain extent because it runs shorter than the default cleaning mode, which runs until the battery is low.
Other improvements include a “virtual wall” that blocks off areas you don’t want this robot to enter without moving a piece of furniture.
In terms of size, this robot is a bit narrower but slightly taller…
Both have the exact bin placement, which is at the back. However, the release lever is at a different location in the A6, at the top. So be careful when picking up this robot from the back that you don’t touch the lever, or the robot will take a tumble.
Bin capacity is slightly smaller for the A6 – – just 0.3 liters (versus 0.45 liters).
Bottom line
The A6 is the latest, and the I.L.I.F.E. robot is now available with a few upgrades. Does the price justify its performance? The new Gen-2 “CyclonePower” brushless motor means better efficiency and longer run time. It also comes with an extra rubber brush and a virtual wall. So that’s a lot of value for the money you’ll be spending, and dare I say, I’d recommend this over the iRobot Roomba 650.
A8
Does the I.L.I.F.E. A8 change the direction of I.L.I.F.E. robot vacuums?
Before it came out, all of I.L.I.F.E.’s robots had random cleaning patterns.
Brand new navigation
The I.L.I.F.E. A8 is different in terms of navigation. Instead of relying on a bunch of I.R. sensors to avoid furniture, it has a camera to help it navigate.
Gone is the thorough cleaning pattern that many people have come to love because it does clean well for a robot.
The A8 uses a predictable back-and-forth pattern that is a sharp departure from its older sibling, the A6.
Everything in the I.L.I.F.E. A6 and A8 are the same except for the navigation.
Please watch this video to learn more about the A8. Make sure to watch it until the end to see the cleaning test.
Navigation is not as good as the A6.
I’m not impressed with the upgraded navigation. Yes, it was efficient, but it lacked edge cleaning and thoroughness. It left a lot of dirt behind and did not clean the area around the chair well.
I had high hopes when I got the A8, but the new navigation disappointed me. If I.L.I.F.E. can find a way to integrate the SLAM system in the A8 and improve thoroughness, it would improve performance.
Bottom line
The navigation upgrade was a disappointment. It wasn’t thorough, and edge cleaning was absent. If you want to purchase this, please stick with the I.L.I.F.E. A6.
X5
For homes like mine that only have bare floors, then the I.L.I.F.E. X5 would be an intelligent choice.
This robot is capable of sucking up dirt and wet mopping the floor.
Note that these two functions are separate, and you cannot use these two features simultaneously.
Mop/vacuum combo
But you can use it to dry mop and vacuum – a valuable combo for cleaning statically charged dust.
Suction power is less depending on the mode you use.
When you use the “super mute” mode, suction drops to 500Pa; suction power goes up to 850Pa in the normal mode.
No beater bar
The X5 does not have the motorized brush the A4 has, so do not expect this to clean the carpet. This robotic is designed for bare floors.
It comes with two distinct tools for dry sweeping and wet mopping – the dust bin and water container.
The water tank’s design principle is simple in terms of functionality. Water trickles down through two posts on each side toward the microfiber mop below.
It has no mechanism to regulate flow, so you can’t leave the water tank for an extended period.
Bottom line:
The X5 is a great budget alternative as a robotic sweeper and mop. This is the best bang-for-the-buck autonomous sweeper and mop. I cannot find another brand that offers the range of features that the X5 offers, but remember that this variant will not clean the carpet because it does not have any motorized brush.
V5
Homes with a lot of hardwood flooring will benefit from the dual functionality of the V5.
This variant is similar to the X5 and V5 Pro but minus the wet mopping option.
With a few upgrades (and the coupon code), you’ll get a lot for your dollar. Check the coupon codes in the “Where to buy ” section.
Considering the cleaning performance and navigation, it is one of the best bargains in the robot vacuum industry,
Of all its Chinese-branded robots, I.L.I.F.E. produces one of the best products. I say this not because I got all these for free but because I did well in my cleaning tests.
The V5 is a step up from the bare-bones I.L.I.F.E. V1. These robots have the same layout underneath – two side brushes flanking the vacuum inlet in the middle.
Even if the V5 is less than $10 more expensive, you’ll get many upgrades.
The first upgrade would be the ability to schedule the robot to clean whenever you want, once a day, seven days a week.
The second upgrade would be the addition of a mop, which you can use to dry mop in addition to vacuuming.
You will also get two side brushes, extra H.E.P.A. filters, and a remote with two double-A batteries!
Bottom line
If you don’t need the wet mopping functionality of the X5 or the V5 Pro, this is a good cheaper option. Cleaning performance would be roughly the same for these three robots, so this shouldn’t be an issue.
V5S Pro
The V5 Pro is a step up from the V5 and X5.
It has around 20% more power than the V5 and around the same power as the X5.
All three have the same layout underneath, meaning they have two side brushes, a suction-only vacuum, and a mop attachment.
Simpler layout
The X5 has a four-button interface (Clean, Plan, Home, and Spot), while the V5 Pro has a more straightforward one-button L.E.D. touchscreen layout.
Another difference is that the V5 has the same remote as the V5 Pro but minus the “max” button and does not have a water tank.
Update (May 17, 2017): I.L.I.F.E. has discontinued the production of the V5 Pro and replaced it with a few upgrades. This new version has four lithium batteries, a longer run time, an upgraded water tank, and a brushless motor. The upgrades will result in better mopping and much longer run time.
Run time
On a fully charged battery, the X5 will run for about 90 minutes, while the V5 Pro will run for around 140 minutes (over 2 hours!).
The price difference between the two will be minimal. It varies depending on which warehouse you buy it from. Make sure to check this section for the latest prices.
Bottom line:
With all the upgrades, I’d pick the V5S Pro over the X5 because it has more polish, a longer run time, a better water tank, and a better scheduling feature with a few upgrades.
V7 and V7S
These two variants are hybrid versions of the A4 and V5 Pro, meaning they combine the A4’s carpet cleaning feature with the V5 Pro’s wet mopping functionality.
Editor’s note: GearBest has discontinued selling the ILIFE V7S on their website.
This variant was replaced by the V7S Pro, which had several key improvements over the V7S, namely, a new water tank regulating the flow of water from the tank to the pad and the ability to schedule it to mop independently.
To see how these two differ, watch this video…
These models come equipped with a combination brush tool that looks like this.
The brush roll is similar to that of the Neato BotVac Connected, which means it has a bristle plus squeegee design that works very well for cleaning pet hair.
Unfortunately, it does not match the Neato in terms of suction. Out of all the variants, the V7 and V7S have the weakest suction at only 400Ps.
But it makes up for it with a wet mopping feature. Both have the most significant dust bin of the 7 – capable of holding 0.5 liters of dry dirt.
The similarities end there.
What’s the difference between the two?
The I.L.I.F.E. V7 has a more miniature microfiber mop than the V7S, and it does not have a water tank, which means it is only capable of dry dusting.
You could spray a cleaner on the mop but don’t expect it to mop a wet mop in a large area.
The V7S is perhaps the most versatile robot featured here because it can clean rugs, bare floors, and carpets in addition to its wet mopping feature.
Only the V7 has a smartphone app.
One last feature found in the V7 but not in the V7S is the Bluetooth remote control system through a smartphone app (yes, it is available for Android and iOS phones).
To download the app, scan the code on the box using a Q.R. code scanner…
It will open the website where you can download the app.
Here’s a close look at the screenshots of the app…
This means you can control the robot using an app on your phone.
The downside is that it is only compatible with Bluetooth and not WiFi, so you must be within a certain radius.
Currently, the app is only available in Chinese.
But even in its current version, you don’t have to learn Chinese to use it.
Press the big blue button on the status bar when the app fires up to detect the robot.
Make sure the switch underneath the robot is at the on position and on the charging base.
After the app detects the robot, click on it, and it will reveal an interface that looks like a remote. The icons are pretty self-explanatory.
New and Improved: the V7S Pro
I.L.I.F.E. just released an upgraded version of the V7S called the V7S Pro.
So, what are the updates with the “Pro”? Is it worth it with a few upgrades?
The water tank is the most significant upgrade from the first-generation variant.
A GearBest rep told me that the new tank has a regulator that prevents water from dripping when the robot is off.
As I looked closely at the water tank, I noticed that it wasn’t a pump per se because I
It does not have any motor or any electronics in it.
The device looks more like a valve connected to a device inside the robot to prevent air from passing through in mop mode. It’s also the same device that shuts off airflow.
Watch this video to see what I mean…
It is a pretty simple system but an improvement over the previous tank.
The downside is that it retains the same navigation pattern, meaning the robot will drag a mop on the floor.
It does not have the short back-and-forth mopping motion of Braava, so agitation will be less effective.
Regarding cleaning performance, expect the same results because it uses the same motor, brush, and bin.
Bottom line
The V7 and V7S add a mopping feature to their vacuum systems, equipped with a motorized brush. The V7 is only capable of dry mopping because it does not have a water tank, while the V7S, with a few upgrades, can clean bare floors and carpet and mopping (wet and dry).
V8S Pro
The V8S Pro is I.L.I.F.E.’s latest and perhaps their best robot vacuum. It combines the efficient navigation of the A8 and the thoroughness of the A6 in a more extensive package.
As a bonus, this robot is capable of mopping thanks to the mopping attachment.
So, you have a robot with two functions: a robotic vacuum and a mop.
Not a refresh but a new robot
This is not simply a refresh like the V7S Plus is to the V7S Pro but a new product.
It has a more significant bin and water tank capacity because the dust bin and water tank loads come from the back, not the top, as in the V7 and V7S Pro.
Better navigation
Another improvement would be navigation. Instead of using a random cleaning pattern, the V8S Pro has a predictable back-and-forth pattern combining efficiency and thoroughness.
Watch this video to see the different cleaning modes of the V8S Pro…
Unlike the first-generation Xiaomi and Roborock S5, this vacuum does not have the SLAM algorithm, so it won’t be as bright.
It will not know if it has completed cleaning a section or returned to the home base after a predetermined number of cleaning cycles.
This robot will clean in a predictable pattern until the battery runs low or you ask it to return to the charging station.
Cleaning performance is a strong point, and it’s pretty close to that of high-end robots like the S50.
Bottom line
The V8S Pro is one of the best I.L.I.F.E. robots I’ve tested. It combines efficient back-and-forth navigation with the thoroughness of higher-end robots like Xiaomi. However, it does not have the SLAM algorithm so that it won’t be as smart.
Conclusion
I.L.I.F.E. allows consumers to enjoy the benefits of owning a robotic vacuum without spending more than $250.
All these robots perform roughly similarly. Each will vary regarding the surface it can clean, accessories, run time, and motor.
V1 is the cheapest option.
The V1 is the cheapest and most basic of the nine available robots. It does not have a remote or a charging base, so you must manually plug it in after every cleaning cycle.
But this robot costs less than $80, so it’s a bargain. It’s cheaper than some stick vacuums I’ve covered in this blog.
Options for carpet
The A4 is great for bare floors and carpets, thanks to the combination of power and a motorized brush. I.L.I.F.E. has since released two improved versions of the A4 – the A4S and A6.
Both come with the new Gen 2 brushless motor, which is more efficient and will last longer. Brushless motors are more efficient than brushed counterparts, so they’ll run longer. Another improvement is the mini-room cleaning mode, which allows this to clean a smaller area without using the battery.
The A6 is the newest I.L.I.F.E. product and could be the best. Its brand-new brush roll does not have bristles. Instead, it has rubber flaps that resemble a tractor wheel.
This is designed for better agitation and easier maintenance since there are no more bristles where hair can wrap around. Unfortunately, this is also the most expensive variant at nearly $230.
A better option than the V1
The V5 is similar to the V1 but comes with a remote charging station that costs around $112 or around $30 more than the V1.
A better option would be the V5S Pro, just in case you need the mopping function. It has an upgraded water tank, motor, and batter that’ll run much longer. But it’ll cost roughly $50 more than the V5 and double the price of the V1.
The X5 costs almost $20 less than the V5S Pro and has the same functionality but a scheduling quirk.
Lastly, the V7 and V7S Pro have the most enormous dirt bins (0.5 liters) but the weakest motors. However, performance does not suffer because they have a well-designed motorized brush. The latter has a great water tank for a home with tile or even hardwood.
All their products come with a one-year warranty and free shipping to the United States.
Comments on this entry are closed.
Hey,
how do they work on multi rooms as they do everything kinda random – do they get to any room with open doors in a flat (especially the a4?
Hi Julian,
When you run the ILIFE robot vacuum, it basically runs until it detects it is low on battery power then searches for the charging dock. I’ve tested it the doors in our home open and it does go from room to room but in a completely random pattern. For best results, I’d clean one room at a time then move to the next room, I’ve run it in one room plus the hallway, it worked decently.
The navigation system isn’t really high tech but I’m quite impressed that it does not bump into things really hard so it’s pretty furniture safe.
If you run it a room with the doors closed chances are it will find it’s home base. If it’s a multi-room cleaning, the odds of it going back to the base get lower. There was one time, when tested it – it couldn’t find it’s homebase and ran out of juice in the hallway. No big deal. I just bring it to the charging dock.
Hi Garrick,
Thanks for the roundup. I’ve been looking into buying an iLife Vacuum Robot but have a hard time choosing which is best for us. This helps. Still a lot of doubts though. Better higher suction power or mopping… I find all prices rather close to each other not to be a big factor. Definitely compared to the bigger, none-Chinese brands.
Do you have any experience if the wet mopping is more than a gimmick? We have black times in the kitchen area that get/look dirty as soon as a single drops falls on the floor an gets smeared around by someone stepping in it. Although we are mainly looking for vacuum cleaning, the mopping look interesting also, … if it works. (As for the vacuum cleaning, I don’t expect a full replacement for the traditional mopping, but for something that can extend the periods in between them.)
I’m also focused on the rolling brush somehow, even though we only have bare floors. I’m not sure if it helps or just gets stuck on the many cat hairs we have on the floor.
Lastly, were you able to see whether replacements parts are compatible on the different models? I see you mention getting a V7 combo brush on the A4, but are the side brushes also the same. At gearbest they don’t have replacement parts for the A4 yet.
Sorry for the many questions. You are the first one that compares all the models 😉
Best Regards,
Tim
Hi Tim,
I’ve tried the mop and to be honest, it isn’t my favorite feature of the robot. You wouldn’t want to use it on oily or mucky floors, it’s more like of a finishing tool that you can use on already clean floors – as a maintenance tool. Think of it as a Swiffer but a robot does it for you. One think you can do with the mop is spray some cleaning agent on it, just make sure that you’ve vacuumed the floor first before dispatching the mop.
On bare floor I’m pretty satisfied with the performance of the X5 (it does not have any beater bar) and it’s shown me that it can pick up hair, dust bunnies and lightweight dirt. I’d run it everyday and it keeps the floors clean. If your home as bare floors I’d go with the X5 over the A4 because of the maintenance needed for the beater bar.
Yes, all the models use the same type of side brush. They are interchangeable so I don’t see any issues with that.
Re: A4’s spare parts, which ones can’t you find?
Thanks for the answers. I could not find a box with spare parts for the A4, only for the others. Since my post, I did find it though. It’s not listed in the Robot Vacuum section only in the Household Cleaning Tools> Brushes, unlike the other ones.
Donde puedo encontrar repuesto para el ILIFE robótico vacuum modelo:A4s
Hello,
Thanks you for this great review that compare all ilife models !
Can you make a video that show the mop in action (for exemple put some small dried stains on floor and see how it clean that :))
P.S: I already show what you said in comment about the mop, but a video will be very useful..
I hesitate between the v7s and the x5, i think the x5 is the best for my home (tiles only).
thanks you very much
Hi Eric,
Thank you for the feedback. Yes I sure can make a video of the mop in action. Please stand by for that.
Thanks you very much Garrick, i’m waiting 🙂
Hi Garrick, is there any update about the video ?
HI Eric,
Sorry for the delay. Here’s a recent video as I try the X5 cleaning Worcestershire Sauce (sorta dry) using the wet mopping functionality
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSfefR58XJI
Hey
Thanks you for this great review!
I just ordered an A4 and I have some questions about the replacements of Roller Brushes in the A4 (“If you need more agitation or if you have pets at home, you can swap out the bristled type of this to the combo brush of the V7S”)
1. The 7s and the 7 has the same roller brushes? (From what I found only the 7 roller is been sold separately. it cost 7$)
2. Do you really think it will upgrade the A4? (I have a 3 room house with a dog + trimed carpert and a baby that is thowring food on the floor).
Thanks!!
Hi Roey, Thanks for the feedback. I stand corrected, I just got a sample of the V7S that has the double V brushes. I took it off and tried it on the A4 and it does not fit. If the brushes wear out on your A4 make sure to purchase the same brushes.
Thanks!
Hi Garrick
do you know if both V7 and V7s have same dust bin with same filters?
i am after primary filter (plastic bent when i was drying it close to a heater :s)
so no whole cleaner can’t function
i can only find filter for V7, and support at Gearbest does not exist [random replies for anything i write to them]
Cheers
Hi Serge, yes they have the same filters. I’ll record a video soon comparing the two robots.
Hi Garrick,
Thanks for your great work !!
I wish my robot to be able to clean a carpet and I don’t interest with the wet mopping feature as I heard that it doesn’t really work well.
Thus, it seems that A4 robot is the best suitable for me relative to the V7 robot, as the A4 has much strong vacuum power and equipped with 2 side brushes.
The X5 and V5PRO robots are less suitable, mainly because they have low vacuum power and small dust cabin capacity.
What would you recommend for me to order, the A4 or V7 ?
Thanks,
Yaron
Hi Yaron, the A4 more than doubles the V7 in terms of power when you turn on the max feature that increases suction in expense of the noise. While I like the beater bar of the V7 better, performance wise it is hard to beat the A4 on carpet because of power and agitation.
Actually the X5 and V5S has more powerful motors than the V7 but it does not have any beater bar so it’s pretty much useless on carpet.
Hi Garrick
i have received the filter and fitted perfectly, but now i face another problem: V7s refuses to vacuum clean! Wet mopping works fine,but once i change to dust bin and press clean, it beeps back and does nothing.
Condition: cleaner on the charged, light is constant green
press “Clean” button from the remote and it beeps 2 short beeps, then 1second delay and another beep
light deems quickly, changes to yellow and then back to constant green.
any idea?
thanks in advance
Hi Serge, I’ve forwarded your concern to GearBest someone should get in touch with you. I’ll also do some research and see what the problem is…
What is your advise between the A4 en V5S, on tile floor without carpets.
Is the mob function a usefull thing on the 5Vs / (pro)? (not for spills i know).
And is the underneath brush on the A4 making it a much better machine. (And again no carpets in the room).
JK, On bare floor the V5S would be enough. I like to combine the vacuum and dry mopping as it covers more area picking up dust.
Hi Garrick,
First thanks for comparing all this models , GREAT job , much appreciated.
It helped us to made discussion.
Finally we bought the A4
Arrived this week / nice post & packing to Belgium Europe 🙂
For now we have tested our “pet” (we call it our robo-dog) to clean in automatic mode.
Wondering what’s the average time of the Chuwi A4 to vacuum-clean a regular room ?
It looks as he spent a lot of time, not sure … maybe he has a “learn” function or something like that for first time cleaning ???
Hope you have the answer?
Thanks in advance,
Phil from Belgium
Hi Phil,
Great to hear from you! Unfortunately the A4 does not have that feature :(. It mainly uses IR (or infrared sensors) to avoid obstacles and not bump into objects hard. This robot isn’t equipped with the SLAM algorithm, adaptive navigation system or any cameras which means it will simply run until the battery runs low (that usually takes 2+ hours) and it tries to find its home base. It’s simple but I really like how thorough it is in our small home.
Thanks Garrick for the additional info.
Indeed more tech stuff to come … for the next generation.
Meanwhile , “robo” does his job :-))
Greetz,
Phil.
Hi there
The virtual wall is only included with one of the models currently. Can you buy one separately (if so, where?) and will it work with the V7s model?
Thankyou
Hi Garrick!
Thanks for this great review! After researching, I chose to buy the Ilife A4 because it fits better with topology of my house.
I would like to use a coupon for Gearbest but those two have reached its usage number limit (ChuwiA4 and IlifeA4MT).
Do you have another coupon?
Thanks in advance,
Cheers from Portugal,
Pedro
Thanks Pedro. I’m asking if there are more available.
Thank you for helping us!
Pedro, you can use the same coupon code “ChuwiA4”, they’ve increased the usage count.
Thank you! I’ve already ordered 🙂
This blog is exactly what I’ve been looking for. Thank you for all of your help- and your useful videos. I am going between the A4 and X5. I have all wood and tile floors.. and 1 thick shag area rug. So not really caring about carpet as I’m not sure any would be able to work on that rug, anyways. I do want the corners of the rooms to be swept well… and the mopping is intriguing. I think it would be a nice feature. BUT- I have wood floors and wouldn’t want too much water on the wood. So the mop isn’t a deal breaker for me. We don’t have any pets but we do have a young child. So more just deal with crumbs, dust, and human hair. Ha. What would you choose out of those two if you were in my position?
If you only have bare floor, I’d go with the X5. Though the A4 has more power and a brush roll, it actually requires more maintenance because you have to remove strands of hair that get wrapped up. It isn’t hard but it can be tedious. The X5 does not have this maintenance step and even if it has a smaller bin, I find it easier to empty and less messy because of how the top pops open.
If the area rug is a big concern and you need the robot to clean it for you then I suggest you go for the A4 if you don’t mind cleaning the motorized brush.
Hi, the information provided is great. I have a question, I have on the first floor hardwood only and on the second floor carpet only. I am looking at the V7S as it can handle both. About the wet mop functionality, could I use Bona hardwood floor cleaner instead of water or that would not work?
Depends on how thick the floor cleaner is. One thing I like to do is attach the mop damp with water and/or floor cleaner and just fill the tank with just enough water or cleaner to keep it moist.
hello my robotic vacuum v5 is not charging at all !!
Can anyone advice regarding this issue
Thank you guys all In advance
Have you tried to contact GearBest about this?
Good morning,
First of all congratulations for reviews and videos.
I have seen the comparison grids and the cleaning videos of ILIFE products, but unfortunately do not understand English perfectly and I have difficulty understanding all, I’m a bit confused also because of too many products.
I need some clarification and advice:
1) Is better cleaning with rolling brush (V7, V7S, A4) or without (V5, PRO V5, X5)?
2) For a floor without carpet, which ILIFE ensures a better cleaning, removes dirt more a function of time? Could you tell me the first 3 in order of preference?
3) For a floor without carpet, it is best to have the HEPA filter (A4, PRO V5, X5) or are also fine products without HEPA filter (V7, V7S)?
4) The wet mopping by a good result? You advice wet mopping? Advice not to give up this function?
5) generally, for a floor without carpet, taking into account all the functions and all the features of ILIFE products, you tell me the best 3 in order of preference?
6) Perhaps I realized that the most complete and best product is V7S, advises against choosing V7S, or are also fine the other products?
7) If I had to choose between XIAOMI and ILIFE, regardless of cost, what do you advise? Perhaps XIAOMI is more efficient and rapid, while ILIFE has more features; XIAOMI advice and give up more functions; ILIFE advice and give up efficiency?
Requests will seem trivial but in reality are key to my choice.
I thank you in advance
Best regards
Hi Matteo,
1. If you don’t have any carpet I’d go with variants that have no motorized brush like the V1, X5, V5 and V5 Pro. But if you want something quiet go with the V7S.
2. I don’t quiet get the first part of the question but to answer the second part, I’d go with the V7S, V7, V5 Pro, X5 in that order.
3. Go with a HEPA filter if you’re concerned about allergens coming out of the robot while it is in its cleaning cycle.
4. Wet mopping go with the V7S – larger mop = more area covered.
5. Again, V7S, V7, V5 Pro, X5.
6. I like the V7S because of the brush roll design – even if it does not have as much power as the A4 the brush roll compensates for it.
7. I really like the Xiaomi – very efficient, it has a smart phone app and has the ability to clean multiple rooms without getting lost. The only reason I’ll pick the ILIFE over the Xiaomi is cost. Make no mistake, ILIFE is a very good product but Xiaomi is a few steps ahead in terms of technology.
Thanks for the reply.
Ultimately, the most important aspects for me are these to follow.
Cleaning efficiency; cleaning quality; improved navigation; short times; back to the charging station; (Mainly for cleaning the floor without carpet and floor dry)
Could you tell me, on the basis of these features, what are the best ILIFE for you in order of preference?
I thank you in advance for availability
Best regards
I’d go with V7S, V7, A4, X5, V5 PRO.
hey
quick question
we have two cats and wooden floor (and some carpets)
which ilife would u recommened? we do not need mopping
thx
tim
Go with the V7 or the V5 Pro. 🙂
Hi Garrick,
Thanks a lot for this post, I am trying to decide between all the models but they all seem equally good! What would you recommend for a laminated floor, no carpets and no pets?
I especially doubt whether the wet mopping option is useful or not. If it works fine it’d be great, but if it malfunctions and drops too much water it could damage the wooden floor
For your flooring I’d go with either the V7 or the V5 Pro. The V5 Pro is noisier than the V7 because it has a more powerful motor but the motorized brush of the V7 is excellent so that makes up for the power discrepancy.
Please be aware that the 45 day and 1 year warranty require you to ship the item back to China . USPS quoted me $110 to ship it back from the USA for repairs. The vacuum was only 116 new. It was a great vaccum until day 44.
Well, i live in Poland and if i wanted to send my vacuum to China for repair i would pay around 22$
I have the V7 one. It’s not the greatest vacuum but quality for price is good. Bought it for 142$ with taxes and such (EU)
Hi Garrick,
I got the V7 in the end. It’s working great, except with the only carpet I have in my apartment. It’s quite thin, and normal fabric, however the robot keeps getting stuck when trying to get on it. With and without the mop, it cannot ‘climb’ on it. Does it happen to you?
For the moment I have to roll up the borders of the carpet before starting the robot, it’s a bit annoying.
Second problem is the Android App, it crashes when it finds the robot. I will try to send them a support message about that.
Do you have a photo of the carpet you are using? Does it have any tassels? I tested the V7S on a relatively thin rug and it didn’t have any problems going over.
I was not notified of your reply, sorry. This is the carpet, it doesn’t have tassels: http://imgur.com/a/y8Bx4
Hi Garrick ,
Did you check ainol A – S 11 ? Our home is nearly 140 square meter , using carpets , wooden floor and ceramic.
Do you prefer Ainol or ilife v7spro ? Ainol has 1200 pa of vacuum, ilife’s only 600 and ainol’s dust container’s 3 times bigger.
Thanks
Hi Sinan I’ve reviewed the Ainol A-S11. Between this and the V7S Pro, I’d go with the latter because it’s much refined, more efficient and overall a better performer.
Hi
I have doubts regarding V5, A4, and V7
I have one carpet but I have a big vacuum cleaner for it
so I don’t need Motorized brush
does V5 or V7 will know not to clean the carpet?
regarding V7 my doubts is not having HEPA filter
I don’t like vacuum smell
what you are recommend?
also I like V5 cause it smaller than V7
Thanks
Keren
The V7 also has a HEPA filter. On bare floor I’d go with the V5.
I’m glad that I’ve found your website because I was looking for a complete comparison between all ILIFE models. On the other hand I’m still not wiser as it looks like all models offer almost the same performance.
The efficiency of a Xiaomi also is really impressive but the result doesn’t differ much.
Perhaps one should only look at the price or battery runtime.
I am torn between the X5 and the V5S Pro….. the X5 has the virtual wall feature but significantly less run time than the V5S Pro. However, some of your reviews imply that the X5 is more efficient so the shorter run time shouldn’t matter… what would you recommend between the two for a small apartment with wood floors?
Hey
Do you know about a new ILIFE smart vacuum cleaner coming up soon?
Great article, thanks for all the work!
I own some carpets, should I order the A4S or the A6?
Cheers
Hi,
With a bare floor lots of furniture a cat and two childs☺, what you recommend?
The A6 with power on vacuum or V7S pro with less power but the largest dirt bin’s?
Thanks in advance
Nuno
Portugal
Hi
Where can I get a replacement battery for the IROBOT
14.8 V 2600 MA
INPUT 19 V 06 Athanks
Hi Garrick!
Could you get any valid coupon for ILIFE A4S from any EU Warehouse? Now it is in stock only at G-W-5.
Thanks in advance,
Cheers,
Pedro
hi there and thank you for the amazing comparison.
i recently saw that there is another model named ilife x620. but the info over the internet is not much at all.
do we know if it is up to pae with the other ilife robots? i am thinking of getting one. thank you
of course i am open to suggestions. i need a slim robot (no more than 7.2 cms height) that can do well on both carpet and floor). cheers
I asked them. It isn’t an official ILIFE product.
Hi Garrick,
Just curious about the A6 and its ability to detect a sunken living room. It drops off about 6 inches from all the other rooms.
From what I have read so far I think it would recognize this and not crash, but my wife is concerned and does not want to chance
it.
Hey great work!!!
I am undecided among these vacuums
Ilife V5s
ilifev7 plus
ilife a4s
or xiaowa , what u recommend for a house 100m and 2 cats?
Grettings from portugal
Garrick, I have mostly hardwood floor and tile. I’m not too interested in mopping capability or smart applications but I would like a model that goes under low furniture and does a good job in rooms with a fair amount of furniture and open space. I don’t have inside pets but my family and guests are not the type that take off their shoes. I don’t have a lot of time to research. What is your recommendation for me?