After finishing the Q Revo review, I’ll start a new series comparing it to other Roborock options.
First is the S8 Pro Ultra, the current flagship with the latest technology.
The Q Revo is a downgraded option with self-emptying and pad-washing but with a different base station and mopping system.
Is the more expensive S8 Pro Ultra better, or is the Q Revo’s cheaper price tag makes it worth considering?
An overview of the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and Q5+
Airflow: 17.91 CFM π Sand on Hard Floor: 99.6% π Deep Cleaning: 76.35%
Side brush: One π Brush roll: All-rubber brush
Navigation: LIDAR π Map saving: Yes π Number of maps: 4 π Containment: Yes π Selective Room cleaning: Yes π Recharge & Resume: Yes
Self-Empty: Yes π Bag capacity: 2.7 liters π Dustbin capacity: 350ml
Mopping: Yes π Pad Washing: Yes π Clean water tank capacity: 5 liters π Dirty water tank capacity: 5 liters π Water tank (inside robot): 350ml
Battery: 5200 mAh Li-ion π Run time: 180 minutes π Noise: 62.8 dB
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
Airflow: 11.33 CFM π Sand on Hard Floor: 98.6% π Deep Cleaning: 85.15%
Side brush: One π Brush roll: Twin rubber extractors
Navigation: LIDAR + Front IR Sensor π Map saving: Yes π Number of maps: 4 π Containment: Yes π Selective Room cleaning: Yes π Recharge & Resume: Yes
Self-Empty: Yes π Bag capacity: 2.5liters π Dustbin capacity: 350ml
Mopping: Yes π Pad washing: Yes π Clean water tank capacity: 3 liters π Dirty water tank capacity: 2.5 liters π Water tank (inside robot): 200ml
Battery: 5200 mAh Li-ion π Run time: 180 minutes π Noise: 70.8 dB
* If you click on any of the links above and purchase, we earn a commission at no additional cost.
Jump to: Intro, Similarities, Differences, App Features, Navigation, Obstacle Avoidance, Airflow, Cleaning, Mopping, Run Time, Noise, Maintenance, Parts, Specs, Where to Buy, Which is Better, Verdict
Introduction to the Roborock Q Revo and S8 Pro Ultra
Here’s a comprehensive video review on my YouTube channel.
Since Roborock introduced the S7 MaxV Ultra and the S8 Pro Ultra, it utilized one fixed pad with a vibrating element (two for the S8 Pro).
It’s been a staple for Roborock options since the S7+. But the Q Revo mopping system is different as it uses a twin-disc system.
This change surprised me, but Roborock had to reduce production costs to lower prices, which had several question marks.
First is the performance of its mopping system since other brands I’ve tested (Dreame and Narwal) weren’t as efficient.
Next is the pad washing system, since it didn’t have the bristled component as its more expensive siblings.
Cheapest Option with Pad-Washing and Self-Emptying Features: Roborock Q Revo
Pros
- A cheaper option than the S7 MaxV and S8 Pro Ultra
- Larger water tanks (5-liter capacity)
- Slightly higher bag capacity at 2.7 liters
- Higher airflow (close to 18 CFM)
- Decent pad-washing performance
- Low noise output
- Efficient navigation
- Excellent mopping performance
Cons
- Obstacle avoidance is not as good as the S7 MaxV Ultra or S8 Pro
- Below-average deep cleaning
- Larger vertical base station footprint
The Q Revo represents a zag in Roborock’s product development.
If you haven’t watched, here’s a full video review of the Roborock Q Revo.
Instead of using a tried and tested design in the S7 MaxV and S8 Pro, it switched to a more basic configuration using two spinning discs.
There are several reasons for the switch.
The first reason (I’ve already mentioned this) is the cost savings since manufacturing trays is cheaper than the more complex brush system that relies on a motor for its side-to-side movement.
Another reason is to increase the water tank and bag capacity.
The Q Revo doubles the water volume to five liters per tank, so consumers don’t need to refill or empty as often.
Its cleaning performance remains top-notched thanks to the higher airflow and bristle-less roller.
This robot uses Roborock’s patented Reactive Tech obstacle avoidance system to evade objects.
All these changes point to a do-it-all robot vacuum with a larger capacity, enabling it to clean larger spaces without having to refill or empty as much.
It retains the same efficiency as the S8 Pro since it uses the same algorithm but at a lower price point.
Better on Carpet: Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
Pros
- Twin roller design is better at vacuuming carpet
- Efficient mopping with the twin vibrating elements
- Better obstacle avoidance than the Q Revo
- Easier access to the dustbin
- The app is better at identifying obstacles
- Wider self-emptying port
Cons
- Much more expensive
- More complex pad-washing system
- Higher maintenance costs
Roborock introduced several new features in the S8 Pro Ultra to improve mopping and vacuuming performance.
First is the twin roller system, which I hadn’t seen (in person) except for Roomba.
Unlike the Roomba version, it uses deeper grooves, enabling better agitation on carpets.
The next upgrade is the two vibrating elements on the mopping module, doubling the agitation.
However, the S8 Pro pad isn’t detachable, unlike in the S7 MaxV.
I’m unsure why Roborock made this component non-removable, but I can’t entirely agree with this change since harder to remove the cloth.
One massive benefit of having a second roller is the extra agitation, particularly on carpets, where it got one of the best scores (85.15%) for Roborock.
It retains the obstacle avoidance system of the S7 MaxV Ultra, but instead of a camera, it uses an IR sensor.
Flanking the IR sensor are two lasers, helping it identify and evade objects.
I did extensive experiments with the S8 Pro at various obstacles, and it was excellent, evading most of them, except for stretched wires.
There isn’t much difference between the S7 MaxV and S8 Pro with obstacle avoidance, but the variance is higher than the Q Revo.
Similarities of the Roborock Q Revo and S8 Pro Ultra
Next, we’ll examine the similarities between these do-it-all robot vacuum and mop hybrids, starting with the base station.
1. Do-It-All Base Station
While their designs are different, the functionality is similar in that both have pad-washing and self-emptying features.
The S8 Pro’s base station is wider and shorter since the water containers and bag are in one row.
The Q Revo’s design is different, utilizing a more standard design seen in other brands like Dreame and Ecovacs with the water containers on top and the bag in the middle.
One significant benefit of this configuration is the larger capacity tanks, increasing the capacity to 5 liters.
However, the bag capacity didn’t increase much, only 0.2 liters more than the S8 Pro.
2. LIDAR
Next is the LIDAR (Laser Distance Sensor) based navigation. It’s been a staple for all Roborock intelligent robot vacuums, making them efficient at navigation.
I tested both, and each finished a two-pass run inside a small room in under twenty minutes.
Another plus with LIDAR is it doesn’t bump into furniture hard since it slows down and traverses around them without getting wedged.
3. Obstacle Avoidance
Both have obstacle recognition systems, enabling each to evade different objects.
Based on experiments, the S8 Pro sensor is better since it has two lasers flanking it, while the Q Revo does not have it.
The twin lasers enable the S8 to be more accurate at identifying obstacles, especially wires, pet feces, and footwear.
It was better at avoiding stretched wire, evading a higher percentage than the Q Revo, which seems to run into them more often.
Looking closely at its obstacle avoidance sensor, it doesn’t have any lasers flanking, only a large IR sensor in the middle.
3. Ramp-Style Dock
All Roborock options have ramp-style docks, which is better than a vertical port.
The photo above shows the S8 Pro and Q5+ base stations.
All have ramp-style docks, offering better stability during the docking and self-emptying cycle.
But one difference between the Q Revo and S8 Pro Ultra is the auto-empty port size.
The S8 Pro’s port connects to the primary brush roll, so it’s wider.
In comparison, the Q Revo’s port is relocated to the back of the robot since the pad washing tray occupies the base.
Differences Between The Roborock Q Revo and S8 Pro Ultra
Now, let’s look at the differences, which could be deciding factors between these robot vacuums.
1. Base Station Size
There isn’t much variance between the width of the S8 Pro and Q Revo base station, but the Q Revo has more vertical real estate (22 inches) than the S8 Pro dock (17.75 inches).
Not a significant factor inside open spaces, but it could be if there are overhangs.
2. Pad Washing Mechanism
Another difference, which may be a sticking point for some, is the pad washing system.
The S8 Pro uses the same bristled brush component as the S7 MaxV Ultra (with some minor variances).
Yes, the stiff bristles are effective at removing gunk sticking on the pad, but these will eventually wear out.
You’ll need to purchase brushes during the robot’s lifetime, which incurs additional costs.
The Q Revo uses a more straightforward design: a base plate with studs scattered around where the pads spin against to clean.
I mentioned in the video that there are fewer moving parts, but that wasn’t accurate.
There are no moving parts since it’s one molded plastic piece.
And after doing several mopping tests, including the red wine and juice stain experiments, the pads were (relatively) clean.
3. Pad Design
The next difference is the pad design, with the Q Revo utilizing two spinning discs, while the S8 Pro Ultra uses a single pad.
One similarity is that both have agitation. The Q Revo discs spin at 200 rpm, and the S8 Pro has two vibrating elements on the pad.
4. Brush Roll
Roborock introduced the twin roller system in the S8 Pro Ultra. These rollers have deep grooves, helping with agitation on carpets where it got an above-average percentage.
I (also) noticed it doesn’t have the rubber squeegee-like flap behind the second roller, which could be a factor why it wasn’t as good on hard floors.
The Q Revo uses one bristle-less roller, similar to the Q7 Max+, with straight fins.
Despite only having one brush roll, the Q Revo was excellent on hard floors and above average on carpet, thanks to the higher airflow.
It has a rubber flap behind the brush roll, helping funnel debris towards the inlet, helping it pick up debris.
5. Water Tank
The Q Revo water tanks double (or nearly) doubles the capacity of the S8 Pro Ultra at 5 liters, while the S8 Pro has a 3-liter clean water tank and a 2.5-liter dirty container.
Another difference is the opening of these tanks. The Q Revo’s water tanks open fully, and only half of the S8 Pro container opens.
One plus with the S8 Pro container is access to the handle during refills; the Q Revo does not.
6. Bag Placement
Lastly is the bag placement. The Q Revo bag is relocated to the middle, underneath the water tanks.
The S8 Pro bag is on the base station’s rightmost part (when facing the robot).
App Features
These robots are compatible with the Roborock app, and I’ll share the most helpful features.
1. Live Map
Roborock pioneered the live map feature, and it’s been a staple of the app in every update.
It shows the robot’s location in real-time and areas cleaned through the grid lines.
The 3D map was introduced during the Q-Series and S8 Pro release, providing consumers with a three-dimensional map perspective, viewable from various angles.
2. Mapping Run
Another critical addition to the Roborock app is the mapping run, introduced during the Q Series and S7 MaxV release.
This feature utilizes LIDAR’s 360-degree scanning ability to identify the perimeter area around the room for map creation.
It cuts down this process significantly and only takes less than three minutes to create the maps at home.
3. Map Saving
Once the map is created, consumers can save up to four of these in the app.
Four is more than enough for a heavy robot vacuum and mop hybrid since most folks will leave this in one area because of its bulk.
But, the multi-level saving feature is an added wrinkle of customization, giving consumers more options.
4. Containment
Containment is available for the Q Revo and S8 Pro Ultra: invisible wall, no-go, and no-mop zones.
An invisible wall is a virtual barrier (or wall) that blocks the robot from going past it.
No-go and no-mop zones have the same function: they block the robot from entering a marked area (box or rectangle) on the map.
The difference is that no-mop zones block the robot from mopping by lifting the pads.
5. Thresholds
A new feature added to the Roborock app is the thresholds feature, allowing consumers to mark these areas on the map.
It is similar to the invisible wall since it blocks the robot from going past it.
But why add something redundant?
I’m thinking (maybe) Roborock wants to give consumers more options to organize each map level.
6. Obstacle Detection
Since these robots have front obstacle avoidance sensors, these objects are marked on the app.
Based on testing, the Roborock S8 Pro is more accurate at identifying these obstacles, thanks to the twin laser sensors flanking the IR sensor.
The Q Revo only shows cones and didn’t detect obvious stuff like pet feces or wires.
And since these robots don’t have a front-facing camera, it only shows a graphic of the obstacle, not a photo.
The screenshots above show a side-by-side view of the S7 MaxV and S8 Pro recognition results: the S7 MaxV shows a photo, while the S8 Pro displays a graphic.
7. Selective Room Cleaning
The Q Revo and S8 Pro apps have selective room cleaning, meaning consumers can ask the robot to clean specific rooms on the map.
This feature is helpful inside large homes, and it’s possible to select multiple rooms.
One feature unlocked with selective room cleaning is the three-pass run, where consumers can ask the robot to vacuum or mop the area three times.
8. Zoned Cleaning
Another option for consumers is to choose an area within the room to clean.
Roborock calls this feature zoned cleaning, and it’s excellent for mopping or vacuuming smaller spaces.
The three-pass cleaning run is also available in this tab.
Unfortunately, consumers can’t save these zones, so they must repeatedly redraw the boxes (or rectangles).
9. Scheduling
Tying all these features together is the scheduling tab, where folks can automate the vacuuming process.
Consumers can specify what days of the week the robot vacuums, areas it will clean, and cleaning modes.
Also, scheduling multiple daily runs is possible if you’re obsessed with clean floors.
Navigation Comparison
The Roborock Q Revo and S8 Pro Ultra will navigate similarly, starting around the edges before going to the middle portions in a back-and-forth pattern.
Both have the crisscross pattern during two or three-pass runs, adding a thoroughness dimension to the vacuuming and mopping cycles.
These robots efficiently traverse tight quarters, completing a two-pass run in under 18 minutes.
However, the cheaper Q Revo did better, picking up more debris after the first pass, proving its higher airflow and seal behind the brush.
Obstacle Avoidance
Both have obstacle avoidance sensors, specifically a front IR sensor for evading objects.
The S8 Pro system is more advanced since it has two lasers flanking the middle sensor.
As I’ve said earlier, it’s more accurate at identifying, helping evade high-risk obstacles like stretched wires better.
However, the S8 Pro wasn’t foolproof with evading stretched wires but had a higher batting average.
Nonetheless, it was better than the Q Revo that seemed to tangle on every stretched wire I scattered, not avoiding anything once.
Another trouble spot for the Q Revo is avoiding a weighing scale. It repeatedly climbed over it several times.
The S8 Pro didn’t have this issue and avoided it easily.
Airflow Comparison
The Q Revo wins this category over the S8 Pro Ultra thanks to its higher airflow in the max setting.
Power setting | Roborock S8 Pro Ultra | Roborock Q Revo |
---|---|---|
Quiet | 6.49 CFM | 9.68 CFM |
Balanced | 7.27 CFM | 11.67 CFM |
Turbo | 9.33 CFM | 14.52 CFM |
Max | 11.33 CFM | 17.91 CFM |
Max+ | 11.33 CFM | N/A |
It maxed at 17.91 CFM, enabling better results on hard floors (more below) than the S8 Pro, which had a max of 11 CFM.
This represents a (whopping) 45% variance, giving the Q Revo more oomph for debris pick up on hard floors.
Unfortunately, this advantage only translates on hard surfaces, as the S8 Pro’s second brush roll gives it better agitation on carpets.
Cleaning Performance
Model | Roborock S8 Pro Ultra | Roborock Q Revo |
---|---|---|
Overall | 94.95% | 93.46% |
Hard Floor | 96.9% | 99.75% |
Sand on hard floor | 98.6% | 99.6% |
Carpet (Surface Pickup) | 99.15% | 98.17% |
Carpet (Deep Cleaning) | 85.15% | 76.35% |
The results above reveal a few things. First, the Q Revo is (hands down) the better option on hard floors since it picked up close to three percentage points better on this surface, which is significant.
Second, the S8 Pro’s second roller lets it pick up (significantly) more sand during the deep cleaning experiments (over 85%) – one of the best Roborock options.
Nonetheless, the difference with carpet surface cleaning is not as significant.
Which Option Is Better on Hard Floors?
One barometer I use on this surface is sand. The Q Revo picked up a robust 99.6% on this surface, making visibly cleaner passes during the experiments.
The S8 Pro was decent, getting a 98.6%, but there were more remnants after the three-pass run.
It’s (clearly) a result of the low airflow since high airflow options will average in the high 99s.
Edge Cleaning Comparison
Again, the winner of this category is the Q Revo since it left less debris afterward, and I scattered plenty in this area.
The S8 Pro was also excellent, but it left visible chunks at the edges.
Neither of these robots picked up debris on the quarter-inch crevice, so don’t expect to clean dirt wedged in these areas.
Hair Wrap Comparison
Model | Roborock S8 Pro Ultra | Roborock Q Revo |
---|---|---|
5-inch strands | 48.5% | 24.5% |
7-inch strands | 24% | N/A |
Unfortunately, neither robot vacuum did well in the hair wrap experiments.
The Roborock Q Revo only picked up 24.5% during the five-inch experiment, so I didn’t bother doing the seven-inch test.
Most strands are wrapped on the brush roll.
The S8 Pro was better, doubling the score, picking up 48% in the five-inch test and 24% with seven-inch hair.
So technically, it’s the better option for cleaning hair, but the bristle-less roller isn’t a maintenance-free system.
But it’s easier to clean since hair doesn’t wrap tightly, and there’s no need to use scissors to dislodge tangles.
Which Option Is Better On Carpets?
Thanks to the second roller, the S8 Pro is better at cleaning carpets, especially embedded sand on mid-pile, where it picked up 85.15%, nearly ten percentage points higher than the Q Revo’s score of 76.35%.
On surface debris, the variance isn’t as significant (sub 1% difference), but still a higher average.
Mopping Comparison
Despite the difference with the mopping module, the mopping results are incredibly close.
I tested the S8 Pro and Q Revo on tough-to-clean juice stains, which most robot mops struggle with, and these robots removed them after the first pass.
The results for the Q Revo surprised me because of its proficiency, getting the smudges out after the first pass.
Likewise, the S8 Pro Ultra was as efficient, getting everything out on the first pass.
These robot vacuums are some of the most proficient I’ve tested on juice stains, which can spell trouble for robot mops without an agitating element.
However, one issue with the S8 Pro Ultra and Q Revo is neither can’t pick up liquid, so it’ll leave residue on the surface.
As with pad cleaning performance, both pad-washing mechanisms efficiently remove residue from the pad.
After several mopping cycles, here’s a close-up look at the S8 Pro pad.
And the Q Revo.
It helps that the cloth used is gray, but I didn’t see any residue sticking on the pads: a positive sign.
One advantage of the Q Revo is the simpler pad-washing component, consisting of a tray.
It’s made from high-quality plastic, and I don’t think the studs will wear out soon.
The S8 Pro relies on a bristled component prone to wear, so running costs will be higher for this model.
Run Time Comparison
There’s not much variance (if any) with run time for the S8 Pro Ultra and Q Revo.
Both use Roborock’s high-capacity 5200 mAh lithium-ion battery and will run for up to 180 minutes (in the lowest setting).
Pair this with its ever-improving algorithm and efficient navigation, and 180 minutes goes a long way.
Noise Comparison
Power setting | Roborock S8 Pro Ultra | Roborock Q Revo |
---|---|---|
Quiet | 58.1 dB | 59.7 dB |
Balanced | 62.1 dB | 60.5 dB |
Turbo | 64.8 dB | 61.5 dB |
Max | 70.1 dB | 62.8 dB |
The Q Revo won this category since it didn’t exceed the 63-decibel mark in the robot vacuum noise experiments, only topping at 62.8 decibels.
Despite having less airflow, the S8 Pro exceeded the 70-decibel mark in the max setting (70.1).
Maintenance
Complex robot vacuums like the S8 Pro and Q Revo needs maintenance with all the moving parts involved.
I’ll enumerate a list of components consumers must check and recommended intervals.
- Brush roll: Detach and check weekly to remove accumulated dust and hair, especially on the axles.
- Side brush: Check weekly and clean the tips and base to remove gunk or hair.
- Dustbin: Inspect monthly and wipe any dust residue. Remove the filter, and tap it on a solid surface to dislodge any debris sticking to the folds.
- Drop sensors: Wipe using a clean microfiber towel or cotton bud to remove any residue buildup, preventing an error code from firing and disabling the robot.
- Bag: Dispose of the bag once it’s full. Visually check bi-weekly of its status.
- Pad-washing tray [Q Revo]: Wipe the plastic tray using a clean paper towel to remove gunk sticking on the surface.
- Pad-washing brush [S8 Pro Ultra]: Inspect it monthly to check for bristle wear and replace it if needed.
- Dirty water tank: Clean it bi-monthly to prevent foul odor from building up inside.
- Auto-empty port: Ensure that nothing is blocking the self-emptying port that may affect the auto-empty feature.
Product Specifications
Model | Roborock Q Revo | Roborock S8 Pro Ultra |
---|---|---|
Width | 13.77" | 13.89" |
Height | 3.79" | 3.79" |
Filter | Washable E11 Rated Air Filter | Washable E11 Rated Air Filter |
Navigation | Smart Navigation | Smart Navigation |
Run time | 180 mins. | 180 mins. |
Recharge and Resume | Yes | Yes |
Map Saving | Yes | Yes |
Number of Maps | 4 | 4 |
Dustbin capacity | 350 ml | 350 ml |
Clean Water Tank | 5 liters | 3 liters |
Dirty Water Tank | 5 liters | 2.5 liters |
Water tank (inside robot) | 80 ml | 200 ml |
Auto empty capacity | 2.7 liters | 2.5 liters |
Airflow | 17.91 CFM | 11.33 CFM |
Warranty | 1-year limited | 1-year limited |
Price |
Where Can I Purchase These Robot Vacuums?
The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and Q Revo are available in online stores like Amazon. Check the links below for the latest pricing information.
Disclaimer: I will earn a commission if you purchase from the link above, but at n cost to you, so itβs a win-win for us!
Which Option Is Better, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra or Q Revo?
With all its technology, you’d think the S8 Pro Ultra is the no-brainer option between these models, but I digress.
The Roborock Q Revo is the clear winner between these options, factoring heavily in its vacuuming and mopping performance and the lower price, which seals the deal.
To summarize, the S8 Pro Ultra is better in obstacle avoidance and carpet cleaning, but the Q Revo wins the other categories.
4 Reasons to Choose the Roborock Q Revo
- Cheaper alternative: The Q Revo is several hundred dollars cheaper than the S8 Pro Ultra.
- Better on hard floors: Its higher airflow lets it pick up more on this surface.
- Simpler pad washing: This feature entails lower running costs since there’s nothing to replace with the simpler pad-washing system.
- Larger water tank capacity: The 5 liter volume (nearly) doubles the S8 Pro water tanks.
4 Reasons to Choose the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
- Better obstacle avoidance: It’s equipped with laser sensors flanking the front IR sensor, enabling it to identify objects more accurately.
- More efficient on carpet: The second roller helps pick up more debris on carpets (especially embedded ones).
- Bigger self-emptying port: The S8 Pro auto-empty port connects to the primary brush roll, so it’s wider and more efficient at emptying hair.
- Easier access to dustbin: Consumers will have easier access to the S8 Pro dustbin since its facing backward when docked.
The Verdict: The Q Revo Offers Better Value
Roborock has a winner with the Q Revo. It offers better value for your dollar with its efficient vacuuming and mopping performance minus the ultra-premium cost.
I was most surprised with its mopping performance since most of the twin disc mops I tested weren’t as proficient at removing juice stains, and the Q Revo trumps them with its high rpm discs.
The S8 Pro Ultra offers more refinement with its latest tech. Its twin roller system adds an extra layer of agitation, helping it clean carpets better, and it had one of the best scores for deep cleaning (for Roborock models).
It’s also better at evading obstacles since the front obstacle-avoidance sensors is more accurate at identifying objects.
However, the variance with surface debris cleaning on carpets is not significant.
The price difference is what sealed the deal for me between these robots.