How to Pick the Best Robot Vacuum with Obstacle Avoidance and Object Detection

Robot vacuums are a lifesaver for anyone too busy to tidy up. But here is the catch: is it really a time-saver if you have to yank stuck objects out of the suction or free the bot from under your couch every time it runs? Without smart obstacle avoidance, these hiccups can sour the deal. That’s why the latest models are built with smart object detection and edge cleaning, which helps spot and sort objects in real time, such as toys scattered on the floor or chair legs, delivering the hassle-free clean you signed up for!

What is a Robot Vacuum with Obstacle Avoidance

With obstacle avoidance technology, robot vacuums first incorporate object detection to identify what’s in the way, then proceed to dodge hazards like charging cables or pet bowls without causing damage.

This feature is one of the major systems in a robot vacuum since the indoor environment is dynamic – kids playing with toys, pet messes, opening doors, etc. To prevent any accident, a smart bot should be able to react to these situations while covering as much area as possible.

In the early days, robot vacuums mainly adopted bump sensors, which just bounce off objects; however, this method is not ideal as it sometimes knocks off objects. Hence, new technologies are developed, like DEEBOT incorporating AI in its system: AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology continously scans surroundings, while identifies obstacles and captures their contours as references for edge-following – revolutionizing the traditional concept of "avoidance" and maximizes cleaning coverage.

Why Do Smart Vacuum Cleaners Need Object Avoidance?

Object avoidance helps robotic floor cleaners react to obstacles properly, minimizing the risk of getting tangled or colliding with delicate items. First, it scans and detects objects in the space; then it decides on the path: maneuvering around a sock but continuing to vacuum over a high-pile carpet. Therefore, it is a key component of a good robot vacuum.

Efficient Navigation

First, object avoidance helps auto vacuums navigate more efficiently. The old-school “bump-and-go” method not only causes damage to furniture but also wastes a lot of time “fixing” the path—for instance, keep bumping into your lovely cat if it refuses to move. Obstacle detection helps the device identify what not to run into in the first place.

Avoid Leaving Marks

Smooth navigation also means fewer unsightly skids and marks left on your walls and furniture corners. When paired with an advanced mapping system, object avoidance helps precisely detect items in its path, including walls and furniture. Thus, the machine can simply follow the straight edge of the wall and not run into it.

Improve Mapping

Object avoidance tech also contributes to mapping accuracy of a vacuum. When you first get a smart vacuum, it scans and maps your home as preparation. But what if you move furniture later on? Or what happens if you accidentally break a vase? With object recognition, the smart device constantly detects the surrounding and then reacts accordingly.

Prevent Damage

The obstacle avoidance feature further stops the device from slurping up things that will jam its internal parts, like sharp nails. This is an effective way to extend the lifespan of an auto vacuum!

Best DEEBOT Robot Vacuums with Object Avoidance

DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI

As a flagship model, DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI is well-equipped with revolutionary AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology, which uses RGBD and panoramic dToF LiDAR to spot and contour objects. Imagine there’s a pet bowl; previous technology might dodge it from afar and leave dirt around the bowl untouched, but with this new technology, it cleans along the edges of the bowl with no missed spots. With a combo of 18,000 Pa suction¹ and OZMO ROLLER Instant Self-Washing Mopping Technology, which scrubs stains at 200 RPM while self-refreshing, this powerful model is dedicated to handling the cleaning needs of a busy household.

DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI

Another model that features AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Technology is DEEBOT T50 PRO OMNI. Built with RGB AI and 3D structured light, the machine accurately detects objects like pet messes even in dim light conditions – that’s right, in case your furry friend suddenly makes an accident, the machine can react in milliseconds and reroute in real time. Besides, at just 81mm in height, its slim figure helps it slip under sofas and cabinets with ease, while TruEdge 2.0 extends its brush and mop to reach corners, making it a great option for optimized cleaning coverage.

DEEBOT N20 PRO PLUS

DEEBOT N20 PRO PLUS provides obstacle avoidance using infra-red laser, which supports TrueMapping Intelligent Path Planning and agile navigation through obstacles such as pens, clothes and food crumbs that could tangle or harm it. On top of that, you can remotely control the vacuum via the ECOVACS HOME App – say, if your kid drops a water glass, you can lock down the area by setting no-go zones to block the device from entering.

How Do Robot Vacuums Avoid Obstacles?

Robot vacuums rely on a number of sensors, cameras and algorithms to avoid obstacles in their path. Depending on the manufacturer, you can find different specs and technologies developed for this purpose.

Traditional Obstacle Avoidance Technologies

In the early days, robot vacuums employed bump sensors that bounced off obstacles. Later, ultrasonic sensors were used to collect data from the surroundings, including detecting obstacles, changes in height and the edges of carpets.

So, how does it ‘know’ whether an object is an obstacle or debris? Traditionally, robot vacuums were pre-trained using images of common household objects they were likely to encounter, forcing a race in the industry over the number of recognizable objects – say, 70, 100 or 120 types.

Cameras and Sensors for Obstacle Avoidance

Obstacle avoidance technology runs on a number of cameras and sensors, like the RGBD cameras in DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI spot objects even in dark corners. When comparing the new fully-embedded panoramic dToF LiDAR sensors to old LDS sensors, the former measure distances up to 12m with millimeter accuracy, far surpassing the 3-4m range of the latter; plus, dToF signals are 1000 times stronger than LDS, powering it works equally well in strongly lit conditions like sun-facing windows. Keeping the sensors clean also improve its performance. 

AIVI 3D 3.0 Omni-Approach Obstacle Avoidance Technology

The latest obstacle avoidance technology developed by ECOVACS redefines the strategy. In the past, the device recognized an object based on training, yet this barely scratched the surface since there are countless objects in the world, let alone brands and styles; thanks to VLM, AIVI 3D 3.0 directly identifies obstacles from images, so there is no limit on the number of objects it can recognize.

Furthermore, this technology changes how it treats obstacles. Instead of keeping a safe distance, VLM intelligently tracks their contours as references and uses them to guide the device to clean along the edge of the obstacle. Rather than ‘avoiding’, this new tech optimizes coverage.

How To Choose The Right Obstacle Avoidance Robot Vacuum

When buying a robot vacuum, it’s important to consider the sensors, cameras, and AI-powered detection features that impact the obstacle avoidance performance. You should also take into account the size and layout of your space, flooring types, and the presence of kids or pets. These factors will help you make an informed decision quickly.

Sensors, Camera, and AI Detection

Smart sensors and cameras in a smart vaccum are essential for accurately identifying objects in real time. Look for models that pair these features with AI-powered detection, which can analyze data, plan an optimized cleaning path, and navigate closely around obstacles without causing damage.

Mixed Flooring Types

Many American homes have a mix of flooring surfaces, for example, hardwood floors in living areas and carpets in bedrooms. Did you know that some sensors struggle with reflective surfaces like polished marble or dark flooring? Opt for a model with LiDAR or 3D structured light technology, which performs better under these conditions.

Presence of Kids and/or Pets

Robot vacuums don’t always run when the house is empty. In homes with kids or pets, it’s important that the vacuum can quickly react to sudden movements, such as kids chasing each other. The latest models constantly detect the environment and support rapid response to obstacles like unexpected drops.

Raised Thresholds and Floor Edges

Whether you live in a large house or a small apartment, raised edges and high-pile carpets are common. A robot vacuum should be able to recognize these as passable surfaces, not obstacles, and climb over them with ease. Most modern vacuums can handle thresholds, such as DEEBOT X8 PRO OMNI, which can cross barriers up to 20mm².

Stairs or Drop Zones

In multi-storey homes, one major concern is the risk of the robot falling down the stairs. To prevent accidents, choose a vacuum equipped with cliff sensors, advanced mapping, and object detection, which works together to make sure that stairs are no longer a hazard. You can also set no-go zones to keep the bot away from dangerous edges.

Fragile Furniture and Tight Spaces

Your furniture reflects your style, but some materials are too delicate for accidental bumps. While advanced object detection helps avoid collisions, it's a good idea to use virtual barriers to keep the device away from fragile pieces. The same applies to tight spaces: virtual barriers can block the vacuum from misjudging low-height furniture and attempting to squeeze underneath. 

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