Roborock Q8 Max +: Futura tested the robot vacuum cleaner that does the max and much more

If there is a brand of robot vacuum cleaner with a very good performance/price ratio, it is undoubtedly Roborock. The Chinese brand has even managed to democratize these devices which were previously the preserve of American manufacturers with rather expensive models. It is always with this spirit that Roborock is redoing its ranges with its new series of robot vacuum cleaners. The one we tested is the all-new Q8 Max in “plus” (+) version. Here again, for a low price, you get the equipment and performance that you usually find in the higher range. While it is sold for 699 euros, the Q8 Max + benefits from a huge discount which brings it to 479 euros! With this price, it definitely carries its extension well: it does the maximum and even goes much further.

Unlike its counterpart the Q8 Max (499 euros with a reduction to 389 euros at the moment) which has the same functions, this “plus” version comes with a special docking station. When you unpack the device, you must first assemble the base of this station to the bin which allows you to vacuum up the contents of the robot after cleaning. For this, Roborock provides an Allen key with a cruciform tip inserted under the base.

Quick initialization

Firstly, and to benefit from all the settings, it is necessary to download the Roborock application from the mobile app store (iOS, Android). Then you need to create an account via an email address. A code is sent to validate this account. Now comes the time to pair with the home Wi-Fi network and the mobile. To do this, simply hold the two function buttons on the vacuum cleaner continuously then, from the app, select the network and enter its code. At the end of this operation, you can start the robot to carry out its first location mapping operation. Here again, it is via the application that the settings are made. This is where you can determine whether it is just one level surface or multiple levels. The robot will then evolve by groping and wandering everywhere to create this map that can be displayed in 3D. This map also allows you to know the surface to be cleaned and the time it may take. During this maneuver, the robot will also place blocks in places where it has identified difficulties. This is particularly the case at the top of the stairs, for example.

An original double brush system to increase efficiency

After this operation, let’s move on to cleaning. Here too, it is from the application that we can make some adjustments. There are several power options, including a deep cleaning one. And precisely to remove all the dirt most embedded in a carpet, for example, the robot is introducing a new brush technology called DuoRoller. As its name suggests, under the device, instead of having a single brush to scrub the floors and clean them before vacuuming, there are two brushes with rubber blades almost nested. These two brushes rotate in an antagonistic manner. This process is supposed to improve the hair collection rate by 20% according to the manufacturer. In practice, it is true that it is rather effective. It should also be added that the suction power has gone up a notch compared to older models. It now peaks at 5,500 Pa. To save time, i.e. reduce cleaning time by 30%, a rapid suction option is available. But be careful, “fast” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s poorly done!

This robot has a compass in its eye

When it comes to navigation, the Q8 Max knows how to find the most relevant path to optimize the cleaning of your floors. To do this, it uses the previously established mapping and uses its LiDAR, that is to say a real radar to update obstacles and find its way. Better yet, it manages to remove the dirt that accumulates between the floor panels by using the right trajectories. Practical, especially if it is a parquet floor!

A clever obstacle avoidance system

One of the drawbacks of robot vacuum cleaners is that they generally collide with furniture, people or animals during their task. The rotating brushes then become entangled in the cables or shoe laces. And since it is not always easy to properly prepare the working area for a robot vacuum cleaner, in the case of the Q8 Max +, it is the one that adapts to you! To avoid getting too close to an obstacle, the Q8 Max + is equipped with a system called Reactive Tech. The process allows it to bypass it directly so you don’t need to pick up anything lying on the ground.

Its application was designed to facilitate its settings. They are numerous, we find the mapping of the rooms, it is also possible to create exclusion zones with the touch of a finger. This is also where we choose to apply the water flow level, or the power of the vacuum cleaner. As a bonus, the application also has a special lock to prevent children from using this house fairy as a toy by directly pressing its buttons.

An integrated mop for washing the floor

The robot doesn’t stop at vacuuming, it also knows how to mop the floor at the same time. With its mechanical nozzle system, it is also possible to adjust its water flow over 30 levels, which is unprecedented. The water comes from a tank with a capacity of 350 milliliters which is extracted from the robot to fill it. Whether vacuuming or washing, the robot is quite durable. Its 5,200 mAh battery gives it autonomy allowing it to treat up to 300 m² of surface area.

More peace of mind with the dust collection station

As you have understood, this Q8 Max + version has a special docking station called RockDock Plus. When the robot reaches it, a large suction lasting several seconds is triggered to empty the contents of the dust bin into a bag which is housed in the station tower. With this process, you only need to change the 2.5 liter dust bag every seven weeks, or at least when it is full. Enough to completely forget what vacuuming means… On the other hand, you will have to manually fill the mop’s water tank.

Article written in partnership with Roborock