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Roborock S8+ Vs Q8 Max+ — Which One Is The Best?

Today’s focus is a head-to-head comparison between the Roborock S8+ and the Roborock Q8 Max+ robot vacuum and mop combos. These two models may share similar names, appearances, price points, and features, but they still have slight differences that could sway your decision on which of these is the best robot vacuum for you. And after putting them through extensive evaluations over the past few weeks, we found that one of these robotic vacuums emerges as the clear winner.

Verdict

The Roborock S8+ clearly outshines the Q8 Max+, making it the top choice for those seeking a highly efficient and versatile robot vacuum. With its advanced VibraRise mopping system, superior obstacle avoidance, and exceptional carpet deep cleaning capabilities, the S8+ delivers a more comprehensive and convenient cleaning experience.

However, the Q8 Max+ also has its strengths, particularly in battery life and power efficiency, where it outperforms the S8+. If battery longevity is a priority, the Q8 Max+ is worth considering.

First Choice
Close Second
$759.99
$819.99$659.99
First Choice
Close Second
12/04/2024 06:51 pm GMT

Overall, though, the S8+ offers a more comprehensive and efficient cleaning experience, making it the better automated robot vacuum and mop combo —especially if you can find it at a similar price to the Q8 Max+.

Roborock S8+ vs Q8 Max+: the basics

The Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+ are advanced, LiDAR-based smart robot vacuums available in black and white colors. These models come equipped with auto-empty bins, obstacle avoidance systems, and advanced mopping capabilities. They also feature Roborock’s new dual roller system, which includes a floating brush housing and a side brush for enhanced cleaning performance.

A comparison of color options for the Roborock S8+ and Roborock Q8 Max+. The Roborock S8+ is shown in both black and white variants on the left, and the Roborock Q8 Max+ is shown in the same color options on the right. Each robot vacuum is accompanied by its charging dock and a smartphone displaying the Roborock app.
Color choices for Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+ © Vacuum Wars

Key differences between the Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+

Mopping systems comparison

One of the most significant differences between the Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+ lies in their mopping systems. 

Although both models feature similar-looking mopping pads and tanks, the Q8 Max+ offers a more basic mopping setup. It functions much like older-style robot mops, where the mop pad must be manually attached for mopping runs and removed when vacuuming carpets. That means you must do two separate cleaning cycles if your home has a mix of hard floors and carpets.

A close-up of a person’s hands attaching the mop pad to the bottom of the Roborock Q8 Max+ robot vacuum.
Attaching the mop pad to the Roborock Q8 Max+ © Vacuum Wars

In contrast, the S8+ has an automatic mop pad lifting feature. That means the system automatically detects carpets and lifts the mop pad to prevent them from getting wet. So you can vacuum carpets and mop hard floors in a single run. This makes the S8+ not only more efficient but also far more convenient.

Additionally, the S8+ boasts superior mopping mechanics and hardware. It has a vibrating mop pad that applies six Newtons of downward pressure as it mops. In our evaluations, the S8+ consistently outperformed the Q8 Max+ on mopping tasks, effectively handling challenges like dried-on grape juice, dried coffee stains, and glow-in-the-dark residue.

A close-up view of the mop pad attached to the bottom of the Roborock S8+ robot vacuum, showing the pad securely in place.
A closer look at the mop setup on the Roborock S8+ © Vacuum Wars

Obstacle Avoidance Systems

Another major difference between the Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+ is their obstacle avoidance systems. Both models are equipped with front-mounted sensors that use 3D structured light for obstacle detection. However, the S8+ goes a step further with additional side-mounted laser sensors and a built-in light to better navigate darker areas. 

Close-up comparison of the obstacle avoidance systems on the Roborock Q8 Max+ (top) and Roborock S8+ (bottom).
Q8 Max+ and S8+ obstacle avoidance systems side by side. © Vacuum Wars

In our obstacle avoidance evaluations, the S8+ emerged as the clear winner, earning an above-average score of nine. The Q8 Max+ scored a below-average score of six. 

A comparison chart showing the obstacle avoidance scores for the Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+. The S8+ is shown on the left with a score of 9, the Q8 Max+ is in the center with a score of 6, and an average score of 8 is displayed on the right.
Comparing obstacle avoidance. © Vacuum Wars

Despite this difference, both models outperform the majority of robot vacuums that lack front-mounted obstacle avoidance sensors, offering a significant upgrade in navigation capabilities.

When it comes to navigation, both the Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+ use top-mounted LiDAR sensors for mapping and maneuvering around your home. These models could map floor plans in roughly five minutes, demonstrating better-than-average navigation efficiency. However, the S8+ excelled in this area, offering even more precise and reliable navigation.

A comparison chart showing the navigation efficiency of the Roborock S8+, Roborock Q8 Max+, and the average score. The S8+ has a navigation efficiency of 0.88 m² per minute, the Q8 Max+ has 0.69 m² per minute, and the average is 0.67 m² per minute.
The S8+ speeds ahead in navigation efficiency! © Vacuum Wars

In terms of battery life and battery efficiency, the Q8 Max+ takes the lead and can run for up to 240 minutes on low power, according to Roborock. In contrast, the S8+ is rated for 180 minutes, which is a significant difference. 

A comparison chart showing the official battery life on low power mode for the Roborock S8+, Roborock Q8 Max+, and the average score. The S8+ has a battery life of 180 minutes, the Q8 Max+ has 240 minutes, and the average is 144 minutes.
The Q8 Max+ takes the lead in battery endurance. © Vacuum Wars

Plus, in our battery efficiency evaluations, where we ran the robots on all power settings on a fixed floor plan, the Q8 Max+ significantly outperformed expectations. However, the S8+ delivered an average performance.

A comparison chart showing the battery efficiency at the best settings for the Roborock S8+, Roborock Q8 Max+, and the average score. The S8+ has an efficiency of 1.6 minutes per percent, the Q8 Max+ has 2.0 minutes per percent, and the average is 1.6 minutes per percent.
Q8 Max+ delivers the best battery efficiency. © Vacuum Wars

Power and Performance

Both robot vacuum mop combos excel at their core task of sweeping up debris from hard floors and carpets. And Roborock’s reputation for strong performance holds true here. 

Both models effectively handled a range of debris, from fine particles to extra-large pieces. They also performed exceptionally well in picking up pet hair, though longer human hair did tend to accumulate on the rollers. It’s a common issue with all robot vacuums but worth mentioning.

In our carpet deep clean evaluation, where we embedded sand into medium pile carpets and then weighed the bins before and after a timed run, the S8+ stood out with a significantly above-average performance. The Q8 Max+, however, scored slightly below average.

A comparison chart showing the results of the Carpet Deep Clean Test for the Roborock S8+, Roborock Q8 Max+, and the average score. The S8+ scored 84, the Q8 Max+ scored 74, and the average score is 77.
The S8+ takes the crown for carpet deep cleaning. © Vacuum Wars

This difference may be attributed to the S8+ having a higher stated suction power (6,000 Pascals vs. 5,500 Pascals). Despite this, the Q8 Max+ showed its strength in other areas. Particularly, in our power evaluation, the Q8 Max+ scored slightly higher than the S8+ in airflow and crevice pickup evaluations, revealing a mix of results in overall performance.

A comparison chart showing the airflow in CFM (cubic feet per minute) at maximum power for the Roborock S8+, Roborock Q8 Max+, and the average score. The S8+ has an airflow of 12 CFM, the Q8 Max+ has 17 CFM, and the average is 16 CFM.
Q8 Max+ leads with superior airflow power! © Vacuum Wars

App and Auto Empty Bins

Both the S8+ and Q8 Max+ use the official Roborock app, renowned for being one of the best in the market. The app is user-friendly and packed with valuable features, including virtual barriers, no-mop zones, room and zone cleaning, multi-floor mapping, and the ability to clean along floor directions. 

A smartphone screen displaying the Roborock app interface.
Control your clean with the Roborock app. © Vacuum Wars

Both models also offer Carpet Boost and allow customization of auto-empty bin behaviors. Their auto-empty bins are identical, designed to use disposable bags that can hold up to seven weeks of debris. In our evaluation, both bins performed nearly flawlessly. 

A close-up of a person’s hands holding a dust bag that is compatible with the Roborock S8+ and Q8 Max+ auto-empty bin system.
Compatible dust bin for S8+ and Q8 Max+ models. © Vacuum Wars

However, unlike the more expensive Roborock S8 MaxV and Max Ultra, these models do not automatically wash and dry the mop pads. So, you’ll still need to handle that task manually.

Roborock S8+ vs Q8 Max+: Value and recommendation

In our assessment, the Roborock S8+ robot vacuum and mop stands out as the clear winner, thanks to its advanced VibraRise mopping system, enhanced obstacle avoidance capabilities, and superior carpet deep cleaning performance. While both models offer excellent value, the S8+ offers more advanced features, making it the better choice for an automated vacuum cleaner, especially if you can find it at a similar price to the Q8 Max+.

Top Choice
Roborock S8+ Robot Vacuum and Mop
4.2
$759.99

The Roborock S8+ proves itself as the superior option for those looking for an advanced and multifunctional robot vacuum. It excels with its unique VibraRise mopping system that not only cleans but adjusts automatically when transitioning from hard floors to carpets, ensuring a seamless cleaning experience. The inclusion of robust obstacle avoidance technology further enhances its appeal, allowing for more precise navigation around home obstacles. Its standout feature, however, is its potent carpet cleaning ability, making it an ideal choice for homes with mixed flooring. See Full Review

Features:
4.4
Mopping:
3.8
Performance:
4.9
Obstacle Avoidance:
4.1
Pet Rating:
3.9
Battery Life:
4.1
Navigation:
4.1
Buy on Amazon Buy on Home Depot
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
12/04/2024 06:51 pm GMT

The Roborock S8+ robot vacuum and mop stands out as the clear winner, thanks to its advanced VibraRise mopping system, enhanced obstacle avoidance capabilities, and superior carpet deep cleaning performance.

Vacuum Wars
Roborock Q8 Max+ Robot Vacuum and Mop
4.2
$819.99 $659.99

The Roborock Q8 Max+ stands out for its exceptional battery life and efficiency, making it a solid choice for larger homes or extended cleaning sessions. Its ability to run up to 240 minutes on a single charge ensures thorough coverage without frequent recharges. Additionally, the model offers robust navigation capabilities, reliably mapping and maneuvering through various home layouts with precision. Its strong performance on both hard floors and carpets, coupled with a straightforward mopping setup, underscores its practicality and ease of use, making the Q8 Max+ an attractive option for a dependable cleaning companion. See Full Review

Features:
4.0
Mopping:
3.3
Performance:
5.0
Obstacle Avoidance:
3.2
Pet Rating:
3.4
Battery Life:
4.5
Navigation:
4.5
Buy on Amazon Buy on Home Depot
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.
12/04/2024 06:52 pm GMT
The Roborock S8+ (left) and Roborock Q8 Max+ (right) are positioned side by side on a wooden surface, each docked in their respective auto-empty bins. Both models feature a sleek white design with black and silver accents.
Roborock S8+ on the left, Q8 Max+ on the right © Vacuum Wars
Watch this full review on YouTube.
 

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Lisa Tatar

author avatar
Lisa Tatar
Since joining Vacuum Wars in 2020, Lisa has leveraged her extensive background in communications to produce reliable, informative content for readers. As a working parent and pet owner, she brings practical insights to her work, understanding the real-world challenges of home cleaning. Passionate about helping consumers make informed choices, Lisa combines her personal and professional knowledge to ensure her writing delivers clear, valuable information.

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