- DJI’s First Vacuum with Drone DNA: The Romo robot vacuum is DJI’s debut in home cleaning, repurposing its famed drone obstacle-sensing tech for ultra-precise navigation [1]. It can detect objects as thin as 2 mm (like cables) and avoid them with ease [2].
- Record-Breaking Suction Power: Boasting 25,000 Pa of suction – the highest seen yet in a robot vacuum [3] – the Romo promises deep cleaning power, paired with dual anti-tangle brush rollers for hair pickup [4].
- Mechanical Arms & Smart Mopping: DJI equipped Romo with extendable dual “robotic arms” (flexible side brushes) to reach into tight corners [5]. It also features twin spinning mop pads and a 164 ml water tank for mopping, plus an advanced base that auto-empties dust and washes the mops [6] [7].
- Advanced Eyes and AI Brain: Romo uses binocular fisheye cameras + LiDAR sensors (three wide-angle lasers) to map rooms and identify hazards in real time [8] [9]. The AI-driven system slows down for small debris (to avoid scattering) and adjusts suction on the fly [10]. It even doubles as a mobile security camera with live video and two-way audio via the DJI Home app [11].
- Three Models & Transparent Design: DJI launched three Romo variants – the Romo S (white body), Romo A (transparent top panel), and Romo P (fully transparent, showcasing internals) [12]. All share core features, but the flagship Romo P adds a special compartment for cleaning solution (for targeted antibacterial/degreasing mopping) [13].
- Global Launch and Pricing: First released in China in Aug 2025, Romo is expected to go global later in 2025 [14]. Prices start at ¥4,699 ($650) for the base Romo S, up to ¥6,799 ($950) for the transparent Romo P [15]. DJI’s entry comes as rival brands like Roborock, Dreame, iRobot, Ecovacs and others are rolling out their most advanced robot vacuums ever, setting the stage for a high-tech showdown in late 2024–2025.
DJI Enters the Robot Vacuum Arena
DJI is world-famous for drones and cameras – so its move into robot vacuums came as a surprise to many [16]. Codenamed “DJI Romo,” this vacuum was officially unveiled in China on August 6, 2025 [17] after months of leaks and teasers. Observers immediately noted DJI’s strategy: injecting drone-grade technology into home cleaning. The Romo’s design and capabilities reflect DJI’s expertise in sensors, AI, and robotics:
- Drone-Caliber Navigation: The Romo uses DJI’s omnidirectional obstacle sensing, a system borrowed from its drones [18]. A pair of fisheye cameras and three wide-angle LiDAR scanners give it a 360° view of its environment [19]. DJI claims it can recognize and avoid obstacles as small as 2 mm thin – think power cords or pet accidents – which is far beyond typical robot vacuums [20]. In practice, this means Romo can deftly maneuver around chair legs, toys, and even stray socks without getting tangled or stuck. Engadget notes that “DJI’s ROMO vacuums can easily avoid furniture” and other common hazards as they clean [21] [22]. The vacuum’s AI will even slow down near lightweight debris (like spilled pet food) to avoid scattering it, then boost suction to suck it up [23]. This level of awareness and adaptive behavior is a step up from many current models.
- High Suction and Cleaning Performance: With a whopping 25,000 Pascal suction motor, the Romo outguns virtually every rival in raw power (for comparison, most high-end bots offer ~5,000–10,000 Pa). Vacuum Wars reports this is “the highest official number [they have] tracked to date.” [24] Paired with a 9-blade metal impeller and optimized airflow, Romo is engineered to lift even embedded dust from carpets [25]. It sports dual main brushes in an anti-tangle configuration to capture hair without jams [26], plus two extendable side brushes that act like little arms sweeping dirt out of corners and edges. This is one of Romo’s flashiest features – in fact, DJI literally gave it “robotic arms” that stretch out for corner cleaning [27]. These arms can’t pick up objects or lift the vacuum (they’re essentially flexible brush extenders, not graspers), but they help Romo reach spots that round robots often miss [28]. The vacuum also doubles as a mop: it carries dual spinning mop pads and a modest 164 ml water tank for damp mopping hardwood or tile [29]. When Romo approaches a rug, the mop pads automatically lift out of the way to keep carpets dry [30].
- Smart Docking Station: DJI didn’t skimp on the base station either. The Romo’s dock is a true “all-in-one” hub – it empties the dustbin, washes and dries the mop pads, refills water, and recharges the robot, all in about 2.5 hours [31]. It even has a UV sterilizer for the dust bag to keep things hygienic [32]. DJI claims you can go up to 200 days without manually servicing the dock (thanks to a large dust bag and separated clean/dirty water tanks) [33]. Notably, the top-tier Romo P model has an extra tank for cleaning solution – you can load an antibacterial or degreasing agent that the robot will automatically mix in for kitchen or bathroom cleaning [34]. This kind of customizable mopping feature is rare; it highlights DJI’s aim to one-up established players on innovation.
- Home Surveillance & Smart Control: Building on its camera know-how, DJI turned the Romo into a mobile security cam. All Romo models have an onboard camera and microphone, enabling remote live monitoring of your home via the DJI app – you can drive the robot around while streaming video, talk through its speaker, and even use it to check on pets [35]. Of course, voice assistant integration is supported (and privacy is addressed by storing maps locally) [36]. In essence, Romo can patrol your house like a roving CCTV when it’s not cleaning. This “bonus” feature leverages DJI’s imaging expertise and sets Romo apart from most vacuums that have cameras solely for navigation.
It’s clear DJI swung for the fences with the Romo, packing in cutting-edge features for a premium, feature-rich robot vacuum. As TechRadar put it, “if the Romo is real…it could represent the most exciting new addition to the robot vacuum market in some time,” potentially “ripe for disruption” by the drone giant [37]. However, DJI is entering a fiercely competitive arena. Let’s examine how Romo stacks up against other upcoming and recent flagship robot vacuums from leading brands in late 2024 and 2025.
Showdown: DJI Romo vs. 2025’s Smartest Robot Vacuums
The high-end robot vacuum space is abuzz with innovation. Established brands and newcomers alike are introducing features that would have sounded like sci-fi a few years ago – from robots that pick up clutter or wash themselves on the fly, to vacuums that climb stairs. DJI’s Romo joins this race against heavyweights like Roborock, Ecovacs, iRobot (Roomba), Dreame, and others. Below is a feature and price comparison of the DJI Romo and several top competitors expected to vie for the smart cleaning crown in 2024–2025:
| Robot Vacuum Model | Suction Power | Notable Features | Price (approx) | Release |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DJI Romo P (flagship) | 25,000 Pa [38] | Drone-grade obstacle sensors (2 mm object avoidance) [39]; twin cameras + LiDAR mapping; anti-tangle dual brushes; extendable side-arm brushes for corners [40]; dual spinning mop pads (auto-lift on carpet); camera with 2-way audio for remote monitoring [41]; self-emptying & self-cleaning dock (fast 2.5 h recharge) [42]; extra solution tank for deep cleaning (Romo P only) [43]. | ¥6,799 (China) ~$950 [44] | China Aug 2025; Global late 2025 [45] (US launch TBC) |
| Roborock Saros Z70 | 22,000 Pa [46] | OmniGrip robotic arm grabs small objects (~300 g) like socks [47]; 5-axis arm folds into top of unit when not in use [48]; AI obstacle detection marks items on first pass and deploys arm to clear them on second pass [49]; dual spinning mops for floors [50]; new VertiBeam lateral sensors for improved obstacle avoidance (cables, irregular shapes) [51]; optional Multifunction Dock 4.0 auto-empties and washes mop [52] [53]. | TBA (Flagship, likely > $1,500) | Unveiled at CES 2025 [54]; Expected 2025 [55] (Exact date TBD) |
| Dreame Aqua10 Ultra | 30,000 Pa [56] | AquaRoll self-cleaning roller mop – continually rinses itself with fresh water and scrapes off dirt into a separate tank during cleaning [57] (minimizes dirty mopping); after a run, dock deep-cleans the roller with 100 °C water to sterilize [58]; FluffRoll tech with 12 nozzles and smart pressure to tackle deep stains [59]; AutoSeal guard covers wet roller on carpets to keep them dry [60]; robot can raise itself 30 mm to climb thresholds or bumps [61]; dual AI cameras + LDS LiDAR to recognize 240+ obstacles [62]; Matter-compatible. | TBA (Est. similar to X50 Ultra: ~$1,699) [63] | Q4 2025 expected (announced Jul 2025) [64] [65] |
| Dreame X50 Ultra | 20,000 Pa [66] | Retractable “legs” lift the robot up to 60 mm (2.36 in) to climb high thresholds or even a step [67]; VersaLift design lowers profile to 89 mm (3.5 in) to get under furniture [68]; AI camera navigation for tight spaces; shock absorbers to reduce noise on bumps; DuoBrush dual roller system handles long hair up to 30 cm without tangles [69]; extends both brush and mop pad outward to scrub corners better [70]; 5 specialized cleaning modes; advanced auto-empty, hot-water mop washing & hot-air drying dock. | $1,699 at launch (now ~$1,199 on sale) [71] [72] | Launched early 2025 (Spring 2025) [73] |
| iRobot Roomba Combo Max 705 + AutoWash Dock | Not disclosed (175× the suction of Roomba 600 series) [74] | Dry Carpet Mop Protection: features a PowerSpin roller mop that auto-lifts a protective cover over the mop when approaching carpet, preventing any leaks or wet spots [75]. Mop extends to clean edges and continuously self-rinses during operation [76]. The AutoWash Dock provides hands-free maintenance: it empties dust (75-day capacity), washes and dries the mop with heated air, and auto-refills water [77]. Dual rubber vacuum brushes resist tangles (signature Roomba design) [78]; AI obstacle avoidance and smart mapping via iRobot OS; voice & app controls with advanced scheduling and zone cleaning [79]. | £1,099 / €1,099 (~$1,200) [80] | Launched mid-2025 (EU); NA & Japan release in late 2025 [81] |
| Ecovacs Deebot X9 Pro Omni | 16,600 Pa [82] | 5-in-1 Omni Station automates everything: self-empties dust, washes the OZMO mopping roller (with hot water), then dries it with hot air, and even stores detergent, enabling up to 150 days of no manual intervention [83]. Innovative OZMO Roller Mop (a horizontal rolling mop) self-washes in real-time to leave zero streaks [84]. ZeroTangle 3.0 brush system (V-shaped main brush + anti-tangle side brushes) prevents hair clogs [85]. Triple-Lift feature raises the mop, side brush, and main brush when needed (e.g. on carpet) to avoid mess [86]. Uses AIVI 3D AI obstacle avoidance + LiDAR for precise navigation (recognizes 100+ object types) [87]. Full edge-to-edge cleaning coverage via TrueEdge sensors. Supports Alexa/Google and is Matter-ready. | $1,599 MSRP (often $1,299 promo) [88] | Released mid-2025 (won multiple “Best of 2025” awards) [89] [90] |
Table: Key features and pricing of DJI Romo and top competing robot vacuums in the premium segment (2024–2025).
As seen above, each contender brings its own strengths and innovations. Below, we dive deeper into how DJI’s Romo compares to each – analyzing strengths, weaknesses, and unique features of each model.
Roborock Saros Z70 – The Robot with an Arm
Roborock has long been a top-tier brand for robot vacuums, known for excellent navigation and cleaning performance. With the Saros Z70, Roborock is pushing the envelope by adding a foldable robotic arm – effectively giving the vacuum a “hand” to assist its cleaning. This model was revealed at CES 2025 and garnered huge buzz as the world’s first robot vac capable of picking up objects [91] [92].
Strengths & Innovations: The Saros Z70’s standout feature is its OmniGrip arm, which stows on top of the unit and deploys when needed [93] [94]. This five-axis arm can extend, unfold, twist, and grip both horizontally and vertically [95]. It can lift items up to 300 g, such as socks, small toys, or cables, and move them out of the way [96]. In practice, the Z70 first scans and maps obstacles during an initial cleaning pass; it marks any items it couldn’t vacuum under or around. Then, it returns to each obstruction and uses the arm to grab or nudge it aside, allowing the vacuum to finish the area properly [97]. This two-pass approach with AI object recognition is cutting-edge – it aims to solve the age-old “floor clutter” problem that stops other robots in their tracks. Early reports praise the concept: T3 called it “exciting… because who doesn’t want a robot vacuum with its own extendable arm, right?!” [98] [99]. The Z70 also doesn’t skimp on fundamentals: with 22,000 Pa suction [100] it’s nearly as powerful as DJI’s Romo, and it features Roborock’s usual LiDAR navigation and smart mapping for efficient cleaning routes [101]. It’s a hybrid vac-mop with dual spinning mop pads and will be compatible with a new “Multifunctional Dock 4.0” that can auto-empty dust and wash the mops [102] [103]. Roborock also introduced VertiBeam lateral obstacle sensors on the Z70, which widen its field of view for low-lying hazards (cables, furniture legs, etc.) [104] [105], improving avoidance in tandem with the arm.
Weaknesses & Unknowns: The Saros Z70 is an ambitious machine, but there are a few caveats. First, price – Roborock hasn’t announced it yet [106], but all signs point to a very expensive device (likely well over $1,500) given the complex arm mechanism and high-end specs. This could make it a niche purchase. Also, the added mechanical complexity introduces more potential points of failure or maintenance. The OmniGrip arm will need to reliably recognize and handle objects without damaging them (or the robot) – a challenging task. Some observers, while impressed, express a bit of skepticism: T3’s Home Editor half-jokingly wrote “I don’t know how to feel about it,” noting that it’s a bold but unproven feature [107] [108]. It remains to be seen how smoothly the arm operates in real home environments – will it accidentally fling things or struggle with certain shapes? Finally, the Z70’s availability is set for 2025, but not specific on dates [109]. Roborock has other models (Saros 10 and 10R) launching alongside, which might be more affordable, leaving the Z70 as a halo product. Bottom line: if the Z70 works as advertised, it could virtually eliminate the need to pre-tidy your floors – a game-changer. However, DJI’s Romo, while it has “arms,” cannot actually pick up items – so in this aspect, Roborock’s tech is more advanced. On the other hand, Romo’s obstacle avoidance is so good it might navigate around clutter without needing to move it. For consumers, the question will be: is a vacuum with a literal arm worth the likely sky-high price and complexity?
Dreame’s Dynamic Duo – X50 Ultra and Aqua10 Ultra
Chinese brand Dreame (also known as DreameTech) has rapidly become an innovation leader in robot vacuums. In late 2024 and 2025, Dreame is introducing not one but two flagship models tackling different challenges: the Dreame X50 Ultra focuses on navigation and mobility (even stair climbing), while the upcoming Dreame Aqua10 Ultra revolutionizes mopping with a self-cleaning roller.
Dreame X50 Ultra – Climbing Stairs and Going Low: Launched in early 2025, the X50 Ultra turned heads by addressing a limitation most robot vacs have: inability to handle tall obstacles or very low clearances. The X50 Ultra features retractable “legs” or wheels that can lift the whole robot by up to 60 mm [110]. This means it can climb over high thresholds, thick rugs, and even step onto low stairs or ledges. It’s one of the first robots with a semblance of stair-climbing ability (though it can’t go up a full flight of stairs yet, it might handle a single step). Conversely, it also has VersaLift navigation, allowing it to drop its height to just 89 mm (3.5 in) by retracting its LiDAR turret, so it can scoot under couches or beds that other bots couldn’t [111]. This dual ability – going higher and lower – is very innovative. The X50 packs plenty of power (20,000 Pa suction [112]) and uses an AI camera to maneuver in tight quarters without bumping furniture [113]. Reviewers highlight the noise-reducing shock absorbers and the way it extends its cleaning elements (brush and mop pad) to reach into corners [114]. Essentially, Dreame tried to make a robot that rarely gets stuck, whether the challenge is a baby gate bar, a door threshold, or a low TV stand. The X50 Ultra also comes with a robust “Ultra” dock that empties dust and washes its mop pads with hot water then hot-air dries them, similar to Roborock and Ecovacs top stations [115] [116]. Strengths: Versatility in navigation (fewer places off-limits), very high suction, and advanced self-maintenance. It’s been praised for tackling scenarios that stop other bots – for instance, climbing onto a sliding door rail or crossing between different floor heights without user help. Weaknesses: The extra hardware (legs mechanism) makes it large and heavy, and at ~$1,699 it’s very pricey [117]. It also launched initially in China and Europe; US availability is lagging. And while it can lift itself a bit, it still can’t do full staircase cleaning (that remains a future dream). DJI’s Romo doesn’t claim stair climbing, so in that niche feature Dreame is ahead. But Romo’s obstacle avoidance might be superior to X50’s (200 object types recognized vs. DJI’s AI claims of limitless learning).
Dreame Aqua10 Ultra – Self-Cleaning Mop on the Go: Announced for Q4 2025, the Aqua10 Ultra addresses a different pain point: the cleanliness of the mop during a cleaning session. Normally, robots drag a mop cloth until it’s dirty, then return to dock to wash it. The Aqua10 introduces an “AquaRoll” – a continuous roller mop that cleans itself as it mops [118]. This cylindrical mop (imagine a mini paint roller under the robot) is constantly rinsed by fresh water from onboard nozzles (12 of them) and scraped by a built-in squeegee to remove dirty water [119] [120]. In effect, the robot is always mopping with a clean roller, greatly reducing the spread of dirt [121]. T3 touted this as possibly “the best self-cleaning features I’ve ever seen” in a robot mop [122]. The Aqua10 still has a dock for deep cleaning: once done, it returns to a base that boils water to 100°C to sterilize the roller and flush away grime [123] – tackling bacteria and odor build-up. With 30,000 Pa suction [124], it even exceeds DJI Romo’s power, making it one of the strongest vacuums on record. It also sports Dreame’s latest carpet-avoidance tricks: the AutoSeal Roller Guard which automatically covers the wet roller with a barrier when the robot transitions onto carpet [125] (preventing any moisture from touching rugs), and the robot can physically lift its body 30 mm (using a mechanism likely similar to the X50’s legs) to hop onto carpets or door saddles without dragging a wet mop across [126]. The Aqua10 Ultra has advanced obstacle avoidance (dual AI cams + LiDAR, recognizing 240+ object types) [127] and is Matter-certified for smart home integration [128]. Strengths: Unparalleled mopping hygiene – it keeps both the floor and itself clean in one go. Very high suction and smart automation all around. Weaknesses: Still unknown are its cost (expected to be in the same ~$1,500+ league) and how bulky the system is. The on-board water and waste tanks for the roller mean it might sacrifice dust bin capacity or battery space. It’s also not released yet, so real-world performance is unproven. Compared to DJI’s Romo, the Aqua10’s approach to mopping is more sophisticated (Romo can’t clean its mop until it returns to base), but Romo’s dual-pad system may scrub better on certain stains. These two have a different focus: DJI emphasizing obstacle navigation and all-around capability, Dreame laser-focused on never mopping with dirty water. High-end consumers will decide which matters more in daily use.
iRobot Roomba Combo Max 705 – Polishing the Pioneer
iRobot’s Roomba is practically synonymous with robot vacuums – they invented the category. In recent years, however, competitors leapfrogged Roomba with features like auto-empty docks and advanced mopping. 2025’s Roomba Combo Max 705 shows iRobot fighting back by fixing a major flaw: robots that mop often stain or wet your carpets. As T3 put it, iRobot finally addressed “one of the biggest flaws in robot mop vacuums” with this model [129].
Strengths & Innovations: The Combo Max 705 is a 2-in-1 vacuum/mop, and its headline feature is a new mop lifting system with a protective cover. When the robot approaches carpeting, it automatically raises the mop and slides a PerfectEdge protective cover into place over the wet roller [130]. This acts like a diaper for the mop – ensuring “carpets stay dry” and no dirty water drips as it vacuums carpeted areas [131]. Older hybrids sometimes inadvertently dampened rugs, so this is a welcome solution for mixed-floor homes. The Combo Max also uses a unique PowerSpin roller mop that continuously cleans itself during use [132]. It has a rinsing mechanism (presumably pulling water from an onboard tank over the roller) to keep the mop from just smearing filth. And like many rivals, the robot can extend that mop roller out to reach into corners better [133]. iRobot paired the vacuum with a next-generation AutoWash Dock that significantly reduces maintenance: it self-empties the dustbin for up to 75 days, auto-washes the mop roller with a cleaning solution, then dries the mop with heated air, and also refills the robot’s water tank [134]. Essentially, it matches the “fully automated” docks of Ecovacs and Roborock, but with iRobot’s polish. Importantly, iRobot’s software is known for reliability and smart mapping – the Combo Max uses AI-driven navigation to avoid obstacles (toys, socks, pet waste) and integrates with the iRobot Home app and voice assistants for sophisticated scheduling (clean specific rooms or around specific objects on demand) [135]. T3 notes it delivers “a deep, hands-free clean” and finally convinced a skeptical reviewer that modern Roombas can “start to change my mind” about robot vacs being troublesome [136] [137]. Another plus: dual rubber brushes for vacuuming, which are great for pet hair and have been an iRobot signature – they don’t tangle easily and actually help break down dirt on carpet fibers.
Weaknesses: While advanced, the Combo Max 705 doesn’t push the envelope in raw specs like some competitors. iRobot doesn’t publish a Pa suction figure, instead stating it has “175× more suction than the Roomba 600 series” [138] – which roughly translates to around 4,000 Pa by some estimates, far below DJI Romo’s 25k or Dreame’s 30k. iRobot prioritizes practical cleaning efficiency over spec races, but some consumers might see the lower suction and think it’s weaker (Roombas tend to rely on agitation and smart passes more than brute force suction). Also, the Combo Max lacks the “wow-factor” features of others – no robotic arms, no stair-climbing, etc. It’s more about refining core functionality. The price (~$1,200) is high given these specs, showing you’re paying for iRobot’s brand, software, and robustness. Another consideration: iRobot’s obstacle avoidance, while improved, has in past models not been as razor-sharp as Roborock’s ReactiveAI or DJI’s drone-derived system. It’s good (especially at avoiding pet poop, thanks to their famous P.O.O.P. guarantee), but the camera-only approach may not catch every thin cable like DJI’s LiDAR can. Lastly, availability: it launched first in Europe in mid-2025, and North America waits until late 2025 [139], meaning by the time it’s broadly available, others like DJI might already be in the market. Bottom line: The Roomba Combo Max 705 is iRobot’s statement that they can play at the top tier again, delivering a very user-friendly, low-maintenance experience. It’s likely the most “polished” ecosystem (the app, support, etc.), and some will trust Roomba’s long-term durability over newer brands. In a direct compare, DJI’s Romo outguns the Roomba on raw tech (suction, sensors), but the Roomba might win on simplicity and proven floor-cleaning algorithms. It really depends if one values cutting-edge innovation or time-tested reliability.
Ecovacs Deebot X9 Pro Omni – The All-Rounder Champ
Ecovacs has been a pioneer in the robot mop/vacuum arena, and the Deebot X9 Pro Omni represents the culmination of their tech in 2025. This model has already won multiple “Best Robot Vacuum” awards in 2025 [140], thanks to its balanced excellence in vacuuming, mopping, and automation. Rather than one radical gimmick, the X9 Pro Omni refines all aspects into a formidable all-in-one machine.
Strengths & Innovations: The X9 Pro Omni’s hallmark is its OMNI Station, a base that manages every aspect of upkeep. When the robot returns, the station automatically empties the dustbin, washes the mop, dries the mop with hot air, and refills water, even adding cleaning solution if used [141]. Ecovacs was one of the first to do this (with earlier models like X1 Omni), and the X9’s station is the most advanced yet – it can go about 150 days (nearly 5 months) without user intervention in ideal conditions [142]. This rivals DJI’s claim of 200 days for Romo’s dock [143], putting them in the same league of ultra-convenience. The X9 Pro introduced a novel mopping system: instead of two pads, it has a single OZMO Turbo roller mop – a horizontal rolling cylinder under the bot that scrubs the floor [144]. This roller mop self-washes continuously (similar concept to Dreame’s AquaRoll) to prevent streaking [145]. It’s effective on stains and avoids the circular swirl marks that pad-style mops can leave. For vacuuming, the X9 has 16,600 Pa suction [146] (very high, though some now exceed it) and uses Ecovacs’ ZeroTangle 3.0 system: a V-shaped brush that, combined with silicone side brushes, greatly reduces hair tangles [147]. Users with pets appreciate this, as hair wrapping is a common issue. Another clever feature is the Triple Lift system – the X9 can lift its main brush, side brush, and mop roller all at once when needed [148]. For example, when transitioning onto a carpet, it lifts the wet roller and side brush up, so they don’t touch the carpet, and also lifts the main vacuum brush to avoid dragging dirt, essentially “hovering” over the carpet while vacuuming it with suction only. This ensures truly dry carpet and no cross-contamination – a thoughtful design also seen in Roborock’s recent models (they lift mops) but Ecovacs extends it to every cleaning component. Navigation-wise, the X9 Pro Omni uses a combination of AIVI 3D AI (a camera-based AI obstacle recognition) and advanced LiDAR mapping [149]. It reportedly recognizes 100+ object types and can even navigate in low light. Edge cleaning is improved by TruEdge 2.0 sensors that let it get right against walls. In summary, the X9 is an excellent generalist – Vacuum Wars crowned it mid-2025’s best overall robot vacuum because it delivered top-tier results in five categories: hard floors, carpets, pet hair, mopping, and overall cleaning [150]. It doesn’t have a party trick like a robotic arm or climbing legs, but it checks nearly every box extremely well.
Weaknesses: The Deebot X9 Pro Omni’s main downsides are size and price. It’s a big unit, and the Omni station is quite bulky (it holds water tanks, a dust bag, etc., so it’s like having a small appliance in your room). Those short on space might find it imposing. At an MSRP of $1,599 (though often discounted to ~$1,299) [151], it’s expensive – albeit on par with other flagships. Also, more moving parts (like the washing system, water pumps, fans for drying) mean more components that need maintenance or could break; Ecovacs owners sometimes report higher maintenance on older models (e.g., needing to replace a dock part or clean sensors frequently). Another consideration is software: Ecovacs’ app is feature-rich but not as refined or user-friendly as iRobot’s, according to some reviews. The X9’s obstacle avoidance, while good, might not match DJI’s claim of 2 mm precision – vacuum reviewers found it avoids most objects but occasionally might bump smaller items. Lastly, with a 220 ml dustbin [152], the robot itself has less capacity, assuming frequent auto-empty from the base. In day-to-day use, the X9 Pro Omni is often seen as the benchmark to beat. So how does DJI’s Romo compare? The Romo actually surpasses the X9 in suction (25k vs 16.6k Pa) and matches it in obstacle avoidance ambition. Romo’s dual pads vs. Ecovacs’ single roller is a matter of preference; the roller might be better for continuous cleaning, but dual spinning pads can apply more pressure on a spot (helpful for sticky stains). DJI’s advantage might be its truly state-of-the-art sensing (leveraging drone tech), whereas Ecovacs’ advantage is being an iteration of several generations of robot – meaning it’s likely very refined after lessons learned from X1, X2, etc. Consumers choosing between them will look at ecosystem and trust: DJI is new in home appliances (so it’s unproven in reliability and support), while Ecovacs has a track record (mixed as it may be, they have many service centers and experience). Enthusiasts will also note that vacuum testing communities have given the X9 Pro Omni glowing endorsements [153], so DJI will have to really deliver on its promises to unseat it.
Other Notable Competitors
In addition to the major players above, a few other brands are worth mention in the premium and innovative segment:
- Xiaomi / Roborock (Tech Ecosystem): Xiaomi often partners with Roborock or sub-brands for its vacuums. The Xiaomi X20 Max, launched in early 2025, is a high-end model boasting 8,000 Pa suction and advanced obstacle avoidance (structured light + edge lasers) [154]. It features auto mop washing and self-drying similar to others. While not as powerful as some flagships, Xiaomi’s offering tends to be priced more competitively and integrates into their smart home app ecosystem.
- EZVIZ RS20 Max: Known for security cameras, EZVIZ jumped into robot vacuums with the RS20 series. The new RS20 Max (2025) impressed reviewers with exceptional AI mapping and navigation – it recognizes over 100 household objects and has very efficient path planning [155]. T3’s tester said it “might have the most advanced mapping I’ve ever seen” [156]. The catch? Price – it’s quite expensive (over £1,000) and EZVIZ is still establishing itself in this market [157] [158]. It shows how even security camera companies see opportunity in robot vacs (much like DJI), leveraging their AI vision expertise.
- Yeedi M14 Plus (Ozmo Roller Mop): Yeedi, an offshoot of Ecovacs focusing on value, nonetheless introduced an innovative Ozmo Roller Mop system in its latest M14 Plus. This horizontal roller (co-developed with Tineco) goes through a four-step cleaning process to avoid cross-contamination and keep mop water clean [159] [160]. T3 proclaimed “this Yeedi… has the best mop roller I’ve ever seen” for its ability to prevent dirty water from spreading [161]. While Yeedi’s robot is much cheaper than others (several hundred dollars), it lacks the raw power and some automation (no auto-refill dock, for example). Still, it’s noteworthy as a sign that even mid-range brands are innovating (in this case, focusing on mop hygiene, similar in spirit to Dreame’s approach).
- Others (Shark, LG, Samsung, etc.): Traditional appliance makers are also active. LG in 2025 showed a robot vacuum with a built-in sink-like station that hides under a counter – blending into furniture (for those who dislike bulky docks) [162]. Samsung continues its JetBot series, and Shark has introduced a 2-in-1 vacuum-mop with a self-cleaning brushroll [163] (Shark’s niche is powerful suction at lower cost, though generally without the advanced smart features of the Chinese brands). There’s also an influx of totally new brands – e.g., a company called SwitchBot unveiled a robot that can swap attachments (vacuum, mop, even an air purifier fan) via a robotic “hat” on top [164] [165], showing the creativity in this space.
In summary, late 2024 and 2025’s robot vacuums are the smartest and most feature-packed yet. DJI is entering at a time when the competition is fierce and everyone is trying something new – whether it’s arms, legs, self-cleaning mops, or AI vision. This is great for consumers, as it pushes the whole industry forward.
What to Expect – Release Dates and Price Points
For those eyeing these top-of-the-line models, here’s a quick recap of when and for how much they’re expected:
- DJI Romo: Available now in China (as of August 2025) starting at ¥4,699 ($650) for the Romo S and ¥6,799 ($950) for the Romo P [166]. DJI has confirmed plans for a global launch in late 2025 [167], though exact regions and dates are still under wraps [168]. U.S. availability might be complicated by import restrictions on DJI products [169], but if it comes, expect pricing around $700–$1,000 depending on the model (competitive with other flagships).
- Roborock Saros Z70: Revealed in Jan 2025 (CES) but not yet on sale. Roborock hinted it would be “available in 2025” [170], likely mid to late 2025 after further testing. No official price – given the tech, many predict somewhere around $2,000 (the existing Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is ~$1,600, and the arm adds cost). Roborock will likely release the lower Saros 10/10R first, then the Z70 last.
- Dreame X50 Ultra: Released early 2025 in select markets (China, EU). Its launch price was $1,699 / £1,199 [171], putting it firmly in the premium bracket. By late 2025 it has seen discounts to ~$1,199. It’s available now in Europe and Asia; a North American release might happen by end of 2025 if Dreame secures retail channels.
- Dreame Aqua10 Ultra:Expected Q4 2025 (likely a fall or holiday season launch) [172]. Pricing TBD – but Dreame’s hint was to compare it to the X50 Ultra Complete, so roughly around $1,500–$1,700 [173]. This will squarely compete with Ecovacs X9 and the Romo P. Keep an eye on Dreame’s official site or tech expos (maybe IFA or CES announcements) for the exact date.
- iRobot Roomba Combo Max 705: Launched July 2025 in UK/EU at £1,099/€1,099 [174] (which is about $1,200). iRobot says North America and Japan will get it “later this year” (2025) [175] – possibly by Q4 2025. So, by the 2025 holiday season, Roomba’s top model should be available globally. Historically, iRobot keeps prices steady (they rarely do deep discounts like Chinese brands), so don’t expect major price drops initially.
- Ecovacs Deebot X9 Pro Omni: Released mid-2025. MSRP $1,599 in the U.S., but it launched with an intro price of $1,299 [176]. Ecovacs has already run sales (e.g., around Prime Day) for as low as $1,099 [177], indicating they are aggressively promoting it. It’s available in North America, Europe, and Asia. Given that an even newer Ecovacs model might appear in 2026, the X9 Pro Omni will likely see continued discounts through late 2025, making it an attractive option if you can snag a deal.
For other brands: Xiaomi X20 Max is on sale in Asia ($1,000 equivalent), EZVIZ RS20 Max launched at a premium ($1,100+), Yeedi M14 Plus is affordable (~$500) despite its advanced mop, and so on. The key takeaway is that premium robot vacuums now commonly cost $1k+, and buyers should align expectations with that.
Conclusion: The Future of Floor Cleaning
The robot vacuum market in 2024–2025 is defined by rapid innovation and sky-high ambitions. DJI’s Romo enters as a bold newcomer, leveraging drone-level sensing and an eye-catching design (that transparent model is a conversation piece) [178]. It promises to navigate more smartly and clean more powerfully than perhaps any of its predecessors, effectively “flying on the ground” with DJI’s tech heritage. Early info paints the Romo as an ultra-premium contender meant to challenge the likes of Roborock, iRobot, and Ecovacs head-on.
Each competitor has its strengths: Roborock’s robotic arm could eliminate pre-cleaning hassle by removing clutter [179]; Dreame’s solutions tackle physical limitations (stairs, dirty mops) in clever ways [180] [181]; iRobot brings trusted reliability and finally a truly no-mess mopping experience for carpets [182]; Ecovacs delivers a well-rounded, high-performing package honed over years [183]. And there are plenty of others innovating in niches – whether it’s unbeatable mapping by EZVIZ [184] or new mop mechanisms by Yeedi [185].
When it comes to weaknesses or trade-offs, most of these flagship bots share a few: high cost, complexity, and size. The DJI Romo will be expensive (though perhaps competitively priced against others), and as a first-gen product, some might be cautious about potential glitches or support issues – will DJI’s vacuum software be as refined as its drone software? For Roborock Z70, the question is whether a household robot arm is practical or just cool tech demo – will it slow down cleanings or require frequent manual emptying of the arm’s grab (like if it picks up a sock, does it carry it around)? Dreame’s robots pack amazing capabilities but at the cost of weight and many moving parts, meaning more maintenance (filters, rollers, water to change, etc.). iRobot’s simpler approach might actually appeal to those who want a reliable workhorse without babysitting, but it might not excite tech enthusiasts who see “only” a marginal improvement over previous Roombas. Ecovacs X9 is excellent but perhaps too comprehensive – some users might not fully utilize all its features, effectively overpaying for things they don’t need (e.g., not everyone needs a robot to vacuum and mop and video-call your pet, etc.).
Overall, the DJI Romo’s emergence is a sign of the times: more companies from adjacent industries are jumping into home robotics, which means we can expect even faster development. As TechRadar mused, DJI likely sees the home robotics space as “ripe for disruption” [186] – and their entrance could push the incumbents to innovate further or lower prices, a win-win for consumers. For now, those wanting the absolute cutting-edge in home cleaning have an embarrassment of riches to choose from: whether you prioritize raw power, autonomous convenience, or special abilities, there’s a robot vacuum tailored for that need.
As 2025 unfolds, keep an eye out for real-world tests of DJI’s Romo once it lands in living rooms – will it live up to the hype of its drone pedigree? And will features like robotic arms or self-cleaning mops become must-haves or mere curiosities? One thing’s for sure: the race for the smartest, most capable robot vacuum is in full swing, and our floors have never been in better (robotic) hands. Each model discussed – DJI Romo, Roborock Saros Z70, Dreame X50/Aqua10, Roomba Combo Max, and Ecovacs X9 – brings something unique to the table, and comparing them closely (as we’ve done here) helps cut through the marketing noise.
In the end, the “best” robot vacuum of this upcoming generation will depend on your home and priorities: For a gadget enthusiast with a cluttered house, the Roborock Z70’s arm might be a dream; for a spotless home with lots of hardwood, Dreame’s continuously clean mop could be ideal; for a multi-pet household, Ecovacs’ anti-hair tangling and robust cleaning might win out; and for someone who just wants a trusted brand that works, the Roomba Combo Max is a safe bet. DJI’s Romo positions itself as a jack-of-all-trades – extremely powerful, intelligent, and visually striking – aiming to maybe master everything at once. If it succeeds, it could very well set a new benchmark that all others follow. As one excited Reddit user exclaimed upon DJI’s teaser, “After all the leaks and rumors… we finally have something official… No word on specs yet, but [DJI] might soon be making moves on your living room floor.” [187] [188] Indeed, the moves have been made, and the battle for your living room floor is heating up like never before.
Sources: DJI & competitor product announcements and reviews from T3, Vacuum Wars, TechRadar, Engadget, etc., as cited throughout. Key references include detailed breakdowns of the DJI Romo’s features [189] [190], Roborock’s CES debut of the Saros Z70 with its OmniGrip arm [191] [192], Dreame’s official reveal of the self-cleaning Aqua10 Ultra [193] [194], iRobot’s Combo Max launch info [195] [196], and Ecovacs X9 Pro Omni’s award-winning spec sheet [197] [198], among others. Each citation in the text points to the source of the specific fact or quote for further reading.
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