The SwitchBot K10+ Pro is billed as the world’s smallest robot vacuum with a dust collection base, and it builds on the success of its predecessor, the K10+. With a 20% increase in suction power and a revamped main brush, this model promises more efficiency in a compact form. However, as NextPit’s review reveals, while the K10+ Pro shines in certain areas, there are still some notable shortcomings.
Overview of the SwitchBot K10+ Pro
Released about a year after the original K10+, the SwitchBot K10+ Pro is priced at $599.99 and is available for purchase through Amazon and SwitchBot’s online store.
Note: This article was produced in collaboration with SwitchBot, though the editorial review is independent.
Design and Build Quality
At 9.2 cm tall and with a 24.8 cm diameter, the K10+ Pro retains its title as one of the smallest robot vacuums on the market. Despite its compact size, it comes equipped with a large 4L dust bag in its dust collection station, which is a welcome upgrade. The robot vacuum itself has a 200 ml dust container.
One area for improvement is the mopping feature. Instead of a water tank, the device uses a disposable wet wipe, much like its predecessor, which remains less than effective for mopping duties. While 30 wipes are included with each unit, this lack of an efficient mopping system is a notable drawback.
App Features and Smart Capabilities
The SwitchBot app integrates seamlessly with all the brand’s smart devices, and setup for the K10+ Pro is straightforward. The app enables users to view the live location of the vacuum, control suction levels, and adjust mapping features. For better cleaning precision, rooms can be merged or separated within the app.
A key highlight is the K10+ Pro’s compatibility with Matter, ensuring smooth integration with other smart home devices. It also supports Alexa and Google Home, making voice control possible. The app offers customization options for the dust collection station’s auto-emptying function, allowing users to adjust settings for extraction duration and frequency.
Performance: Suction, Mopping, and Navigation
The K10+ Pro performs well on smooth surfaces, delivering satisfactory suction power. However, its mopping function falls short, as it simply drags a wet wipe across the floor, which smears dirt instead of properly cleaning. The robot cannot vacuum and mop simultaneously, meaning users must choose between the two functions before each cleaning session.
Its suction power on hard floors is decent, but it struggles on carpets, particularly when picking up fine particles like sand. The robot excels at cleaning corners and narrow spaces, thanks to its compact design. Impressively, the vacuum does not trap pet hair in its main brush, a feature that sets it apart from some other models.
However, the K10+ Pro struggles with obstacle detection. It often encounters objects too late, which can interfere with cleaning efficiency. This is a significant flaw given the price point of $599.
Battery Life and Noise Levels
The K10+ Pro boasts impressive battery life. After running at maximum suction for 30 minutes, it retained 68% of its battery. Its operating noise is also notably low, making it one of the quieter models NextPit has reviewed.
Final Verdict
The SwitchBot K10+ Pro is a solid choice for those in need of a compact, affordable robot vacuum for small apartments or hard floors. It excels in tight spaces and corners but still falls short in areas like mopping and obstacle detection. The mopping function, in particular, remains a major weakness, and the lack of significant upgrades from the K10+ is disappointing.
For those looking for a more powerful solution that handles both vacuuming and mopping effectively, other models like the Tapo RV30 Max Plus might be more suitable. Nonetheless, if you’re after a tiny robot vacuum that can clean hard floors with minimal fuss, the K10+ Pro is a reasonable option.
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