For a more affordable alternative, the $449 Shark IQ Robot features a smaller base that holds around two weeks worth of debris, but is otherwise the same as the XL model.

Clear cords and remove small objects like toys socks and drapes from floors. Open interior doors and rooms you want your robot to clean. If there are areas you'd like the robot to avoid.

30 days Product information

about 20 to 45 minutes The first time you run the Shark AI, it explores your home and creates a map of the floor plan. The Explore Run takes about 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the size of your home. Some robots take several cleaning runs to generate a map, so it's nice that the Shark AI can do it so quickly.

The iRobot Roomba j7+ and the Shark IQ RV1001AE XL both have strong suction power, handle pet hair well and are smart enough to create a map of your home, but the ($600) iRobot Roomba j7+ offered an extra level of smarts with its mapping, virtual boundaries and ability to detect and avoid obstacles.

Best value self-emptying robot vacuum: Shark IQ XL If you like the idea of a self-emptying robot vacuum but not the high price tag of the iRobot Roomba j7+, then we recommend the Shark IQ XL. It has smart features such as linear navigation, in-app mapping, scheduling and voice control.

Shark's IQ Navigation™ is now smarter with AI Laser Vision, avoiding objects and responding to no-go zones as it cleans row by row, room to room - and you can even clean at night. Customize your clean via the SharkClean™ app or use voice commands with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

The Shark AI Robot is better than the iRobot Roomba 675. The Shark has a more advanced navigation system that allows for room mapping and smart-pathing. It also incurs lower costs of ownership than the iRobot, has a larger dustbin, lasts longer on a charge, and does a better job of maneuvering itself.

The suction mode you use will affect the battery life – for example, ECO mode allows the battery to last for a longer time, while BOOST mode will use more power to increase the suction and therefore will run out faster.

Sometimes the battery may have gotten dirty or slipped away from its contacts inside the Shark robot vacuum. Cleaning and repositioning it may fix your problem. But if it's an old battery or there are clear signs of damage, you should order a replacement battery that matches your model.

NOTE: the layout of the map may appear slightly different from the actual layout of your home, as the map will not include any furniture that the robot cannot fit under. Your Shark IQ Robot will also continuously improve its map over time.

The robot is designed to be docked and on always. This is so you can set programs for it to run when you are away or in the middle of the night. However, it is your choice and if you feel most comfortable turning it off at night out of the dock, then do so.