SwitchBot K10+ Review: The smallest vacuum robot
The SwitchBot K10+ stands out in the crowded field of robot vacuums due to its compact and innovative design. This device is particularly appealing for small households, individual rooms, or spaces with narrow areas where a traditional vacuum might struggle to reach.
While typical vacuum robots range from 33 to 46 centimeters, the K10+ boasts a mere 24.8 centimeters. This slim profile allows it to access and clean areas that larger vacuum robots simply cannot reach. Despite its smaller size, the K10+ doesn’t compromise on suction power, delivering an impressive 2500 Pa—comparable to many full-size robot vacuums on the market.
The K10+ vacuum robot offers practical features such as the ability to auto-empty its dust bin into a bag stored in the docking station, scheduled cleaning capabilities, and obstacle navigation. While it may not be a perfect robot vacuum, the SwitchBot K10+ presents excellent value at its price point of $499.99.
SwitchBot K10+: Video Review
| Specs | SwitchBot K10+ |
| Suction Power | 2,500Pa |
| Sensors | LiDAR |
| Dustbin Capacity | 150ml |
| Empty Bin Capacity | 4L |
| Operating Noise | 48dB |
| Battery Capacity | 3,200mAh |
| Run Time | 100min (Standard Mode) |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Yes |
| Zone Cleaning | Yes |
| Room Cleaning | Yes |
| Digital Mapping | Yes |
| Control Method | App, Remote, Voice |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphones, Amazon Echo, Google Home |
| Robot Dimensions | 9.8 x 9.8 x 3.6 inches / 248 x 248 x 92 mm |
| Dock Dimensions | 10.28 x 8.3 x 12.72 inches / 261 × 210 × 323 mm |
| Color | White |
Unboxing
The SwitchBot K10+ arrives in a compact box, reflecting its status as one of the world’s smallest vacuum robots.
The compact box includes space for the vacuum robot, the compact suction station, and various accessories. Among these accessories are 30 disposable wipes, a replacement filter, and a replacement dust bag, adding value to the overall package.
Setting up
Setting up the SwitchBot K10+ is a straightforward process, ensuring that users can swiftly integrate this compact vacuum robot into their homes. After unboxing, the quick-start guide simplifies the setup, making it a hassle-free experience.
To begin, users need to plug in the docking station, attach an edge-sweeping brush, and remove the magnetic faceplate. Turning the ON/OFF switch to the ON position (“I”) activates the robot, and aligning the K10+ with the metal charging contacts on the docking station initiates the charging process.
The remaining setup steps are conveniently handled through the SwitchBot app, compatible with both Android and iOS devices. The app streamlines the connection between the K10+ and your smartphone, offering a user-friendly interface.
To ensure seamless communication between the app and the K10+, your phone must have Bluetooth 4.2 or later. If you don’t already have a SwitchBot account, you’ll need to create one – a quick and free process that enhances your overall user experience.
Additionally, the K10+ requires connection to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi band in your home. Having your Wi-Fi password at hand is essential for this step. The SwitchBot app guides you through the process, making it accessible for users of varying technical expertise. The entire setup, from unboxing to connecting the K10+ to the app, typically takes around 10 minutes.
SwitchBot K10+: Design
The SwitchBot K10+ robot vacuum cleaner has a sleek, modern white design and measures just 24.8 x 9.2 centimeters. Upon visual inspection, the SwitchBot K10+ doesn’t deviate much from the standard appearance of household vacuum robots. The robot features a laser distance sensor for navigation at the top, a collision-triggered shock absorber at the front, and infrared proximity sensors on the front and right side. Notably, it lacks a camera for object recognition, which might be seen as a limitation in terms of advanced features.
Beneath the robot, crash sensors, a side brush, and a rubber and bristle combination main roller contribute to its cleaning capabilities. The unique design choice of placing the main roller behind the drive wheels sets it apart from the competition. This design, coupled with the rubber and bristle composition, reduces the likelihood of hair tangling—a common issue in many vacuum robots.
One notable feature is the dedicated wiping mode, facilitated by the wiping module located under the station cover. Equipped with disposable wipes, this module attaches to the rear area of the vacuum robot above the cleaning roller. However, it’s essential to highlight that the K10+ cannot vacuum and mop simultaneously; it can only perform one function at a time. Additionally, there are no reusable cloths or a water tank, signaling that the wiping function might not be as robust as some users may expect.
Despite these considerations, the SwitchBot K10+ excels in build quality. While predominantly constructed from plastic, all components feel solid and robust, emphasizing durability.
APP
The device initiates room mapping as soon as it’s activated. Impressively, it efficiently maps rooms within a matter of minutes, even in a spacious 45-square-meter area. Once the map is created, users can leverage the software to set up virtual walls, exclusion zones (distinct for vacuuming and wiping), and more.
The SwitchBot K10+ introduces practical functions to elevate the cleaning process. The carpet detection mode is particularly useful, automatically increasing suction power when the device detects a carpeted surface. Another advantageous feature is the collision-free mode, which minimizes collisions with furniture. However, it’s worth noting that, due to the absence of object recognition, complete collision avoidance is not achievable.
The SwitchBot app empowers users to schedule automatic cleaning processes, offering the flexibility to tailor cleaning routines to individual preferences. Additionally, the app serves as a remote control, allowing users to manually drive the K10+ to specific areas for targeted cleaning.
Voice control is seamlessly integrated into the SwitchBot K10+ experience, with support for popular voice assistants such as Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Siri.
In instances where the compact dimensions of the K10+ might make it challenging to locate, the app provides a practical solution. Users can employ an acoustic signal via the app to locate the device, ensuring that even in larger spaces, the K10+ is easily retrievable.
Cleaning and Navigation
The SwitchBot K10+ offers a range of customizable cleaning options through its dedicated mobile app, allowing users to tailor the device’s performance to their specific needs. The app provides access to four different suction levels, accommodating various cleaning requirements. Moreover, users can effortlessly switch between suction and mopping modes, enhancing the versatility of the device.
An interesting feature is the ability to set the frequency of vacuuming in the app, a practical solution for managing the 150-milliliter dust container capacity. This proves beneficial in scenarios where there is an abundance of dirt or hair, allowing users to optimize the cleaning schedule according to their preferences.
In addition to overall cleaning, the SwitchBot K10+ enables targeted cleaning of individual rooms and specific areas. This flexibility is particularly useful for addressing specific cleaning needs, such as vacuuming crumbs around the sofa. With the capability to create multiple maps, the SwitchBot vacuum robot seamlessly transitions between floors, offering a comprehensive cleaning solution for multi-story homes.
While the navigation of the K10+ is commendable, utilizing a laser for mapping, it doesn’t reach the level of devices equipped with lasers and cameras. Nevertheless, the K10+ reliably maps rooms, enabling efficient navigation even in low-light conditions. However, the absence of object recognition does pose challenges. Light slippers or other objects may be moved, and the device might struggle in areas with cables and multiple sockets. Despite these limitations, the K10+ demonstrates resilience and often manages to free itself.
The compact size of the K10+ offers both advantages and drawbacks. While it effortlessly maneuvers through the middle of chair legs, it may struggle in tight spaces at the sides due to its height. This limitation becomes apparent when attempting to clean under low furniture, like a dining table with low struts. Consequently, there may be areas left unsucked in larger rooms.
The compact design also influences the cleaning time. Covering larger areas or rooms takes longer because the device must traverse more paths compared to larger models. As a result, the SwitchBot K10+ is best suited for small households where its nimble size and efficient cleaning capabilities can be fully appreciated.
Performance
The suction power is at a low level at 2,500 Pa. Current top models like the Dreame L20 Ultra have a power of 7000 Pa, mid-range devices like the Proscenic Floobot X1 at least around 3000 Pa.
What initially sounds like little is actually not that bad in everyday life. The K10+ reliably removes dust, crumbs, etc., but its performance is not comparable to that of larger models on carpets. However, in households where there is little dirt, the performance is completely sufficient.
The battery life is up to 120 minutes, but decreases significantly at the highest level. However, areas of around 50 square meters are not a problem and can also be achieved at a higher suction level. According to the manufacturer, the K10+ can cover up to 120 square meters per pass.
What is very pleasant is the low noise level of the robot vacuum cleaner. It works fairly quietly and doesn’t get unpleasantly loud even at the highest suction level. We don’t need to say much about the wiping performance of the K10+.
It is enough to wipe down previously vacuumed surfaces once. However, it is by no means comparable to larger models that have a proper wiping module or system. The wiping system on the K10+ should therefore not play a role when making a purchase decision.
SwitchBot K10+: Conclusion
The SwitchBot K10+ emerges as an excellent choice for those seeking a mini robot vacuum tailored for the needs of a small home. Its compact design ensures it won’t take up much space while still delivering thorough and effective cleaning. Capable of handling dirt, dust, pet fur, and even larger food crumbs, the K10+ proves itself as a reliable daily cleaning companion.
Priced at $499, the SwitchBot K10+ offers a compelling value proposition. It provides many of the same benefits as full-size vacuums that often come with a higher price tag.
However, it’s important to note that the K10+ may not be the ideal choice for users specifically seeking a robot vacuum with robust vacuuming and mopping features. While it can perform light surface-mopping, it lacks the advanced scrubbing capabilities found in other models with vibrating or spinning mop pads. Therefore, if a combination of strong vacuuming and mopping functionalities is a priority, the K10+ might not fully meet those specific requirements.
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