When it comes to robotic vacuum cleaners, Roborock has consistently been a top contender in the market, offering feature-packed models that cater to various cleaning needs. The Roborock Q5 and Roborock Q5+ are part of the brand’s budget-friendly yet efficient lineup, both offering powerful suction, smart navigation, and cleaning versatility. However, these two models differ in some significant areas that may influence your decision. In this article, we’ll compare the Roborock Q5 and Q5+ to help you make the best choice based on your cleaning requirements.
Design and Build Quality
Size and Aesthetics
Both the Roborock Q5 and Roborock Q5+ have similar designs in terms of dimensions and overall appearance, but there are some subtle differences, especially regarding the dustbin and charging station.
- Roborock Q5: The Q5 comes with a sleek, minimalistic design featuring a matte black finish. It has a 13.8-inch diameter and a 3.8-inch height, making it compact enough to navigate under most furniture and around obstacles. The Q5’s design is practical and functional, with a dustbin located on top that’s easy to remove and empty.
- Roborock Q5+: The Q5+ has the same 13.8-inch diameter and 3.8-inch height, but the key difference lies in its auto-emptying base station. The Q5+ features a base station that not only serves as the charging dock but also includes an auto-emptying function that automatically vacuums the dustbin when the robot returns to charge, which adds an extra layer of convenience and reduces maintenance.
| Feature | Roborock Q5 | Roborock Q5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 13.8 inches | 13.8 inches |
| Height | 3.8 inches | 3.8 inches |
| Color | Matte Black | Matte Black |
| Dustbin Type | Removable | Auto-Emptying Base |
Both models have the same compact size, but the Q5+ stands out with its auto-emptying base, making it more hands-off for users.
Cleaning Performance
Suction Power and Cleaning Efficiency
Both the Q5 and Q5+ feature the same level of cleaning performance, with 2500Pa suction power, which is ideal for tackling dust, dirt, and debris on various surfaces, including hard floors and low-to-medium-pile carpets.
- Roborock Q5: The Q5 offers 2500Pa suction and uses LiDAR navigation for efficient cleaning patterns. It can vacuum and mop simultaneously, using a basic wet mop cloth to mop the floor as it vacuums, though the mopping function is more rudimentary compared to high-end models.
- Roborock Q5+: The Q5+ delivers the same 2500Pa suction power and cleaning performance as the Q5. It uses the same LiDAR navigation and multi-stage filtration system for effective cleaning. The key difference is that the auto-emptying feature on the base station means less frequent intervention for emptying the dustbin, which is a major convenience, especially for larger homes.
| Feature | Roborock Q5 | Roborock Q5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Suction Power | 2500Pa | 2500Pa |
| Mopping Technology | Wet Mop Cloth | Wet Mop Cloth |
| Filtration System | Multi-stage | Multi-stage |
Cleaning performance is identical between the two models, with the Q5+ offering an additional layer of convenience thanks to the auto-emptying base.
Smart Features and Navigation
App Control, Mapping, and Connectivity
Both models share many of the same smart features, but there are a few differences when it comes to the user experience.
- Roborock Q5: The Q5 uses LiDAR navigation, allowing it to create an accurate map of your home. It supports app control via the Roborock app, where users can schedule cleaning, customize cleaning modes, and set no-go zones. The Q5 also supports voice control with Google Assistant and Alexa, allowing hands-free operation.
- Roborock Q5+: The Q5+ offers the same LiDAR navigation, Roborock app control, and voice assistant compatibility as the Q5. However, the added benefit is the auto-emptying function, which automatically empties the dustbin into the base station after each cleaning cycle. This reduces the frequency of manual emptying and is particularly useful for larger homes or homes with pets.
| Feature | Roborock Q5 | Roborock Q5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation | LiDAR | LiDAR |
| Smart Mapping | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Google Assistant, Alexa | Google Assistant, Alexa |
| Auto-Emptying | No | Yes (Auto-Empty Base) |
While both models share smart navigation and control, the Roborock Q5+ stands out for its auto-emptying base, making it more hands-off and convenient for larger spaces.
Battery Life and Charging
Run Time and Efficiency
The Roborock Q5 and Q5+ both have impressive battery life, which is ideal for homes of various sizes.
- Roborock Q5: The Q5 offers up to 180 minutes of cleaning time on a full charge, depending on the selected cleaning mode. It has an efficient recharge and resume feature, meaning if it runs out of battery before completing a cleaning cycle, it will return to its charging station, recharge, and continue cleaning from where it left off.
- Roborock Q5+: The Q5+ also offers up to 180 minutes of cleaning time, with the same recharge and resume feature. The primary difference is that the auto-emptying base station in the Q5+ means you won’t need to manually empty the dustbin as often, making it more convenient for extended cleaning sessions.
| Feature | Roborock Q5 | Roborock Q5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | Up to 180 minutes | Up to 180 minutes |
| Charging and Resume | Auto Recharges and Resumes | Auto Recharges and Resumes |
Battery life and charging functionality are the same between the two, with the Q5+ offering the additional auto-emptying feature.
Price and Value
| Feature | Roborock Q5 | Roborock Q5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Mid-Range | Mid-Range to Premium |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Excellent with Extra Features |
The Roborock Q5 is a more affordable option, while the Q5+ offers more convenience with its auto-emptying base station. The Q5+ justifies its slightly higher price with the added hands-off functionality, making it ideal for users who prefer low-maintenance cleaning.
Who Should Choose Which?
| User Type | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Budget-Conscious | Roborock Q5 |
| Homes with Pets | Roborock Q5+ |
| Low-Maintenance | Roborock Q5+ |
| Larger Homes | Roborock Q5+ |
| Small to Medium Homes | Roborock Q5 |
Final Verdict
Both the Roborock Q5 and Roborock Q5+ are excellent robotic vacuums, offering impressive cleaning power, smart navigation, and efficient battery life. The main difference between the two lies in the auto-emptying function of the Q5+, which provides added convenience, especially for larger homes or those with pets.
- Choose the Roborock Q5 if you’re looking for a more affordable option with great cleaning performance, reliable navigation, and a good balance of vacuuming and mopping features.
- Choose the Roborock Q5+ if you want the added convenience of the auto-emptying base, which reduces the need for frequent dustbin emptying, making it the better choice for larger homes or households with pets.
In conclusion, the Q5+ offers an extra layer of convenience with its auto-emptying feature, while the Q5 provides excellent value for its price with solid cleaning performance.