Comparison HOBOT 2S vs ECOVACS WinBot 920

The method of control provided in the design of the machine.

Note that for models with the simplest manual control (when the user holds the handle and thus directs the machine), as well as for robots controlled exclusively from their built-in panel, this parameter is not indicated, it is given only for units with more advanced options. For traditional cleaning machines, this may be steering wheel; in turn, robots (see "Type") can be controlled via the remote control and/or smartphone. Here is a more detailed description of these options:

— Steering wheel. It is used in heavy performant self-propelled equipment (see below), which would be difficult to direct manually. Many of these models even have a seat for the operator and are kind of mini-tractors. However, there are also units for which the operator must walk on foot during work — they are somewhat less convenient to use but more compact, light and inexpensive.

— Remote control. Controlled by a separate remote control supplied with the kit. More often, communication is carried out via an infrared channel — similar to remote controls for TVs, air conditioners, etc. However, other options are also possible. In general, the functionality of such control is quite limited compared to another option used in robots — control from a smartphone (see below): from the remote control, usua...lly, only a selection of preset work programmes, simple settings, and in some models — also direct movement control. On the other hand, such control is relatively inexpensive, and in most cases, it is more than enough.

— Via smartphone. Controlling the robot via a smartphone or other similar gadget (for example, a tablet) with a special application installed on it; communication is usually carried out via Bluetooth. This method turns out to be much more convenient and visual than using the remote control: in particular, the application can implement many additional functions that are not available with a traditional remote control (cartography with manual route laying on a room map, scheduled cleaning, etc.). On the other hand, maintaining such control affects the overall cost of the unit; and in the absence of a suitable control gadget, the robot becomes completely useless. Therefore, this option is rare — much more often the ability to work with a smartphone is provided simultaneously with the remote control (for more details, see below).

— Remote control/via smartphone. Devices that support both of the control methods described above. This option is as versatile as possible: when working with basic functions, you can get by with the remote control, and for advanced settings, use an external gadget. At the same time, the remote control is initially included in the delivery, thanks to which the unit can be used without a smartphone. For example, if there is no suitable smartphone, or if you do not want to bother with installing and configuring the application.

The volume of the cleaning solution tank installed in the cleaning machine.

This parameter is directly related to the device type (see above) and some features of its functionality. So, in powerful self-propelled scrubbers (see "Type") tanks with a volume of tens of litres can be provided, while in floor cleaning robots the capacity does not exceed 1 litre (and in some models, it is only 120 mL). So, according to this spec, only units of the same type with similar functionality can be compared with this parameter. With such a comparison, it is worth proceeding from the fact that a more capacious tank, on the one hand, allows you to work longer without refuelling; on the other hand, it affects the dimensions and weight.

The type of battery used in the machine with the appropriate power supply (see above). The type is indicated by the technology by which the battery is made.

— Ni-Cd. One of the oldest modern technologies. Such elements are capable of operating at high discharge currents, which is especially important for heavy and powerful equipment with high power consumption. In addition, they charge quickly enough, endure work in the cold and temperature fluctuations without any problems, and are relatively inexpensive. One of the main disadvantages of nickel-cadmium batteries is the so-called memory effect — a decrease in capacity if charging was carried out until it was completely discharged. However, this disadvantage can be compensated by the use of high-quality chargers and compliance with the operating rules. But the unequivocal disadvantage of this variety is the environmental insecurity in production and disposal; it limits the use of Ni-Cd batteries in modern technology.

— Ni-Mh. A technology created in an attempt to improve the performance of the nickel-cadmium batteries described above. The attempt turned out to be quite successful: while retaining the main advantages of their predecessors, nickel-metal-hydride cells are at the same time less susceptible to the memory effect and more environmentally friendly. Their disadvantages include a slightly increased cost and specific rules for long-term storage.

— Li-Ion. Lithium-ion batteries are rema...rkable primarily for their high charge density — in other words, they have a high capacity with small dimensions and weight. It is especially important for compact devices such as robots or handheld window cleaners (see "Type"). In addition, such batteries are practically not subject to the memory effect. Among the disadvantages of this technology, in addition to the cost, it is worth mentioning the sensitivity to high and low temperatures, as well as the likelihood of “accidents” during abnormal modes: failure of the built-in controller with overcharging or overdischarging, overheating or short circuit can lead to swelling, electrolyte leakage and even fire.

— Li-Po. A type of lithium-ion battery (see above), in which a polymer (gel) electrolyte is used instead of a liquid electrolyte. This design provides additional advantages over the original Li-Ion technology: lithium-polymer batteries have an even higher charge density, and the likelihood of "accidents" with explosions and fires in them is noticeably reduced. The main disadvantages of such power supplies are the rather high cost and the exactingness of maintaining the optimal temperature regime.

— Gel. In this case, we are usually talking about gel lead-acid batteries, similar to those used in cars. Such batteries are distinguished by their considerable weight. Therefore they are used exclusively in heavy cleaning equipment, where several kilograms of the battery weight is invisible against the weight of the machine itself. Of the practical advantages of such batteries, it is worth noting good capacity, durability, the ability to tolerate deep discharge without problems, as well as resistance to low temperatures and temperature extremes.

The capacity of the battery installed in the cleaning machine with the appropriate power supply.

Theoretically, a higher capacity allows you to work longer on a single charge, but everything is not so simple. Firstly, battery life is also affected by the power consumption of the machine, and it is determined mainly by the motor power (see above). Secondly, the actual amount of energy stored in the battery depends not only on the capacity in amp-hours but also on the operating voltage in volts. Therefore, only batteries with the same voltage can be compared with each other in terms of capacity in Ah (or convert ampere-hours to watt-hours using a special formula and compare the results). And it is best to evaluate the battery life of the unit according to the directly claimed autonomy time (see below).

The operating time of a battery-powered cleaning machine on a single charge of a standard battery.

By itself, this parameter is quite approximate: it is most often indicated for standard operation and simple conditions. However, the actual battery life usually does not differ much from the indicated one. So, according to the claimed autonomy time, it is quite possible to evaluate the capabilities of different models and compare them with each other.

The noise level generated by the cleaning machine during operation.

A low noise level is important for the comfort of the operator and the people around. The latter is especially true in some specific places like hospitals or kindergartens. On the other hand, the higher the power, the louder, usually, the unit operates and the more difficult it is to reduce this noise to a certain level, even though in many cases the high volume of the work is not a particular problem. So it’s worth looking specifically for a “quiet” cleaning machine only if a low noise level is more critical for you than a high cost and/or reduced power.

When evaluating specific loudness values, note that the decibel used to indicate the noise level is a non-linear value. Therefore, it is easiest to evaluate specific values using comparative tables. Here is a simplified table for the range that most modern cleaning machines fit into:

55 dB — background sound in the office without special noise sources;
60 dB — loud conversation;
65 dB — city street with average traffic intensity;
70 dB — a conversation of several people in raised tones.
75 dB — high-power vacuum cleaner.
80 dB — traffic noise on a busy street.

The length of the mains cord provided in the machine with the appropriate power supply (see "Power supply").

A long cord allows you to move further away from the outlet but can get tangled under your feet and create inconvenience. Therefore, manufacturers choose the length of the power cord by the specs of a particular model: for example, a window robot (see "Type") is quite enough 4 – 5 m, and in heavy scrubbing units, the length of the wire can exceed 20 m.

The total weight of the cleaning machine. Usually, weight is indicated with empty tanks for detergent, waste, fuel, etc. At the same time, additional equipment, such as side brushes, may or may not be taken into account. Such equipment has a very small weight compared to the machines themselves. And, when installed/removed, does not seriously affect the mass of the entire machine.