I’ve spent weeks testing the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra and S7 MaxV Ultra, two powerhouse robot vacuums that promise to make cleaning effortless. My goal? To help you decide which one deserves a spot in your home by comparing their features, performance, and value. From suction power to smart navigation, I’ll break down what sets these models apart in a way that’s clear and engaging. Whether you’re a pet owner, a busy parent, or just hate vacuuming, this article will guide you to the right choice.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra | Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra |
| Suction Power | 10,000 Pa | 5,100 Pa |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Camera + Reactive AI 2.0 | RGB Camera + ReactiveAI 1.0 |
| Mopping System | VibraRise 3.0, Dual Lifting Pads | VibraRise 1.0, Single Vibrating Pad |
| Docking Station | Auto-Dry, Refill, Detergent Dispense | Auto-Dry, Wash, Empty |
| Voice Assistant | Built-in Rocky Voice Assistant | None |
| Dustbin Capacity | 180ml | 350ml |
| Water Tank Capacity | 300ml | 200ml |
| Battery Life | 180 minutes | 180 minutes |
| Navigation | PreciSense LiDAR | LiDAR Mapping |
| Pet Features | Camera Monitoring, Pet Waste Detection | Basic Pet Camera |
| Price (Approx.) | $1,799 | $799-$1,400 |
My Journey With Roborock’s Flagships
Also Read: My Thought on Litter-Robot 3
I’ve always been skeptical about robot vacuums. Could a machine really clean as well as I do with a broom and mop? But after testing the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra and S7 MaxV Ultra, I’m a convert. These aren’t just gadgets—they’re like having a tiny, tireless housekeeper. Both models are top-tier, but they cater to slightly different needs. Let’s explore what makes each one tick, starting with their shared strengths and then unpacking the differences that could sway your decision.
Shared Strengths: Why Both Are Awesome
Both the S8 MaxV Ultra and S7 MaxV Ultra are loaded with features that make cleaning a breeze. They’re combo vacuum-mop robots, meaning they tackle dust, pet hair, and sticky spills in one go. Their docking stations are game-changers, handling dustbin emptying, mop washing, and water refilling, so I barely had to lift a finger. LiDAR navigation ensures they map your home with precision, dodging furniture and navigating tight corners like pros. Battery life on both clocks in at 180 minutes, plenty for my 1,200-square-foot apartment.
Roborock S8 Maxv Ultra: The Future Of Cleaning
The S8 MaxV Ultra feels like it’s from 2030. Its 10,000 Pa suction power is a beast, pulling up everything from fine dust to cereal crumbs. I spilled coffee grounds on my kitchen floor, and the S8 devoured them in one pass. The VibraRise 3.0 mopping system, with dual lifting pads, scrubs hard floors better than I ever could. It even lifts the pads when it detects carpets, keeping my rugs dry. The FlexiArm side brush extends to hug walls, leaving no dust bunnies behind.
The camera-based Reactive AI 2.0 is a standout. It spots and avoids small objects like socks or pet toys, and it’s eerily good at dodging pet waste—a lifesaver for my cat-owning friends. The built-in Rocky Voice Assistant lets me bark commands like “Clean the kitchen!” without touching my phone. Pet owners will love the camera’s monitoring feature, which lets you check on your furry pals via the app. The dock’s hot water mop washing (60°C) and auto-detergent dispenser take maintenance to another level, dissolving greasy stains effortlessly.
Pros Of The S8 Maxv Ultra
- Insane 10,000 Pa suction power for deep cleaning.
- Advanced Reactive AI 2.0 with camera for superior obstacle avoidance.
- VibraRise 3.0 mopping with dual pads for stubborn stains.
- FlexiArm side brush for edge-to-edge cleaning.
- Pet-friendly features like waste detection and camera monitoring.
- Hot water mop washing and auto-detergent dispensing.
- Built-in voice assistant for hands-free control.
- Smart Plan customizes cleaning based on your home.
Cons Of The S8 Maxv Ultra
- Pricey at $1,799—definitely a splurge.
- Mopping struggles with dried-on mud or tough stains.
- Obstacle avoidance isn’t perfect; it occasionally snags small items like pencils.
- Large dock takes up significant floor space.
- Smaller dustbin (180ml) compared to S7 MaxV Ultra.
Roborock S7 Maxv Ultra: Still A Heavy Hitter
The S7 MaxV Ultra, while older, holds its own. Its 5,100 Pa suction is less intense but still handles pet hair and debris with ease. I tested it on my low-pile rug, and it left it spotless. The VibraRise 1.0 mopping system uses a single vibrating pad that lifts on carpets, though it’s not as aggressive as the S8’s dual pads. The RGB camera and ReactiveAI 1.0 offer solid obstacle avoidance, though it’s less precise than the S8’s system. I loved using the camera as a roving security cam to peek at my apartment while out.
The dock is nearly as autonomous as the S8’s, emptying the dustbin, washing the mop, and refilling water. However, it lacks hot water washing and detergent dispensing, so I had to clean the mop manually for greasy messes. The removable water tank is a nice touch, making it easier to check for clogs. At $799-$1,400 (depending on sales), it’s a more budget-friendly option for premium features.
Pros Of The S7 Maxv Ultra
- Strong 5,100 Pa suction for most homes.
- Reliable LiDAR navigation and obstacle avoidance.
- VibraRise 1.0 mopping effective for daily maintenance.
- Removable water tank for easy maintenance.
- Camera doubles as a security monitor.
- More affordable than the S8 MaxV Ultra.
- Larger dustbin (350ml) holds more debris.
Cons Of The S7 Maxv Ultra
- Weaker suction compared to S8 MaxV Ultra.
- Single mop pad less effective on tough stains.
- No hot water mop washing or detergent dispenser.
- Obstacle avoidance less advanced than S8’s Reactive AI 2.0.
- No built-in voice assistant.
Head-To-Head: Key Differences That Matter
Also Read: My Thought on Litter-Robot 3
Suction Power and Cleaning Performance
The S8 MaxV Ultra’s 10,000 Pa suction is nearly double the S7’s 5,100 Pa. In my tests, the S8 tackled embedded sand in high-pile carpets better, while the S7 was adequate but needed multiple passes. For homes with thick rugs or heavy pet shedding, the S8’s power is a clear win. However, the S7’s suction is plenty for hardwood, tile, or low-pile carpets, making it a practical choice for less demanding floors.
Mopping Capabilities
The S8’s VibraRise 3.0 with dual lifting pads outshines the S7’s single-pad VibraRise 1.0. I spilled dried juice on my tile floor, and the S8 scrubbed it clean in two passes, while the S7 left faint streaks. The S8’s hot water mop washing and detergent dispenser also keep the mop fresher, reducing odors. If mopping is a priority, the S8 is worth the extra cost. The S7, however, is fine for light mopping and daily upkeep.
Obstacle Avoidance and Navigation
The S8’s Reactive AI 2.0 with a front camera is noticeably smarter. It avoided my cat’s toy mouse 90% of the time, while the S7 bumped into it occasionally. The S8’s pet waste detection is a godsend for pet owners, though I didn’t test it (thankfully, my cat’s litter box is tidy). The S7’s RGB camera and ReactiveAI 1.0 are still impressive, especially for the price, but they’re a step behind. Both use LiDAR for flawless mapping, so no complaints there.
Docking Station Features
The S8’s RockDock Ultra is the gold standard, with hot water mop washing, auto-detergent dispensing, and a sleek design. The S7’s dock is nearly as hands-off but uses room-temperature water and lacks detergent dispensing, requiring more manual cleaning. Both empty dustbins and refill water tanks, but the S8’s dock feels more polished and low-maintenance.
Smart Features and App
The Roborock app is identical for both, letting you schedule cleanings, set no-go zones, and adjust suction or mopping intensity. The S8’s Smart Plan feature auto-customizes cleaning based on your home’s layout, which I found handy for targeting high-traffic areas. The S8’s Rocky Voice Assistant is a fun perk, though I mostly used Alexa. The S7’s camera-based security monitoring is unique, letting you remotely steer the robot to check on things—a feature the S8 oddly lacks.
Price and Value
The S8 MaxV Ultra’s $1,799 price tag is steep, while the S7 MaxV Ultra ranges from $799 to $1,400. If budget is a concern, the S7 delivers 80% of the S8’s performance for potentially half the cost. But if you want cutting-edge tech and minimal maintenance, the S8 justifies its premium for tech enthusiasts or pet-heavy homes.
Real-World Testing: My Experience
I put both robots through the wringer in my apartment, which has a mix of hardwood, tile, and area rugs, plus a shedding cat. The S8 MaxV Ultra was a beast on my high-pile rug, pulling up fur I didn’t even know was there. Its mopping left my kitchen tiles sparkling, though it struggled with a stubborn coffee stain. The obstacle avoidance was impressive, navigating around my coffee table legs and a stray sock with ease. The dock’s hot water washing kept the mop odor-free, a huge plus.
The S7 MaxV Ultra was no slouch either. It handled my hardwood floors beautifully, and the camera let me check on my cat while at work. Mopping was decent for daily messes but less effective on sticky spills. The dock required more upkeep, as I had to rinse the mop manually after heavy use. Price-wise, the S7 felt like a better deal for my needs, but the S8’s power and polish were tempting.
Who Should Buy the S8 MaxV Ultra?
The S8 MaxV Ultra is for those who want the best of the best. If you have pets, thick carpets, or a large home with mixed flooring, its suction, mopping, and obstacle avoidance are unmatched. It’s also ideal for tech lovers who crave voice control and minimal maintenance. The price is a hurdle, but if you can swing it, it’s a worthwhile investment for hands-off cleaning.
Who Should Buy the S7 MaxV Ultra?
The S7 MaxV Ultra is perfect for budget-conscious buyers who still want premium features. It’s great for homes with hardwood or low-pile carpets, light mopping needs, or those who don’t mind occasional dock maintenance. The security camera feature is a bonus for remote monitoring. If you find it on sale, it’s a steal.
Making Your Decision
Choosing between the S8 MaxV Ultra and S7 MaxV Ultra boils down to your priorities. Need raw power, advanced mopping, and pet-friendly tech? The S8 is your pick. Want solid performance at a lower price? The S7 delivers. Both will save you time and keep your floors pristine, but the S8 feels like a luxury upgrade, while the S7 is a practical workhorse. Think about your budget, flooring, and cleaning needs, and you’ll know which one’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faq)
The S8 Ultra (likely referring to S8 MaxV Ultra) has 10,000 Pa suction, dual-pad VibraRise 3.0 mopping, and a camera with Reactive AI 2.0, compared to the S7 Ultra’s (S7 MaxV Ultra) 5,100 Pa, single-pad VibraRise 1.0, and RGB camera with ReactiveAI 1.0. The S8 also includes hot water mop washing and a voice assistant.
Not inherently better, but the S7 MaxV Ultra is more affordable and suits homes with lighter cleaning needs. The S8 MaxV Ultra outperforms in suction, mopping, and obstacle avoidance, making it better for pet owners or heavy-duty cleaning.
The S8 MaxV Ultra has a camera for obstacle avoidance, pet monitoring, and stain detection, plus a voice assistant and dust sensor. The S8 Max Ultra uses structured light for obstacle avoidance and lacks these extras but shares the same suction and mopping system.
Yes, if you have pets, thick carpets, or want minimal maintenance with top-tier performance. At $1,799, it’s pricey, so consider the S7 MaxV Ultra if budget is a concern.
Conclusion
Also Read: My Thought on Litter-Robot 3
After testing the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra and S7 MaxV Ultra, I’m blown away by how far robot vacuums have come. The S8 dazzles with its power, smart features, and low-maintenance dock, but its price might give you pause. The S7 offers incredible value, handling most homes with ease. You can’t go wrong with either, but your choice depends on your needs and wallet. Pick the S8 for luxury, the S7 for practicality—either way, your floors will thank you.