Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus Review

Robotic vacuums have evolved over the years with significant improvements in navigation and obstacle avoidance.

The Ecovacs N8 Pro + embodies the latter with front-facing 3D laser sensors.

It’s a huge improvement over the previous T8’s front camera which had more blind spots.

Apart from improving obstacle avoidance, the N8 Pro provides consumers with a Cheapest alternative to T8 You should choose the automatic discharge system.

I’ve run this robot through my usual series of tests to determine how it compares to the older Ecovacs T8 and whether it’s a better alternative.

Positives

• Cheaper than Ecovacs T8 with automatic dump dock
• Its high airflow makes it an above average sweeping robot
• Self-discharge feature takes one tedious task
• Efficient navigation thanks to LIDAR
• 3D front sensors improve obstacle avoidance on the T8

Negatives

• Sub-par deep cleaning performance
• Expensive compared to other brands of auto vacuum robot

Introduction to Ecovacs N8 Pro +

Ecovacs is ramping up research and development to keep pace with the likes of Roborock, DreameTech and Roomba.

The N8 Pro+ is its latest version with one important upgrade – a 3D front sensor that uses three lasers to detect obstacles.

It’s an improvement over the Ecovacs T8’s front camera, which has a lot of blind spots.

Let’s take a look at this technology more closely below.

TrueDetect 3D front laser sensors

If there is one reason to choose the Ecovacs N8 Pro over the T8 it is this technology.

Three laser sensors instead of a camera provide a 3D perspective when obstacles are detected, hence the terminology.

Using a laser increases its accuracy and reduces blind spots, reduces blind spots and increases the odds of avoiding objects.

I’ve tested it on several types of obstructions with mixed results.

Surprisingly, he managed to avoid wires – coiled and spread. I even tried to put it on edge, and the N8 avoided it without tangling.

Also, he was fine with fake stool, and totally avoided it. But I wouldn’t recommend relying on the AI ​​of the robot to avoid faeces because the brush could touch it and spread germs everywhere.

The N8 did a good job avoiding slippers, but he pushed against that red shoe.

I tried to put it on the edge, which would be a more practical test because people tend to store shoes in this area.

It was better, as he avoided them completely, so if you leave the shoes on the sides, there is no need to move them.

Unfortunately, she did not avoid this weight scale as she tried to climb over it on multiple occasions, which is in contrast to DreameTech which avoided it.

One reason could be that Ecovacs algorithm has a higher threshold for balancing barrier crossing and obstacle avoidance.

Automatic unloading docking

Strange that the Ecovacs N8 Pro + is Cheaper than T8 AIVI With the base station, at least on Amazon.

It’s at a similar price level to the Roomba I7+, but Ecovacs offers more functionality with a scanning chip and more software features.

This variant uses the ramp-style base station with two ports to empty the contents of the trash.

I thoroughly experienced how the automatic dump dock sucks the contents of different types of debris – hair, a box full of Quaker oats, a pile of dust.

It did well in all the tests. One drawback is that it didn’t get debris stuck on the filter port.

But it did exceptionally well, even with a container full of Quaker oats — it sucks just about everything out of the trash.

If you’re familiar with my blog or YouTube channel, you’ll know my preference is a ramp as it offers better stability.

The two Ecovac outlets connect to these slots at the bottom of the N8 trash can.

Design

The Ecovacs N8 retains the same design as the T8. Putting the two side by side, you won’t notice the difference because they both have the same color and face.

It keeps the same top-mounted door, revealing the dustbin underneath. There is a brush/blade tool for brush cleaning and detangling.

In advance, you will see a file 3D laser sensors. These are laser sensors that fire infrared signals in a 3D pattern to reduce blind spots. I’ve discussed in detail how it came about, so scroll back up if you haven’t read it yet.

At the bottom, the N8 features the same design with two side brushes surrounded by a combo brush.

Behind the base roller is a slot for the wiper bracket.

litter box design and capacity

Dirt volume in Ecovacs N8 remains the same at 420 ml.

One difference between the trash can and the T8 AIVI (without the automatic emptying dock) is that there are two ports underneath that connect to the base station.

Unloading manually is a breeze if you choose the alternative without the automatic tailgate unloading dock.

Water tank

Behind the robot is a water tank that also doubles as a mop holder stand.

The default water tank for the N8 is not OZMO, but compatible if you upgrade.

It can hold up to 240ml of water, please note that you cannot use detergents or risk damaging the internal components.

There are two options of DEEBOT N8 Pro – Plus and Non-Plus versions.

The add-on comes with an automatically empty dock (similar found on DEEBOT T8 AIVI).

A cheaper alternative is the non-plus version without the base station which is automatically unloaded.

I would prefer to have the plug-in version because it offers more table convenience without manually emptying the robot’s trash.

How does the Ecovacs N8 Pro + navigate?

Because it uses LIDAR, the N8 Pro+ travels in straight lines.

LIDAR enables it to move efficiently, and its lack of reliance on light means you can operate this even in pitch-black conditions.

It rolls around the chair legs so well – it even rolls around this five-legged office chair with swivel wheels without getting caught.

The front 3D sensors add an obstacle avoidance aspect you don’t see on most other brands, and it avoids most obstacles decently.

But there is a limit to the size of the obstacle, and it will not avoid objects about 2 inches wide.

coverage

One recent experiment with robotic brooms is the lid test, in which Quaker oats are scattered in this small room.

I run a single two-track cycle of the robot to see how much and how much it captures from start to finish.

Ecovacs N8 Pro + He finished the race in about 17 minutes Excellent time considering you had to move around the office chair.

I picked up most of the debris around the room and on its fringes. However, the passes were not clean against a Roborock S7 or Roomba S9+but still above average.

Application Features

Download the Ecovacs app to unlock all the advanced features of this robot. I will review the most useful features in this section.

1. Live Map

One of my favorite robot vacuum app features is the live map. It shows users the real-time location of the bot, along with its cleaning status.

LIDAR-based robotic vacuums have trace lines, showing users its progress and cleaning path.

It’s a useful feature in case the bot gets lost or malfunctions.

2. Savings Map

After installing the app, it prompts users to run the bot to create the map. You cannot access other features without this initial run.

Once the map is created, save it. Ecovacs is quite accurate in assigning partitions to rooms, but sometimes it is not done correctly.

Don’t worry, it is possible to merge and assign partitions manually via the app.

Consumers Up to two levels of the map can be saved With provisions to create rooms and add invisible walls and restricted areas.

Unfortunately, the Ecovacs app does not have a map playback or step-by-step guide for creating new maps.

If users want to add a map, they will have to take the bot to another level and start another one.

The robot detects a change in scenery and continues creating a new map.

3. Uncover the map

The Ecovacs app has a map discovery feature that loads the correct map level on the initial scan.

It is a useful feature since the app does not allow users to switch maps manually.

4. Invisible wall

Containment is another pro-Ecovacs application. Consumers can add an invisible wall that prevents the robot from entering the areas behind it.

The beauty of an invisible wall is the ability to draw diagonal lines, which helps a lot in areas it can block.

You can add as many of these on each map level as needed.

5. Restricted areas

If containment lines are not enough, another option is to use restricted areas or containment boxes that prevent the robot from entering a square or rectangular area.

They are very useful in blocking areas where your pets are feeding or a play area for your child. Instead of adding physical barriers, you can draw virtual squares in the app.

6. No scan areas

It’s a feature similar to Restricted Areas, which prevents the bot from scanning the filled area.

However, I don’t think this feature is necessary because the N8 Pro automatically avoids rugs and rugs if a wiping pad is attached.

7. Edit the map

While the app automatically assigns partitions, these partitions are not always accurate, as this feature is turned on.

Consumers can merge and assign partitions manually after saving the map.

Room label is also available if you want to select these areas.

8. Selective room cleaning

Another benefit of the Save Map feature is selective room cleaning, allowing users to choose a specific area they want to clean.

It can be used with the scheduling feature for busy people who may forget to operate the bot manually.

9. Clean areas

This feature is similar to selective room cleaning in that it enables people to clean certain areas.

But instead of sweeping the entire room, it is possible to focus on a specific area.

Unfortunately, you cannot save these areas and draw each time you want to use them.

The only brand I’ve seen so far with a zoned cleaning feature is Roomba.

10. Scheduling

Another feature that adds to the usability of this bot is scheduling. People can set multiple cleaning times per day for entire floor level or specific rooms.

Besides this robot’s ability to automatically discharge, you won’t need to touch this robot for weeks (apart from maintenance).

How much power does the Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus have?

Ecovacs says the N8 Pro Plus has up to 2,600Pa of suction, which is decent but not the highest spec. Other brands like Dream Tech Claim higher numbers (up to 4000 Pa).

However, not all brands use this unit, so I use an anemometer to measure airflow directly onto the brush roll for uniformity.

This helps to have a reference to compare with other brands that do not use Pascal.

Here are the results of the Ecovacs N8 Pro +

• calm: 9.33 cubic feet per minute
• Average: 21.94 cubic feet per minute
• the above: 21.94 cubic feet per minute
• Max +: 22.29 cubic feet per minute

There is not much difference between T8 AIVI and N8 Pro +. To be honest, the difference is negligible.

What I love about the N8 Pro+ is the usable airflow, even at medium settings. Enough to pick up things like sand and dust.

Users can turn on carpet boosting to balance runtime and cleaning performance as it increases suction when it detects carpet.

Cleaning test results

I test all robot vacuums on debris like Quaker oats, coffee grounds, pet droppings, quinoa, sand and hair. Here are the total results.

• Total: 90.55%
• Solid ground: 98.8%
• Sand on the hard floor: 99.5%
• Carpet (surface): 97.75%
• deep cleaning: 66.16%

The Ecovacs N8 Pro+ was slightly better than T8 AIVIat least capture surface debris (98.68% vs. 98.29%), but the latter is better with deep cleaning.

However, the difference between the T8 AIVI and the N8 Pro is minimal. Smaller than an outright winner announcement.

Cleaning performance should not be a deciding factor between these two variables.

hard floor results

• Quaker Oats: 99.8%
• Cafe floors: 98.8%
• Quinoa: 98.4%
• pet litter: 98.2%

The N8 Pro’s high airflow shows up in our hard floor test, where it scored high.

One problem with dual side brushes is their tendency to scatter debris, which is common in most tests.

Fortunately, it still picked up the scattered debris, but the score could have been higher if the spin had been slower.

sand on hard floor

Another experiment I did on solid ground was on sand – 50 grams of it, to be exact.

The Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus was chosen Excellent 99.5% (average of two tests), which confirms higher airflow.

Not captured as cleanly as Roomba S9+, but it was still excellent considering the price difference.

Edge cleaning

An important feature of the Ecovac Dual Side Brush design is edge cleaning. I picked up most of the debris in this area.

Not only in the above experiment but also in the coverage test. The pickup in this area was mostly spotless with a few tidbits of debris left.

It’s a trade-off you’ll need to keep in mind with the scattering issue I mentioned earlier.

hair wrap test

• 5 inch: 70% inside the trash; 30% off the brush
• 7 inch: 45% inside the trash; 55% on the brush

Although there is a combo brush that is supposed to work well on hair, the Ecovac version was only suitable for short strands.

This much hair was picked up after the five inch test.

Unfortunately, that’s too much coil on the brush.

He. She He got 70% through the five inch test but below average 45% with seven inches long hair.

Most of them will be wound on the cylinder and some on the axles.

If you own pets, expect to do a lot of maintenance on the brushes.

Carpet results

I’ve done the same experiments on carpet, both low and medium pile, using 50g of debris (each type), weighing the box empty, and then full to get the results.

low pile

• Quaker Oats: 99.2%
• Cafe floors: 95%
• Quinoa: 98.8%
• pet litter: 97.2%

Once again, the Ecovacs N8 Pro managed to pick up debris on a low-pile carpet with an average of 97.55%.

The captured bottom coffee grounds were pulled down the score a bit. It’s the Achilles heel of most robot vacuums.

But it’s still an excellent grade and on par with its competitors, Roomba I6+, Shark IQ, and Yeedi Vac Station.

middle stack

• Quaker Oats: 98.6%
• Cafe floors: 94.4%
• Quinoa: 100%
• pet litter: 99%

Surprisingly, the N8 Pro performed better on a medium-pile carpet, thanks mainly to the higher pickup on quinoa and pet litter.

Not sure why I gain more. It could be the main brush that lines up best on the debris path.

But it’s an encouraging sign and proof that this robot has usable cleaning performance on carpets.

deep cleaning

Unfortunately, it didn’t do well in our deep cleaning test, as I rubbed 100g of sand on a medium pile rug.

I picked up an average of 66.16% Slightly less than T8 AIVI.

One factor could be the primary brush, which is soft, which gets in the way of its frizz.

scanning performance

I tested how good the Ecovacs N8 Pro+ wiper was with dry red wine stains.

The results were amazing since it had no vibrating element, and cleaned most stains after one two-pass cycle.

However, it needed a second run to clean up the remaining stains. It’s not as good as Roborock S5 Maxbut it is close.

After two rounds, the N8 Pro cleaned pretty much all the stains.

I recommend this for light wiping jobs, to keep floors clean.

However, I don’t recommend using it on heavy or sugary stains as it will leave a sticky residue.

How noisy is the Shark N8 Pro Plus?

Despite the higher airflow, I loved how well the Ecovacs kept noise levels down.

I used a sound meter to check out a few meters away, and here are the results.

• calm: 56.8 dB
• Average: 59.6 dB
• the above: 64.4 dB
• Max +: 64.4 dB

65dB is impressive Given that this robot has 22 CFMwhich is much quieter than Roborock S7 and Roborock S9 + That both exceeded 68 decibels.

This is an excellent option if low noise output is a top priority.

How long will the Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus last?

With a mid-range 2900mAh Li-ion battery, the N8 Pro . will power you up For up to 110 minutes Excellent in small and medium sized homes.

no Roborock level Range, but for capacity, it’s still decent.

Recharging and Resuming helps expand the range because it resumes cleaning if it has not completed the cleaning cycle previously.

The good thing about the Ecovacs is the usable power, even at medium settings. You can use it on hard surfaces and run carpet reinforcement for the best compromise on power and uptime.

What comes in the box?

1. Ecovacs N8 Pro robot (water tank already connected)
2. Automatic empty dock (with plug)
3. Two side brushes (without additives)
4. scan slide
5. Reusable wiping pad
6. One pack of disposable wiping pads
7. Manual and quick start guide

Availability of spare parts

Ecovacs’ popularity has grown over the years, and this bodes well for the availability of their parts.

The N8 Pro shares as many components as the T8 AIVI, so where to source parts shouldn’t be a concern.

Components such as side brushes, combo brushes, pouches, and pads should be readily available at stores like Amazon.

It’s hard to find parts like the battery too if they go bad after the warranty period.

maintenance

A large part of robot vacuum ownership is maintenance. Keeping its components in order can be the difference between one year and many years.

I’ll share a few tidbits about which parts to clean and replace, as well as the time periods below.

1. Combo brush: This component is the most misused part because its primary job is to capture debris. Clean it once a week to remove any accumulated hair and dust.
2. Side brush: Beside the main brush, the side brush takes a lot of punishment. Since it uses bristles, more care is needed. Brush it once a week to remove any coat of hair on the arms or base. Try to gently pull and tighten the threads to prevent them from bending.
3. Dustbin: Even with an automatic emptying dock, check the trash at least once every two weeks to clean out any accumulated material. Check the filter if it needs cleaning. The high-efficiency filter is not washable, but the black foam is washable, so clean it under running water. Make sure it is completely dry before putting it back in.
4. Wheels: Dirt will accumulate overtime on the threads. Bring a clean microfiber towel to clean it.
5. fall sensors: Use a clean, dry microfiber towel to clean the drop sensors on the bottom of the robot. Wipe it regularly to prevent dust and debris from accumulating to avoid error codes from triggering and disabling the robot.
6. Automatic empty dock: There isn’t much here except replacing the bags if they get full. Also, keep the two ports clear of obstructions that could block them.
7. robot body: Wipe the robot’s body with a clean, dry microfiber towel to remove fingerprints and dust buildup.

Product Spec.

Where can I buy Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus?

This auto vacuum bot is available in online stores like Amazon. Check the links below for the latest prices.

• Ecovacs N8 Pro +

BUY NOW FROM AMAZON

Disclaimer: I’ll earn a commission if you buy through any of these links, but at no additional cost to you, so it’s a win-win for us!

Is Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus Worth It?

As I said earlier, the Ecovacs N8 Pro+ is a better value-for-money option than the T8 AIVI if you’re buying it with the auto empty base station.

Oddly enough, this alternative is cheaper on Amazon than its bigger brother, the T8.

The cleaning performance is decent and on par with its competitors like Roomba I3 and I6And Yadi Fak StationAnd Shark IQ Auto is empty.

But it is a degree lower than Roomba S9+, 980, and Roborock S7.

It’s also below average with a deep cleaning rug. So it’s a compromise that you should consider between getting an affordable car blank option that doesn’t deep clean carpets either or something more expensive that does.

When factoring in the price and what you’ll get out of the box, it provides a lot of value.

5 reasons to buy Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus

1. One of the cheaper alternatives: This variant is more affordable than the Ecovacs T8 AIVI with an automatic dump dock.
2. 2 in 1 functions: It brooms and mops floors well. Not as good as the S5 Max, but it’s close.
3. Excellent on surface debris: The N8 Pro picked up a good 98.68% surface debris – one of the best results in its price category.
4. Convenience of automatic discharge: It has a self emptying dock that does an excellent job of constantly picking up the contents from the trash.
5. It avoids obstacles well: Although the TrueDetect 3D system isn’t perfect, it does the job of avoiding obstacles, even on the edges.

Verdict: Forced automatic unloading option that avoids obstructions well

This robot is one of the few options that brings together Obstacle avoidance of laser accuracy and the convenience of a self-empty berth.

If these two features are a high priority, take a closer look at the Ecovacs N8 Pro+.

It’s one of the cheaper alternatives with these technologies packed inside.

While it doesn’t clean deeply either, it cleans surface debris well enough to warrant a look, especially inside homes with a mix of hardwood floors and carpets.