Neato D8 vs. Roborock S7

We will take a closer look at the Neato D8 and Roborock S7 smart robot vacuum cleaner in this comparison.

Both products use LIDAR and SLAM for navigation, but which one is better?

The Botvac D8 is one of three new products from Neato released this year.

The S7 is the flagship of Roborock with a self-discharge feature and a new vibrating mopping pad, thus improving mopping performance over conventional mops.

I have tested these bots extensively, and subjected them to various experiments to check their performance in various aspects such as navigation, cleaning performance and much more.

Neato D8 vs Roborock S7 + Overview

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Introduction to Neato D8 and Roborock S7 +

Neato D8 and Roborock S7 belong to two different eras of robot space.

Neato was a pioneer alongside iRobot and was the first to use a D-shaped and LIDAR design.

Roborock is a relative newcomer but with never-before-seen features, such as an invisible wall and restricted areas.

Neato and Roomba have somewhat forced them to adapt and add these features to their products.

While both products use LIDAR, there are a lot of differences in how these robots navigate, which we’ll look at later.

Budget Smart Mobility Robot: Neato D8

Positives

• Budget Smartphone Android Choice
• Advanced airflow (above 19 feet per minute)
• Wide brush roll makes it effective for picking up debris
• Large Waste Bin (0.7 L)
• LIDAR Navigation

Negatives

• quirks with mobility
• MyNeato app lacks features
• No self emptying option

when Neato launched the D8It was priced over $500, which was a bit high given its limitations.

But it has since fallen to mid-priced levels ($300).

One of Neato’s selling points is its wide brush roll (over 11″), the widest in the industry.

No other robotic vacuum cleaner comes close to it with the width of a brush. The Roomba S9+ is the closestbut it’s two inches narrower.

The brush’s wide roller makes it more efficient than any robotic vacuum cleaner, at least on paper.

However, there are problems with this bot that hinder its potential.

The biggest would be the navigation issues which severely hamper it during my tests.

The high airflow makes it excellent for deep cleaning embedded dirt but it lacks multi-pass operation. You’ll have to schedule relief from this omission.

I love the design of the Neato D8. It has a lot of promise, but the navigation issues are something Neato will have to fix to compete with other brands.

Two-in-one versatility: Roborock S7 +

Positives

• Great cleaning performance, especially on hard floors
• Excellent Scan Flipping
• Self-discharge feature is available
• Best in class app (in my opinion)
• Efficient Navigation

Negatives

• Expensive option
• The scanning feature is limited to what can be cleaned

Roborock has introduced many innovations with its product offerings, and S7 + is no exception.

It’s the first Roborock product with the base station that empties automatically, so it empties the trash automatically after every run.

Another upgrade offered by Roborock is the upgraded scanning mechanism with a vibration element they call the VibraRise.

It’s the first product of its kind that I’ve tested with a vibration pad.

The vibrating element helps to wipe stains better and more efficiently.

However, there is still a limit to what can be wiped because it does not capture liquid like a floor washing robot (for example, ILIFE W450 and W400).

The performance of the vacuum cleaner is excellent despite having below average airflow. And that brings me to the next upgrade, the bristle brush brush.

These rubberized wrap-around blades provide excellent abrasion, and thus a great pick-up.

It was good on both surface and built-in dirt, and I would say a good alternative to the Roomba, especially on hard floors with its mopping function.

Similarities Between Neato D8 and Roborock S7 +

Next, we’ll look at the similarities between the Neato D8 and the Roborock S7.

1. LIDAR NAVIGATION

The most obvious similarity is the LIDAR navigation system, with both models relying on a laser sensor mounted on top for location tracking.

These robots also use SLAM, a similar technology used in self-driving cars. It acts as a control sensor and takes all the data from LIDAR, helping the robot to overcome various obstacles.

The use of a laser also enables these products to pass through even in complete darkness, so both are impervious to complete darkness.

2. Efficient navigation

The laser sensor helps it move in straight lines, which makes it more efficient than a random hopping robot that orbits around it.

This efficiency (along with the wide brush) helps cover more ground in less time.

3. Recharge and resume

Another benefit of using LIDAR is Recharge and Resume, which means that it resumes cleaning if it hasn’t finished the task beforehand.

This benefits the D8 even more with a shorter runtime of 100 minutes because it continues to vacuum after recharging.

A smaller battery will not affect the range.

4. Top litter box

The Neato D8 and Roborock S7 both use a top-mounted trash can, but the D8 version has a larger capacity at 0.7 liters.

The Roborock S7 has a smaller capacity (0.42 liters) and won’t hold much room.

However, it does have a base station that empties automatically, which automates the task of emptied it.

5. Containment

The Roborock and MyNeato app allow consumers to draw containment boxes (or restricted areas), which prevents the bot from going into restricted areas.

However, Roborock offers better flexibility through its invisible wall feature. So consumers can draw diagonal lines, to prevent the robot from overtaking it.

Differences between Neato D8 and Roborock S7 +

Next, we’ll look at the differences between these bots, and there are a lot of them, which I’ll enumerate below.

1. Automatic unloading base station [Roborock S7 only]

Only the Roborock S7+ has a self-discharge feature with an automatic discharge dock.

You can buy it as a set (S7+) or buy it separately.

The base station offers hands-free convenience not available with the D8 because it empties the trash after the cleaning cycle.

2. 2 in 1 versatility [Roborock S7 only]

The Roborock S7 offers two-in-one functionality absent with the D8. It can vacuum and mop simultaneously with the pad in the back.

It’s a similar design to the S5 Max and S6 MaxV, but with the vibrating cushion feature.

3. Number of passes

Roborock products like the S7 can rotate up to three times through the room and region tab.

In comparison, MyNeato app doesn’t have this option and only runs once.

4. Shape

everyone Roborock robotic vacuum cleaner It has a circular frame, while Neto Botvac The products use a square frame.

I like the square frame because a wide brush fits on it, something not possible with a round body.

5. Roll brush

The brush roller design is another difference between the Neato D8 and the Roborock S7.

The Roborock was introduced in the S7 and is a new brush roller design without any bristles, while the D8 uses an aggregate brush.

Both have above average agitation, but I would give preference to the S7 because it scored higher in the cleaning tests.

6. Side brush

The shape difference also means the side brush contrast with the position contrast. The Roborock side brush has a larger diameter to compensate for its placement in the back, while the Neato side brush is smaller and slightly behind the base roller.

7. criss-cross pattern [Roborock S7]

Roborock introduced cross-cleaning style with the S7. It’s something (formerly) absent with their previous models [S5 Max, S6 Pure, and S6 MaxV]. This feature is very useful with scanning performance.

But I’m not sure if the cross pattern was implemented with other variables.

8. Application Differences

The Roborock S7 is compatible with the Roborock app, while the Neato D8 is usable with the MyNeato app.

Using the app will unlock all the features of these bots, but note that both are only compatible with 2.4GHz networks, but not with 5G.

I like Roborock better because it offers more features and frequent updates. The MyNeato app is completely barebones and only provides basic functionality.

Application Features

We will take a look at the various application features of these bots and their variations.

Please note that some of the screenshots you will see are from older versions of the Roborock app, but the functionality remains the same.

It’s a good thing as this proves that Roborock updates its app frequently, which is not the case with other brands.

1. Live Map [Roborock S7 Only]

My favorite feature of the Roborock app is the live map. It provides a real-time update of the bot’s location on the map.

You can see the areas that have been vacuumed and their location, so it’s easy to keep track of progress.

MyNeato app does not have this functionality and only shows a bot drawing.

2. Save map

Roborock can save (up to) four map levels, while MyNeato can only save one.

However, a note on the MyNeato app indicates that multi-level map saving will be available soon.

However, I think this is another omission, and Neato should have implemented this feature when it was released.

3. Containment

Users can draw specific containment areas within these maps, which prevents the bot from entering restricted areas.

Roborock app provides more options: Invisible wall, No zones, No zones.

The latter two are similar in that they both block an area. But since the S7 has a mop lift feature, no mop areas are redundant and unnecessary.

Red lines are invisible walls and are very useful for sealing inclined areas.

In comparison, the MyNeato app is very limited, and only contains restricted areas.

The older Neato implementation (for variants D3 through D7) has the block fonts feature, but it is absent in the newer implementation.

4. Map Customizations [Roborock S7 only]

The Roborock app contains map customization functions such as merging areas, split spaces, and room naming.

Unfortunately, the MyNeato app lacks this feature, and there is no way to customize it.

5. Selective room cleaning [Roborock S7]

Another advantage of the Roborock application is the selective cleaning of the room. It allows consumers to choose a specific area for cleaning.

So it provides a level of control to consumers and can be used with the scheduling feature, in addition to its own customization options.

6. Clean areas

Another feature of the Roborock app is area cleaning, where users can select a specific area on the map that they want to clean. It’s something the MyNeato app is missing.

7. Scheduling

Both apps have a scheduling feature, allowing consumers to automate cleaning tasks.

Users can schedule multiple runs per day for both apps, which helps if you want to keep floors tidy.

The Roborock S7’s self emptying feature makes the most of as there is no need to empty the trash manually.

Navigation comparison

Next, we’ll look at how these robots move. Neato D8 and Roborock S7 use LIDAR and SLAM, so they both have a smart algorithm that moves in straight lines.

LIDAR robots start running and clean the edges before moving to the middle.

One benefit of using a laser sensor is that it will work even in very dark conditions. You can operate these bots in complete darkness without any problems.

But Roborock S7 has a better, more efficient and comprehensive algorithm.

The app allows users to increase the number of lanes (between one and three) through the Clean Room or Area tab.

Neato doesn’t have that option and only walks around once, which hampers its accuracy.

Also, the Roborock S7 rotates twice by default and the excellent panning makes it efficient.

Coverage test

Both variables performed well in the coverage test.

The Neato D8 was decent, capturing everything, despite running with just one pass.

But the Roborock S7 fared much better with its efficient crosshair and capture pattern. The three-pass running is precise and swallows all the dirt.

Air Flow Comparison

adjust power	Roomba S9 +	adjust power	Neato D8
calm	8.2 CFM	prefix meaning environment	13.74 cubic feet per minute
balanced	9.68 cubic feet per minute	turbo	19.74 cubic feet per minute
turbo	11.33 cubic feet per minute
the above	13.91 cubic feet per minute

Air flow is another factor to consider when choosing a robot vacuum. Products with higher airflow tend to do better cleaning than lower airflow options.

Of course, there are exceptions like Roomba’s dual-brush and dirt-detector products, but it’s an exception.

No other product on the market has these technologies because iRobot owns the patent.

Neato D8 has higher airflow At more than 19 feet per minutewhile only Roborock S7 Maximum 13 feet per minute.

However, the Roborock S7 does better with its redesigned brush roller, even with reduced airflow.

cleaning performance

I tested all the robots on debris such as Quaker oats, quinoa, pet droppings, coffee grounds, hair, and sand.

The Roborock S7 fared better than the Neato D8 in all surface tests, evidence of improved stimulation from the redesigned brush roll.

Not surprisingly, the Neato D8 did better with built-in sandblasting because it has a higher airflow.

However, mobility issues hamper the possibility of cleaning, and the results are a clear indication.

What is the best robot on hard floors?

The Roborock S7 is the best choice with its sleek and comprehensive navigation. The results reflect that observation, capturing a few percentage points better in each category.

One of the experiments I use as a benchmark on this surface is the sand test on the hard floor. The S7+ was even better, as it almost got a perfect score.

The Neato D8 wasn’t bad, but there was a leftover residue, even after several rides. It was not captured as cleanly as I would have liked.

Edge cleaning comparison

You’d think the Neato D8 would clean this area better on paper. But that is not the issue.

Check out the before and after shot of the Neato D8.

It picked up most of the debris, but left a bit close to the edge. Another problem was that it did not pick up debris on the quarter-inch crevice.

The Roborock S7 was a little better, picking up debris.

Like the D8, it struggled to pick up things in the quarter-inch crevice, which indicates that it lacks airflow.

Hair wrap comparison

I used five and seven inch strands to experiment with twisting the hair.

The D8’s wider brush roller picked up 5″ more threads (94%) than the S7 (75%).

Hardly anything coiled on the D8 brush with five inch hairs.

The Roborock S7 performed well but not as well as the D8.

However, they both struggled with seven inches longer hair.

This much hair is wrapped around the S7 brush.

And that’s a lot on the Neato D8 brush.

Which is better on the carpet?

The Neato D8 is 85% better at cleaning built-in dirt, while the S7 is around 78% less than that.

But the latter is better with shallow pickup, thanks to its navigation.

The D8’s wide brush delivers better efficiency because it captures more in every stroke.

Scan comparison

Only Roborock S7+ has the scanning feature. The Neato D8 does not have it nor does it have a scanning bot, unlike the iRobot with the Braava series.

Roborock revamped the wiping design and added a vibration element, which helped it clean stains better than the S5 Max and S6 MaxV.

This feature helps it efficiently, cleaning stains in fewer passes.

She cleaned up this big mess in the second pass, but there are limits on what she can clear up.

Runtime comparison

The large 5200mAh lithium-ion battery gives the Roborock S7 a significant advantage in its runtime (up to 180 minutes).

The Neato D8’s smaller 2100mAh battery will run for just 100 minutes (maximum).

However, the presence of the Recharge and Resume feature eases the limitation of the D8 as it will resume cleaning after recharging.

But the limited runtime will be a problem for creating maps inside large homes.

noise comparison

I use a sound meter to check the robot vacuum’s noise levels. Overall, the Roborock S7 is noisier, maxing out at nearly 70 dB (69.8 dB), while the Neato D8 is a bit less noisy at 67.9 dB.

maintenance

Both robots will require some level of maintenance to operate at their peak. I will list the components that need to be cleaned or replaced and the recommended time intervals. Maintenance is an important aspect of ownership, and when done correctly, it will extend the service life of your robot vacuum.

1. Basic brush: The staple brush is the most misused component of any robotic vacuum. They are responsible for picking up debris and need to be brushed at least once a week to clean out any accumulated debris, especially the hairs on the axles.
2. Side brush: Besides the main brush, the next most used component is the side brush. Check the wraps of the hair on the arms or base and clean it at least once a week. The Neato D8 side brush pops up easily as it sticks to a magnet. But you will need a screwdriver to remove the S7 side brush.
3. Dustbin and filter: Empty the trash after each run and tap the filter on the trash can to remove any dirt stuck to the folds. S7+ owners won’t need to empty it manually because a clean base station does it automatically.
4. fall sensors: Use a clean, dry microfiber towel to wipe the drip sensors. Do this at least twice a month.
5. Wheels: Wipe down the sides and caster wheels to remove any dirt stuck to the surface.
6. Automatically empty base station [Roborock S7 only]: Discard the bag when it is full and clean the filters in the other cylinder. Unfortunately, the Roborock app does not notify users when the bag is full, so you will have to check visually. Also check the port going into the bag and make sure it is clear of any blockages.

Availability of spare parts

Neato has a slight advantage over the Roborock since it has been in the market for a longer time. There are more options with third-party components like the battery and filter, but Roborock comes with more and more S7 parts on sale.

Product spec.

Where can I buy these bots?

The Roborock S7 and Neato D8 are available in online stores such as Amazon. Check out the links below for the latest pricing information.

• Roborock S7

BUY NOW FROM AMAZON

• Neato D8

BUY NOW FROM Amazon

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

Which is better option Roborock S7 + or Neado D8?

While both options offer strengths in specific aspects, the Roborock S7 is the better product overall.

It offers more polished navigation, better and versatile app experience with the blues feature.

But the Neato D8 is the much cheaper option and with a D-shaped frame, it has a wider brush, so it picks up more debris on every pass.

I will enumerate the reasons why you should choose a particular variant below to help you decide.

3 reasons to choose Neato D8

1. Much cheaper: The D8 will cost nearly half of the Roborock S7 (without auto-discharge), which is something budget-conscious shoppers should consider.
2. wide brush: The 11-inch wide brush allows for more debris to be captured in each stroke than the round-shaped robot.
3. Large litter box: The trash can capacity of 700ml is easily the largest among any robotic vacuum cleaner I’ve tested.

Reasons to choose Roborock S7

1. More refined navigation: Roborock’s algorithm in another league vs. Neato. It’s more efficient and comprehensive, and it’s a reason to pick up more debris even with less airflow.
2. Self-discharge feature: The S7+ comes with an auto-discharge dock, which unlocks the self-discharge aspect absent in any Neato product.
3. Better craftsmanship: The Roborock S7 doubles as a robotic wiper, and with the new VibraRise technology, it’s the best Roborock product for the job.
4. More features of the application: The Roborock app offers better usability than the Barebones MyNeato app.

Verdict: Roborock S7 is the best option but it is expensive

I was expecting a lot from the Neato D8, but its lack of features and disappointing navigation disappoints me.

The Roborock S7 performed better in nearly every test, from cleaning to navigation. It also has better app features, offering more customization options which are absent in MyNeato app.

The consolation for the D8 is its low cost, but that’s it. I wouldn’t say it’s more efficient than the S7 due to mobility issues.