The Outside Roomba, Roborock, and Ecovacs are the most popular robot vacuum options available.
In this comparison, we’ll take a look at their latest offerings, and Roborock S7 and Ecovacs N8 Pro +.
Both have an automatically empty base station, a feature that is growing in popularity. all It presents a unique face The other one doesn’t, and I’m sure you’ll find these interesting as you read through the article.
You’ve spent several days testing these bots individually and have analyzed the numbers to help you understand which option is best? There’s a lot more to unpack in this comparison, so let’s get into it.
Let’s start with a quick overview of each variable.
Roborock S7

- air flow: 13.91 cubic feet per minute
- deep cleaning: 78.85%
- Cleansing: yes
- Automatic unloading: yes
- bag capacity: 3 liters
- Mobility: Lidar and SLAM
- Save the map: yes
- Number of maps: 4
- containment: yes
- Selective room cleaning: yes
- Recharge and resume: yes
- Trash capacity: 420 ml
- Water tank: 300 ml
- Side brush: One
- battery: Li-ion battery 5200 mAh
- the show length: 180 minutes
- Noise: 69.8 dB
Table of Contents
Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus

- air flow: 22.29 cubic feet per minute
- deep cleaning: 66.16%
- Cleansing: yes
- Automatic unloading: yes
- bag capacity: 2.5 liters
- Mobility: Lidar and SLAM
- Save the map: yes
- Number of maps: 2
- containment: yes
- Selective room cleaning: yes
- Recharge and resume: yes
- Trash capacity: 420 ml
- Water tank: 230 ml
- Side brush: two
- battery: 3200 mAh
- the show length: 110 minutes
- Noise: 64.4 dB
Introduction to Roborock S7 and Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus
These two brands are the most popular options outside of Roomba and are slowly catching up thanks to their innovative features not seen in iRobot.
The S7 is the flagship of Roborock And it recently launched its own auto-deflate dock to compete with other brands such as RoombaThe Ecovacs and Dream Tech: all of them Self-unloading robots.
By comparison, the DEEBOT N8 Pro Plus is an Ecovac “budget” alternative to the more expensive DEEBOT T8 AIVI.
This variant has a smaller 3200mAh Li-ion battery Runtime reduced to 110 minutes.
Best-in-class scanning: Roborock S7
Roborock made another Game-changing technology When they released the S7 with a whole new technology They call it “VibraRise”.
We’ll first focus on the term “Vibra,” which refers to a vibrating wiping pad – an industry first.
A vibrating element in the middle moves part of the wiping pad up to 3000 times per minute.
It’s not the whole pillow shaking, but only the middle part.
This additional stirring element helps Roborock S7 Better dry spot cleaning out of any hybrid robotic vacuum I’ve tested.
Vibrating pad loosens stains and reduces wiping time.
I’ve read concerns about build quality if this feature will hold up over time.
The S7 weighs much more than S5 Max and S6 MaxVso this tells me that Roborock is formulated in heavy-duty ingredients, and should last for years.
But you will have to do your part and wash the pad after each wiping cycle to reduce unnecessary friction.
Next, we’ll look at the terminology of “height,” referring to the feature of lift, where the pad is rises five millimeters If the carpet is discovered.
It’s not much of a lift, and the pillow will touch a thick pile or fluffy rug, so it’s not a complete design.
Other upgrades on the S7 include the new brush roll with mounting fins around the barrel. It’s Roborock’s version of iRobot’s bristle-free extractors, but it’s a one-brush design.
Even with less airflow than the S5 Max and S6 MaxV, the S7 was decent in Deep cleaning tests (78.85%).
This proves, that the new brush offers better irritation.
Finally, the automatic emptying dock adds hands-free convenience of not having to empty the trash manually.
For now, it’s an add-on, so when you add the price of the bot + dock, you’ll have to spend Roomba S9+Money on her.
We earn a commission if you click on this link and make a purchase at no additional cost to you.
3D Obstacle Avoidance: Ecovacs N8 Pro
Ecovacs is adding another variant to its growing product line: N8 Pro.
It is a cheaper alternative to T8 series with extension Smaller Li-ion battery (3200 mAh vs. 5200 mAh)shortened runtime to 110 minutes (from 180).
This model has the front 3D TrueDetect laser sensors, which I prefer over the camera sensors used in Depot T8 AIVI.
These lasers provide more precision and Remove any privacy concerns Some consumers have a spy camera in their homes.
Based on my tests, it avoids obstructions better, especially wires, than the T8.
The DEEBOT N8 Pro PlusThe one I tested earlier has an automatically empty dock which I am a big fan of as it provides the hands-free convenience of not having to manually empty the robot’s trash can.
The N8 Pro shares as many components as the T8 AIVI, using the same side brush and combo brush.
They all have the same navigation, except for the front obstacle avoidance sensors.
This robot also has a rear-mounted water tank and mopping platform, so like the Roborock S7, it functions as a robotic mop.
There are two options for N8 Pro – File Additional and non-additional alternatives.
The N8 Pro Plus is more expensive but comes with an automatically empty dock, which adds hands-free convenience, so there’s no need to touch the robot for weeks.
N8 Pro (non-plus version) is cheaper but does not automatically have an empty dock.
Similarities Between Roborock S7 and Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus
Even if these robots have many cosmetic differences, there are many similarities, which we will look at below.
1. LIDAR COVER
The most obvious similarity is the LIDAR cover in the upper center section that houses the laser sensor: the primary navigation sensor for these robots.
LIDAR has many benefits, chief among them being its accuracy, and it works even in dark conditions.
Mapping is another strength as LIDAR points first around its surroundings in a 360-degree pattern and maps more accurately than a camera-based SLAM robot (or VSLAM).
2. Intelligent navigation
Continuing the navigation benefits of LIDAR, both brands have intelligent navigation, each moving in straight lines.
One difference is that the Roborock can do up to three passes, while the Ecovacs max out with two passes.
Another is Roborock that has a crisscross pattern for both sweeping and sweeping cycles.
Ecovacs don’t have a crossover pattern and seem to go the shortest way.
Check out this screenshot to see what I mean.
In a rectangular area, you find the shortest distance from tip to end and use this path.
Using LIDAR also means excellent efficiency, which I will cover later in this review.
3. Containment
These bots have containment features, namely, invisible walls, restricted areas, and blocking areas, providing users with some alternatives to blocking restricted areas.
However, you will not use the no-mop area feature because each variant uniquely avoids wiping carpeted areas.
The Roborock S7 uses a “Rise” feature to raise the wiping pad if it detects a rug, while the Ecovacs N8 Pro avoids rugs with the wiping pad attached.
4. Save map
Thanks to LIDAR and SLAM, users can save maps for both models.
One difference is the number of maps each can save: File S7 can save up to 4while the N8 Pro saves up to 2.
Despite this, Roborock is more user-friendly because it has a quick start type method for creating new maps.
Ecovacs don’t have that wrinkle, and users must run the robot through a new cleaning cycle to create the new map.
People can add sections manually on each map level, but with LIDAR these sections are very subtle, especially for Roborock, and in most cases only minor modifications are required.
Multiple containment areas are also allowed on each level for added comfort.
5. 2 in 1 function
These robots are 2-in-1 hybrid robots that can also mop floors.
Placing the pad behind the main brush means it’s possible to mop and vacuum simultaneously.
One difference is the vibration element of the S7, which provides better stain cleaning results than the N8 Pro.
Roborock also contains a file Larger water tank (300ml vs 240ml)Which enables it to cover a larger area.
6. Provide automatic emptying trough
Both variants have provisions for automatic unloading docking, which means you can use both of them with the self-unloading base station.
Another similarity is that both berths use a bagged system to store debris. Roborock bag is bigger 3 liter capacity versus 2.5 liter EcoVac.
7. Shape
Both options have round tires, which is a standard tire most brands use.
The large disc-shaped cap is the LIDAR sensor cap.
Under the hood is the door that reveals the top-mounted camera.
Each includes a brush/blade tool to clean the trash and detangle hair stuck to the brush.
Behind each robot is an electronic water tank.
Differences between Roborock S7 and Ecovacs N8 Pro Plus
Next, we will look at the difference between these bots, and there are a lot of them.
1. Automatic empty dock design
The first difference is the design of the dock, which deflates automatically. While both use a ramp system and a bagged system, the similarities end there.
Roborock has one port connected to the trash can entry.
Ecovacs have two smaller ports that connect to the bottom two slots of the trash can.
I’ve tested extensively with different types of debris and found the Ecovac design to be better all around.
I’ve successfully dumped various types of debris from a basket full of Quaker oats, hair, dust, and other everyday contaminants I’ve picked up from other brooms in my house.
The Roborock automatic empty dock was also fine but had trouble getting a full container of Quaker oats, even after several tries.
However, one feature of the front port of the S7 is that it cleans dust particles from the filter housing better.
It also has a failover protection feature that shuts down the base station motor if you try to empty it multiple times in succession.
The Roborock dock also has two filters, as well as a bag system. I think this feature is there because some non-US versions of the S7 will be bagless.
2. Brush design and layout
We shift our focus to robotics and one notable difference is the brush design.
Roborock has made several upgrades since launching its first product – the S5.
Full rubber side brush [Roborock S7]
The first upgrade is the full rubber side brush that was introduced on the S5 Max.
I like this change because using a rubber component instead of bristles increases its durability.
One of the problems with the bristle side brushes is their tendency to bend, which was the case with the Ecovacs – at least the N8 Pro after you put it through its paces.
Other brands like Roomba may offer better durability, possibly because they use better bristles.
I’ve done several cleaning tests with the S7, and the side brush has held up well. Another advantage is ease of cleaning.
Frizz-free rollers [Roborock S7]
The next upgrade offered by Roborock is the bristle-free extractors with fins all around. It drops the combo design you see in other brands.
This new all-latex brush improves irritation and makes it easier to clean coils, although it doesn’t completely avoid it.
The absence of bristles improves longevity and facilitates cleaning and maintenance.
Another upgrade in the S7 is the floating brush set that allows for “multiple levels of movement”.
Helps brush stay attached to the surface, even in transitions.
Dual side brush [Ecovacs N8 Pro]
Ecovacs uses a traditional side brush design with the dual side brush system, using bristle heads.
Using two side brushes increases the risk of debris splashing twice, but it also improves edge-cleaning performance, as you’ll see later.
Combo brush [Ecovacs N8 Pro]
The N8 Pro uses the same combo brush as the T8 with a blade and bristles. While this brush picks up debris decently, it lags behind the Roborock with stirring, as indicated by the lower averages.
3. Garbage bin design and size
Although they both have an overhead litter box, the design differs.
The Roborock does not have any base station port outlets but does use the inlet as the debris exits to the automatic discharge dock.
It has one port on the side, but it acts as a release valve to stabilize the outflow of air.
The N8 Pro trash bin is similar to the T8, with the tailgate empty. It has these two ports underneath (for the extra version), connected to the automatic charging base.
Roborock and Ecovac trash can Same volume at 420ml.
But with the self-discharging base station, dirt capacity shouldn’t be a deciding factor because the base station unloads it for you.
4. Scanning unit
I mentioned previously. Both types can mop floors; Their scanning units are different.
The Roborock has a separate scanning motor behind the brush assembly, which is responsible for side-to-side movement on the mapping stand.
This tool adds to the weight and why Roborock can’t add bottom ports as other brands use.
The vibrating element provides better agitation and better overall scanning performance.
Ecovacs don’t have any motor, so they don’t have any fuss but just pull a wet pad on to the surface.
Another difference is how the scan slide is attached.
The Roborock pad slides easily under it, while the Ecovac uses tower ports, so you’ll either have to flip the robot over or remove the water tank to install it.
Application Features in Roborock S7 and Ecovacs N8 Pro
Both robot vacuums have smartphone apps to improve usability. To access all the features, users will have to download their own apps which are available in the App Store of your choice (Android and IOS).
We’ll take a look at their features in this section.
1. Live Map [Both]
One of my favorite features for both is the live map. Displays the current location of the robot and the status of the cleaning cycle.
Since they each use LIDAR, you’ll see lines inside the map showing how far the bot is running.
Roborock version has better stability as the lines are always visible.
The Ecovac live map fluctuates and does not display these lines steadily.
Using LIDAR also provides better mapping accuracy.
Because the laser sensor constantly shoots 360-degree signals around the robot, it picks up surrounding walls better than camera-based options like Yeedi and Roomba.
2. Savings Map [Both]
Apart from the live map, both the apps can save multiple maps.
Roborock is the winner in this category because it can memorize up to 4 map levels.
Ecovacs can only save 2.
The Roborock app also has a quick-to-start, step-by-step map creation process that is absent in Ecovacs, so it’s more user-friendly.
Users can use custom names for each level to help users quickly identify these areas.
3. Map Customizations [Both]
Once the maps are created, they can be customized.
Roborock’s version.
Ecovac version.
There are several customization options:
- Zoning: Add partitions for different rooms or areas.
- Merge: Merge the regions if the default partitions are incorrect.
- containment: Add invisible walls, no-go zones, or no-go zones.
LIDAR is very meticulous in creating these divisions, especially in areas with doors.
Roborock, in particular, based on my experiences, is excellent at this, and there is no need to do it manually.
The app still has this option, and it’s fail-safe if it doesn’t.
4. Label the room [Both]
With the sections set, now it’s time to name these areas.
However, only the Roborock app has a custom naming feature, which means you can use any room name, which adds even more flexibility.
Ecovacs does not, and users will have to settle for the listed items.
5. Containment [Both]
People can add containment to each map level. I’m not sure what the maximum is, but it’s probably about 10 of each.
These containment areas (blocking areas and invisible walls) are useful in preventing the robot from going into restricted areas.
Most homes have these areas, which is an easy thing to do versus using more difficult magnetic tape to spread it around.
6. Selective room cleaning [Both]
Another benefit of saving maps is that users can choose a room they want to clean.
Custom Roborock Cleanup.
Ecovac custom cleaning.
This is useful, especially inside large homes where it is not practical to allow the robot to clean the entire area at once.
7. Clean areas [Both]
A difference in selective room cleaning is the cleaning of areas.
Instead of choosing the entire room, users can zero in on a smaller area within it.
For example, you want to clean a smaller area inside the living room. This feature will come in handy.
Unfortunately, these areas cannot be saved. The only app I’ve seen with this capability is the iRobot Home app.
8. Scheduling [Both]
Each application has a scheduling feature, which increases the self-discharge capabilities of both robots.
Ecovac scheduling feature.
Roborock scheduling feature.
This automates the sweeping process, no need to touch the robot, except for weeks of maintenance.
It is also possible to schedule multiple runs per day without any minimum gap requirement, which is the case for iRobot and SharkClean apps.
Users can also select a specific room to clean at a specific time, which increases automation.
9. Increase the carpet [Both]
One of the issues with continuous use of the maximum setting is battery drain.
People can reduce this problem by turning on carpet reinforcement, so it only uses the maximum setting when it detects carpet.
Next, we’ll look at how well the Roborock S7 and Ecovacs N8 Pro navigate, and there are some similarities.
These robots use the same navigation sensors – LIDAR and SLAM, so they cross similarly, starting at the edges before moving towards the middle parts.
But Roborock It has a crossover pattern absent in Ecovacs. This feature helps with Roborock accuracy because it makes turns tighter.
Ecovacs do not have a crossover pattern but only go in one direction. I’ve noticed that it’s looking for a shorter distance from one end to the other and is going in that direction.
Coverage comparison
Aside from testing how the robot vacuum moves around, I also test how much debris it picks up in the test area.
The Roborock S7 is better per pass and overall compared to the Ecovacs N8 Pro.
What’s impressive is that it did so despite the reduced airflow. The fairways were cleaner in the middle and edges, with fewer rear debris.
The Ecovacs N8 was decent, but left more debris after two runs.
efficiency
Another wrinkle I put to the test for coverage is efficiency or how long you finish running two passes.
Ecovacs wins this comparison by about three minutes as it completed the round in 17 minutes versus the Roborock S7’s time of 20 minutes.
I think taking the shortest path from end to end is better, at least for this test.
But considering the efficiency score, the Roborock is better overall because it picked up more dirt.
Air Flow Comparison
One of the tools I use to measure strength is the anemometer to provide my readers with a more consistent specification.
An anemometer measures the airflow in the nozzle. Please note that these are not official results but only results from my tests.
The Ecovacs N8 Pro easily has more airflow at every power setting, Ranked #1 in 22.29 CFM At the Max+ setting, roughly 10 more than the S7’s 13 CFM.
I like the usable power of the two middle settings, so it’s possible to use these modes to extend your runtime.
cleaning comparison
Unfortunately, the Ecovac’s higher airflow doesn’t translate well in cleaning tests because it didn’t.
The above results are a rare case where higher airflow does not translate into better cleaning performance.
Roborock was better across the board in both the surface and deep cleaning tests.
An important factor that led to the S7’s performance better is that the new extractors provide better variability.
Not only was it better on the tests that were measured, but the eye test also confirms the result because it made the successes cleaner.
A slow, one-sided brush is another reason it works better, and splashes less debris.
Which is better on hard floors?
One measure I like to use to clean hard floors is sand. The Roborock S7 is slightly better than the N8 Pro+ (99.8 vs 99.5%).
Here is a before and after shot of the Roborock S7.
The Ecovacs N8 Pro wasn’t too bad in this test, making it an almost clean pass. But the loss to the S7 with reduced airflow is disappointing.
The S7 also picked up more debris than other surface debris, with 99.7% pickup, which is excellent.
Edge cleaning comparison
One feature of the N8 Pro’s dual side brushes is its edge-to-edge performance, catching up more than the S7.
The Roborock S7 was actually decent for a single-sided circular brush robot, but it left more debris, even after turning on the scroll.
Hair wrap comparison
The lack of an active anti-tangle system hurt both models because it left a huge amount of hair after the five and seven inch trials.
Roborock did a little better, with the 5-inch test achieving a 5% increase.
However, both were below par in the seven-inch test, rising in the mid-40s.
One advantage of Roborock is that it is easier to remove tangles without using any scissors as it comes on easily.
The N8 Pro does not have the same convenience as you will need scissors to remove long threads.
Which is better on the carpet?
Once again, the Roborock S7 was better all around on the carpet, consistently picking up more across the board.
It did better in both the surface and deep cleaning tests, picking up Average 98.9% and 78.85%straight vs The EcoVac score is 97.75% and 66.16%..
The results here prove that the new Roborock brush design works!
Scan comparison
Finally, for the cleaning section, we’ll look at how these robots compare to mopping floors.
Let’s take a look at the before and after shots of the Ecovacs N8 Pro+.
and the Roborock S7.
You can see some residue with the N8 Pro+ that needs a second run to clean it up completely.
The Roborock S7 didn’t need a second round with wine red stains, cleaning most of them after the first pass.
I’ve also tried it on sugary stains like tomatoes and grapes, and while it was good, I wouldn’t recommend using any robotic mop as it leaves a sticky residue afterwards.
The Roborock is clearly the better mopping robot out of these two options, thanks in large part to its vibrating mop.
Runtime comparison
Roborock, once again, has an edge in this category thanks to its 5200mAh lithium-ion battery.
will work for up to 180 minutes At the lowest power setting.
In comparison, the The Ecovacs N8 Pro+ only lasts for up to 110 minutes This is due in large part to the smaller 3200mAh Li-ion battery.
Recharging and resuming helps alleviate this limitation on Ecovacs, but this can be a problem for large homeowners as it may take longer to finish the cleaning cycle.
noise comparison
Ecovacs is the winner in this category a lot. I like how good they are Noise levels kept below 65 dB Although there is more than 20 CFM of airflow.
Probably the least noisy option out of all the robot vacuum alternatives I’ve tested with over 20 CFMs.
maintenance
Maintenance is an important aspect of robot vacuum ownership. Keeping these machines clean helps them last longer. Remember that any friction will lead to unnecessary wear, which in turn will reduce the life span.
- Basic brush: The most abused robot vacuum component since it is responsible for picking up debris. Check and clean once a week to remove any dust and hair that has accumulated around the cylinder and hubs.
- Side brush: The next worst part is the side brush. Like the master cylinder, check for hair buildup on the arms or hub once a week and clean them to reduce unnecessary friction.
- Dustbin and filter: Check the dustbin twice a month for debris buildup, even with an automatic emptying dock. Take out the filter and check it once a month and tap on a hard surface to remove any contaminants caught in the folds – this helps extend its service life. Replace the filter every three to four months.
- fall sensors: Clean these sensors once a month with a clean, dry microfiber towel to prevent an error code from triggering and disabling the robot.
- Wheels: Over time, dirt sticks to the sides and wheels of the wheels. Again, clean them once or twice a month to keep them from rubbing against the surface of the floor.
- robot body: Wipe the robot’s body once a month to remove fingerprints and dust to keep it tidy.
- Automatic unloading dock: Make sure to keep the ports clear of any obstruction that could block them. Replace the bag if it is full. For Roborock S7, check the filters once a month and clean them if they are dirty.
Availability of spare parts
I’ll give a slight advantage to Ecovacs because they’ve been around for a bit longer; Consequently, more third-party brands are selling their components.
Users have more brands to choose from with consumable parts such as side brush, main brush and pouches.
However, none of these can compete with Roomba for more obscure parts like battery, side brush motor, etc., on Amazon.
You will have to check online stores like eBay if they are available.
Products Spec.
Where can I buy these bots?
The Roborock S7 and Ecovacs N8 Pro+ are available at online stores such as Amazon. Check out the links below for more information.
- Roborock S7
- Ecovacs N8 Pro+
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 Ecovacs N8 Pro +?
There are a lot of considerations between choosing these two robots.
I’ll help you decide by listing several reasons to choose each one.
5 reasons to choose Roborock S7
- Superior cleaning performance: The S7 picked up a higher percentage across the board, both on the surface and built-in dirt, despite the lower airflow.
- Better scan results: Another reason to choose the S7 is that it offers better scanning performance thanks to the vibrating cushion.
- Browse more comprehensively: This robot can spin up to three passes versus powering the N8 Pro’s two-pass.
- It saves two more maps: The Roborock app can save up to four map levels, two more than Ecovacs.
- Car Dump Bag: The Roborock bag is larger; Thus, it can withstand more dirt and last longer before needing replacement.
4 reasons to choose Ecovacs N8 Pro +
- Less expensive option: If price is a deciding factor, the Ecovacs N8 Pro + is the no-brainer. It’s a few hundred dollars cheaper than Roborock.
- Excellent self emptying design: The N8 Pro’s dock emptied the trash consistently in many tests.
- Still fit to clean up debris: The N8 Pro+ is above average when picking up surface debris although with worse results.
- Best obstacle avoidance: This robot has a TrueDetect 3D sensor from Ecovac, which makes it the best choice in avoiding obstructions such as wires.
Verdict: Roborock S7 is the most expensive but better performing robot
Even with its high price, Roborock S7 is the better choice between the two If you prioritize the performance of vacuuming and mopping.
I’ve run many tests, and the S7 consistently outperforms the N8 Pro+ in cleaning and wiping tests.
But the biggest downside It is the most expensive.
The Ecovacs N8 Pro+ is still above average (at least) for surface debris but lags behind in cleaning built-in dirt.
And while it’s somewhat more efficient and you can finish your run faster, the S7 captured more with each swipe.
Apart from Avoid high-end drawbacks and lower costThe Roborock outperforms the Ecovacs in most tests and is one of the best performing robot vacuums overall.