Although at Fstoppers we tend to focus more on photography-related products, we occasionally feature devices and technology that are outside of our normal focus. The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is one of the most incredible gadgets I’ve ever used and I wanted to make a video about it.
Why is this on Fstoppers?
Every time I make a video or write an article about something that interests me that isn’t directly related to photography, we are inundated with general comments that it has nothing to do with photography. Ironically, this “independent” content is almost always the most popular content we create each year. The video I made about the Roborock S7 last year was one of the most viewed videos we made in the last 12 months. Over the years I’ve been content to give my father a car as a gift. I’ve reviewed soundbars, smartwatches, and headphones, and each time they’re met with angry commenters, but they get 10x to 100x more engagement than our “related” content. So basically I want to create content that I’m personally interested in and I want to create content that gets views. That’s why this content is on Fstoppers. Don’t worry, Fstoppers is still 99% about photography. If you are not interested in robot vacuums, then you need read no further.
What is it?
Last year’s Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra and the brand new S8 Pro Ultra are the most advanced robot vacuums/mops on the market. Both robots have the ability to automatically vacuum and mop floors. They navigate obstacles, accurately map your home, and clean your floors with minimal intervention. They come with a companion app that lets you set no-go zones, schedule cleanings, and review maintenance needs.
I’ve owned the older S7 for about a year now and it’s one of the most reliable devices I own. Every day I wake up to a fully vacuumed and mopped house and all I have to do is empty the dirty water tank and refill the fresh water tank every 3 or 4 days.
The new S8 has an updated design, a better vacuum system with dual rollers, an updated mopping system, and an integrated wipe-dryer that prevents mold and other germs from building up on the mopping pad. While these upgrades are great, I didn’t find any of them significant enough to justify an upgrade to the S8 if you already own the S7.
Diploma
If you want the absolute top-of-the-line robot in 2023, the Roborock S8 is an incredible product, but last year’s S7 is still amazing and is significantly discounted throughout the year.
If you are interested in my experience with these vacuum cleaners, watch the video above.
