If you’ve ever wished your floors could just clean themselves, you’re not alone. In 2025, robot vacuums have come a long way. They’re quieter, smarter, and more hands-off than ever. But with so many options, it’s hard to know which one is actually worth buying.
Two models that keep popping up in conversations are the iRobot Roomba 505 Combo with AutoWash Dock and the Roborock Q Revo S. Both are hybrid vacuums that can also mop, and both come with automatic cleaning docks. But beyond that, they each have different strengths—and the best one for you depends on your home, your habits, and what you expect from a cleaning robot.
After reading several user reviews, watching expert opinions, and breaking down the specs, here’s a real-world comparison of the two that keeps it simple and honest.
How Well Do They Clean?
Let’s start with the basics: vacuuming and mopping.
The Roomba 505 Combo does a solid job picking up everyday dirt like dust, crumbs, and pet hair. It works well on hard floors and low carpets. It also comes with a mop feature, but it’s a basic one. Think of it as a damp cloth dragging behind the robot—it helps with light cleaning, but it won’t scrub up dried spills or sticky spots.
The Roborock Q Revo S is built for heavier cleaning. It has much stronger suction (7000Pa, to be exact) and can clean deeper into carpets. Its mop is also different—it uses two rotating pads that apply pressure and actually scrub the floor. That means it’s better for messes like muddy footprints, food stains, or anything that needs more than just a wipe.
Bottom line? Both vacuums clean well, but they’re designed for different types of mess. Roomba is great for everyday maintenance. Roborock is better for more demanding cleaning jobs.
How Much Work Do They Save You?
One of the best things about modern robot vacuums is how little attention they need. Both of these models are made to be as hands-off as possible.
The Roomba 505 Combo has an AutoWash Dock that rinses the mop pad and empties the dustbin on its own. That’s already a big time-saver. You still have to fill up the clean water tank and do a little maintenance now and then, but overall, it makes life easier.
The Roborock Q Revo S takes things further. Its dock doesn’t just rinse the mop—it also washes and dries the mop pads, refills the water tank, and empties the dustbin. Some users say they go several weeks without needing to touch the vacuum at all. The drying feature is especially nice if you’re worried about moldy smells or leftover moisture.
So, while both save you time, the Roborock gives you a bit more freedom if you want to truly “set it and forget it.”
What About Smart Features and Controls?
Both models can map your home, avoid obstacles, and be controlled from your phone or a smart speaker like Alexa or Google Assistant.
The Roomba 505 Combo uses iRobot OS, which is known for being simple and user-friendly. It’s great if you want something that just works without having to adjust too many settings.
The Roborock Q Revo S, on the other hand, offers more detailed control. You can customize cleaning for each room—changing suction strength, mop pressure, and cleaning schedules. It also recognizes carpets and automatically lifts the mop when crossing them, which is handy if you have mixed floor types.
If you like to tinker or want full control over your cleaning schedule, Roborock offers more. But if you prefer something you can just set up and trust to do the job, Roomba may be easier to live with.
Design, Size, and Build Quality
Both robots are well built and look great in a modern home. The Roomba 505 Combo is a bit smaller and lower to the ground, which helps it get under furniture more easily. Its dock is also more compact, which is helpful if you’re short on space.
The Roborock Q Revo S is taller and its dock is larger, but for good reason—it hides a water tank, mop drying system, and a bigger dust bag. Everything feels solid and thoughtfully designed.
The choice here mostly depends on how much space you have and what you prefer: smaller and more discreet, or slightly bigger but more fully featured.
How Much Do They Cost?
- The Roomba 505 Combo usually costs between $500 and $600. That puts it in the mid-range for robot vacuums. It’s a good price for what it offers—solid vacuuming, light mopping, and a semi-automated dock.
- The Roborock Q Revo S is priced higher, between $800 and $950. You’re paying for stronger suction, real scrubbing mops, longer battery life, and a more advanced dock that handles more tasks for you.
If budget is a big factor, the Roomba gives you more than enough for most homes. If you want the best experience with the least effort, the Roborock’s higher price brings extra convenience.
Which One Fits You Best?
Both the Roomba 505 Combo and the Roborock Q Revo S are excellent robot vacuums in 2025. Neither is “better” for everyone—they just serve different kinds of users.In my opinions;
Choose the Roomba 505 Combo if:
- You mostly have hard floors or light messes.
- You want a compact, simple machine.
- You’re okay with light mopping.
- You’re looking to stay under $600.
Choose the Roborock Q Revo S if:
- You want stronger suction and deep cleaning.
- You have pets, kids, or more floor mess to deal with.
- You prefer full automation, including mop drying and water refills.
- You’re willing to pay more for more convenience.
Quick Side-by-Side Comparison
Feature | Roomba 505 Combo | Roborock Q Revo S |
Vacuum Strength | Moderate | Very strong (7000Pa) |
Mopping Style | Damp cloth swipe | Dual spinning mop pads |
Docking System | Rinse mop + empty bin | Wash + dry mop, water refill, empty bin |
App Features | Simple and user-friendly | More advanced room-by-room control |
Size & Design | Compact, fits tight spaces | Larger, hides features neatly |
Battery Life | Around 140 minutes | Around 180 minutes |
Price Range | $500–$600 | $800–$950 |
Best For | Light daily cleaning | Full automation + deeper cleaning |