Which robot vacuum cleaner is the most intelligent?

ABECCA CADDY REPLIES: Although there’s still a way to go before robot vacuums make regular vacuums obsolete, they’re getting smarter with every update.

If we were to get the best of the bunch to take an IQ test, we imagine Neato’s Botvac D7 Connected ($1,299, amazon.com.au) would come out on top. It’s just been given additional smarts, including Multiple Floor Plan Mapping, so it can remember the layout for cleaning upstairs as well as its usual floor. You can also set no-go areas, which is handy if there’s a piece of furniture you’re particularly precious about.

The iRobot Roomba 980 ($1,199, shop.irobot.com.au) is also a firm favourite. It may not provide a clean that rivals the Neato range, but it’s great at handling navigation. For something different, try the Vorwerk Kobold VR200 ($1,499, kobold.vorwerk.com.au). Although its cleaning and navigation smarts don’t quite rival the others, it’s the most stylish.

Remember that as smart as these robot vacs are, they’re still learning. So move cables and shoelaces out of the way, create specific floor maps and take the time to program your new robot servant to best suit your home.