Summary of the Dreame X50 Ultra Robot Vacuum Review by CNET
CNET’s exploration of robot vacuums reveals that while no model has effectively tackled multi-level cleaning without human intervention, the Dreame X50 Ultra sets a high bar at a premium price point of $1,699 (currently on sale for $1,360). Despite numerous models available on the market, no other robot vacuum currently offers the same range of capabilities for less than $1,000. The primary purpose of a robot vacuum is to eliminate the need for manual cleaning, but this isn’t always the case for households with unique challenges, like the author’s "Ikea chair challenge," which frequently traps many robotic vacuums. With pets, children, and a multitude of debris in their home, the author—a product development design engineer—found the Dreame X50 Ultra addressed these issues effectively, earning its title as CNET’s top pick for handling obstacles and pet hair.
During real-world testing, the Dreame X50 Ultra showed remarkable performance. The vacuum began with a thorough deep-clean cycle, followed by a mopping run. By setting up the app to indicate the presence of pets, the robot efficiently emptied its dustbin multiple times during the cleaning cycle. Notably, it deftly navigated its environment, raising its mops while transitioning between carpet and hard flooring. The entire cleaning process took around 123 minutes, during which the Dreame X50 tackled muddy paw prints with ease, demonstrating its effective mopping capabilities. The machine’s object avoidance technology allowed it to maneuver around various household objects—shoes, cords, and pets—including the author’s two dogs—without incident.
One of the standout features of the Dreame X50 is its tangle-free roller design, which proved advantageous in a comparative test against the author’s older Roborock Q5. While the Roborock became clogged with hair during the cleaning of a large area rug, the Dreame X50’s roller remained clean. This performance was particularly impressive during the author’s "Great Pyrenees challenge," indicating the vacuum’s proficiency in handling pet hair, a common concern for pet owners. The family quickly adapted to having the vacuum in the home, finding it both quirky and helpful as it maneuvered around obstacles, including the notoriously tricky Ikea chair base that defeated many previous models.
The specs of the Dreame X50 Ultra highlight its advanced capabilities, priced at approximately $1,699. It includes features like a tangle-free roller, climbing arms, a navigation turret, and a mop cleaning base. Key functionalities encompass Wi-Fi connectivity, quick mapping, and real-time live views that users can access through its app. Although the vacuum’s cleaning time is less efficient compared to some competitors, its combination of vacuuming and mopping functionalities caters specifically to the needs of pet owners and households navigating various obstacles.
In terms of user experience, the Dreame X50 Ultra excels in features geared towards advanced navigation and mopping capabilities. However, it may not deliver the best performance exclusively for vacuuming, particularly on carpets. The software can occasionally exhibit quirks, adding to its learning curve. While the price tag of $1,699 marks it as a luxury item, the unique features—such as the ability to climb objects—present a worthwhile investment for some users, especially those who prioritize technology in their cleaning solutions.
For prospective buyers, CNET suggests considering alternatives if raw vacuuming power or budget constraints are more pressing concerns. The Ecovacs Deebot T30S and the iRobot Roomba Combo J7 Plus stand out as more affordable options that performed better in tests focused strictly on carpet cleaning and pet hair removal. The Deebot, priced at $1,400, includes a stick vacuum, while the Roomba is available for around $600. It’s essential to note that while these competitors might outperform in specific areas, the Dreame X50 Ultra is one of the few models capable of navigating unique obstacles in everyday environments, reinforcing its position as a specialized cleaning device worth considering.
