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Rabu, 30 Juni 2021

Synology DSM 7.0: All the new features you need to know

The latest version of DiskStation Manager is here, and you should install it right now.

Synology makes the best NAS enclosures you can buy today, and the brand's main differentiator is the software. DiskStation Manager (DSM) has powerful features that let you easily back up data, host your own mail, office, and VPN server, and so much more.

DiskStation Manager 6.0 launched back in 2016, and while the software picked up a lot of updates in the last four years, the core features have remained unchanged for the most part. That's why it's exciting to see that Synology is now rolling out the stable version of DiskStation Manager 7.0. DSM 7.0 brings a ton of new features, including a unified photo management service, fresh user interface, better system monitoring tools, new sharing and collaboration features, and more.

Here's everything you need to know about all the new features in DiskStation Manager 7.0, what NAS enclosures are eligible for the beta, and how you can install DSM 7.0 on your NAS right now.

Synology DiskStation DS220+

Everything you need

The DS220+ is a standout NAS that delivers everything you're looking for in a home server. The robust hardware means it is a great Plex server, it holds up to 32TB of storage, and has all the latest features that DSM has to offer.

What are the new features in DSM 7.0?

DSM 7.0 comes with redesigned storage management features that make it easier than ever to configure storage volumes and switch out hard drives. You can now see just how much data every individual DSM package is using, identify issues with any drives in the storage pool, and there are welcome enhancements to SSD caching.

Synology Photos is an interesting new addition that merges the Moments service with Photo Station, with the package now being the default photo management service on DSM. The service relies on AI to automatically sort and categorize images into albums, and it offers a seamless way to back up photos from all the phones connected on your home network to your NAS.

Active Insight is a centralized dashboard that lets you control all Synology NAS enclosures registered under the same account, so if you remotely manage a NAS, the feature definitely comes in handy. Synology Drive is getting an admin console that monitor file transfers, usage trends, and much more. And there's Hybrid Share, a useful tool for small businesses that hooks into Synology's C2 cloud service and backs up data, making it accessible across different locations.

There are also exciting changes around file sharing, security, and virtualization. The detailed release notes list all the new additions in DSM 7.0:

Storage

  • A new revision of Storage Manager:
    • Added visuals of Synology NAS models with their drive slots, expansion units, and built-in M.2 slots to help users view drive status.
    • Enhanced usability with a clearer display of the relationship between storage pools, volumes, and SSD caches.
    • Enhanced the setup process of Hot Spare and Data Scrubbing.
    • Added a feature to guide users through configuring newly inserted drives.
    • New features of storage pools, volumes, and drives:
    • Supports performing different tasks on different storage pools simultaneously.
    • Supports updating the firmware for Synology drives.
    • Enhanced the access performance of RAID 6 by 80% on Broadwell (FS1018, SA3400, RS1619xs+, DS3018xs) and Grantley (FS3017) CPUs.
    • Enhanced the access performance of degraded RAID 6 by 70%.
    • Added display of the storage usage of each category item on Btrfs volumes.
    • Added a new Fast Repair mechanism to reduce the time needed for RAID repair based on storage usage and thus reduce the time of RAID degradation.
    • Added the ability to replace a drive in a healthy storage pool with an unused one without interrupting services or causing storage pool degradation.
    • Added the ability to automatically replace Critical or Failing drives in protected storage pools with Hot Spare.
    • Added the Auto Repair feature to automatically run a RAID repair when a malfunctioned drive is replaced with a healthy one in the same drive slot.
    • Added the ability to eject a storage pool on an expansion unit to ensure the safe removal of drives without interrupting system services.
    • Added the ability to mount storage pools from drives that are inserted after the device has been powered on without interrupting system services.
    • Added support for Western Digital Device Analytics (WDDA) health analytics service for compatible WD Purple, Red, and Red Pro drives.
  • New features of SSD Cache:
    • Added the ability to create and remove SSD caches without interrupting system services.
    • Added the new SSD Cache Advisor to monitor I/O accesses and provide more accurate capacity recommendations.
    • Added the ability to pin all Btrfs metadata to SSD caches to enhance the performance of accessing small files and shorten the response time when accessing files regularly.
    • Added the ability to activate automatic protection on SSD read-write caches with multi-drive fault tolerance.
    • Added support for the quick write-back mechanism, delivering a 30% faster synchronization from SSD caches to HDDs when automatic protection is activated.

Resource Monitor

  • Revamped the display of recorded performance metrics with a finer granularity of data points and the ability to focus on certain time points.
  • Enhanced monitoring transparency of system services by separating larger, unrelated processes.
  • Added the ability to manage currently accessed files and their connected users to better handle locked files.

File System/File Services

  • Supports enabling/disabling file compression for shared folders created on DSM 7.0.
  • Enhanced file compression ratio and added display for the current ratio for each shared folder.
  • Added support for cross-protocol locking between SMB and AFP.
  • Supports accessing encrypted shared folders via NFS.
  • Enhanced Btrfs performance and lowered I/O latency.
  • Modularized the SMB file service into a package.
  • Allows users to enable/disable SMB transfer logs for permission changes, providing more flexible transfer logs.
  • Enhanced the encryption performance by up to 10% on certain models with the x86 platform.

User Management

  • Enhanced the password policy. Passwords must exclude username and description, include both upper-case and lower-case letters as well as numerical digits. The minimum password length is 8 characters.
  • Added the ability to delegate predefined administrator roles to non-administrator user accounts and allow them to manage certain services and system settings, offering more flexible permission management.
  • Added the ability to require imported users to change their passwords after their initial DSM logins.
  • Added the ability to assign user accounts from import lists to specific groups.

Domain/LDAP Integration

  • Enhanced LDAP client authentication performance by reducing the number of queries sent with a caching mechanism.
  • The following services and packages now support UPN logins: Synology Assistant, Hyper Backup, Synology Mail Server, Synology Calendar, and Shared Folder Sync.
  • Enhanced domain database synchronization performance by syncing only altered data.

Security

  • Added the ability to block USB and console ports.
  • Enhanced QuickConnect connection process to strengthen security.
  • Provides only TLS 1.3 support for the Modern Compatibility option for TLS/SSL profile level.
  • Added the ability to set 2-factor authentication as mandatory for specific users or groups.

User Experience

  • Enhanced user experience for DSM first-time installation and Synology Account related service setup (e.g. QuickConnect).
  • Added information and usage tips about security, notification, and other recommended settings in DSM Help.
  • Added the ability to back up DSM system configuration to a connected Synology Account.
  • Added support for application webhook integration to send system notifications to Synology Chat and other third-party applications.
  • Added severity levels to notifications for better categorization of events.
  • Enhanced user interface responsiveness to launch installed packages and services faster.
  • Enhanced login performance when connecting from external networks.
  • Enhanced user experience for package update processes by displaying the update status with package icons on the DSM desktop.
  • Resetting the passwords of all user accounts in the administrators group by pressing the RESET button on Synology NAS for 4 seconds.
  • Enhanced Control Panel usability by reorganizing related functionality together:
    • Added a new Synology Account tab to consolidate future services provided through Synology Account.
    • Consolidated Domain/LDAP options to be configured in a new unified wizard.
    • Consolidated QuickConnect settings into the External Access tab.
    • Consolidated User and Groups settings.
    • Consolidated Theme and Application Portal options into Login Portal tab.
    • Consolidated email notification options into Notification > Email tab.
    • Consolidated WS-Discovery into File Services > SMB.
    • Consolidated Network > DSM Settings into Login Portal > Web Services.
    • Relocated the SMB Server Signing option to File Services > SMB > Advanced Settings.
    • Moved Shared Folder Sync into the File Services tab.
    • Moved the Enforce 2-factor authentication option into the Security tab.
    • Modularized DHCP Server into a package.

What NAS enclosures are eligible for DSM 7.0?

Synology has shared the full list of NAS enclosures that can install the DSM 7.0 stable version. Most NAS enclosures released within the last seven years — from the DiskStation DS220j to the 2013 DS213j — are eligible to install the latest version of the operating system. These are the Synology NAS enclosures that can install the DSM 7.0 right now:

21-series:

  • DS1621+
  • RS1221+
  • DS1821+
  • RS2421RP+
  • RS2421+
  • RS1221RP+
  • RS2821RP+

20-series:

  • DS120j
  • DS220j
  • DS220+
  • DS420j
  • DS420+
  • DS620slim
  • DS720+
  • DS920+
  • DS1520+
  • RS820+
  • RS820RP+

19-series:

  • DS119j
  • DS419slim
  • DS1019+
  • DS1819+
  • DS2419+
  • DS2419+II
  • RS819
  • RS1219+

18-series:

  • DS118
  • DS218j
  • DS218play
  • DS218
  • DS218+
  • DS418j
  • DS418play
  • DS418
  • DS718+
  • DS918+
  • DS1618+
  • RS818+
  • RS818RP+
  • RS2418+
  • RS2418RP+
  • RS2818RP+

17-series:

  • DS1517
  • DS1517+
  • DS1817
  • DS1817+
  • RS217

16-series:

  • DS116
  • DS216j
  • DS216se
  • DS216
  • DS216play
  • DS216+
  • DS216+II
  • DS416j
  • DS416
  • DS416slim
  • DS416play
  • DS716+
  • DS716+II
  • DS916+
  • RS816
  • RS2416+
  • RS2416RP+

15-series:

  • DS115j
  • DS115
  • DS215j
  • DS215+
  • DS415+
  • DS415play
  • DS715
  • DS1515
  • DS1515+
  • DS1815+
  • DS2415+
  • RS815
  • RS815+
  • RS815RP+

14-series:

  • DS114
  • DS214
  • DS214se
  • DS214+
  • DS214play
  • DS414j
  • DS414slim
  • DS414
  • RS214
  • RS814
  • RS814+
  • RS814RP+
  • RS2414+
  • RS2414RP+

13-series:

  • DS213j
  • DS713+
  • DS1513+
  • DS1813+
  • DS2413+

Note that the full list of eligible models includes Synology's business-focused enclosures. These models aren't getting the DSM 7.0 build just yet, so if you're running a RackStation or a DiskStation model that's targeted at businesses — like the DS1621xs+ — you will have to wait a little while. Here's the list of all NAS enclosures that are eligible for DSM 7.0:

21-series:

  • DS1621+
  • DS1621xs+
  • RS1221+
  • DS1821+
  • RS2421RP+
  • RS2421+
  • RS1221RP+
  • RS2821RP+

20-series:

  • DS120j
  • DS220j
  • DS220+
  • DS420j
  • DS420+
  • DS620slim
  • DS720+
  • DS920+
  • DS1520+
  • FS6400
  • FS3600
  • SA3400
  • SA3600
  • RS820RP+
  • FS3400
  • RS820+
  • SA3200D

19-series:

  • DS119j
  • DS419slim
  • DS1019+
  • DS1819+
  • DS2419+
  • RS819
  • RS1219+
  • RS1619xs+

18-series:

  • DS118
  • DS218j
  • DS218play
  • DS218
  • DS218+
  • DS418j
  • DS418
  • DS418play
  • DS718+
  • DS918+
  • DS1618+
  • DS3018xs
  • FS1018
  • RS818+
  • RS818RP+
  • RS2418+
  • RS2418RP+
  • RS2818RP+
  • RS3618xs

17-series:

  • DS1517
  • DS1517+
  • DS1817
  • DS1817+
  • DS3617xs
  • FS2017
  • FS3017
  • RS217
  • RS3617xs
  • RS3617xs+
  • RS3617RPxs
  • RS4017xs+
  • RS18017xs+

16-series:

  • DS116
  • DS216j
  • DS216se
  • DS216
  • DS216play
  • DS216+
  • DS216+II
  • DS416j
  • DS416
  • DS416slim
  • DS416play
  • DS716+
  • DS716+II
  • DS916+
  • RS816
  • RS2416+
  • RS2416RP+
  • RS18016xs+

15-series:

  • DS115j
  • DS115
  • DS215j
  • DS215+
  • DS415+
  • DS415play
  • DS715
  • DS1515
  • DS1515+
  • DS1815+
  • DS2015xs
  • DS2415+
  • DS3615xs
  • RS815
  • RS815+
  • RS815RP+
  • RC18015xs+

14-series:

  • DS114
  • DS214
  • DS214se
  • DS214+
  • DS214play
  • DS414j
  • DS414slim
  • DS414
  • RS214
  • RS814
  • RS814+
  • RS814RP+
  • RS2414+
  • RS2414RP+
  • RS3614xs
  • RS3614xs+
  • RS3614RPxs

13-series:

  • DS213j
  • DS713+
  • DS1513+
  • DS1813+
  • DS2413+
  • RS3413xs+
  • RS10613xs+

Others:

  • VirtualDSM

How to install DSM 7.0 on your NAS

Before you install DSM 7.0, there are a few points to consider. There's no way to downgrade to DSM 6.2 following the switch, so make sure you're ready to take the plunge. To install DSM 7.0, you'll have to make sure that your NAS is currently running DSM 6.2 or above. Head to Control Panel > Update & Restore to see if your NAS is on DSM 6.2, and install any updates available.

DSM 7.0 is rolling out as a stable build, so it should be available as an OTA update for your NAS. But if it isn't available on your enclosure just yet, you can easily install it manually. Here's how you can install the stable version of DSM 7.0 on your NAS:

  1. Go to the Synology Download Center to download the DSM 7.0 package for your NAS.
  2. In the Select product type menu, select NAS.
  3. Enter your NAS model name or scroll down the list to locate it.
  4. You should see all the OS packages for your NAS. To see the DSM 7.0 build, you will have to change the OS Version (it's located on the right of the page) from the default 6.2 series to 7.0 series.
  5. You should now see the DSM 7.0 RC build package show up. Hit the Download button to start the download. The build will save as a .pat file.
  6. Once the build is downloaded, you'll have to head over to your NAS to initiate the update. Within DSM 6.2, navigate to Control Panel.
  7. Choose Update and Restore within the System section.
  8. Select Manual DSM Update.
  9. You can use the Browse button to locate the DSM 7.0 build that you downloaded earlier. This will be the .pat file.
  10. Once you've found the file, hit OK to start updating your NAS to DSM 7.0.

It should take anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes to install DSM 7.0. The new visual design combined with exciting new features like Photos and Active Insight make DSM 7.0 a noteworthy update, and if you've been waiting to install the build on your NAS, now is the time to do so.

The ideal NAS

Synology DiskStation DS220+

Everything you need in a NAS

The DS220+ is a standout NAS that delivers everything you're looking for in a home server. The robust hardware means it is a great Plex server, it holds up to 32TB of storage, and has all the latest features that DSM has to offer.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic leak shows off popular design feature

Alongside the Galaxy Watch 4 Active, Samsung might be releasing a Galaxy Watch 4 Classic.

What you need to know

  • New leaks purport to show the upcoming Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic.
  • The phone is rumored to be launching alongside the Galaxy Watch 4 Active.
  • Both are to make an appearance at Unpacked later this summer.

Samsung has been working on the new Galaxy Watch 4, as it's presumed to be called, and leaked renders from Android Headlines give us a look at one of the models.

Aside from the Galaxy Watch 4 Active, which might actually just be the regular Galaxy Watch 4, the company is launching a more conventional Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic. Both will run the new One UI-based Wear experience co-developed by Google, but the Classic model would be aimed at a more mainstream audience than the fitness-focused Active model.

Android Headlines reports that the Galaxy Watch 4 Classic will come in three sizes and three colors. A 42mm size, a 44mm size, and a 46mm size will offer variety to customers who may be enthralled by its sleek design and the presence of a rotating bezel. As for colors, the Watch 4 Classic will come in white, gray, and black.

Samsung will reportedly offer this in either stainless steel and aluminum models. For protection, the company will cover these with Gorilla Glass DX or DX+ for the steel or aluminum models, respectively. It'll also be 5ATM rated for shower and pool use, much like the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 and features MIL-STD-810G certification.

Samsung is expected to announce the new Galaxy Watch 4 models at an Unpacked event this August, where they will be the first to run the new Wear OS update. It is also predicted to be releasing the Galaxy Z Flip 3 5G, the Galaxy Z Fold 3, and the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE at the same launch event.

Still Good

Samsung Galaxy Watch 3

$250 at Amazon $250 at Best Buy $250 at Walmart

A well balanced option

So you might not be getting the new Wear with this older watch, but it's a good-looking and durable smartwatch that integrates well with your Samsung phone and tablet.

RCS gains momentum, AT&T makes Google Messages the default on Android

Google chalks up another win for RCS adoption thanks to AT&T.

What you need to know

  • Google Messages will be the default messaging app on AT&T Android smartphones.
  • This is likely to fuel the use of RCS messaging on Android after a slow initial rollout.
  • The announcement comes months after T-Mobile pledged to make Google Messages the default.

Google's push for RCS continues as AT&T commits to making Google Messages the default messaging app on its Android smartphones.

David Christopher, the executive vice president and general manager of AT&T Mobility, says that the company looks forward to "working closely with Google to extend these benefits to even more of our customers as they enjoy richer conversations with others around the world."

The announcement comes months after T-Mobile announced its own partnership with Google, including offering more of the best Android phones on its network and making Google Messages the default.

Samsung also pushes for RCS on its devices and makes Google Messages a more native experience on its Galaxy S21 family of smartphones.

The announcement makes Verizon, the largest U.S. carrier, the only holdout.

U.S. carriers have previously pushed for RCS adoption but went about it separately from Google after it spearheaded the initiative by rolling it out on Google Messages. AT&T had its own version of RCS that was only available on select devices, but the carriers lacked interoperability between their disparate implementations. For a while, it seemed RCS would go nowhere because the carriers wanted to do it on their own.

At one point, things seemed to look up as the carriers created a joint initiative away from Google to create their own cross-carrier RCS messaging app. Unfortunately, nothing came of it, and the initiative was recently abandoned as Google continued to push for RCS adoption through its Google Messages app.

At the time, Verizon stated that the carriers "remain committed to enhancing the messaging experience for customers including growing the availability of RCS." This suggests that the company may also be open to partnering with Google, although the company has yet to respond when asked.

With AT&T's push, more Android users will have access to some of its best features like reactions, higher-quality images, and end-to-end encryption.

Of course, the next big hurdle will be to get iPhones to adopt the standard and move away from SMS.

Next-level texting

Google Messages

Free at Google Play

The best of RCS

Google Messages takes SMS to the next level with RCS Chat messaging. It includes typing indicators, reactions, high-quality media, and end-to-end encryption to keep your messages safe from prying eyes.

T-Mobile's REVVL V+ brings 5G and a big battery for under $200

5G phones are still rare in the sub-$200 markets, but phones like this will help encourage uptake.

What you need to know

  • T-Mobile today launched the REVVL V 5G+, its cheapest 5G phone under its homegrown REVVL band.
  • The company bills it as the cheapest 5G phone in the U.S.
  • It's available for $199.99 outright or $8.34 for a 24-month plan.

T-Mobile is launching a cheap Android phone under its REVVL brand with the new REVVL V 5G +. Billed as "the most affordable 5G smartphone ever in the U.S.", this phone is a T-Mobile and Metro by T-Mobile exclusive, launching on July 12.

You're not going to confuse this for one of the best smartphones, but the specs aren't terrible for the price you pay. The phone has a 6.82-inch HD+ LCD with face unlock and fingerprint sensor for biometrics. There's a triple camera setup with the standard 16MP main and a pair of 5MP and 2MP secondary cameras. For selfies and video calls, you'll find a 16MP front-facing camera. You'll find 64GB of storage paired with 4GB of RAM inside, and there's a long-lasting 5,000mAh battery with an 18W fast charger for when the battery dies. All of this is powered by a MediaTek Dimensity 700 and Android 11. It's not the best phone, but you could do worse.

Mike Sievert, CEO of T-Mobile, said:

When we say we're just getting started, we mean it. Just three months after we launched the Great 5G Upgrade, we continue to tear down the barriers standing between you and a great 5G experience. REVVL smartphones have always been about giving people a no-compromises experience: great features at a great price. And REVVL V+ 5G sets a new bar for the industry.

T-Mobile is selling this from July 12 in Metro stores and at T-Mobile stores from July 23. You'll be able to buy this for $199.99 outright or from $8.34 a month with a 24-month plan. If you do want something better though, the OnePlus Nord N200 5G is a sligthly better phone for under $250.

Google is moving away from APKs in the Play Store this August

That'll make it harder for third-party app stores to attract content.

What you need to know

  • Google seems to want to move away from Android app formatted as APKs in the Play Store.
  • It's now started mandating that new apps entering the store from August should use its new AAB format.
  • The move is likely to harm third-party app stores as Google remains the only store that uses the AAB format.

Google this week announced that it would be mandating the adoption of the Android App Bundle (AAB) over Android Packages (APKs) for new apps submitted from August 2021. The company had previously introduced the Android App Bundle as a new way of formatting apps for publication to the Play Store in 2018. It had seen adoption from developers as high-profile as Netflix and Adobe.

Android App Bundles offered benefits for users in the form of smaller downloads. To put it simply, an APK install would have to be compatible with all supported device configurations and languages, while an AAB-packaged app would download only what was needed for your device and language combination. For developers, Google pitches them as more efficient and resulting in fewer uninstalls from users. They are also more secure via Google's Play App Signing, preventing apps from being compromised.

While developers had the option to choose between APKs and AABs in the past, new apps submitted to the Play Store won't have that option anymore. Existing apps are exempt, though the use of the word "currently" means that Google is likely to change this requirement in the future.

As always, the issue for developers is that if they want to target the Amazon App Store for Fire tablets and Windows 11 PCs, Huawei's AppGallery for HarmonyOS, and the Google Play Store, they'll have to have completely separate code bases for each platform, and only Google's benefits from these changes. Developers already face hurdles because each app store has its own set of common APIs, and this may cause even more friction that may discourage some from supporting third-party app stores.

Have a flashing white PS4 controller? Here's how to fix it.

When your PlayStation or peripherals do things you've never seen before, it's understandable to get worried. The DualShock controller light doesn't usually flash white. There are two main reasons you might see the flashing white light on your DualShock controller: either the battery is dying, or the controller failed to connect to your PlayStation console. Both these things are fixable. We just need to troubleshoot the problems so you can get back to enjoying your games with the best PS4 controllers available. Here's how to get started.

Products used in this guide

  • AmazonBasics PlayStation 4 Controller Charging Cable
  • DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

Check your USB cable

USB cables can be fragile. One of the most straightforward problems to fix is replacing your old USB charging cord and replacing it with shiny new ones. Just some basic USB charging cables work well with the DualShock controller and are worth picking up to make sure your cable isn't stopping your controller from charging.

  1. Once the replacements have arrived, plug the USB into the PlayStation 4.
  2. Plug your USB into the DualShock controller.
  3. If the light changes to blue or orange, the issue was the cable.

Reset your console

The old "turn it off and back on again" trick works more times than you think! Sometimes, all that's needed is a simple restart on the PlayStation 4.

  1. Power off your PlayStation by holding down the power button for 10 seconds.
  2. Remove the power cord from the back of the PlayStation 4.
  3. Wait about 3 minutes.
  4. Plug your power cable back in.

  5. Power on the Playstation 4.
  6. Plug your USB charging cable into the PlayStation 4.
  7. Plug your USB charging cable into the DualShock controller.

  8. Press the PlayStation button on the DualShock controller to turn it on.

Reset the controller

Your controller has its own software, and when that software gets updated, things can get corrupted. Fortunately, you can reset your DualShock controller back to factory default.

  1. Turn your controller over to find the reset button on the back by the top right screw.

  2. Using an unfolded paperclip, or a sim card opener from your phone push the button inside of the hole.
  3. Hold the button down for 5 seconds.
  4. Use steps 6, 7, and 8 in the previous guide above to reconnect your DualShock controller to the PS4.

Start in safe mode

It may be that your PS4 is to blame and not the controller. You can do some more troubleshooting in safe mode, including rebuilding your database. Sometimes just going into safe mode to connect your DualShock controller will bypass any issue.

Note: Do not attempt to launch your PS4 in safe mode if your USB ports are not working. After you start your console in safe mode, you need to sync your controller through a USB port. If your USB ports aren't working, you will need to fix them before attempting this step.

  1. Turn off your PS4.
  2. Press and hold the power button until you hear two beeps: one when you first press and another seven seconds later.

    PlayStation safe mode press and hold power

  3. Connect your DualShock 4 controller with the USB cable.

  4. Press the PS button on the center of the controller.

Using a DualShock 4 on PS5

DualShock 4 controllers are compatible with PS5. For the easiest way to connect your controller, simply plug it in via the USB charging cable. Keep in mind that while the DualShock 4 will work on PS5, it's only compatible with PS4 games through backward compatibility. You cannot play PS5 games with a DualShock 4 controller.

That's all it takes

If none of the steps above work, you may have a faulty controller. It happens, especially if your controllers aren't handled with care. My toddler likes to use my controller as a hammer sometimes, and I'm sure that's not good for it. If that's the case, then you may need to return it to the store you bought it from or pick up a new one.

Replacement controller

DualShock 4 Wireless Controller

Get a replacement

If you can't fix the flashing white light issues, you might have to get a new DualShock 4 controller.

Connectivity is king

AmazonBasics PlayStation 4 Controller Charging Cable

$14 at Amazon

Easy connection

This cable is made by Amazon specifically for your PS4 controller hand lets you play and charge, so you're not stuck waiting to recharge your DualShock 4 when you could be playing games.

What is the difference between PUBG New State and PUBG Mobile?

Best answer: A fair amount. Although the core gameplay will be very familiar to PUBG fans, a new map, graphical enhancements, and fresh mechanics differentiate New State's experience enough from its predecessor. A key difference is that New State is being developed by PUBG Studios, the original team behind the first iteration of the game and the first mobile game to be developed by them. While PUBG Mobile was a port by Tencent games, New State represents a true evolution of the popular battle royale and is expected to release this year.

Which game should I play?

Despite New State being touted as the next big thing for the multiplayer phenomenon, players still have a reason to play PUBG Mobile. The free-to-play nature of the title represents a low barrier to entry, as does the option of a lite version for players with less powerful devices.

The game also receives frequent updates. Modes such as the new Traverse-Insectoid mode (available till July 5) allow players to shrink in size and travel through wormholes, while the zombie mode continues to draw in players. The game is also in its 19th season, presenting players with a smooth and accomplished PUBG experience, with many years worth of improvements to the formula.

PUBG New State promises to push the limits of mobile gaming and places players into the year 2051. For seasoned players, this new title may offer something fresh that they haven't seen before. A new futuristic setting of TROI contributes to this, as does the aforementioned fact that PUBG Studios are developing the title, possibly adding a level of polish and optimization that PUBG Mobile cannot achieve.

An 8x8 open world and 100 player rounds are the order of the day, and the title is also free-to-play. Ultimately, New State appears to be a fresh, hardcore expansion of the formula for those looking for the next iteration of the game. PUBG Mobile is the vanilla experience, catering to new and casual players happy with the multiple modes and years of polish.

Has there been a graphical improvement?

Yes. With New State presenting itself as the next evolution of PUBG, it makes sense for graphics to be overhauled. With New State utilizing cutting-edge global illumination technology, players should see a visual improvement over the base game, with the title feeling like a true next-gen experience on mobile.

Is there a difference in the mechanics?

Yes. PUBG Studios have added a ton of new mechanics for players to enjoy. Weapon customization is an exciting new addition, enabling such actions as selecting a fire mode and attaching grenade launchers. Drones and new vehicles are also present, while combat rolls and ballistic shields can offer new possibilities while engaging other players.

Have the controls changed in New State?

Hard to say. Despite the new gameplay additions, news of control changes is currently limited. However, New State will presumably control similarly to PUBG Mobile to avoid alienating long-time fans while making it accessible for new ones. In both games, players can expect to utilize touch controls for navigation and actions such as aiming and firing.

In PUBG Mobile, button customization that suits your playstyle and comfort are available, though it is unclear to what extent this will carry over into New State. In New State, the button layout may differ to incorporate the new mechanics. However, it is safe to assume that most control changes would be due to optimization, with PUBG studios looking to release a dedicated mobile PUBG of the highest quality.

Minimum Requirements

Both New State and PUBG Mobile have separate minimum requirements for them to run sufficiently:

PUBG Mobile:

Minimum Requirements for Android:

  • Memory: 2 GB and above
  • Supported system: Android 5.1.1 or above

Minimum Requirements for IOS:

  • Memory: 1.8 GB and above
  • Supported system: IOS 9.0 or later

PUBG New State:

Minimum Requirements for Android:

  • Memory: 2.5 GB
  • Supported system: Android 6

Minimum Requirements for IOS

  • Memory: 2.5GB
  • Supported system: IOS 10

New State vs Mobile

Whether you're a new or seasoned PUBG player, New State offers enough variation to satisfy all fans of the battle royale franchise and PUBG Mobile fans looking for something new. PUBG Mobile gamers can still benefit from the frequent updates and new modes, while New State boasts exciting features and graphical enhancements.

However, the most tantalizing feature of New State is surely the development of the game, with PUBG studios bringing their expertise to proceedings. No longer will the presence of the game on mobile devices be a port of the base game, but a dedicated mobile PUBG, which should be music to the ears of fans everywhere.

Our pick

PUBG New State

Free at Google Play Store

A true evolution

Boasting next-level visuals and new gameplay features, PUBG New State has the potential to be a game-changer for mobile players. The battle royale will also greatly benefit from having PUBG Studios back at the helm. Pre-registration is underway on Android, with the Apple version available to pre-order soon.

Google Pay can now show digital COVID-19 vaccination cards in the US

You'll be able to show your COVID status with ease if your local healthcare provider supports this new API.

What you need to know

  • Google Pay will now support COVID-19 status cards with an update to the Passes API.
  • Only approved developers from recognized health organizations will be able to take advantage of this.
  • It's also being limited to the U.S. first, though Google notes that it'll be coming to other countries later.

Google today announced support for digital COVID-19 vaccination cards in the U.S. in Google Pay. Today, developers who are affiliated with healthcare organizations or public health authorities will be able to use Google's Passes API to create a digital card that will enable Android users to demonstrate vaccination status or test results.

Accessing a card or pass created with this method is easy, as users will be able to create a home screen shortcut for it and access it in areas with weak internet access.

Google is working on making this secure and private for customers. Your health data is stored on whatever device you save it on. It will not be synced between devices you happen to be signed into, the company says.

Similarly, Google will not be using any data from COVID-19 cards and passes to target ads.

Finally, you'll need to have a password or other security measure protecting this data, and you'll need to enter it to display the vaccination card. Most of the best Android phones come with biometric security, so this shouldn't be too much of an issue as far as speed of access is concerned.

The new Google Pay app remains available in the U.S. and India now, but the older version will be sufficient. Indeed, Google has built Pay into Play Services, allowing users to use many of its features without having access to the full app. Additionally, the company says that installing Google Pay "is not a requirement to access COVID Cards."

As mentioned above, the rollout is beginning today, but Google is reaching out to interested developers to sign on.

It's worth noting that developer uptake may vary in non-U.S. countries with centralized healthcare systems. In the UK, for example, the UK's National Health Service offers two separate apps for viewing the vaccination status of any interested person, while Germany offers the same with CovPass.

Here are the best robot vacuums on the market right now

Using one of the best robot vacuums to help you keep your house clean may be one of the best decisions you can make. Over the past few years, robot vacuums have become much smarter; they last longer and clean better. Options like the Roborock S5 Max, which happens to top the list of our best robot vacuums, lets you control it with just your voice. It can be set to run on a schedule, always vacuums in tidy, back and forth lines, and its sensors help prevent it from bumping into everything.

What are the best robot vacuums you can buy today?

There are a LOT of great robot vacuum models available right now, and picking the right one can be a difficult task. We've done the research, though, and narrowed down all the picks into a concise list of only the top robot vacuum picks.

Our full list is below, but we believe that when you look for a single best overall pick, the Roborock S5 Max is the best robot vacuum on the market today for most people. It offers all the standard features you'd expect to see in a robot vacuum, like scheduling, long-lasting battery life, powerful suction, and more. It can be controlled through an app or using an assistant like Amazon's Alexa. It's a bit more expensive than most others, but the price gets easier to justify once you see what it can do.

If you are looking for something more affordable, we also have some great picks from companies like Roborock, Ecovacs, iLife, Eufy, Neato, and more. These are all well-known brands and offer a ton of great features across various models.

Roborock S5 Max

The best robot vacuum overall

Bottom line: The Roborock S5 Max is a powerful and reliable vacuum that maps your home for efficient cleaning and easily sucks up pet fur. It's a great option for any home.

Category Roborock S5 Max
Suction power 2000 Pa
Cleaning area 2000 ft2 / 186 m2
Floor types Hardfloor and Carpet
Run time Up to 180 min
Dustbin capacity 0.46 liters
Mapping
Mop function
Recharge and resume
No-go zones
Works with app

Pros:

  • Wi-Fi connectivity
  • Alexa, Google Assistant, iRobot HOME app
  • Schedule cleanings
  • Recharge and resume
  • Anti-fall/bump sensors

Cons:

  • Louder than some other vacuums
  • Only comes in one color

There are many things to consider when trying to pick the best robot vacuum, and through our testing, we've discovered the Roborock S5 Max is the top pick for most people. It offers a pretty solid combination of features and cleaning power, and while it's a bit on the more expensive side, it's not the most expensive option.

It's a Wi-Fi-connected model, which enhances all the features and allows you to control it anywhere. You can use the Roborock app to set schedules, define no-go zones, and much more. The vacuum itself has a bunch of sensors built in to help prevent it from running into walls, objects, and falling down staircases.

With schedules, you can customize it to run at specific times on different days or at the same time every single day. It's best to have a bit of consistency, so you can do a double check before the vacuum runs. You'll want to ensure no cords are laying around; the doors are opened or closed as needed, etc. Another awesome thing about this model is that it has an impressive run time of up to 180 minutes per charge. That way, it's more likely to be able to clean everywhere you need it to in one go.

It's a great pick for homes with pets as it uses rubber brushes for picking up debris and fur. It always cleans in an orderly back and forth motion, leaving perfect vacuum lines in your carpet. With its powerful suction, it works perfectly on both hard floors and low to medium-pile carpets.

Best overall

Roborock S5 MAX Robot Vacuum and Mop Cleaner

$550 at Amazon $600 at Newegg

It provides powerful suction, home layout mapping, and sensors to keep it from bumping into things. This vacuum is a great pick for any home.


iLife V3s Pro

The best budget robot vacuum

Bottom line: If you're looking for a quality, budget robot vacuum, you need to look no further than the iLife V3 Pro. It's operated by remote control, has a long run time, and is a reliable little device.

Category iLife V3 Pro
Suction power 600 Pa
Run time Up to 90 min
Dustbin capacity 0.3 liters
Mapping x
Mop function x
Recharge and resume x
Works with app x
Floor types Hardfloor and Carpet

Pros:

  • Inexpensive
  • Runs up to 100 minutes
  • Schedule cleaning times
  • Comes with remote
  • Smart sensors

Cons:

  • Doesn't map rooms
  • No Wi-Fi or voice assistant connectivity
  • No app

Not all of the best robot vacuums come with an expensive price tag, and these days you can actually find some really great options at extremely affordable prices. If budget is a top concern for you, the iLife V3s Pro is one of the best robot vacuums out there at well under two hundred bucks. It's a bit more simplistic than others like the Roborock S5 Max or the Roborock S6, but that doesn't mean it's bad by any means.

In terms of features on the iLife V3s Pro, you still have the ability to schedule it, but instead of being done via an app, you will actually do it all from the included remote. It runs for up to 100 minutes, nearly half an hour longer than our top pick, making it great for larger homes.

There are no fancy features like Wi-Fi connectivity, no-go zones, etc., but there is a full set of sensors to prevent it from running into everything, falling downstairs, and more. This model is purely a vacuum, and it does not include any mopping features. It's perfect for people who are unsure whether or not a robot vacuum is even practical for them and allows you to affordably test out a great robot vacuum without investing much in terms of money.

You don't have to look far around the internet to find many buyers saying great things about this model. Be sure to give it a shot today and see if it's the best robot vacuum for you.

Best budget

ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner

This unit runs for long periods, features a remote, and can clean at specific times. It's also an inexpensive option.


Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI

The best object detection

Bottom line: This is a premium vacuum for anyone looking for the most conveniences and features. It does an excellent job of cleaning floors and can also double as a pet camera.

Category ECOVACS DEEBOT OZMO T8 AIVI
Suction power 2500 Pa
Run time Up to 180 min
Dustbin capacity 0.24 liters
Mapping
Mop function
Recharge and resume
Works with app
Floor types Hardfloor and Carpet

Pros:

  • Smart object detection and avoidance
  • Learns and adapts to your home
  • Runs up to 180 minutes
  • Intuitive app
  • Powerful suction

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • No sliding camera cover

In our Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI review, we discovered this is a phenomenal robot vacuum for anybody willing to pay a little extra for the most conveniences. It features a camera to help it better detect objects in its path and uses advanced AI to learn and adapt to your home. It can even recognize obstacles and then mark them on the app map. For instance, it might tell you it avoided shoes in the hallway or a large cable in your living room.

Object detection isn't perfect, but it's by far the best we've seen in any robot vacuum to date. You can control the vacuum and view the camera feed using the app. That means you can use the T8 AIVI to check on your home when you're on vacation or simply check in with your dog while you're at work. Unfortunately, it doesn't have a sliding camera cover, although when it's docked, the camera is blocked.

Since it has a long run time and provides excellent suction, this intelligent unit will leave a perfect back and forth line in your carpet while truly cleaning it. If you're willing to spend even more, the T8 AIVI is also compatible with an Auto-Empty Station, so you only have to take the debris out to the dumpster about once a month. When coupled with that accessory, this cleaner seriously becomes one of the best robot vacuums for pets since it can handle large gobs of fur without needing you to empty the dustbin.

The app is super easy to use and gives you plenty of controls like setting up cleaning schedules, no-go zones, and even determining how strong the suction is on the vacuum.

Best object detection

ECOVACS Deebot T8 AIVI Robot Vacuum Cleaner

The T8 AIVI can recognize and avoid obstacles using its camera. It has an impressive run time, allows you to set no-go zones from the app, and provides powerful suction.


Roborock S6

The longest-lasting robot vacuum

Bottom line: The Roborock S6 always cleans in tidy, back and forth lines and will always clean every area of your home. You can use the app to set up virtual no-go zones or tell it to clean a specific room in your house. It's one of the very best vacuums on this list.

Category Roborock S6
Suction power 2000 Pa
Run time Up to 180 min
Dustbin capacity 0.48 liters
Mapping
Mop function
Recharge and resume
Works with app
Floor types Hardfloor and Carpet

Pros

  • Runs up to 180 minutes
  • Works with Alexa
  • Controlled with app
  • Has mop mode
  • Tackles large areas

Cons

  • Small dustbin
  • Mop modes don't detect carpets

In our Roborock S6 review, we learned that this vacuum offered the longest battery life while still being an attractive option. When in quiet mode, it can run for up to 180 minutes before needing to recharge. That means it can reach more areas in your home in one go. The dustbin is on the small side, so you'll need to change it out more frequently than you would with some others.

To get started, you can either give a voice command using Amazon Alexa or use the Mi Home app. This unit has different modes to take care of a variety of situations. One of those modes includes mopping. Attach a microfiber towel to the underside, and the unit will spritz a small amount of water as it goes. It's designed to leave your floors relatively dry, so you don't worry about your hardwood flooring getting damaged.

While it can suck up a decent amount of debris and dust, it, unfortunately, can't detect the difference between carpet and floor, so the unit might attempt to mop your carpets. You'll just need to redirect it if it's heading somewhere you don't want it to go.

Best battery life

Roborock S6 Robot Vacuum

It runs up to 180 minutes and can be controlled using Alexa or the Mi Home app. The different modes provide a thorough cleaning.


Neato Botvac D4

Best robot vacuum for cleaning corner spaces

Bottom line: The special D shape of this vacuum allows it to reach further into corners than some other vacuums out there. It has a large dustbin and excellent suction to handle both hard floors and carpets.

Category Neato Botvac D4
Suction power 1400 Pa
Run time Up to 75 min
Dustbin capacity 0.7 liters
Mapping x
Mop function x
Recharge and resume x
Works with app
Floor types Hardfloor and Carpet

Pros:

  • Mapping
  • Can set No-Go lines
  • Anti-bump sensors
  • Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Watch
  • Automatically recharges itself
  • Alerts you to empty bin

Cons:

  • Only runs up to 75 minutes
  • No rotating side brushes

Have you ever walked to a corner of your home and discovered a nasty buildup of dust and hair? The round design of most robot vacuums makes it hard for them to reach these cornered dust piles. Unlike other vacuums, the Neato Robotics D4 has a flat side, which allows it to reach these corners better and suck up neglected debris. Just be aware that it doesn't have side brushes. It employs sensors to help it navigate around objects and furniture.

It isn't the most expensive unit on the market, but the price is mid-range. That's because it offers several advanced features, like mapping. You'll need to take the time to map your home with the device, but once that's done, the vacuum will be able to clean in a more orderly fashion. You can even set boundary lines to prevent the vacuum from entering specific locations.

This vacuum won't run as long as other units as it tops out at 75 minutes. But it will go back to its charging dock on its own and will alert you if the bin gets full. You can control it using the app, Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Watch.

Best for corners

Neato Botvac D4

The special design of Neato Botvacs allows them to vacuum corners more effectively. This one features mapping, and you can even set no-go lines.


Roborock S5

Top pick for those with pets

Bottom line: The Roborock S5 is a perfect fit for any home. It leaves perfect vacuum lines, creates an intelligent map of your home, and can easily be controlled by an app.

Category Roborock S5
Suction power 2000 Pa
Run time Up to 150 min
Dustbin capacity 0.48 liters
Mapping
Mop function
Recharge and resume
Works with app
Floor types Hardfloor and Carpet

Pros:

  • Runs up to 150 minutes
  • Scheduled cleanings via app
  • Mapping
  • Carpet boost
  • Has mop mode
  • Works with Alexa

Cons:

  • Small dustbin
  • Mop doesn't detect carpets

Things are a little different when you're looking for the best Robot Vacuum for pet hair. In addition to having the second-longest battery life on this list, we learned in our Roborock S5 review that this device is great at sucking up fur and allergens. Having 150 minutes of run time means it can reach more areas. Just note that it has a smallish dustbin, so you'll need to change it out frequently for the vacuum to be effective.

The vacuum detects when it's on the hardwood floor or the carpet and increases the sucking power when on the latter. This is a smarter device than others as it can map your home and thus clean your floors in an organized fashion rather than randomly bouncing around. You can even tell it not to enter certain locations.

To help pick up all of the grime, you can even attach a small mop to the vacuum and have it clean your floors more thoroughly. Just be aware that it will try to mop your carpet as well as your hard floors. Should it come across any obstacles or stairs, the sensors will prevent it from hitting anything or falling. You can control it using the Mi Home app or Alexa.

Best for pet hair

Roborock S5

It detects when it's on hard flooring versus carpet and increases suction accordingly. You can set scheduled cleaning times and have it map your home.


Eufy RoboVac 15C Max

Top robot vacuum for homes with stairs

Bottom line: This vacuum-only cleaning device offers powerful suction at a lower cost. It's a great fit for any home since the included sensors allow it to detect drop-off areas like stairs and avoid them easily.

Category Eufy RoboVac 15C Max
Suction power 2000 Pa
Run time Up to 100 min
Dustbin capacity 0.6 liters
Mapping x
Mop function x
Recharge and resume x
Works with app
Floor types Hardfloor and Carpet

Pros:

  • Sensor prevents bumps and drops
  • Handles medium-pile carpets
  • Four modes
  • Works with EufyHome app and voice assistants
  • Runs up to 100 minutes
  • Decently priced
  • Comes with remote

Cons:

  • Doesn't come with boundary strips
  • No mapping

The last thing you want is for your expensive robot vacuum to take a fatal tumble down a flight of stairs. You could always put up a baby gate, but it would just be nicer if you didn't have to worry about it in the first place. The Eufy RoboVac 15C Max features more than 10 infrared sensors to detect both ledges and obstacles to prevent your machine from getting damaged. It can run for up to 100 minutes on a single charge to clean a large area of your home.

You can also set up a cleaning schedule on the EufyHome app so that the vacuum cleans when everyone is out of the house. Since the sensors are in place, you won't have to worry about the device falling anywhere while you're away. If you happen to be out and about and want the vacuum to start cleaning, you simply open the app and choose from four different modes. Since it has built-in Wi-Fi, you can also use voice controls via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It even comes with a remote if you'd prefer to control it that way. It works great on anything from hardwood floors to medium-pile carpets.

This particular vacuum doesn't come with boundary strips, and you cannot set up a no-go zone through the app. This means that you'll need to physically barricade areas that you don't want your vacuum entering. Unfortunately, it doesn't map your home either. However, considering the features it offers and the relatively low price, this is a great vacuum for any multi-level house.

Best for homes with stairs

Eufy RoboVac 15C Max

$170 at Amazon $199 at Walmart

It features 10 infrared sensors to detect ledges or obstacles in its path. It can run up to 100 minutes and works with a voice assistant, app, or remote.

The bot to buy

When looking through the hundreds of different robot vacuums on the market, you might feel overwhelmed trying to decide which is the best fit for you. There are several good options to choose from out there. You'll want to consider the unit's price, dustbin capacity, battery life, suction power, control options, and any extra convenient features it might come with.

Our personal recommendation is the Roborock S5 Max. This is a powerful unit that can suck up anything from dirt to pet hair. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity so that you can control it with the iRobot HOME App, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant from just about anywhere. It can map your home for a more thorough and efficient cleaning experience. You can also set up virtual barriers to prevent it from entering areas you don't want to be disturbed, making it the most appealing option on our list.

More great robot vacuum options

Best for medium-pile carpets

Eufy RoboVac 11S Max

$160 at Amazon

This affordable vacuum can handle anything from hardwood floors to medium-pile carpets. It runs quietly for up to 100 minutes at a time.

Best for high-traffic areas

iRobot Roomba 675

$250 at Amazon $250 at Best Buy

It provides powerful suction, home assistant compatibility, and sensors to keep it from bumping into things. This vacuum is a great pick for any home.

Best splurge

iRobot Roomba i7+

$800 at Amazon $800 at Best Buy

This vacuum comes with a Clean Base, which allows it to empty its dustbin. You can control it using Alexa, Google Assistant, or the iRobot HOME app.

Best value

Ecovacs Deebot N79S

$269 at Amazon

It runs up to 120 minutes on one battery charge. You can control it using the app, Alexa, or Google Assistant. It's great for hard floors and carpets.

What features should you look for in a robot vacuum?

Before you can fully understand which is the best robot vacuum for you and the one you should buy, you must understand all of the features that help set them apart. We've broken down a bunch of the most important things to look for in your decision process and why you need to care about it.

Cleaning

I mean ... duh. The most obvious feature you should be looking at in a robot vacuum cleaner is how it cleans. Specifically the types of floors it can clean like hardwood or carpet or (preferably) both, whether or not it can clean pet hair and whether or not that matters to you, and if it has a mopping function. Some of these features may be essential to your needs, and some may not. The ability to switch between hardwood and carpet, for example, can make or break a purchase if you have a lot of rugs or a large floor area with multiple floor types.

Another essential part of cleaning with a robot vacuum is its ability to get into corners. Most robot vacuums are round, thanks to the original ones being round. It's a tradition that has stuck, but it's not the most practical shape for cleaning square houses if you think about it. These days, most robot vacuums have a variety of brushes and other cleaning tools, though, with at least some designed to sweep up along edges and corners. Keep an eye out for this when evaluating your next purchase because you don't want dirt piling up in places your vacuum can't reach.

Navigation and mapping

If I wanted to run around looking for a stuck robot, I'd just not buy one and do the cleaning myself. I need a robot vacuum that has the right kind of sensors and the smarts to detect its surroundings and adapt accordingly. Depending on where you plan to use your robot vacuum, you want one that uses sensors to avoid drops like falling down the stairs.

Mapping is also essential to a robot's ability to navigate. Usually, advanced mapping causes a bump in the price for robot vacuums, but there's something to be said about the robot's ability to see an entire room and plan the most efficient cleaning route. They usually use a combination of lasers and cameras to map your home, and those are sensors that are different from the ones used for navigation, which is why it usually costs more.

I prefer are the robot vacuums with virtual no-go zones, places you can block the robot from going into. Some robots come with physical borders you can place down, but that means having some unsightly strip somewhere in your house. Virtual no-go zones usually mean the robot has very advanced mapping techniques, too, including creating its own floor plans that you can manipulate.

Size

How big your robot vacuum is can matter for a variety of reasons. When the robot vacuum is too small, it might not have enough clearance to shift between styles of floor. You may need a robot that can lift itself onto carpet from hardwood, for example. Of course, the necessary dimensions of your robot cleaner really depend on the layout of your home and what your furniture is like. You might have a couch so low to the ground you'd need a robot as thin as a sheet of paper to fit under there. If that's the case, maybe you don't care so much about how tall the vacuum is. However, if you need one that can go under furniture, make sure the one you buy is short enough to do so.

The other thing to remember when it comes to size is that the larger the vacuum is, the more room it has for things like a decent-sized dustbin. The dustbin is the most manual part of the robot vacuum really. Unless you're getting a super-advanced product like the iRobot Roomba i7+, you're not going to get a robot vacuum capable of dealing with its own garbage. The larger the dustbin, though, the longer it takes until you have to empty it again. Find the right balance between size and functionality that works best for you.

Smarts and control

How smart your robot vacuum is will determine how easy your life is going to be. There are a couple of ways robot vacuums show off their intelligence: how autonomous they are and how advanced the smart features are. Let's start with the first thing: autonomy. This ties into a lot of the features already mentioned, especially navigation. You need a robot vacuum that can do its job, figure out its own issues, recharge its battery when it's low, and finish the tasks you've assigned. If your robot vacuum lets you set its schedule, even better. With some, you can even send it to spot clean or clean a specific room it has in its databanks. All of that is pretty important if you want to eliminate the minutiae from your life.

You also need a smart robot with smart functionality. Some robot vacuums just come with a button or two on them you can press to send them to work. The better robots come with an app you can download on your smartphone. Connect the robot to your Wi-Fi network, and you can program it in all sorts of ways just from the app. Even better is if the robot can connect to your smart home altogether. Control the robot with your voice using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Higher-end models give you the ability to assign commands like "Clean Bobby's room" to set the robot on a task.

How to choose the best robot vacuum

It can be hard to choose the right robot vacuum for your house. There are so many on the market with so many different abilities. There's more to it than simply getting something that can vacuum your home.

Each robot vacuum has different abilities and convenience features that you'll want to consider. Typically, the more you pay for a robot vacuum, the more conveniences you get. However, you can still find some decently priced options. Here are a few things that can help you find the best option for your needs.

Battery life

If a robot vacuum is super good at sucking up debris but doesn't last long, it's going to take a long time to clean your home. Ideally, you'll find a vacuum with long battery life.

For something that can last for long stretches, we recommend the Roborock S6. It can last up to 180 minutes at a time before needing a recharge. That way, it can tackle large areas or particularly messy sections of your home. If it doesn't hit everything in its first run, it will recharge and continue cleaning.

The Roborock S5 also has an impressive run time of 150 minutes, so it'll be able to clean more floors before heading back to its dock. This one also has a recharge and resume feature, so it will make sure to get every section of your home after it gets more juice.

The third longest battery life goes to the Roomba i7+, which has a respectable run time of up to 120 minutes. This powerful vacuum will make the rounds in your home and reach more inches of the floor before needing to head back to the dock. If it runs out of juice before cleaning your entire home, then it will pick up where it left off once it's recharged.

The real important part to consider with battery life is the robot's ability to self-charge. Smarter robot vacuums can detect when their own battery is running low and return to the docking station to recharge, fill up the battery, and head on back out. So even if you choose a robot with lesser battery life, if it can do that, it will be able to finish the job no matter what. Obviously, just being able to stay out in the field is important, but compensating for that by recharging your own battery is pretty handy, too.

Dustbin capacity

If a vacuum can run for a long time, but the dust container is small, then you'll need to empty the dustbin frequently to keep it running smoothly. Ideally, you'll choose a vacuum that has both long battery life and a decent-sized dustbin. Here are the devices with the largest debris containers.

Technically the Neato Botvac D4 has the largest container at 0.7 liters. However, it has a shorter run time than most other devices on this list: only 75 minutes. Still, if you only need it to go over a couple of rooms, this vacuum's larger-than-average dustbin is an ideal option.

The magnificent iRobot Roomba i7+ has a 0.6-liter dustbin, which is impressive on its own, but this device offers a lot more convenience than that. When the dustbin gets full, the vacuum empties its load into the included cleaning base. The cleaning base can hold up to 30 containers worth of dust and debris before you need to empty it. Since this vacuum also has a charge and resume feature, you won't have to do nearly as much work when dealing with the debris container.

There's a tie for the next best capacity. Both the RoboVac 15C Max and the RoboVac 11S Max have a 0.6 L dustbin. Between the two, the RoboVac 15C Max gives you more for your money while only costing a few dollars more. Either way, these Eufy robot vacuums will help keep your floors clean with their large dustbins.

Smart functions and conveniences

There's more to a robot vacuum than simply sucking things up. The reason people buy these devices is for convenience. The most convenient vacuums create a map of your home and cover every inch of the floor instead of bouncing around haphazardly. The best also includes the ability to set up virtual walls on an app to prevent your vacuum from entering areas you don't want it to go. Some machines can even mop or can be controlled using a smart home assistant. Here are the best robot vacuums ranked by smart functions and convenience features.

When it comes to convenience, the iRobot Roomba i7+ is miles ahead of its competitors. For starters, you can control it with an app or a smart assistant. It maps your home and thoroughly covers every inch of your floor instead of bouncing around randomly. But what makes it the most convenient choice is the cleaning base. When the vacuum's dustbin gets full, it automatically heads to the cleaning base and empties its load. The cleaning base can hold up to 30 dustbin loads in all. That way, you won't have to keep emptying the dust and debris nearly as often.

The Roborock S6 is another helpful device that will make cleaning your house easier. It features 10 infrared sensors to prevent the unit from bulldozing into your belongings or fatally falling down a flight of stairs. You control it using an app, Amazon Alexa, or Google Assistant. It makes a map of your home and zig zags thoroughly all over your floors. You can even tell it where not to go. Should the battery run out of juice, the device will recharge at the dock and then resume cleaning. Finally, it even can mop your hard floors. You simply attach the included mop to the underside of the device and fill the included tank with water.

The Neato Botvac D4 is also an impressive device with several conveniences. The app is easy to use and allows you to both control and monitor the vacuum. You can also use the built-in Wi-Fi to control the unit using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. This vacuum also maps your home, which allows it to clean your floors in an orderly fashion rather than running around randomly. You can use the virtual walls within the app to prevent the device from going into specific areas of your home.

Price (lowest to highest)

Price is going to be a factor for any purchase you make. Just keep in mind that the most economical options tend not to have as many conveniences as the more costly ones. If you're simply looking for a budget option, then here are some choices to consider.

The iLife V3s Pro is the least expensive unit on this list by far. It does a great job of cleaning hard floors and low-pile carpets without the help of any Wi-Fi functionality. You won't be able to control it using an app or a smart home assistant, but it does come with a remote.

Ecovacs Deebot N79S is a popular choice for many consumers. It's inexpensive, but it can still be controlled using an app or smart home assistants. It might not have the ability to map your home, but it provides excellent cleaning for the areas it hits.

Finally, the Eufy RoboVac 11S Max is another great budget buy. It works great on hard floors and carpets up to medium-pile height. It also comes with a remote, so you can still control it from a distance even though it doesn't have an app.

Credits

Rebecca Spear loves keeping up-to-date with the latest and greatest electronics. She is a life-long gamer and a writer who has written hundreds of online articles over the past four years. On any given day you'll find her drawing with her Wacom tablet, playing video games, or reading a good book.