I’ve been envisioning a robot vacuum with a laser for years. The Spot+Scrub Ai excels in this aspect, but overall performance varies. Dyson had significant expectations to meet after its previous robot vacuum. The Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai easily surpasses the 2024 Dyson 360 Vis Nav without needing a test. As Dyson’s third robot vacuum attempt after two failures, the Spot+Scrub Ai’s success is crucial. A successful launch might suggest the 360 Vis Nav was just an anomaly, but if it fails to rival the best 2026 models, it might be time to reconsider the trajectory from stick vacuums to robot vacuums.
In recent days, I’ve been testing the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai alongside top Roborock and Dreame models. My impressions have been mixed, alternating between excitement and frustration quickly. Let’s dive into the details.
What sets the Dyson Spot+Scrub Ai apart? Dyson’s renowned green laser adds satisfaction to cleaning. After experiencing a Dyson stick vacuum with a laser in 2022, the dust-revealing green light became a significant talking point for the Spot+Scrub Ai. This laser, accompanied by AI, detects hidden spots and adjusts cleaning based on mess type. Unlike others that clean predetermined zones, it revisits areas if necessary.
Beyond the laser, the Spot+Scrub Ai features significant improvements compared to previous Dyson robot vacuums. It’s Dyson’s inaugural roller mop robot vacuum and the first to mop at all. Its roller mop is rinsed during cleaning, ensuring a clean pad for every section. The Spot+Scrub Ai uniquely mops using warm water for more efficient cleaning, unlike others that mop with room temperature water.
Furthermore, it includes a self-emptying dock, a long-awaited addition, and features an AI camera for obstacle avoidance without streaming imagery. Visually, I find the dock’s design too industrial, but its built-in detergent tank and bag-less dustbin are redeeming qualities. Despite numerous features, Dyson maintained the $1,199.99 price from the 360 Vis Nav’s debut. This reflects an understanding that the previous pricing was inflated, since the 360 Vis Nav now often sells for over 60% off.
Concerning cleaning intelligence, the Spot+Scrub Ai excels with typical litter box scenarios. In trials with my open litter box and Litter-Robot Evo, the Spot+Scrub Ai efficiently managed almost all debris, using its laser to ensure thoroughness.
The wet messes included salsa and wine spills. The Spot+Scrub Ai adeptly handled the salsa but faltered with the wine, its spinning side brushes worsening the mess. For its price, the 18,000 Pa suction power feels insufficient, especially compared to competitors like the Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Flow, priced lower but offering greater suction.
While the laser feature is intriguing, some alternatives might offer better value for the same investment. The Spot+Scrub Ai app has potential for improvement with adjustments, but currently, it hasn’t demonstrated the comeback Dyson needs in this sector.