22 Oct
Blog

Eufy HomeVac H30 Review: Good Things Come in Small Packages

The Eufy HomeVac H30 with 2-in-1 crevice nozzle and handle attachments.

Eufy HomeVac H30

RRP $ 199.99

"The Eufy HomeVac H30 has a strong suction power, but has a somewhat unfriendly design that complicates the attachment process and is not easy on the wrists."

advantages

  • Strong suction power

  • Slim and easy to store

  • Convenient charging station

  • Infinity comes with wiping accessories

disadvantage

  • Uncomfortable grip

  • Attachments can be difficult to use

  • Low battery life

Chaos can manifest itself in the blink of an eye. Maybe you filled up the cereal bowl and some flakes fell on the kitchen floor. Or maybe the cat decided to get creative with the litter spread across the homestead. And let's not forget the cobwebs on the ceiling that don't belong on your Halloween diorama.

While today's leading upright vacuum cleaners are built for the kind of roll-up sleeve that cleans the whole house that many of us take to weekend days off, a cordless handheld vacuum is the perfect solution for the little clutter that pops up out of nowhere – the kind of rubble that simply cannot be avoided until Saturday.

One such wireless companion is the Eufy HomeVac H30. It is designed for light, fast performance and comes with numerous attachments (some good, some not so good). I was able to put the H30 to the test for several weeks. That's what we think of Eufy's bite-sized cleaner.

Out of the box

The HomeVac H30 is available in three different model levels: Venture, Mate and Infinity (our test model). The fundamentals remain the same across the three levels, with appendices being the compromise from unit to unit. The Venture Series ($ 160) comes with a 2-in-1 grout cleaner and multi-surface tool. The Mate ($ 180) adds a motorized brush for removing pet hair. The flagship Infinity ($ 200) comes with everything you get with the Venture and Mate, along with a stick attachment and hard floor head for quick mopping (plus disposable mop heads). All H30 models are available in both black and white.

The Eufy HomeVac H30 with 2-in-1 crevice nozzle and handle attachments.Michael Bizzaco / Digital Trends

When I unpacked the H30 Infinity, I also received a replaceable lithium-ion battery, charging station, and wall-mounting accessories for hanging the charger (not required).

draft

I was immediately impressed with how light the H30 felt. Designed to be gripped with one hand, the entire vacuum weighs just 1.78 pounds. In terms of dimensions, the H30 measures 16.7 inches wide, 3.5 inches high and has a depth of 2.9 inches. As for the grip, it honestly took me a minute or two to get used to holding the H30. It's clear where to reach, but when you point the vacuum cleaner down to vacuum up dirt, the angle in the wrist area feels a little strange. Throwing up a cleaning attachment will help reduce the angle you have to dive into, but it doesn't completely eliminate the discomfort.

The Eufy HomeVac H30 vacuums oats from carpets.Michael Bizzaco / Digital Trends

The controls on the H30 are front and center and easy to understand. There is a power switch, a toggle switch to toggle between Eco and Max suction power (more on this in the next section) and a trash can button that unlocks the trash can. In addition, there are three LED indicators above the power button that show how much battery life is left.

When emptying the H30, be sure to position the vacuum cleaner over your garbage bag. After unlocking the container, you need to slide it all the way forward to release it from its rail. After emptying it can be a little difficult to lock the container back onto the absorbent body, but not overly.

The Eufy HomeVac H30 with mop attachment.Michael Bizzaco / Digital Trends

One of the very first things that caught my eye was how small the trash can actually is. At 250 grams, it is one of the smallest tank sizes that you will find on every cordless vacuum cleaner. Got a discarded bowl of lucky charms to clean up, foremilk? You may need to empty the container once (or twice).

The cleaning attachments all do their jobs well but feel incredibly cheap.

The Infinity comes with a variety of attachments including a 2-in-1 grouting tool, motorized brush head, and an extended handle and cleaning head for reaching ceilings and floors. While useful, my overall impression with these add-ons isn't a great one. Once locked up, they all do their job well, but they feel incredibly cheap and some of them are downright painful to attach to the H30 body. Other than a few box art pictures, there are no instructions to teach you how to connect things.

power

Eufy's patented TriPower system is an integral part of every H30 model. It's a technical innovation that effectively transfers more power from the battery to the vacuum motor and provides more suction power when you need it most. But how can that be transferred to the real world? Pretty seamless.

I also liked the possibility of plugging the power supply unit directly into the battery instead of having to dock the entire vacuum cleaner (with the battery connected) to the charging station.

In Eco mode, the H30 delivers a suction power of up to 12 kPa. With just the 2-in-1 grouting tool attached, the vacuum cleaner pulled dried oats out of my plushy dining room carpet excellently. I actually found that when switching the vacuum to Max mode (for up to 16 kPa suction power) it was more difficult to get the oats. That was until I switched to a new test environment.

With the stick and hard surface attachments locked in place, the H30 worked like a champion in Max mode and in just a few passes sucked up all of the oat flakes that I had placed on the kitchen laminate. The eco mode with the same attachments was also good, but a little weaker.

The Eufy HomeVac H30 is used to clean a couch.

I'll be the first to admit that I have hypersensitive hearing and generally have problems with loud devices, but my goodness, the H30 whines. Even in the eco setting, the noise of the simply running vacuum cleaner is rather high. It's by no means industrially loud, but it's certainly not as quiet as I expected (considering its small size).

If you spilled something quickly that needs mopping up, I'd honestly recommend paper towels and your cleaner of choice instead of the H30's mop head and pads. Yes, that's a nice consideration, but I found the attachments and pads difficult to work with. In my cleaning test, the H30 cut through some of my deliberately spilled lemonade, but the sticky residue stayed around.

Battery life

The H30's 2500 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery isn't the most powerful on the market. Built for up to 20 minutes of use in Eco mode and only 10 minutes in Max mode, you want to get your cleaning done quickly.

Low battery capacity is not a foreign concept in the world of handheld vacuum cleaners, but when you consider that it takes up to four hours to fully recharge the battery, the reduced run time can be a nuisance for some users. Fortunately, you can buy extra batteries to swap out while cleaning.

As far as charging is concerned, I also liked the option of plugging the power supply unit directly into the battery instead of having to dock the entire vacuum cleaner (with the battery connected) to the charging station.

price

The Eufy HomeVac H30 Infinity (the flagship model) typically retails for $ 199 but is currently out of stock. The H30 Venture (including 2-in-1 grout tool and multi-surface tool) costs $ 159, and the H30 Mate (2-in-1 grout tool, multi-surface tool, motorized brush attachment) can cost $ 179 US dollars can be purchased.

Our opinion

As a quick-grip, quick-to-clean cordless vacuum cleaner, the Eufy HomeVac H30 sucks up dirt well for which you don't want to pull the large stand out of the closet. It's also perfect for cleaning cars, between sofa cushions, ceiling corners and other hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. From a design standpoint, it's not the most convenient handheld to wrap your paws around, and some of these add-ons can be quite a chore.

In terms of pricing, I think $ 199 is a bit high for the Infinity, with $ 169 sounding a bit more reasonable to me.

Is there a better alternative?

I think so. the Black + Decker Max handheld vacuum cleaner has a nozzle that can be adjusted by 200 degrees and the 20 volt battery offers unbelievable suction power. As with the HomeVac H30, the charging station can also be used to store all of your attachments.

There are those too Hai Wandvac. The Wandvac is similar in size and shape to the HomeVac H30, can be easily hung and comes with a multi-surface pet hair tool.

How long it will take?

With the option to buy multiple batteries, I can see that the HomeVac H30 will last for several years. Plus, Eufy's hassle-free warranty protects your H30 for up to two years.

Should you buy it?

If you desperately need a handheld vacuum and the business of your choice has no other choice, I think it wouldn't be a bad idea to go home with the Eufy HomeVac H30. If there were other options I would suggest buying a different model – mainly to save some money (and gain some convenience).

Editor's recommendations



16 Oct
Blog

Eufy RoboVac X8 Review: Turbine Meets Unavoidable Collisions

The RoboVac X8 is docked to its charger.

Eufy RoboVac X8

RRP $ 599.00

"The Eufy RoboVac X8 brings a feature-rich companion app to the table, but the vacuum cleaner disappoints on some fundamental points."

advantages

  • Strong suction power

  • A solid companion app

  • Great battery life

disadvantage

  • Messy vacuuming and poor performance

  • Bad object avoidance

  • Bulky design

  • On the expensive side

When it comes to smart home appliances, robotic vacuums have managed to rise and dominate. It's not an unwanted invasion, however, as nothing beats an automatic cleaning assistant that floats around your house picking up dirt on a set schedule. The best robotic vacuums use advanced laser scanning technology to create blueprints of your home, maps that the vacuum cleaner references in its cleaning route, and maps that you can access in the vacuum cleaner's companion app. Other features like object avoidance and voice assistant control are also pretty standard these days.

There is no shortage of smart home brands offering "the best" vacuum robots on the market, which can make the buying process difficult. Eufy, a sub-label of parent company Anker, is a prolific manufacturer of some of today's leading smart tech – from cameras to health monitors. Eufy's brand new RoboVac X8 competes against the hordes of robotic vacuums and is hailed as one of the company's first vacuums. Is it worth the investment? We got our hands on a test device and can say a lot about it.

unpacking

the RoboVac X8 is packed with a handful of essentials to get you started. In the box you will find the X8 itself (with the side brush already attached), the charging station with power cord, an additional filter and an additional side brush as well as an instruction manual.

Unlike other robotic vacuum cleaners on the market, the X8 does not come with a dual-purpose charging station / dust collector. This means that you need to keep an eye on the vacuum cleaner's trash can so that you can manually empty it when it is full. To be honest, these towering canisters can be a real eyesore depending on the home decor you have to pair them with. So to me it wasn't a big deal that the X8 didn't come boxed with one.

The RoboVac X8 is docked to its charger.

The X8 itself is about 4 inches tall (including the top-mounted lidar scanner) by 13 inches in diameter. The vacuum cleaner's black body is a fairly low-key aesthetic that works well in most homes. The branding for the twin turbine function of the vacuum cleaner is located directly above the vacuum cleaner – a black label with a blue stripe on the left and a red one on the right.

The 600 milliliter dust box has a purple locking tab that you push down to pull out the tank. The washable filter is located directly in the dust box. To access it, just pull on either side of the tank and it will open in a clam-shell style. When you turn the vacuum cleaner you will find a central roller brush, two sturdy drum wheels, a forward facing surface adaptive wheel and a single side brush (detachable).

The bottom of the RoboVac X8.

The charging station doesn't take up much space – although you'll want to allocate enough space for the X8's docking process. Whenever I sent my test unit home to charge, the nipple needed a lot of space to comfortably dance around before docking (like the dog who has to turn a few times before landing in the dog bed).

Put up

Once your X8 is ready to use, the first thing you should do is download the EufyHome app (for iOS and Android devices). As soon as you start the app, EufyHome requests access to your device's bluetooth in order to be able to recognize your vacuum cleaner. After a few seconds, your X8 should appear in the list of available devices. Select it, enter your applicable Wi-Fi information (the X8 only works on 2.4 GHz network bands) and wait for the vacuum cleaner to connect to your network.

Note that you will need to set aside at least an hour or so for the X8 to have enough charge to function. My test device only registered my WiFi after it was docked for a while. Once everything is live, the app will prompt you to send your vacuum cleaner for the first cleaning. During this first pass, the lidar (light detection and distance measurement) and other image mapping functions are actively operated and create a cleaning map of your house that you and the vacuum cleaner can access.

power

The RoboVac X8 is equipped with several cleaning functions. First and foremost is the much-advertised twin turbine technology. Each turbine brings 2,000 Pa of suction into the equation, creating a vacuum experience that is twice as powerful as many competing bots. The ultra-pack dust compression feature is a solid consideration for a vacuum cleaner without an automatically empty canister / charging station. Essentially, all of the dirt the X8 draws in is heavily pressurized, reducing tank volume by up to 127%. Combined with intelligent lidar mapping and nearly three hours on a single charge, this should result in an incredible cleaning experience … right?

Not exactly. The RoboVac X8 lived at my house for several weeks. With the many rounds of cleaning I went through, I found the overall performance to be pretty average – in some cases below average. Let's start with the top slice of bread in the compliment sandwich.

Whenever the sweeper came across the oat, it whipped it into cracks and crevices that the vacuum cleaner would never navigate to.

The twin turbine technology brings the vacuum cleaner to impressive levels. When crossing the carpet, the X8 penetrated deep into the fibers, pulling up dirt, hair and other debris that was not visible on the surface. With BoostIQ activated, the vacuum cleaner also did an excellent job of automatically adjusting the suction power when switching from carpeted floors to tile and hardwood surfaces. When set to Pure (the default setting for soft suction), the vacuum cleaner is quite quiet, although the volume increases quickly when you switch to the next suction level. More on this below.

Collision avoidance

Now, let's get to the meat of the sandwich, where I'll complain. I've tested (and owned a couple of models) a few other vacs that had pretty lackluster object avoidance. This, combined with severe collisions with the inevitable obstacles, made for a nerve-wracking experience when I let go of the suction cups. Unfortunately, I found the Eufy no different. On the one hand, the X8 did a fine job of not slamming into furniture when bumped into a chair or ottoman, but there never seemed to be any active effort on the part of the vacuum cleaner to actually avoid the obstruction. Several times I had to jump in to save the vacuum cleaner from under a chair or between two items, which requires you to manually continue the cleaning cycle each time.

The RoboVac X8 cleans oats.

Also, the side sweeping brush turned out to be a nightmare when I put test oatmeal on the laminate surface of my kitchen. Whenever the sweeper came across the oat, it whipped it into cracks and crevices that the vacuum cleaner would never navigate to. I had to pull out my cordless handheld vacuum to clean up this clutter later. There have also been a few instances where the X8 would simply stop and not pair with the home map it created. It would come back online after a few moments of buffering, but it was strange walking by and watching it stumble.

Out of the lawsuit and into the bottom slice of bread. My X8 was fully charged and never needed to be charged during a complete cleaning of my home. It would cover the entire floor plan in under an hour (1,300 square feet) with minimal human babysitting required during operation.

software

The EufyHome app is your point of contact for all X8 settings and adjustments. Once the vacuum cleaner's lidar sensors are working, a detailed map of your home will be available for viewing on the home screen. From here you can track the progress and battery life of your vacuum cleaner while it cleans the house, labels rooms, sends the vacuum cleaner to clean specific areas and regulates the suction power.

If you want the X8 to move away from certain areas of the house, tap Edit Map and set one or more restricted areas that you want the vacuum cleaner to avoid.

App screens from the EufyHome app.

When vacuuming, you have the option of switching between four different presets (Pure, Power, Turbo and Max), with Pure (the softest setting) being the default setting. You can also turn BoostIQ on and off. This is the X8's ability to automatically adjust suction based on the surface it is vacuuming over.

Several useful functions are housed in an almost invisible separate settings menu. To access it, you need to tap the gear icon in the top right corner of the home screen. Here you'll find options to create vacuum schedules, a cleaning history report, and card management tools. In my opinion, the scheduling feature should be a quick tip button on the main screen of the app.

The scheduling function should be a quick tip button on the main screen of the app.

Visually, I wasn't the biggest fan of the super dark overlay that dominates the main map screen, either. It may sound fussy, but considering the other submenus on the EufyHome app are bright white, the X8's black background made navigating to certain functions a bit difficult – at least for me.

Price and guarantee

You will find the Eufy RoboVac X8 on sale for $ 599 via the Eufy website. Similar to other Eufy products, the X8 comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee and a one-year limited warranty.

Alternatively, there is also the Eufy RoboVac X8 Hybridwhich is linked to the function of a wiper. For the added $ 50 cost, it certainly seems like some added value given its 2-in-1 vacuum and mopping capabilities.

Our opinion

I cannot actively sing the praises of the RoboVac X8. Yes, it has a great app and the promise of powerful and smart cleaning technologies to keep your home pristine. In my personal experience, the X8 has often done more of my work for me and required multiple rescues and resets, with a handful of glitches thrown in every now and then.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes, several. From Roomba's entire range to affordable vacuum cleaners from Roborock and Neato, there are plenty of robotic vacuum cleaners that can clean your house without so many hiccups. In the price range, I think of the iRobot Roomba i3 Plus with its self-emptying dock and efficient cleaning as well as the Roborock S7 with its acoustic wiping function.

How long it will take?

I suspect the Eufy RoboVac X8 will last for several years. The outer shell is well protected, the app seems to stay updated successfully, and with the option to replace the main brush head and side brushes, there seems to be a lot of support from Eufy. It comes with a one-year limited warranty that protects it from defects from the date of purchase.

Should you buy it?

It's by no means a total dud, but your money is better off elsewhere.

Editor's recommendations



22 Aug
Blog

Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro Review: Spot-on Subject Tracking

eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro Test Lifestyle

Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro in the test: precise subject tracking

RRP $ 299.00

"From the sharp graphics to the rich app, there's a lot to love about Eufy's Floodlight Cam 2 Pro."

advantages

  • Excellent video quality

  • Great motion tracking

  • A powerful companion app

  • No subscription required

disadvantage

  • Hardwired only

  • Only 8 GB of internal storage (no cloud option)

Over the years, the world of intelligent security has taken on an entirely new form. While we used to rely on the big names in home surveillance to install their hardware and provide remote surveillance services, the performance of the security system has gradually become more and more DIY – and that's how we like it. Nothing beats grabbing your phone, opening an app, and viewing an instant live feed from a specific camera.

For outdoor DIY gadgets, the installation itself may take a little longer, but the instant reassurance remains the same. And what's not to love about a powerful floodlight camera with a control app?

When you buy a floodlight system you come across hundreds of brands that claim to be the best, but one name that still blows us away is Eufy, the smart home division of parent company Anker Innovations. Amid the release of a brand new line of outdoor cameras, we were able to find the Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro, the company's current flagship.

Does the Floodlight Cam 2 live up to its "premium" bill? Yes indeed. Read on to find out more.

Out of the box

The Floodlight Cam 2 has the look and feel of a camera built for performance. Do you know when something just feels cheap? That thought never crossed my mind with the Cam 2, especially when I was holding it in my hands. About the weight of a brick, the Floodlight has an IP65 rated outer shell that feels sturdy and ready for the elements.

The Cam 2 comes with everything you need to get started. The scope of delivery includes the camera itself, assembly and wiring material, a USB power connection for the initial setup (you need a power module in standby mode) and the operating instructions.The scope of delivery of the Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro.

Before installing the Cam 2 outdoors, you must first connect the device to your WLAN and the Eufy app (for iOS and Android platforms). After you've added the app to your mobile device, open it and tap Add Device. Select the Floodlight Cam 2 Pro from the list of available hardware. You will then be asked to scan the QR code on the camera body. The QR label is neatly hidden in the Floodlight's lower flap compartment, accessible by holding the release tab (watch out for your fingers) and pulling down on the white part of the camera body.

By tapping into the live feed, the daylight view presented a clear and colorful image with balanced contrast and little (if any) visual artifacts.

Next, connect your Floodlight using the included USB temporary power cable so you can go through the rest of the app setup. After you have connected the camera to your WLAN and run through the firmware update, you can start with the installation.

Eufy Security app setup screens.

Wired installation only

Similar to many other outdoor camera products (especially those with powerful lighting), the Floodlight Cam 2 requires a hard-wired power connection (110 to 240 volts). While certain homes may have pre-existing cables under house and garage awnings that you can use, you may need to add professional grade wiring and a compatible junction box to your to-do list if your home is not floodlit.

The wired connections of the Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro.

Yes, I was moaning to myself wishing the Cam 2 could run on batteries (I'm not a fan of wiring work) but there is no way I will lose the overall grade because of that. With its abundance of rich features, plus internal storage and powerful lighting (more on these two assets below), a hardwired connection is absolutely necessary. Without one, we'd recharge the batteries every two weeks.

If a wall or ceiling junction box is installed (either the setup is Floodlight approved) the rest of the installation is just a matter of screwing in the Cam 2's rectangular mounting plate, connecting the wiring, and attaching the camera. Conveniently, the camera comes with a sturdy strap that you can hang from the junction box while the cables are being connected.

Top notch video quality and motion tracking

the Floodlight camera 2 has a 2K sensor for live feeds and video recordings. That is twice the number of pixels compared to its predecessor, the Eufy Floodlight Camera. While the previous iteration only offered a fixed view, the Cam 2 has an adjustable 360-degree lens housing, a 130-degree vertical axis, and full pan and tilt controls. While a lack of 4K support can leave some users disappointed, based on the video quality I learned about during my testing period, I assume that most property owners will be more than satisfied.

Daily footage from the Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro.

The Cam 2 delivers extraordinary videos, day and night. By tapping into the live feed, the daylight view presented a clear and colorful image with balanced contrast and little (if any) visual artifacts. Night views use the three adjustable 3,000 lumen floodlights that illuminate the area in and around the camera well. Better still, the Cam 2's automatic night mode (you can toggle it on and off in the app) brings another level of nighttime detail.

Night shots from the Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro.

One of my favorite out-of-the-box features of Cam 2 that is only surpassed by its optics is the camera's subject tracking. A very responsive AI. Module is built for human recognition. Whenever a passer-by crossed the Cam 2's 270 degree motion threshold, my Cam 2 would fly into action, catching the person and tracking them with ease. In addition to a motion notification on your phone, the Cam 2 also records a video clip in the Eufy app and logs it when a person is detected.

Yes, not having to use your credit card for an annual cloud service membership is a huge benefit, but those looking for expanded storage may be a little disappointed.

Best of all, you can create two custom activity zones in the Eufy app (more on app coverage below) to avoid unnecessary motion alerts that are outside your property line.

A feature-rich companion app

The Cam 2 basics are all pretty stellar, but what about the mobile app? Rest assured, you are in good hands. Eufy Security is your one-stop portal for all Anker security products, from indoor and outdoor cameras to motion sensors. All of your Eufy hardware that is currently online is listed on the Devices tab on the home page, along with a thumbnail of the last picture you took.

When a motion clip is recorded, it is saved in the Events tab. Here you can sort all of your recordings, with filters for people, pets, and more. You can also watch clips again and delete clips you no longer need. With 8GB of internal storage that's estimated to last up to 30 days (based on average motion detection settings), no subscription is required to store videos. Yes, not having to use your credit card for an annual cloud service membership is a huge benefit, but those looking for expanded storage may be a little disappointed.

The different screens of the Eufy Security App.

On the "Security" tab, you can set your Cam 2 to "Home" and "Away" mode, each with their own settings and adjustments. You will also find geofencing and schedule selections to program your camera based on your zip code, sunrise / sunset, time of day, and more.

Tapping the Floodlight Cam 2's play button on the device screen will take you to a live feed from the camera with capture options, screenshots, two-way communication and tracking / calibration functions. Tapping the settings icon in the top right corner will take you to various customizations for the Cam 2 itself, including motion detection / monitoring, lighting, recording and video quality. You can also arm / disarm the Cam 2, turn the automatic night vision on and off, and much more.

For smart home lovers, the Cam 2 offers support for Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can receive and view motion events and live feeds from your Cam 2 via a compatible smart display.

Price and guarantee

The Eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro is currently $ 299 and comes with a one-year, no-hassle warranty.

Our opinion

Outside of a slightly longer installation window than most smart security devices, the Floodlight Cam 2 Pro is top of the line. With outstanding video quality, intelligent subject tracking, numerous customization options, a solid mobile app and a fair price, the Cam 2 is a premium outdoor light that we warmly recommend for any residential or commercial property.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to wired floodlight cameras, the Floodlight Cam 2 is a perfect match with other top Floodlight options from Ring, Arlo, and other major security brands. If you're a quality connoisseur and insist on 4K, the Arlo Pro 3 Floodlight camera gives you UHD viewing, the option of wireless installation, and a lower price. However, you'll need to opt for an Arlo subscription if you want some type of video storage, which makes the Floodlight Cam 2's internal storage even more convenient.

How long it will take?

A rugged design and hard-wired electrical connection to your home's power supply should keep the Floodlight Cam 2 running for some time. If you run into trouble, Eufy's one-year warranty covers you.

Should you buy it?

Absolutely. The Floodlight Cam 2 Pro offers exceptional setup-to-assembly performance and a companion app with an incredible number of customization options.

Editor's recommendations



03 Jul
Blog

Eufy SoloCam E40 Review: The Anti-Subscription Security Cam

Rectangular design of the Eufy SoloCam E40.

“Who would like to pay for another subscription service? The Eufy SoloCam E40 defies this trend. "

  • Does not require a subscription service

  • Razor-sharp night vision quality

  • Above average battery life

  • Fight with dynamic range

Digital subscriptions are ubiquitous, especially in the security camera world. Users can only access premium features like cloud storage or artificial intelligence surveillance by paying for a subscription service. Between paying for YouTube Music, Amazon Prime, and Apple Fitness +, my bank account withdrawals for recurring payments are at an all-time high – so it would be a relief to potentially prevent another pinning.

The Eufy SoloCam E40 is the first of many new security cameras to hit the market this year that frees us from the shackles of subscription services as it is a standalone all-in-one security camera system. There is no need for a separate hub to store footage on a microSD card or subscription service for remote access to footage. The included data sheet sweetens the deal as it offers 2K video recording and a battery life of 120 days. A dream comes true – or does it?

Design: Say goodbye to the hub

First of all, I have to point out that previous outdoor surveillance cameras from Eufy required the use of a bridge – something that excites me that is no longer the case with the Eufy SoloCam E40. Because the camera now connects directly to the WLAN, which is a welcome relief.

Back cover of the Eufy SoloCam E40.John Velasco / Digital Trends

With its design, an elongated, rectangular shaped chassis that is quite light and solidly built, there is nothing out of the ordinary. With the all-plastic construction, it has a waterproof protection class IP65, which keeps it operational in all weather conditions. Even if I don't mind the supplied screw attachment, I would have liked a magnetic attachment as an option for quick and easy removal.

Installation: Ready to use in around five minutes

With the hub not in the equation, getting the Eufy SoloCam E40 up and running is a breeze. In fact, it took me about five minutes to complete. Once out of the box, all I have to do is run the app and then point the QR code at the camera to connect it to my home's Wi-Fi network.

Eufy SoloCam E40 on external screw mounting.John Velasco / Digital Trends

There were no problems with the installation, so I had to screw the bracket to the wall using the screws that came with it. Although it is advertised as an outdoor camera, it can easily be converted to an indoor camera as well as it is a wireless camera that does not require constant power to operate. If you want to save yourself the hassle of charging, you can connect it to a power source via its micro-USB port, which is hidden behind the rear cover.

Features: All the basics at your disposal

Today's cameras have some advanced features like face recognition to distinguish people, package detection to protect shipments from pirates, HDR recording, and even the ability to digitally pan and zoom a person. Advanced features like this can be found in top-notch cameras like the Arlo Pro 4, but the Eufy SoloCam E40 gives you the basics.

Well, that's not a bad thing, especially when it's effective in monitoring, detecting, and providing a general sense of security. The range of functions consists of activity zones, person recognition, night vision and local storage. With the latter, however, the Eufy SoloCam E40 does not use a microSD slot like other cams, but instead has its own 8 GB integrated memory. This can be alarming in the event of the camera being stolen, but the footage is protected by military-grade encryption.

The range of functions is rounded off by an integrated 90 dB siren, two-way communication and support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. These are all contemporary features of today's security cameras, but nothing out of the ordinary compared to what other notable cameras in the field have to offer.

Video Quality: A few minor nuances in 2K videos

Another aspect of the Eufy SoloCam E40 that I really appreciate is that it doesn't settle for 1080p footage, but instead opts for 2K (2,304 x 1,296) videos. The preview of the footage on my smartphones is very clear. It does struggle with dynamic range, however, which can be seen in how highlights are blown out unlike the rest of the scenery. In addition, the film material is sharpened too much and a colder color temperature is preferred. While the overall quality is still cheap, it records clips at a slower rate of 15 frames per second (fps) – far less than the 30 fps standard found on other cameras.

In contrast, the night vision material is incredibly clear, razor sharp and well lit. With the help of its infrared LEDs, the Eufy SoloCam E40 has captured some deer walking through my garden with breathtaking clarity. Fortunately, there is no drop in the frame rate with night vision as the same rate of 15 fps is maintained. The only things missing here that would add significantly to the arsenal are color night vision and a headlight.

Battery life: go the distance

After testing the Eufy SoloCam E40 for a week, I'm happy to report that the battery life is still 100%. I know it's technically not at 100%, but it's charged enough to indicate a full charge. My only complaint is that you have to go through the power manager's settings to see the percentage as the app only shows a battery icon with five bars on the main screen.

It's one less subscription service that you have to worry about paying.

Of course, battery life will depend on a lot of factors, but I'm hoping for the 120-day rating. It's ambitious, but certainly not out of style, as the Arlo Essential XL has been chugging for over 90 days since I last charged it.

Our opinion

Eufy's new camera isn't groundbreaking, but it doesn't have to be if it does the job safely by notifying me of relevant detection notifications. It's at least capable of distinguishing humans from animals, but the Eufy SoloCam E40 really gets my attention because it's a complete system that works out of the box – something that doesn't require paid subscription services.

At $ 130, it's mid-range, which is reasonable for its offering and performance. Hey, at least it's one less subscription service to worry about at the end of the month.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to features and performance, the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight is still an incredible option because for $ 200 it offers 2K HDR video recording, advanced AI. Detection and color night vision.

The Wyze Cam Outdoor is a cheaper, full-featured option for $ 60 and even has a handy offline mode for recording footage to a MicroSD card when there is no Wi-Fi connectivity.

How long it will take?

The all-plastic construction feels sturdy, so I'm sure it will withstand all weather conditions. There is a one year limited warranty that covers defects.

Should you buy it?

You bet. It's one less subscription service that I have to pay for on a monthly basis. Plus, it strikes a balance with its price, features, and performance.

Editor's recommendations



03 Jan
Blog

Eufy RoboVac G30 Review: Won’t Break the Bank

Eufy robot on the floor

Eufy RoboVac G30 Hybrid Review: This robotic vacuum cleaner isn't going to break the bank

"This is a cute little robotic vacuum cleaner that you can use to keep your home clean without cleaning your wallet first."

  • App informs you when parts need to be serviced

  • Manual remote control for easy cleaning

  • Very comprehensive app

  • Inexpensive for a 2-in-1

  • Questionable brush durability

  • The wiping is a little weak

Finding a good robot vacuum is not difficult. It's harder to find a good one that won't break the bank. Eufy is trying to solve this second problem with its RoboVac G30 Hybrid. I have been testing this robot vacuum for two weeks and am very impressed with what the vacuum offers. It has good suction, a very comprehensive app and talks to you.

The $ 379 Eufy RoboVac G30 Hybrid, which our daughter named "Mando" because it looks a bit like Mandalorian armor, definitely does the job as efficiently as possible. This is demonstrated by the exact back and forth pattern it follows across the floor. I can appreciate this simplicity. The Bissell Spinwave follows its own algorithms that defy logic. Not this one.

Set everything up

The Eufy Spin brush may not last long

The setup is similar to most robot vacuum cleaners. Find a place free of obstacles, put down the charging mat and lock the charging stand. As with other robotic vacuum cleaners, you should leave plenty of space on both sides. I didn't and like other vacuum cleaners it worked just fine. The vacuum cleaner can clean my 172 square foot family room / office in about 34 minutes.

On the bottom is a single three-pronged spin brush that sweeps dirt into the path of the vacuum. Due to my two weeks of use, I am concerned about the longevity of the spin brush. My office has low-pile carpets and the brush looks a bit disturbed. The Eufy Home app, which we will get into in more detail later, has a useful feature that reminds you when to clean or replace various components. According to the app, I have to replace my side brush within 247 hours. I am not optimistic that it will take that long.

The vacuum hardware itself is very attractive and unobtrusive. The top is made of very shiny plastic with a neat pinstripe pattern. At just 2.85 inches high, the vacuum fits easily under my couch and the step plates in my kitchen. There is a single sided sweeper on the right and a trash can on the back. The vacuum cleaner also includes an attachable mop accessory that falls under the garbage can.

Wiping is too short

The wiping function is just fine. The attachment under the garbage can doesn't have much space for water, but it covered my kitchen well. In contrast to the Bissell Spinwave, however, the mop head does not move and does not move. It just pulls itself behind the vacuum. The mop is also designed for water only, which is similar to most robotic vacuum cleaners, but again different from the Spinwave, which actually comes with wiping agent in the box. The smaller mop head keeps the original trash can in place. So if you have a dusty, dirty floor, you can run the vacuum as usual and pick up the same amount of dirt. But honestly, I probably won't be using the mopping function anymore because you need more than just water on a high-traffic floor like a kitchen.

This is a good, solid vacuum cleaner that will clean your floors and carpets well.

The vacuum also comes with magnetic strips that you can use to block areas where you don't want the robot to travel. That's not really ideal. My office is carpeted and I really don't want to put tape over the carpet. In general, putting tape on the floor to cordon off certain areas is a thorn in the side. I prefer to put a board over the threshold to my son's room as I can just slide it away later.

The vacuum has a speaker and gives verval warnings and status updates which is very nice. Some vacuums use a series of beeps to alert you to problems. A vacuum speaking to you removes any doubts about what is wrong. It's a nice touch.

software

The app for the vacuum is just as nice. Since I mentioned above, I'll start with the fact that the app will notify you when it's time to swap out components or order new parts. In addition to the side brush, you will be informed about the roller brush, the filter, the sensors and the rubber strip. That is a core function. Robotic vacuums run on their own, so it's harder to tell when something isn't working as it should. In all honesty, all robotic vacuums should have this built into their apps.

You can also schedule cleans, adjust the suction and voice settings, and even use your phone as a remote control to get the vacuum where you want it. It can also do spot cleaning and show you the layout that the vacuum created for itself. This isn't particularly useful data, but it's fun to look at.

Our opinion

This is a really solid buy at $ 379. It's one of the cheapest robotic vacuums out there, and it has a wide variety of features that are usually offered at higher prices. The vacuum cleaner does a good job on my office carpet and a slightly better job on the tile floor of my kitchen. Overall, I have no complaints about how it does its job. I just want a better option for locking certain areas.

Is there a better alternative?

A better alternative is hard to imagine at this price. High-quality models of robotic vacuum cleaners such as the Roomba s9 + have self-emptying trash cans. For a little extra cash, you can opt for something like the Roborock S5, which also comes with wiping accessories and has more advanced sensors.

Will it take?

The build-up of the total vacuum is fixed. I ask the app's estimate of how long the side brushes will last, but that's about the only question mark I have when it comes to durability. Side brushes are $ 10 for a pack of 4, so I'm not too worried about that. Eufy robotic vacuum cleaners come with a 12-month guarantee and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Should I buy it?

Yes. This is a good solid vacuum cleaner that will clean your floors and carpets well. I like the voice and remote capabilities, and maintenance reminders in the app are perfect for me. Now all we need is one in green so we can call it Grogu.

Editor's recommendations




17 Jul
Blog

Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch Review: Not So Smart

Eufy Smart Lock touch dial pad

Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch review: Not so intelligent

"It looks scary, but its functionality is too tame."

  • Robust design

  • Unlocked quickly with your fingerprint

  • Can set up temporary codes

  • Not a good value

  • Bluetooth connection only

Eufy was in a tear on the smart home market last year. So far it has been shown that the product line strikes a balance between functions, performance and price. The company has tackled everything from robotic vacuum cleaners to surveillance cameras. Now Eufy is breaking into the world of intelligent locks.

Enter the Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch, which appears to be business. What is a bit surprising is the price, which at $ 250 is a bold statement for a company that is proud of the budget prices for many of its devices. Is this reward worth it?

Long installation

Here's the first thing you should know. To use Eufy's Smart Lock, you must replace the entire existing deadlock. I was not particularly impressed by this, because it means that I have to replace my existing key set. Even if you, like me, are familiar with installing smart locks, the installation process can be tedious.

The entire installation process from start to finish took approximately 30 minutes.

Overall, the entire installation process took 30 minutes from start to finish. This is more than twice the time it took me to install the SimpliSafe Smart Lock and Level Lock. With both you can use your existing lock.

Why does it take so long? On the inside of your door there is a mounting plate for the internal assembly, in which the batteries and the locking switch are located. Positioning and assembling is not a challenge, but a bit fussy.

Solid design that means business

I admit that the Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch has an intimidating presence. The design includes a metal frame, shiny plastic accents and a striking fingerprint sensor. Seams are barely visible on the outer assembly, while the keyhole is protected by a metal cover. The digital keyboard appears invisible to the eye unless it is touched, which activates the backlight.

Eufy Smart Lock touch dial padJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The durability is low because it has a weatherproof protection rating IP65, so that it can withstand extreme temperatures and weather conditions.

Although powered by four AA batteries, there is a micro USB connector on the bottom of the external assembly that can be connected to a power source. This is useful when the battery is empty and you don't have the physical keys. The battery is designed for one year and still shows all five bars after two weeks.

It may look chunky, but given its durable design, I agree with the bulky and intimidating look.

It could be smarter

Convenience is important, so I like an intelligent lock that can get me in in no time. The fingerprint sensor is without a doubt my preferred method of unlocking the lock as it can recognize me in less than a second. It was just right to see my fingerprints.

The digital keyboard is my next choice. However, you will encounter the problem that fingerprints are visible on the surface. This problem can make it easier for someone to guess your passcode by examining the keys you pressed in the past.

There is a function in the Eufy Security app, the scramble password, with which you can enter random numbers before or after entering the passcode. It's a nice idea, but seems too annoying to use at any frequency.

Of course, you can also use the Smart Lock app to unlock it. However, it relies heavily on a Bluetooth connection, so it will take a few seconds for the connection to be established when you approach the lock.

This means that you can't unlock remotely through the app when you're not at home. Alexa and Google Assistant are not compatible with Eufy's lock. While other smart locks can detect when your phone is nearby and unlock it automatically, you won't find this feature here. These restrictions bother me because they seriously affect the comfort of the lock.

Still, there are options to set up temporary access for individuals. You can select the dates and times when these temporary codes are active. This is ideal for guests or dog walkers. You can also check in the app who unlocks the door at what time.

If you're concerned about data protection, you just know that fingerprints and in-app data are stored locally with a bank-quality AES128 encryption chip.

Our opinion

Eufy had a number of solid smart home devices, but the Eufy Security Smart Lock Touch lags behind the competition. With an inflated price of $ 250, it's a huge investment that lacks the intelligence of other locks.

Is there a better alternative?

The August Wi-Fi Smart Lock achieves the same amount as this, but offers more features and easier installation while keeping your existing lock. The level lock is also a similar option that turns any existing lock into a smart lock. If you are on a budget, the $ 100 Wyze Lock is hard to beat.

How long it will take?

It's solidly built and Eufy offers a 1-year limited warranty for defects. Smart locks are not misused much because they are fixed in one position. So I would expect Eufy's castle to last for years. You will probably want to replace it with newer locks due to upgrades long before it breaks.

Should you buy it

No. Eufy's expensive Smart Lock Touch lacks too many features that are common among competitors.

Editor's recommendations




11 Jul
Blog

Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K Review: Covering The Basics

Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K on the table

Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K

"Eufy's Indoor Cam 2K delivers impressively sharp video quality."

  • Excellent 2K video footage

  • Inexpensive

  • Local storage option

  • Easy setup

  • Boring design

  • Weak internal speaker

Inexpensive cameras usually have a less than excellent reputation. But now and then someone comes and surprises us. One example is the Wyze Cam V2, which offers exceptional functions at a very low price.

We recently put Eufy's latest offering, the Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt, through its paces and were amazed at what a $ 50 surveillance camera could offer. Now it's time for another affordable camera – the Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K. It has all the functions of its sibling, minus the pan and tilt function. And it's only $ 40.

2K material that won't disappoint you

By far the best thing about the Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K is the razor-sharp 2K video material that has a resolution of 2304 x 1296 pixels. The quality looks the same as in the pan-and-tilt version. This is not a big surprise as the same 1 / 2.7-inch sensor with a 125-degree field of view is used.

Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K camera close-upJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Details are plentiful, while colors tend to get a little saturated. Overall, the footage is impressive, but the dynamic range could be better as the highlights tend to be overblown compared to the scene's neutral exposure. Impressively, there is no major deterioration even with night vision material. It's good to keep details, even in almost pitch-black conditions.

Not much to see

Eufy didn't think much about its design. The Security Indoor Cam 2K is made entirely of plastic and is lightweight and is supplied with power via a micro USB connection. The camera's square box is located on the top of the base so that it can be adjusted for the ideal view. It does the job, but there's nothing noticeable about the design.

It's good to keep details, even in almost pitch-black conditions.

Since it is a static camera, you have to be strategic when placing it, as the field of view is 125 degrees narrower than most other cameras. Corners are ideal and offer the best vantage point to cover rooms. It comes with a mounting plate with which it can be attached to a wall. However, you should still be careful (or bring an extension cable), as the power cord is only about 3 m long.

A basic surveillance camera

As is to be expected in view of the price, it is a basic surveillance camera. It marks all the markings in what you want to include so that a simple setup is done in no time and nothing more.

Once you've downloaded the Eufy Security app, you'll find controls for motion zones, notifications, and motion detection. It does a great job of detecting people and pets that appear as a notification with a small screenshot. You can set the sensitivity so that you are not bombarded every time something is discovered.

The choice is always a good thing, which is why I appreciate that the Eufy Security Indoor Cam offers 2K cloud and local storage options. If you choose the former, you get a free 30-day trial of Eufy's cloud storage, saving you up to 14 days of recordings. You will then see $ 2.99 per month for a single camera or $ 29.99 for an annual subscription.

Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2k Rating 7 out of 8

Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2k Rating 8 by

Whenever the camera is accessed for a live view, the camera's LED status indicator lights up blue.

The built-in speaker isn't particularly loud. So don't rely on the siren's alarm to scare someone away. However, your pets may be scared at first when the camera detects them and shouts, "Hey, what are you doing there?"

It is possible to switch off the camera in the app and effectively switch off the camera and microphone. If you're worried that Big Brother is watching, you can rest easy. However, Eufy is still missing two-factor authentication, and that's a privacy issue.

Our opinion

If you can exceed the additional $ 10, choose Eufy's other camera – the Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt. I think Pan and Tilt's heading feature is worth the extra $ 10. Nevertheless, the Indoor Cam 2K works just as well as its siblings, and you can save yourself a Hamilton if you absolutely do not need the pan / tilt function.

How long it will take?

This should hold better than the rotating model because there are fewer moving parts. In the event of a malfunction, Eufy grants a 1-year limited warranty for defects.

Is there a better alternative?

As mentioned earlier, the Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K Pan & Tilt is the better buy at $ 50. You pay a little more, but you get this 360-degree coverage – and more security in terms of privacy because the camera is not visible. Alternatively, the Wyze Cam V2 remains the benchmark to beat due to its outstanding cost of $ 20.

Should you buy it

Yes. The price is affordable and the image quality of the camera is impressive.

Editor's recommendations




25 Jun
Blog

Eufy Indoor Cam 2K Pan And Tilt Review: Thieves Can’t Hide

ufy Security Indoor Cam 2K

Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K pan and tilt report: nowhere to hide

"Eufy's 2K Pan And Tilt offers 360-degree coverage and sharp video quality at an affordable price."

  • The rotating base offers 360 degree coverage

  • Inexpensive costs

  • Sharp 2K footage

  • Tons of data protection features

  • The 2-factor authentication is missing

  • Shrill sounding speaker

Anker Innovations' smart home sub-brand, Eufy, has made progress in building its portfolio. The EufyCam 2 and the Eufy Security video doorbell have proven to be top competitors in their respective areas. Now they have to ensure security with an indoor camera in the house. The Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt is a fascinating option to monitor your home and protect your privacy.

360 degree security cover

As the name suggests, the Eufy Security Indoor Cam uses a rotating base that allows it to pivot and tilt to ensure maximum coverage in your home. Regardless of position, it can be manipulated to cover almost any area. This implementation is rare for indoor cameras, so it has a distinct advantage over its fixed counterparts.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Indoor cameras are usually best located in corners to maximize their coverage. With this function, however, it can be placed anywhere and still cover all corners – despite the camera's moderate 125-degree field of view.

In comparison, the indoor camera from Ring has a wider field of view of 140 degrees. Since the Eufy Security Indoor Cam has an advantage with its articulated camera, it can possibly cover a larger area. In addition, it can also be mounted on walls and ceilings for a better viewing angle for even more coverage.

The only complaint I have when panning and tilting is that the camera cannot rotate freely beyond a certain point. There appears to be a lock point so it cannot pan over a 360 degree turn. Instead, you have to turn the camera back the other way. This can be a bit confusing when using the function.

Respect for your privacy

The Eufy Security Indoor Cam Pan & Tilt offers some remarkable features that protect your privacy at home.

In addition to the available cloud storage, there is primarily a microSD slot for local storage. It's reassuring for those who want to make sure the footage shot by the camera stays private.

It's worth noting that cloud storage plans through Eufy for 3 days of rolling video history start at $ 3 a month, which is only for a single camera. In the meantime, the $ 10 monthly subscription covers up to 10 cameras with the same 30-day continuous video history.

Second, the camera can be switched off via the app, which causes the camera to hide itself and thus release its microSD slot. It can be used effectively as a privacy screen, which is very nice because the camera lens is completely blocked. However, I wish there was a button on the camera itself that could cover the camera and mute the microphone. There is also an LED light at the base of the camera that flashes red to indicate that the live stream is being accessed.

Finally, it is possible to set activity zones so that any movement or detection registered in the specified zones prompts the camera to take action. All of these features indicate that privacy is of interest to Eufy.

There are many details to differentiate between faces and pets.

A big gap, however, is the lack of 2-factor authentication. I welcome all efforts by Eufy Security Indoor Cam Pan and Tilt, but 2-factor authentication is an important privacy and security feature that Eufy needs to incorporate.

Sharp 2K footage

Eufy outperforms most of the competition with its 2K video recording resolution. There are many details to differentiate between faces and pets, but the resolution is set to 720p when the lighting conditions dim. It is strange that this is the case, especially when taking night vision shots with a resolution of 2K. Nevertheless, the video performance of the Eufy Indoor Cam is above average.

Areas of opportunity

One of the strange features of the camera is its ability to yell at people or pets. Seriously.

Whenever it spots a face or pet, it yells "Hey, what are you doing ?!" I was actually alarmed when it first yelled at me because of the shrill sound of the recording. Fortunately, the sensitivity to motion / pet detection can be reduced and there is a possibility to disable it completely.

The built-in speaker is weak, so it is difficult to talk through the camera. And while the siren function can scare people quickly, in most situations it's not loud enough to alert neighbors.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

After all, I wish the camera was smart enough to know when I'm home or not – much like Google's Nest Cams can be turned on and off automatically depending on your phone's GPS coordinates. Instead, everything is manual for the Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K pan and tilt, which means that you have to select the mode manually when you leave the house and return.

Our opinion

There's a lot to like about the Eufy Security Indoor Cam 2K Pan and Tilt, and even more if you consider the price of $ 50. Combined with the numerous functions, the excellent video performance and the emphasis on privacy, the competitors have no choice but to admit that it is a legitimate player.

How long it will take?

Cameras are usually repaired, but with so many moving parts of the Eufy indoor camera, there is concern that it could fail. One of the downsides to being so cost-conscious is that it's mostly made of plastic. So I can imagine that if it hits the ground hard it will take a blow. If you are concerned that internal components will fail, there is a 1-year limited warranty for defects.

Is there a better alternative?

Not really for its price. If you're looking for something cheaper, the Wyze Cam V2 is a great option for $ 20. On the other hand, the Google Nest Cam IQ Indoor is another solid package with advanced technology like integrated Google Assistant, HDR video and a 4K sensor.

Should you buy it

Yes. Eufy has a solid all-round surveillance camera that doesn't break the bank.

Editor's recommendations




15 May
Blog

Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge Review: A Worthy Budget Contender

"The Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge is a wonderfully simple robotic vacuum cleaner."

  • Great app

  • Easy to use

  • Manual control option

  • Adjustable volume control

The Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge ($ 399) is a robotic vacuum cleaner with a great app and features that make it stress free and amazingly easy to use. Surprisingly, it's not the cheapest bot vac: it's at the bottom and can be a good option for those who don't want to pay a fortune for premium vac brands like iRobot or Ecovacs. There was very little that I didn't like about this cleaning bot, and that says a lot because I rarely find robotic vacuum cleaners useful or efficient. I learned that when I tested the G30 Edge.

App worship

G30 Edge app

The Eufy Home app is one of the best robot vacuum apps I've seen in a long time. It is easy to use and trouble-free and offers countless well thought-out options. For example, I think it's great that you can use the app to adjust the voice volume of the G30's robot voice. I have never seen this option on a robot vacuum and it is fantastic.

However, I think the manual control option is my favorite part of the G30 app. The manual control basically turns the G30 into a remote controlled car that cleans while the app is the control. This is a rare feature on most robotic vacuum cleaners and I'm glad that Eufy picked it up. I'm so frustrated when cleaning bots is not where I want it to be, and this option gives me complete control. You can also choose how much suction you think your floors need to get clean.

Do you want to set it and forget it? The planning function is refreshingly easy to use. If you are not there and are not sure whether the G30 has actually been cleaned on schedule, there is a cleaning report that you can access in the app that gives you all the details.

A button for easier cleaning

Another special feature of the RoboVac G30 Edge is the stain removal button. I don't know how many times I took a robot vacuum cleaner and put it in a place where quick cleaning was required to make it fly away and clean another area of ​​the room. Tapping the stain cleaning button on the top of the G30 tells him to be in a specific area. Spot Clean doesn't just keep the vacuum cleaner in one place. The cleaning begins in a small circle, which increases with each revolution.

Voice control

G30 edge on carpetAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

Although buttons and an app are great, nothing makes you feel like voice commands to the king or queen of your automated kingdom. The G30 can be controlled with Alexa or Google Assistant. You can say things like "Alexa, start cleaning" or "Hey Google, stop cleaning" to control the little bot. I find this option very useful when I am in the middle of a task and remember that I need to vacuum. One command and suddenly I suck while doing everything else I have to do. You can also ask the assistant to find your Bot Vac or send it to recharge.

Battery life

Eufy claims that the RoboVac G30 can run for up to 100 minutes. I thought that was pretty accurate, although the Bot Vac had to remove dog hair and a variety of crumbs, which is a big task for a robot Vac of any kind. This type of battery life is above average for the price range. For example, the Pure Clean Robot vacuum cleaner only runs for about 50 minutes and the first-class iRobot Roomba s9 Plus only for about 60 minutes.

This type of battery life is above average for the price range.

If many robot vacuum cleaners have a low battery, they will return to their charger and you will need to restart them. The G30 charges and starts cleaning where it left off. This is a particularly useful feature when you want to operate your robotic vacuum cleaner while you are away from home.

cleaning

When it started, I didn't think the G30 Edge would do very well when cleaned. For one thing, I didn't like the fact that the G30 Edge only has a cleaning brush for cleaning edges and corners. Other robotic vacuum cleaners such as the Ecovacs Deebot 901 have two edge brushes, which usually does not result in more thorough cleaning. However, the G30 surprised me. It seemed to get in there and do the work with just one brush.

My cats weren't even disturbed by the noise.

Second, it is quiet. While most robotic vacuum cleaners sound like a jet plane taking off, the G30 only has a quiet whir when it slips through the living room. My cats weren't even disturbed by the noise. Obviously, I didn't think it had the suction power to do much of anything. Amazingly, my carpet got very clean. I'm not sure if it got into the fibers and really absorbed the deep dirt, but the surface was clean. This is due to the BoostIQ system, with which the G30 automatically recognizes what type of suction your floor needs and can adjust it accordingly.

I also noticed that the G30 does not have as many small panes on top as many robot vacuum cleaners, such as the Neato Botvac D4 or the Ecovacs Deebot 960. This is because a laser navigation system is missing. It does a pretty good job of depicting your home without it, but it tends to bump furniture and walls a lot. It should map your rooms when cleaning and clean more efficiently the next time. I noticed that it works better every time. It is also said to clean in an "S" formation, but it seems a bit random. But I don't mind that.

G30 edge shelf and containerAlina Bradford / Digital Trends

Emptying the trash can in vacuum is my least preferred job, and I have to say that the G30's trash can has made things easier. It pulls out easily and opens effortlessly, unlike many other robotic vacuum cleaners I've tested.

Our opinion

The Eufy RoboVac G30 Edge costs $ 399 at the bottom when it comes to robotic vacuum cleaners, but it really impressed me. Everything about this bot is straightforward, and that's exactly what you want when it comes to an automated cleaning device. The app is also fantastic as it is packed with features, but has no glitches and is beautifully designed. Overall, this robot vacuum is a winner.

Are there any better alternatives?

You can find robotic vacuum cleaners that are cheaper, like this for less than $ 200, but I think you'll find it hard to find a vacuum cleaner that can clean with as few issues as the G30 Edge, especially if it does is a brand new model. However, if you're ready to pay more money, consider robot vacuum cleaners that can self-empty, have a laser tracking system, or can act as a robot mop. Here you can see our top offers.

Will it take?

I think so. It is well built and if you have any problems, Eufy has a 30 day return policy.

Should I buy it?

Yes. I really love this robot vacuum and I think you will too.

Editor's recommendations