ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner Review

Are robot vacuum cleaners worth it? Most would say yes. For one thing, they’ll greatly reduce your cleaning time. Instead of having to pull out the vacuum, you can just get the robot to do it for you. The best part? You can set regular cleaning schedules. That way, your floor will always be kept clean and tidy.

That’s not all, their compact design means that they can easily fit into tight areas. For example, most models can fit under furniture such as sofas. On top of that, they can clean multiple surfaces such as hardwood, carpet, laminate, and tile.

Considering that, it’s not surprising to know that more and more people are opting for these devices. Keep in mind, however, that they can be expensive. For instance, some can set you back over a thousand dollars.

Fortunately, there are some affordable options. Take the iLIFE V3s, for example, you can bring it home for under $200. How well does it work? What are its main features? Does it have any major drawbacks? Why not find out by reading this post? Because that’s what we’ll be discussing below!

The ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner

ILIFE is a technology company that specializes in cleaning robots. Aside from the V series, they also have an A series, Shinebot Series, and EASINE Series, all of which are meant to make cleaning the house easier. While they might not be as “big” compared to some of the other companies out there, their products are sold in over 30 countries worldwide. For those who are interested, you can find their robots on Amazon among other sites.

Product Description

The ILIFE V3s is a robot vacuum that you can use for both carpet and hard floors. Featuring a low-profile design, it can easily reach under sofas and other furniture, where dirt and dust tends to accumulate. You won’t have to worry about it ramming into things either as it comes with three built-in infrared sensors that allow it to detect stairs and objects. And while it can’t be used with an app, it does come with a remote control that you can use to control the robot.

What’s In the Box?

Here’s what you’ll get with the ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner:

• 1 ILIFE V3s Robot
• 1 Charging Dock with Power Cord
• 1 Remote Control
• 1 Cleaning Tool
• 2 Extra Side Brushes
• 2 High-Efficiency Filters

First, let’s talk about the anatomy of the robot. On the top, there’s a clean button, which you can use to start a cleaning session. And if you flip it over, you’ll see two small brushes on the side along with the wheels. As for the dustbin, it’s located in the center of the unit. To access it, you have to first lift up the middle cover. Once it’s open, you’ll be able to take out the dustbin, which has the HEPA filter inside.

Then there’s the charging dock. If anything, it’s a staple with these types of robots. Basically, it’s the thing that will charge your device. Simply plug it into the wall with the power cord and you’re good to go.

Next, there’s the remote control, which comes with various buttons that you can use to control the V3s. More specifically, there’s a plan button (to schedule cleanings), clock button, spot button, and edge button. If you want, you can also control the robot directly using the directional buttons. And when it’s time for the robot to go home, you can press the home button.

Last but not least, the robot comes with a few spare parts—that being two extra side brushes and a HEPA filter.

Smart Features

Infrared Sensors

The ILIFE V3s Pro is equipped with 10 sets of front infrared sensors that allow it to recognize and avoid obstacles such as tables and chairs. Also, it’s capable of detecting and avoiding stairs and other “cliffs.”

Scheduled Cleanings

The V3s Pro might not have a mobile app, but you can still schedule cleanings ahead of time with the remote control. That way, you won’t even have to turn it on—it’ll start cleaning as soon as it reaches the preset time.

Auto-Charging

The V3s Pro will automatically seek out the charging station when the battery gets low. It’s important to note, however, that it doesn’t come with a resume function. In other words, it won’t continue its previous job even after being charged.

Some Drawbacks

The ILIFE V3s Pro is a decent device, however, it still has its drawbacks. Here’s what you need to know.

Small Dustbin

The robot has a very small dust bin so you’ll have to empty it frequently, especially if you have pets. If you don’t, it’ll keep running and the dirt will get pushed out of the bottom and onto the floor again.

Random Cleaning Pattern 

The V3s Pro does not have the ability to map your house. As a result, it will clean in a random pattern. Depending on the size of the area, there may be some missed spots.

It Can Get Stuck 

Many people have experienced issues where the robot vacuum will get stuck on things like cords and rugs. Not only that, but it can get stuck under furniture too. Given that, it’s best to clear the area before turning it on.

Difficulty Returning Home 

Every now and then, the V3s Pro will have difficulty finding and returning to the charging station. Eventually, the battery will run out and you’ll have to return it to the base manually.

Not the Best For Carpets 

The robot vacuum doesn’t run that well on the carpet. For one thing, there’s no brush roll so it won’t be able to lift hair from the floor. Also, there’s a chance that it can get stuck on the carpet fibers (same for area rugs).

Dustbin Is Difficult to Clean 

The dustbin isn’t the easiest to clean. More specifically, it’s hard to empty the interior trap that’s inside. For some reason, it’s really wedged in there so you have to take it out with brute force. At the same time, you don’t want to use too much force, otherwise, you risk breaking the handle.

Suction Could Be Better 

The suction isn’t the strongest so don’t expect it to pick up things like cereal or dog food. Also, it tends to leave behind fuzzies if you’re using it on carpet (for some reason, it just won’t pick them up no matter how many times it goes over the area).

Remote Control Doesn’t Always Work 

The direction buttons on the remote don’t always work. Half the time, they’ll ignore the command entirely, which renders them useless.

How Well Does It Clean?

The ILIFE v3s Pro is decent at cleaning as long as you have hard flooring such as hardwood, tile, laminate (like we said earlier, it’s not the best for carpet). The suction is strong enough to capture dust, dirt, and other small bits. Larger debris such as hair, however, will likely remain on the floor.

Keep in mind, however, that you will have to “robot-proof” the area before cleaning otherwise, it’ll get stuck on cords, cables, etc.

Who Would We Recommend It To?

• People who have hardwood, laminate tile, etc
• People who don’t have pets

How to Use the ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Cleaner

The V3s Pro will need to be charged prior to its first job. In other words, you want to first set up the charging station. All you have to do is plug the cord into an outlet. Afterward, place the robot on the dock and it will begin to charge.

Once the battery is fully charged, you can run the robot by pressing the clean button that’s on the unit. Alternatively, you can use the remote control. We recommend the latter as it’ll let you select your cleaning mode. If you want, you can also set up a cleaning schedule.

And that’s about it! Don’t forget to empty the dustbin regularly, otherwise, its contents will spill out onto the floor.

Regular Maintenance

Side Brushes: The side brushes should be cleaned every week or so (or when they get dirty). Consider replacing them every 2-3 months.

Dustbin: The dustbin should be cleaned and emptied after each use. The same thing goes for the filter. To clean it, rinse it under clean water. Wait until it’s completely dry before replacing.

Sensors: The sensors should be wiped clean after each use.

Front Wheels: Debris can get stuck on the front wheels. When that happens, pull the wheel up vertically to clean.

Cost and Pricing Information

The ILIFE V3s Pro is one of those robot vacuum cleaners that you can get for under $200. At the time of this writing, it’s listed for $159.99 on Amazon. As if that wasn’t cheap enough, there’s also a $20 off coupon that you can use, which will bring your total to $140. Shipping is also free as with most Amazon products.

ILIFE does offer spare parts in their shop. For example, you can get extra side brushes, bristle brushes, batteries, or filters. Keep in mind, however, that they’re not always in stock.