Roborock S4max vs S5 Max: Which Is Right for You?

Versus
By Maya Collins May 31, 2026
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Choosing the right robot vacuum can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with similar-sounding models from a reputable brand like Roborock. If you’re weighing the options between the Roborock S4 Max and the S5 Max, you’re in the right place. Both offer impressive cleaning power, but subtle differences can make one a better fit for your home and lifestyle.

The S4 Max is a fantastic workhorse, known for its robust suction and advanced navigation. It’s designed to tackle everyday messes with efficiency and smart mapping. On the other hand, the S5 Max steps things up with enhanced mopping capabilities, making it a more versatile all-in-one cleaning solution.

We’ll break down the key features, performance, and value of both the Roborock S4 Max and the S5 Max. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision so you can enjoy a cleaner home with less effort.

Specs at a Glance

Featureroborock s4maxs5 max
Suction Power2000 Pa2000 Pa
NavigationLidarLidar
MappingYesYes
MoppingNoYes
Dustbin Capacity460 ml460 ml
Water Tank CapacityN/A140 ml
Battery Capacity5200 mAh5200 mAh
RuntimeUp to 150 minutesUp to 150 minutes
Auto-Recharge & ResumeYesYes
App ControlYesYes
Voice Assistant SupportYesYes
Carpet BoostNoYes

Feature-by-Feature Breakdown

Navigation & Mapping

  • Roborock S4max: Utilizes advanced LiDAR navigation for precise room mapping and efficient cleaning paths. It can save multiple floor maps and allows for room-specific cleaning and no-go zones. Its navigation is generally reliable and quick.
  • S5 Max: Also features LiDAR navigation, offering similar capabilities for mapping, room selection, and no-go zones. It’s known for its intelligent path planning, ensuring thorough coverage. The S5 Max’s mapping is highly accurate and adaptable.
  • Winner: Tie

Suction Power

  • Roborock S4max: Offers up to 2000Pa of suction power. This is sufficient for most everyday debris on hard floors and low-pile carpets. It struggles with deeply embedded dirt in thicker carpets.
  • S5 Max: Boasts a stronger suction power of up to 2000Pa, with an additional “Max+” mode that can boost it further for carpets. This enhanced suction makes it more effective at picking up finer dust and debris from various surfaces.
  • Winner: s5 max

Mopping Functionality

  • Roborock S4max: Does not include a mopping function. It is purely a vacuum cleaner.
  • S5 Max: Features an advanced electronic water tank and pump, allowing for adjustable water flow. It can vacuum and mop simultaneously, with customizable water levels for different floor types. This is a significant advantage for combined cleaning needs.
  • Winner: s5 max

Battery Life & Runtime

  • Roborock S4max: Equipped with a 5200mAh battery, providing up to 150 minutes of runtime on a single charge. This is ample for cleaning large homes. It automatically returns to its dock to recharge when needed.
  • S5 Max: Also features a 5200mAh battery, offering a similar runtime of up to 150 minutes. It also has the intelligent recharge and resume function. Performance can vary based on suction and mopping settings.
  • Winner: Tie

Dustbin & Water Tank Capacity

  • Roborock S4max: Comes with a 640ml dustbin, which is quite large and reduces the frequency of emptying.
  • S5 Max: Has a 460ml dustbin and a 290ml electronic water tank. While the dustbin is smaller than the S4 Max, the integrated mopping system means the water tank is a crucial component.
  • Winner: roborock s4max

Carpet Boost

  • Roborock S4max: Automatically increases suction power when it detects carpet. This is a standard feature for effective carpet cleaning.
  • S5 Max: Also features automatic carpet boost, increasing suction power significantly when on carpets. Its stronger overall suction and mopping separation make it more versatile on carpeted surfaces.
  • Winner: s5 max

App Control & Smart Features

  • Roborock S4max: Offers comprehensive app control, including custom cleaning schedules, room selection, no-go zones, and invisible walls. The app is user-friendly and provides detailed cleaning history.
  • S5 Max: Provides similar advanced app control with all the features of the S4 Max. The added benefit is the ability to control mopping intensity and water flow directly through the app, offering finer control over cleaning.
  • Winner: s5 max

Design & Build Quality

  • Roborock S4max: Features a sleek, minimalist design with a durable build. It’s designed for optimal airflow and dust collection. Its focus is purely on vacuuming efficiency.
  • S5 Max: Shares a similar aesthetic and robust construction. The integration of the mopping system adds a layer of complexity but is well-executed, maintaining a premium feel.
  • Winner: Tie

Winner by Category

CategoryWinner
Vacuuming PerformanceTie
Navigation & MappingTie
Mopping Capabilitys5 max
Carpet Performances5 max
Value for Money (General)roborock s4max
All-in-One Cleanings5 max

What They Have in Common

  • Navigation System: Both the Roborock S4 Max and S5 Max utilize advanced Lidar navigation technology. This allows them to precisely map your home, plan efficient cleaning routes, and avoid obstacles with remarkable accuracy.
  • Powerful Suction: Both models boast a strong suction power of 2000 Pa, ensuring they can effectively pick up dust, debris, and pet hair from various floor types. This makes them capable cleaners for everyday messes.
  • Large Dustbin Capacity: They share the same generous 460 ml dustbin capacity, meaning you won’t have to empty it as frequently during cleaning sessions, especially in larger homes.
  • Long Runtime: Both vacuums are equipped with a 5200 mAh battery, providing an impressive runtime of up to 150 minutes on a single charge. This is ample time to clean most homes without interruption.
  • Auto-Recharge and Resume: A key convenience feature they both offer is the ability to automatically return to their charging dock when the battery is low and then resume cleaning from where they left off once recharged.
  • App Control and Voice Assistant Support: Both robots can be fully controlled via a smartphone app, allowing for scheduling, zone cleaning, and customization. They also integrate with popular voice assistants for hands-free operation.

Roborock S4Max Vs S5 Max Buying Guide

Who is the Roborock S4 Max for?

The Roborock S4 Max is an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers who need a reliable and efficient robot vacuum for general floor cleaning. It excels at vacuuming carpets and hard floors, making it suitable for homes with mixed flooring types. If you prioritize strong suction power, intelligent navigation, and app control without needing advanced mopping capabilities, the S4 Max is a solid contender that offers great value for its price point. (See Also: Nest Cam Vs Ring )

Who is the Roborock S5 Max for?

The Roborock S5 Max is designed for users who desire a more comprehensive cleaning solution. Its standout feature is the integrated mopping system, allowing it to vacuum and mop simultaneously or independently. This makes it ideal for households looking to tackle both dust and sticky messes on hard floors. If you’re willing to invest a bit more for added versatility and a more advanced cleaning experience, the S5 Max is a compelling option.

Key Differences to Consider

The most significant difference lies in mopping functionality. The S4 Max is a dedicated vacuum, whereas the S5 Max boasts a sophisticated two-in-one vacuum and mop system with adjustable water flow. Additionally, the S5 Max generally offers slightly more refined navigation and obstacle avoidance due to its advanced sensors. Consider your primary cleaning needs: if mopping is a must, the S5 Max is the clear winner. For pure vacuuming power and efficiency at a lower cost, the S4 Max shines.

Pricing and Value Proposition

The Roborock S4 Max typically sits at a more accessible price point, making it a fantastic value for its robust vacuuming performance and smart features. The S5 Max, with its added mopping capabilities and slightly more advanced hardware, commands a higher price. Your decision hinges on whether the extra cost for the mopping function and enhanced features of the S5 Max aligns with your budget and cleaning priorities. Both offer excellent performance for their respective price categories. (See Also: Lose It Vs Weight Watchers )

Who Should Buy What?

Buy roborock s4max If…

  • Your primary need is efficient vacuuming without mopping functionality.
  • You have primarily hard floors or low-pile carpets and don’t require advanced carpet cleaning features.
  • You are looking for a highly capable robot vacuum with excellent navigation and smart features at a potentially more accessible price point.
  • You prefer a simpler, dedicated vacuuming experience without the added complexity of mopping.

Buy s5 max If…

  • You want a versatile cleaning solution that can both vacuum and mop your floors.
  • You have a mix of floor types, including carpets that you want the robot to avoid during mopping, and hard floors that benefit from a scrub.
  • You are willing to invest in a robot that offers a more comprehensive cleaning experience and advanced mopping capabilities.
  • You appreciate the added convenience of a robot that can tackle spills and light stains with its mopping function.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Roborock S4 Max have a mopping function?

No, the Roborock S4 Max is a dedicated robot vacuum cleaner and does not come equipped with a mopping function. Its primary focus is on powerful suction and intelligent navigation for effective vacuuming of both carpets and hard floors.

Can the Roborock S5 Max vacuum and mop at the same time?

Yes, the Roborock S5 Max is designed to vacuum and mop simultaneously. It features an electronically controlled water tank that allows you to adjust the water flow rate, ensuring an optimal clean for different floor types and levels of dirt.

Which robot is better for pet hair?

Both the S4 Max and S5 Max are generally good at picking up pet hair due to their strong suction power and effective brush designs. However, the S5 Max’s ability to also mop can help to further lift and clean away any dander or residue left behind by pets, making it slightly more comprehensive for pet owners. (See Also: Bose Quiet Comfort Vs Airpods Pro )

How does their navigation compare?

Both robots utilize advanced LiDAR navigation for efficient mapping and methodical cleaning paths. The S5 Max may have a slight edge in obstacle avoidance due to its sensor array, but both are highly competent at navigating complex home layouts and returning to their docks.

Which one offers better app control and features?

Both robots offer robust app control through the Roborock app. You can set no-go zones, clean specific rooms, schedule cleanings, and view maps. The S5 Max’s app may offer slightly more granular control over mopping settings, like water flow adjustments for different rooms.

Final Verdict

The Roborock S4 Max is a superb choice for pure vacuuming efficiency and value, excelling on carpets and hard floors with intelligent navigation. However, the Roborock S5 Max elevates the cleaning experience with its integrated and highly capable mopping system, making it a true all-in-one solution for homes seeking both vacuuming and mopping prowess. If your budget allows and you desire the convenience of a combined cleaning robot, the S5 Max is the superior option.

Winner: Roborock S5 Max