Roborock S5 Max vs. S6 MaxV - Is the new one worth it?

Question 1

In this article, I present the main differences between the Roborock S5 Max (2020) and the S6 MaxV.

Question 2

Dimensions and Style S5 Max vs. S6 MaxV

The Roborock [url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="S5 Max ",title="S5 Max at Amazon"] and [url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV ",title="S6 MaxV at Amazon"] look basically very similar. The S6 MaxV has, like the (still) older S5, again three buttons on the housing. These can be used to send the Roborock to the charging station, clean a selected area, or turn the Roborock off and on or start cleaning.
The S5 Max, on the other hand, only offers two buttons. However, the same work processes can be activated on the S5 Max via certain combinations. You can find out exactly which combinations these are in the [url="https://support.roborock.com/hc/de/articles/360041262712-Roborock-S5-Max-Bedienungsanleitung",name="Instruction Manual",title="Instruction Manual of the Roborock S5 Max"] on page 81.

The Roborock S6 MaxV also has the hint of vents on the top, which makes it look more dynamic than the S5 Max.

In addition, the S6 MaxV has gotten two "eyes" the new dual-camera technology housed in the front area (more on that later). Psychologically, this makes it more human. What sounds strange, has proven effects on the frequency of purchases. The principle of humanizing products is well known, especially from the automotive industry, where radiator grilles are tailored to different target groups and are designed to arouse specific emotions. So don′t be fooled by the seductive looks of the S6 MaxV. ;)

[url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="S5 Max Image of Roborock S5 Max

",title="Roborock S5 Max at Amazon"]
[url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV Image of Roborock S6 MaxV

",title="Roborock S6 MaxV at Amazon"]

Color-wise, you can choose between black and white for both models. The S6 MaxV is only available in black in Germany so far.

Both models have the same dimensions of 35.3 x 35.3 x 9.65 cm (WTH). The S6 MaxV is only 200g heavier than the S5 Max with a weight of 3.7 kg [topdeals].

Navigation

Both robots navigate primarily using intelligent LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. In this process, a 360-degree rotating laser sensor in the robot vacuum′s laser turret scans and maps its surroundings. The precise mapping of the premises, which is displayed live in the app, allows both Roborocks to perform systematic cleaning with high efficiency, enabling the vacuuming of relatively large areas. In detail, both robots clean an area of about 250m² with just one battery charge. In both, battery has a capacity of 5200 mAh. If the battery charge runs low early, the Roborocks automatically drive to the charging station, charge to 80% and then continue their cleaning.

Additionally, the Roborock S6 MaxV has a dual camera that allows it to detect objects and match them with an existing object database. This matching allows for better obstacle detection than the S5 Max offers, and thus less unwanted collisions or interference while vacuuming. Obstacles are displayed live in the app as you vacuum, so you can have them cleaned up later if necessary.

Thanks to the use of artificial intelligence, the so-called Reactive-AI (Artificial Intelligence), the Roborock learns with each suction operation and can thus optimize its cleaning little by little. As a result, the S6 MaxV finds it easier to get around objects such as vases, lamps, slippers, power strips, food bowls and even dog poop.
The advantage is obvious: As a user, I don′t have to worry as much about preparing the suction process, because the S6 MaxV will go around larger objects, causes less damage (keyword "laptop pulled off the table") and will abort a suction process less often. Disadvantage is on the other hand, that one tends to clean up less and the bypassed areas are then also not cleaned.

It also does not recognize smaller objects, such as Lego bricks or screws. Socks and cables are also only recognized occasionally. However, updates could gradually bring improvement here.

Another risk is data protection. A Chinese vacuum robot that takes pictures of the apartment can give you a queasy feeling. To alleviate this feeling, Roborock promises that recorded data will not be stored, copied or even uploaded to the cloud. On top of that, the robot vacuum is certified by [url="https://www.certipedia.com/quality_marks/0217008049?locale=en",name="TÜV Rheinland",title=""] as a safe smart home product. In the fine print, however, one finds the following statement:

Some optional settings and features may require additional data collection and processing. ([url="https://de.roborock.com/pages/roborock-s6-maxv",name="source",title=""])

In this regard, one receives a separate notice when activating the function in the app:

"If you agree to enable this feature, the device will capture your user ID, network IP address, and video data recorded through the camera. The video data is encrypted and stored only in the device′s memory, it is not stored permanently. They are transferred to the phone over a network only when you want to see the video data in the app (in some network environments, the encrypted video data is transferred through the server). After the transfer is complete, the video data is deleted from the device. In addition, if you have allowed the software to access your microphone, the device will play the audio information captured by the terminal device when you select the "Remote Audio" function (such information is not stored on the device). The audio information stored on the terminal device can be deleted manually. You can revoke your authorization by navigating to "App Settings - Camera Features - Real-Time Video - Real-Time Video Privacy Policy."

The queasy feeling remains for me, even if tablet, PC, smart TV or even voice assistant have the same data processing capabilities. Nevertheless, it is good to know that the Reactive AI camera function can also be deactivated in the S6 MaxV.

One advantage that the camera offers in reverse is the monitoring function: It allows transferring an image in real time to the owner′s cell phone and letting the Roborock drive through the apartment as a small spy. Voice messages up to 15 seconds long can also be recorded and broadcast via the Roborock. To avoid startling other residents, the Roborock can optionally announce the video transmission mode acoustically.

As mentioned, the Roborock S5 Max also scans their home thanks to LiDAR technology, but is definitely more discreet without a camera. Obstacle detection did not turn out much worse than the S6 MaxV in various tests, especially because the dual camera only marginally improves the laser in obstacle detection.

More sensors

Both models have a wide variety of sensors, but are mostly the same in terms of features. The installed sensors include laser distance, ultrasonic radar, collision, edge, drop, wall, e-compass, acceleration, speed, dust bin fan speed sensor, gyroscope, compass and additionally the AI dual camera in the S6 MaxV.

One new feature that only the S5 Max received in the [url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="2020 version",title="S5 Max 2020 version"] is the shock bumper in the laser tower, which reduces bumping against higher edges ([url="https://www.produck.de/quack/3479/unterschied-roborock-s5-max-2019-vs-2020",name="More to it",title=""]). This bumper is also present in the S6 MaxV.

Filter

The filter of the Roborock S6 MaxV and the S5 Max belong to class E11 and are HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air/Arrestance) filters, i.e. they filter suspended particles from the sucked-in air. Thanks to a water-repellent Teflon coating, both filters can be rinsed and cleaned under water. Incidentally, the filters of the S5 Max can also be used in the S6 MaxV.

Brushes

The brushes can be conveniently disassembled on both models. This is an advantage in households where long hair often gets tangled in the brushes.

Room cleaning and multi-card storage

Both devices support selective room cleaning, i.e. rooms are detected by the robot and can be selected individually for cleaning. The sequence can also be specified.

For cleaning multiple floors, up to four cards can be created on both models and individually assigned no-mop and no-go zones. To learn more about creating new cards, see [url="https://www.produck.de/quack/2169/wie-funktioniert-die-mehrkartenspeicherung-beim-xiaomi-roborock-s6-bzw-s5-max",name="here",title="Multi-Card Storage Roborock S5 Max / S6 / S6 MaxV"].

Volume

Both Roborocks differ only marginally in terms of volume. Due to the slightly higher suction power of the S6 MaxV, it produces the slightly higher noise level. The values at a glance:

S5 Max 50 dB - up to approx. 65dB (in balanced mode)
S6 MaxV 58 dB - up to approx. 67dB (in balanced mode)

Wiping function

The wiping function is the same for both models: both robots offer a tank with a capacity of approx. 300 ml and have an electric water pump. This makes it possible to adjust the amount of water individually for each room in 4 different levels and thus adapt it to the surface. Depending on the water setting, the amount of water is sufficient for approx. 90-200 m² of wiping area.

Suction power

The Roborock S6 MaxV offers 25% more suction power than its predecessor, i.e. 2500 Pa vs. 2000 Pa for the S5 Max. This gives it an advantage on carpets in particular. However, both are generally very well positioned in terms of suction power and the difference is moderate.

Both have carpet detection, via which suction power on carpets is increased and carpets are bypassed when a mop is installed. In addition, no-mop zones are avoided when the mop is installed.

Price and price history

The Roborock S5 Max is currently available for around 300-400€ ([url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="S5 Max (2020 version) at Amazon",title="S5 Max at Amazon"]).
The S6 MaxV, on the other hand, ranges between 500 and 600€ in purchase price ([url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV at Amazon",title="S6 MaxV at Amazon"]).

The price drop for Roborock models is usually quite high. In the past, new models were usually presented annually in the spring. Shortly after, the prices of the old model drop. In addition, good bargains can be snatched up on promotion days, such as Black Friday. I would therefore buy a new Roborock robot vacuum cleaner in May, October or November, even if good prices can be observed from time to time.

Our conclusion on the comparison of the S5 Max vs. S6 MaxV

Pragmatically speaking, the [url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="Roborock S5 Max ",title="S5 Max at Amazon"] offers the same as the S6 MaxV , except for the camera with object detection and the monitoring function. For this, it is a good 150-200 euros cheaper to have.
Those who value great comfort or the latest technology should take the [url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV ",title="S6 MaxV at Amazon"]. Busy households with children or animals will also benefit from the S6 MaxV′s obstacle detection. This will also drop noticeably in price in the near future. Prices below €400 can already be expected in a year′s time.

In my opinion, the S5 Max is currently the absolute price-performance winner on the market. It offers a precise navigation, adjustable swipe function and extensive features in the app. You cannot go wrong with a purchase here.

I hope to have helped you with your decision with this comparison. If I have overlooked an argument, I am happy about your comment. Gladly also with a short statement, which decision you finally made and what was your motivation for it.[asin="B088WC24MD",type="standard"][asin="B08DHWLZSR",type="standard"]

Answer 1

Dimensions and Style S5 Max vs. S6 MaxV

The Roborock [url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="S5 Max ",title="S5 Max at Amazon"] and [url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV ",title="S6 MaxV at Amazon"] look basically very similar. The S6 MaxV has, like the (still) older S5, again three buttons on the housing. These can be used to send the Roborock to the charging station, clean a selected area, or turn the Roborock off and on or start cleaning.
The S5 Max, on the other hand, only offers two buttons. However, the same work processes can be activated on the S5 Max via certain combinations. You can find out exactly which combinations these are in the [url="https://support.roborock.com/hc/de/articles/360041262712-Roborock-S5-Max-Bedienungsanleitung",name="Instruction Manual",title="Instruction Manual of the Roborock S5 Max"] on page 81.

The Roborock S6 MaxV also has the hint of vents on the top, which makes it look more dynamic than the S5 Max.

In addition, the S6 MaxV has gotten two "eyes" the new dual-camera technology housed in the front area (more on that later). Psychologically, this makes it more human. What sounds strange, has proven effects on the frequency of purchases. The principle of humanizing products is well known, especially from the automotive industry, where radiator grilles are tailored to different target groups and are designed to arouse specific emotions. So don′t be fooled by the seductive looks of the S6 MaxV. ;)

[url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="S5 Max Image of Roborock S5 Max

",title="Roborock S5 Max at Amazon"]
[url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV Image of Roborock S6 MaxV

",title="Roborock S6 MaxV at Amazon"]

Color-wise, you can choose between black and white for both models. The S6 MaxV is only available in black in Germany so far.

Both models have the same dimensions of 35.3 x 35.3 x 9.65 cm (WTH). The S6 MaxV is only 200g heavier than the S5 Max with a weight of 3.7 kg [topdeals].

Navigation

Both robots navigate primarily using intelligent LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology. In this process, a 360-degree rotating laser sensor in the robot vacuum′s laser turret scans and maps its surroundings. The precise mapping of the premises, which is displayed live in the app, allows both Roborocks to perform systematic cleaning with high efficiency, enabling the vacuuming of relatively large areas. In detail, both robots clean an area of about 250m² with just one battery charge. In both, battery has a capacity of 5200 mAh. If the battery charge runs low early, the Roborocks automatically drive to the charging station, charge to 80% and then continue their cleaning.

Additionally, the Roborock S6 MaxV has a dual camera that allows it to detect objects and match them with an existing object database. This matching allows for better obstacle detection than the S5 Max offers, and thus less unwanted collisions or interference while vacuuming. Obstacles are displayed live in the app as you vacuum, so you can have them cleaned up later if necessary.

Thanks to the use of artificial intelligence, the so-called Reactive-AI (Artificial Intelligence), the Roborock learns with each suction operation and can thus optimize its cleaning little by little. As a result, the S6 MaxV finds it easier to get around objects such as vases, lamps, slippers, power strips, food bowls and even dog poop.
The advantage is obvious: As a user, I don′t have to worry as much about preparing the suction process, because the S6 MaxV will go around larger objects, causes less damage (keyword "laptop pulled off the table") and will abort a suction process less often. Disadvantage is on the other hand, that one tends to clean up less and the bypassed areas are then also not cleaned.

It also does not recognize smaller objects, such as Lego bricks or screws. Socks and cables are also only recognized occasionally. However, updates could gradually bring improvement here.

Another risk is data protection. A Chinese vacuum robot that takes pictures of the apartment can give you a queasy feeling. To alleviate this feeling, Roborock promises that recorded data will not be stored, copied or even uploaded to the cloud. On top of that, the robot vacuum is certified by [url="https://www.certipedia.com/quality_marks/0217008049?locale=en",name="TÜV Rheinland",title=""] as a safe smart home product. In the fine print, however, one finds the following statement:

Some optional settings and features may require additional data collection and processing. ([url="https://de.roborock.com/pages/roborock-s6-maxv",name="source",title=""])

In this regard, one receives a separate notice when activating the function in the app:

"If you agree to enable this feature, the device will capture your user ID, network IP address, and video data recorded through the camera. The video data is encrypted and stored only in the device′s memory, it is not stored permanently. They are transferred to the phone over a network only when you want to see the video data in the app (in some network environments, the encrypted video data is transferred through the server). After the transfer is complete, the video data is deleted from the device. In addition, if you have allowed the software to access your microphone, the device will play the audio information captured by the terminal device when you select the "Remote Audio" function (such information is not stored on the device). The audio information stored on the terminal device can be deleted manually. You can revoke your authorization by navigating to "App Settings - Camera Features - Real-Time Video - Real-Time Video Privacy Policy."

The queasy feeling remains for me, even if tablet, PC, smart TV or even voice assistant have the same data processing capabilities. Nevertheless, it is good to know that the Reactive AI camera function can also be deactivated in the S6 MaxV.

One advantage that the camera offers in reverse is the monitoring function: It allows transferring an image in real time to the owner′s cell phone and letting the Roborock drive through the apartment as a small spy. Voice messages up to 15 seconds long can also be recorded and broadcast via the Roborock. To avoid startling other residents, the Roborock can optionally announce the video transmission mode acoustically.

As mentioned, the Roborock S5 Max also scans their home thanks to LiDAR technology, but is definitely more discreet without a camera. Obstacle detection did not turn out much worse than the S6 MaxV in various tests, especially because the dual camera only marginally improves the laser in obstacle detection.

More sensors

Both models have a wide variety of sensors, but are mostly the same in terms of features. The installed sensors include laser distance, ultrasonic radar, collision, edge, drop, wall, e-compass, acceleration, speed, dust bin fan speed sensor, gyroscope, compass and additionally the AI dual camera in the S6 MaxV.

One new feature that only the S5 Max received in the [url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="2020 version",title="S5 Max 2020 version"] is the shock bumper in the laser tower, which reduces bumping against higher edges ([url="https://www.produck.de/quack/3479/unterschied-roborock-s5-max-2019-vs-2020",name="More to it",title=""]). This bumper is also present in the S6 MaxV.

Filter

The filter of the Roborock S6 MaxV and the S5 Max belong to class E11 and are HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air/Arrestance) filters, i.e. they filter suspended particles from the sucked-in air. Thanks to a water-repellent Teflon coating, both filters can be rinsed and cleaned under water. Incidentally, the filters of the S5 Max can also be used in the S6 MaxV.

Brushes

The brushes can be conveniently disassembled on both models. This is an advantage in households where long hair often gets tangled in the brushes.

Room cleaning and multi-card storage

Both devices support selective room cleaning, i.e. rooms are detected by the robot and can be selected individually for cleaning. The sequence can also be specified.

For cleaning multiple floors, up to four cards can be created on both models and individually assigned no-mop and no-go zones. To learn more about creating new cards, see [url="https://www.produck.de/quack/2169/wie-funktioniert-die-mehrkartenspeicherung-beim-xiaomi-roborock-s6-bzw-s5-max",name="here",title="Multi-Card Storage Roborock S5 Max / S6 / S6 MaxV"].

Volume

Both Roborocks differ only marginally in terms of volume. Due to the slightly higher suction power of the S6 MaxV, it produces the slightly higher noise level. The values at a glance:

S5 Max 50 dB - up to approx. 65dB (in balanced mode)
S6 MaxV 58 dB - up to approx. 67dB (in balanced mode)

Wiping function

The wiping function is the same for both models: both robots offer a tank with a capacity of approx. 300 ml and have an electric water pump. This makes it possible to adjust the amount of water individually for each room in 4 different levels and thus adapt it to the surface. Depending on the water setting, the amount of water is sufficient for approx. 90-200 m² of wiping area.

Suction power

The Roborock S6 MaxV offers 25% more suction power than its predecessor, i.e. 2500 Pa vs. 2000 Pa for the S5 Max. This gives it an advantage on carpets in particular. However, both are generally very well positioned in terms of suction power and the difference is moderate.

Both have carpet detection, via which suction power on carpets is increased and carpets are bypassed when a mop is installed. In addition, no-mop zones are avoided when the mop is installed.

Price and price history

The Roborock S5 Max is currently available for around 300-400€ ([url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="S5 Max (2020 version) at Amazon",title="S5 Max at Amazon"]).
The S6 MaxV, on the other hand, ranges between 500 and 600€ in purchase price ([url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV at Amazon",title="S6 MaxV at Amazon"]).

The price drop for Roborock models is usually quite high. In the past, new models were usually presented annually in the spring. Shortly after, the prices of the old model drop. In addition, good bargains can be snatched up on promotion days, such as Black Friday. I would therefore buy a new Roborock robot vacuum cleaner in May, October or November, even if good prices can be observed from time to time.

Our conclusion on the comparison of the S5 Max vs. S6 MaxV

Pragmatically speaking, the [url="https://amzn.to/3698JJy",name="Roborock S5 Max ",title="S5 Max at Amazon"] offers the same as the S6 MaxV , except for the camera with object detection and the monitoring function. For this, it is a good 150-200 euros cheaper to have.
Those who value great comfort or the latest technology should take the [url="https://amzn.to/366dK5z",name="S6 MaxV ",title="S6 MaxV at Amazon"]. Busy households with children or animals will also benefit from the S6 MaxV′s obstacle detection. This will also drop noticeably in price in the near future. Prices below €400 can already be expected in a year′s time.

In my opinion, the S5 Max is currently the absolute price-performance winner on the market. It offers a precise navigation, adjustable swipe function and extensive features in the app. You cannot go wrong with a purchase here.

I hope to have helped you with your decision with this comparison. If I have overlooked an argument, I am happy about your comment. Gladly also with a short statement, which decision you finally made and what was your motivation for it.[asin="B088WC24MD",type="standard"][asin="B08DHWLZSR",type="standard"]