Liectroux WS-1080: A compact robotic window cleaner from AliExpress

This article will review the Liectroux WS-1080 robotic window cleaner. It's priced at around $150 at the time of writing, which is affordable compared to similar models. At the same time, its functionality is practically on par with top-end models, and in some ways, it even outperforms them. I'll cover everything in detail, including testing the Liectroux WS-1080 on windows of various sizes. So, let's get started!

Equipment

Let's start with the package contents. The robot arrived in a compact box. It contained:

• the window cleaner himself;
• control panel;
• a set of spare microfiber cloths;
• operating instructions with translation into Russian;
• suction cup on the window for attaching a safety rope;
• a spray bottle for spraying cleaning solution onto wipes;
• safety rope with carabiner;
• power unit;
• cord for connecting the power supply to the network;
• and an extension cord for connecting the robot to the power supply, its length is 4 meters.

Appearance

Now let's look at the window cleaning robot itself. The Liectroux WS-1080 is square. It's black and has a glossy finish. A handle is located on top for positioning the robot on the window. This handle houses a single start/pause button.

The model's main highlight is its compact size. The length and width are only 23 cm, which is several centimeters smaller than many similar models.

To the right of the handle is a power connector for the robot. Neatly hidden under the handle is a tether attachment point for the safety cable and a power button. To open this compartment, simply press gently on the cover.

Let's take a look at the Liectroux WS-1080's underside. We see that the cleaning module is divided into three sections: a rectangular central section and two narrow inserts. The purpose of this design isn't entirely clear.

The wipes are attached with Velcro. The center contains the motor vents, which suction the robot to the window, and the tracks, which propel it. Four sensors are installed in the corners, which allow the robot to locate window frames and determine its position.

Overall, there are no complaints about the Liectroux WS-1080's build or design. The robotic window cleaner is well-made and looks very presentable.

Yes, it's also worth noting that when powered on, the case lights up with stylish blue backlighting. Here's what it looks like:

Technical specifications

The main characteristics of the Liectroux WS-1080, as declared by the manufacturer:

• Battery: Li-Ion, 650 mAh.
• Suction power 2800 Pa.
• Power consumption: 80 W.
• Battery life: 20 min.
• Minimum window size: 60*60 cm.
• Maximum window size: 300*300 cm.
• Dimensions: 230*230*93 mm.
• Weight 1.4 kg.
• Noise level: 60 dB.
• Maximum surface difference: 1.5 mm.
• Travel speed: 2.4 min/1 sq.m.
• Number of operating modes: 3.

Functions

The Liectroux WS-1080 is controlled using a remote control and a proprietary mobile application.

Let's start with an overview of the app's features. You can download it using the QR code found in the instructions. The robot connects to the app via Bluetooth each time it's launched, but the connection is quick. In the app, you can:

1. Calibrate the robot's sensors, which I recommend doing before each launch.
2. Run a Z-shaped or N-shaped algorithm for moving around the window.
3. Manually control the robot and start automatic cleaning mode.
4. And stop cleaning.

There is also a button, apparently for water supply, but it is not active for this model, perhaps this was made for a different robot.

The remote control duplicates all the same functions, plus a code matching button, as described in the instructions. But its actual purpose is unclear.

Getting ready for work

Before we begin testing, I'll show you how to set up the Liectroux WS-1080 window cleaning robot. First, assemble the safety harness. Attach the safety cable to the suction cup, then attach the other end with a carabiner to the robot.

It's worth noting that the safety net doesn't necessarily have to be installed using a suction cup. You can also attach the safety net to the heating pipes under the window or to any other securely attached structure.

The next step is connecting the power supply. The plug is connected and secured by twisting it into the socket on the robot. On the other end, the same cord is connected to the power supply. The power supply itself is then connected to a separate cord by a power outlet. It's really quite simple.

After all these steps, it's recommended to spray the wipes with cleaning solution. However, the manufacturer doesn't include this solution with the robot, only providing a bottle. You'll need to purchase window cleaning solution separately.

And an important point: you need to use trial and error to find the optimal level of cloth wetting. If it's too wet, the robot won't be able to move on glass and the tracks will slip, even though the manufacturer claims the new track material has better traction. However, with dry cloths, the cleaning performance of dirt and dust won't be as good.

Testing

You can watch a detailed test of the robotic window cleaner in question in our video:

Window size

First, we'll check the Liectroux WS-1080's performance on windows of varying widths from the inside. Before each robot launch, the sensors were calibrated according to the algorithm described in the instructions.

On a large window with a width of 110 cm, the robot copes with the task without any problems.

A medium-sized window with a width of 40 cm also did not cause any problems.

This robot can even clean a narrow 30-centimeter window, although the manufacturer's instructions state a minimum window size of 60 x 60 cm. In this regard, the robot pleasantly surprised.

Window cleaning quality

Now let's test how the robot handles cleaning a large window from the outside after the winter. The window is quite dirty when it's initially clean. We install the Liectroux WS-1080, attach the safety net, and get started.

And here I'll tell you about all the nuances of the Liectroux WS-1080:

Firstly, like other robotic window cleaners, it does not clean the small part of the window in the corners, since the robot has sensors installed in the corners.

Secondly, this model has obvious navigation issues. While cleaning, it can get stuck in corners, moving back and forth over a small area. It can also simply stop for a while and remain there until the operating mode is manually switched. As a result, due to the inconsistent navigation algorithm, unfinished areas can remain, which can then be finished by manually directing the robot to the spot.

And the third and final issue is slippage on the work surface. If the wipes are completely dry, there are no problems. If I wet them with water and wring them out thoroughly, the robot in my case couldn't move at all across the glass. However, if I sprinkle a little water on the wipes, the Liectroux WS-1080 moves across the window without a problem in 4 out of 5 cases. As mentioned earlier, it takes trial and error to find the optimal level of wetness, which isn't very convenient.

Overall, after the robot completed several cleaning cycles, the window was much cleaner, though some dirt remained along the frames and in the corners. So, the window cleaning performance is average.

Application on tiles

It's also worth noting that the Liectroux WS-1080 can be used on other smooth vertical surfaces, such as tiles. You can also use it to clean bathroom walls, such as those above the ceiling, where you can't easily reach.

Operation in emergency mode

Finally, I'll show you how the Liectroux WS-1080 behaves when disconnected from the power grid. For example, if the power goes out in your apartment while the robot is cleaning a window, the start/pause button will flash and an audible signal will sound. In this mode, the robot can remain on the window for up to 20 minutes, enough time to detect the problem and remove it promptly.

Let's sum it up

The Liectroux WS-1080 window cleaning robot was thoroughly reviewed and tested. I'd like to share my personal opinion on this device. I liked the following:

1. Compact body dimensions.
2. Stylish design.
3. Controlled via app and remote control.
4. Suitable for large and small windows.
5. The price is below the market average.
6. There is a suction cup for attaching the insurance to the window.

As for the disadvantages, I would like to highlight the following:

1. Problems with navigation.
2. The tracks do not have very good grip on the surface when the cloth is wet, which results in slipping on the window.

It's worth noting that the identified shortcomings also appear repeatedly in reviews of this robot on AliExpress. So, this isn't an isolated incident. Therefore, my opinion on the Liectroux WS-1080 after testing is mixed. It certainly has some advantages over similar products, but its drawbacks are serious, and as a result, I can't confidently call this window cleaning robot the best value for money or even a good choice. I hope the manufacturer will at least address the navigation issue, and then the buyer will be able to adapt to the nuances of operation.

That concludes our review of the Liectroux WS-1080. If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments. Happy shopping, everyone. Bye!