Hobot S6 PRO: a robotic window cleaner with two vibrating mops and dual water sprays

This review examines the new Hobot S6 Pro window cleaning robot. The device features a dual polishing module, which, combined with a two-sided spray of cleaning fluid, has taken window cleaning robots to a new level after a two-year lull in this technology. Additionally, thanks to its unique design, the Hobot S6 Pro is better at cleaning corners and supports creative voice commands and control via a proprietary mobile app. For such a feature set, you'll have to pay around $350. Below, I'll thoroughly test the Hobot S6 Pro, highlight its pros and cons, and then express my opinion on whether this window cleaning robot is worth buying. Let's get started!

Equipment

The robot arrived in this branded box:

The package includes:

1. The window cleaning robot itself.
2. 3 sets of napkins (6 pcs.).
3. Power unit.
4. Adapter for connecting the power supply to the network.
5. Extension cord.
6. Remote control with batteries.
7. Branded cleaning liquid.
8. Two spare water sprayers.
9. Documentation for the robot in Russian.

Overall, the kit is good. I was pleased to see that cleaning fluid was included. However, I definitely recommend buying additional wipes right away, as they're only enough for a full wash of both doors at best.

Appearance

Now let's take a look at the Hobot S6 Pro's design. It's square-shaped and comes in white. The body is 89 mm high.

 

We see water tanks on both sides, each holding 26 ml. Ultrasonic liquid atomizers are built into the tanks.

The Start/Pause button is located on the top of the case. Toward the bottom right corner, we see a threaded power connector and a power switch.

Let's take a look at how the Hobot S6 Pro cleaning module works.

Vacuum sensors are installed in the corners. They are offset from the edge and operate through special holes in the cleaning cloth. This improves the cleaning quality of windows in corners, minimizing the blind spot.

Also, mechanical touch sensors are installed in the corners on the outside of the robot, which work on the same principle as the bumper on a robot vacuum cleaner.

The wipes are held in place on vibrating platforms by Velcro. Ventilation holes are located between the wipes, providing the suction motor for the robot. The robot moves using tracks.

The operating principle is the same as most robot vacuums in the Hobot LEGEE line. The moving platforms create up to 600 movements per minute, which should improve dirt removal efficiency. We'll test this in our tests.

Interestingly, the manufacturer claims an antistatic effect from the vibrating platforms. The moving wipers neutralize the electrical charge on the glass, preventing further dust from being attracted and settling on the surface. This keeps the windows cleaner for longer.

Technical specifications

The main characteristics of the Hobot S6 Pro, as stated by the manufacturer:

• Battery: Li-Ion.
• Power consumption: 100 W.
• UPS battery life: 20 min.
• Minimum window size: 50*50 cm.
• Maximum window size: 500*600 cm.
• Dimensions: 260*260*89 mm.
• Weight 1.65 kg.
• Noise level: 62 dB.
• Travel speed: 2.6 min/1 sq.m.

Overall, the characteristics are quite standard for a robot window cleaner.

Functions

Speaking of features, the Hobot S6 Pro is controlled via a remote control and an app. The remote control features buttons such as manual arrow control, pause, liquid flow on and off, top-edge wash, left and right edge wash, manual spray, and dual pass.

The app replicates these same features, but also offers additional capabilities. For example, for convenience, we've added the ability to select the robot's position (behind or in front of the glass) for more intuitive control. When starting the cleaning mode, you're prompted to select the humidity level and water flow rate accordingly. Additionally, a help section is available in Russian, you can select the language and volume of voice notifications, and even record your own creative commands.

Another advantage of the app is that it instantly alerts your smartphone to various service notifications, such as an emergency, a power outage, or a need to check the wiring. I'd also like to point out that the app itself is very conveniently updated over the air using the OTA system.

In general, the robot's functionality is complete, let's move on.

Testing

And finally, let's move on to the tests. A detailed video review with all the tests has already been prepared and published on the channel:

Navigation and window cleaning quality

First, let's test how the Hobot S6 Pro performs at its primary task—cleaning windows from the outside. We'll also be able to evaluate its navigation.

Important! Before the first start, it is necessary to clean the tracks from technical grease!

The robot's first pass over the windows collects all the dirt. It's recommended not to wet the cloth and turn off the water supply to prevent the robot from smearing dirt across the glass.

For the second pass, you can spray a little water or cleaning agent onto the cloth according to the instructions, and also turn on the automatic liquid spray.

Let's compare the condition of the windows before and after:

Here's the cloth after washing the window. As you can see, it's collected dirt and dust:

The cleaning performance is truly excellent. Thanks to its square shape and vacuum sensors, the robot reaches deeper into corners. I'd like to point out that there's still room for improvement, and the brand has already started producing larger cloths, which will allow it to reach deeper into corners and remove dirt.

There's just one caveat to the Hobot S6 Pro: in strong gusts of wind, the liquid sprayed from the ultrasonic nozzles won't fully reach the glass. This reduces the effectiveness of the automatic spray. Therefore, it's not recommended to use the robot in windy conditions.

Navigation on narrow windows was tested separately. There's a catch here, too. It needs to be installed this way, rotated 90 degrees, so it can clean even narrow windows. That's a plus!

Application on other surfaces

This robot can also be used to clean tiled walls, shower stalls, and mirrors. It's even worth noting that the Hobot S6 Pro can gently roll away from the edges of frameless surfaces without losing traction. That's a plus!

However, for those interested, this window cleaning robot is unable to function properly on horizontal surfaces. The cleaning process fails due to a problem with the robot's navigation system. The gyroscope is unable to function when the body is horizontal.

Emergency mode

I'll also explain how the Hobot S6 Pro operates in emergency mode. When the power goes out, the robot emits voice alerts and the indicator on the control panel starts flashing red on both sides of the robot, while PUSH notifications are sent to the connected smartphone. You'll have about 20 minutes to react promptly and remove the robot from the window.

Let's sum it up

The Hobot S6 Pro window cleaning robot was thoroughly reviewed and tested. I'll summarize and share my personal opinion of the robot after using it. Here's what I liked:

1. Vibrating platforms are able to scrub away dirt better than a regular stationary cloth, as found on other square robots.
2. Automatic double spray of cleaning liquid.
3. It cleans dirt deeper into corners than other robots thanks to the placement of anti-fall sensors.
4. Good navigation.
5. Suitable for narrow windows.
6. Control via app and remote control.
7. Double pass function on the work surface.
8. The small height of the body allows the robot to be used on windows with bars.
9. The robot's versatility. It's suitable for cleaning not only windows, but also glass doors, mirrors, and wall tiles.
10. Possibility to record creative voice commands.
11. Warranty and service availability. It's worth noting that Hobot window cleaning robots come with a full 3-year warranty!

As for the shortcomings, I would like to highlight the following comments about the robot:

1. In windy weather, the cleaning fluid delivery system is less effective, as some of the steam is blown away by gusts of wind. In this case, simply moisten the cloth again before washing, especially since the manufacturer recommends moistening it before the main cleaning.
2. A small area in the corners still remains unwashed.
3. The window cleaning robot is not capable of operating on horizontal surfaces.

Overall, the robot is even more convenient, efficient, and functional than the previously released Hobot-2S Ultrasonic. The unique combination of the vibration module and water spray, the app's functionality, and the comprehensive customer support are also noteworthy. This new breakthrough in the stagnant robotic window cleaning market can be considered a success, and the Hobot S6 Pro is one of the best in its segment.

On that note, I'd like to end this review. If you have any questions, please ask them in the comments. Happy shopping, everyone. Bye!