Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim: The Slimmest and Fastest Window Cleaning Robot

Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim is an improved version of the previously released Atvel Zorro Z5, which was also reviewed. The only difference between these two robots is the recessed, folding handle, which allows the height of the robot to be reduced to a record-breaking 63 mm. This design solution expands the robot's range of applications and allows it to be used on windows with bars installed very close to the window. Or in cases where there are objects close to the window that the robot could bump into, such as branches. Below, I'll thoroughly test the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim, after which I'll express my opinion on whether this window cleaning robot is worth buying. The price at the time of writing is between $22 and $250. So, let's get started!

Equipment

Let's start with the package contents. In addition to the robot itself, the package includes:

1. Power adapter.
2. Extension.
3. Cord for connecting the adapter to the network.
4. Spare napkin.
5. Safety rope.
6. Remote control.
7. And the operating instructions.

This model has standard equipment.

Appearance

Now let's take a look at the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim's design. It's square, gray, and the plastic is matte and stain-resistant.

As mentioned earlier, the case is only 63 mm tall. However, it's worth noting not only the ultra-thin case but also the overall compact dimensions, namely 195 x 195 mm. This allows the device to be used on narrow windows, as will be demonstrated in our tests.

The handle easily slides out of its recess and back in. It houses a mechanical Start/Pause button. The power cord and part of the safety tether are non-removable. A speaker is located underneath them, through which the robot emits sound signals.

Mechanical sensors detect the edges of the work area at the bottom corners. There's a power button, next to which is a robot status indicator light. The Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim moves on rubberized tracks, which are equipped with treads that provide reliable traction. In the center, you can see the ventilation holes for the main motor, which provides suction to the surface. The cloth is attached with Velcro. It's thick enough to hold its shape, making it easy to attach to the robot.

Overall, I have no complaints about the design or build quality of the Zorro Z5 Slim. Let's move on!

Technical specifications

The main characteristics of the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim, as declared by the manufacturer:

• Backup battery: Li-Ion, 750 mAh.
• Suction power 2200 Pa.
• Power consumption: 60 W.
• Emergency operation time from UPS: up to 40 min.
• Minimum window width: 27 cm.
• Maximum window size ≈400*400 cm.
• Minimum glass thickness: 5 mm.
• Dimensions: 195*195*63 mm.
• Weight 1 kg.
• Travel speed: 2 min/1 sq.m.

The robot's extremely light weight and long surface retention time in emergency mode are worth noting. It's also worth noting that it's quite agile, which is a plus!

Functional capabilities

Let's review the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim's features. The window cleaning robot is controlled both via the remote control and the proprietary mobile app. The remote control includes functions such as manual arrow control, Start/Pause, track cleaning, return to the starting point, intensive cleaning mode, and N-pattern and Z-pattern movement modes.

The same features are duplicated in the mobile app, which is very easy and quick to install on your smartphone. The robot connects to the app via Wi-Fi.

Testing

And finally, let's move on to the tests, the results of which will allow us to objectively evaluate how well the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim copes with its main task and what it is capable of in principle.

A detailed video review has already been prepared and published on the channel:

Navigation

First, we test the robot's navigation on windows of different sizes. In my case, the narrowest window is 38 cm wide. One section of the balcony door is also the same width. The robot moves and turns without any problems, leaving no uncleaned areas. According to the manufacturer, it can clean even windows as wide as 27 cm, which is impressive!

When cleaning large windows measuring 150 x 90 cm, there were no navigation issues either. The robot even navigated entire walls measuring 250 x 200 cm, completely covering the area. There were no complaints regarding navigation.

Quality of dirt removal

Now for a more interesting test—let's see how well the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim actually cleans windows of dirt and dust. Here you can see the BEFORE and AFTER state of various windows:

As you can see, the robot collected most of the dirt and dust on the cloth. It's worth noting that it thoroughly cleans the area along the glazing bead, but like other window cleaning robots, it can't clean corners due to the anti-fall sensors installed along the edges. Nevertheless, the quality of dirt removal is on par with most similar robots.

By the way, here is the condition of the napkin after the tests:

Noise level

The actual noise level is standard and ranges from 78-79 dB. However, this is only true if you install the robot indoors. When cleaning windows from the outside, the noise level is obviously much lower.

Application on other surfaces

I'll also show you how else you can use the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim. Interestingly, it's suitable for cleaning horizontal surfaces, which is a plus.

It can also be used to clean tiled walls, glass shower partitions, or even mirrors.

It is also important to note that this robot is capable of washing even frameless windows and other surfaces, which can be considered one of the device’s advantages.

There's just one important point mentioned in the instructions: if you have windows with crooked glazing beads or other similarly tricky elements on the work surface, there's a high risk of the robot falling over or, at best, going into emergency mode due to a sudden loss of grip. For example, in my case, it was the plugs on the mirror.

Be careful. This isn't a specific issue with the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim, but with virtually all robotic window cleaners.

Now, let me describe how the washer operates in emergency mode. When the power goes out, the indicator light flashes red on both the front and back, and the robot emits audible signals. This allows you to promptly detect the problem and remove the robot from the window, which gives you about 40 minutes.

Personal opinion

The Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim was thoroughly reviewed and tested. I'll share my personal opinion of the robot. I liked the following:

1. Very thin body.
2. The quality of window cleaning is above average.
3. Possibility of working on narrow windows due to its compact size.
4. Work on horizontal surfaces.
5. Control via app and remote control.
6. The robot is capable of washing frameless windows.
7. High movement speed.
8. Good navigation.
9. Availability of warranty and service support.

Regarding its drawbacks, the main one is, of course, the fact that the robot doesn't clean corners, which, again, is currently an unsolvable problem for all similar devices. Just like its predecessor, the Zorro Z5, the new model lacks advanced features for better cleaning of tough stains. For example, this could include an automatic supply of cleaning fluid to the cloth or a moving cleaning module that mimics the motion of a human hand when scrubbing. Overall, the Atvel Zorro Z5 Slim gets the job done and is suitable for seasonal window cleaning to remove dust and dirt. Therefore, I see no reason not to recommend it, especially if a slim design is important to you. In this regard, the Slim version is unrivaled at the time of writing.

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