Atvel Zorro Z5: A Compact and Fast Window Cleaning Robot

In this review, I'll be looking at another window cleaning robot that I received for review. The model is called the Atvel Zorro Z5. I've previously tested Atvel products, including a robot vacuum cleaner. Atvel R80 and a vertical vacuum cleaner Atvel G9Overall, these two products have received overwhelmingly positive reviews. Now let's see how good their robotic window cleaner is, priced at $200, which is average for this type of equipment. Next, I'll show you how the Atvel Zorro Z5 works, what features it supports, and most importantly, how it performs its primary function: window cleaning. So, let's get started!

Equipment

In addition to the robot itself, the box contains:

1. Two microfiber cloths.
2. Power unit.
3. Cord for connecting the power supply to the network.
4. Extension.
5. Safety rope.
6. Remote control.
7. A bottle of cleaning liquid.
8. Manufacturer's documentation translated into Russian.

This is the complete package. The standard package includes all necessary accessories and consumables for operating the robot.

Appearance

Now let's take a look at the Atvel Zorro Z5's design. It's square, finished in a dark gray and red color combination, and features glossy plastic.

The compact dimensions of the body, just 195 x 195 mm and 85 mm in height, are immediately worth noting. This is the most compact robotic window cleaner I've reviewed. Incidentally, the compact body allows the robot to be used on windows with bars, which is a plus.

The robot's power cord is non-removable. A mechanical Start/Pause button is located on the handle.

Let's take a look at the robot's underside. The red power button immediately catches your eye. The Atvel Zorro Z5 moves on rubberized tracks. The cloth is attached to the body with Velcro. Mechanical sensors protecting the robot from falls are located in the corners. The main motor's vents, which suction the robot to the glass, are located in the center.

As you can see, the cloth is beveled at the edges, so, like other models, the Atvel Zorro Z5 will not be able to completely clean the area in the corners.

Technical specifications

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

• Backup battery: Li-Ion, 720 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.
• Dimensions: 195*195*85 mm.
• Weight 1 kg.
• Noise level: <70 dB.
• Travel speed: 2 min/1 sq.m.

Among its features, its high speed is particularly noteworthy, while the average is around 2.4 min/1 sq. m. I'd also like to point out its ability to clean narrow windows. A minimum window width of 27 cm is, in my experience, the best indicator. Furthermore, the robot has an extended runtime in emergency mode. Typically, window cleaning robots can remain on the glass for 20 to 30 minutes without power. This is most likely due to the robot's light weight. It's 300 grams lighter than most similar robots.

Functional capabilities

Let's move on to an overview of the Atvel Zorro Z5's features. The device can be controlled both via the remote control and the proprietary mobile app. First, let's look at the software functionality. Connecting the robot to the network is straightforward; follow the manufacturer's instructions.

The following functions are located on the main working panel:

1. Manual control of the robot.
2. Start/Pause.
3. N-shaped washing mode.
4. Z-shaped washing mode.
5. Automatic car wash from the left edge.
6. And an automatic car wash from the right edge.

Below is a section with information on how to properly clean the robot, as well as a section that displays the firmware version.

The remote control duplicates all the same functions, allowing you to choose the best way to control the robot, which is a plus.

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

Testing

A detailed video review has already been prepared and published on the channel. I recommend watching the video:

Navigating large and small windows

Let's move on to the tests. First, let's check how well the Atvel Zorro Z5 navigates. It cleaned the large window without any problems, leaving no unexplored areas.

It can also fit through a narrow window, just 35 cm wide, but the manufacturer actually states a minimum window width of just 27 cm. Test passed successfully!

Window cleaning quality

Now let's test how well the Atvel Zorro Z5 cleans the exterior window. Before starting, I sprayed a little cleaning solution on a cloth, as recommended by the manufacturer. We attached the safety cable, connected the power supply, and positioned the robot on the window.

So, the window cleaning performance is above average. The Atvel Zorro Z5 can't remove some very dried-on dirt, but it does handle dust and light dirt. The only problem, as mentioned earlier, is that the cleaning cloth doesn't quite reach the corners, which is a problem area for almost all robotic window cleaners.

It's also worth noting that it's extremely rare for the robot to fail to reach window frames for any reason. As far as I know, this is a common characteristic of models with tracks. They are sensitive to how smoothly the cleaning cloth is positioned, the cleanliness of the tracks themselves, the roughness of the glass, and the presence of water or detergent residue. Therefore, the same robot may slip in different conditions, but work perfectly in others. During my testing, I observed this situation several times. But in my tests, you can see that the robot behaves correctly.

Here's the cloth after washing the window. As you can see, it's collected dirt and dust. Overall, I'm pleased with the cleaning performance.

Operation in emergency mode

I'll also explain how the Atvel Zorro Z5 behaves in emergency mode when the power is off. The device emits beeps and the indicator on both sides starts flashing red. This gives you enough time to react promptly and remove the robot from the window. Remember to secure the safety tether to a stationary object to prevent the robot from falling from a height.

Washing tiles

It's also worth noting that the device is suitable for cleaning not only glass but also other hard vertical surfaces with a soft texture. For example, it can be used to clean tiled walls in a bathroom.

Incidentally, I'd like to emphasize that the Atvel Zorro Z5 is suitable for cleaning frameless windows. As you can see, when it detects a so-called break in the window opening, it retracts, preventing it from falling from a height.

In addition, the robot is capable of operating on horizontal surfaces, should anyone find this feature useful and find a use for it.

Let's sum it up

The Atvel Zorro Z5 was thoroughly reviewed and tested. Like the other products from this brand I've reviewed, this robotic window cleaner left a largely positive impression. I liked the following:

1. Control via remote control and mobile application.
2. Compact body dimensions.
3. Ability to work on narrow windows.
4. High movement speed.
5. The quality of window cleaning is above average.
6. Good navigation.
7. Ability to work on frameless windows.
8. Ability to work on horizontal surfaces.
9. Availability of warranty and service support.

As for shortcomings, I didn't find any specific ones for this model. The general criticism is the same as with most other robotic window cleaners in this price range: the device doesn't clean corners due to its remote sensors, and it lacks advanced features for better cleaning of stubborn stains. For example, this could include an automatic supply of cleaning fluid before the cloth or a moving cleaning module that mimics the motion of a human hand when scrubbing. Overall, the Atvel Zorro Z5 gets the job done and is suitable for seasonal window cleaning of dust and dirt. Therefore, I see no reason not to recommend it.

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!