Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970: A window cleaning robot that can scrub away dirt

Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970

The Spanish company Cecotec has been in business for over 20 years, producing a variety of household appliances, including robotic vacuum cleaners, window cleaners, and upright vacuum cleaners. The latest product I've reviewed is the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 window cleaning robot. This model's main highlight is its movable cleaning unit, which makes it much more effective at removing dirt. The manufacturer also boasts excellent navigation and several operating modes for various applications. Below, I'll take a detailed look at and test the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970, after which I'll share my opinion on whether this window cleaning robot is worth buying. It costs $255, which puts it in the premium segment. So, let's get started!

Equipment

The window cleaning robot arrived in this branded cardboard box:

Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 and boxCecotec Conga WinDroid 970 and box

Window cleaning robot and box

The package includes:

  1. Two sets of microfiber cloths.
  2. Power unit.
  3. Extension cord and cable for connecting the robot to the outlet.
  4. Insurance.
  5. Robot documentation is available in several languages, including Russian.
  6. A bottle of cleaning agent.
  7. Remote control.
Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 EquipmentCecotec Conga WinDroid 970 Equipment

Equipment

The delivery set is complete and includes all the necessary accessories for operating the robot.

Appearance

Now let's look at the design of the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970. It's D-shaped and black. The body is taller than some similar models due to the handle extending beyond the body.

Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970, side viewCecotec Conga WinDroid 970, side view

Design

The overall height is approximately 11.5 cm. This may be a problem for those with barred windows, as the gap between the window and the bar is typically 10 to 15 cm, and the robot may simply not fit. Please keep this in mind.

Height of window cleaning robotHeight of window cleaning robot

Height

Let's move on. The handle has a single control button: start/pause. The power cord is non-detachable. The extension cord is threaded.

Let's take a look at the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970's underside. It's equipped with five fall protection sensors. The robot moves on tracks, which, surprisingly, have no treads. The upper part of the platform is movable, allowing it to scrub dirt from windows and other surfaces. Between the movable and fixed parts, you'll find a squeegee for collecting liquid residue from the window.

Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970, bottom viewCecotec Conga WinDroid 970, bottom view

Bottom view

The power on/off button is located next to the main motor vents. Next to it is an indicator light that displays the washer's operating status. For example, in emergency mode, the indicator light, like the button on the handle, flashes red.

The wipes are attached to the body with Velcro. It's important to position the wipes correctly so they don't cover the sensors and extend slightly beyond the mounting surface on all sides.

Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 with installed SaflekCecotec Conga WinDroid 970 with installed Saflek

Napkins are installed

Overall, there are no complaints about the build quality of the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970. The plastic is high-quality, and there were no loose parts or paint leaks, as is common with cheaper Chinese counterparts.

Technical specifications

The main characteristics of the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970, as stated by the manufacturer:

Power consumption 90 W
Battery Li-Ion, 650 mAh
UPS battery life 15 min
Minimum window size 50*70 cm
Maximum window size ≈500*600 cm
Minimum window thickness 5 mm
Dimensions 250*270*115 mm
Weight 2.05 kg
Movement speed 2-3 min/1 sq.m.

Functional capabilities

Let's move on to a review of the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970's features. The window cleaning robot is controlled using the included remote control. This model doesn't support smartphone control, but the older 980 model can be controlled via both a smartphone and a remote control, though otherwise the robots are identical.

Remote controlRemote control

Remote control

The top five buttons on the remote control are unused. Below them are buttons for manual control of the robot and the start/pause button. Below the joystick, on the left, is the button for the wheel cleaning function. To the right of this button is the deep cleaning and spot cleaning modes. Below that are the buttons for the N-pattern and Z-pattern movements of the window cleaner.

In general, these functions will be sufficient for various window sizes and application conditions.

Testing

And most importantly, we'll test how well the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 performs at its primary task – window cleaning. We'll be conducting several tests. A detailed video review with all the tests has already been prepared and published on the channel; I recommend watching it:

Navigation

Let's start with navigation. On a large window, the robot navigates efficiently, leaving no missed areas. It's also capable of cleaning narrow windows, like mine—a window only 35 cm wide, although the manufacturer specifies a window width of 50 cm.

Navigation in large and small windowsNavigation in large and small windows

Navigation in large and small windows

There's one caveat, though: the safety cable is approximately 130 cm long. Therefore, if the windows are large, it's important to carefully position the suction cup so the safety cable doesn't limit the robot's range. This also raises questions about how to use the robot on large stained-glass windows, such as 200 x 300 cm.

But this model has good navigation.

Window cleaning quality

Regarding the quality of dirt removal and overall window cleaning, it's safe to say that the cleaning module is effective and truly removes light dirt. It doesn't leave streaks, and the wipes effectively pick up dust and remove stains.

Robot window cleaning qualityRobot window cleaning quality

Robot window cleaning quality

Robot window cleaning quality (another angle)Robot window cleaning quality (another angle)

Robot window cleaning quality (close-up)

Look at the condition of the napkin after starting the robot from the outside of the window:

The robot's condition after washing the windowThe robot's condition after washing the window

The robot's condition after washing the window

The only caveat here is typical of all the window cleaning robots I've tested: due to its design and the sensors located in the corners, the robot doesn't completely clean the windows in the corners. This is important to keep in mind.

Washing a window in the cornerWashing a window in the corner

Washing a window in the corner

In general, the recommendation is to always wet the cloth with cleaning fluid before starting. If any of the cleaning fluid gets on the tracks or sensors while spraying, carefully wipe them off with a dry cloth.

Application on other surfaces

The Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 can also be used to clean other vertical surfaces, such as mirrored wardrobe doors or bathroom tiles. Importantly, the robot gently backs up when it detects a break, making it suitable for use on frameless windows.

Washing tiled wallsWashing tiled walls

Washing tiled walls

Mirror washMirror wash

Mirror wash

The only thing is that the manufacturer states that this robot is suitable for washing horizontal surfaces, however, in my case, when I started it on the table, it began to behave strangely, so I cannot confirm this function.

Operation in emergency mode

Finally, I'll demonstrate how the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 operates in emergency mode when the power is off. When the robot is unplugged, it starts making a sound, and the indicators on both the front and back start flashing red. This will allow you to quickly detect the problem and remove the robot from the window.

Window cleaning robot in emergency modeWindow cleaning robot in emergency mode

Operation in emergency mode

And I repeat, it is absolutely necessary to use a safety suction cup, which is easily attached to the window and just as easy to detach.

Personal opinion

The Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 was thoroughly reviewed and tested. I'll share my impressions of this robotic window cleaner. I liked the following:

  1. Good navigation.
  2. Effective cleaning module.
  3. High quality assembly.
  4. Suitable for frameless windows.
  5. Fully equipped, including the manufacturer's proprietary cleaning solution.
  6. Can be used not only on windows, but also on other vertical surfaces.
  7. Suitable for washing narrow windows.
  8. Availability of warranty and service support.

This model also has its drawbacks, most of which are typical for all robotic window cleaners, but there are also individual comments, namely:

  1. Short safety rope.
  2. Does not work on horizontal surfaces.
  3. Doesn't wash a small area in the corners.
  4. It may not fit between the window and the grille due to the protruding handle.

As a result, there are no critical comments about this robot, and the movable cleaning unit distinguishes it from most similar devices. In my opinion, the only thing this model lacks is an automatic water supply system to the cleaning cloth, which would make it more autonomous. Furthermore, we see that the robotic window cleaning market is not developing as rapidly as robotic vacuum cleaners. There's a lack of cutting-edge solutions that will captivate you at first glance and evoke that cherished phrase, "I want to buy one." Therefore, considering the price, the Cecotec Conga WinDroid 970 is clearly on par with similar devices and can be considered one of the best in its segment. However, before purchasing, you should understand that these devices have their own peculiarities, which are worth accepting for now. In any case, this device will simplify the cleaning of large windows, or will solve the problem of safe window cleaning if you live on high floors, so I definitely recommend it for such purposes.

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!

One comment

  • Ace

    There's no way that robotic window cleaners WON'T leave streaks (mostly whitish). It doesn't depend on the machine at all, but on... who knows what. I've tried about a hundred million different methods, and not a single one has managed to leave streaks. Even if you THINK there aren't any streaks, just look at the window from a different angle... 🙂

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