Hobot R3: A robotic window cleaner with a dual ultrasonic liquid spray system

The Hobot R3 window cleaning robot is a new product for 2023, launching in early April. Its key feature is ultrasonic spraying of cleaning fluid from two nozzles facing opposite directions as the robot moves. This means that no matter which direction the robot moves across the window, the cleaning fluid is sprayed in front of the cleaning cloth, improving cleaning quality and constantly moistening the cloth. Furthermore, the Hobot R3 boasts advanced features that enhance not only its performance but also its safety. However, the launch price will be under $300, or up to $400 at the exchange rate at the time of writing, placing the robot in the premium segment. Below, I'll show you how the Hobot R3 window cleaning robot works, demonstrate its capabilities, and test how well it performs at its primary task. Let's get started!

Equipment

Hobot R3 arrived in this branded box:

The package includes:

1. Power unit.
2. Extension.
3. Cord for connecting the power supply to the network.
4. Safety rope 4.5 meters long.
5. Remote control with batteries.
6. Branded cleaning liquid.
7. 6 spare sets of reusable wipes.
8. Two spare sprayers.
9. Two spare napkin holders.
10. Documentation for the robot with translation into Russian.

The package is very good. It includes all the necessary accessories and even a cleaning solution, which is a plus!

Appearance

Let's take a look at the Hobot R3 window cleaning robot. It has an oval body and is white. The body features recesses for easy grip when installing and removing the robot from a work surface.

The cleaning module consists of two round rotating platforms with cleaning cloths. The robot's height is 9.5 cm, allowing it to be used even on windows with bars, which are typically installed 10 to 15 cm away from the window.

On the top of the body is a mechanical start/stop button for the robot. On the other side is a power switch, a power port, and a cleaning fluid reservoir with two spray nozzles. The nozzles spray the cleaning fluid in the form of tiny particles, up to 15 micrometers in size. It's literally a mist.

Unlike the drip-feed system found in other robots, ultrasonic spraying helps use cleaning fluid more efficiently and minimizes streaks on the glass. However, there's a downside: fine particles can be blown away in windy conditions, so this robotic window cleaner, like the previous Hobot 2S models, 388 And 298, it is effective to use in windless weather, if we are talking about outdoor use.

The robot has holes on both sides for attaching a safety rope. The manufacturer's instructions explain how to tie a secure knot. I recommend studying them and ALWAYS install the safety rope when using the window cleaning robot from the outside, especially on high floors.

Light indicators are located between the cleaning pads, indicating the robot's status. The holders are easily attached to the body using mechanical fasteners.

Technical specifications

The main characteristics of Hobot R3, as stated by the manufacturer:

• Power: 90 W.
• UPS battery life: 20 min.
• Cleaning agent tank capacity: 30 ml.
• Minimum window size: limited by robot size.
• Maximum window size: limited by power wires.
• Glass cleaning speed: 4 min/m2.
• Dimensions: 295*148 mm*95 mm.
• Weight 955 g.
• Noise level: up to 74 dB.
• There are no restrictions on the thickness of the glass.

I personally tested the noise level. If you run the robot indoors, the noise level is between 73-74 dB. If you run it outside, it all depends on the soundproofing of your windows. For example, in my case, the noise level doesn't exceed 57 dB.

Functional capabilities

Now let's take a look at the capabilities of the Hobot R3 robotic window cleaner. It's controlled not only by the remote control but also via a proprietary mobile app. The remote control includes functions such as manual control, pause, water on/off, selection of three motion modes, forced spray, and double-pass cleaning.

The mobile app duplicates these same features, but it also offers a few more, some very interesting ones. Firstly, it has a help section with instructions and answers to frequently asked questions. Secondly, you can select a language and adjust the volume of voice alerts. Yes, the Hobot R3 speaks Russian, providing status updates and any errors that arise. Furthermore, you can even record custom voice commands for each robot status and customize it to suit your needs. Thirdly, the app lets you update the robot's firmware, ensuring stable operation and up-to-date software. These new features are what set it apart from its siblings, the 368 and 388 models. A fourth useful feature is the ability to send service messages and notifications to a connected smartphone. So, for example, if the power goes out and you're in another room and can't hear the sound, a notification on your smartphone will alert you to the problem and promptly remove the robot from the window.

Additionally, the app will send you reminders every three months to recharge the battery. This is designed to prolong its lifespan, as deeply discharged batteries are known to fail. It's also worth noting that the robot connects to the app via Bluetooth, not Wi-Fi. This is a plus, as it allows for quick connection and reliable control in any room with a weak signal or no Wi-Fi access point at all.

Testing

A detailed video review of the Hobot R3, including all tests, has already been prepared and published on the channel. I recommend watching the video:

Navigation and window cleaning quality

Finally, let's move on to the tests. First, we'll check how the Hobot R3 performs at its primary task – cleaning windows from the outside. We'll also be able to evaluate its navigation. Considering the windows haven't been washed since fall and are quite dirty, it's recommended to first run the robot for dry cleaning, without spraying any cleaning solution. I did just that. And you can see how effective this device is. Let's compare the condition of the windows before and after:

And here's what the napkins look like after the test:

Even dry cleaning will be sufficient in most cases. But if you want even better results, run the robot a second time with clean wipes, activating the cleaning agent spray.

The only weak point of all window cleaning robots, including this one, is that corners remain unwashed, due to the design features of the cleaning module:

But if it is very critical for you to have cleaner corners, I advise you to pay attention to the model Hobot 2S It's square. As far as I know, it's the only window cleaner of its kind with cloths that reach deep into corners, as there are no sensors directly in the corners. However, it doesn't offer perfect corner cleaning, but it's simply the most thorough of all the robots I've tested. This is worth considering when choosing. And remember, it's best to use it in calm weather so that the cleaning fluid only reaches the area in front of the cloths.

The model's navigation, even judging by this test, is good – it left no unwashed areas on an oversized window measuring 150 x 90 cm. It also navigated a narrow window measuring just 38 cm wide without any problems.

Application on other surfaces

This robot can also be used to clean tiled walls, shower stalls, and mirrors. It's even important to note that the Hobot R3 can gently roll away from the edges of frameless surfaces without losing traction. This is a plus! However, the manufacturer does not recommend using the robot on frameless surfaces, as it lacks special corner sensors like square robots, increasing the risk of the robot falling over. Keep this in mind!

Well, this robot window cleaner is also capable of functioning on horizontal surfaces, for those interested.

Emergency mode

Let me explain how the Hobot R3 operates in emergency mode. When disconnected from the power supply, the robot starts beeping, emitting voice alerts, and flashing red indicators on both sides of the body. Additionally, you'll receive a notification on your smartphone prompting you to remove the robot from the surface. All of this combined allows you to promptly detect the problem and remove the robot from the window.

Personal opinion

The Hobot R3 window cleaning robot has been thoroughly reviewed and tested. I'll share my personal opinion on this device. I liked the following:

1. A cleaning liquid spray function that increases window cleaning efficiency and allows the robot to clean larger windows while keeping the wipes damp.
2. Control via app and remote control.
3. Russified voice messages, as well as the ability to record your own creative messages.
4. The double-pass function is not available in all robots.
5. Good navigation.
6. The robot is capable of cleaning light dirt and effectively collects dust from windows.
7. Suitable for washing horizontal surfaces.
8. It can be used on various hard surfaces, which expands its scope of application.
9. A 3-year warranty and after-sales support from the manufacturer are available.
10. Good equipment.
11. High build quality.

As for the shortcomings, the following were found:

1. In windy weather, the cleaning fluid supply system is not as effective, as some of the steam is blown away by the gust of wind.
2. It does not wash windows in corners due to design features.

Overall, the robot left mostly positive reviews, and no critical comments were found. Work is underway to improve the performance and safety of these devices. If you're looking for an effective and modern window cleaning robot, and reliability is a priority, I recommend considering this unit.

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