LiDAR or camera robot vacuum?

Navigation type decides whether the robot cleans your home in an orderly way or wanders randomly. Here are the main differences.

Criterion	LiDAR (laser)	Camera
Mapping	Accurate and fast	Good in recent models
Working in the dark	Excellent	Affected by low light
Avoiding small obstacles (cables, socks)	Relies on extra sensors	Advanced models recognize them
Height	The laser turret makes it a bit taller	Usually slimmer, fits under lower furniture
Privacy	Takes no images	A camera inside your home — review privacy settings

Bottom line: for most multi-room homes, LiDAR is the more reliable choice. Choose a camera if your furniture is very low, or if kids' toys and cables often cover the floor, with a model that recognizes obstacles.

More: robot vacuum buying guide.