The freedom of going cord‑free
The boom in cordless cleaning appliances is a global phenomenon. These vacuums have been widely adopted because they offer a less restrictive cleaning experience that is lighter and easily portable. According to onedesk analysis, the cleaning robot sector was worth 2.5 billion dollars in 2020 and is expected to grow by 14.5% by 2025. This growth is driven by manufacturers’ relentless search for ever more autonomous cleaning solutions.
The vacuum cleaner market is structured around several main types:
- Traditional corded models: The oldest and most widespread type until cordless machines appeared.
- Stick (upright) vacuums: Available with or without a battery.
- Robot vacuums: Sophisticated automated cleaning assistants.
- Handheld vacuums: Compact, practical units, usually cordless, for smaller jobs.
- Other formats: Specialised machines for specific tasks.
Here we focus on the most dynamic cordless segments: stick models and robots.
The dominance of robot vacuums and how they’re segmented
The cleaning robot market is divided by application:
- Floor cleaning: The strongest-performing category.
- Pool cleaning: For maintaining pools and other aquatic areas.
- Glass surface cleaning: For windows and large glazed areas.
- Robotic lawn mowers: For lawn maintenance.
It is clear that robot vacuum/mop floor cleaners are the market leaders, accounting for nearly 65% of all robot sales.
The most influential and recognised brands in this segment are:
- iRobot Corporation
- LG Electronics
- Samsung Electronics Co
The appeal of upright stick vacuums
Right now, upright stick vacuums are the category attracting the largest number of buyers. A study by onedesk forecasts a 10% increase in their market share by 2026.
Many models are sold as “2‑in‑1” machines, converting from a full‑sized floor unit into a handheld vacuum. This flexibility makes it easier to reach corners and awkward spots.
The key brands in this segment are:
- Dyson
- Hoover
- Philips
The battle for market share and fading doubts
Globally, market shares are split, with Dyson (20%) and iRobot (18%) as the main rivals.
However, when you look specifically at robot vacuums, iRobot clearly dominates, holding 46% of the market in 2020 (Statista). This makes sense given Dyson’s decision to prioritise upright stick models in its product line‑up.
When cordless models were first introduced, they triggered consumer concerns about battery reliability and lifespan. But manufacturers’ efforts to improve runtime and shorten charging times have reassured users, allowing sales to grow steadily.
Over time, users need to plan for routine maintenance. While replacing brushes and filters is common, replacing the battery is needed less frequently, but becomes essential after heavy, prolonged use.
iRobot: the inventor of the robot vacuum cleaner
Inspired by space robotics, iRobot was the first company to bring a robot vacuum cleaner to market.
Roomba, launched in 2002, created the category. After holding 63% of the market in 2014, the company maintained a strong presence with 46% in 2020.
Its best‑known ranges include:
- Roomba (for vacuuming floors)
- Brava and Scooba (for wet cleaning)
These machines are easy to maintain. Current models typically offer around two hours of runtime. For anyone with an older version, you can buy a high‑capacity iRobot battery to benefit from longer autonomy.
Dyson: the global cordless leader
Founded by Sir James Dyson in 1991, this British company is famous for its innovations in home appliances.
Dyson is the global leader in the overall vacuum cleaner market (20%). Its impact on the robot segment is modest (1% according to Statista), because it focuses on upright stick vacuums (the V series).
Caring for upright stick models is straightforward. To compensate for battery life that can sometimes feel limited, choosing a high‑capacity Dyson battery is an excellent way to extend your cleaning time.
Samsung: the all‑round brand
Samsung, the South Korean group founded in 1938, offers a wide range of tech products.
The company sells both stick and robot vacuums. Recently it has put more emphasis on the cordless stick vacuum segment. This shift helps explain the drop in its robot vacuum market share, from 6% in 2014 to 1% in 2020 (Statista).
Its main series are:
- Jet Bot (robots)
- Jet Stick (upright sticks)
Xiaomi: Asian energy and growth
Xiaomi, the Chinese electronics company founded in 2010, is a major player in several technology sectors.
Despite having a 4% global market share in robot vacuums, it is highly popular in its home markets. Xiaomi focuses largely on robots, with the Mi‑Robot Vacuum Mop as its flagship reference.
