4 Things to Know About LiDAR vs. Camera Robot Vacuums in the Dark

LiDAR vacuums work perfectly in total darkness LiDAR uses lasers to map a room regardless of lighting. It knows exactly where it is even in a pitch-black room.

Camera vacuums struggle without light Camera-based models rely on visible light or an onboard LED. In a dark room, they bump into furniture and navigate poorly.

Infrared illuminators help but don’t fix camera models Some camera vacuums have infrared lights, but they still fail in total darkness or low-contrast spaces like a dark rug on a dark floor.

LiDAR is pricier and taller but worth it for dark homes LiDAR vacuums cost more and have a taller tower that won’t fit under low furniture. If you vacuum at night or have a dark apartment, that trade-off is worth it.