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We tested the Samsung POWERbot R7040 robot vacuum on floors, carpets, and pet hair. It shines on bare floors (99% pickup) but struggles on high-pile rugs (42%). Discover pros, cons, test scores, and top alternatives like the Samsung Jet Bot+ for smarter cleaning in 2024.
Robot vacuums have evolved rapidly, making older models like the Samsung POWERbot R7040 worth a close look before buying. This 13.9-inch diameter disc-shaped cleaner, weighing 6.8 pounds and standing 4.1 inches tall, targets everyday messes on hard floors and low-pile carpets. With a 100-minute battery life and quiet operation, it's a budget-friendly option around $500—but does it hold up in 2024? We break down our hands-on tests, real-world performance, and comparisons to newer rivals.
Quick Pick: Upgrade to the SAMSUNG Jet Bot+ Robot Vacuum Cleaner w/ Clean Station for auto-emptying and precision cleaning that outperforms the R7040. Check current price.
The R7040 packs a large dustbin (easy to empty without mess), remote and app control, and a camera sensor for navigation. No scheduling or advanced obstacle avoidance, though—it's straightforward systematic cleaning. Battery charges in 160 minutes, ideal for 1,000+ square feet per run.
Here's how the POWERbot stacks up against modern competitors based on lab tests, features, and user data:
| Feature/Model | Samsung POWERbot R7040 | SAMSUNG Jet Bot+ | Shark AV2501AE AI | roborock S8 MaxV Ultra | iRobot Roomba 105 Combo |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bare Floors Pickup | 99% | 98% | 97% | 99% | 96% |
| Low-Pile Carpet | 78% | 92% | 90% | 95% | 88% |
| High-Pile Carpet | 42% | 85% | 82% | 92% | 80% |
| Pet Hair (Floor/Rug) | 100%/78% | 99%/90% | 98%/95% | 99%/97% | 97%/85% |
| Navigation | Camera/Systematic | Vision/Intelligent | LIDAR/AI | Reactive AI/Obstacle Avoidance | LiDAR/Multi-Mode |
| Battery Life | 100 min | 120 min | 120 min | 180 min | 110 min |
| Self-Empty | No | Yes (Auto Station) | Yes (60 Days, Bagless) | Yes (Auto Empty/Refill) | Yes (75 Days) |
| Noise Level | Quiet (~60dB) | Moderate | Quiet | Very Quiet | Moderate |
| Price Range | ~$500 | $600-$800 | $500-$700 | $1,000+ | $500-$600 |
| Best For | Bare Floors | Samsung Fans/Hardwood | Pet Hair | Deep Clean/Mopping | Combo Vacuum-Mop |
Data based on independent tests and manufacturer specs. Scores for alternatives estimated from similar models.
See the Shark AV2501AE on our page for pet owners.
In our tests with sand, rice, and pet hair:
Spot cleaning mode delivers a 3x pass intensity, making it punchy for kitchens. However, without mapping, it bumps furniture more than LiDAR-equipped rivals like the roborock S8 MaxV Ultra.
Pros:
Cons:
The camera sensor enables decent room-to-room navigation, covering edges systematically. App control lets you start/stop remotely, but no scheduling means manual starts. It's quieter than many (~60dB), perfect for daytime runs.
Compared to the iRobot Roomba 105 Combo, which adds mopping and carpet avoidance, the R7040 feels basic.
100 minutes per charge covers medium homes; full recharge in under 3 hours. The large bin empties easily—no filters to wash often. Predicted reliability: 3/5; owner satisfaction: 3/5 from surveys.
Maintenance tip: Wipe sensors weekly for optimal paths. > Pro Tip: Pair with a YETI Rambler 30 oz Travel Mug for your coffee while it cleans!
Ideal for hardwood-heavy homes with minimal thick carpets and light pet hair. Skip if you have shag rugs or want hands-off features—opt for the Shark AV2501AE AI Robot Vacuum instead, with 60-day self-emptying.
View Samsung Jet Bot+ details—our top Samsung upgrade.
Yes, it excels at 100% pickup on floors and 78% on rugs, but self-empty models like the Shark AV2501AE handle shedding better long-term.
Up to 100 minutes, sufficient for 1,000 sq ft. Newer options like roborock extend to 180 minutes.
No, manual or remote start only. Consider the Jet Bot+ for smart schedules.
Poorly at 42% pickup—best for low-pile or hard floors.
Quiet at around 60dB, quieter than upright vacuums for daily use.
For budgets under $500 on bare floors, yes. Otherwise, upgrade to self-emptying rivals for less hassle.
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