Shark AI Ultra

The Shark AI Ultra (AV2511AE) is a solid choice if you're in the market for a robot vacuum. Scoring 85 out of 100, it does a decent job of living up to its hype. With a price tag of £599.99, it's on the higher end, but there are some features that justify the cost.

First off, the self-emptying base is a real plus. It saves you the hassle of emptying the bin after every use, which is ideal if you’ve got pets or a busy household. The bin capacity of 0.6 liters is pretty decent too, allowing for a good amount of dirt before it needs emptying. The advanced LIDAR mapping technology is impressive and helps the vacuum navigate your home efficiently, avoiding obstacles without getting stuck too often, which is more than can be said for some other models.

Battery life is another strong point, lasting around 120 minutes on a single charge. That’s usually enough to cover most homes in one go, so you shouldn’t find yourself having to charge it mid-clean too often.

However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. While the navigation is generally good, it can get a bit confused in more cluttered spaces. If you've got a lot of furniture or tight corners, it might miss a few spots here and there. Also, the noise level is a bit noticeable compared to some quieter models out there, so if you’re sensitive to sound, you might want to consider that.

In terms of value for money, it really depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a reliable robot vacuum that handles itself well and offers advanced features, then the Shark AI Ultra is a solid investment. But if you’re after something a bit cheaper with fewer bells and whistles, there are alternatives that might suit you better. Overall, it’s a decent piece of tech that does its job well, just be aware of its quirks.