Introduction
The Roborock Qrevo Curv S5X and Roborock Qrevo CurvX represent two premium robot aspirators from the world's leading brand in this category. The S5X launched in 2024, whilst the CurvX arrived in 2025 as an evolution of the range. Both models feature advanced multifunctional bases that handle washing and hot air drying of mops, alongside self-emptying capabilities for dust collection.
These aren't entry-level devices. They're designed for users who want comprehensive automated cleaning without constant intervention. The presence of extending side brushes, rotating mops that extend to reach edges, and obstacle detection systems positions both as serious contenders for anyone seeking a top-tier robot aspirator in 2025.
Whilst they share the same Roborock DNA and several core technologies, the differences between them are significant enough to influence which homes and users they suit best. The CurvX brings notable upgrades in navigation, obstacle recognition, and physical capabilities that justify its position as the newer flagship.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Suction power: 18,500 Pa versus 22,000 Pa
- Battery capacity: 5,200 mAh versus 6,400 mAh, affecting runtime (180 versus 220 minutes)
- Navigation: traditional LiDAR turret versus retractable LiDAR system
- Robot height: 98 mm versus 79.8 mm
- Main brush elevation during mopping: absent on S5X, present on CurvX
- Mop lifting range: 10 mm fixed versus 7-17 mm variable
- AI camera system: none on S5X, dual cameras on CurvX
- 3D laser sensor: absent versus present
- Pet recognition and remote camera access: exclusive to CurvX
- LED night vision: only on CurvX
- Obstacle recognition: unspecified number versus 108 identified objects
- Stair climbing: 20 mm versus adaptive system for single and double steps up to 40 mm
- Proprietary voice assistant: absent on S5X, included on CurvX
- Base self-cleaning system: version 2.0 versus 3.0
- Dust bin capacity in robot: 325 ml versus 258 ml
- Water tank in robot: 80 ml versus 69 ml
Suction Power and Brush Performance
The suction gap between these models is substantial. The S5X delivers 18,500 Pa, which handles most household debris effectively. The CurvX pushes this to 22,000 Pa, providing noticeably stronger pickup on carpets and in crevices where dust accumulates.
Both use Roborock's DuoDivide anti-tangle brush system. This design channels hair and fibres toward the central suction point rather than wrapping them around the roller. For homes with long hair or shedding pets, this matters considerably. The brush dismounts easily for the occasional maintenance it does require.
A meaningful difference emerges in how the main brush behaves during mopping. The CurvX can lift its main brush whilst mopping, preventing the roller from dragging across wet floors or redistributing dirt. The S5X lacks this function, meaning the brush stays in contact with the floor throughout mopping cycles.
The side brush setup is identical: both feature an extending arm that reaches into corners more effectively than fixed designs, and both incorporate anti-tangle technology. Neither model lifts the side brush during mopping, which can sometimes flick water droplets but ensures thorough edge cleaning.
Mopping Systems and Water Management
Both robots use dual rotating mops that extend to reach skirting boards and edges. This extension function addresses one of the traditional weaknesses of round robot aspirators, which typically leave a gap along walls.
The mop lifting differs between models. The S5X raises its mops by 10 mm when moving onto carpets or rugs. The CurvX offers variable lifting from 7 mm to 17 mm, adapting to different carpet heights and providing greater clearance when needed. This flexibility means the CurvX can handle thicker rugs without dragging wet mops across them.
Both bases wash mops with hot water and dry them using heated air. This prevents the musty smell that develops when mops remain damp. The base self-cleaning has been upgraded from version 2.0 on the S5X to 3.0 on the CurvX, suggesting improved maintenance of the washing tray itself, though Roborock hasn't detailed what this version change entails.
Dirt detection works on both models, identifying heavily soiled areas for additional passes and detecting when mops need washing mid-cycle. Neither robot removes its mops automatically at the base when switching to vacuum-only mode, so you'll need to detach them manually if you want pure aspiration without mopping.
Navigation Technologies
The navigation architecture differs fundamentally. The S5X uses a traditional LiDAR turret—the raised dome visible on top of most robot aspirators. This system maps spaces accurately and navigates reliably, but the turret adds height.
The CurvX employs retractable LiDAR. The sensor extends when needed for mapping, then retracts to reduce the robot's profile. Combined with its lower overall height of 79.8 mm versus 98 mm, this allows the CurvX to access spaces under furniture that the S5X simply cannot reach.
The CurvX adds dual AI cameras and a 3D laser sensor at the front. These enable it to recognise 108 different obstacle types, including pets, and adjust behaviour accordingly. The S5X has obstacle avoidance but lacks the camera system, so it can't visually identify what it's avoiding or provide remote camera access.
Pet owners will find the CurvX's recognition particularly useful. The robot can detect animals and modify its approach to avoid startling them. The LED night vision means the cameras function even in dim conditions. Remote camera access lets you check on pets or your home whilst away, adding a security dimension beyond cleaning.
Both run Roborock's SmartPlan 2.0 and Mason 11.0 algorithm, so the underlying intelligence for route planning and efficiency is identical. The difference lies in sensory input: the CurvX simply sees and understands more.
Battery Life and Coverage
The S5X contains a 5,200 mAh battery providing 180 minutes of runtime. The CurvX increases this to 6,400 mAh and 220 minutes. That extra 40 minutes translates to larger areas covered per charge, reducing the need for mid-clean returns to the base in expansive homes.
In practical terms, the S5X handles most flats and medium-sized houses comfortably. The CurvX suits larger properties where extended runtime prevents the interruption of recharging breaks. Both return to the base automatically when battery runs low, recharge, and resume where they left off.
Advanced Capabilities
Obstacle climbing reveals another significant gap. The S5X manages 20 mm steps—enough for standard door thresholds and modest lips between rooms. The CurvX introduces an adaptive system that handles both single and double steps, climbing obstacles up to 40 mm. This makes it considerably more capable in homes with varied floor levels, raised shower trays, or thick carpet borders.
The CurvX includes a proprietary voice assistant, allowing direct voice commands to the robot without routing through Alexa or Google Home. Both models support external voice assistants, but the built-in option on the CurvX offers an additional layer of control.
Base Station Features
The base stations share the same footprint at 450 mm in each dimension and identical tank capacities: 4 litres for clean water, 3 litres for dirty water, and a 2.5 litre dust bag. Both self-empty the robot's dust bin, wash mops with hot water, and dry them with heated air.
The upgrade to version 3.0 self-cleaning on the CurvX suggests improved maintenance of the base's internal washing mechanism, potentially reducing how often you need to manually clean the tray. Neither base offers UV disinfection or a detergent dispenser, and neither supports connection to household plumbing—there's no kit available for automatic water refilling or drainage.
Physical Dimensions
The diameter difference is negligible: 352 mm versus 353 mm. The height difference is dramatic. At 98 mm, the S5X won't fit under furniture with low clearance. The CurvX, at 79.8 mm, accesses a far greater proportion of typical homes. Sofas, bed frames, and cabinets often sit between 80 mm and 100 mm off the floor, making those extra 18 mm genuinely transformative.
The trade-off appears in onboard storage. The S5X carries a 325 ml dust bin and 80 ml water tank. The CurvX reduces these to 258 ml and 69 ml respectively to accommodate its slimmer profile. Given both robots return to the base regularly for emptying and mop washing, this reduction rarely matters in practice.
Real-World Performance
For smaller flats or homes under 100 square metres, the S5X delivers comprehensive cleaning. Its 180-minute runtime suffices, and the 98 mm height won't be problematic if your furniture sits higher. The 18,500 Pa suction handles hard floors, tiles, and low-pile carpets effectively.
Larger properties benefit from the CurvX's extended battery and coverage. The ability to slip under more furniture means less manual vacuuming of neglected spaces. The 22,000 Pa suction provides better performance on thicker carpets and in homes where dirt accumulation is heavier—rural properties, homes with multiple pets, or families with young children.
Pet owners should lean toward the CurvX. The AI recognition prevents the robot from disturbing animals, the camera lets you check on them remotely, and the stronger suction collects more fur. The DuoDivide brush on both models reduces hair tangles, but the CurvX's overall package suits pet households better.
The CurvX's ability to climb higher obstacles makes it suitable for homes with complex floor plans: split-levels, bathroom step-ups, or thick rug transitions. The S5X works best in single-level spaces with minimal height variation between rooms.
Conclusion: Which to Choose?
Choose the Roborock Qrevo Curv S5X if: you have a smaller home under 100 square metres, furniture clearance exceeds 100 mm, and you want Roborock's quality without needing the absolute latest features. It's a thoroughly capable robot aspirator that handles the fundamentals excellently—strong suction, effective mopping, hot water mop washing, and reliable navigation. For flats or modest houses without pets, it represents a more accessible entry to Roborock's premium tier.
Choose the Roborock Qrevo CurvX if: you want the best robot aspirator Roborock offers in 2025. The lower height unlocks access under furniture that most robots miss. The extended battery covers larger homes without interruption. The AI cameras, pet recognition, and remote viewing add intelligence and security. The stronger suction and improved obstacle climbing make it more capable across varied home environments. For larger properties, homes with pets, or anyone wanting maximum automation and minimal intervention, the CurvX justifies its position as the flagship model.
