Introduction
Roborock's Qrevo Curv series represents the brand's premium offering in the robot vacuum market for 2024 and 2025. We're looking at three models here: the Roborock Qrevo Curv and Qrevo Curv S5X from 2024, alongside the newer Qrevo CurvX arriving in 2025. All three share the brand's reputation for reliability and sophisticated engineering, but they're positioned at different points within the premium spectrum.
These aren't entry-level machines. Each model features multifunctional bases with hot water mop washing and hot air drying, dual rotating mops with edge extension, and Roborock's DuoDivide anti-tangle brush system. The differences between them reveal themselves in navigation sophistication, obstacle recognition capabilities, suction power, and battery capacity. Understanding which features matter for your home makes the difference between choosing the right model and overspending on capabilities you won't use.
Key Differences at a Glance
- The Qrevo CurvX delivers 22,000 Pa suction versus 18,500 Pa in the other two models
- The S5X lacks the dual AI camera system present in the Curv and CurvX
- Only the Curv and CurvX feature retractable main brushes during mopping
- Battery capacity drops to 5,200 mAh in the S5X compared to 6,400 mAh in the Curv and CurvX
- The CurvX achieves a remarkably low 79.8 mm height with its retractable LiDAR system
- Obstacle recognition jumps from 62 objects in the Curv to 108 in the CurvX
- The S5X removes several smart features: no front 3D laser sensor, no LED night vision, no remote camera access, no voice assistant
- The CurvX upgrades to self-cleaning tray version 3.0
Suction Power and Brushing
The Qrevo CurvX pushes suction to 22,000 Pa, a noticeable step up from the 18,500 Pa shared by the Curv and S5X. In practice, this translates to better performance on thick carpets and improved deep-cleaning of embedded dirt. For homes with multiple rugs or high-pile carpeting, that extra power makes itself felt.
All three models use Roborock's DuoDivide anti-tangle brush design, which channels hair towards the central suction point rather than wrapping it around the roller. This matters considerably for pet owners who'd otherwise spend time cutting tangled fur from traditional brush bars. The side brushes on each model extend to reach into corners and feature anti-tangle construction as well.
Where the S5X diverges is in brush elevation. The Curv and CurvX lift their main brushes during mopping to avoid dragging a wet roller across your floors, whilst the S5X keeps its brush lowered throughout. This isn't necessarily problematic, but it does mean the S5X can't claim the same level of mopping purity. None of the models lift their side brushes during wet cleaning, which remains standard across the range.
Mopping System
Dual rotating mops with edge extension appear across all three models, allowing them to press right up against skirting boards and clean areas that typically get missed. Each robot elevates its mops when crossing carpets, though the heights vary: the Curv lifts between 10-20 mm, the S5X manages 10 mm, and the CurvX offers 7-17 mm. These differences reflect different mechanical approaches rather than performance hierarchy.
The multifunctional bases wash mops with hot water at 60°C and dry them with heated air, preventing the musty smell that plagues robots with basic cleaning stations. During a mopping session, each robot returns periodically to rinse its pads, ensuring it's always cleaning with fresh mops rather than spreading dirty water around. This is what separates adequate mopping from genuinely effective floor washing.
All three models detect dirt on their mops and on the floor itself, adjusting their cleaning patterns accordingly. When the sensors register stubborn marks, the robot increases pressure and makes additional passes. None of the models automatically detach their mops at the base for vacuum-only operation, so you'll need to remove them manually if you want pure suction cleaning.
Navigation and Intelligence
This is where the models diverge most dramatically. The Qrevo Curv and CurvX both feature dual AI cameras, front-facing 3D laser sensors, and LED illumination for night-time navigation. The S5X strips all of this away, relying solely on its LiDAR turret for mapping without the visual intelligence layer.
In real terms, the dual camera system enables the Curv and CurvX to recognise specific objects and respond appropriately. The Curv identifies 62 different obstacles, whilst the CurvX has been trained on 108. This means the more advanced models can distinguish between a shoe, a charging cable, and pet waste, avoiding each with appropriate caution. The S5X simply detects "object" and navigates around it without understanding what it's seeing.
Pet owners will notice this difference immediately. The Curv and CurvX specifically recognise animals and can even provide remote camera access through the app, letting you check on pets whilst you're out. The S5X offers none of this. Similarly, the LED night vision on the premium models allows effective cleaning in darkness, where the S5X's performance drops without adequate lighting.
The CurvX introduces a retractable LiDAR system that tucks away when not needed, contributing to its exceptionally low profile. This is pure engineering refinement rather than a functional advantage, but it demonstrates the 2025 model's evolution.
Battery and Autonomy
The Qrevo Curv and CurvX pack 6,400 mAh batteries delivering 240 and 220 minutes of runtime respectively. The S5X drops to 5,200 mAh with 180 minutes of autonomy. For smaller homes under 100 square metres, this difference barely registers. For larger properties, that extra hour of runtime means the Curv and CurvX can complete a full clean without returning to recharge mid-session.
The S5X's reduced battery capacity isn't necessarily a weakness. It still covers substantial areas before needing to dock, and the robot will automatically resume cleaning after charging if needed. The question is whether you value the convenience of single-session cleaning for larger spaces.
Smart Features
All three models navigate obstacles effectively, but their climbing abilities differ. The Curv and CurvX handle simple steps and thresholds more aggressively than the S5X's 20 mm maximum. This matters for homes with raised doorways or thick carpet transitions.
The Curv and CurvX include Roborock's own voice assistant, allowing direct voice commands to the robot without routing through Alexa or Google Home. The S5X removes this feature, though it still integrates with external voice assistants. Whether you'll actually talk to your vacuum is debatable, but the option exists for those who want it.
Multifunctional Base Station
Each model features an identical base footprint at 450 mm cubed, with 2.5-litre dust bags, 4-litre clean water tanks, and 3-litre dirty water reservoirs. This is generous capacity that reduces maintenance frequency considerably. The bases auto-empty dust, wash mops with 60°C water, and dry them with heated air.
The meaningful difference appears in the self-cleaning tray system. The Curv and S5X use version 2.0, whilst the CurvX upgrades to 3.0. This newer system cleans the washing tray more thoroughly, reducing residue buildup that can cause odours over time. It's a refinement rather than a revolution, but it contributes to lower maintenance demands.
None of the models include detergent dispensers or UV sterilisation. There's no option for plumbed water connection, either integrated or via optional kit. These remain premium features reserved for even higher-tier models.
Physical Dimensions
The Qrevo CurvX measures just 79.8 mm tall, making it the clear winner for accessing tight spaces under furniture. The S5X stands at 98 mm, whilst the Curv reaches 103 mm. That 23 mm difference between the CurvX and S5X determines whether the robot can clean under your sofa or must navigate around it.
All three models share essentially identical 352-353 mm diameters, so their footprint remains consistent. The CurvX achieves its low profile through the retractable LiDAR turret, which pops up only when needed for mapping. This engineering allows it to duck under obstacles that would stop the other models.
The onboard dust bins vary slightly: 325 ml in the Curv and S5X versus 258 ml in the CurvX. Given that all three auto-empty to the base station regularly, this difference has minimal practical impact. Water tanks hold 80 ml in the Curv and S5X, dropping to 69 ml in the CurvX, again a negligible variation given the frequent base returns during mopping.
Real-World Performance
For larger homes above 150 square metres, the extended battery life of the Curv and CurvX proves valuable. The ability to complete a full clean without interruption saves time and ensures consistent coverage. Smaller flats and apartments find the S5X's 180-minute runtime perfectly adequate.
Pet owners should seriously consider the dual camera systems in the Curv and CurvX. The ability to recognise animals and access the camera remotely adds genuine value beyond marketing features. The anti-tangle brush system across all models handles pet hair effectively, but the visual intelligence of the premium models provides better obstacle avoidance around pet toys and feeding areas.
Homes with low-clearance furniture benefit enormously from the CurvX's 79.8 mm height. If you've struggled with previous robots getting stuck or missing entire sections under sofas and beds, this model solves that frustration. The S5X at 98 mm offers a middle ground, whilst the Curv at 103 mm suits homes with standard furniture clearances.
The 22,000 Pa suction in the CurvX makes the most difference on thick carpets and rugs. For homes with primarily hard floors or low-pile carpeting, the 18,500 Pa in the other models provides ample power. This isn't a criticism of the Curv or S5X; it's simply that extreme suction becomes relevant only in specific circumstances.
Conclusion: Which Model Suits You?
Choose the Roborock Qrevo Curv if you want the full smart feature set with dual cameras, pet recognition, and remote viewing, but don't need the absolute maximum suction power or lowest profile. It offers excellent battery life and brush elevation during mopping, making it a well-rounded premium choice for homes up to 200 square metres with pets and mixed flooring.
Choose the Roborock Qrevo Curv S5X if you're looking to save money without sacrificing core cleaning performance. You'll lose the AI cameras, 3D sensors, and some smart features, but the fundamental cleaning capability remains strong. This suits smaller homes under 120 square metres where extended battery life and visual intelligence matter less than reliable vacuuming and mopping at a lower price point.
Choose the Roborock Qrevo CurvX if you want the most advanced model with maximum suction, the lowest profile for furniture access, improved obstacle recognition, and the latest base self-cleaning technology. The 2025 release brings refinements throughout, making it the best option for larger homes with complex layouts, pets, thick carpets, and low furniture clearances. The premium price buys you the most capable robot vacuum Roborock currently offers.
