Introduction
The Roborock Qrevo Edge S5A and Roborock QV 35S represent two distinct approaches within Roborock's 2024-2025 lineup. The Edge S5A, launched in 2024, sits at a higher tier with its 18,500 Pa suction power and advanced features designed for thorough cleaning. The QV 35S arrives in 2025 as a more accessible option, delivering 10,000 Pa suction whilst maintaining the core capabilities that define the brand's reputation for reliability.
Both models feature multifunctional bases that handle automatic emptying, mop washing and drying—essential for anyone wanting genuinely hands-off floor maintenance. The differences between them become apparent when examining the details: the Edge S5A incorporates several refinements that enhance edge cleaning and dirt detection, whilst the QV 35S offers solid performance without these additional layers of automation.
Suction Power and Brushing System
The suction difference is substantial. At 18,500 Pa, the Roborock Qrevo Edge S5A delivers nearly double the airflow of the QV 35S's 10,000 Pa. In practice, this translates to better performance on carpets, rugs and in homes where pet hair or fine dust accumulates quickly. The QV 35S still offers respectable suction for hard floors and low-pile carpets, but won't match the deeper extraction capability of the Edge S5A.
The Edge S5A employs Roborock's DuoDivide anti-tangle brush, which channels hair and debris towards the central suction inlet to minimise tangling. The QV 35S relies on a standard brush design. For households with long hair or pets, this distinction matters: the DuoDivide system reduces maintenance frequency and keeps the brush roller cleaner between sessions.
Both models include anti-tangle side brushes, but only the Edge S5A features an extensible side brush. This extends outward to sweep corners and edges more effectively, capturing debris that would otherwise be missed. The QV 35S uses a fixed side brush, which still performs adequately but won't reach as thoroughly into tight spaces.
Neither model offers brush elevation during mopping or main brush lift, so both share the same limitations when transitioning between vacuuming and wet cleaning modes.
Mopping Performance
Both robots use dual rotating mops and can lift them 10 mm to avoid carpets or rugs. The Edge S5A distinguishes itself with extendable mops that reach closer to skirting boards and furniture edges, addressing one of the common weak points in robot mopping. The QV 35S lacks this extension, leaving a small margin along walls that may require manual attention.
Dirt detection represents another key difference. The Edge S5A can identify soiled areas on both the floor surface and the mops themselves, adjusting cleaning intensity or triggering additional passes as needed. The QV 35S operates without this feedback loop, following pre-set mopping patterns regardless of actual dirt levels. For kitchens or high-traffic areas, the adaptive approach of the Edge S5A proves more effective.
Both models return to their bases during cleaning to wash the mops, ensuring they're always working with relatively clean pads. This periodic rinsing makes a tangible difference compared to robots that drag dirty mops across entire floors.
Base Station Capabilities
The multifunctional bases on both models handle automatic dust emptying into 2.7-litre bags, mop washing and drying. Water tank capacities are identical: 4 litres for clean water and 3.5 litres for waste water. Neither includes a detergent dispenser, UV disinfection or integrated plumbing connections, though no optional kit exists for aftermarket installation either.
The critical differences lie in washing and drying temperatures. The Edge S5A washes mops with hot water and dries them using heated air, accelerating drying times and reducing the risk of odours or bacterial growth. The QV 35S uses cold water for washing and cold air for drying, which still works but takes longer and may not eliminate smells as effectively in humid environments.
Base Tray Autoclean 2.0 appears exclusively on the Edge S5A, automating the cleaning of the washing tray itself to prevent residue build-up. The QV 35S requires manual tray cleaning, adding a maintenance step that the Edge S5A eliminates.
Navigation and Intelligence
Both robots navigate using 3D LiDAR turrets, providing accurate mapping and efficient route planning. Obstacle avoidance is present on each model, though neither incorporates AI cameras, 3D laser sensors, night vision LEDs or remote camera access. Pet recognition, curtain detection and object identification are absent from both units.
The Edge S5A runs SmartPlan 2.0 alongside the RR Mason 11.0 algorithm, offering more refined cleaning strategies and better adaptation to room layouts. The QV 35S operates on SmartPlan 1.0, which remains capable but lacks the additional optimisations of the newer software. In real-world use, this manifests as slightly more efficient path planning and faster room coverage on the Edge S5A.
Both support external voice assistants like Alexa and Google Home, but neither includes a proprietary voice assistant.
Battery and Runtime
Battery specifications are identical: 5,200 mAh capacity delivering 180 minutes of runtime. This autonomy suits homes up to approximately 200 square metres on a single charge, with the robots returning to recharge and resuming if necessary. Neither model holds an advantage in endurance or charging speed.
Smart Features
Both robots can climb obstacles up to 20 mm, handling door thresholds and minor floor transitions without assistance. Neither incorporates a robotic arm or proprietary voice assistant, keeping the feature set focused on core cleaning functions rather than experimental additions.
Dimensions and Clearance
The Edge S5A measures 352 mm in diameter and stands 98 mm tall. The QV 35S is fractionally different at 353 mm diameter and 96.5 mm height. The 1.5 mm height advantage of the QV 35S is negligible in practice; both robots fit under most furniture with similar clearance requirements.
Onboard dust bins are nearly identical—325 ml for the Edge S5A versus 330 ml for the QV 35S—with both holding 80 ml of water for mopping. Base station dimensions are completely uniform at 340 mm wide, 521 mm tall and 487 mm deep, requiring the same floor space regardless of which model you choose.
Real-World Usage Scenarios
The Roborock Qrevo Edge S5A suits larger homes, particularly those with mixed flooring including carpets, or households with pets. The higher suction power, DuoDivide brush and extendable side brush handle hair and debris more effectively, whilst the extendable mops improve edge cleaning. Hot water mop washing and heated drying reduce maintenance effort and keep the system fresher between uses. The dirt detection feature adapts to actual conditions rather than relying on fixed schedules, making it well-suited to busy kitchens or homes with children.
The QV 35S works well in smaller flats or homes with predominantly hard flooring where the lower suction remains adequate. Without extendable brushes or mops, edge cleaning won't be quite as thorough, but the core vacuuming and mopping functions still deliver solid results. Cold water washing and drying mean you'll need to check the base tray more regularly, especially in humid climates. The absence of dirt detection makes it better suited to routine maintenance rather than tackling variable mess levels.
Both models handle daily upkeep with minimal intervention thanks to their multifunctional bases, but the Edge S5A offers a more comprehensive hands-off experience for those willing to invest in the additional features.
Conclusion: Which One to Choose?
Choose the Roborock Qrevo Edge S5A if: you have a larger home, multiple floor types including carpets, or pets that shed. The 18,500 Pa suction, DuoDivide anti-tangle brush and extendable side brush manage hair and deep-seated dirt more effectively. Extendable mops and dirt detection improve mopping results, especially along edges and in high-traffic areas. Hot water mop washing and heated drying reduce odours and maintenance frequency. SmartPlan 2.0 and Base Tray Autoclean 2.0 add layers of automation that minimise your involvement. This model suits anyone prioritising thoroughness and convenience over budget.
Choose the Roborock QV 35S if: you live in a smaller flat or home with mostly hard floors, where 10,000 Pa suction suffices for routine cleaning. You're comfortable with slightly more hands-on maintenance, including periodic tray cleaning and longer mop drying times. The core functionality—automatic emptying, mop washing and drying—remains intact, making it a sensible choice if you want a multifunctional robot without paying for advanced features like dirt detection or extendable cleaning tools. It represents solid value for straightforward, daily floor maintenance.
