Introduction
The Dreame X40 Ultra and the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra represent two of the most advanced robot vacuum propositions launched in 2024. Both units belong to the premium range of their respective brands and feature complete multifunctional bases that wash and dry the mops automatically. We're looking at solutions designed for users seeking maximum automation in home cleaning, with the ability to both vacuum and mop without constant manual intervention.
Dreame presents a model with very aggressive specifications in several technical areas, whilst Roborock opts for the maturity of its ecosystem and some distinctive mopping solutions. The choice between one or the other will depend on the specific priorities of each household: raw power, tank capacity, height to pass under furniture or preferred mopping system.
Power and Suction
The suction power marks a notable difference. The Dreame X40 Ultra offers 12000 Pa in Turbo mode, whilst the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra stays at 10000 Pa. In practice, this difference can be especially noticeable on medium or long pile carpets, where the ability to extract embedded dirt improves with greater power.
Regarding the main brush, we find different philosophies. The Dreame equips a simple anti-tangle brush that can be fitted as an accessory, whilst the Roborock integrates its double DuoDivide brush as standard, specifically designed to push hairs towards the centre and reduce tangles. Both systems work well, although the DuoDivide comes already installed without needing to purchase anything additional.
Both robots can lift the main brush during mopping, preventing it from getting unnecessarily wet. However, the side brush presents important differences. The Dreame X40 Ultra includes a liftable and anti-tangle side brush, as well as being extendable. The Roborock also has an extendable side brush, but cannot lift it nor does it feature an anti-tangle system. For households with long-haired pets, this can make the difference in daily maintenance.
Mopping
The mopping system is where these models diverge most. The Dreame X40 Ultra uses two rotating mops with 3.0 extension and Roboswing technology, which allows the robot to make a lateral movement to get the mop under furniture overhangs. The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra opts for a vibratory mop with an additional mini side mop to better reach edges.
Mop lifting clearly favours the Roborock: 20 mm versus the Dreame's 10.5 mm. This is fundamental if you have high-pile carpets, as the robot can lift them sufficiently to avoid wetting them during mopping. The Dreame partially compensates for this limitation with the possibility of leaving the mops directly at the base when you only want to vacuum, a function the Roborock doesn't have.
Both wash the mops with hot water. The Dreame does so at 70°C, whilst the Roborock also uses hot water without specifying the exact temperature in the table. Drying also employs hot air in both cases: 45°C in the Dreame and hot air in the Roborock. Both models detect dirt both on the mops and on the floor, automatically adjusting the cleaning process.
Navigation System
Both robots mount a Lidar 3D turret to map the home with precision. Laser navigation guarantees efficient trajectories and reliable maps even in low-light conditions. Both incorporate dual camera with artificial intelligence and front 3D laser sensor to avoid obstacles.
The Dreame X40 Ultra recognises up to 120 different types of obstacles, a figure significantly higher than the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra's 73. This larger database can translate into better identification of uncommon objects in the home. Both recognise pets, but only the Dreame detects curtains, which prevents it from getting tangled in them.
Both models allow remote camera access and feature LED for night vision. The Dreame uses the CleanGenius system whilst the Roborock employs SmartPlan 1.0 for AI intelligent cleaning. In processing, the Dreame mounts AI Sage 11.0 Qualcomm and the Roborock the RR Mason 11.0.
Autonomy and Battery
The Dreame X40 Ultra equips a 6400 mAh battery that offers 194 minutes of autonomy. The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra mounts 5200 mAh with 180 minutes of operation. The 14-minute difference may seem minor, but in large homes those additional minutes allow completing the cleaning without needing intermediate recharges.
The Dreame's greater battery capacity proves especially useful if you combine vacuuming and mopping on large surfaces, as energy consumption increases with the mops active. In practice, both robots manage automatic recharging well and resume cleaning where they left off if they run out of battery mid-job.
Smart Functions
The Dreame X40 Ultra can overcome obstacles up to 22 mm in height, whilst the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra reaches 20 mm. Those additional 2 mm can make the difference with certain types of carpets or transitions between floors. Neither incorporates a robotic arm.
Regarding voice assistants, the Roborock includes a simple assistant integrated into the robot itself. The Dreame X40 Ultra doesn't have its own voice assistant, although both models are compatible with external assistants through their respective mobile applications.
Multifunctional Cleaning Base
The multifunctional bases of both robots perform auto-emptying, mop washing and drying. The Dreame X40 Ultra incorporates second-generation tray self-cleaning already installed as standard, a system that keeps the actual tray where the mops are washed clean. The Roborock doesn't include this function.
Tank capacity favours the Dreame: 3.2 L dust bag versus 2.5 L, 4.5 L clean water tank versus 4 L, and 4 L dirty water tank versus 3.5 L. These differences are noticeable in maintenance frequency: with the Dreame you'll space out emptying and refilling more.
Both have a detergent tank. The Dreame offers an optional plumbing connection kit that's purchased separately, something that may interest those wanting to completely forget about water maintenance, although it doesn't come as standard. Neither incorporates UV disinfection.
Dimensions
The Dreame X40 Ultra measures 97 mm in height, whilst the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra reaches 103 mm. Those 6 mm of difference can prove decisive for passing under certain furniture, sofas or low beds. The diameter is practically identical: 350 mm on the Dreame and 353 mm on the Roborock.
Regarding the bases, the Dreame is 340 mm wide, 590.5 mm tall and 456.7 mm deep. The Roborock measures 409 mm wide, 470 mm tall and 419 mm deep. The Dreame's base is taller but narrower, whilst the Roborock's is lower but wider. It's advisable to measure the available space before deciding.
Real-World Usage Experience
For large homes, the Dreame X40 Ultra offers clear advantages: greater autonomy, larger tanks and superior suction power. This translates into fewer interruptions and greater capacity to clean extensive surfaces in one go. The reduced height also helps to clean under more furniture.
If you have high-pile carpets, the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra stands out for its 20 mm mop lifting, which doubles the Dreame's. This avoids wetting carpets during mopping more effectively. However, the Dreame counteracts this by allowing the mops to be left at the base when you only want to vacuum.
In homes with pets, the Dreame's liftable and anti-tangle side brush reduces daily maintenance. The Roborock compensates with its double DuoDivide main brush already installed as standard, which also minimises tangles. Both systems work well, although the Dreame adds more anti-tangle elements overall.
The Dreame's tray self-cleaning reduces manual intervention in base maintenance. The Roborock requires manually cleaning the washing tray more frequently. For those seeking maximum automation, this may weigh in the decision.
Conclusion: Which to Choose?
Choose the Dreame X40 Ultra if... you have a large home where you can take advantage of its greater autonomy and tank capacity. Also if you're seeking maximum suction power, need to pass under low furniture thanks to its 97 mm height, or value tray self-cleaning and the possibility of leaving the mops at the base. Its liftable and anti-tangle side brush proves ideal with long-haired pets. The relationship between features and price is usually competitive with Dreame.
Choose the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra if... you have high-pile carpets and need 20 mm mop lifting to avoid wetting them. Also if you prefer the DuoDivide double brush system already installed as standard, or value the maturity of the Roborock ecosystem with its established application. Its vibratory mop with mini side mop may adapt better to certain floor types. It's the most balanced option if you don't need the Dreame's extreme power.
