Introduction
The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra and the Dreame X50s Ultra represent two high-end propositions within the robot vacuum market with multifunction base stations. The Roborock model arrived in 2024 as one of the benchmarks from the world-leading brand in this segment, whilst the Dreame X50s Ultra was launched in May 2026 focusing on more advanced technical features in several key areas.
We're looking at two units designed for users seeking total autonomy in home cleaning, with base stations that handle auto-emptying, mop washing and drying. They're particularly interesting for medium-to-large sized homes where vacuuming capacity, effective mopping and minimal manual intervention are valued.
Power and Suction
The most striking difference in this section is found in the raw suction power. The Dreame X50s Ultra multiplies the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra's capacity by 3.5, reaching an impressive 35,000 Pa. In practice, this translates to greater capacity for extracting embedded dirt from carpets and more effective suction overall, although the Roborock's 10,000 Pa remains more than sufficient for most homes.
Regarding the main brush, the Roborock features a DuoDivide dual brush system that pushes hair towards the centre to facilitate suction and minimise tangles. The Dreame opts for its HyperStream technology, also with a dual brush anchored at one end, specifically designed to prevent hair from wrapping around. Both models lift the main brush during mopping, which is practical for not dragging wet dirt.
The side brush presents important differences. The Dreame X50s Ultra incorporates anti-tangle technology in the side brush and can also lift it during mopping, something the Roborock doesn't offer. This lifting is useful for preventing the side brush from interfering with the mops or dispersing water during mopping. That said, both robots feature an extendable side brush to improve corner cleaning.
Mopping
The mopping system shows relevant technical differences. The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra uses a vibrating mop that generates high-frequency movements to remove stains, whilst the Dreame X50s Ultra opts for two rotating mops that scrub the floor in a circular motion. Additionally, the Dreame incorporates hot water at 45°C for mopping the floor, a feature the Roborock doesn't include as it works with cold water.
The mop extension also differs. The Roborock has a small side mop that helps reach edges better, but the Dreame goes further with a system that combines extension and Roboswing movement, allowing the robot to get the mop under furniture and overhangs more effectively.
Regarding lifting, the Roborock can raise the mops up to 20 mm, exceeding the Dreame's 10.5 mm. This greater lift is advantageous for protecting thicker carpets. However, the Dreame X50s Ultra offers functionality that the Roborock doesn't have: automatic mop removal at the base station, which allows vacuum-only sessions without needing to remove them manually.
Both units detect dirt on both the mops and the floor, adjusting the cleaning process as necessary. This function is especially useful for ensuring efficient mopping without user intervention.
Navigation System
The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra uses a traditional 3D LiDAR turret to map the home, whilst the Dreame X50s Ultra features a retractable LiDAR that hides when not needed, contributing to its lower overall height. Both systems are precise and effective for navigation and map creation.
In the artificial intelligence department, the Dreame stands out. Its CleanGenius system recognises up to 280 different types of obstacles, a figure far superior to the 73 identified by the Roborock's SmartPlan 1.0. This translates to more refined and precise obstacle avoidance in complex situations.
The Dreame also detects curtains, a function the Roborock doesn't incorporate. This can be useful for preventing the robot from getting tangled or pulling them during cleaning. Both models feature dual AI cameras, front 3D laser sensor, LED for night vision, pet recognition and remote camera access.
Autonomy and Battery
The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra integrates a 5,200 mAh battery that offers up to 180 minutes of declared autonomy. The Dreame X50s Ultra increases the capacity to 6,400 mAh, which in theory should provide longer duration, although the manufacturer doesn't specify the exact operating minutes.
It's worth bearing in mind that the Dreame's greater suction power may consume more energy in maximum mode, so real autonomy will depend on specific usage. For very large homes, that extra battery capacity can make the difference between completing cleaning in a single session or needing an intermediate recharge.
Smart Functions
The Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra can overcome obstacles up to 20 mm in height, which allows it to navigate thick cables, small level changes or the edge of some carpets. The Dreame X50s Ultra also overcomes simple steps, although the exact specification isn't detailed beyond this general capability.
Both robots incorporate their own voice assistant and compatibility with external systems such as Alexa or Google Home, facilitating voice command control without needing to use the mobile app.
Multifunction Cleaning Base Station
The multifunction base stations of these two models are comprehensive and autonomous. Both perform auto-emptying of the dust bin, mop washing with hot water and drying with hot air, fundamental features for minimal maintenance.
The most notable difference here is the self-cleaning of the washing tray. The Dreame X50s Ultra incorporates a third-generation system that automatically cleans the tray where the mops are washed, preventing dirt accumulation and bad odours. The Roborock doesn't include this function, so it requires periodic manual cleaning of the tray.
Regarding capacities, the Dreame's dust bag reaches 3.2 litres compared to the Roborock's 2.5. The clean water tank is slightly larger in the Dreame with 4.2 litres compared to the Roborock's 4, whilst the dirty water tank is larger in the Roborock with 3.5 litres compared to the Dreame's 3. These differences are small and in practice barely affect daily use.
The Dreame offers an optional kit for plumbing connection that's purchased separately, allowing future automation of water filling and emptying. The Roborock doesn't have this option.
Dimensions
Height is an important differentiating factor. The Dreame X50s Ultra measures 79.5 mm tall, which allows it to slip under furniture and beds where the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra, with its 103 mm, cannot access. This difference of more than 2 centimetres can be decisive in homes with low furniture.
The diameter is practically identical: 352 mm in the Dreame and 353 mm in the Roborock. The base stations also present similar dimensions, although the Dreame's is somewhat more compact in width with 390 mm compared to the Roborock's 409, whilst it's slightly taller with 499 mm compared to the Roborock's 470.
Real-World Usage Experience
For large homes, the Dreame X50s Ultra offers clear advantages: greater battery capacity, larger dust bag and exceptional suction power that reduces the time needed to clean large surfaces. Its lower height allows it to access areas the Roborock cannot reach, maximising cleaning coverage.
In homes with pets, both models are effective thanks to their anti-tangle brush systems. The Dreame also adds anti-tangle protection on the side brush, which can facilitate maintenance. The greater suction power also helps extract embedded hair from carpets and upholstery.
The Dreame's hot water mopping and its ability to automatically remove the mops provide additional convenience. Those who value deeper mopping and the possibility of alternating between pure vacuuming and mopping without manual intervention will find these functions especially useful.
The Roborock stands out for its greater mop lift, ideal for protecting thick carpets, and for the proven reliability of the brand. Its navigation system, although it recognises fewer obstacles, works precisely and the Roborock app is recognised for its stability and ease of use.
Conclusion: Which One to Choose?
Choose the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra if... you're looking for a robot from an established brand with proven track record, you particularly value the 20 mm mop lift to protect thicker carpets, and you prefer a stable and recognised app ecosystem. It's also suitable if the robot's height isn't an issue in your home and you're satisfied with high-end features without needing the most extreme specifications.
Choose the Dreame X50s Ultra if... you prioritise maximum available suction power, you need the robot to pass under low furniture thanks to its 79.5 mm height, you value hot water mopping on the floor and self-cleaning of the washing tray. It's especially recommended for large houses where the greater battery capacity and dust bag make a difference, and for those seeking the most advanced technical features with functions such as automatic mop removal or recognition of up to 280 obstacles. The optional plumbing connection kit may also be interesting in the long term.
