Half-inch thresholds are fine for most robot vacuums.

Yes, most current robot vacuums can climb a 0.5-inch threshold without much trouble. That’s actually the standard height they’re designed for—many manufacturers list a “threshold climb” spec around 0.6 to 0.8 inches.

The bigger issue is the shape of the threshold. A sharp, square edge is harder to climb than a beveled or rounded one. If your threshold is a flat metal strip with a 90-degree lip, some vacs might bump into it repeatedly or get stuck. But a typical wooden or tile transition strip with a slight slope? No problem.

Older or budget models (under $200) might struggle more, especially if they have smaller wheels. The newer mid-range and high-end ones (Roomba, Roborock, Dreame, etc.) generally handle it. If you’re worried, check the specs for “cliff sensor” placement—if sensors are too close to the front, they might mistake the threshold for a drop and refuse to go over.

One thing to watch: the vac might climb the threshold but then get stuck on the other side if the clearance is tight. Measure the gap under furniture after the threshold—sometimes they clear the bump but then wedge themselves.

But for a standard 0.5-inch threshold between rooms? Odds are good it’ll work. If it doesn’t, a simple adhesive ramp (cheap on Amazon) fixes it.