Skip the self-emptying base.

Probably not.

It sounds amazing, I get it. But the reality is less glamorous. The base is loud when it empties — like a mini jet engine for ten seconds. It takes up space. And the proprietary bags cost money, which you’ll be buying regularly. Unless you have two shedding dogs and a sandbox indoors, you’re paying a premium to avoid 30 seconds of labor every few days.

The robot’s onboard dustbin is small, but it’s fine for daily maintenance in most homes. If you run it daily, you’ll empty it maybe twice a week. That’s two minutes of your life. A self-emptying base costs an extra $100–200 and adds a recurring expense. The math doesn’t work for me.

Now, if you have severe allergies and can’t handle dust exposure, or if you’re running the vac on a huge floor while you’re away for days, maybe. But for 95% of people: your arm works fine.

Your arm is cheaper and quieter.