SwitchBot recently introduced the S20 robot vacuum as the follow up to the S10. Both are floor cleaning robots that combine vacuuming and mopping with a high level of performance. At first glance they look very similar, but there are some clear differences that set them apart. After testing both models, I decided to write an overview post highlighting the key differences.
Vacuuming Performance
I’ve been using the S10 as a daily driver ever since it was released. The S10 was already a capable cleaner with suction power rated at around 6500 Pa. This is enough for most households, but it can struggle with very thick and bushy carpets. Creating no-go zones was the solution I went for, getting around a single rug of this type I have in my home.
The S20 increases suction to 10000 Pa. On paper this is a clear upgrade which you can also see in practice, especially when vacuuming carpets. Dust that the S10 would sometimes miss is more consistently removed with the S20. Along edges and corners the stronger suction also helps, since airflow tends to be weaker in those areas.
Both models use the same rubber roller brush. Hair still collects here and there, so the occasional manual cleanup is unavoidable. The higher suction on the S20 does reduce how much wraps around, but the brush design itself has not changed.
Mopping System
Mopping is where both robots stand apart from many other brands. Instead of flat pads, they use a RevoRoll system that continuously washes itself during operation. The S10 uses a rinse and drain cycle that keeps the roller fairly clean as it moves from room to room. I have never encountered left over stains or drip marks on the S10.
The S20 takes the idea even further. Its rinse cycle is broken into four stages and the mop is scrubbed at about 300 rotations per minute. SwitchBot also added one kilogram of downward pressure on the mop. This is a noticeable difference when dealing with stuck stains on tile or kitchen floors. While the S10 can freshen up a surface, the S20 is better at handling marks that require more force to remove.
Docking and Maintenance
One of the biggest selling points of the S10 is its dual station setup. It ships with two docks. One empties the dustbin and dries the mop while the other connects to your home’s water system for automatic refills and drainage. Optionally, you can go for the canister version which does not need a plumbing connection. Once installed, you rarely need to touch the robot except to replace or empty the dust bag every few weeks.
In my own home, I installed the water station under the kitchen cupboards. Since the S10 does not hang around this station and only refills and dumps water when it needs to, its not an issue for this station position. It looks very integrated and seamless, which is why I love this separated dual station design.
The S20 simplifies this into what SwitchBot calls a MultiClean station. Instead of two water docks you have one unit that takes care of dust disposal, mop cleaning, water refill and waste drainage in cannisters. Alternatively, you can get the same MultiClean station with a plumbing connection instead. The mop drying system is also improved. The S10 blows ambient air across the roller, while the S20 uses hot air at about 50 degrees Celsius. That keeps the roller fresher and reduces the chance of mold growth.
Navigation and Smart Features
Both robots map with LiDAR and avoid obstacles with an onboard AI camera. In day to day use the experience is very close. The S20 feels a touch more confident around clutter and it is rated to climb up to 20 mm thresholds. Control is the same through the SwitchBot app with the usual room maps, schedules, and no-go zones. Voice assistant support and Matter remain available, with feature coverage that can vary by platform.
It’s important to note that the S20 ships with Matter 1.4 out of the box. Which means you can start cleaning, select rooms, select cleaning modes, toggle vacuum and mop mode, and active preset smart scenes. While the S10 is already certified and bound to receive Matter 1.4 support, it’s still on Matter 1.2, which means it support just basic on/off control. This is important for Home Assistant users, as HA supports 1.4 out of the box.
Final Thoughts
The SwitchBot S10 already delivers a very automated cleaning experience. It vacuums with good power, keeps its mop reasonably fresh, and takes much of the manual work out of floor care. The S20 refines that formula with stronger suction, higher mop pressure, and a more advanced dock that handles drying more effectively.
If you already own the S10, the upgrades alone are not enough to make replacing it worthwhile. It still holds its ground and will serve most households well. The battery life remains the same, as both use a 4000mAh lithium battery. However, if you are looking to buy a new SwitchBot robot vacuum today, the S20 is the one to go for. It offers a more complete package and will require less effort to maintain over time.
