From the S5 to the S8 — How Roborock’s Flagship Line Evolved

The Roborock S Series helped define the modern robot vacuum market. Models like the S5, S6, and especially the S7 introduced features that later became standard across premium robot vacuums, including LiDAR navigation, sonic mopping, and mop lifting.

While many older S Series models are now discontinued, the lineup still matters because it shows how Roborock evolved into newer platforms like the Qrevo and Saros series.

If you are trying to decide between old and new Roborock models, this guide explains:

• which S Series models are still worth considering
• what changed between generations
• what replaced the S Series today

S8 MaxV Ultra vs Saros Models

The newer Saros lineup introduces slimmer designs, retractable LiDAR systems, and improved corner cleaning. However, many users still prefer the S8 MaxV Ultra because of its strong carpet cleaning, reliable obstacle avoidance, and mature software platform.

How the Roborock S Series Evolved

Roborock S5

The S5 was one of the first robot vacuums to combine:

• reliable LiDAR navigation
• strong suction
• room mapping
• good battery life

At the time, it became one of the best-value robot vacuums available.

However, compared to modern Roborock models, the S5 lacks:

• self-empty docks
• obstacle avoidance
• advanced mopping
• carpet detection improvements
• modern app automation

Today, the S5 mainly makes sense as a very cheap refurbished option.

Roborock S6

The S6 refined the S5 platform with:

• quieter operation
• faster mapping
• improved room management
• slightly better navigation

But it still used basic mopping and older obstacle handling.

Compared to modern Qrevo or Saros models, the S6 feels noticeably outdated in homes with:

• pets
• cables
• mixed flooring
• heavy mopping needs

Roborock S7

The S7 was a major turning point for Roborock.

Key improvements included:

• sonic mopping
• automatic mop lifting
• improved carpet handling
• stronger cleaning consistency

The S7 introduced many features that later shaped the premium robot vacuum market.

Even today, the S7 still performs reasonably well on hard floors and mixed surfaces.

Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra

The S7 MaxV Ultra remains one of the most important Roborock models ever released.

Why it mattered:

• first major AI obstacle avoidance system
• powerful self-empty dock
• automatic mop washing
• advanced home mapping

Even in 2026, the S7 MaxV Ultra is still a strong premium robot vacuum for many homes.

For some users, it remains a better value than newer flagship models.

Roborock S8 Series

The S8 generation improved:

• dual roller vacuuming
• edge cleaning
• obstacle avoidance
• dock automation
• carpet cleaning performance

The S8 Pro Ultra and S8 MaxV Ultra are still among Roborock’s best traditional flagship robot vacuums.

However, Roborock’s newer Qrevo and Saros platforms have gradually become the company’s main focus.

What Replaced the Roborock S Series?

Over time, Roborock split its premium lineup into two major directions:

Qrevo Series

The Qrevo lineup became the company’s:

• better value premium option
• mainstream flagship platform

Compared to older S Series robots, Qrevo models offer:

• spinning mop pads
• better dock systems
• easier maintenance
• strong overall value

The Qrevo series is now one of the best choices for buyers wanting premium features without ultra-flagship pricing.

Saros Series

The Saros lineup represents Roborock’s newest premium direction.

Key upgrades include:

• advanced obstacle avoidance
• retractable LiDAR systems
• improved edge cleaning
• lower-profile designs
• smarter automation

The Saros models are designed more for:

• premium homes
• cluttered environments
• advanced automation users

Are Older Roborock S Series Models Still Worth Buying?

Still reasonable

• S7
• S7 MaxV Ultra
• some S8 models

These can still compete surprisingly well, depending on price.

Best Upgrade Paths From Older S Series Models

Upgrading from the S5 or S6

Best options:

• Roborock Q10 Max+
• Qrevo series
• Saros series

These provide huge improvements in:

• navigation
• docking
• mopping
• automation

Upgrading from the S7

Good upgrade paths:

• Qrevo Curv
• S8 MaxV Ultra
• Saros 10

Main improvements:

• stronger dock automation
• better edge cleaning
• improved obstacle avoidance

Which Roborock Series Is Best Today?

Best value premium lineup

Qrevo Series

Best traditional flagship lineup

S8 Series

Most advanced Roborock platform

Saros Series

Final Thoughts

The Roborock S Series played a massive role in the evolution of robot vacuums. Models like the S5 and S7 helped establish many of the features that are now standard across premium robot vacuum systems.

While some older S Series models are now outdated, the lineup still matters because it explains how Roborock evolved into today’s Qrevo and Saros ecosystems.

For most buyers in 2026:

• Qrevo models offer the best value
• Saros models offer the most advanced technology
• Newer S8 models remain strong all-around premium options

If you are buying today, newer Roborock platforms are usually the better long-term investment.

• Roborock Qrevo Series Explained
• Roborock Saros Series
• Best Robot Vacuums 2026