Roborock has established itself as a prominent player in the robot vacuum market. Following our positive experience with the Saros 10, we now turn our attention to Roborock’s expansion into a new product category: washing machines.
The company is introducing three distinct washing machine models in Sweden: the Zeo One, featuring an integrated dryer (the unit under review here); the Zeo Lite, a streamlined version without drying capabilities; and the Zeo Mini, a compact model analogous to a countertop dishwasher.
Design
The Roborock Zeo One presents a large display for intuitive control, complemented by a sizable door. The overall aesthetic leans towards a sophisticated, tech-forward design, setting it apart from conventional washing machines. The gray metallic finish of our test unit further accentuates this impression. While opinions within our team are varied, the majority find its appearance stylish and modern. Some, with a more traditional sensibility, consider it specifically designed to appeal to tech enthusiasts interested in laundry solutions.
Functions
The Zeo One is equipped with a comprehensive suite of features. As previously mentioned, it integrates a dryer, offers app-based control, and incorporates automatic detergent and fabric softener dispensing based on load size and selected program. Furthermore, it dynamically adjusts water volume and drying duration according to the weight of the laundry. We will now examine its key functionalities in detail.
The appliance offers a total of 27 washing programs. Twelve are accessible via the control panel, including options such as Eco 40-60, Cotton, Synthetic, Quick, Anti-allergen, and Wool. An additional 15 programs are available through the companion app, featuring options like Mix, Refresh, Down, Silk, Baby Care, and Sanitization.
In terms of core washing performance, the machine performs admirably. It boasts a generous 11 kg load capacity, exceeding that of many competing models. The extensive selection of programs ensures compatibility with a diverse range of fabrics and washing requirements. The “Laundry Aftercare” function is a particularly useful addition, activating air circulation to mitigate unpleasant odors and moisture buildup if laundry remains in the drum after the cycle concludes. This feature proves beneficial when immediate removal of laundry is not feasible.
As mentioned, the Roborock Zeo One incorporates automatic dispensing for detergent and fabric softener. However, its implementation exhibits a limitation specific to the Swedish market. In Sweden, the common practice involves using two distinct detergents: a bleach-containing formulation for whites and a bleach-free option for colored garments. The Zeo One, however, provides only a single compartment for detergent. Consequently, users must either select a universal detergent suitable for all laundry types (requiring liquid detergent for compatibility with the automatic dispensing system) or disable auto-dosing when washing whites and manually add detergent directly to the drum.
Competing manufacturers, such as Miele and Bosch, offer more sophisticated solutions in some of their models with automatic dispensing systems. These include multiple detergent compartments or a dedicated compartment for manual dosing, obviating the need to introduce detergent directly into the drum, which can lead to issues if using a pre-wash program where the detergent could be rinsed away prematurely.
Despite the limitation regarding detergent compartments, the automatic dispensing system performs reliably for both detergent and fabric softener. Refills are only required approximately once per month, offering a significant convenience by eliminating the need for manual measuring and pouring.
The Roborock Zeo One integrates a dryer with a capacity of 6 kg, aligning with the specifications of many standalone dryers. This presents a potential constraint, as the washing function accommodates loads up to 11 kg. Therefore, users intending to wash and dry consecutively must limit the load size to the dryer’s capacity.
The dryer utilizes Roborock’s “Zeo-cycle® Drying Technology,” a method employing the natural mineral zeolite to extract moisture from clothing. This approach circulates air in dual streams through the zeolite, which absorbs moisture without relying on the high heat associated with conventional dryers. The primary benefit of this technology is gentler drying at lower temperatures, mitigating the risk of damage to delicate fabrics. Furthermore, the Zeo One’s drying process is enhanced by an AI algorithm and real-time monitoring via NTC smart sensors, further preventing over-drying and potential damage.
While the Zeo-cycle® Drying Technology performs effectively, we observed slightly longer drying times compared to traditional dryers for equivalent loads. However, the integrated design eliminates the need to transfer laundry between separate machines, streamlining the process and potentially offsetting the extended drying duration.
The Zeo One is controlled via the same app used for other Roborock products. The app features a clean and intuitive interface, although it currently lacks Swedish language support. It provides access to a wider range of programs than those directly available on the control panel. For frequently used programs, users can assign them to the “App program” button on the control panel for quick access without navigating the app.
The app also enables scheduled operation, allowing users to load the machine and initiate cycles during off-peak hours, potentially reducing energy costs. Furthermore, users can customize program parameters, including detergent and fabric softener dosage, washing temperature, rinse cycles, and dryness level.
The app provides real-time monitoring of the remaining cycle time and delivers notifications upon completion of washing or drying programs.
Conclusion
We have evaluated the Roborock Zeo One over several weeks, using it to wash a variety of items, ranging from everyday laundry to delicate wool garments. Across all tests, the machine has consistently delivered excellent results. We found several aspects particularly appealing: the generous washing capacity, the intuitive app control, the convenience of the integrated dryer, and the machine’s overall design and ease of use. Areas for potential improvement include the implementation of separate automatic dispensing for different detergent types, the relatively high purchase price of SEK 17,990, and the disparity between the washing and drying capacity limits.
Despite these minor drawbacks, we remain highly satisfied with the Roborock Zeo One. For consumers seeking a truly modern washing machine with a capable built-in dryer, it represents a compelling option.
Roborock provided a review unit for this evaluation. Provision of review materials does not influence our editorial independence. Our reviews are conducted independently, with a focus on providing unbiased assessments for our readers and consumers.
