The Verge reviews five robot lawnmowers, identifying the Segway Navimow X430 as the top performer
A comprehensive test of five models on a challenging South Carolina property reveals that while technology has advanced, the Segway Navimow X430 remains the standout choice for difficult landscapes, with the Dreame A3 AWD Pro recommended for poor GPS coverage.
The Verge has published a detailed review of five autonomous robot lawnmowers, testing their capabilities on a challenging, tree-filled property in South Carolina. The assessment highlights significant advancements in navigation and terrain handling, particularly through the adoption of network RTK (NetRTK) and improved all-wheel-drive systems. However, the review concludes that these machines are not yet fully autonomous 'set-it-and-forget-it' solutions and still require human oversight to prevent damage to lawns or neighbouring properties.
The Segway Navimow X430, priced at $2,499, was rated the best overall mower. Praised for its four-wheel-drive capabilities, impressive suspension, and ability to navigate difficult terrain without getting stuck, it utilised a combination of RTK, vSLAM, and vision-based navigation. It was the only model tested that did not get stuck once and could traverse the entire property, including the transition between front and back yards, in a single trip.
For users who cannot rely on RTK due to poor GPS coverage, the Dreame A3 AWD Pro ($3,099.99) was recommended. Utilising Lidar and AI vision, it performed nearly as well as the Segway but experienced some reliability issues, with Lidar occasionally declaring jobs complete prematurely. The review noted that Lidar-based robots are best suited for fenced-in yards, as they can more easily become disoriented and wander off compared to RTK models.
Other models tested included the Husqvarna Automower 420 IQ ($3,299), suggested for standard, tree-free yards due to its four-year warranty and free-for-life cellular connectivity; the Mammotion Luba 3 AWD 3000 ($2,799), which combines RTK, Lidar, and vision navigation but suffered from lawn damage in wet conditions due to lower ground clearance; and the Roborock RockNeo Q110H ($1,299), the budget pick suitable for flat, treed front lawns but lacking all-wheel-drive.
Key technological upgrades in this year’s models include NetRTK navigation, which uses cloud-connected reference stations to reduce the need for physical antennas, and improved all-wheel-drive systems. The review also notes that these devices fall under the new FCC robot ban, meaning existing models can continue to be sold, but the future of new models is uncertain.
