Roborock showcased its innovative Saros Rover robot vacuum at CES 2026, featuring wheel-equipped legs that enable it to climb stairs and clean them in the process. The prototype impressed with its balance, obstacle avoidance, and even a dance demo. While pricing and release details remain undisclosed, the device promises to revolutionize home cleaning for multi-level spaces.
At CES 2026 in Las Vegas, Roborock unveiled the Saros Rover, a robot vacuum distinguished by its real legs—reminiscent of chicken or frog limbs—with wheels at the bottom. Unlike previous stair-climbing attempts, such as the Dreame X50 Ultra or Eufy Marswalker, which use treads or shells but cannot clean stairs, the Saros Rover deploys its legs to lift its body up steps while vacuuming each one.
In a hands-on demo, the Rover took 30 to 40 seconds to ascend five large steps, using one leg for balance on the lower step before rolling across the upper one to clean it. Roborock claims it handles traditional and curved staircases, carpeted steps with bullnose fronts, and multi-level thresholds. The device also navigates inclines, makes sudden stops and turns, and even hops for added maneuverability, comparable to human mobility.
Beyond climbing, the Saros Rover demonstrated impressive balance, descending a steep ramp with control and reversing midway—a feat unseen in other robot vacuums. It performed a synchronized dance with Saros Z70 models, waving in rhythm. Software powered by AI algorithms, motion sensors, and 3D spatial mapping enables object avoidance, including fast-moving items like pets or children, as shown in a video where engineers threw tennis balls at it.
Though an early prototype showed minor balance issues, Roborock staff noted few hiccups overall. The company assured market availability but withheld pricing; given the Saros Z70's $2,599 launch price (now around $2,000 on sale), the Rover may cost similarly or more. This innovation addresses key challenges in robot vacuum navigation, potentially setting a new standard for homes with stairs.
