Launched in early 2025, the Dreame X50 Ultra Complete Robot Vacuum brought an exciting new feature to the market – it's retractable legs! There's lots more smart technology too, but these do come with a steeper price tag.
Score: 79/100
This one had us at retractable legs. A robot vacuum and mop that can clamber over obstacles really is a game-changer. Little steps though – this one can only manage obstacles up to 6cm, so think carpet strips rather than stairs. That said, the functionality worked well in our lab tests with the robot recognising barriers and using its retractable legs to move over them.
As for its cleaning, it's great on larger debris like Rice Krispies and can give a large room a good clean, but it fell down on finer dust and debris on carpet, so it's probably best for keeping on top of mess, rather than as your sole cleaner. It also took a few passes to get all the pet hair, but it was particularly good at reaching into crevices and corners on hard flooring, thanks to its side brush. It also mopped well with minimal smearing.
As for the tech, our tester loved the retractable legs and found the app clearly laid out and easy to follow – all the info you need is there, from battery life to dock controls. We also liked that it has built-in LED lights so it can keep working when the house is dark, finding its way and dealing with the mess. Plus, there's a 'do not disturb' mode for quieter cleaning.
Megan is the Good Housekeeping Institute’s senior homes and lifestyle writer. She loves diving into the latest product releases to find the very best buys on the market and has written hundreds of product reviews on everything from the best vacuum cleaners and coffee machines to the best ice cream makers and robot window cleaners.
When she’s not writing about the newest gadgets and gizmos for your home and garden, you’ll find her running every distance from 5km to 100km or relaxing at home with her cat – there really is no in between.
Megan has an MA in Magazine Journalism and has previously written for Stylist, Glamour, Women's Health, TimeOut, SquareMeal, and YOU magazine. You can find Megan on Instagram @meganlouisegeall.














