The HOBOT-298 is widely considered the "legend" that put robotic window cleaning on the map. It’s a sturdy, reliable workhorse that has saved thousands of homeowners from the precarious ladder-and-squeegee dance.

But as we move through 2026, the smart home landscape has evolved. The HOBOT-2S isn’t just a minor refresh; it’s a complete re-engineering of the square robot category. If you’re currently using a 298 or deciding between the two at hobot.us, here is exactly why the 2S might be the upgrade your glass has been waiting for.

1. Dual Spray vs. Single Spray: Efficiency Redefined

The biggest "under the hood" change is the transition from a single spray nozzle to the Dual Ultrasonic Spray system.

• The HOBOT-298 features a single nozzle that sprays in the direction of travel.

• The HOBOT-2S features two nozzles—one on each side.

Why it matters: As the 2S moves left, right, or down, it pre-treats the glass in both directions. This eliminates "dry wipes," where the robot moves over a spot it hasn't misted yet. The result? A deeper clean in fewer passes and significantly less chance of those annoying "ghost streaks."

2. Edge-Leakage Sensors: The Frameless Frontier

While the 298 uses laser sensors to detect edges, the 2S introduces Edge-Leakage Sensors.

• The 298 is excellent for standard frames and can handle frameless glass, but it occasionally struggles with very thin seals or slight gaps.

• The 2S can detect the slightest change in air pressure. This means it can navigate frameless mirrors, glass railings, and modern windows with surgical precision. It knows exactly when to turn back before it loses suction, making it the safest choice for high-end architectural glass.

3. Corner Coverage: Shrinking the Gap

Square robots were designed to solve the "round robot corner problem," but the 2S takes it a step further. The cleaning cloth on the HOBOT-2S has been redesigned to extend further into the corners than the 298. While no robot can reach a microscopic 90-degree point (due to sensor housing), the 2S leaves the smallest uncleaned margin in the industry.

4. Personalization & "Creative Voice"

In 2026, we expect our tech to have personality. The HOBOT-2S features Creative Voice, allowing you to replace the standard robotic prompts with your own voice or custom alerts.

"Hey! Your windows are sparkling, go grab a coffee!"

Beyond the fun factor, the 2S also supports OTA (Over-the-Air) Firmware Updates. While the 298's tech is "frozen" at the time of manufacture, the 2S gets smarter via the app, receiving performance tweaks and new cleaning patterns long after you've unboxed it.

Comparison Table: At a Glance

 

The Verdict: Should You Upgrade?

• Keep the 298 if: You have traditional framed windows, a smaller budget, and are happy with the "workhorse" performance. It’s still one of the best robots on the market.

• Upgrade to the 2S if: You have frameless glass, modern railings, or large floor-to-ceiling windows that require maximum efficiency. The dual-spray system and OTA updates make it a future-proof investment for the modern smart home.

Ready to see the difference for yourself? Check out the latest HOBOT-2S deals at hobot.us.