Aesthetics & Feel: 61/100

The Litter Robot 4 is designed with modern living spaces in mind. Its simple geometry and limited color options (black and white) minimize aesthetic harm. While the Litter Robot 4 clearly emphasizes functionality over aesthetics, it does make for a great conversation piece.

Build Quality: 77/100

It’s evident a lot of thought and planning went into the design and build of the Litter Robot 4. It’s simple to set up, easy (enough) to move, and (bottom) heavy enough to convince yourself that it won’t tip over.

One of the standout features of the Litter Robot 4 is its rotational sifting mechanism. Unlike other automated litter solutions that rely on scraping or shoveling waste, the LR4’s design minimizes mess by using gravity to separate waste from litter. Waste is then deposited into a lined, internal receptacle. The LR4 loses points here because the internal lining of the robot, and the space between the rotating mechanism and waste receptacle is prone to collecting waste. Despite its price tag, the Litter Robot 4 does not clean and maintain itself.

Performance: 91/100

The Litter Robot 4 operates quietly (comparable to an ice maker) with a short cycle time. In terms of performance, I have come across no better option. The WiFi/App connection is a nice addition, as tracking your cat’s weight and bathroom frequency can be extremely valuable – especially if they have medical conditions. The main drawbacks I’ve experienced are the aforementioned waste build-up issue, and the fact that litter can kicked out pretty easily (buying a litter mat is essential). While the Litter Robot 4 isn’t a perfect solution – cleaning up after your cat(s) will never be mess free.

While I have never experienced this issue in the year+ I’ve owned the Litter Robot 4, some users report the robot’s rotating mechanism has stopped in the wrong position, turning the Litter Robot 4 into a $700 paper weight. Despite the drawbacks, the Whisker team seems responsive to feedback and proactive with customer service.

Value: 75/100

The LR4 is the best cat cleanup solution on the market – which is reflected in the price tag. It loses point here for being exorbitantly expensive, as well as an underwhelming warrant policy. When I first purchased the Litter Robot 4, I was (admittedly) hammered. The next morning, the worst hangover of my life got exponentially worse when I realized I spent $700 on a cat shit robot. While my wallet screamed bloody murder initially, not having to worry about the daily litter box clean is quickly paying dividends.

Overall: 76/100 – Recommend