Tineco reinforces its position as a world leader in the vacuum cleaner market with the Floor One S9 Artist, a high-end model that succeeds the S7 range with significant improvements in design, ergonomics, and cleaning performance. Launched at €499, the Tineco S9 Artist promises a completely redesigned cleaning experience thanks to its clean water tank repositioned on the brush to increase pressure on the floor, its Smooth Drive 360-degree assistance system with independent smart wheels, and its 85-degree hot air self-cleaning in just five minutes. Facing competitors like the Dreame H15 Pro and the Roborock F25 Ultra , Tineco is banking on a design inspired by the Northern Lights, a premium matte and metallic finish, and iLoop detection technology that automatically adjusts suction power and water flow according to the level of dirt detected on the floor.
On paper, the specifications boast a suction power of 22,000 pascals, a theoretical runtime of 50 minutes in automatic mode, one-liter clean water tank and a 750-milliliter dirty water tank, as well as the ability to lie completely flat with a height of only 12.85 centimeters to clean under low furniture. Between promising technological innovations and a sleek design, the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist clearly targets demanding users looking for a high-performance, quiet appliance capable of washing floors with maximum efficiency while remaining easy to use. We tested it; here is our honest opinion on this review of the Tineco S9 Artist.
Table of Contents
Design and ergonomics: a successful complete overhaul
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist marks a radical aesthetic departure from the brand's previous models. This steam cleaner and mop adopts a sleek, minimalist, and decidedly premium design that contrasts sharply with the more technical look of earlier generations. The casing boasts an elegant matte finish with metallic reflections inspired by the Northern Lights, creating color variations that shift depending on the viewing angle. While the materials used remain plastic, the quality of construction and meticulous assembly give it a robust and solid feel. This is a steam cleaner you wouldn't hesitate to leave on display in a living room.
The dimensions of the device have been designed to optimize maneuverability without sacrificing cleaning power. The Tineco S9 Artist is 111 centimeters tall when held in the hand and reaches 116 centimeters when placed on its charging base. The roller is 25 centimeters wide, while the body of the device is 26.5 centimeters wide. The charging base occupies a floor space of 30 centimeters wide by 31 centimeters deep, allowing it to be easily integrated into most storage spaces. One of the major improvements is its ability to lie flat on the floor to clean under low furniture. When the device is completely flat, its total height does not exceed 12.85 centimeters, and it even drops to 11 centimeters at the brush itself. For furniture with a height greater than 11 centimeters, the Tineco steam vacuum cleaner can reach a depth of up to 25 centimeters.
The overall balance of the device has been carefully considered. Weighing in at 5.4 kilograms when empty, the Tineco S9 Artist is on the heavier side for its class, but the weight distribution has been optimized to minimize any feeling of heaviness. The one-liter clean water tank has been repositioned directly onto the brush head instead of the handle, lowering the center of gravity and increasing ground pressure for improved scrubbing. Measurements show that the weight at the handle is only 1.2 kilograms, less than a 1.5-liter bottle of water. The device is so light and maneuverable that it can be guided with one hand, or even just one finger during demonstrations, thanks to the Smooth Drive motorized assistance system. The control buttons fall naturally under the thumb, making it easy to access the various functions without having to adjust your grip.
The clean water tank is filled vertically via a side opening, requiring a sufficiently high tap. This one-liter capacity was verified by filling the tank with a full bottle of water, confirming the manufacturer's specifications. The dirty water tank, located at the rear of the unit, has a capacity of 750 milliliters when upright. A practical detail worth noting: the dirty water tank is equipped with an easy-open blue handle that allows it to be removed without pulling too hard, preventing accidents and splashes. The solid/liquid waste separation system works effectively, with an integrated strainer that retains larger debris while the dirty water is collected at the bottom of the tank. A rubber pad has been positioned on the back of the handle to prevent damage to the floor when the unit is lying horizontally, although some testers would have preferred a small wheel to facilitate sliding under furniture.
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist stands out thanks to its sophisticated design and ergonomic approach, where every detail has been carefully considered to enhance everyday user comfort. The appliance successfully combines premium aesthetics with practical functionality, positioning itself as a stylish object that doesn't need to be hidden away, even in a living room.
Screen and user interface: modernity and readability
One of the most significant improvements to the Tineco S9 Artist is the repositioning of the control screen. While on previous models the display was located at the top of the device, it is now integrated directly into the handle. When holding the device in the cleaning position, the screen is naturally within the field of vision, directly under the eyes, without requiring you to look down. This visual proximity allows you to monitor the device's status, the selected mode, and the remaining battery level in real time.
The screen features a circular format with a color display that's easy to read even in bright sunlight. Despite its compact size, it offers excellent visibility with clear and concise information: the operating mode appears in the center with self-explanatory icons, while the battery level and alert messages are intuitively positioned. The interface system relies on two physical buttons on the top of the handle: the power button and the mode selection button. This simplicity prevents any confusion and allows you to switch between modes in a fraction of a second.
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist offers three main operating modes. The automatic mode, indicated by "Auto," is the default and most intelligent mode. It uses the iLoop sensor, which detects dirt on the floor in real time and automatically adjusts the suction power and water flow. On an 80-square-meter surface, the Tineco uses up to 40 percent less water than a device without intelligent regulation. This mode offers a theoretical runtime of 50 minutes, although real-world testing reveals slightly varying durations.
The suction mode is designed to collect water or other liquids from the floor, for example, in the event of an accidental spill. The device maximizes its suction power while reducing the water flow to a minimum level, known as "mist," allowing it to pump out liquids without adding more. The suction power can be adjusted via the mobile app between three different levels. The maximum mode delivers the maximum water flow to the floor and activates the highest suction power. This is particularly useful for tackling stubborn stains or heavily soiled areas. The power can be adjusted between two levels via the app, while the water volume remains locked at maximum.
In addition to the screen on the handle, the Tineco S9 Artist features a light strip positioned on the top of the device that changes color depending on the level of dirt detected. Blue when the floor is clean, it gradually turns orange and then red to indicate a high level of contamination. This strip proved particularly responsive during testing, changing color almost instantly when passing over dirty areas. This visual indicator helps the user understand when they can speed up and when they need to slow down or go over the same area again.
The Tineco S9 Artist also features a French voice synthesizer that verbally announces mode changes and operating phases. This female voice announces, for example, "Auto Mode," "Suction Mode," or "Max Mode" when switching modes, and signals the start and end of self-cleaning cycles. The volume is adjustable to three levels or can be completely muted. To change the language and volume settings, a discreet button on the back of the handle allows you to scroll through the available languages with a double click, while a long press activates Wi-Fi pairing mode to connect the device to the Tineco mobile app. This app offers advanced features such as fine-tuning the suction power, customizing the water flow, accessing cleaning history with detailed statistics, and the ability to specify the type of water used to optimize the iLoop sensor's performance.
Suction and washing performance: efficiency guaranteed
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist boasts a suction power of 22,000 pascals, placing it among the most powerful models in its class. This high suction power translates into an ability to effectively capture all types of debris: liquids, fine dust, crumbs, and pet hair. But beyond the raw figures, it's the balance between suction power and the roller design that makes all the difference in actual cleaning efficiency.
The roller features an edge-to-edge design that allows for cleaning very close to baseboards and walls. The brush bristles extend to within approximately 2 millimeters of the left edge and 5 millimeters of the right edge. Tests using black pepper and cocoa powder on baseboards demonstrated that the device cleans to within just 6 millimeters of the wall, a result almost identical to the Tineco S7 Stretch and significantly better than many competitors that leave between 7 and 9 millimeters. The roller is 25 centimeters wide and incorporates dual-rotation technology in both directions during self-cleaning. Eight water supply nozzles deliver clean water and detergent evenly across the entire width.
Just behind the roller, a dual-function scraper system ensures the recovery of dirty water and debris. The first, comb-shaped scraper captures hair, pet fur, and threads without them wrapping around the shaft. The second, flat, movable scraper maintains constant contact with the brush thanks to a spring and extracts the dirty water into the suction duct. This design allows for continuous washing with clean water: clean water reaches the roller, scrubs the floor, becomes dirty, and is then immediately vacuumed up before the cycle begins again.
During hair suction tests, the Tineco S9 Artist demonstrated remarkable efficiency. A clump of blonde hair was vacuumed up on the first try, without a single hair getting caught in the roller. Upon inspection, only one or two hairs were found behind the filter, while the majority were in the dry dirt container. This performance is due to the Dual Block anti-tangle system, which automatically cuts long hair before it can wrap around the brush—a significant relief for pet owners or households with people who have long hair.
The brush head has a generous interior height, allowing it to vacuum up large debris. In an intensive test involving chicory coffee, small pasta shells, thick blueberry coulis, a whole egg with its shell, and liquid, the Tineco S9 Artist proved its versatility. The eggshell was easily sucked up. A first pass at moderate speed collected most of the dirt. A second pass was enough to achieve a nearly clean area. The indicator light changed from blue to red during the initial passes, confirming dirt detection, and then returned to blue as the floor became clean again. Vacuuming liquids is no problem: the spilled liquid was completely collected in a single pass.
After these intensive tests, the brush cover remained virtually clean with very little debris trapped inside. The roller showed only a slight pinkish trace of blueberry syrup and was otherwise perfectly clean. The dirty water tank was inspected to verify the separation between air and liquid. The HEPA filter remained almost completely dry, with only a few small drops detected. A further test in a horizontal position confirmed that the filter remained dry, ensuring the protection of the motor and the longevity of the appliance.
The Tineco S9 Artist also excels at tackling tough stains. In a test with chocolate that had dried for 24 hours, including a thick stain and another right up against the wall, the device, in maximum mode, removed the thick stain in two to three passes. For the stain near the wall, several passes were necessary because the edges of the brush are slightly less wet than the center. The cleaning distance measured from the wall was 6 millimeters, confirming the edge-to-edge brush's performance. Tile grout is cleaned effectively, although an additional pass by hand might be needed for very deep grout lines.
Regarding the amount of water left on the floor, the Tineco S9 Artist leaves a thin film that dries quickly. Tests on parquet flooring showed a very fine mark, visible against the light, which dried in exactly 2 minutes and 54 seconds. This speed allows the floor to be walked on after just three minutes, a considerable advantage for households with children or pets. The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist thus proves to be extremely efficient in all tested situations, combining high suction power, even water distribution, effective debris collection, and rapid drying.
Battery life and consumption: everyday endurance
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist is equipped with a 4000 milliampere-hour battery that promises up to 50 minutes of use in automatic mode, allowing it to cover up to 90 square meters without recharging. Real-world tests conducted under standardized conditions with the device running continuously revealed a runtime of 42 minutes in automatic mode, slightly less than the advertised 50 minutes but still a very respectable performance. This difference is explained by the variations of the iLoop sensor, which constantly adjusts the power and water flow. In a real-world environment, battery life can vary between 35 and 45 minutes depending on the cleanliness of the home, with some users even reporting up to an hour of runtime with mixed use.
One particularly positive aspect is the balance between the battery and the tanks. The one-liter clean water tank is sufficient to last the entire battery life without needing to be refilled, and the 750-milliliter dirty water tank doesn't overflow during the 42 minutes of operation. This balance allows for a complete, uninterrupted cleaning session. For very large areas requiring more than an hour of intensive cleaning, you should expect to change the tanks approximately twice.
Regarding charging, the Tineco S9 Artist consumes approximately 30 watts while charging, with a full charge taking around 4 hours. Once charging is complete, consumption drops to just 1 watt in standby mode, which translates to roughly one euro per year in electricity costs if the device remains plugged in continuously. The Cell Push battery technology used promises a significantly longer lifespan than conventional lithium batteries, with a higher number of charge-discharge cycles. Compared to the previous S7 model, battery life remains within the same range, which is a slight drawback for a high-end device, although the 40 to 50 minutes of use is still more than sufficient for most households.
Smooth Drive System: the assistance that changes everything
One of the major innovations of the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist lies in its Smooth Drive 360-degree mobility assistance system. This system, already featured in some previous models, has been significantly improved on the S9 Artist with fully independent rear wheels that revolutionize the equipment's maneuverability. To understand the benefit of this technology, imagine the equivalent of power steering in a car: Smooth Drive detects the user's intended movement and mechanically assists the motion to reduce the physical effort required.
In practical terms, two motorized rubber wheels are positioned at the rear of the device with a special grip to prevent slipping. When the user pushes the device slightly forward, sensors detect this movement and activate the wheels' rotation in the direction of travel. The wheels then begin to rotate on their own, more than compensating for the device's weight of 5.4 kilograms. The user simply guides the device in the desired direction. The same principle applies in reverse: as soon as the device detects backward movement, the wheels activate in the opposite direction.
The real innovation of the Smooth Drive system on the S9 Artist lies in the complete independence of its two rear wheels. Unlike previous systems where the two wheels were synchronized, the S9 Artist's wheels operate autonomously, each capable of rotating at a different speed. This independence transforms the experience of turning and changing direction. When the user initiates a left turn, the right wheel accelerates slightly while the left wheel slows down, making it easier to rotate the scooter. This intelligent assistance virtually eliminates any physical effort required to maneuver the scooter, even in tight spaces or around table and chair legs.
Demonstrations during testing illustrate the effectiveness of this system: the device can be easily guided with one hand, and even with a single finger during extreme demonstrations. This ease of handling transforms the cleaning experience, particularly for the elderly, those with back or arm problems, or simply for cleaning large areas without fatigue. The perceived weight of the handle, already low at 1.2 kilograms, becomes virtually negligible thanks to the Smooth Drive assistance.
One particularly clever feature is the automatic return to an upright position after laying the appliance horizontally to clean under furniture. Simply press the power button while the appliance is lying down: it will then automatically move back a few centimeters and position itself in a stable upright position, without any manual intervention. This automatic function eliminates sudden movements and unnecessary effort.
The assistance level of the Smooth Drive wheels can be customized via the Tineco mobile app. Three settings are available for the normal upright position: gentle (minimum), general (medium), and max (maximum). A fourth, specific setting is dedicated to the horizontal, flat position, also with three levels: low, medium, and high. These settings allow you to adapt the device's behavior to personal preferences and different floor types. On a very glossy hardwood floor, maximum assistance might cause the device to slip slightly, in which case it is best to reduce the assistance. Conversely, on rough tile, maximum assistance will greatly facilitate movement.
During tests on glossy tiles, the device showed a very slight tendency to slip, but this observation remains minor and does not significantly affect the experience. On matte tiles, hardwood floors, or linoleum, the grip is perfect. The large rear rubber wheels also help reduce rolling noise, contributing to the overall quiet operation of the device. Compared to the assistance system of the Dreame H15 Pro, a direct competitor of the Tineco S9 Artist, the Smooth Drive is smoother and more intuitive. The Dreame also offers motorized wheels, but the assistance can sometimes be too directive in turns, requiring the user to take back control to correct the trajectory. The Tineco system offers a more natural and fluid experience that truly gives the impression of guiding the device rather than pushing it.
Self-cleaning and drying: guaranteed hygiene
Self-cleaning is an essential function on a vacuum cleaner, as it determines the level of manual maintenance required and the overall hygiene of the appliance. The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist incorporates a particularly efficient hot air self-cleaning system that stands out for its speed and effectiveness.
When the user has finished cleaning their floors, they simply place the device on its charging base and press the button at the top of the handle to start the cycle. The device offers only one self-cleaning mode, called automatic hot cleaning with integrated hot drying, which simplifies operation. Voice prompts announce the start of the process.
The cycle begins with a soaking phase for the brush roller. Clean water mixed with detergent is dispensed onto the roller from the nozzles in the base. The roller then rotates slowly in both directions, rubbing against the clean water to dislodge dirt embedded in the fibers. This dirty water is then vacuumed up and emptied into the dirty water tank. This cycle is repeated several times to ensure a thorough cleaning. The voice prompt then announces "Hose Cleaning," an important step that rinses the suction hose to prevent the buildup of residue and unpleasant odors.
The system's unique feature lies in its use of hot air throughout the entire process. From the start of the cycle, the base heats air that is then blown onto the roller through openings at the front of the hood. Measurements reveal an electrical consumption of 650 watts during the cycle, used to heat the air and power the suction motor. The external temperature of the brush hood reaches approximately 45 degrees Celsius during the cleaning phase. Once this phase is complete, hot air drying begins automatically. During drying, the roller continues to rotate in both directions to expose all the fibers to the hot airflow. The advertised temperature is 85 degrees Celsius, although measurements taken with an infrared thermometer and a thermal imaging camera revealed slightly lower temperatures, between 67 and 75 degrees Celsius, at the roller.
The complete self-cleaning and drying cycle takes exactly 5 minutes, a remarkably short time compared to many competitors. The Dreame H15 Pro requires over 3 minutes just for drying, not including the initial cleaning phase. This speed is a significant advantage for everyday use. At the end of the cycle, a voice prompt announces the completion, and an indicator light remains on the base to remind you to empty the dirty water tank.
The drying efficiency of the Tineco S9 Artist is probably its most impressive feature. After just 5 minutes of drying, the roller is completely dry, without the slightest trace of moisture. This performance was verified in all tests: the roller is pleasantly warm to the touch and completely dry. A paper towel test, performed by wrapping the roller in white paper towels, revealed no trace of moisture, confirming the complete drying process. This improvement over previous Tineco models, which often left a slight damp patch in the center of the roller, represents a major advancement that definitively eliminates the risk of unpleasant odors and bacterial growth.
Inspection of the roller after self-cleaning reveals impeccable cleanliness. The pinkish traces of blueberry syrup visible after the grime test have completely disappeared. The roller displays a uniform, clean color along its entire length, without any visible residue. The HEPA filter located in the dirty water tank also benefits from hot air drying, with warm air passing through the suction duct and over the filter before exiting.
Compared to the Dreame H15 Pro's self-cleaning system, the Tineco S9 Artist is significantly faster and slightly quieter. The Dreame generates a higher noise level, reaching 76 to 77 decibels compared to approximately 73 decibels for the Tineco. However, one drawback remains regarding the water heating system. The water used to clean the roller is heated only by the flow of hot air, and not by a dedicated heating element that would heat the water directly upon contact with the roller. This indirect heating method slightly limits its effectiveness on particularly stubborn or greasy dirt, even though the current system already works very well in the vast majority of situations.
Mobile app and connectivity: advanced features
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist can be connected to the free Tineco mobile app, available on iOS and Android, to access advanced customization, tracking, and maintenance features. Connecting is simple: just press and hold the button on the back of the stick until the Wi-Fi icon flashes on the grip's screen, then follow the instructions in the app to complete the pairing.
The app's interface is relatively clear and intuitive, although some French translations are occasionally lacking, with some terms being poorly translated. The home screen displays the battery charge level in real time as a percentage, as well as the device's current status: in use, charging, self-cleaning, or off. The top of the screen shows the current day's statistics, including cumulative usage time, although these statistics sometimes seem slightly inaccurate.
For more detailed statistics, users can click on the "Healthy Cleaning" tab (a rough translation of which refers to the cleaning history). This section provides a complete history of all sessions, including the duration of use, the amount of dirt detected and collected, the condition of the roller after the session, and other metrics. This data can be viewed daily, weekly, or monthly, allowing users to track the cleanliness of their home.
An important setting accessible from the homepage concerns the detergent solution used. The user must indicate whether they are using pure water without detergent or water mixed with the Tineco detergent solution. This information allows the iLoop sensor to function more effectively by taking into account the slightly different transparency of water with detergent. The app also allows users to adjust the speed and power of the Smooth Drive system. For the normal upright position, three levels are available: delicate (minimum), general (medium), and max (maximum). A separate section is dedicated to the horizontal, flat position, also with three levels of assistance: low, medium, and high.
The advanced settings menu, accessible via the gear icon in the upper right corner, offers several additional options: renaming the device, accessing the user manual, checking for and downloading firmware updates, and downloading decorative animations to personalize the interface. However, these animations remain rather gimmicky and offer no real functional value.
The app's most interesting feature is found in the mode settings menu, accessible via the four small squares to the right of the battery level indicator. This section allows for detailed customization of each operating mode. In automatic mode, no settings are available, as everything is managed by the iLoop sensor. In vacuum mode, the user can adjust the suction power between three different levels (low, medium, high) and choose between wet and mist water flow. For liquids, it is recommended to select the minimum mist flow. Maximum mode offers the option to adjust the suction power between two levels: medium and maximum. The water volume remains locked at maximum to ensure intensive cleaning of stubborn stains.
One drawback is the lack of a fourth, fully customizable mode that would allow users to freely adjust both suction power and water flow. Some competing vacuum cleaners offer this type of personalized mode, providing maximum flexibility. The app also offers a few secondary features such as video tutorials on use and maintenance, cleaning tips for different types of dirt, and access to Tineco customer service.
Overall, the Tineco app fulfills its role adequately by offering convenient access to advanced settings and usage statistics, even if it doesn't revolutionize the user experience. Most essential functions remain accessible directly on the device via the physical buttons and screen, making the app optional for standard daily use.
Accessories and maintenance: the essentials provided
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist comes with a set of accessories covering essential maintenance and upkeep needs. The box contains the vacuum cleaner itself, its charging and self-cleaning base, a 500ml bottle of Tineco detergent solution, a spare HEPA filter (the second one is already installed in the tank), a spare roller, and a cleaning brush to keep the suction hose and dirty water tank clean. A multilingual instruction manual, including French, completes the package.
Replacing the roller is relatively simple, although it does require understanding the fastening mechanism. The roller is held in place by a retaining clip that inserts into the center of the brush. The correct technique is to pull on the center of the retaining clip, either with your fingers or by placing your hand so that your fingers are behind the tab and your thumb is in front, then pushing with your thumb. Once the clip is removed, simply insert it onto the new roller, aligning the flat part of the retaining clip with the flat part in the center of the brush, and then push firmly to lock it into place. This procedure becomes intuitive with practice.
The included detergent solution has a pleasant fragrance and enhances cleaning efficiency thanks to its surfactants, which help loosen dirt. Just one capful added to the one-liter water tank is enough to freshen your entire home while cleaning. This solution is specially formulated to avoid excessive foaming, which could interfere with the iLoop sensor or damage the suction motor. It is strongly recommended to use only the official Tineco solution or detergents specifically designed for wet/dry vacuums.
The replacement HEPA filter ensures continuous filtration of the intake air and protects the motor from fine particles and moisture. It is recommended to replace it as soon as it shows signs of wear. Replacing it every three to six months is generally good practice. The included cleaning brush is used to manually maintain the suction duct and dirty water tank should any residue accumulate. Using the brush once a week, or after particularly dirty cleaning, will keep the system in perfect working order.
One regrettable point is the lack of a dedicated storage compartment for spare parts. On other models, an integrated compartment in the base allowed for neat storage of the spare roller, filter, and cleaning brush. This cost-cutting measure on a high-end appliance priced at €499 is a surprising and unfortunate choice, as it degrades the user experience for no apparent reason.
Another notable absence is the headlight LEDs on the front of the device. Many competing vacuum cleaners, and even some previous Tineco models, incorporated powerful white LEDs that illuminated the floor in front of the brush, making it easier to see dirt in dark areas under furniture or at night. The lack of this feature on the S9 Artist means cleaning blindly in certain conditions, which is a step backward compared to previous generations. Several users have expressed their disappointment at this omission.
Regarding routine maintenance, the Tineco S9 Artist requires very little manual intervention thanks to its efficient self-cleaning system. The recommended maintenance routine is simple: empty the dirty water tank after each use, fill the clean water tank before each session, and run the self-cleaning cycle after each cleaning session. The roller itself demonstrates excellent resistance to wear and stains. Even after cleaning particularly colored and sticky blueberry syrup, the roller emerged completely white after self-cleaning. It's reasonable to expect that a well-maintained roller will last several months, or even a year or more, depending on the frequency of use.
Noise level: appreciably discreet
The noise level of a vacuum cleaner is an often underestimated factor that greatly influences everyday user comfort, particularly in apartments or during evening cleaning. The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist stands out in this regard with its exceptionally quiet operation compared to many competitors and even some previous models from the brand.
In automatic mode, the average noise level of the Tineco S9 Artist is around 73 decibels, a figure measured under normal usage conditions on tile and hardwood floors. This level remains significantly lower than the noise generated by many conventional canister vacuums or cordless stick vacuums, which easily exceed 80 decibels. In practical terms, the noise produced is similar to that of a normal conversation, allowing you to clean without unduly disturbing other occupants of the home.
The reduction in noise level compared to the S7 Ultra model tested just before is particularly noticeable. The S9 Artist's suction motor emits a deeper, more muffled sound, less high-pitched and less harsh on the ears. This acoustic difference significantly contributes to user comfort, making cleaning sessions less tiring for the ears. The Smooth Drive rubber wheels also contribute to the overall quietness of the appliance. Unlike hard plastic wheels that can clatter on tile floors, the large rubber wheels roll silently without generating any perceptible rolling noise.
The noise level remains relatively stable in automatic mode, with slight variations when the iLoop sensor detects dirtier areas. In maximum mode, the noise level logically increases by a few decibels, likely reaching around 75 to 76 decibels, but this increase remains moderate and acceptable for occasional use. During the self-cleaning cycle, the noise level remains around 73 decibels, a level equivalent to normal operation. This noise remains perfectly tolerable for the five minutes the cycle lasts.
Compared to the Dreame H15 Pro, the Tineco S9 Artist's main competitor, the noise level is significantly higher for the Tineco. The Dreame easily reaches 76 or even 77 decibels during normal operation, and its self-cleaning cycle is even louder. This difference of 3 to 4 decibels may seem minimal on paper, but it is clearly perceptible to the ear and makes the Tineco a more pleasant choice for noise-sensitive individuals. The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist therefore offers a well-controlled noise level that contributes to overall user comfort and positions it favorably against its direct competitors.
Price and value for money: premium positioning
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist is priced at €499, a price that clearly positions it in the premium segment of vacuum cleaners. This price puts the appliance in direct competition with high-end models such as the Dreame H15 Pro, the Roborock F25 Ultra, and certain models from Bissell and Shark.
Compared to the Tineco S7 Stretch Ultra, available at a significantly lower price (generally around €350 to €400 depending on promotions), the S9 Artist offers several notable improvements: a more elegant and streamlined design, a screen repositioned on the handle for better readability, an improved Smooth Drive system with fully independent wheels, complete roller drying in five minutes (compared to partial drying on the S7), and a reduced noise level. Do these improvements justify a price difference of around €100 to €150? The answer will depend on each user's priorities. For those simply looking for an efficient vacuum cleaner and mop, the S7 Stretch Ultra represents an excellent alternative that performs just as well in terms of pure cleaning.
Compared to the Dreame H15 Pro, sold at a similar or even slightly higher price depending on promotional periods, the Tineco S9 Artist offers several competitive advantages: better ergonomics with more balanced weight distribution, smoother and more intuitive Smooth Drive assistance when turning, faster self-cleaning (five minutes versus more than eight minutes for the Dreame), lower noise level, and a slightly more responsive iLoop sensor. The Dreame counters with its triple-edge system with robotic arms for cleaning corners, its more compact base, and its larger touchscreen. Ultimately, the two devices are generally comparable in terms of cleaning performance.
The price of €499 includes the complete device with its charging and self-cleaning base, a replacement roller, a replacement filter, a 500ml bottle of detergent solution, and a cleaning brush. Additional Tineco accessories are available separately: extra rollers for €30-40, HEPA filters for around €15-20, and one-liter bottles of detergent solution for €15-20. These prices remain reasonable and comparable to those of competitors.
Tineco regularly offers promotions and discount codes, especially during sales events like Prime Day, Black Friday, and other sales periods. During these times, the S9 Artist is often priced between €399 and €449, significantly improving its value for money. The Tineco manufacturer's warranty covers the device for two years, a standard duration that meets European legal requirements.
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist is clearly aimed at a discerning clientele looking for a high-performance, well-designed, easy-to-use appliance that is also aesthetically pleasing enough to be displayed in living areas. For homes with large areas of hard flooring (over 50 square meters of tile, parquet, or linoleum), the investment is fully justified by the time saved and ease of use. For smaller spaces (studios, one-bedroom apartments under 40 square meters) or tighter budgets, less expensive alternatives exist: the Tineco S7 or even the Tineco iFloor 3 (available for around €200 to €250) offer decent performance without all the premium features.
In conclusion, the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist's price of €499 positions it as a premium product, justified by its build quality, cleaning performance, and overall ease of use. The value for money is generally positive, especially during promotional periods, although the lack of front LEDs or accessory storage is a drawback for a device of this caliber.
✔ Exceptional suction power of 22,000 pascals which eliminates all dirt in one or two passes.
✔ Antimicrobial steam function at 140°C, completely cordless , a major innovation for deep floor disinfection.
✔ Truly elegant premium design with LED lighting inspired by the Northern Lights.
✔ Ultra-fast Flash Dry self-cleaning system in just 5 minutes with hose cleaning, unique on the market.
✔ Edge-to-edge design allows for cleaning of baseboards and furniture legs down to the millimeter.
✔ Perfectly effective anti-tangle system , no hair wraps around the brush.
✔ Smooth Drive technology makes movement smooth and effortless in push mode.
✔ Folds 180° for easy cleaning under low furniture (height reduced to only 12 cm).
✔ Charging base less bulky than the competition (6-7 cm less deep versus Dreame).
✔ Modern touchscreen and intuitive interface with clear and precise voice feedback.
✔ Dirty water tank with ingenious anti-splash system and filter for solid particles.
✔ Actual battery life of 48 minutes, very close to the advertised 50 minutes in standard mode.
✖ High price of 599 euros which clearly positions it in the high-end market.
✖ Limited autonomy of only 30 minutes in steam mode , just enough for a large home.
✖ Noticeable imbalance in pull-back mode , the assistance is not as effective as when pushing.
✖ It is impossible to start the self-cleaning if the battery is too low , frustratingly requiring you to wait for it to recharge.
✖ Significant head height of almost 10 cm limiting passage under some very low furniture.
✖ Significant weight of 7 kg although largely compensated by motor assistance.
✖ Some dirt may escape from the brush after cleaning mixtures of soil + sugary liquid.
✖ Significant vertical footprint for storage with the charging base.
✖ Use strictly prohibited on carpets due to the high-temperature steam function.
✖ Requires an accessible electrical outlet for the charging station.
What is the main difference between the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist and other vacuum cleaners/washers?
The antimicrobial steam function at 140°C is completely cordless. This is the major innovation of the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist. Traditional steam cleaners require an electrical connection. The S9 Artist is battery-powered. It generates disinfecting steam without the constraint of a cable. This technology eliminates 99.9% of bacteria, according to Tineco. No chemicals are needed.
What is the actual battery life of the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist?
Our tests measured 48 minutes in standard automatic mode. This is very close to the advertised 50 minutes. In continuous steam mode, the battery life drops to 30 minutes.
Can the Tineco S9 Artist clean all types of floors?
No. Tineco Floor One S9 Artist is designed exclusively for hard floors. Tiles, varnished parquet, linoleum, vinyl, and stone are compatible. It should never be used on carpets or rugs.
How long does the self-cleaning cycle take?
The Flash Dry cycle lasts exactly 5 minutes. That's remarkably fast. Competing models require 20-30 minutes. The system uses hot air at 185°C.
Does the anti-tangle system really work?
Yes, our tests confirm it. We dispersed a significant amount of clipped hair. After several passes, we inspected the brush. Result: no hair wrapped around the roller.
Can cleaning products be used with the steam mode?
No, Tineco strongly advises against it. Adding cleaning products in steam mode is problematic. Vaporizing detergent into the air is harmful.
Is the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist suitable for homes with pets?
Absolutely. It's even a recommended use. The steam function disinfects thoroughly. Ideal for eliminating bacteria from pet paws. The anti-tangle system handles pet hair perfectly.
Final verdict: an almost complete success
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist is undeniably a remarkable technical and ergonomic achievement that reinforces Tineco's position as a world leader in vacuum cleaners and washers. The appliance excels in many fundamental aspects that truly matter in everyday life, offering a smooth, efficient, and comfortable cleaning experience that transforms a household chore into a relatively pleasant task.
The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist boasts numerous and significant strengths. Its sleek design, inspired by the Northern Lights and featuring a metallic matte finish, exudes true elegance, allowing it to be proudly displayed in living areas. Particular attention has been paid to overall ergonomics, with the handle weighing only 1.2 kilograms thanks to the repositioning of the water tank on the brush head, making the appliance surprisingly lightweight. The Smooth Drive 360-degree system, with its independent motorized wheels, is a key differentiator, providing smooth and intuitive assistance that greatly facilitates movement and maneuvering. Cleaning performance is excellent, with a suction power of 22,000 pascals, an edge-to-edge brush that cleans up to 6 millimeters from walls, and a responsive iLoop sensor. The Dual Block anti-tangle roller automatically cuts hair and pet fur, a considerable relief for pet owners.
The hot air self-cleaning system, which dries in just five minutes, is probably the most impressive feature. The complete and total drying of the roller, without the slightest trace of moisture, definitively eliminates the risk of unpleasant odors and bacterial growth. The controlled noise level of around 73 decibels, lower than many competitors, contributes to overall user comfort. The repositioned screen on the handle offers excellent readability, and the light strip allows you to visually monitor the dirt level. The 40- to 50-minute runtime, combined with well-sized tanks, allows you to clean up to 90 square meters in a single session.
However, the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist does have a few weaknesses. The lack of front LEDs to illuminate the floor in front of the brush is a regrettable step backward compared to previous generations. This feature greatly facilitated dirt detection in dark areas, and its absence forces users to clean blindly in certain conditions. The lack of a storage compartment for spare accessories is another drawback for a device of this caliber. The rubber pad on the back of the handle would have been better replaced by a small wheel, making it easier to maneuver under furniture. The water heating system for self-cleaning, which relies solely on hot airflow rather than a direct heating element, slightly limits its effectiveness on particularly stubborn dirt. The battery life, while respectable, remains within the same range as the previous S7 model. The mobile app lacks a fourth, fully customizable mode.
Despite these few areas for improvement, the overall assessment remains very positive. The device offers excellent performance, exceptional ease of use thanks to the Smooth Drive system, impeccable hygiene with its complete roller drying, and an elegant design. The Tineco S9 Artist deserves a score of 8.5 out of 10, penalized mainly by the lack of front LEDs and a storage stand.
Who is this vacuum cleaner for? The Tineco Floor One S9 Artist is designed for discerning users looking for a high-performance, ergonomic, and stylish vacuum cleaner. It is particularly well-suited to homes with large hard floor areas (50 square meters or more), pet owners who will appreciate the tangle-free system, people with back or arm problems who will benefit from the Smooth Drive assistance, and noise-sensitive users. It is less suitable for small areas, tight budgets, or users who clean infrequently.
In what context is it used? The Tineco S9 Artist excels in daily or weekly cleaning of large hard floor areas, in homes with children or pets, in open spaces where aesthetics are important, and in any context where ease of use and speed are valued. It is less suitable for mixed surfaces with a lot of carpeting or thick rugs.
Is the price-to-performance ratio justified? At €499, the price-to-performance ratio is generally positive considering the build quality, performance, and ease of use. This price is justified for users who value ergonomics, design, and innovation. During promotional periods when the price drops to between €399 and €449, the price-to-performance ratio becomes excellent. For tighter budgets, the Tineco S7 Stretch Ultra, at €100 to €150 less, is an excellent alternative.
Credible alternatives
Tineco S7 Stretch Ultra (around €350-400) : For those seeking equivalent cleaning performance without the latest model, the S7 Stretch Ultra is an excellent alternative. It offers nearly identical washing performance with an edge-to-edge brush, an iLoop sensor, and Smooth Drive assistance. Its main advantages are a lower price and the inclusion of front LEDs. Its disadvantages include a less sleek design, a less well-positioned screen, and less thorough roller drying.
Dreame H15 Pro (approximately €499-€549) : The Dreame H15 Pro, its main direct competitor, offers 21,000 pascals of suction power, a triple-edge cleaning system with robotic arms for corner cleaning, and a more compact base. Its strengths include a larger touchscreen and 180-degree folding capability. Its weaknesses are less well-balanced ergonomics, sometimes overly directional motor assistance, a less responsive sensor, a higher noise level (76-77 decibels), and a longer self-cleaning cycle (over 8 minutes).
Roborock F25 Ultra (approximately €450-500) : The Roborock F25 Ultra offers similar performance with a slightly different approach. It boasts excellent cleaning capabilities, comparable battery life, and an efficient self-cleaning system. Its more industrial design will appeal to those seeking a less "stylish" and more functional look.
In conclusion, the Tineco Floor One S9 Artist stands out as a benchmark in its category, offering a remarkable balance between performance, ease of use, and aesthetics. Its few weaknesses do not detract from its overall relevance, and its premium positioning is justified for discerning users. For others, less expensive but equally effective alternatives exist, notably the S7 Stretch Ultra, which represents an excellent price-performance compromise.
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