WIRED reviewer rated the Petkit Purobot Ultra 8/10, praising its AI facial recognition and video monitoring capabilities. The device uses a rotating camera to record cats using the box and tracks usage via app. However, the video quality is described as poor and the AI's accuracy decreases after the 30-day free trial. The reviewer noted that while the box is effective for monitoring cat health through stool analysis, the video feed is difficult to observe due to low resolution. It's best suited for cat owners who want smart monitoring features but may not be ideal for those seeking high-quality video footage.
Full review
AI facial recognition accuracy
Petkit's Purobot Ultra boasts multi-cat facial recognition as a core feature, but real-world testing reveals significant limitations. WIRED's Molly Higgins noted that the AI correctly identified cats about 75 percent of the time during the free trial period, but once the premium subscription expired, automatic identification failed entirely despite the cats having distinctly different appearances. The 12-pound calico and 20-pound tabby in her household were indistinguishable to the system after the trial ended. Cats.com reviewer Katelynn Sobus echoed these concerns, stating that the facial recognition technology is in beta testing and not accurately represented in marketing materials. She found that the system's accuracy was inconsistent, particularly with cats of similar weights and appearances. The device's inability to reliably distinguish between pets becomes problematic in multi-cat households where owners want to track individual usage patterns.
Reddit user feedback from the Petkit Purobot Ultra Support Group corroborates these findings, with one user specifically mentioning that the bottom side of the device is problematic for facial recognition, suggesting that the camera positioning or lighting may not adequately capture cats' faces. Additionally, a Sam's Club reviewer noted that with two cats—one long-haired and dark-colored, the other short-haired and light-colored—the box had trouble telling them apart. This issue was particularly frustrating for the reviewer who felt the device was overpriced for the functionality delivered. The inconsistent performance of the facial recognition system undermines one of the primary selling points of the Purobot Ultra, making it less appealing for households with multiple cats of similar appearance or weight.
Stool health monitoring limitations
The Purobot Ultra markets itself as a device that can monitor cat health through stool analysis, but this feature falls short of expectations. According to WIRED's Molly Higgins, the video quality of the footage is poor, always in black-and-white, and difficult to observe, with one reviewer noting that the footage appeared as 'a small gray image of a tiny cat turd.' The system does not actually perform AI analysis of the stool itself but rather provides a chart for comparing images of various stool types, which requires manual interpretation by the owner. Cats.com's Katelynn Sobus criticized the 'stool image check-ups' as not working as advertised, stating that the reality is that there is only one camera and photos are taken from afar for later viewing, not through a dedicated scanning mechanism. The lack of actual AI health diagnostics means that the device cannot provide the automated health insights promised in its marketing.
The device's inability to provide meaningful health monitoring is further highlighted by the fact that users must manually compare images against a chart provided in the app, rather than receiving automated alerts or analysis. This defeats the purpose of having a smart litter box that can detect health issues early. The feature that was supposed to be the most innovative aspect of the Purobot Ultra—health monitoring through AI stool analysis—fails to deliver on its promise. Users are left to manually interpret what they see in the footage, which is time-consuming and not particularly useful for those seeking automated health insights. The marketing materials make it seem like the device can automatically detect health issues, but in practice, it only provides the raw footage and a basic comparison chart.
Auto-bagging and waste management
The auto-bagging feature of the Purobot Ultra is both praised and criticized across reviews, with some users finding it convenient while others report mechanical issues. Sam's Club reviewer Carlos, who had the device for six months with five cats, reported that the bag did not seal correctly, requiring him to cut and tie the bags manually. He noted that this was not normal behavior and that the device should have worked properly for more than three months. The Petkit support team responded to his complaint, suggesting that since he had the unit for six months, it was still within the one-year warranty period, and they could help troubleshoot the issue. However, the fact that such a fundamental feature fails in real-world usage raises concerns about the device's reliability. Another reviewer at Sam's Club reported that the bag cutting mechanism stopped working properly after the 90-day return window, forcing them to argue with the company to get a replacement part without being charged.
Despite these mechanical issues, the auto-bagging system does provide a level of convenience that users appreciate. WIRED's Molly Higgins noted that she loved the auto bagging feature, calling it a 'game changer' compared to her previous Litter-Robot 3. The automatic waste packaging prevents direct exposure to waste and the spread of bacteria, which is a significant advantage. However, the need to purchase PETKIT's refill rings for the auto-bagging system creates an ongoing cost that users must factor into their budget. The refill rings are sold in a 4-pack for over $10 per refill ring, which adds up over time. The thin and tear-prone bags in the refill kits also present a practical challenge, as they require frequent replacement and careful handling to prevent leakage. While the auto-bagging system is a valuable feature, its reliability and cost-effectiveness are questionable based on user experiences.
App functionality and subscription requirements
The Purobot Ultra's app is central to its functionality, but it requires a subscription to access premium features. WIRED's Molly Higgins noted that the free trial of Premium Petkit Care+ lasted 30 days from setup, with three tiers of subscription plans starting at $4 a month for Basic and going up to $12 a month for Premium+. The Premium version playback allows users to watch the entire process of their cat using the litter box, including the litter tumbling as the stool is separated and dispensed into the airtight bag below. However, the app's analytics and video quality are limited, with the footage being low-resolution and in black-and-white, making it difficult to observe details. Cats.com's Katelynn Sobus criticized the app for requiring a monthly subscription for many features, which she felt was not justified given the device's price point. The app's interface is described as easy to navigate, but the lack of meaningful health insights and the requirement for a subscription to access core features diminishes its value.
The subscription model creates a recurring cost that users must consider when evaluating the device's value. The free trial period is short, and the premium features are not available without payment, which may be a barrier for some users. The app does provide useful information such as usage logs, including the number of times the box was used and the average duration, but the video quality and the manual interpretation required for health monitoring reduce its effectiveness. The app's ability to watch short clips of each time a cat walks near the litter box is a useful feature, but the black-and-white, low-resolution footage makes it difficult to observe anything meaningful. Users who want to take full advantage of the device's capabilities must commit to a monthly subscription, which adds to the overall cost of ownership.
Size and usability in multi-cat homes
The Purobot Ultra's dimensions are substantial, measuring approximately 21 inches wide, 32 inches deep, and 24 inches high, which makes it a large device that requires significant space. WIRED's Molly Higgins noted that the front-facing opening rotates on an X-axis, staying open the entire time to ensure cats can jump out if there's a malfunction, which is a safety feature. However, this large footprint means that the device may not be suitable for smaller homes or apartments where space is limited. The device's large size also makes it difficult to move or reposition once installed. Cats.com's Katelynn Sobus noted that the device is incredibly expensive compared to other models, and the technology is too faulty to justify the price in her opinion. The large footprint and high price point make the Purobot Ultra a significant investment that may not be practical for all users.
Despite its size, the Purobot Ultra is designed to accommodate multiple cats, with the waste bin lasting up to 20 days with a single cat. This is a significant advantage for households with multiple cats, as it reduces the frequency of emptying the waste bin. However, the device's performance in multi-cat households is mixed. While it can track usage and identify individual cats, the facial recognition system's reliability is questionable, especially with cats of similar appearance or weight. The device's ability to handle multiple cats is further limited by the mechanical issues reported by some users, such as problems with bag sealing and cutting. The large size and high price point make it a good investment for households that can justify the cost and have the space to accommodate the device, but it may not be suitable for smaller homes or budget-conscious buyers.
Odor control and cleaning performance
The Purobot Ultra includes a 4-stage odor control system and a sealed base to prevent leaks, which are important features for any automatic litter box. WIRED's Molly Higgins noted that the device smells less than other automatic litter boxes she has tested, which is a positive aspect. The sealed base and the 360-degree rotation camera help to contain odors and prevent leakage. However, nobody has measured how much the odor control system actually cuts smell, so buyers are left to judge from their own experience. The device's ability to keep odors sealed away is one of its strengths, but the lack of specific measurements or tests makes it difficult to assess how well it performs compared to other models. The 10L waste bin is designed to last up to 20 days with a single cat, which reduces the frequency of emptying and contributes to better odor control. The auto-cleaning feature ensures that the waste is cleaned after each use, which helps to maintain a cleaner environment.
The cleaning performance of the Purobot Ultra is generally positive, with users noting that it effectively cleans the litter box after each use. The auto-cleaning process includes separating the soiled clumps from the clean litter and dispensing them into the airtight bag below. However, the mechanical reliability of the cleaning system is questionable, as some users have reported issues with the bag cutting and sealing mechanisms. The device's ability to clean effectively is also affected by the type of litter used, as it has different grates for different litter types to ensure proper separation. The cleaning performance is a key feature that users appreciate, but the mechanical issues that some users have experienced raise concerns about long-term reliability.
Build quality and design elements
The build quality of the Purobot Ultra is described as solid, with a design that prioritizes safety and functionality. WIRED's Molly Higgins noted that the device came in a couple of parts that were easy to connect, and the setup process took less than an hour, including linking the app to the box. The front-facing opening rotates on an X-axis and stays open the entire time, which is a safety feature designed to ensure cats can escape if there's a malfunction. The device also includes several safety sensors and a front that's always open, even during scooping, to keep cats safe. The interior light can be turned on and off, and there is a setting that covers the waste before scooping, which helps to contain odors. The design makes deep cleaning simple and fast compared to other automatic litter boxes, which is a positive aspect for users who value convenience.
However, the design elements are not without criticism. Cats.com's Katelynn Sobus noted that the construction quality was rated 3 out of 5, indicating that while the device functions well, it may not be built to the highest standards. The device's large footprint and weight (approximately 32.18 lbs) make it difficult to move or reposition once installed. The device also comes with a set of auto-refilling waste bags and two N60 pet odor eliminators, which are useful additions. The inclusion of a cute sticker set is a small but appreciated touch for pet owners. The device's ability to transform the cardboard packaging into a cat tunnel is also a unique feature that adds value for pet owners who enjoy creative uses for their products. Despite these positive design elements, the overall build quality and the mechanical reliability of the device are concerns that need to be addressed.
Strengths
- +AI-powered facial recognition for multiple cats
- +Camera records inside the litter box with night vision
- +Self-emptying litter box with airtight waste bag
- +App allows remote monitoring and camera control
Watch-outs
- −Video quality is low-resolution and black-and-white
- −AI recognition accuracy drops after premium trial ends
How it compares
The Petkit Purobot Ultra's low-resolution video and declining AI accuracy after the trial period make it less appealing than the Max Pro 2, which offers better long-term facial recognition and health tracking. Compared to the Petlibro Luma, it lacks detailed health insights but provides a rotating camera for monitoring, which the Luma does not feature.
Rating sources
“The Petkit Purobot Ultra is a self-cleaning litter box that can accommodate multiple cats, track usage, and record litter box visits. It does its job well, self-cleaning after each use, mitigating bad odor, and saving time and effort.”
“overall this is a fantastic product and I couldn't ask for a better co-host as honey cat all three of our cats love this thing that can't keep them out of it”
Our 4.2 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
