Mark canopy density, walls, fences, buildings and the base-station view. Note where the mower must pass between zones.
A navigation label is not a canopy test.
RTK, cameras, LiDAR and odometry behave differently when branches, trunks, walls and changing light obscure the yard. Treat “wire-free” as an architecture—not proof of reliable coverage.
What happens after positioning confidence drops: stop, search, drift, retrace, or require manual recovery?
Test the most obstructed zone in the lighting and foliage conditions that matter, including wet leaves if relevant.
Evidence to collect
- Manufacturer documentation for positioning modes and base-station requirements.
- A property-specific map showing obstructed routes and no-go boundaries.
- A return-to-dock and zone-transition trial with recovery cases recorded.
- Return policy, support coverage and any accessory cost needed to make navigation work.
Robotic.org has not independently lab-tested the compared products. A property trial remains the decisive check.