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Imagine coming home after a long day to a fresh, odor-free home and a litter box that has already cleaned itself. That is the promise of modern automatic litter boxes, and two of the most talked-about models in 2026 are the CATLINK Open X and the Neakasa M1. Both feature an open-top design that cats love, but they take very different approaches to safety, odor control, and smart features. In this comparison, we will evaluate the CATLINK Open X vs Neakasa M1 to help you decide which self-cleaning litter box fits your household. Whether you have a timid kitten or a large multi-cat crew, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Before we dive into the details, you might also want to explore how automatic feeders keep food fresh to complete your pet care setup.

Buying Guide

Safety Features for Your Cat

Safety should be your top priority when choosing an automatic litter box. The Neakasa M1 Plus uses a 6-array rotary infrared system that scans the litter bed from multiple angles, reducing false triggers and ensuring your cat is never trapped. In contrast, the CATLINK Open X relies on an incomplete gear design that keeps the entrance always open, plus weight sensors and anti-pinch switches that stop the mechanism in 0.1 seconds. Both systems are highly rated, but if you have a particularly curious or skittish cat, the always-open entrance of the Open X may offer extra peace of mind.

For more on keeping your cat safe, check out our information hub on pet tech safety.

Odor Control and Maintenance

Odor control is a major consideration for any litter box. The Neakasa M1 Plus seals odors at the source with a built-in brush strip and upgraded composite sealing ring, so you do not need activated carbon or deodorizing packs. Its 11.2L waste bin supports up to 14 days of use for one cat. The CATLINK Open X features triple-layer odor locking and a 12L waste drawer that also holds up to 15 days of waste. Both models use a pull-and-wrap system for easy, mess-free disposal.

Smart Features and App Control

Both litter boxes offer app control, but with key differences. The Neakasa M1 Plus uses a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection and provides multi-cat tracking, letting you monitor each cat’s bathroom habits individually. The CATLINK Open X supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) for easier connectivity and includes a patented health monitor that distinguishes pee from poop. However, multi-cat recognition on the Open X is a one-time paid feature. If you have multiple cats and want individual health data without extra fees, the Neakasa M1 Plus may be the better choice.

For additional smart pet tech, see our best products list.

Design and Cat Comfort

Both models feature an open-top design that aligns with a cat’s natural instincts, offering a 360-degree view and easy entry. The Neakasa M1 Plus is especially praised for large breeds transitioning from traditional boxes, supporting cats up to 33 lbs. The CATLINK Open X also offers a spacious interior with a wide entrance, making it ideal for timid cats. The Neakasa M1 Plus includes a litter mat and optional cat step for added convenience, while the Open X emphasizes a senior-friendly top-fill design that requires no bending.

Read our product reviews for more insights on cat comfort.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between the CATLINK Open X and Neakasa M1 ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you value advanced safety sensors and free multi-cat health tracking with a proven open-top design, the Neakasa M1 Plus Automatic Cat Litter Box is a strong investment. On the other hand, if you prefer an always-open entrance, dual-band Wi-Fi for reliable connectivity, and a lower price point with excellent odor control, the CATLINK Open-X Open-Top Automatic Litter Box offers incredible value. Both models will keep your home fresh and your cat happy, so pick the one that best fits your lifestyle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the CATLINK Open X is designed for multi-cat households, but it requires a weight difference of at least 0.9 lbs between cats for accurate recognition. Multi-cat tracking is available as a one-time paid feature in the CATLINK App. For households with cats of similar size, the Neakasa M1 Plus offers free multi-cat tracking without extra costs.

How often do I need to empty the waste bin?

Both models offer impressive capacity. The Neakasa M1 Plus has an 11.2L waste bin that lasts up to 14 days for one cat, while the CATLINK Open X features a 12L drawer that can hold up to 15 days of waste. Actual frequency depends on the number of cats and their usage, but you can expect weekly or bi-weekly emptying in most homes.

Are these litter boxes safe for kittens?

Yes, both models are safe for kittens. The Neakasa M1 Plus supports cats from 3.3 lbs and includes a Kitten Mode in its app for added safety. The CATLINK Open X is also suitable for kittens, with its always-open entrance and 9-point safety system that stops the mechanism instantly. Always supervise young kittens during initial use.

For more tips on setting up pet tech, visit our Pet Tech Guides.