Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums can reduce the need for regular, full-blown sweeping, they don't replace the traditional plug-in models. To keep them in top condition requires emptying the trash bin after every cleaning session, wiping the sensors and cameras occasionally, and replacing filters and side brushes when required.
It has a decent-sized bin as well as an automatic emptying. However, its obstacle avoidance gets tangled up in cords and socks, and it misses dirt that is close to baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694
The Roomba 694 is an entry-level robot vacuum that utilizes dual brush rollers (one bristle and one rubber) to clean dirt, dust, and debris from bare floors. The Roomba 694 also has an adjustable brush that can clean up debris from the corners and walls edges. The Roomba 694 does an excellent job of picking up pet hair. However, it can leave some in the carpet fibers after several cleaning cycles.
The 694 does a decent job of moving itself around, and it isn't a problem to maneuver around obstacles such as cords or furniture. However, it's not equipped with advanced obstacle-avoidance technology and its battery could be exhausted before returning to its dock.
It's still a great choice for those who want a basic robot vacuum that's easy to use. You can manually control it by pressing the 'Clean "Dock," and 'Spot Clean' buttons on its top cover, or using voice commands that are relayed to your preferred voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and can also follow Siri commands using iOS Shortcuts.
You can also manage the Roomba 694 remotely from any place by downloading the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or tablet. The app lets you make custom cleaning schedules and monitor the robot's condition. The app can be used to stop a cleaning task in progress, if needed. The iRobot Home app can relay error notifications when the robot is faced with an issue for instance, if it wedges itself into the crevices of furniture.
While the Roomba 694 does an excellent job of navigating around the house, it is not made for narrow or sloping paths. It also does a poor job of cleaning carpets with low pile leaving a lot of tufts and clumps of hair left behind. You might want to consider an alternative robot vacuum for flooring with low pile in your home.
In contrast to the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter This model does not have a self-emptying bin. The dirt compartment is moderate size, but it will have to be emptied after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you review the record of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the date and time they were executed and the method used to initiate them (app or scheduling buttons on the robot) as well as the duration and the completed status.
The iRobot 694 is better than the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly constructed, has lower cost of operation and has a bigger dust bin, charges faster, maneuvers over obstacles like electrical cords with less difficulty, and performs better on both bare floors and high-pile carpet. Its companion app provides a more advanced suite of automation capabilities and features, too. The Roomba 694 isn't as good as the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, though, which has a much bigger dirt compartment, lasts longer on a charge, and comes with physical boundary strips to prevent it from certain areas.
Roomba 960 by iRobot
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums manufactured by iRobot. It has a number of features that set it apart from other robots, including advanced dirt detection and a map-saving technology. It is equipped with an efficient vacuum system and is compatible with Alexa. This is a great choice for those who want a high-tech robot vacuum that has WiFi connectivity and superior cleaning capabilities.
The 960 is a circular robotic equipped with two rubber brushrolls as well as three caster wheels for stability. It is easy to raise and lower as it weighs just 3.9kg. It is available with docking station or without, depending on your preference. The docking station keeps the Roomba plugged in and charged even when it's not in use. The docking station is an efficient and simple method of keeping your robot tidy and fully powered when it's not.
iRobot designed the 960 to work well on both bare floors and carpet. Its performance on hard surfaces is impressive, and it can easily remove pet hair. It also does an excellent job of removing large debris like cereal and kitty litter. It performs less well on carpets with a high pile. It can remove pet hair, and larger particles. However, it has trouble with smaller particles, like sand. Some sand gets caught between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test with Quaker Oats, the 960 performed well, picking up the majority of the powder. The robotic vacuum is capable of maneuvering through a variety of furniture and obstacles and its circular design permits it to be tucked away under chair legs. The 960 is Alexa compatible and can be controlled via voice commands. It can be programmed to return automatically to its charging station.
The 960 requires some maintenance. This includes regular replacement of the dust bin, filter, and spinning brush. It is recommended to replace these components every few months or so to ensure that they are in good working order. You should also clean the dirt compartment sensors regularly. In keeping these parts in good working order will keep the Roomba functioning at its best and will allow it to last longer.
The 960 is an excellent robotic vacuum, however it is not perfect. It's costly however, it is worth it if you want an appliance that cleans well. It also offers a variety of features that make it a great alternative for those with busy life. The iRobot App is easy to use and the Roomba's cleaning schedule can be set. It is available in a variety of finishes and colors to allow you to make it a part of your decor.
iRobot Roomba 980
The Roomba 980 is the most advanced robotic vacuum in the current line-up of iRobot's. The Roomba 980's comprehensive suite of navigation sensors let it navigate around and under furniture, as well as along edges. Cliff Detect stops it from falling down stairs. Its multi-surface brushes grab dirt and debris from any kind of floor, while moving debris into the suction channel.
iRobot’s vSLAM captures the surrounding environment as it moves. robotic vacuum cleaners creates visual landmarks to aid in identifying its position and avoid bumping against walls and other objects. The camera is also able to detect areas with dirtier surfaces. This triggers the Roomba to automatically boost its suction power and move over these zones multiple times before moving on.
Users can designate digital Keep Out zones to prevent the Roomba accessing areas of the home they do not want it to enter. This feature was added to the app by October of 2019. This feature is a welcome addition to the already-strong suite of features available on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a valuable device for many people.
After a two-hour cleaning session, the Roomba 980 automatically returns to its docking station to recharge. It's the only robot in this class that has this feature, and it lets you to allow it to perform its task even when you're away for extended periods of time. The app's remote control function allows you to begin or stop cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.
The Roomba app is fun to use, and the interface is straightforward and easy to navigate. The main screen has an enormous clean button that can be activated with one touch. The bottom row of icons allows easy access to settings like cleaning preferences, weekly schedules and more. It is possible to connect the app to your smart assistant and make voice commands.
Sending best home vacuum cleaner via the app isn't always an instant procedure, however, and it can take some time for the Roomba to understand your request. This is a frustrating issue for the machine that is heavily dependent on its intelligent controls, and it seems especially awry considering that the 980 is expensive.
The flagship model from iRobot, the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its powerful cleaning power, long battery life of up to two hours, and smart features make it among the top robot vacuums on the market. However, its lack of a separate remote control and sluggish app mean it's not as versatile as the other models. The 980 is still a great alternative for anyone looking for a high-powered automated vacuum that can take the burden off of itself. Be prepared to spend some more.