Robot Vacuum Reviews

While robot vacuums cut down on 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 dust bin following each cleaning session, wiping down the cameras and sensors occasionally and changing filters and side brushes when needed.

It comes with a large bin, and an auto-empty system that is quiet. But its obstacle avoidance still is entangled in cords and socks, and it is unable to detect dirt close to baseboards.

iRobot Roomba 694"

The Roomba 694 robot vacuum is an entry level robot vacuum that has dual roller brushes (one bristle, one rubber) to remove dirt, dust and debris from flooring that is not bare. It also comes with a three-spoked spinning brush that removes debris from wall corners and edges. The Roomba 694 does a great job of removing pet hair. However, it could leave some in the carpet fibers following multiple cleaning cycles.

The 694 is a great self-manipulator that doesn't get stuck in low furniture or cords. However, it's not equipped with the latest obstacle-avoidance technology, and its battery can be exhausted before returning to its dock.

It's still a good option when you're looking for an inexpensive robot vacuum that's easy to operate. It can be controlled manually using the Clean, Dock, and Spot Clean buttons on its top or by voice commands via your preferred voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and can respond to Siri commands using iOS Shortcuts.

You can also manage the Roomba 694 remotely from any location by downloading the iRobot Home app on your tablet or smartphone. The app lets you make custom cleaning schedules and track the robot's health. You can also use the app to end the cleaning task in progress, should you require it. The iRobot Home app can relay error notifications when the robot is faced with an issue for instance, if it gets stuck in the crevices of furniture.

While the Roomba 694 does a good job of navigating itself around the house, it is not made for stairs or narrow pathways. It does not do a great job of cleaning carpets with low pile and leaves behind a lot of tufts and hair clumps. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you might want to consider using a different robotic vacuum.

This model, unlike the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, doesn't have an automatic emptying bin itself. The dirt compartment inside is not large however, you'll have to empty it after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you view a history of your Roomba cleaning jobs. This includes the date and time they were executed as well as the method used to start them (app, scheduling or physical buttons on the robot) as well as the duration and the finished status.

The iRobot 694 is better than the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly built, incurs lower recurring costs, has a larger dustbin that charges faster, moves over obstacles like electrical cords without difficulty, and performs better on both carpets with high piles and bare floors. The app that comes with it provides an array of more advanced automation features. The Roomba 694 isn't as good as the Shark IQ robotic floor scrubber vacuum, however, it has a much bigger dirt compartment and lasts longer on charge, and has physical boundary strips to prevent it from certain rooms.

Roomba 960 by iRobot

The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums manufactured by iRobot. It is equipped with many features that make it stand out from other robots. These include advanced dirt detection technology as well as maps-saving technology. It is equipped with an impressive vacuum system and is compatible with Alexa. It is a great option for those looking for an advanced robot vacuum that has excellent cleaning performance and WiFi-connectivity.

The 960 is a circular robot with two rubber brushrolls and three caster wheels to ensure stability. It is easy to raise and lower, as it weighs just 3.9kg. You can choose to purchase it with or without docking system, depending on what you prefer. The docking station keeps the Roomba connected and charged even when it's not being used. The docking station is a practical and easy way to keep your robot in good condition and powered when it's not.

iRobot designed the 960 to work on both bare floors and carpet. Its performance is exceptional on hard surfaces, and it's able to easily remove pet hair. It also excels in removing large particles such as cereal and kitty-litter. It is less effective on high pile carpet. It is able to pick up pet hair, as well as larger debris. However, it has trouble with smaller particles such as sand. Sand gets caught between the brushes and the dirt compartment.

In a test with Quaker Oats the 960 performed admirably, picking up most of the scattered powder. The robotic vacuum is capable of maneuvering around a wide variety of obstacles and furniture, and its circular design permits it to fit snugly under the legs of chairs. The 960 is compatible with Alexa, and can be activated using voice commands. It can be programmed to automatically return to its charging station.

The 960 requires some upkeep which includes regular replacement of the filter, dust bin and the spinning brush. The components need to be replaced every few months to ensure they are in good condition. It is also recommended to clean your dirt compartment sensors frequently. These parts will aid in making the Roomba perform at its best robot vacuum for tile floors and last longer if you keep them in good condition.

The 960 has some flaws, but overall, it is an excellent robotic vacuum. It is expensive, but worth it if your goal is an item that cleans well. It also comes with features that make it an ideal choice for busy people. The iRobot App is simple to use and the Roomba's cleaning schedule is set. It's also available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can match it to your decor.

Roomba 980 from iRobot

The Roomba 980 is the most sophisticated robotic vacuum in the current lineup of iRobot's. The Roomba 980's complete suite of navigation sensors allows it to navigate around and under furniture, as well as along edges. Cliff Detect prevents it from falling down the stairs. The multi-surface rubber brushes remove dirt and loosen it from any floor and then push debris into the suction channel.

iRobot's vSLAM captures the environment while it moves. It creates visual landmarks that aid in identifying its position and avoid bumping against walls and objects. The camera also identifies dirty areas, which triggers the Roomba to automatically boost suction power, and then move over these areas repeatedly before moving on.

Users can set up digital Keep Out zones to prevent the Roomba entering areas in the home they do not want it to enter. This feature was added to the app in October 2019. This is an excellent addition to the already-strong suite of features found on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a useful tool for many consumers.

After a two-hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 returns to its docking stations to recharge. It's the only robot in this category to offer such a feature, and it lets users to let it to do its work even when you're away for extended periods of time. The app's remote control functionality lets you start and stop cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.

The Roomba app is enjoyable to use, and the interface is simple and easy to use. The main screen is equipped with a large clean button which can be activated with one touch. The bottom row of icons allows quick access to settings such as cleaning preferences, weekly schedules and more. You can even link the app to your preferred smart assistant to send voice commands.

It could take a while for the Roomba app to recognize an instruction. It's a frustrating flaw in an appliance that is so heavily dependent on its intelligent vacuum cleaner controls, and it seems particularly unjust given that the 980 is incredibly expensive.

The Roomba 980, iRobot’s flagship model, is a mighty piece of machinery. Its high-powered cleaning power and long battery life of two hours, and clever features make it among the top Robot broom vacuums available. It's less versatile than other models because it doesn't have a dedicated app and remote control. The 980 is an excellent option for anyone who is looking for a powerful automated vacuum that will take care of itself. Be prepared to spend some more.