While robot vacuums can reduce the need for periodic full-blown sweeping, they can't substitute for traditional plug-in models. To keep them in top condition requires emptying the trash bin after each cleaning session, wiping down the sensors and cameras occasionally as well as replacing filters and side brushes as required.
It comes with a large bin and an auto-empty feature that is quiet. Its obstacle-avoiding capabilities are tangled in cords and socks, and it misses dirt near baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694
The Roomba 694 is an entry-level robot vacuum that utilizes two brush rollers (one bristle and one rubber) to clean dust, dirt and other debris from unfinished floors. It also has three-spoked spinning brushes that removes debris from walls' edges and corners. The Roomba 694 is pretty efficient in removing pet hair, but it will leave some in carpet fibers if you let it go through several cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a reliable self-manipulator that doesn't get stuck in low furniture or cords. However, it doesn't come equipped with the latest obstacle avoidance technology and its battery could be depleted before returning to its dock.
It's still a good choice if you want an affordable robot vacuum that is easy to operate. You can control it manually using the 'Clean "Dock," and 'Spot Clean' buttons on the top of its cover or using voice commands that are relayed to your favorite voice assistant. It's compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it can also follow Siri commands in Shortcuts for iOS.
You can also manage the Roomba 694 remotely from any place by downloading the iRobot Home app on your tablet or smartphone. The app lets you create custom cleaning schedules and also monitor the robot's performance. The app can be used to stop a cleaning task in progress if it is necessary. The iRobot Home app can provide error notifications when the robot is faced with an issue, such as if it wedges itself into an opening in furniture.
The Roomba 694 is a great vacuum cleaner however, it's not designed to use narrow pathways or stairs. It also does a poor job of vacuuming carpets with low pile leaving a lot of hair clumps and tufts behind. You might want to consider a different robot vacuum when you have flooring that is 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. Its internal dirt compartment is moderately sized however, you'll need to empty it after every cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you look back at the record of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the time and date they were executed, the method used to initiate them (app or scheduling buttons on the robot) along with the duration of the job and the finished status.
The iRobot 694 is superior to the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly built, incurs lower cost of operation and comes with a larger dust bin that charges faster, moves over obstacles like electrical cords without difficulty, and performs better on bare floors and high-pile carpet. The app that comes with it provides an array of more advanced automation features. The Roomba 694 does not match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, however, as it comes with a larger dirt compartment, lasts longer on a charge, and includes physical boundary strips to keep it out of certain areas.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 robot vacuum is one of the most advanced models. It has a number of features that distinguish it from other models, including advanced dirt detection and map-saving technology. It comes with an efficient vacuum system that is compatible with Alexa. This is a great choice for those who want a high tech robot vacuum that has WiFi connectivity and excellent cleaning performance.
The 9960 is a round robot with two rubber brushrolls and three caster wheels to ensure stability. It weighs 3.9kg which makes it easy to lift up and down steps. You can choose to purchase it with or without a docking system based on what you prefer. The docking station keeps the Roomba connected and charged when it's not working. It's a good method to keep the robot on the ready to clean whenever you need it.
iRobot designed 960 to work on carpets and floors that are not bare. Its performance on hard surfaces is remarkable and it's able to clean up pet hair. It also does a great job of picking up large amounts of debris, such as Kitty litter and cereal. It does not perform as well on carpets with a high pile. It is able to pick up pet hair and some larger debris, but has trouble with smaller particles such as sand. Some of the sand gets caught between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test using Quaker Oats, the 960 performed well, picking up the majority of the powder. The robot vacuum is able to move through obstacles and furniture. The circular shape allows it to be placed under chair legs. The 960 is Alexa compatible and can be controlled via voice commands. It can be programmed to automatically return to its charging station.
The 960 requires some maintenance, including 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 condition. Also, you should clean the sensors in the dirt compartment regularly. These parts will aid in making the Roomba run at its best and last longer if you keep them in good working order.
The 960 is a great robotic vacuum, but it does have some flaws. It's quite expensive, but worth the investment if you are looking for a robot with exceptional cleaning performance. It also comes with features that make it an ideal option for busy people. The iRobot App is easy to use, and Roomba's cleaning schedule is set. It comes in a variety of finishes and colors, so that you can match the Roomba with your decor.
Roomba 960 by iRobot
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 allow it to navigate around and under furniture, and along edges. Cliff Detect prevents it from falling down stairs. Its multi-surface rubber brush brushes loosen and grab dirt from any floor and then swells debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM captures the surrounding environment as it moves. It creates visual landmarks to assist in keeping track of its location and avoid bumping against walls and objects. The camera is also able to detect dirtier areas. This triggers the Roomba to automatically boost its suction power and then move over these areas several times before moving on.
A new feature that will be added to the app via October 2019 allows users to create digital Keep Out Zones to prevent the Roomba from entering rooms that they would prefer to remain untouched. This functionality is a welcome addition to the already-strong suite of features on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a useful device for many people.
After a two hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 goes back to its docking stations to recharge. It's the only robot in this class that has this feature, and allows users to let it to work when you're away for extended periods of time. The app's remote control feature allows you to begin, stop, and schedule cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.
The Roomba app is enjoyable to use and the interface is simple and intuitive. The main screen is adorned with an enormous clean button that can be activated with a single tap and the bottom row of icons provides quick access to settings such as cleaning preferences, a weekly schedule, and much more. You can even connect the app to your preferred smart assistant to send voice commands.
It can take a while for the Roomba app to recognize an instruction. It's a frustrating problem for the machine that relies on its sophisticated controls. And it's especially egregious when you consider that the 980 is priced so much.
The Roomba 980, iRobot’s flagship model, is a formidable piece of equipment. Its powerful cleaning power and two-hour battery life and a host of intelligent features make it a top choice among the best robot vacuums in the industry. It's not as versatile as others due to the lack of an app specifically designed for it and remote control. The 980 is a great option for anyone who is looking for an efficient automated vacuum that will take the burden off of you. Make sure you save a bit of money.