Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums reduce the need for regular full-blown sweeping, they can't replace traditional plug-in models. To keep them in top condition requires emptying the dust bin after each cleaning session, wiping the cameras and sensors occasionally, and replacing filters and side brushes as required.
It has a decent-sized bin and an auto-empty. Its obstacle avoidance remains tangled in cords and socks and also misses dirt that is near baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694
The Roomba 694 is an entry-level robot vacuum that uses dual brush rollers (one bristle and one rubber) to sweep up dust, dirt and other debris from unfinished floors. It also has three-spoked spinning brushes that can remove debris from the wall's corners and edges. The Roomba 694 does a great job of picking up pet hair. However, it can leave some in the carpet fibers after several cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a great self-manipulator, and doesn't get caught in low furniture or cords. It's not equipped with the latest obstacle-avoidance technology and its battery could run out before it returns to its dock.
This is a great option if you're looking for an affordable robot cleaner that's easy to use. It can be controlled manually using the Clean, Dock and Spot Clean buttons on its top or by voice commands through your favorite voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and can follow Siri commands through iOS Shortcuts.
You can also control the Roomba 694 remotely from any location by downloading the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or tablet. The app allows you to 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 app will also notify users of errors if the robot encounters a problem for instance, if he is pushed into a furniture crevice.
While the Roomba 694 does an excellent job of maneuvering itself around the house, it is not built to be used on narrow paths or stairs. It also does a poor job of cleaning carpets with low pile leaving a lot of hair clumps and tufts left behind. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you might need to think about buying using a different robotic vacuum.
Unlike the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter This model does not have an auto-emptying bin. The dirt bin is of a moderate size, but it will need to be cleaned out after every cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you view a record of your Roomba cleaning jobs. This includes the time and date they were performed as well as the method used to start them (app, scheduling or physical buttons on the robot) along with the duration of the job and the status of completion.
The iRobot is superior to the Coredy R550, because it is more solidly constructed and has lower recurring costs and a larger dustbin. It also charges faster, can maneuver over obstacles such as electrical cords, and performs better on plain floors as well as on high-pile rugs. Its companion app offers an enhanced set of automation capabilities, too. The Roomba 694 is not quite as efficient as the Shark IQ robotic cleaner, that has a larger dirt compartment, lasts longer on a single charge, and comes with physical boundaries that block it from certain rooms.
Roomba 960 from iRobot
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums manufactured by iRobot. It has many features that distinguish it from other robots. These include advanced dirt detection technology as well as mapping-saving technologies. It has an impressive vacuum system and is compatible Alexa. This is a great choice for those looking to purchase a high-tech robot vacuum with WiFi connectivity and excellent cleaning capabilities.
The 960 robot is a circular robot that comes with two rubber brushrolls for stability and three casters wheels. It is easy to lift and lower, as it weighs just 3.9kg. You can purchase it with or without a docking system based on what you prefer. The docking station is essential for keeping the Roomba running and plugged in even when it's not in use. It's a great method to keep the robot close at hand and ready to clean when you require it.
iRobot designed 960 to work on carpet and bare floors. Its performance on hard surfaces is impressive and it is able to remove pet hair. It also does a good job of removing large debris like Kitty litter and cereal. It isn't as effective well on carpets with high piles however. It is able to pick up pet hair, and larger debris. However, it has trouble with smaller particles, like sand. Some sand gets stuck between the brushes and dirt compartment.
In a test using quaker oats the 960 did well, picking up the majority of the powder. automated vacuum cleaner is able to move over obstacles and furniture. The circular shape allows it to be placed under chair legs. The 960 is compatible with Alexa and can be activated with voice commands. It can also 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. The components need to be replaced every few months to ensure they are in good shape. Also, you should clean the dirt compartment sensors on a regular basis. 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 a great robot vacuum, but it is not perfect. It is expensive, but worth it if you want an item that cleans well. It also comes with features that make it a great alternative for busy individuals. The iRobot App is easy to use and the Roomba's cleaning schedule can be set. It comes in a range of finishes and colors, to allow you to match the Roomba to your decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba 980 is the most advanced robotic vacuum available in the current lineup of iRobot's. Its full suite of navigation sensors allow it to navigate under and around furniture and along edges, and Cliff Detect prevents it from falling down stairs. Its multi-surface brushes grab dirt and debris off any type of floor, while moving 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 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 increase its suction power and move over these zones multiple times before moving forward.
A new feature pushed to the app by October 2019 allows users to create digital Keep Out Zones to prevent the Roomba from entering areas of the home in which they would like it to remain unaffected. This functionality is an important addition to the already robust set of features available on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a beneficial device for many people.
After a two-hour clean-up, the Roomba 980 automatically returns to its docking station to recharge. This is the only robot in its class that comes with this feature. It lets you leave your robot at work while you are away for extended durations. The app's remote control functionality allows you to start or stop cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.
The Roomba App is easy to use and intuitive. The main screen features a big clean button that is activated by a single touch and the bottom row of icons provides quick access to settings, such as cleaning preferences and a weekly schedule and much more. It is possible to connect the app to your smart assistant and give voice commands.
The ability to issue a command through the app isn't always a quick process, however it could take a while for Roomba to understand your request. This is a major issue for an appliance that is so dependent on its smart controls. It's particularly egregious considering the 980 costs so much.
The Roomba 980, iRobot’s flagship model is a powerful piece of equipment. Its powerful cleaning capabilities and long battery life of 2 hours, and smart features make it one of the top robot vacuums available. However, its lack of a dedicated remote control and sluggish app mean it's not as versatile as the other models. The 980 is a fantastic option for those looking for an efficient vacuum that can take the burden off of you. Be prepared to pay some more.