Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums cut down on the need for periodic full-blown sweeping, they can't substitute for traditional plug-in models. Maintaining them in good shape requires emptying the dust bin following every cleaning session, wiping down the cameras and sensors occasionally, and replacing filters and side brushes as needed.
It comes with a large bin, and an auto-empty system that is quiet. But its obstacle avoidance still gets tangled up in cords and socks, and it is unable to detect dirt close to baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694"
The Roomba 694 is an entry-level robot vacuum that has two brush rollers (one bristle and one rubber) to remove dirt, dust and other debris from bare floors. It also has three-spoked spinning brushes that picks up debris from wall edges and corners. The Roomba 694 is quite efficient in removing pet hair, but it can leave some behind in the carpet fibers if you let it go through several cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a great self-manipulator and doesn't get stuck in low furniture or cords. It's not equipped with advanced obstacle-avoidance technology, and its battery can be depleted before returning to its dock.
It's still a great choice for those who want an inexpensive robot vacuum that's simple to operate. You can manually control it using the 'Clean "Dock" and the '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 be used to follow Siri commands from 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 monitor the robot's condition. You can even use the app to cancel a cleaning job in progress, if needed. The iRobot app can also issue error alerts in the event that the robot has a problem, such as if he gets stuck in an opening in the furniture.
While the Roomba 694 does an excellent job of navigating around the house, it's not built for narrow or sloping paths. It doesn't perform well at vacuuming low pile carpets and leaves behind a lot of tufts and hair clumps. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you might think about an alternative robot vacuum.
This model is different from the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, doesn't have an automatic bin that emptys itself. The dirt compartment is moderate size, but it must be cleaned after every cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you review the record of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the date and time they were performed and the method used to initiate them (app or scheduling buttons on the robot) along with the duration of the job and the completed status.
The iRobot is superior to the Coredy R550, because it is more sturdy and durable and has lower ongoing costs, and a bigger dustbin. It is also faster to charge, and is able to maneuver around obstacles such as electrical cords and is more efficient on plain floors as well as on high-pile rug. Its companion app provides a more advanced suite of automation capabilities, too. The Roomba 694 isn't as good as the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, however, it has a much bigger dirt compartment and lasts longer on charge, and includes physical boundaries to ensure it stays out of certain rooms.
Roomba 960 by iRobot
The Roomba 960 robot vacuum is one of iRobot's most advanced models. It has several features that set it apart from other robots, including advanced dirt detection and a map-saving technology. It comes with an efficient vacuum system and is compatible Alexa. This is an excellent choice for those who want a high-tech robot vacuum with WiFi connectivity and superior cleaning performance.
The 960 robot is a circular model that comes with two rubber brushrolls for stability and three casters wheels. It weighs 3.9kg making it simple to carry up and down steps. You can buy it with or without docking systems based on the features you prefer. The docking station is essential to keep the Roomba running and plugged in when it isn't in use. It's a great method to keep the robot on fingertips and ready to clean when you require it.
iRobot created the 960 to work on floors that are not bare and carpet. Its performance on hard surfaces is remarkable and it is able to get rid of pet hair. It also excels in picking up large pieces of debris like cat litter and cereal. It is less effective on carpets with a high pile. robot vacuum deals picks up some pet hair, as well as some larger particles, but it is troublesome with smaller particles like sand. Some of the sand gets caught between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test with Quaker Oats The 960 performed well in capturing the majority of the powder scattered. The robot vacuum is capable of maneuvering around a wide variety of furniture and obstacles and its circular design permits it to fit snugly under the legs of chairs. The 960 is Alexa compatible and can be controlled by voice commands. It can be programmed to automatically return to its charging station.
The 960 requires some maintenance. This includes regular replacement of the dust bin, filter, and the spinning brush. These components should be replaced every few months to ensure they are in good working order. Also, you should clean your dirt compartment sensors frequently. In keeping these parts in good condition will keep the Roomba running at peak performance and help it to last longer.
The 960 has a few issues, but overall it is a top robotic vacuum. It is fairly expensive, but worth the money if you are looking for a vacuum with outstanding cleaning performance. It also has a wide range of features that make it a great alternative for those with busy lives. The iRobot App is simple to use, and Roomba's cleaning schedule can be set. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes so that you can match the Roomba to your decor.
Roomba 960 from iRobot
The Roomba 980 is the most sophisticated robotic vacuum in the current line-up of iRobot's. The Roomba 980's comprehensive suite of navigation sensors let it navigate under and around furniture, as well as along edges. Cliff Detect helps to prevent it from falling down the stairs. Its multi-surface rubber brush brushes let dirt slide off and collect it from any flooring type 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 position and avoid bumping against walls and objects. The camera also detects dirtier areas, which triggers the Roomba to automatically boost suction power, and then move over the areas repeatedly before moving forward.
A new feature pushed to the app via October 2019 lets users create digital Keep Out Zones that prevent the Roomba from entering areas of the home in which they would like it to remain untouched. This feature is an important addition to the already robust set of features on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a valuable tool for many consumers.
After a two hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 comes back to its docking stations to recharge. It's the only robot in this category to offer such a feature, and it allows you to leave it alone to perform its task even when you're away for long periods of time. The app's remote control feature allows you to begin or stop cleaning sessions from anywhere in the world.
The Roomba App is simple to use and simple. The main screen has an enormous clean button that can be activated by just a single tap, and the bottom row of icons offers quick access to settings, such as cleaning preferences and a weekly schedule and more. The app can be linked with your smart assistant to issue voice commands.
Issuing a command from the app isn't always a quick procedure, however it could take a while for Roomba to understand your request. 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 flagship model from iRobot, the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its powerful cleaning capabilities and battery life of two hours, and clever features make it one of the best robot vacuums available. However, its lack of a separate remote control and slow-running app mean it's not as user-friendly as other models. That said, the 980 is still a great alternative for anyone looking for an efficient vacuum that takes care of itself. Be prepared to pay some more.