Robot Vacuum ReviewsWhile robot vacuums cut down on the need for regular, full-blown sweeping, they can't substitute for traditional plug-in models. To keep them in good shape, empty the dust bins after each cleaning session. Clean the camera and sensors frequently. Replace filters and side brushes when needed.
It has a large bin and an auto-empty feature that is quiet. But its obstacle avoidance still gets tangled up with 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 uses dual brush rollers (one bristle and one rubber) to sweep up dust, dirt, and debris from bare floors. The Roomba 694 comes with a rotating brush that can pick up debris from corners and wall edges. The Roomba 694 is pretty effective at picking up pet hair, though it may leave some in the 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. It does not have advanced obstacle-avoidance systems, and the battery can run out before returning to the dock.
This is a great option if you're looking for a basic
robot cleaner that's easy to use. It can be controlled manually by using the Clean, Dock, and Spot Clean buttons on its top, or with voice commands using your preferred voice assistant. It is 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 design custom cleaning schedules as well as track the robot's performance. You can also make use of the app to stop 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 is pushed into an opening in furniture.
The Roomba 694 is a decent vacuum cleaner, but it's not designed to maneuver stairs or narrow paths. It also does a lousy job of cleaning carpets with low pile, leaving many hair clumps and tufts in its wake. You may want to choose an alternative robot vacuum if you have low-pile flooring in your home.
This model is different from the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, doesn't have an automatic emptying bin itself. The dirt compartment is moderate size, but it will need to be cleaned out after every cleaning session. The iRobot Home app lets you review the history of your Roomba's cleaning jobs as well as their time and date, how they were initiated (app scheduling, app or using the physical buttons on the robot) and their duration, and their status as completed.
The iRobot 694 is superior to the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly constructed, incurs lower cost of operation, has a larger dustbin, charges faster, maneuvers 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 a suite of more advanced automation features. The Roomba 694 doesn't match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, however, it features a bigger dirt compartment and lasts longer on charge, and has physical boundary strips to keep it out of certain rooms.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums manufactured by iRobot. It comes with a variety of features that set it apart from other robots. It has advanced dirt detection technology as well as mapping-saving technologies. It also has a powerful cleaning system that is compatible with Alexa. This is a great option for those looking for an advanced
bagless robot vacuum vacuum with WiFi connectivity and superior cleaning performance.
The 960 is a circular robot equipped with two brushrolls made of rubber and three caster wheels for stability. It is easy to raise and lower, as it weighs only 3.9kg. You can buy it with or without a docking system, depending on what you prefer. The docking station is crucial for keeping the Roomba running and plugged in when it is not working. The docking station is an efficient and simple way to keep your robot clean and powered when it's not.
iRobot created 960 to work on carpets and floors that are not bare. Its performance on hard surfaces is impressive and it's able to remove pet hair. It also does an excellent job of removing large amounts of debris, such as Kitty litter and cereal. It is less effective on carpets with high pile. It can pick up pet hair and some larger debris, but it struggles with smaller particles such as sand. Some of the sand is stuck between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test with Quaker Oats, the 960 performed well, picking up most of the powder scattered. The vacuum's robotic design is able of maneuvering through a variety of obstacles and furniture, and the circular design allows it to fit tightly under the legs of chairs. The 960 is compatible with Alexa, and can be controlled with voice commands. It can be programmed to automatically return to its charging station.
The 960 needs some maintenance. This includes regular replacement of the dust bin, filter and the spinning brush. These parts should be replaced every couple of months to ensure they are in good shape. It is also recommended to clean your dirt compartment sensors regularly. These components will make the Roomba run at its best and last longer if they are kept in good working order.
The 960 is an excellent robotic
vacuum robot, however it does have some flaws. It is expensive but it's worth it if you want an item that cleans well. It also comes with a range of features that make it a great alternative for those with busy lifestyles. The iRobot app is easy to use and the Roomba can be scheduled to clean at certain times. It is also available in a range of finishes and colors so you can choose to match it 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 set of navigation sensors enables it to navigate between furniture and along edges, and Cliff Detect helps to prevent it from falling down the stairs. The multi-surface rubber brushes remove dirt and loosen it from any floor type and then push debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology captures the environment when it moves, and creates visual landmarks to help it remember where it's been, and to avoid hitting objects and walls. The camera can also detect dirtier areas. This causes the Roomba to automatically boost its suction power and move over these zones several times before moving on.
Users can create digital Keep Out zones to prevent the Roomba from entering areas of the home that they don't want it to be able to enter. This feature was added to the app by October, 2019. This functionality is an important addition to the already impressive set of features available on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a beneficial tool for many consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 goes back to its docking stations to recharge. It's the only robot in this category that has this feature, and allows users to let it to work when you're away for extended periods of time. Remote control capabilities within the app lets you to start cleaning, stop and schedule sessions from anywhere in the world.
The Roomba app is fun to use and the interface is simple and intuitive. The main screen is equipped with a large clean button which can be activated by one touch. The bottom row of icons gives quick access to settings like cleaning preferences, weekly schedules, and much more. You can also connect the app to your personal assistant to make voice commands.
It can take a while for the Roomba app to recognize the need for. It's a frustrating problem for a machine so dependent 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 machinery. Its high-powered cleaning power, long battery life of 2 hours, and smart features make it one of the best robot vacuums available. However, the absence of a remote control that is specifically designed for it and slow-running app mean it's not as versatile as some of the competition. The 980 is an excellent option for anyone who is looking for an efficient automated vacuum that takes the burden off of you. Make sure you save a bit of money.