Robot Vacuum Reviews
Robot vacuums can reduce the requirement to clean regularly however, they cannot replace plug-in models. Keeping them in top shape requires emptying the trash bin after every cleaning session, wiping the sensors and cameras occasionally as well as replacing filters and side brushes when needed.
It has a large bin, and an auto-empty system that is quiet. However, its obstacle avoidance gets caught in socks and cords, 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 utilizes dual roller brushes (one bristle, one rubber) to pick up dust, dirt and other debris from bare flooring. It also comes with three-spoked rotating brushes that removes debris from walls' edges and corners. The Roomba 694 is quite efficient in removing pet hair, although it will leave some in the carpet fibers, if you let it go through multiple cleaning cycles.
The 694 does a decent job of maneuvering itself, and it doesn't get stuck on things such as cords or furniture. However, it's not equipped with the latest obstacle avoidance technology and its battery could run out before it returns to its dock.
It's still a great choice if you want an affordable robot vacuum that is simple to operate. You can control it manually using the Clean, Dock, and?Spot Clean buttons at its top, or with voice commands through your favorite voice assistant. It's compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it can be used to follow Siri commands in iOS Shortcuts.
You can also control the Roomba 694 remotely from anywhere 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. The app can be used to end a cleaning project in progress, if needed. The iRobot Home app will also provide error notifications when the robot encounters an issue for instance, if it wedges itself into a furniture crevice.
While the Roomba 694 does an excellent job of navigating itself around the house, it's not built for narrow or sloping paths. It also does a terrible job of cleaning carpets with low pile, leaving many hair clumps and tufts behind. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you may want to consider an alternative robot vacuum.
Unlike the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter however, this model doesn't have a self-emptying bin. The dirt bin is of a moderate size, but it will need to be emptied after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home app lets you view a History of your Roomba's cleaning tasks, including their time and date, how they were initiated (app scheduling, app or using the physical buttons on the robot) and their duration, and the status of their completion.
The iRobot 694 is superior to the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly built, incurs lower recurring costs and has a bigger dust bin and charges faster, can maneuver over obstacles such as electrical cords with less difficulty, and performs better on bare floors and high-pile carpet. The companion app comes with an enhanced set of automation capabilities as well. The Roomba 694 doesn't match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, though, which comes with a larger dirt compartment, lasts longer on a charge, and includes physical boundaries to ensure it stays out of certain areas.
Roomba 960 from iRobot
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vac uums manufactured by iRobot. It comes with a variety of features that make it stand out from other robots. It has advanced dirt detection technology and mapping-saving technologies. It also comes with a powerful cleaning system and is compatible with Alexa. This is a great choice for those who want an advanced robot vacuum with WiFi connectivity and superior cleaning capabilities.
The 960 is a circular robot equipped with two rubber brushrolls as well as three caster wheels to ensure stability. It weighs 3.9kg, making it easy to carry up and down the stairs. You can choose to purchase it with or without docking systems, depending on what you prefer. The docking station is important for keeping the Roomba running and plugged in when it isn't in use. It's a good way to keep the robot on fingertips and ready to clean when you need it.
iRobot designed the 960 to work well on floors with no floor and carpet. Its performance is impressive on hard surfaces, and it is able to easily get rid of pet hair. It is also adept at picking up large debris such as cereal and kitty-litter. It performs less well on carpets with a high pile. It can remove pet hair, as well as larger particles. But it struggles with smaller particles such as sand. Some of the sand gets stuck between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test with quaker oats, the 960 performed well and picked up the majority of the powder that was scattered. The robotic vacuum is able of maneuvering around a wide variety of obstacles and furniture, and the circular shape allows it to fit tightly under chair legs. The 960 is Alexa compatible and can be controlled with voice commands. It can be programmed to auto return to its charging station.
The 960 requires some maintenance. This includes regular replacement of the dust bin, filter and the spinning brush. The components need to be replaced every few months to ensure they are in good working order. Also, you should clean your dirt compartment sensors frequently. Maintaining these components in good shape will keep the Roomba running at peak performance and help it to last longer.
The 960 is a good robotic vacuum, but it has some shortcomings. It is fairly expensive, but worth the cost if are looking for a machine with outstanding cleaning performance. It is also packed with features that make it a great alternative for busy individuals. The iRobot app is simple 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 home decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba is the most advanced robotic cleaner in iRobot’s current line-up. The Roomba 980's comprehensive suite of navigation sensors allows it to navigate around and under furniture, and along edges. Cliff Detect stops it from falling down the stairs. Its multi-surface brushes grab dirt and debris from any kind of floor, and it accelerates debris to the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology captures the environment as it moves, forming visual landmarks to aid in recollecting the location it's been in and avoid hitting walls and objects. The camera also detects dirtier areas, prompting the Roomba to automatically boost suction power and move over the areas several times before moving on.
Users can designate digital Keep Out zones that prevent the Roomba entering areas in the home that they do not want it to enter. This feature was added to the app in October of 2019. This functionality is an excellent addition to the Roomba 980's impressive array of features and will prove useful for many consumers.
After a two hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 returns to its docking stations to recharge. This is the only robot of its kind with this feature. It lets you leave your robot to work while you are away for long durations. Remote control functionality in the app allows users to start, stop and schedule cleaning sessions anywhere in the world.
The Roomba app is fun to use and the interface is simple and easy to navigate. The main screen features a large clean button which can be activated by just a single click. The bottom row of icons gives quick access to settings such as cleaning preferences, weekly schedules, and much more. You can link the app to your smart assistant and make voice commands.
It may take a long time for the Roomba app to recognize the need for. It's a frustrating problem for the machine that relies on its smart controls. And it's particularly embarrassing given that the 980 costs so much.
The flagship model from iRobot the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its impressive cleaning power and battery life of two hours and a host of intelligent features make it a top pick among the top robot vacuums in the industry. However, its lack of a dedicated remote control and slow-running app mean it's not as flexible as the other models. The 980 is a great option for anyone who is looking for a powerful automated vacuum that will take the burden off of you. Make sure you put aside a bit more cash.