Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums cut down on the need for periodic full-blown sweeping, they can't replace the traditional plug-in models. To keep them in good condition clean the dust bins after each cleaning session. Clean review and sensors frequently. Replace filters and side brushes as needed.
It has a large bin, and an auto-empty system that is quiet. But its obstacle avoidance still gets caught with cords and socks and it misses 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, the other rubber) to remove dust, dirt and other debris from floors that are not covered. It also has a three-spoked spinning brush that removes debris from wall edges and corners. The Roomba 694 is fairly effective at picking up pet hair, but it can leave some behind in the carpet fibers, if you let it run through several cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a good self-manipulator that doesn't get stuck in low furniture or cords. It doesn't have the most advanced obstacle-avoidance technology, and the battery can run out before returning to the dock.
This is a great option to consider if you're in search of an affordable robot cleaner that's easy to use. It can be controlled manually using the 'Clean' "Dock" and the 'Spot Clean' buttons on its top cover, or with voice commands relayed through your preferred voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and can follow Siri commands through iOS Shortcuts.
You can also manage the Roomba 694 remotely from any place by downloading the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or tablet. The app allows you to design custom cleaning schedules for your needs and also monitor the robot's performance. You can also use the app to end a cleaning job in progress, if needed. The iRobot app can also issue error alerts if the robot has a problem for instance, if he gets stuck in an opening in the furniture.
The Roomba 694 is a decent vacuum cleaner, but it's not designed to navigate stairs or narrow paths. It also does a terrible job of vacuuming carpets with low pile leaving a lot of hair clumps and tufts behind. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you may think about using a different robotic vacuum.
This model is different from the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, doesn't have a bin that automatically empties itself. Its dirt compartment inside is a moderately-sized one however, you'll have to empty it after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you view a record of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the date and time they were performed as well as the method used to start them (app or scheduling buttons on the robot) along with the duration of the job and the finished status.
The iRobot 694 is better than 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 the most advanced set of automation capabilities as well. The Roomba 694 doesn't match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, however, it features a bigger dirt compartment, lasts longer on a charge, and comes with physical boundaries to prevent it from certain rooms.
Roomba 960 by iRobot
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums from iRobot. It has several features that distinguish it from other robots, such as advanced dirt detection and a map-saving technology. It also has a robust cleaning system and is compatible with Alexa. It is an excellent choice for people who want an advanced robot vacuum that has excellent cleaning performance and WiFi-connectivity.
The 960 robot is a circular one that has two rubber brushrolls to ensure stability, and three caster wheels. It weighs 3.9kg, making it easy to lift up and down steps. You can purchase it with or without docking systems based on what you prefer. The docking station is essential to keep the Roomba fully charged and connected when it isn't in use. It is a convenient way to keep the robot close at hand and ready to clean whenever you need it.
iRobot designed the 960 to work well on floors with no floor and carpet. Its performance on hard surfaces is impressive and it's able to remove pet hair. It also excels in removing large particles such as cereal and kitty-litter. It is less effective on carpets with a high pile. It can pick up pet hair as well as larger debris, but it struggles with smaller particles like sand. Some of the sand gets caught between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test using Quaker Oats, the 960 performed well in capturing the bulk of the powder. The robot vacuum can move over obstacles and furniture. Its circular design also allows it to fit under the legs of chairs. The 960 is compatible with Alexa and can be activated with voice commands. It can be programmed to automatically return to its charging station.
The 960 requires some upkeep which 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 working order. It is also recommended to clean your sensors in the dirt compartment regularly. These parts will help the Roomba perform at its best and last longer if they are kept in good shape.
The 960 has some issues, but overall it is a top robotic vacuum. It's costly but it's worth it if your goal is a robot that can clean well. It is also loaded with features that make it a good option for busy people. The iRobot app is simple to use and the Roomba can be scheduled to clean at certain times. It comes in a range of finishes and colors to allow you to make it a part of your decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba is among the most advanced robotic cleaner in iRobot’s current lineup. Its full suite of navigation sensors allow it to move between furniture and along edges, while Cliff Detect keeps it from falling down the stairs. Its multi-surface brushes grab dirt and debris from any kind of floor, while accelerating debris to the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology records the surrounding as it moves, forming visual landmarks to aid in recollecting the location it's been in and avoid bumping into walls and objects. The camera also identifies dirty areas, which triggers the Roomba to automatically increase suction power and traverse these zones multiple 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 enter. This feature was added to the app by October of 2019. This feature is a fantastic addition to the Roomba 980's already impressive set of features, and will prove to be beneficial for a lot of consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 goes back to its docking stations to recharge. It is the only robot in its class that comes with this feature. It lets you leave your robot at work even when you are away for long durations. Remote control in the app enables users to start cleaning, stop and schedule sessions anywhere in the world.
The Roomba App is simple to use and simple. The main screen has the big clean button that can be activated with a single tap, and the lower row of icons gives easy access to settings, such as cleaning preferences as well as a weekly schedule and much more. You can even link the app to your personal assistant to issue voice commands.
It can take a while for the Roomba app to recognize a command. It's a frustrating flaw in a machine that is so heavily reliant on its sophisticated controls, and it seems especially awry considering that the 980 is incredibly expensive.
The Roomba 980, iRobot’s flagship model, is a formidable piece of equipment. Its impressive cleaning power and battery life of two hours and suite of smart features make it an ideal choice among the top robot vacuums in the industry. It's not as versatile as some of its competitors due to the lack of an app that is specifically designed and remote control. The 980 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a powerful, vacuum that can take care of itself. Be prepared to pay an extra amount.