Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums cut down on the need for regular full-blown sweeping, they don't replace traditional plug-in models. To keep them in good working order clean the dust bins after every cleaning session. Clean the sensors and camera periodically. Replace filters and side brushes as required.
It has a huge bin, and an auto-empty system that is quiet. But budget robot vacuum gets caught in socks and cords, and it is unable to detect dirt 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 clean dust, dirt and other debris from unfinished floors. It also has a three-spoked spinning brush that picks up debris from wall edges and corners. The Roomba 694 does a great job of picking up pet hair. However, it can leave a few hairs in carpet fibers following multiple cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a great self-manipulator and doesn't get stuck in low furniture or cords. However, it's not equipped with the latest obstacle avoidance technology and its battery may be depleted before returning to its dock.
It's still a good option for those who want a basic robot vacuum that's easy to operate. It can be controlled manually using the 'Clean' "Dock" and the 'Spot Clean' button on its top cover or with voice commands relayed through your preferred voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and can respond to Siri commands using iOS Shortcuts.
Download the iRobot Home App on your smartphone or tablet to control the Roomba 694 remotely. The app lets you create customized cleaning schedules, and also monitor the robot's performance. The app can be used to cancel a cleaning task in progress if necessary. The iRobot app will also issue error alerts in the event that the robot encounters problems for instance, if he wedges himself into a crevice in furniture.
While the Roomba 694 does a great job of maneuvering itself around the house, it's not made to be used on narrow paths or stairs. It also does a terrible job of vacuuming low-pile carpet leaving a lot of hair clumps and tufts in its wake. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you might need to think about buying an alternative robot vacuum.
In contrast to the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter This model does not have an auto-emptying bin. The dirt compartment is moderate size, but it will need to be cleaned after every cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you review the record of your Roomba cleaning jobs. This includes the date and time they were performed, the method used to initiate them (app, scheduling or physical buttons on the robot), the duration and the status of completion.
The iRobot 694 is superior to the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly built, incurs lower annual costs, has a larger dustbin, charges faster, maneuvers over obstacles such as electrical cords without difficulty, and performs better on carpets with high piles and bare floors. The app that it comes with offers a suite of more advanced automation features. The Roomba 694 isn't as good as the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, though, which has a much bigger dirt compartment, lasts longer on a charge, and has physical boundaries to keep it out of certain areas.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums from iRobot. It has many features that make it stand out from other robots. These include advanced dirt detection technology as well as maps-saving technology. It also has a robust cleaning system that is compatible with Alexa. It is a fantastic choice for people who want a high-tech robot vacuum with excellent cleaning performance and WiFi-connectivity.
The 960 robot is a circular model with two brushrolls made of rubber for stability and three casters wheels. It is easy to raise and lower, as it weighs only 3.9kg. You can choose to purchase it with or without a docking system based on what you prefer. The docking station is essential for keeping the Roomba fully charged and connected when it isn't in use. It is a convenient method to keep the robot close at hand and ready to clean whenever you require it.
iRobot created 960 to work on carpet and bare floors. Its performance on hard surfaces is impressive and it is able to get rid of pet hair. It is also adept at picking up large debris like cat litter and cereal. It isn't as effective well on carpets with high piles, however. It is able to pick up pet hair, as well as some larger particles, but it is troublesome with smaller particles, such as sand. Some sand gets stuck between the brushes and 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 across a wide range of obstacles and furniture, and the circular shape allows it to fit snugly 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 a bit of maintenance which includes regular replacement of the filter, dust bin and the spinning brush. These parts should be replaced every couple of months to keep them in good condition. It is also recommended to clean your sensors in the dirt compartment regularly. Maintaining these components in good shape will keep the Roomba operating at its peak and will allow it to last longer.
The 960 has some shortcomings, but overall it is an excellent robotic vacuum. It is fairly expensive, but it is worth the cost if are looking for a machine with outstanding cleaning performance. It also has a wide range of features that make it a great choice for those with hectic lifestyles. The iRobot App is simple to use, and Roomba's schedule for cleaning can be set. It comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can match the Roomba to your decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba is the most advanced robotic cleaner available in iRobot's current line-up. Its extensive set of navigation sensors allow it to maneuver between furniture and along edges, and Cliff Detect prevents it from falling down the stairs. The multi-surface brushes can remove dirt and debris from every kind of floor, while moving debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology captures the environment when it moves, and creates visual landmarks that aid in recollecting where it's been and avoid bumping into walls and objects. The camera can also detect dirtier areas. This causes the Roomba to automatically increase its suction power and move over these zones several times before moving forward.
Users can set up digital Keep Out zones to stop the Roomba entering areas in the home that they don't want it to enter. This feature was added to the app in October 2019. This is a welcome addition to the already impressive set of features found on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a beneficial tool for a lot of consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning time The Roomba 980 will automatically returns to its docking station to recharge. It's the only robot in this category that has this feature, and it allows you to allow it to perform its task while you're gone for long periods of time. Remote control in the app enables users to start, stop and schedule cleaning sessions from anywhere in the world.
The Roomba App is easy to use and simple. The main screen is adorned with an enormous clean button that can be activated by a single touch, and the lower row of icons gives quick access to settings, such as cleaning preferences as well as a weekly schedule and much more. You can even link the app to your smart assistant of choice to make voice commands.
Sending a command via the app isn't always a quick affair, though it may take a while for Roomba to be able to recognize your request. It's a frustrating problem for a machine so dependent on its sophisticated controls. It's particularly egregious given that the 980 costs so much.
The Roomba 980, iRobot’s flagship model, is a formidable piece of machinery. Its high-powered cleaning power, long battery life of two hours, and intelligent features make it one of the top robot vacuums on the market. However, its absence of a dedicated remote control and slow-running app mean it's not as user-friendly as the other models. However, smart robot is a good choice for those looking for an automated vacuum that can take care of itself. Be prepared to spend a little more.