Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums can reduce the need for regular, full-blown sweeping, they don't substitute for traditional plug-in models. To keep them in good condition clean the dust bins after every cleaning session. Wipe down the camera and sensors frequently. Replace filters and side brushes when needed.
It comes with a large bin, and an auto-empty system that is quiet. However, its obstacle avoidance gets caught in cords and socks, and it misses dirt that is close to baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694
The Roomba 694 robot vacuum is an entry-level robot vacuum that has dual roller brushes (one bristle, one rubber) to pick up dust, dirt and debris from floors that are not covered. It also has three-spoked spinning brushes that can remove debris from the wall's edges and corners. The Roomba 694 does a great job of removing pet hair. However, it may leave some hairs in the carpet fibers after multiple cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a great self-manipulator that doesn't get stuck in furniture that isn't level or with cords. It doesn't come with advanced obstacle-avoidance systems and the battery may be drained before it can return to dock.
This is a good choice if you're looking for a basic robot cleaner that's easy to use. You can control it manually using the 'Clean 'Dock', and the 'Spot Clean' buttons on its top cover or using voice commands that are relayed to your favorite voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it can follow Siri commands in iOS Shortcuts.
You can also control the Roomba 694 remotely from any location by downloading the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or tablet. The app lets you create custom cleaning schedules as well as monitor the robot's status. You can also use the app to cancel cleaning jobs that are in progress, if needed. robot vacuum cleaner on sale can send out error alerts when the robot is faced with an issue, such as if it wedges itself into the crevices of furniture.
While the Roomba 694 does an excellent job of maneuvering itself around the house, it is not made to be used on narrow paths or stairs. It doesn't perform well at vacuuming carpets with low piles leaving behind numerous tufts and hair clumps. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you might need to think about buying using a different robotic vacuum.
Unlike the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter, this model does not have a self-emptying bin. The dirt bin is of a moderate size, however it must be emptied after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you look back at the record of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the date and time they were executed, the method used to initiate them (app, scheduling or physical buttons on the robot) along with the duration of the job and the completed status.
The iRobot is better than the Coredy R550, because it is more solidly constructed and has lower ongoing costs, and a bigger dustbin. It is also faster to charge, and can maneuver over obstacles such as electrical cords and is more efficient on plain floors as well as on rugs with high pile. The app that comes with it offers an array of more advanced automation features. The Roomba 694 is not as effective as the Shark IQ robotic cleaner, which has a larger dirt compartment, lasts for longer on a single charge, and comes equipped with physical boundaries that keep it out certain rooms.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 robot vacuum is one of iRobot's most advanced models. It has several features that distinguish it from other robots, such as advanced dirt detection and a map-saving technology. It also has a powerful cleaning system that is compatible with Alexa. It is an excellent option for those looking for an ultra-modern robot vacuum with outstanding cleaning capabilities and WiFi connectivity.
The 9960 is a round robot with two rubber brushrolls and three caster wheels to ensure stability. It weighs 3.9kg making it simple to carry up and down stairs. You can choose to purchase it with or without docking system based on the features you prefer. The docking station is important to keep the Roomba fully charged and connected when it is not working. It's a good way to keep the robot on hand and ready to clean whenever you require it.
iRobot created 960 to work on carpets and floors that are not bare. Its performance is outstanding on hard surfaces, and it can easily remove pet hair. It also excels at picking up large debris like kitty litter and cereal. It does not perform as well on high pile carpet. It is able to pick up pet hair and some larger debris, but struggles with smaller particles like sand. Some sand gets caught 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. The robotic vacuum can maneuver around a wide variety of furniture and obstacles and the circular shape allows it to be tucked away 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 which includes regular replacement of the filter, dust bin and the spinning brush. The components need to be replaced every few months to keep them in good shape. Also, you should clean your sensors in the dirt compartment regularly. These parts will help the Roomba perform at its peak and last longer if they are kept in good shape.
The 960 has some shortcomings, but overall it is an excellent robotic vacuum. It's quite expensive, but worth the investment if you are looking for a robot that has exceptional cleaning capabilities. It is also loaded with features that make it a good option for busy people. The iRobot App is easy to use and the Roomba's cleaning schedule can be set. It's also available in a variety of finishes and colors so you can match it to your home decor.
iRobot Roomba 980
The Roomba 980 is the most advanced robotic vacuum available in the current lineup of iRobot's. Its extensive set of navigation sensors allow it to move under and around furniture and along edges, and Cliff Detect keeps it from falling down stairs. Its multi-surface rubber brush brushes let dirt slide off and collect it from any flooring type and then push debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology records the surrounding as it moves, creating visual landmarks that aid in recollecting where it's been, and to avoid hitting walls and objects. The camera can also detect areas that are dirty. robot vacuum cleaner on sale causes the Roomba to automatically increase the suction power of the room, and then traverse these zones repeatedly before moving on.
A new feature pushed to the app by October 2019 lets users create digital Keep Out Zones to stop the Roomba from entering areas of the home in which they would like it to remain unaffected. This functionality is an important addition to the already impressive 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 returns to its docking stations to recharge. It is the only robot in its class that has this feature. It lets you leave your robot to work even when you are away for long durations. The app's remote control functionality allows you to begin or stop cleaning sessions from anywhere in the world.
The Roomba app is enjoyable to use and the interface is straightforward and intuitive. The main screen has a big clean button that can be activated with a single tap and the bottom row of icons offers quick access to settings like cleaning preferences, a weekly schedule, and much more. You can link the app with your smart assistant to issue voice commands.

Issuing a command from the app isn't always an instant affair, though it could take some time for the Roomba to recognize your request. It's a frustrating problem for a machine so dependent on its intelligent controls. And it's especially egregious when you consider that the 980 is priced so much.
As the flagship model of iRobot the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its high-powered cleaning power and long battery life of up to two hours, and clever features make it one of the top robot vacuums on the market. It's not as versatile as others due to the lack of an app specifically designed for it and remote control. The 980 is an excellent option for those seeking a powerful, automated vacuum that will take care of itself. Just be prepared to save a bit of cash.