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 ensure they are in good condition, empty the dust bins after every cleaning session. Wipe down the camera and sensors frequently. Replace filters and side brushes as required.
It has a huge bin and an auto-empty that is quiet. Its obstacle avoidance remains tangled in cords and socks, and it misses dirt near baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694
The Roomba 694 robot vacuum is an entry level robot vacuum that utilizes dual roller brushes (one bristle and one rubber) to remove dust, dirt and other debris from floors that are not covered. It also comes with three-spoked rotating brushes that can remove debris from wall edges and corners. The Roomba 694 is pretty efficient in removing pet hair, though it may leave some in the carpet fibers if you let it go through several cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a great self-manipulator, and doesn't get caught in furniture that isn't high or around cords. However, it doesn't come equipped with the latest obstacle avoidance technology and its battery may be depleted before returning to its dock.
This is a good choice when you're looking for an easy-to-use robot cleaner that is easy to use. You can control it manually using the 'Clean "Dock," and the 'Spot Clean' button on its top cover, or by using voice commands transmitted through your favorite voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa, Google Assistant and can follow Siri commands using iOS Shortcuts.
Download the iRobot Home App on your tablet or smartphone to control the Roomba 694 remotely. The app lets you create custom cleaning schedules as well as track the robot's condition. You can also use the app to end cleaning jobs that are in progress, if needed. The iRobot Home app will also 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 navigating itself around the house, it is not designed for stairs or narrow pathways. It does not do a good job cleaning carpets with low pile leaving behind numerous hair clumps and tufts. You may want to choose a different robot vacuum for flooring with low pile in your home.
This model, unlike the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, does not have a bin that automatically empties itself. The dirt compartment is a moderate size, but it will need to be cleaned after every cleaning session. The iRobot Home app lets you view a History of the cleaning tasks that Roomba has completed as well as their time and date, how they were initiated (app or scheduling, or with the physical buttons on the robot) as well as their duration and the status of their completion.
The iRobot 694 is better than the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly constructed, incurs lower annual costs and comes with a larger dust bin and charges faster, can maneuver over obstacles like electrical cords with less difficulty, and performs better on both carpets with high piles and bare floors. The software that comes with it offers an array of more advanced automation features. The Roomba 694 isn't quite as efficient as the Shark IQ robotic cleaner, which has a larger dirt compartment, can last longer on a single charge and is equipped with physical boundaries that block it from certain rooms.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums made by iRobot. It comes with a variety of features that set it apart from other robots. These include advanced dirt detection technology as well as map-saving technologies. It also comes with a powerful cleaning system that is compatible with Alexa. It is an excellent option for those looking for an advanced robot vacuum that has outstanding cleaning capabilities and WiFi connectivity.
The 960 robot is a circular one that has two rubber brushrolls to provide stability and three caster wheels. It weighs 3.9kg, making it easy to move up and down the stairs. You can buy it with or without docking systems based on the features you prefer. The docking station is essential for keeping the Roomba fully charged and connected when it isn't in use. It's a great way to keep the robot on fingertips and ready to clean when you require it.
iRobot created 960 to work on carpets and bare floors. Its performance is exceptional on hard surfaces, and it can effortlessly remove pet hair. It also does a good job of picking up large debris like cereal and cat litter. It doesn't perform as well on carpets with high piles, however. It can pick up pet hair, as well as some larger particles, but it is troublesome with smaller particles, such as sand. Some of the sand gets caught between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test with the oats of quaker, the 960 performed well in capturing the bulk of the powder. The robotic vacuum is capable of maneuvering 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 via voice commands. It can be programmed to auto return to its charging station.
The 960 requires a bit of maintenance, including regular replacement of the filter, dust bin, and spinning brush. These components should be replaced every few months to keep them in good condition. You should also clean the dirt compartment sensors on a regular basis. Keeping these parts in good working order will keep the Roomba operating at its peak and make it last longer.
The 960 has some issues, but overall it is a great robotic vacuum. It's costly however, it is worth it if you are looking for an item that cleans well. It is also packed with features that make it an ideal option for busy people. The iRobot App is easy to use and Roomba's cleaning schedule is set. It is also available in a variety of finishes and colors so you can match it with your decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba 980 is the most advanced robotic vacuum available in the current line-up of iRobot's. Its extensive set of navigation sensors allows it to navigate under and around furniture and along edges, and Cliff Detect prevents it from falling down stairs. Its multi-surface brushes grab dirt and debris off any kind of floor, and moving debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM captures the surroundings as it moves. It creates visual landmarks that aid in identifying its position and avoid hitting walls and other objects. The camera also detects dirtier areas, prompting the Roomba to automatically increase suction power and traverse the areas repeatedly before moving on.
A new feature pushed into the app in October 2019 allows users to create digital Keep Out Zones that keep the Roomba from entering areas of the home that they would prefer to remain inaccessible. This functionality is an important addition to the already-strong suite of features on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a beneficial device for many people.
After a two-hour cleaning session the Roomba 980 returns to its docking station to recharge. It's the only robot in this class to have this feature, and it lets you to allow it to perform its task even when you're away for extended periods of time. The app's remote control feature allows you to begin, stop, and schedule cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.
The Roomba App is simple to use and easy to understand. The main screen is adorned with an enormous clean button that is activated by a single touch and the lower row of icons gives easy access to settings like cleaning preferences and a weekly schedule and more. The app can be linked with your smart assistant to make voice commands.
Sending a command via the app isn't always an instant affair, though, and it can take a while for Roomba to recognize your request. It's a frustrating problem for an appliance that is so dependent on its sophisticated controls. It's particularly egregious given that the 980 costs so much.
The flagship model from iRobot, the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of equipment. Its serious cleaning power and battery life of two hours and suite of smart features make it a top choice among the top robot vacuums on the market. It's less versatile than others because it doesn't have an app that is specifically designed and remote control. The 980 is a great option for those seeking a powerful, automated vacuum that takes care of itself. Just be prepared to save a bit of cash.