Robot Vacuum Reviews
Robot vacuums can reduce the need to sweep regularly however, they cannot replace plug-in models. To keep them in top condition requires emptying the trash bin after every cleaning session, wiping down the cameras and sensors periodically, and replacing filters and side brushes when needed.
It comes with a large bin and an auto-empty that is quiet. But its obstacle avoidance still is entangled in socks and cords, and it is unable to detect dirt that is 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. The Roomba 694 also comes with a rotating brush that is able to remove debris from the corners and walls edges. The Roomba 694 is fairly effective at picking up pet hair, although it can leave some behind in the carpet fibers, if you let it go through several cleaning cycles.
The 694 is a good self-manipulator, and doesn't get caught in low furniture or cords. It does not have advanced obstacle-avoidance technologies and the battery may drain before it returns to dock.
This is a good choice when you're looking for an affordable robot cleaner that is easy to use. It can be controlled manually using the 'Clean "Dock," and the 'Spot Clean' button on the top of its cover or by using voice commands transmitted through your favorite 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 tablet or smartphone to manage the Roomba 694 remotely. The app lets you create customized cleaning schedules and also monitor the robot's performance. The app is able to end a cleaning project in progress if necessary. The iRobot app can also issue error alerts in the event that the robot encounters a problem for instance, if he is pushed into a crevice in furniture.
The Roomba 694 is a good vacuum cleaner however, it's not designed to navigate narrow pathways or stairs. self vacuum does a terrible job of vacuuming low-pile carpet leaving a number of tufts and clumps of hair behind. You might want to consider a different robot vacuum if you have low-pile flooring in your home.
In contrast to the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter This model does not have an automatic bin for emptying. Its internal dirt compartment is a moderately-sized one however, you'll have empty it at the end of every cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you look back at the history of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the time and date they were performed, the method used to initiate them (app or scheduling buttons on the robot), the duration and the finished status.
The iRobot 694 is superior to the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly constructed, incurs lower cost of operation and comes with a larger dust bin and charges faster, can maneuver over obstacles such as electrical cords with less difficulty and performs better on carpet with a high pile and bare floors. The software that comes with it offers a suite 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, lasts for longer on a single charge and comes equipped with physical boundaries that block it from certain areas.
Roomba 960 from iRobot
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums made by iRobot. It is equipped with many features that set it apart from other robots. These include advanced dirt detection technology as well as mapping-saving technologies. It has an efficient vacuum system and is compatible Alexa. This is a great option for those looking for a high-tech robot vacuum that has WiFi connectivity and outstanding cleaning capabilities.
The 960 is a circular robot equipped with two brushrolls made of rubber and three caster wheels for stability. It weighs 3.9kg, making it easy to move up and down stairs. It is available with a docking station or without it, depending on your preferences. The docking station is essential for keeping the Roomba charged and plugged in even when it's not in use. The docking station is a convenient and simple way to keep your robot tidy and fully charged when it's not working.
iRobot designed 960 to work on carpet and floors that are not bare. Its performance on hard surfaces is remarkable and it's able to clean up pet hair. It also excels at picking up large debris like kitty litter and cereal. It isn't as effective well on carpets with high piles however. It can remove pet hair, and larger particles. But it is unable to handle smaller particles such as sand. Some of the sand is stuck between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test using quaker oats the 960 did well and picked up the majority of the powder. The vacuum's robotic design is capable of maneuvering through a variety of furniture and obstacles, and its circular design permits 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 return automatically to its charging station.
The 960 requires a bit of maintenance that includes regular replacement of the filter, dust bin and the spinning brush. It is recommended to replace these components every couple of months or so to ensure that they are in good shape. You should also clean the sensors in the dirt compartment on a regular basis. In keeping these parts in good working order will keep the Roomba functioning at its best and will allow it to last longer.
The 960 has a few flaws, but overall, it is a top robotic vacuum. It's costly however, it is worth it if your goal is a robot that can clean well. It also comes with a range of features that make it a great option for people with busy life. The iRobot App is simple to use and the Roomba's schedule for cleaning can be set. It is available in a variety of finishes and colors, so that you can make it a part of your decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba 980 is the most sophisticated robotic vacuum in the current lineup of iRobot's. Its full suite of navigation sensors enables it to move under and around furniture, and along edges, while Cliff Detect helps to prevent it from falling down the stairs. The multi-surface brushes sift dirt and debris off any kind of floor, and moving debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology records the surrounding as it moves, forming visual landmarks to help it remember the location it's been in and avoid hitting objects and walls. The camera is also able to detect areas with dirtier surfaces. This causes the Roomba to automatically increase its suction power and then move over these areas repeatedly before moving on.
A new feature added into the app in October 2019 allows users to create digital Keep Out Zones that stop the Roomba from entering rooms that they would prefer to remain inaccessible. This is a great addition to the Roomba 980's impressive array of features and will prove useful to many people.
After a two-hour cleaning session The Roomba 980 will automatically returns to its docking station to recharge. This is the only robot of its kind that comes with this feature. It allows you to leave your robot at work when you're away for long periods of time. Remote control functionality in the app enables users to start and stop cleaning sessions anywhere in the world.
The Roomba App is easy to use and simple. The main screen features a large clean button which can be activated by a single touch. The bottom row of icons gives easy access to settings like cleaning preferences, weekly schedules and more. It is possible to connect the app with your smart assistant to issue voice commands.
It can take a while for the Roomba app to recognize a command. It's a problem that frustrates the machine that relies on its intelligent controls. It's particularly egregious when you consider that the 980 is priced so much.
The flagship model from iRobot, the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its powerful cleaning capabilities and battery life of two hours, and smart features make it among the top robot vacuums on the market. It's not as versatile as some of its competitors because it doesn't have an app that is specifically designed and remote control. The 980 is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a powerful, automated vacuum that takes the burden off of you. Be sure to put aside a bit more money.