Robot Vacuum Reviews
Robot vacuums can reduce the need to sweep regularly, but they cannot substitute models with plug-ins. To keep them in good shape take the dust bins out after every cleaning session. Clean the camera and sensors regularly. robotvacuummops and side brushes when required.
It comes with a decent-sized container and an auto-empty. But its obstacle avoidance still gets caught in cords and socks, and it doesn't catch dirt that is close to baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694"
The Roomba 694 robot vacuum is an entry-level robot vacuum that utilizes dual roller brushes (one bristle, one rubber) to remove dust, dirt and debris from bare flooring. The Roomba 694 comes with a rotating brush that is able to remove debris from walls and corners. The Roomba 694 is fairly effective at picking up pet hair, though it can leave some behind in the carpet fibers if you let it go through multiple cleaning cycles.
The 694 does an adequate job of maneuvering itself, and it isn't a problem to maneuver around obstacles like low furniture or cords. It's not equipped with the latest obstacle avoidance technology and its battery could run out before it returns to its dock.
It's still a good option if you want an affordable robot vacuum that is easy to operate. You can manually control it using the 'Clean' 'Dock', and 'Spot Clean' buttons on its top cover, or by using voice commands transmitted through your favorite voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it can also follow Siri commands from 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 allows you to make custom cleaning schedules and monitor the robot's condition. You can also use the app to cancel the cleaning task in progress, if you need to. The iRobot Home app will also send out error alerts when the robot is faced with an issue, such as if it is pushed into an opening in furniture.
The Roomba 694 is a good vacuum cleaner, but it's not designed to navigate narrow or steep slopes. It doesn't do a good job vacuuming low pile carpets, leaving behind many tufts and hair clumps. If you have a lot of low-pile carpet in your home, you may think about using a different robotic vacuum.
This model, unlike the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, doesn't have an automatic emptying bin itself. Its dirt compartment inside is a moderately-sized one, but you will have empty it at the end of 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 completed, the method used to initiate them (app, scheduling or physical buttons on the robot) along with the duration of the job and the status of completion.
The iRobot is superior to the Coredy R550, because it is more sturdy and durable, has lower recurring costs and a larger dustbin. It is also more efficient in charging, is able to maneuver around obstacles such as electrical cords and is more efficient on floors that are bare and on rugs with high pile. Its companion app provides a more advanced suite of automation capabilities and features, too. The Roomba 694 does not match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, though, which comes with a larger dirt compartment, lasts longer on a charge, and includes physical boundary strips to prevent it from certain rooms.
Roomba 960 from iRobot
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums from iRobot. It has a number of characteristics that differentiate it from other robots, such as advanced dirt detection and map-saving technology. It also has a powerful cleaning system and is compatible with Alexa. It is a fantastic option for those who want a high-tech robot vacuum with outstanding cleaning capabilities and WiFi connectivity.
The 960 is a circular robot with two rubber brushrolls and three caster wheels for stability. It weighs 3.9kg which makes it easy to move up and down stairs. It can be purchased with docking station or without, depending on your preference. The docking station keeps the Roomba connected and charged even when it's not in use. It is a convenient way to keep the robot on the ready to clean when you require it.
iRobot created the 960 to be able to work on floors with no floor and carpet. Its performance is impressive on hard surfaces, and it's able to easily get rid of pet hair. It also excels at picking up large debris like cat litter and cereal. It performs less well on carpets with a high pile. It is able to pick up pet hair and larger particles. However, it has trouble 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 and picked up the majority of the powder that was scattered. The robot vacuum is capable of maneuvering around a wide variety of obstacles and furniture, and the circular shape allows it to fit snugly under the legs of chairs. The 960 is compatible with Alexa, and can be activated using voice commands. It can be programmed to automatically return to its charging station.
The 960 requires some maintenance. This includes regular replacement of the dust bin, filter, and the spinning brush. These components should be replaced every couple of months to keep them in good condition. You should also clean the dirt compartment sensors on a regular basis. In keeping these parts in good working order will keep the Roomba functioning at its best and help it to last longer.
The 960 has some flaws, but overall, it is an excellent robotic vacuum. It's expensive, but it is worth the money if you are looking for a robot that has exceptional cleaning capabilities. It also comes with features that make it a good choice for busy people. The iRobot App is easy to use and Roomba's cleaning schedule can be set. It is available in a variety of colors and finishes so that you can match the Roomba with your home decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba is the most sophisticated robotic cleaner in the iRobot's current line-up. The Roomba 980's complete suite of navigation sensors allows it to navigate under and around furniture, as well as along edges. Cliff Detect stops it from falling down the stairs. The multi-surface brushes sift dirt and debris from any kind of floor, and moving debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology can record the surroundings as it moves, creating visual landmarks to help it remember the location it's been in and avoid bumping into objects and walls. The camera also can detect areas that are dirty. This triggers the Roomba to automatically increase its suction power and then move over these areas repeatedly before moving forward.
Users can set up digital Keep Out zones that prevent the Roomba accessing areas of the home that they do not want it to access. This feature was added to the app by October 2019. This functionality is an excellent addition to the Roomba 980's impressive set of features, and will prove beneficial for a lot of consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 returns to its docking stations to recharge. It's the only robot in this class to have this feature, and it allows you to allow it to perform its task when you're away for extended periods of time. The app's remote control functionality lets you start and stop cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.
The Roomba App is simple to use and intuitive. 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, such as cleaning preferences as well as a weekly schedule and much more. It is possible to connect the app with your smart assistant to make voice commands.
The ability to issue a command through the app isn't always a quick process, however it may take a while for Roomba to recognize your request. This is a major issue for an appliance that is so dependent on its sophisticated controls. And it's particularly embarrassing given that the 980 costs so much.
The Roomba 980, iRobot’s flagship model is a powerful piece of equipment. Its serious cleaning power, two-hour battery life, and a host of intelligent features make it a top pick among the top robot vacuums available. However, its absence of a remote control that is specifically designed for it and slow-running app mean it's not as flexible as the other models. However, the 980 is a good choice for those looking for an automated vacuum that takes care of itself. Be prepared to pay some more.