Robot vacuums may reduce the frequency of cleaning however they are not able to replace plug-in models. To ensure they are in good working order take the dust bins out after each cleaning session. Clean the camera and sensors frequently. Replace filters and side brushes as needed.
It comes with a decent-sized container and a quiet auto-empty. But its obstacle avoidance still is entangled in socks and cords, and it is unable to detect dirt near baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694
The Roomba 694 robot vacuum is an entry-level robot vacuum that uses dual roller brushes (one bristle and one rubber) to pick up dust, dirt and other debris from flooring that is not bare. It also comes with a three-spoked spinning brush that removes debris from the wall's corners and edges. The Roomba 694 is pretty efficient in removing pet hair, though it may leave some in the carpet fibers if you let it run through several cleaning cycles.
The 694 does an adequate job at maneuvering itself and does not get stuck on things like cords or furniture that aren't high enough. However, it's not equipped with advanced obstacle-avoidance technology and its battery could run out before it returns to its dock.
It's still a great choice if you want a basic robot vacuum that's easy to operate. You can control it manually by pressing the 'Clean "Dock," and the 'Spot Clean' button on its top cover, or using voice commands that are relayed to your favorite voice assistant. It's compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it can follow Siri commands from Shortcuts in iOS.
Download the iRobot Home App on your tablet or smartphone to manage the Roomba 694 remotely. The app allows you to design custom cleaning schedules for your needs and track the robot's health. You can also use the app to cancel a cleaning job in progress, should you require it. 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 a great job of maneuvering itself around the house, it is not made to be used on narrow paths or stairs. It is not able to do a great job of vacuuming carpets with low piles, leaving behind many hair clumps and tufts. If you have lots of carpet with low pile in your home, you might need to think about buying using a different robotic vacuum.
Contrary to the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter, this model does not have a self-emptying bin. The dirt compartment inside is not large however, you'll need empty it after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you view a record of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the time and date they were performed and the method used to initiate them (app or scheduling buttons on the robot) as well as the duration and the status of completion.
The iRobot is better than the Coredy R550, because it is more solidly constructed and has lower recurring costs, and a bigger dustbin. It also charges faster, is able to maneuver around obstacles like electrical cords, and performs better both on bare floors and on rugs with high pile. Its companion app provides an enhanced set of automation capabilities, too. The Roomba 694 isn't as effective as the Shark IQ robotic cleaner, which has a bigger dirt compartment, can last longer on a single charge and is equipped with physical boundary strips that block it from certain areas.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums from iRobot. It has several features that distinguish it from other robots, including advanced dirt detection and a map-saving technology. It comes with an efficient vacuum system that is compatible with Alexa. It is a great option for those looking for a high-tech robot vacuum with outstanding cleaning capabilities and WiFi connectivity.
The 960 robot is a circular one that has two rubber brushrolls for stability and three casters wheels. It is easy to lift and lower since it weighs just 3.9kg. You can purchase it with or without docking system based on what you prefer. The docking station keeps the Roomba plugged in and charged even when it's not being used. The docking station is an efficient and easy way to keep your robot in good condition and powered when it's not.
iRobot created the 960 to be able to work on floors with no floor and carpet. Its performance on hard surfaces is remarkable, and it can easily get rid of pet hair. It also does an excellent job of removing large amounts of debris, such as Kitty litter and cereal. It doesn't perform as well on high-pile carpet, however. It is able to pick up pet hair and some larger particles, but it has trouble with smaller particles, such as sand. 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. The vacuum's robotic design is able of maneuvering across a wide range of obstacles and furniture, and the circular shape allows it to fit tightly under the legs of chairs. The 960 is Alexa compatible and can be controlled via voice commands. It can be programmed to automatically return to its charging station.
The 960 requires some maintenance that includes regular replacement of the dust bin, filter and the spinning brush. It is recommended to replace these components every couple of months or so to ensure they are in good working order. It is also recommended to clean your sensors in the dirt compartment regularly. These components will make the Roomba perform at its best and last longer if they are kept in good working order.
The 960 is a good robot vacuum, but it is not perfect. It's quite expensive, but it is worth the investment if you are looking for a robot with outstanding cleaning performance. It also comes with a range of features that make it a great alternative for those with busy lives. The iRobot app is easy to use and Roomba is also easy to use. Roomba can be scheduled to clean at certain times. It comes in a variety of finishes and colors so you can match the Roomba to your decor.
Roomba 960 from iRobot
The Roomba 980 is the most sophisticated robotic vacuum in the current lineup of iRobot's. The Roomba 980's complete suite of navigation sensors allow it to navigate under and around furniture, and along edges. Cliff Detect helps to prevent it from falling down the stairs. The multi-surface brushes can remove dirt and debris off any kind of floor, and accelerating debris to the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology records the surrounding as it moves, forming visual landmarks that aid in recollecting where it's been, and to avoid hitting objects and walls. The camera also can detect areas with dirtier surfaces. This triggers the Roomba to automatically boost its suction power and move over these zones multiple times before moving forward.
Users can designate digital Keep Out zones to prevent the Roomba accessing areas of the home that they don't want it to be able to enter. This feature was added to the app by October, 2019. This is an excellent addition to the already impressive set of features available on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a useful tool for many consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 comes back to its docking stations to recharge. It's the only robot in this class to have this feature, and allows users to let it to do its work when you're away for long periods of time. Remote control functionality in the app allows users to start and stop cleaning sessions from anywhere in the world.
The Roomba app is a joy to use and the interface is simple and intuitive. The main screen features an enormous clean button that can be activated by a single touch. The bottom row of icons allows quick access to settings like cleaning preferences, weekly schedules, and more. You can link the app to your smart assistant and issue voice commands.
It can take a while for the Roomba app to recognize the need for. It's a frustrating problem for a machine so dependent on its intelligent controls. It's particularly egregious given that the 980 costs so much.
As iRobot's flagship model the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its high-powered cleaning power, long battery life of two hours, and intelligent features make it among the top robot vacuums available. It's not as versatile as some of its competitors because it doesn't have a dedicated app and remote control. The 980 is a fantastic option for those seeking a powerful, automated vacuum that will take care of itself. Just be prepared to save a bit of money.