Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums reduce the need for regular, full-blown sweeping, they can't replace the traditional plug-in models. To keep them in good condition take the dust bins out after each cleaning session. Wipe down the sensors and camera periodically. Replace filters and side brushes when needed.
It comes with a decent-sized container and an auto-empty. But its obstacle avoidance still is entangled in socks and cords, and it misses dirt that is close to baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694"
The Roomba 694 robot vacuum is an entry level robot vacuum that uses dual roller brushes (one bristle, one rubber) to remove dirt, dust and debris from flooring that is not bare. It also comes with three-spoked rotating brushes that picks up debris from the wall's corners and edges. The Roomba 694 does a great job of picking up pet hair. However, it could leave a few hairs in carpet fibers after multiple cleaning cycles.
The 694 does a decent job at maneuvering itself, and it does not get stuck on things like low furniture or cords. It doesn't have the most advanced obstacle-avoidance systems, and the battery can be drained before it can return to dock.
It's still a great choice for those who want an inexpensive robot vacuum that's simple to operate. You can control it manually 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, Google Assistant and can respond to Siri commands using iOS Shortcuts.
You can also control the Roomba 694 remotely from any place by downloading the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or tablet. The app lets you create custom cleaning schedules and also monitor the robot's performance. The app is able to end a cleaning project in progress, if needed. The iRobot Home app can send out error alerts when the robot encounters a problem like when it is pushed into an opening in furniture.
The Roomba 694 is a decent vacuum cleaner however it's not made to use narrow pathways or stairs. It also does a lousy job of vacuuming carpets with low pile, leaving many tufts and clumps of hair left behind. If you have lots of carpet with low pile 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 a bin that automatically empties itself. The dirt compartment is a moderate size, however it must be emptied after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home app lets you look back at the history of your Roomba's cleaning tasks as well as their time and date, the method by which they were initiated (app or scheduling, or with the physical buttons on the robot), their duration, and the status of their completion.
The iRobot is better than the Coredy R550, because it is more solidly constructed, has lower recurring costs and a larger dustbin. It is also faster to charge, and can maneuver over obstacles such as electrical cords and is more efficient both on bare floors and on high-pile rug. The companion app comes with an enhanced set of automation features as well. The Roomba 694 doesn't match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, however, it comes with a larger dirt compartment and lasts longer on a charge, and comes with physical boundaries to prevent it from certain areas.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot vacuums from iRobot. It is equipped with many features that set it apart from other robots. These include advanced dirt detection technology as well as maps-saving technology. It comes with an efficient vacuum system and is compatible Alexa. It is an excellent choice for people who want an ultra-modern robot vac uum with excellent cleaning performance and WiFi-connectivity.
The 960 robot is a circular robot with two brushrolls made of rubber to ensure stability, and three caster wheels. It weighs 3.9kg, making it easy to carry up and down the stairs. It is available with docking station or without it, depending on your preference. The docking station keeps the Roomba connected and charged even when it's not in use. It's a good way to keep the robot close at hand and ready to clean whenever you need it.
iRobot designed the 960 to work well on both bare floors and carpet. Its performance on hard surfaces is remarkable and it is able to clean up pet hair. It also excels in removing large particles like cat litter and cereal. It is less effective on carpets with high pile. It can remove pet hair, as well as larger debris. But it struggles with smaller particles, like sand. Sand gets caught 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 robot vacuum is capable of maneuvering through a variety of furniture and obstacles and the circular design allows it to fit tightly under the legs of chairs. The 960 is compatible with Alexa and can be controlled with voice commands. It can be programmed to return automatically to its charging station.
The 960 requires a bit of maintenance, including regular replacement of the dust bin, filter and the spinning brush. The components need to be replaced every few months to keep them in good working order. It is also recommended to clean your sensors in the dirt compartment regularly. In keeping best robot vacuum in good shape will keep the Roomba functioning at its best and help it to last longer.
The 960 is a good robotic vacuum, but it is not perfect. It's costly, but worth it if your goal is an appliance that cleans well. It also comes with a range of features that make it a great alternative for those with busy life. The iRobot App is simple to use and Roomba's schedule for cleaning can be set. It comes in a variety of finishes and colors to allow you to match the Roomba with your decor.
Roomba 980 from iRobot
The Roomba is the most sophisticated robotic cleaner in iRobot’s current line-up. Its full suite of navigation sensors allows it to navigate under and around furniture, and along edges, while Cliff Detect keeps it from falling down the stairs. Its multi-surface brushes grab dirt and debris from every kind of floor, while moving 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 avoid hitting walls and objects. The camera can also detect areas that are dirty. This triggers the Roomba to automatically boost its suction power, and move over these zones multiple times before moving forward.
Users can set up digital Keep Out zones that prevent the Roomba entering areas in the home they do not want it to access. This feature was added to the app in October, 2019. This feature is a fantastic addition to the Roomba 980's impressive set of features, and will prove to be useful for many consumers.
After a two-hour clean-up The Roomba 980 will automatically returns to its docking station to recharge. This is the only robot in its class that comes with this feature. It allows you to leave your robot to work even when you are away for extended periods of time. The app's remote control feature lets you start or stop cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.
The Roomba App is easy to use and simple. The main screen is adorned with an enormous clean button that is activated by just a single tap, and the bottom row of icons offers easy access to settings such as cleaning preferences and a weekly schedule and much more. You can even link the app to your smart assistant of choice to issue voice commands.
The ability to issue a command through the app isn't always a quick process, however, and it can take a while for Roomba to understand your request. It's a frustrating flaw in the machine that is heavily reliant on its sophisticated controls, and it seems especially awry considering that the 980 is expensive.

The Roomba 980, iRobot’s flagship model is a powerful piece of equipment. Its powerful cleaning capabilities, long battery life of up to two hours, and intelligent features make it among the top robot vac uums on the market. It's not as flexible as other models due to the lack of a dedicated app and remote control. The 980 is a great choice for anyone looking for an efficient automated vacuum that takes the burden off of you. Be prepared to pay a little more.