The IRobot company produces some of the most reliable and durable robot vacuum cleaners that make the life of housewives much easier.
The range includes both budget models with a minimum of functions and very optional options that completely replace high-quality cleaning.
A robot vacuum cleaner is a reliable assistant for cleaning the house. It cleans floor coverings of large debris and fine dust, carries out wet cleaning (if the appropriate function is available) and even prepares the apartment for receiving guests while the owners are at work.
How to choose an IRobot robot vacuum cleaner and which models to pay attention to?
Rating of the TOP 9 best robotic vacuum cleaners iRobot Roomba
Place | Model | Price |
#1 | iRobot Roomba 676 | |
#2 | iRobot Roomba 981 | |
#3 | iRobot Roomba i7+ | |
#4 | iRobot Braava 390T | |
#5 | iRobot Roomba e5 | |
#6 | iRobot Roomba 960 | |
#7 | iRobot Braava Jet 240 | |
#8 | iRobot Roomba 606 | |
#9 | iRobot Roomba 980 |
Vacuum cleaner at work
I’ll say right away that the vacuum cleaner creates noticeable background noise; according to my measurements, its level was 60-65 dB. This is not harmful to hearing, but it noticeably disturbs the silence. But, on the other hand, the cleaning quality of the Roomba i3 fully justifies this.
I really liked the cleaning algorithm, the vacuum cleaner moves around the room in zigzags and does not miss any of the places where it understands that it can pass. And if the possibility of passage is not obvious at first glance, then the vacuum cleaner will make several careful attempts to get there, turn around and move on. These can be openings between a table and a chair, or other hard-to-reach places between furniture and household appliances.
iRobot says the i3 model uses simpler algorithms than the older Roomba i7 vacuum cleaner. But I don’t have a single complaint about the cleaning quality of the i3 and I didn’t notice any simplification.
The vacuum cleaner cleans really well, which I concluded from the amount of dust and other particles in the container after cleaning. And also by the marks on the carpet, the trampled pile of which the vacuum cleaner lifted with each pass. Here it is worth saying thanks not only to the great suction power, but also to the rubber rollers, which capture everything possible from the surface and do not require additional cleaning. Unlike ordinary roller brushes, which are a pleasure to remove hair from.
The container is quite easy to clean from dust, then it can be washed under running water, after removing the HEPA filter, of course. The i3+, which comes with an auto-cleaning dock, uses a slightly different container that is shaped like the i3's, but has a valve that connects to the Clean Base, which cleans it like a regular vacuum cleaner.
Let us remind you that Clean Base removes dust from the robot vacuum cleaner by sucking it out of the container and transferring it to a regular bag, as in a standard vacuum cleaner. And this, in turn, allows you to make maintenance of the vacuum cleaner less frequent.
The battery life varies depending on the degree of contamination of the surface in the room being cleaned. The manufacturer claims the ability to clean an area of up to 150 square meters on a single charge or 75 minutes of operation. But, as I already said, the final operating time will depend on the amount of dust, as well as the operating mode. This can be either a single pass or a double pass.
The dots show areas with the highest levels of pollution
But, even if the vacuum cleaner battery dies before the end of cleaning the entire room, the vacuum cleaner will still use the remaining charge to travel to the charger, and having received a sufficient charge, it will then continue cleaning from the moment where it was finished.
4.5
ITC.UA rating
Pros: algorithms and quality of cleaning, convenient and functional application for management
Cons: high noise level during operation, price
Conclusion: I really liked the iRobot Roomba i3. During testing, the vacuum cleaner cleaned my apartment every day, not in the easiest conditions, for several weeks. There was a lot of dust, many different obstacles on the way, but, whenever possible, he coped with these tests with honor. Yes, its price is slightly higher than that of some competitors, but given the quality of cleaning, for me it is completely understandable. I did not find any shortcomings in this model related to the quality of cleaning or software algorithms and can recommend it for purchase. Of course, there are nuances that should be taken into account, but this vacuum cleaner copes with its main function.
Specifications
iRobot Roomba i3 9,319 — 19,623 UAH Compare prices | |
Type | Robot vacuum cleaner |
Cleaning area, sq.m | no data |
Coating type | carpet, carpet, tiles, laminate, parquet, linoleum |
Suction power, W | no data |
Dust container capacity, ml | no data |
Noise level, dB | no data |
Battery type | Li-Ion 1850 mAh |
Battery charging time, h | 3,7 |
Battery operating time, min | no data |
Device height, mm | 92 |
Dimensions, mm | 337x337x92 |
Weight, kg | 3,4 |
Color | black gray |
Dry | There is |
Wet | — |
Rubbing the floor (floor polisher function) | — |
Window cleaning | — |
Virtual wall | — |
Magnetic tape | — |
Movement coordinators | There is |
Obstacle sensor (IR or ultrasonic) | There is |
Height difference (drop) sensor | There is |
Pollution sensor | There is |
Cleaning modes | no data |
Driving Modes | no data |
Timer | yes (cleaning according to schedule) |
Automatic recharging (return to base) | There is |
Resuming cleaning after recharging | no data |
Increased suction power on carpets | There is |
Voice control | yes (Google Assistant, Alexa) |
Building a room map | yes (without remembering) |
UV lamp | — |
Garbage dumping station | — |
Remote control | — |
Remote control | There is |
Navigation camera | — |
Dust container full indicator | no data |
Turbo brush | yes (2) |
Number of side brushes, pcs. | 1 |
Equipment | Robot vacuum cleaner; Docking station with power adapter; Spare HEPA filter; Supporting documentation |
Additionally | Suction power 1700 Pa. HEPA filter. |
Important Features to Select
In any store, the robot vacuum cleaner section is overflowing with various options. All devices look approximately the same, but their characteristics and functionality are radically different.
This is what determines such a difference in price: the simplest assistants cost no more than 5,000 rubles, and the most richly stuffed ones cost several tens of thousands of rubles.
What should you pay attention to when choosing?
- Navigation type. There are models on the market with one of 4 methods of orientation in space: IR sensors, gyroscope (both options with a mechanical soft-touch bumper), camera, laser rangefinder (lidar). Vacuum cleaners with lidar are the most “smart” in terms of navigation, but also the most expensive. Models with a mechanical soft-touch bumper belong to devices in the mid-price segment. Gadgets with a camera create a route and remember it, which is why they are also considered one of the best.
- Operating time and area of cleaned space. On average, robot vacuum cleaners work for 1.5-2 hours without recharging, but some cover 60 square meters during this time, while others cover 150. Therefore, you need to take into account the area of your apartment when purchasing a device.
- Battery type. The most reliable are lithium-ion and lithium-polymer, but nickel-metal hydride ones have more disadvantages than advantages.
- Volume of the waste container. For a room of up to 50 square meters, 0.3 liters will be enough, from 50 to 80 square meters - half a liter, and for large apartments and private houses, a vacuum cleaner with a container of 0.5 to 1 liter is suitable.
- Noise level. If you have small children in the house or are generally not comfortable with noisy work, it is better to buy a robot vacuum cleaner with a noise level of up to 50 dB.
- Rich in functions. Timer, control from a smartphone, delayed start, wet cleaning - this is also worth paying attention to. The more functions, the better, but there is no need to buy a device that is too sophisticated if a number of functions will never be useful.
- The ability to overcome obstacles. Cords, thresholds and walls will force some devices to turn around, while others will force them to smoothly go around or overcome. With the first one there will be many problems: it will have to be constantly guided manually and carried around the apartment. The better the robot vacuum cleaner copes with obstacles, the less human participation in cleaning.
- Filter type. HEPA filters, which consist of several layers and have a denser material texture, are considered advanced.
- Availability of replaceable nozzles included. Turbo brushes, electric brushes and other attachments allow you to clean different floor coverings (linoleum, carpet, long-pile carpet), as well as get into hard-to-reach places and clean in corners.
Difference between series
Series 600
The 600 series iRobot Roomba is considered a full-fledged successor to the previously discontinued 500 series. Robot vacuum cleaners of the 600 series have a basic set of functions for effective dry cleaning of premises and are the most affordable in price compared to products from other series.
The disadvantages of the devices are the “meager” equipment, as well as the inability to work with motion coordinators, which help robots navigate in space and successfully find a charging station. Almost all robot vacuum cleaners do not have manual control. This family includes the following models: 616, 620, 630, 631, 635, 650, 681, 690.
The Rumba 616 robot differs from other models by the presence of a modified docking station, which does not require the use of a separate power supply. The robot is equipped with an improved Ni-MH rechargeable battery XLife 2200 mAh, an anti-tangle system, an AeroVac Bin dust collector with a fine filter and is equipped with a remote control and a virtual wall (which is unusual for the 600 family). This device is one of the most beloved among buyers due to the optimal ratio of cost and quality. This is why it is one of the best robot vacuum cleaners of 2021 in its price segment.
Roomba 616
The Roomba 620 model was released back in 2012 and is the youngest in the iRobot line. The kit includes a charging base and a comb knife. The device only boasts an AeroVac dust collector and a 3000 mAh Ni-MH battery, which will allow you to clean 1-2 rooms at a time. The robot vacuum cleaner is not programmable by day of the week; it does not have a motion limiter or remote control.
AeroVac dust collector
Rumba 630 differs from the previous device by the presence of a virtual wall in the delivery set. In general, the model is similar in parameters and capabilities to the Roomba 620; it has an AeroVac dust collector with improved noise levels. In addition to the virtual wall, the kit includes two spare filters.
iRobot Roomba 631 is equipped with the same 3000 mAh Ni-MH battery as the two previous devices; it includes a virtual wall, a HEPA filter, and a plastic comb for cleaning the central brush. A positive point is the large volume of the waste container - 750 ml. The vacuum cleaner is still not programmable and does not have a remote control.
Roomba 650 is a more advanced robot; it is capable of cleaning surfaces from hair and pet hair thanks to a set of three brushes, good suction power and an increased dust container capacity (1 liter). Another distinctive feature of this robot is the iAdapt navigation system, which allows it to better navigate and automatically adapt to the type of floor covering being cleaned. Further more!
Rumba 650
The automated robot cleaner Rumba 681 is an example of further development of technology in the field of affordable smart home appliances. It is equipped with a more modern 2130 mAh lithium-ion battery, an iAdapt navigation system, a DirtDetect function for automatically recognizing areas with the highest levels of dirt, and programmable operating schedules. The vacuum cleaner is equipped with a “Virtual Mode 2 in 1” device, with which you can limit the movement of the device.
DirtDetect
The Roomba 690, similar to the 681 model, comes with programmable cleaning schedules and advanced technology for limiting the cleaning area (virtual wall with linear and circular radiation patterns), as well as the ability to control from a smartphone. This function allows you to fully compensate for the lack of a remote control among the components.
App control
Series 700
The iRobot 700 series robotic vacuum cleaners are distinguished by an upgraded AeroVac 2 dust collector, a larger cleaning area on a single battery charge, the presence of virtual walls in combination with the work of special coordinating beacons (LightHouse), advanced movement algorithms and a modern, stylish appearance. All devices in this family provide an important function for scheduling cleaning by hour and day of the week.
LightHouse
Roomba 760 has a more advanced package, which includes a remote control, a pair of spare filters, and a virtual wall. There is also an intelligent cleaning system and optimal energy consumption of the iAdapt battery and technology for detecting contaminated areas. Rumba 770, unlike the previous device, has a sensor for container filling, dust, as well as sensors for detecting large and small particles of dirt. Despite having many advantages, both devices were discontinued at the end of 2013.
The 776th model, unlike the previous ones, has an improved battery that supports twice as many discharge-charge cycles. Also distinctive is the presence of an updated docking station with an integrated power supply to simplify charging and eliminate the use of unnecessary wires.
Rumba 776
Roomba 780 is the most popular and expensive robot vacuum cleaner of the 700 series. This is explained by the good package, which includes spare filters and brushes, a remote control, and a pair of coordinator beacons that support virtual walls mode. Coordinators allow the vacuum cleaner to navigate in space even in the dark and find its base while in another room. There is a 3-stage cleaning system that automatically adapts to different surfaces and anti-tangle technology.
Remote control
Series 800
The iRobot 800 series robot vacuum cleaners are not an upgraded version of their predecessors, they are completely new devices with an innovative approach to cleaning rooms. The quality of work carried out in them has increased by 50% and has become simply unsurpassed.
Roomba 865 uses completely different technologies compared to the devices of the previous two families - it has a powerful motor and turbine for more efficient cleaning of floors. Also, productivity growth is associated with the introduction of innovative Aeroforce technology. In addition, the 865 features an updated iAdapt Responsive Navigation Technology system for significantly better spatial orientation.
Robot navigation
Roomba 870 and 880 have ultrasonic sensors for orientation in space, a remote control, a timer, two automatic coordinator-beacons, two fine filters included and has the ability to automatically adapt to different types of surfaces. The models are almost identical, externally they can only be distinguished by the color of the case.
Roomba 870
Rumba 886 is similar to 865 in technical characteristics, but there is a slight difference in appearance. Features a remote control, bin full indicator, programmable cleaning schedule and an improved XLife battery.
The Roomba 890 (895 or 896) robot vacuum cleaner is the more “advanced” of all, it has a modern lithium-ion battery and can be controlled from a smartphone using a special iRobot Home application. Thus, you can control and program the device remotely, without even being in the same room.
Series 900
The main difference between this family is the visual orientation system. These robots are equipped with a video camera, so they are now able to scan the space, creating a map of the room being cleaned. Also, both models 960 and 980 feature the latest vSLAM navigation system, thanks to which the robot moves along parallel trajectories while avoiding obstacles in its path.
vSLAM
Cloud technologies and proprietary iRobot Home software for smartphones allow full control of the Roomba 960, even from a distance. The vacuum cleaner also features the company's latest iAdapt 2 technology for more accurate recognition of the type of floor covering.
iRobot’s “crown of creation” is the Roomba 980, which is distinguished not only by the highest technical parameters and capabilities, but also by changes in design. The body is made in a minimalist style, and all control functions are assigned to the application in the smartphone. In addition to automatically adapting to different floor coverings, the device includes a Carpet Boost carpet cleaning system. So far (mid-2021) this is one of the best iRobot robotic vacuum cleaners in terms of functionality and characteristics.
Carpet Boost
By the way, in 2021, the new iRobot Roomba 981 appeared on the market. There are no significant changes in the model; in fact, it is the same 980th Roomba in a new color.
New items for 2021
In the spring of 2021, three new Rumbas appeared on the market: i7, i7+, e5. We provided reviews of them in the following articles:
So, a distinctive feature of the i7+ model is a self-cleaning base, as well as an improved iAdapt 3.0 navigation system and Imprint Smart Mapping, thanks to which the robot can remember the location of rooms. In addition, the design has changed slightly. iRobot Roomba i7 is a robot without a self-cleaning base, but with all the same capabilities and characteristics.
Self-cleaning
But as for the Roomba e5, the design of the dust collector has changed in this robot, so that it can be washed under running water. The robot itself is equipped with rubber rollers, controlled via a smartphone and voice assistants, and also works less noisily and better sucks up debris from the floor. At the same time, reviews about the model are contradictory; buyers do not like the robot’s navigation (primitive, as in the 600 series), as well as the lack of a rubber bumper and the fact that the form factor of the battery has been changed. Now the battery is not interchangeable with other series.
Braava Series
We talked about the differences in the line of robots for dry cleaning, now we will provide a comparison of iRobot robotic floor polishers, i.e. Let's tell you how the Brava series models differ from each other.
Let's start with the most popular floor polisher - iRobot Braava Jet 240. It is the most budget-friendly among its “brothers”, but has no significant differences. The first thing that distinguishes this robot is the ability to control it from a smartphone. Other floor polishers in the Braava line are controlled only by buttons on the body. The second is the cleaning area. Jet 240 is capable of wiping no more than 30 square meters of room on one charge. Well, it should also be noted that this robot sprays liquid directly onto the floor, and then rubs the surface with a napkin in several passes.
Jet 240
The twin robots iRobot Braava 380T and 390T differ in that they are controlled only by buttons on the body. But the cleaning area reaches 93 square meters, which is 3 times more than that of the Jet 240. It should also be noted that the liquid is evenly sprayed onto the napkin during cleaning, and not directly onto the floor. This option is more suitable for parquet and laminate, because... causes less harm to this type of coating. We called the 380 and 390 models twins because... They differ only in color and configuration. In Braava 390T, the equipment has been expanded by 1 additional napkin.
Braava 380T and 390T
Scooba Series
Well, in conclusion, we decided to provide a comparison of iRobot Scooba washing robotic vacuum cleaners.
So, the smallest robot for wet cleaning is Scuba 230. It is suitable for cleaning one room (bathroom or kitchen), because... The cleaned area does not exceed 15 square meters. The battery capacity is only 1300 mAh, the charging base is not included, as is the control panel.
Scooba 230
Following the 230th floor polisher are newer models: iRobot Scooba 380, 385 and 390. They can clean up to 80 square meters of space, are equipped with a powerful battery with a capacity of 4100 mAh and a virtual wall. Scuba 385 even comes with 2 walls. These cleaning robots can already be used to clean the entire apartment or house if the floor is covered with linoleum, parquet, laminate or tiles.
Scooba 385
Well, the newest device in the Scooba series is the iRobot Scooba 450. Its battery is weaker - 3000 mAh, the cleaning area is also inferior to its predecessors and is 32 square meters. However, the quality of cleaning has been improved; manufacturers have introduced the iAdapt navigation system. Today, the robot has been discontinued, and official dealers strongly recommend purchasing more modern floor polishers from the Braava series.
Scooba 450
The best models of robotic vacuum cleaners IRobot
IRobot is an American robotics manufacturer that is known for producing multifunctional and reliable mid-price and premium robot vacuum cleaners.
All devices that belong to the IRobot brand are divided into vacuum cleaners for dry cleaning, wet cleaning and floor polishers.
We present the TOP 9 rating and review of the best devices based on customer reviews and ratings.
iRobot Roomba 676
A lightweight, compact device with a set of all necessary functions, it removes large debris, hair, animal hair and dust well.
The iRobot Roomba 676 robot vacuum cleaner is well suited for cleaning small spaces. It is designed for cleaning a 60-square-meter apartment, orients itself in space using an infrared sensor, and the operating cycle without recharging is 1 hour.
The vacuum cleaner overcomes heights, copes with long-pile carpets, and also supports control from a smartphone.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry;
- filtration system: fine filter;
- dust container volume: 0.6 l;
- navigation: IR sensors;
- work without recharging: 1 hour, 60 sq.m.;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 58 dB;
- additional options: automatic cleaning, scheduled cleaning, notification when the dust container is full, improved AeroForce cleaning system, control from a smartphone, anti-tangle system, ability to work with a virtual wall.
Advantages
- there are side brushes;
- reliable battery;
- efficient cleaning;
- spacious dust container;
- There are collision sensors.
Flaws
- high noise level;
- outdated type of orientation in space;
- no wet cleaning function.
iRobot Roomba 981
A stylish, effective device with a camera not only at the top, but also at the bottom, thanks to which it overcomes almost all obstacles, is well oriented in space, and is capable of efficiently cleaning large rooms.
One of the most popular gadgets is iRobot Roomba 981, which is known for its power, high performance and optionality.
You can change its settings directly on your smartphone, set the automatic cleaning mode and not worry about it not being able to cope with the task: it remembers the route and can even continue cleaning from the place where it ran out of battery.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- dust container volume: 0.8 l;
- navigation: camera, optical sensor;
- work without recharging: 120 minutes, more than 100 sq.m.;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 50 dB;
- additional options: automatic cleaning, scheduled cleaning, notification when the dust container is full, control from a smartphone, 5 operating modes, there is a step sensor, side brushes, brushless rubber rollers, route planning.
Advantages
- low noise level;
- good filtration system, suitable for allergy sufferers;
- there is a quick cleaning mode;
- suction power increases when moving from smooth flooring to carpet;
- can work without recharging for 2 hours.
Flaws
- no wet cleaning function;
- high price;
- heavy.
iRobot Roomba i7+
A smart, fully automated robot vacuum cleaner compatible with Google and Alexa voice assistants.
The advanced model IRobot Roomba i7+ with a soft bumper, additional side brushes, an auto-search function for a charger and powerful operation.
The device is ideal for busy people who don't have time to clean, as it not only supports automatic cleaning programs, but also empties the dust container itself.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- dust container volume: 1 l;
- navigation: camera, optical sensor;
- work without recharging: 75 minutes;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 50 dB;
- additional options: control from a smartphone, compatibility with the Smart Home system and voice assistants Google, Alexa, the ability to automatically empty the dust collector in a disposable bag, auto-search for a charger.
Advantages
- voluminous dust collector;
- fully automated control system;
- high suction power;
- automatically collects debris from the dust collector;
- works almost silently.
Flaws
- expensive;
- does not support wet cleaning;
- no collision protection.
iRobot Braava 390T
A robot floor polisher with an unusual design and modest dimensions at an affordable price.
A very quiet, lightweight, miniature assistant for housewives, it has a simple control system and a wet cleaning mode.
The Braava 390T is suitable even for older people: it is easy to use, removes debris and dust, and also cleans floors, runs up to 4 hours without recharging and is very durable.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry, wet;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- navigation: IR sensors;
- operation without recharging: 4 hours, up to 186 square meters;
- battery type: nickel-metal hydride;
- noise level: 36 dB;
- additional options: creates a floor plan, turns off when overheated.
Advantages
- affordable price;
- works silently;
- wipes floors well and removes dust;
- can work without recharging for up to 4 hours;
- responds well to collisions with obstacles and changes in height.
Flaws
- few functions;
- cannot be controlled from a smartphone;
- no automatic cleaning mode;
- The water tank needs to be filled several times during one cleaning.
iRobot Roomba e5
Reliable, affordable, optional assistant with the highest suction power, soil detection and washable container.
Roomba e5 is a small but powerful robot vacuum cleaner with good characteristics, which is suitable for regular cleaning of medium-sized apartments.
Sensors help the robot navigate in space, overcome obstacles and heights, and also mitigate collisions with walls and furniture.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- dust container volume: 0.6 l;
- navigation: optical sensors;
- work without recharging: 90 minutes;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 58 dB;
- additional options: compatible with voice assistants Google, Echo and Alexa, control from a smartphone, drawing up a floor plan, delayed start, 4 operating modes, shutdown when overheated.
Advantages
- is well oriented in space;
- three-stage carpet cleaning system;
- automatically moves to the charger;
- has high suction power;
- recognizes particularly contaminated areas.
Flaws
- high price;
- no wet cleaning;
- does not cope with carpets with a pile of more than 2 cm;
- noisy at work.
iRobot Roomba 960
A smart, reliable, powerful device with high cleaning quality and the ability to control from a smartphone.
One of the best robot vacuum cleaners Roomba 960 both in its price segment and among other IRobot models.
It is distinguished by its stylish appearance, compact size, versatility, practicality, robust body and good orientation in space.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- dust container volume: 1 l;
- navigation: infrared sensors;
- work without recharging: 75 minutes;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 36 dB;
- additional options: 3 operating modes, navigates in space using a virtual wall, supports control from a smartphone, has a dust bin full indicator, delayed start function, and automatic installation on the charger.
Advantages
- spacious dust container;
- very quiet in operation;
- copes with carpets with pile up to 3 cm;
- Charges quickly from the mains (up to 1.5 hours).
Flaws
- high price;
- heavy;
- no wet cleaning function.
iRobot Braava Jet 240
A budget robot floor polisher with many useful functions, a well-functioning navigation system and a stylish body made of durable plastic.
The Braava Jet 240 is easy to operate, a fairly reliable device with a wet cleaning function, disposable wipes included and the ability for daily cleaning.
It is designed for small spaces and is suitable for use by older people, especially in apartments where there are small children and animals.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry, wet;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- dust container volume: 150 ml;
- navigation: optical sensors;
- work without recharging: 4 hours, 25 square meters;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 58 dB;
- additional options: 3 operating modes, liquid collection function, control from a smartphone, soft bumper.
Advantages
- stylish design;
- lightweight and compact;
- affordable price;
- can work up to 4 hours without recharging;
- easy to manage.
Flaws
- very small water tank;
- you need to buy replacement rags and napkins;
- does not suck up large debris: it is only capable of wiping dust.
iRobot Roomba 606
A budget-friendly, simple device for daily cleaning that copes with animal hair, fine dust and litter.
Roomba 606 assistant, which does not replace full-fledged house cleaning, but is well suited for small apartments where there are pets.
There are several operating modes, automatic installation on the charger and jam indication.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- dust container volume: 600 ml;
- navigation: IR sensors;
- work without recharging: 60 minutes;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 60 dB;
- additional options: 3 operating modes, additional microfilter, automatic installation on the charger, shutdown when overheating.
Advantages
- budget;
- small and light;
- large volume of dust collector;
- There are additional side brushes.
Flaws
- no smooth collision with obstacles: may damage furniture or walls;
- takes a very long time to charge;
- cannot be controlled from a smartphone;
- There is no automatic cleaning function.
iRobot Roomba 980
A stylish device with movement limiters and additional rubber brushes, compatible with various types of floor coverings.
The Roomba 980 is a premium robot vacuum cleaner with many useful features, including a special carpet cleaning mode. It can work in the Smart Home system and cleans surfaces well, including from dust mites and allergens.
Specifications:
- type of cleaning: dry;
- filtration system: HEPA-12 (anti-allergenic);
- dust container volume: 1 l;
- navigation: IR sensors, 2 video cameras, gyroscope;
- work without recharging: 120 minutes;
- battery type: lithium-ion;
- noise level: 60 dB;
- additional options: control from a smartphone, work in the Smart Home system, unique technologies AeroForce, Dirt Detect, iAdapt, work with voice assistants Google and Alexa.
Advantages
- large dust container;
- many cleaning modes;
- performs high-quality cleaning on different floor coverings;
- several brushes included;
- independently builds a cleaning route.
Flaws
- high price;
- no wet cleaning function;
- noisy at work.
Features of iRobot Roomba robotic vacuum cleaners
For your information! The iRobot company is considered one of the leaders in the production of robotic technology, because all the proposed devices have a list of positive qualities. Among them:
- recognition of the type of floor covering;
- programming cleaning by day of the week;
- the presence of a spacious dust collector;
- a large number of sensors;
- compactness and maneuverability;
- modern design;
- ease of management and maintenance.
The main advantage of robotic vacuum cleaners from the iRobot brand is their long service life without the need to replace parts or repairs .
Criterias of choice
Before purchasing this or that model, the user must consider the following parameters.
Battery capacity
The operating time of the device will depend on this criterion. So, if the area of the room in which you plan to use the vacuum cleaner is small, then models that operate for up to 1 hour without recharging are suitable. Otherwise, you should choose a device with a more powerful battery and, accordingly, an operating time of more than 1 hour, otherwise the robot vacuum cleaner will stop in the middle of the cleaning process and go to the base to charge for several hours. The cleaning area for which a particular model is designed is usually indicated in the technical data sheet of the device. But you can make calculations yourself, based on a simple rule: you need to subtract 10 from the total time of continuous operation of the device, the result will be a number indicating the approximate square footage that a vacuum cleaner can remove from 1 charge.
Dust collection container volume
The dimensions of the dust collector are no less important; the larger these indicators, the less often you will have to clean it. So, if you have to clean large areas, we recommend choosing models with a spacious dust collector. The most popular and popular option is a model with a volume of 0.6 liters, but there are devices with a smaller tank - 0.2 liters. Some devices are equipped with an enlarged dust container, the volume of which is up to 1 liter.
M.Video presents models that do not have a dust collector. Such devices are used for wet cleaning of floor coverings: laminate, parquet. The device is equipped with microfiber cloths that carefully remove dirt without harming the coating. This option is not suitable for cleaning carpets.
Filtration
The quality of cleaning directly depends on this criterion. When small debris accumulates in the dust collector, the dust is retained by the filter. The denser the unit, the better its functions are performed, and the less often cleaning is required. The most effective and in demand is the NEPA filtration system. Multilayer filters made of dense material are used here.
Orientation in space
The M.Video catalog presents two types of robotic vacuum cleaners:
- are oriented using an infrared beam. Most of the device range is equipped with similar components. The unit moves independently around the room using infrared sensors. They allow you to avoid obstacles and avoid bumping into walls, and also automatically return the vacuum cleaner to the base for recharging.
- Gyroscopic sensor. Thanks to the built-in gyroscope, the device can determine the angle of rotation and not deviate from the programmed route. Most often, such models move along parallel lines, thereby not missing areas of the flooring.
Operating modes
Its behavior in a given situation will depend on how many modes are provided in the device. In most cases, the user sets the mode manually; some models switch programs automatically.
The M.Video catalog presents robotic vacuum cleaners that perform from 2 to 7 programs. As a rule, the difference between the modes lies in the movement of the machine and additional functions. Thus, a device with two modes can perform both regular cleaning and move in a spiral. The device with 3 built-in programs, in addition to similar actions, is capable of removing stains and performing turbo cleaning.
Most robot vacuum cleaners are equipped with 5 modes, which allows for high-quality cleaning, taking into account the individual characteristics of each room.
Additional functionality
- Definition of steps. This function will be useful for users living in private houses or apartments on two floors. The vacuum cleaner will not fall down the stairs, even if special stops are not installed. The sensor function can be performed by either an infrared sensor or a gyroscope.
- The charge level indicator indicates the amount of time the device can still function without recharging.
- Delayed start. This function allows you to set a convenient start time, even when there is no one in the room, the device will do its job conscientiously.
Equipment
Also, when choosing a robot vacuum cleaner, we recommend taking into account its equipment. It depends on the manufacturer and the selected model. In most cases, the following components are additionally included: brushes, devices for cleaning the vacuum cleaner, charging, magnetic tapes to limit movement and a remote control.
Features of vacuum cleaners from the manufacturer
Not all robot vacuum cleaners are designed the same. Quite often, when choosing a home assistant, buyers neglect the company and the technologies it represents, giving preference to a low price, and are disappointed in this segment. However, to truly enjoy your purchase, it is advisable to know what to look for.
The iRobot company, which announced itself on the Russian market in 2009, took a high place and instantly won the trust of customers. Some models of this company are able to connect with smartphones, which makes cleaning more enjoyable and easier. In addition, the latest new products are equipped with powerful AWARE™ technology, thanks to which the vacuum cleaner itself avoids obstacles and plots a route.
Advantages and disadvantages
Like any other technological innovation, the iRobot vacuum cleaner model has a number of advantages and disadvantages.
The advantages include:
- Everyone's favorite ratio between price and quality. The cost of the selected model fully corresponds to the functions received.
- Easy to operate. A convenient interface, easy to use, will not create problems in the beginning and during the work of the electronic home assistant.
- Hands-free cleaning. Robot vacuum cleaners handle cleaning without outside help. Pre-programmed, they can start cleaning on their own and finish it on their own.
Like any other technical device, such a robot vacuum cleaner is not without its drawbacks:
- High cost compared to other categories of vacuum cleaners. The price of a high-quality robot is an order of magnitude different from the price of a vacuum cleaner without robotic properties.
- A robot vacuum cleaner will not cope with its task in a small area filled with furniture and things. This device is good for large rooms, houses and multi-meter apartments with open space.
- If you choose inattentively, there is a high probability of encountering a low-quality product, which will entail a number of unpleasant consequences: insufficient functionality will not allow you to do your job efficiently, as a result of which the money will be wasted.
However, people who purchased Airobot Rumba for themselves left mostly positive reviews about it.