Robot Vacuum Reviews
Robot vacuums can cut down on the requirement to clean regularly however, they cannot replace plug-in models. To keep them in top condition requires emptying the trash bin after every cleaning session, wiping the cameras and sensors periodically, and replacing filters and side brushes as needed.
It comes with a decent-sized container and an auto-empty. Its obstacle avoidance remains getting caught in socks and cords and dirt near 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 debris from bare floors. It also has three-spoked rotating brushes that can remove debris from wall edges and corners. The Roomba 694 is quite efficient in removing pet hair, although it may leave some in carpet fibers if you let it run through several cleaning cycles.
The 694 does a decent job of moving itself around, and it does not get stuck on things like cords or furniture that aren't high enough. However, it doesn't come equipped with the latest obstacle avoidance technology, and its battery can be depleted before returning to its dock.
It's still a good choice if you want an affordable robot vacuum that is easy to use. It can be controlled 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 iOS Shortcuts.
You can also control the Roomba 694 remotely from anywhere by downloading the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or tablet. The app lets you create customized cleaning schedules and also monitor the robot's performance. You can even use the app to cancel cleaning jobs that are in progress, if you need to. The iRobot app will also notify users of errors if the robot encounters problems for instance, if he wedges himself into an opening in the furniture.
The Roomba 694 is a decent vacuum cleaner however, it's not designed to navigate stairs or narrow paths. It also does a lousy job of vacuuming carpets with low pile leaving a number of hair clumps and tufts left behind. If you have many carpets with low pile in your home, you might think about a different robot vacuum.
Contrary to the Roomba S9, which features an onboard HEPA filter This model does not have an auto-emptying bin. The dirt compartment is a moderate size, however it will have to be cleaned out after every cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you view a record of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the date and time they were executed as well as the method used to start them (app, scheduling or physical buttons on the robot) as well as the duration and the finished status.
The iRobot 694 is superior to the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly constructed, has lower cost of operation and has a bigger dust bin, charges faster, maneuvers over obstacles like electrical cords without difficulty, and performs better on both carpets with high piles and bare floors. The app that it comes with offers a range of more sophisticated automation features. The Roomba 694 is not quite as efficient as the Shark IQ robotic cleaner, that has a larger dirt compartment, lasts for longer on a single charge, and comes equipped with physical boundaries that keep it out certain areas.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 robot vacuum is one of the most advanced iRobot models. It has many features that set it apart from other robots. They include advanced dirt detection technology and mapping-saving technologies. It is equipped with a powerful vacuum system and is compatible with Alexa. This is a great choice for those looking for a high-tech robot vacuum with WiFi connectivity and outstanding cleaning performance.
The 960 is a circular robotic equipped with two brushrolls made of rubber and three caster wheels to ensure stability. It weighs 3.9kg making it simple to carry up and down steps. You can choose to purchase it with or without a docking system, depending on what you prefer. The docking station is crucial for keeping the Roomba fully charged and connected when it is not working. The docking station is a practical 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 both bare floors and carpet. Its performance on hard surfaces is remarkable, and it can easily clean up pet hair. It also does an excellent job of picking up big pieces of food debris like cereal and kitty litter. It does not perform as well on carpets with a high pile, however. It can pick up pet hair and some larger particles, but it struggles with smaller particles like sand. Some of the sand gets stuck between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test with Quaker Oats, the 960 performed well, picking up the majority of the powder. The robotic vacuum can maneuver around a wide variety of furniture and obstacles and its circular design permits it to fit snugly under the legs of chairs. The 960 is Alexa compatible and can be controlled with voice commands. It can be programmed to auto return to its charging station.
The 960 requires a bit of maintenance, including regular replacement of the dust bin, filter and the spinning brush. You should replace these parts every couple of months or so to ensure they are in good working order. Also, self cleaning vacuum should clean the dirt compartment sensors regularly. These parts will aid in making the Roomba run at its best and last longer if they are kept in good working order.
The 960 is an excellent robotic vacuum, however it is not perfect. It is expensive however, it is worth it if you are looking for an item that cleans well. It is also loaded with features that make it an ideal option for busy people. The iRobot app is simple to use and the Roomba can be scheduled to clean at certain times. It comes in a range of finishes and colors to allow you to match the Roomba to your decor.
iRobot Roomba 980
The Roomba is the most advanced robotic cleaner in the iRobot's current lineup. Its full set of navigation sensors allows it to navigate under and around furniture and along edges, and Cliff Detect prevents it from falling down stairs. The multi-surface rubber brushes remove dirt and loosen it from any flooring type and then push debris into the suction channel.
iRobot’s vSLAM captures the surrounding environment as it moves. It creates visual landmarks to assist in keeping track of its position and avoid bumping against walls and other objects. The camera can also detect areas that are dirty. This triggers the Roomba to automatically increase its suction power, and then move over these areas several times before moving forward.
A new feature added to the app via October 2019 lets users create digital Keep Out Zones that prevent the Roomba from entering rooms in which they would like it to remain inaccessible. This feature is a fantastic addition to the Roomba 980's already impressive set of features, and will prove to be useful for many consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning time The Roomba 980 will automatically returns to its docking station to recharge. It's the only robot in this class to offer such a feature, and it allows users to let it to work even when you're away for long periods of time. The app's remote control functionality allows you to begin or stop cleaning sessions from anyplace in the world.
The Roomba app is enjoyable to use and the interface is simple and easy to use. The main screen features an enormous clean button that can be activated by one touch. The bottom row of icons allows quick access to settings like cleaning preferences, weekly schedules and more. The app can be linked with your smart assistant to give voice commands.
Issuing a command from the app isn't always an instant affair, though, and it can take some time for the Roomba to understand your request. It's a frustrating problem for a machine so dependent on its sophisticated controls. And it's especially egregious when you consider that the 980 is priced so much.
As iRobot's flagship model, the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its high-powered cleaning power and long battery life of 2 hours, and clever features make it one of the top robot vacuums on the market. It's not as flexible as others due to the lack of an app that is specifically designed and remote control. That said, the 980 is still a great choice for those looking for an automated vacuum that can take care of itself. Make sure you save a bit of money.
