Roomba Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Roomba Robot Vacuum for Your Home
Eufy As robot vacuums continue revolutionizing home cleaning, Roomba by iRobot remains the undisputed leader in autonomous floor care. With over 30 million units sold globally, Roomba pioneered robotic vacuums and continues driving innovation with premium models sporting advanced navigation, custom cleaning schedules, self-emptying bases, and more.
But with so many Roomba options now available, how do you determine the right model for your home and floors? Our Roomba vacuum comparison guide will highlight the top 4 Roombas and discuss the key factors in choosing the best robot vacuum match.
Let’s explore Roomba’s innovative robots primed to keep your floors spotless and free you from mundane vacuuming!
Meet Roomba’s 4 Top Robot Vacuum Models
Roomba manufactures over a dozen robotic vacuum models spanning entry-level to premium. Here we’ll focus on 4 top-rated Roomba vacuums that cover the spectrum of features and budgets:
Roomba i7+
The Roomba i7+ sits at the head of the pack as Roomba’s most advanced robot vacuum. With its automatic dirt disposal system, powerful suction, and smart mapping, highlights include:
- Self-emptyingClean Base that holds 60 days of debris
- 10X suction powerwith Premium 3-Stage Cleaning System
- Smart mappingenables room-specific cleaning
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
- 60-day dustbin capacitywhen using the base
- WiFi connected with app and voice control
Starting around $900 with the Clean Base included, the i7+ delivers powerful floor cleaning and unmatched convenience. It empties itself for months of hands-off operation!
Roomba s9+
As Roomba’s newest release, the Roomba s9+ steps up cleaning with a sophisticated shape ideal for corners. Plus it features:
- The Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposallike the i7+
- 40X suction powerensuring no debris is left behind
- PerfectEdgeTM brushcleans along baseboards and edges
- Advanced 3D sensors for obstacle avoidance
- Custom Smart Mappingvia the iRobot app
- WiFi enabled with Alexa and Google Assistant support
Priced around $1200 with the Clean Base, the s9+ is Roomba’s smartest and most powerful vacuum yet. Unrivaled edge reach and suction performance take robotic cleaning to the next level.
Roomba 675
The Roomba 675 provides a nice middle ground blending affordability and capable cleaning. Key features include:
- 3-Stage Cleaning Systemwith dual multi-surface brushes
- Auto-adjust cleaning headoptimizes across floors
- Patented dirt detection sensorstrigger focused cleaning
- Works on both carpets and hard floors
- 90-minute runtimewith intelligent recharging
- WiFi-enabled mobile app and voice assistant control
This “smart but affordable” Roomba strikes a balance at around $300. With ample cleaning power and remote control, the 675 suits most homes needing everyday robotic vacuum convenience.
Roomba e5
On the more affordable end, the Roomba e5 still packs surprising cleaning punch given its roughly $250 price point. It offers:
- 2 precision multi-surface rubber brushes
- The EDGE-Sweeping brushreaches wall edges and corners
- Improved dirt pickupcompared to earlier models
- Operates for up to 60 minutesper charge
- Sleek premium designonly 2.85″ tall
- Easy scheduling and WiFi app control
For the budget-minded looking to start with robotic vacuum cleaning, the e5 delivers solid dirt pick-up at an appealing price.
Key Considerations for Picking Your Ideal Roomba
When choosing among Roomba models, keep these key criteria in mind:
Home Size and Floor Plan
Larger spaces over 1500+ square feet perform best with Roombas offering longer battery life and smarter navigation. Smaller apartments under 1,000 square feet can get by with more basic affordable models.
Also factor in floor plan complexity – multiple rooms, floors, and layout quirks demand higher-tier Roombas equipped to navigate cleanly.
Carpets vs. Hard Floors
Roombas use brush rolls and suction to handle both carpeting and hard floors. But some excel more on carpets while others focus on hard floor performance.
Check carpet pile height ratings and whether soft roller heads are included for hard floor debris pickup. All Roombas work on both but some are optimized either way.
Pet Hair and Allergies
Households with shedding pets and allergy issues benefit from Roombas with more power to deep clean carpets and superior HEPA filtration in the dustbin.
Review brush systems and filters when pets and allergies are a concern. Root Cyclone technology keeps pet hair from gumming up some Roomba models.
Smart Home Integration
Higher-end Roombas integrate with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa for handy voice control. They also connect via the iRobot app for monitoring, scheduling, custom cleaning jobs, and more.
Skip the smarts if not needed. But built-in WiFi and app connectivity provide perks like remote starting, custom schedules, status notifications, and integration with security cameras to launch Roomba when you’re away.
Charging Base and Clean Base Options
All Roombas require a home base for charging and parking between cleaning jobs. Clean Base models add automated dirt disposal bins that hold months of debris so the robot empties itself.
For true hands-free operation, Clean Bases like in the i7+ and s9+ are worth investing in. But standard charging bases allow cheaper entry pricing.
Runtime and Battery
Basic Roombas run 30-60 minutes per charge while advanced models boast 180+ minutes of constant runtime. Extended batteries allow cleaning larger homes in one job.
Factor in total square footage and open floor plan vs. smaller compartmentalized rooms. Buy enough battery life to clean most areas in one session.
Navigation Technology
Entry Roombas rely on basic bump-and-go navigation guided by infrared sensors. Mid-tier models add smart mapping via built-in cameras. Top Roombas feature advanced sensors and software for intelligent room-by-room mapping.
Sophisticated navigation ensures total floor coverage with minimal redundancy. It also enables cleaning specific rooms on command via the app.
Obstacle and Cliff Avoidance
All Roombas can detect stairs and other drop-offs to avoid falling. Plus they’ll bump into and around furniture and walls rather than damaging your belongings.
But higher-end depth-sensing cameras provide more advanced obstacle avoidance for flawless navigation and avoiding fragile objects on the floor.
Noise Level
Quieter operation is preferable if you need to run your Roomba while home. Pricier Roombas use sound-dampening designs and operate below 65 decibels on average.
Check noise ratings if you need to vacuum while working, relaxing, or sleeping at home. Newer models are much quieter than earlier units.
Maintenance Needs
From emptying the dustbin to cleaning sensors and bristle brushes, Roombas require periodic maintenance – much like traditional vacuums. Self-emptying bases drastically reduce bin cleaning.
Factor in your willingness to handle basic upkeep like brush cleaning and filter changes. iRobot makes parts easy to access but regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.
Your Budget
Roombas range from affordable $200 entry models to $1000+ for ultra-premium robots. But even baseline Roombas deliver satisfying day-to-day cleaning convenience!
Prioritize must-have features and choose the Roomba that best fits your budget while still meeting your needs.
Answers to Common Roomba Questions
Here we’ll address some frequently asked questions about Roomba robot vacuums:
How well do Roombas handle pet hair?
Quite capably thanks to specialized brushes, auto-adjust heads, and technologies like Root Cyclone which prevent hair clogging and tangles. But higher suction and filtration found in models like the s9+ work best for pet fur.
Are Roombas effective at cleaning carpets?
Yes, Roomba’s motorized brush rolls loosen and extract embedded dirt from carpeting. Some even automatically adjust brush height based on the carpet pile detected. Always check carpet pile ratings.
How long does the Roomba’s battery last?
Basic Roombas run for 30-60 minutes per charge while advanced models boast 180+ minutes of constant runtime. Battery life is a key factor for larger homes. Aim for at least 90 minutes of cleaning time.
Can a Roomba completely replace normal vacuuming?
For day-to-day upkeep definitely, especially with smart mapping capabilities to cover all floors thoroughly. But for seasonal deep cleaning, traditional vacuuming is still advised to tackle embedded dirt. Use Roomba for maintenance.
How do Roombas navigate and map a home?
Entry-level Roombas use basic infrared sensors and bump-and-go logic to cover floors. Advanced models like the i7+ create visual Smart Maps via onboard cameras to intelligently clean each room while avoiding obstacles.
Will a Roomba safely avoid falling down stairs?
Yes, all Roombas can detect cliff edges via infrared and optical sensors and will turn away to avoid falling. This technology keeps them safe near stairs and steep drops.
Do all Roombas have WiFi connectivity?
Most newer Roomba models connect via WiFi for app control and integration with smart assistants like Alexa and Google Home. But some baseline models lack WiFi and can only run on schedules via the buttons on the robot.
What kind of maintenance do Roombas require?
You’ll need to empty the dustbin regularly plus clean bristle brushes of debris and hair. Replacing filters every 2-3 months keeps allergens under control. Self-emptying Clean Bases drastically reduce bin cleaning.
How loud are Roomba robot vacuums?
Newer Roombas average 50-65 decibels when running – similar to a running microwave. Old models topped 70+ decibels but noise levels have improved over time.
Can a Roomba get stuck or have trouble docking?
Roombas can get temporarily stuck on edges or cord loops but will usually free themselves. If a Roomba can’t dock, clear obstructions around the base and add virtual lighthouse markers to provide guidance.
Our Top Roomba Recommendation
Considering the various models and key factors, our top Roomba pick is the Roomba i7+ thanks to:
- The revolutionary Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposalsystem for hands-free emptying
- Best-in-class navigation technologyfor methodical whole-home cleaning
- 10X suction powerbeating out cheaper models
- Customizable schedulingvia the mobile app
- Integrationwith Alexa and Google Assistant
For most homes wanting maximum robotic vacuum convenience with enhanced cleaning power, the i7+ is worth the investment. Never manually emptying the bin for months plus intelligently mapping rooms via WiFi makes home automation dreams a reality!
Finding Your Perfect Roomba Match
Roomba revolutionized robotic home cleaning over 15 years ago and continues setting the standard with category-leading models. Hopefully our guide provides some clarity to determine which Roomba aligns with your needs and budget.
Key takeaways:
- Measure floor area and layout complexity to choose adequate navigation capabilities
- Prioritize higher suction and filtration for homes with pets
- Limited WiFi connectivity allows app control and smart home integration
- Self-emptying models like the Clean Base offer the ultimate hands-free convenience
- All Roombas require periodic maintenance like brush cleaning and filter swaps
- Choose advanced navigation, battery, and features only if the value justifies costs for your home size
Bring automated vacuum convenience to your home with the right Roomba match, and enjoy cleaner floors without the chore. Here’s to more time relaxing while your capable robot sidekick tidies up the dust and dirt!
