Robot Vacuum Reviews
While robot vacuums cut down on the need for regular full-blown sweeping, they can't replace the traditional plug-in models. Keeping them in top shape requires emptying the dust bin after each cleaning session, wiping down the cameras and sensors occasionally and changing filters and side brushes as required.
It has a decent-sized bin as well as a quiet auto-empty. However, its obstacle avoidance gets tangled up in cords and socks, and it misses dirt close to baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694"
The Roomba 694 robot vacuum is an entry-level robot vacuum that has dual roller brushes (one bristle and one rubber) to pick up dust, dirt and debris from bare flooring. It also comes with three-spoked rotating brushes that can remove debris from the wall's edges and corners. The Roomba 694 does an excellent job of removing pet hair. However, it may leave some in the carpet fibers following multiple cleaning cycles.
The 694 does an adequate job of maneuvering itself and does not get stuck on things like low furniture or cords. However, it's not equipped with the latest obstacle-avoidance technology, and its battery can be depleted before returning to its dock.
This is a good choice to consider if you're in search of a basic robot cleaner that is easy to use. It can be controlled manually using the Clean, Dock, and?Spot Clean buttons on its top or via voice commands using your preferred voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it can follow Siri commands in Shortcuts for iOS.
You can also manage the Roomba 694 remotely from anywhere by downloading the iRobot Home app on your smartphone or tablet. The app allows you to create customized cleaning schedules and also monitor the robot's performance. You can even make use of the app to stop a cleaning job in progress, if needed. The iRobot app can also issue error alerts in the event that the robot encounters a problem like if it wedges himself into a furniture crevice.
The Roomba 694 is a good vacuum cleaner, but it's not designed to navigate narrow pathways or stairs. It also does a terrible job of vacuuming carpets with low pile leaving a lot of tufts and clumps of hair left behind. It is possible to select an alternative robot vacuum if you have low-pile flooring in your home.
This model, unlike the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, does not have an automatic bin that emptys itself. Its dirt compartment inside is not large however, you'll have empty it at the end of each cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you view a history of your Roomba cleaning jobs. This includes the date and time they were completed, the method used to initiate them (app or scheduling buttons on the robot), the duration and the completed status.
The iRobot 694 is superior to the Coredy R550 because it feels more solidly built, incurs lower annual costs, has a larger dustbin and charges faster, can maneuver over obstacles such as electrical cords with less difficulty, and performs better on both carpets with high piles and bare floors. Its companion app offers the most advanced set of automation features, too. The Roomba 694 does not match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, though, which features a bigger dirt compartment and lasts longer on charge, and comes with physical boundaries to keep it out of certain areas.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 robot vacuum is one of iRobot's most advanced models. It comes with a variety of features that set it apart from other robots, including advanced dirt detection and map-saving technology. It also has a powerful cleaning system and is compatible with Alexa. It is a fantastic option for those looking for an advanced robot vacuum that has high-quality cleaning performance and WiFi connectivity.
The 960 robot is a circular one that comes with two rubber brushrolls for stability and three casters wheels. It weighs 3.9kg, making it easy to carry up and down stairs. It can be purchased with docking stations or without, depending on your preferences. The docking station keeps the Roomba connected and charged even when it's not in use. The docking station is a practical and simple way to keep your robot clean and charged when it's not working.
iRobot created 960 to work on carpets and floors that are not bare. Its performance on hard surfaces is remarkable and it's able to remove pet hair. It also excels in picking up large pieces of debris like cat litter and cereal. It does not perform as well on carpets with a high pile. It can pick up pet hair as well as larger debris, but it has trouble with smaller particles such as sand. Some of the sand gets stuck between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test with the oats of quaker the 960 performed admirably, picking up most of the powder scattered. The robotic vacuum can maneuver around a wide variety of furniture and obstacles, and the circular design allows it to be tucked away under the legs of chairs. The 960 is compatible with Alexa and can be activated with voice commands. It can be programmed to auto return to its charging station.
The 960 requires some upkeep, including regular replacement of the filter, dust bin and the spinning brush. These parts should be replaced every couple of months to keep them in good condition. It is also recommended to clean the sensors in the dirt compartment on a regular basis. These parts will aid in making the Roomba run at its best and last longer if they are kept in good condition.
The 960 has some flaws, but overall, it is an excellent robotic vacuum. It's expensive but it's worth it if you want a robot that can clean well. It is also packed with features that make it a good choice for busy people. The iRobot App is simple to use and Roomba's cleaning schedule can be set. It's also available in a variety of finishes and colors, so you can choose to match it to your home decor.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba is the most sophisticated robotic cleaner in iRobot’s current lineup. The Roomba 980's complete suite of navigation sensors allows it to navigate under and around furniture, and along edges. robotvacuummops prevents it from falling down stairs. The multi-surface brushes sift dirt and debris off any kind of floor, while moving debris into the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology can record the surroundings when it moves, and creates visual landmarks to aid in recollecting where it's been and avoid hitting walls and objects. The camera also identifies dirty areas, which triggers the Roomba to automatically increase suction power and traverse the areas several times before moving forward.
A new feature added to the app by October 2019 lets users create digital Keep Out Zones that keep the Roomba from entering rooms where they want it to remain unaffected. This is a great addition to the Roomba 980's impressive list of features and will prove to be useful for many consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning session, Roomba 980 returns to its docking stations to recharge. This is the only robot in its class that comes with this feature. It allows you to let your robot work while you are away for long periods of time. Remote control capabilities in the app enables users to start, stop and schedule cleaning sessions from anywhere in the world.
The Roomba app is a joy to use and the interface is simple and easy to use. The main screen has a large clean button which can be activated by a single touch. The lower row of icons provides quick access to settings like cleaning preferences, weekly schedules and much more. You can link the app with your smart assistant to issue voice commands.
Issuing a command from the app isn't always an instant affair, though it could take a while for Roomba to understand your request. It's a frustrating flaw in an appliance that is so heavily dependent on its smart controls, and it's particularly egregious given that the 980 is so expensive.

As iRobot's flagship model, the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of machinery. Its high-powered cleaning power and battery life of two hours, and smart features make it among the top robot vacuums available. It's not as versatile as other models because it doesn't have a dedicated app and remote control. That said, the 980 is still a great alternative for anyone looking for a high-powered automated vacuum that takes the burden off of itself. Be sure to set aside a little extra money.