Blog entry by Annie Coombes
Robot Vacuum Reviews
Robot vacuums can reduce the frequency of cleaning, but they cannot replace plug-in models. To keep them in top robot vacuum condition requires emptying the dust bin following each cleaning session, wiping down the sensors and cameras occasionally and changing filters and side brushes when required.
It has a decent-sized bin and an automatic emptying. Its obstacle avoidance is still tangled in cords and socks, and it misses dirt on baseboards.
iRobot Roomba 694"
The Roomba 694 is an entry-level robot vacuum that has two brush rollers (one bristle and one rubber) to clean dirt, dust and other debris from bare floors. The Roomba 694 also includes a rotating brush that can clean up debris from walls and corners. The Roomba 694 is fairly effective at picking up pet hair, but it may leave some in carpet fibers if you let it run through multiple cleaning cycles.
The 694 does a decent job at maneuvering itself, and it isn't a problem to maneuver around obstacles like cords or furniture that aren't high enough. It doesn't have the most advanced obstacle-avoidance systems and the battery could be drained before it can return to dock.
It's still a good option when you're looking for an inexpensive robot vacuum that's simple to operate. It can be controlled manually using the 'Clean "Dock" and the 'Spot Clean' buttons on the top of its cover or by using voice commands transmitted through your preferred voice assistant. It is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and it can be used to follow Siri commands from iOS Shortcuts.
Download the iRobot Home App on your tablet or smartphone to control the Roomba 694 remotely. The app lets you design custom cleaning schedules and also monitor the robot's status. You can also make use of the app to stop a cleaning job in progress, if needed. The iRobot app can also issue error alerts if the robot has a problem for instance, if he is pushed into an opening in the furniture.
While the Roomba 694 does a good job of navigating itself around the house, it is not designed for stairs or narrow pathways. It does not do a good job vacuuming low pile carpets leaving behind numerous tufts and hair clumps. If you have lots of carpet with low pile in your home, you might want to consider an alternative robot vacuum.
This model, unlike the Roomba S9 which has an onboard HEPA Filter, does not have an best automatic floor cleaner bin that emptys itself. Its dirt compartment inside is moderately sized however, you'll need empty it after each cleaning session. The iRobot Home App lets you review the history of your Roomba cleaning tasks. This includes the time and date they were executed as well as the method used to initiate them (app, scheduling or physical buttons on the robot), the duration and the completed status.
The iRobot is superior to the Coredy R550, because it is more robustly built and has lower recurring costs, and a bigger dustbin. It also charges faster, can navigate around obstacles like electrical cords and is more efficient on plain floors as well as on high-pile rug. The companion app comes with the most advanced set of automation features, too. The Roomba 694 doesn't match the Shark IQ robotic vacuum, however, it comes with a larger dirt compartment and lasts longer on charge, and includes physical boundary strips to ensure it stays out of certain rooms.
iRobot Roomba 960
The Roomba 960 is one of the most advanced robot best vacuums from iRobot. It is equipped with many features that set it apart from other robots. They include advanced dirt detection technology as well as maps-saving technology. It also has a robust cleaning system and is compatible with Alexa. This is a great choice for those looking for an advanced robot vacuum that has WiFi connectivity and superior cleaning capabilities.
The 960 robot is a circular one that comes with two rubber brushrolls to ensure stability, and three caster wheels. It weighs 3.9kg which makes it easy to carry up and down stairs. It can be purchased with a docking station or without one, based on your preferences. The docking station keeps the Roomba plugged in and charged even when it's not in use. The docking station is a convenient and simple way to keep your robot tidy and fully charged when it's not working.
iRobot created 960 to work on carpet and floors that are not bare. Its performance on hard surfaces is impressive, and it can easily remove pet hair. It is also good in picking up large pieces of debris like kitty litter and cereal. It doesn't perform as well on high-pile carpet however. It is able to pick up pet hair and larger debris. But it struggles with smaller particles, like sand. Some of the sand gets stuck between the brushes and the dirt compartment.
In a test using Quaker Oats the 960 performed admirably, picking up most of the scattered powder. The robot vacuum can maneuver over obstacles and furniture. The circular shape allows it to fit under the legs of chairs. The 960 is Alexa compatible and can be controlled with voice commands. It can be programmed to return automatically to its charging station.
The 960 requires some care. This includes regular replacement of the dust bin, filter and spinning brush. These components should be replaced every few months to ensure they are in good condition. Also, you should clean your dirt compartment sensors regularly. Maintaining these parts in good working order will keep the Roomba running at peak performance and make it last longer.
The 960 is an excellent robotic vacuum, but it has some shortcomings. It's quite expensive, but worth the money if you are looking for a robot with outstanding cleaning performance. It also has a wide range of features that make it a good alternative for those with busy lifestyles. The iRobot App is simple to use and the Roomba's schedule for cleaning can be set. It comes in a range of finishes and colors, to allow you to match the Roomba to your decor.
Roomba 960 by iRobot
The Roomba is the most sophisticated robotic vacuum cleaner Commercial cleaner available in iRobot's current lineup. Its extensive set of navigation sensors allows it to navigate between furniture and along edges, while Cliff Detect prevents it from falling down stairs. Its multi-surface brushes grab dirt and debris from any type of floor, while it accelerates debris to the suction channel.
iRobot's vSLAM technology records the surrounding as it moves, forming visual landmarks to help it remember where it's been and avoid hitting walls and objects. The camera also spots dirtier areas, triggering the Roomba to automatically increase suction power and traverse these zones several times before moving forward.
Users can set up digital Keep Out zones that prevent the Roomba accessing areas of the home that they do not want it to enter. This feature was added to the app in October of 2019. This is a welcome addition to the already impressive set of features found on the Roomba 980, and should prove to be a useful tool for many consumers.
After a two-hour cleaning time, the Roomba 980 automatically returns to its docking station to recharge. This is the only robot in its class with this feature. It allows you to let your robot work when you're away for extended periods of time. The app's remote control functionality lets you start and stop cleaning sessions from anywhere in the world.
The Roomba app is enjoyable to use and the interface is simple and easy to use. The main screen is adorned with the big clean button that can be activated by a single touch, and the lower row of icons gives quick access to settings such as cleaning preferences, a weekly schedule, and more. The app can be linked with your smart assistant to give voice commands.
Issuing a command from the app isn't always a quick affair, though it could take a while for Roomba to be able to recognize your request. It's a frustrating problem for an appliance that is so dependent on its intelligent controls. And it's especially egregious considering the 980 costs so much.
As iRobot's flagship model the Roomba 980 is an impressive piece of equipment. Its powerful cleaning power, two-hour battery life, and a variety of smart features make it a top pick among the top robot vacuums available. It's not as flexible as some of its competitors because it doesn't have an app that is specifically designed and remote control. The 980 is a great option for those looking for a powerful vacuum that can take care of itself. Be prepared to spend some more.