Rating of the best iRobot robotic vacuum cleaners: review of models, reviews + what to look for

In the crazy pace of life, many of us simply do not have enough time for everyday life, especially for long and tedious cleaning. It's worth considering purchasing a smart, high-tech home assistant.The best offer on the market is considered to be iRobot robotic vacuum cleaners, which carefully and thoroughly clean floor coverings from dust and debris.

The article we presented describes in detail the best robotic cleaners of this brand. We have provided the technical characteristics of the devices and listed the functionality. In order to facilitate the selection and comparison of units, we compiled a rating based on reviews from equipment owners.

Features of iRobot brand robots

Since the introduction of the first model, iRobot equipment has acquired a lot of different functions. Representatives of the latest generations have learned to create thoughtful work routes, recognize obstacles with high accuracy, and return to the platform independently.

Recharging time has been reduced from 12 to 2 hours. iRobot Corporation devices began to work with minimal human intervention.

Main advantages of the equipment

The advantages of the company’s robots are confirmed by reviews of real users, including the following nuances:

1. Extensive range with an optimal set of programs and functions.
2. Long battery life.
3. Productive cleaning of large areas.
4. Effectively remove debris from a variety of floor coverings.
5. Cleaning in hard-to-reach places.
6. Defining cleaning boundaries using the system "Virtual wall".
7. Saving the route and remembering the location of interference.
8. Possibility of remote control from the application in the latest modifications.

In addition, consumers note the unique technology iAdapt. It allows the robot to quickly analyze space. When he gets to work, a set of touch sensors is responsible for his safety.

Devices with DirtDetect technology can focus on particularly dirty areas. By detecting such areas, the robot spends more time on them and increases suction power.

Also important is the fact that when moving around the house, the brand’s robotic vacuum cleaners do not get tangled in wires and cords. This is possible thanks to the implementation of an anti-tangling system by the developers. If the robot touches a cable, the brushes stop rotating until it is freed.

Powerful filters HEPAinstalled in vacuum cleaners, take care of the quality of indoor air. The filter element prevents small debris, hair and dust from entering the room back into the room, blocking it in the dust receptacle.

In general, from customer reviews it is clear that the robots of the American brand rarely fail and stand out for their interesting design, excellent navigation and good assembly.

Negative nuances of these vacuum cleaners

Despite the huge list of advantages of Airobot vacuum cleaners, there are also some points that cause dissatisfaction among users:

1. Some robot models are difficult to clean carpets with long fibers.
2. Certain devices have restrictions for use in wet areas.
3. Washing vacuum cleaners exhibit rather low traffic.
4. Not all devices are designed for local cleaning.

It must be taken into account that when starting from a location other than the station, the device may not find the base on its own after it completes its work.

Owners of robot models with fluff brushes complain that caring for them involves many nuances. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning working units, it makes sense to consider options with silicone rollers

The problem with finding a charging station also arises if the process is interrupted due to various factors: tangling in cords, full filling of the dust container, accidental overturning, etc.

Functional features of iRobots

The legendary iRobot brand has existed for more than two decades. During this time, the company has earned an excellent reputation, which is directly reflected in the quality of each piece of equipment that goes on sale.

Therefore, when you set your sights on robot vacuum cleaners of this brand, you don’t have to worry about the quality of the model you like - it meets consumer expectations by default.

When choosing units from iRobot, you should take into account that the equipment is intended for use in domestic conditions - we are not talking about cleaning construction waste and dust deposits in the garage. There is specialized equipment for these purposes.

Also, when choosing, you should pay attention to the following important circumstances:

• cleaning modes — you should choose the model that best corresponds to the planned scope of tasks;
• power — the higher this indicator, the better the garbage will be absorbed;
• surface to be treated - not all models are universal and can cope with cleaning floors and caring for fleecy coverings, for which it is recommended to purchase model for carpets;
• duration of work — you should compare the capabilities of the brand model you like with the actual area where it will have to be cleaned;
• control type — the smarter the robot and the more control options, the higher its price tag;
• equipment — you should immediately check the availability of consumables (replacement wipes, brushes, etc.) in your region of residence;
• dimensions — the height of the body should be 0.5-1 cm lower than the bottom of the lowest furniture in the house, including heating radiators, to prevent the robot from getting stuck.

Any vacuum cleaner from the iRobot brand that suits your individual requirements will always come with a user manual and warranty. It is important to check their availability to protect yourself from counterfeiting. As for control, programmable models will be more expensive.

You also need to pay attention to the type of robot - not all models from the iRobot company suck up dust and have a garbage collector in their design. Some dust is simply collected using a dry/wet cloth. These are floor polishers.

A robot floor polisher is an ideal option for caring for parquet, tile or laminate floors. It will carefully collect dust, wool and other debris with a dry cloth, and, if desired, refresh the surface with a damp cloth. It's true that he can't handle carpets.

Also, before purchasing, you should provide a place to store the robot and charge the battery. This point requires special attention - after all, some models are charged directly, others go to the base, and others have the ability to remove the battery and charge it separately while the vacuum cleaner is in the closet.

The most important thing is to decide on the necessary functions so that they are actually used. And don’t overpay for extra ones.Not all owners use all the capabilities of their model, choosing the optimal mode for daily cleaning.

TOP 8 popular brand robot vacuum cleaners

The iRobot product range includes three lines of vacuum cleaners. Among the proposed models of smart cleaning equipment, you can easily choose the appropriate option for office space, apartment, house or cottage.

Model #1 - iRobot Roomba 980

One of the latest top models of the brand, costing about 54,000 rubles. Equipped with an innovative control system.

Roomba 980 has a built-in Wi-Fi unit, thanks to which you can control the operation of the device through a special application on your smartphone without being at home. In this way, both initial settings and subsequent changes to parameters are performed.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 3.95 kg;
• power supply – Li-ion battery 3300 mAh;
• type of cleaning – dry;
• modes – general/local/according to a given schedule;
• dust container volume – 1 l;
• Battery life – 120 minutes;
• time required for recharging – 180 minutes;
• area coverage – 100 sq. m.;
• noise level – 60 dB;
• supported coverings - carpets, tiles, linoleum, laminate.

The vacuum cleaner uses patented technologies for mapping and instant orientation in space. Before starting work, the room is scanned through the built-in camera.

When moving onto the carpet, the Carpet Boots function is activated, increasing the suction power. If a heavily polluted area is encountered along the way, a sensor is turned on, focusing the device’s efforts in the problem area. Following this, a map is formed, which is needed to build a route and avoid obstacles.

The equipment monitors the direction of movement, remembers the path and the last cleaning point.The device is equipped with rubber rollers that perfectly clean any surface without picking up hair, threads or wool. Side brushes are good at collecting debris near furniture, on baseboards and in corners.

The Roomba 980 robot often participates in comparative tests of leading models from different manufacturers. According to research results, the device is always among the top three winners.

The vacuum cleaner is capable of fully cleaning several rooms located on the same floor. It does not get tangled in wires, detects the edges of stairs, and overcomes thresholds up to 19 mm high. Having completed its work, the robot independently goes to the base for subsequent recharging.

Model #2 - iRobot Roomba 960

A robot vacuum cleaner similar in functionality to the leader in the rating. Its average price is slightly lower - 45,000 rubles. Roomba 960 is also controlled via a smartphone from anywhere, builds maps, draws up a cleaning plan, and has advanced navigation.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 4 kg;
• power supply – Li-ion battery 2130 mAh
• type of cleaning – dry;
• modes – general/local/scheduled;
• dust container volume – 1 l;
• battery life – 75 minutes;
• time required for recharging – 180 minutes;
• area coverage – 150 sq. m.;
• noise level – 60 dB;
• supported coverings - carpets, tiles, linoleum, laminate.

In automatic mode, the entire free area is cleaned; when the local function is turned on, contaminated areas come under special control. The Roomba 960 comes with an ingenious Virtual Wall feature that allows you to limit the amount of space you can use for your vacuum cleaner.

Unlike the 980 model, the vacuum cleaner does not have the Carpet Boots option, which improves the quality of cleaning carpets. The main brushes of the device look like silicone scrapers.

The HEPA filter traps small dust particles, preventing them from re-entering the surrounding air. The device alerts you to problems that arise with sound alerts.

It is possible to additionally enable the cleaning function along the walls, and configure automatic suspension of work after the dust collector becomes clogged. When the battery runs out, the robot goes to the substation, and after recharging is complete, it continues cleaning.

Model #3 - iRobot Roomba 886

The latest representative of the 800 series of robotic vacuum cleaners from iRobot Roomba 886. The manufacturer has equipped the model with an improved dust collection system AeroForce and improved brush design, which greatly simplifies the maintenance of the cleaning module. On average, the device costs about 37,000 rubles.

Roomba 886, depending on the active mode, moves around the entire room or cleans a limited space. It is controlled using a remote control or a button on the top cover of the case.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 3.8 kg;
• power supply – Ni-MH battery 3000 mAh;
• dry cleaning only;
• modes – general/local;
• dust container volume – 0.5 l;
• auto work – 180 minutes;
• Requires 180 minutes to recharge;
• area coverage – 100 sq. m.;
• noise level – 60 dB;
• coverings for work - carpets, linoleum, parquet, tiles.

Using indicators obtained from sensors, the device estimates the area of ​​the room and independently selects a route. Thanks to the air accelerator, the vacuum cleaner has increased suction power. At the outlet of the garbage disposal, the air is purified by a highly efficient HEPA filter.

Technology helps the robot navigate in space and remove contaminants in hard-to-reach areas Wall-Following.

A laser rangefinder and an option that evaluates differences in height protect the equipment from falling, ensuring its safe operation. The rubberized edges of the case prevent damage to interior items and furniture.

Model #4 - iRobot Roomba 681

A mid-class modification with a good range of functionality. Roomba 681, compared to previous options, attracts with a more affordable price - up to 26,000 rubles. A distinctive feature of the modification is its updated design, made in techno style.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 3.6 kg;
• power supply – Li-ion battery 2130 mAh;
• cleaning - dry;
• modes – general/local;
• dust collector – 0.5 l;
• Autonomous operation within 180 minutes;
• it takes 180 minutes to recharge;
• working area within 80 sq. m.;
• noise level – 65 dB;
• coverings – low-pile carpets, linoleum, parquet, tiles.

The robot vacuum cleaner model 681 operates using a three-level cleaning system. A blade-type scraper sweeps away debris, brushes rotating in different directions direct it into the dust collector, and a vacuum tube sucks up the remaining dirt.

The device remembers the location of objects, maneuvers during cleaning, and does not fall or turn over thanks to iAdapt technology and built-in sensors. The anti-tangle system prevents it from getting stuck in lint, cords and wires.

At the last stage of the cycle, the air is filtered from pollen, allergens, and small dust particles. Having completed the cleaning cycle, the robot goes to the charging base.

Model #5 - iRobot Roomba 616

The basic modification costs about 20,000 rubles and offers a standard set of functions. During the cleaning process, Roomba 616 itself determines the trajectory, moving in a spiral, zigzag, or in a random order.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 3.6 kg;
• power supply – Ni-MH battery 2200 mAh;
• type of cleaning – dry;
• modes – normal;
• dust container volume – 0.5 l;
• Autonomous operation – 60 minutes;
• time required for recharging – 180 minutes;
• area coverage – 60 sq. m.;
• noise level – 60 dB;
• supported coverings - short-pile carpets, linoleum, parquet, tiles.

Rubber and lint brushes remove debris well in any area, and the built-in filter prevents hair and dust from returning to the room.

On one charge, the robot manages to clean several rooms. Compact dimensions allow it to easily penetrate under low furniture. To make it easier to control movement, you can additionally purchase a convenient IR remote control.

Area of ​​operation of the device Roomba 616 limited using the virtual wall function. This model does not have an indicator indicating when the dust container is full; the device can continue to operate when the dust container is full.

Model #6 - iRobot Braava Jet 240

Equipment from the Braava series stands out among other vacuum cleaners due to the possibility of wet cleaning. Braava Jet 240 - a universal washing robot costing about 16,000 rubles. It is suitable for kitchens, bathrooms and other small spaces.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 1.25 kg;
• power supply – Li-ion battery 1960 mAh;
• type of cleaning – wet/wash/wipe with a dry cloth;
• battery life – 240 minutes;
• time required for recharging – 120 minutes;
• area coverage – for wet cleaning 30 sq. m., dry – 60 sq. m.;
• noise level – 40 dB;
• supported coverings - wood, laminate, stone, tile, linoleum.

The vacuum cleaner works without filters and brushes. It has a simple control system, integrates with the manufacturer's application iRobot HOME. For comfortable transportation, the device is equipped with a convenient handle.The fundamentally different square-shaped design and compact dimensions make it possible to clean hard-to-reach areas.

For each type of cleaning, the robot uses different napkins, which can be pre-impregnated with detergents and fragrances. Caring for the equipment is simple: just drain the remaining liquid from the reservoir and take out the used napkin.

Well-thought-out navigation helps the device to navigate well in space and quickly find a base to replenish the battery charge. Sensors prevent rollovers and falls. The model's movement is limited "virtual wall".

Model #7 - iRobot Braava 380T

The Braava series robot maintains the ideal cleanliness of the floor surface, destroying a maximum of harmful microorganisms and bacteria living in the room. iRobot Braava 380T is a representative of robot floor polishers. It differs from other representatives of the iRobot brand model range by the presence of an aqua filter.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 1.8 kg;
• power supply – NiMH battery 2000 mAh;
• battery life – 240 min;
• type of cleaning – dry and wet;
• time required for recharging – 120 minutes;
• area coverage - not specified;
• noisiness – not specified;
• Supported coatings are hard, water-resistant surfaces.

Features of this model: dust is not sucked in, but collected on a dry or damp cloth, which should be attached to the panel before starting the vacuum cleaner, and the panel should be installed in the lower part of the body, following the instructions included in the kit.

Also included is a Pro-Clean panel with dispenser. cleaning solution, which ensures constant moistening of the napkin. It is used if wet cleaning is necessary.

The iRobot Braava 380T robot uses the NorthStar navigation system - cubes that build maps of the room. But for sequential cleaning of several rooms, additional equipment is required. cubes.

To protect against damage when colliding with obstacles, the vacuum cleaner body is equipped with a soft bumper. There are also optical sensors that recognize obstacles and changes in height, protecting the device from collisions and falls.

As for the advantages of this model, the owners first of all call it excellent cleaning - the device maintains cleanliness in a room without carpets almost perfectly, although the trajectory of its movements raises questions. Another advantage is its compact dimensions and quiet operation.

Users consider the main disadvantages to be the absence of a virtual wall, as well as the fact that the vacuum cleaner does not charge itself and is not friendly with carpets.

Model #8 - iRobot Braava 390T

A budget model designed for wet and dry cleaning of hard surfaces closes the rating of robotic vacuum cleaners from the Airobot brand. Its average price on the market is 19,000 rubles.

Braava 390T is another representative of floor-washing floor polishers. It is able to carefully and delicately remove dirt from various surfaces. And the compact size of the robot gives more room for maneuvers.

Main characteristics:

• weight – 1.8 kg;
• power supply – Li-ion battery 2000 mAh;
• type of cleaning – dry/wet;
• battery life – 240 minutes;
• time required for recharging – 120 minutes;
• area coverage – for wet cleaning 32 sq. m., dry – 93 sq. m.;
• noise level – 36 dB;
• supported coverings - wood, laminate, stone, tile, linoleum.

The navigation system of a smart vacuum cleaner contains a special beacon that is installed at a height in the room.Through it, the device receives data about the space and determines its own location.

The robot starts cleaning in open areas and then moves on to more difficult-to-reach areas. During dry cleaning, it moves in parallel, while during wet cleaning, it moves along a herringbone path. After the cycle ends, the polisher goes into sleep mode.

On the front panel of the design there are indicators informing about the selected mode, charge level, and completion of work. The robot vacuum cleaner comes with a washable and reusable cloth.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Useful recommendations for choosing robotic vacuum cleaners from the happy owner of one of the representatives of this type of equipment:

After purchasing a robot vacuum cleaner, you no longer have to devote time to cleaning. The smart assistant will do all the work on its own. In order for equipment to serve for a long time and properly, you should periodically arrange maintenance for it and empty the filled dust collector on time.

Tell us about how you chose an iRobot robot vacuum cleaner to maintain order in your own home/apartment. Share what was the decisive criterion for you to make an informed purchase. Please leave comments, ask questions, post photos on the topic of the article in the block form below.