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The 8 Best Roomba Models

Derek Hales

Written By: Derek Hales

Updated on:

In this Roomba reviews guide we’re testing and comparing the full robot vacuum model line up from iRobot.

What’s the best Roomba out there? We’re going to talk through the pros, cons, and help arm you with the information you need to choose the best robot vacuum for your home.

With that said, let’s go again and jump right into it!

Best Roomba Overall

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Roomba S9+

The Roomba S9+ is arguably the most high-end robot vacuum ever built. It’s the newest model in the Roomba line-up and is the first to feature a squared front edge, which offers improved performance at edges / corners. In addition, the edge-to-edge brushroll increases the cleaning area it can cover in any given time. It scored a 99% in our cleaning tests. It’s equipped with a self-emptying dust bin which makes maintenance and usability incredibly easy. Is it expensive? Absolutely. But, it’s also easily the best Roomba you can buy.Check Price

This guide breaks down Roomba robot vacuums, jumping into each model and explaining similarities and differences to help you decide if Roomba deserves a spot in your home.

So without any further ado, let’s dive into the 8 best Roomba for 2023.

YouTube video

Roomba Comparison Chart

PRODUCT DETAILS

BEST OVERALL

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Roomba S9+
  • Price: $$$$
  • Run Time: 75 mins.
  • Brushroll: Advanced rubberized
Check Price

BEST CONVENIENCE

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Roomba i7+
  • Price: $$$$
  • Run Time: 75 mins.
  • Brushroll: Advanced rubberized
Check Price

BEST VALUE

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Roomba e5
  • Price: $$
  • Run Time: 90 mins.
  • Brushroll: Advanced rubberized
Check Price

BEST BUDGET

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Roomba 675
  • Price: $$
  • Run Time: 90 mins.
  • Brushroll: Bristle
Check Price
moderncastle-table-__imageRoomba 690
  • Price: $$
  • Run Time: 90 mins.
  • Brushroll: Bristle
Check Price

BEST LARGE FLOOR PLAN

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Roomba 980
  • Price: $$$
  • Run Time: 120 mins.
  • Brushroll: Advanced rubberized
Check Price
moderncastle-table-__imageRoomba 960
  • Price: $$$
  • Run Time: 75 mins.
  • Brushroll: Advanced rubberized
Check Price
moderncastle-table-__imageRoomba 890
  • Price: $$
  • Run Time: 90 mins.
  • Brushroll: Advanced rubberized
Check Price

Table of Contents

  1. Roomba Comparisons
  2. Best Roomba Overall
  3. Best Roomba for Pets
  4. Best Roomba Cleaning Performance
  5. Best Value
  6. Best Budget Roomba
  7. Best Roomba for Convenience
  8. Best Roomba for Large Floor Plans
  9. What are the best Roomba models?
  10. Which Roomba is right for me?

The Definitive Best Roomba Robots

  1. Best OverallRoomba S9+
    • The S9+ the best Roomba overall. It has exceptional performance, specs, and features for the most impressive clean. It’s expensive, but it’s also the undisputed best.
  2. Best Budget: Roomba 675
    • Roomba’s 675 is best if you want the best budget Roomba on the market — limited bells and whistles, but will get the job done. Roomba 690 is a close 2nd, being slightly more expensive, but including a virtual wall.
  3. Best Convenience:Roomba i7+
    • The i7+ the best if you want to plug the Roomba in and basically forget about it. The i7+ even self empties its dust bin. It’s the predecessor to the S9+, so it has many of the same features, but costs less.
  4. Best Value: Roomba e5
    • The Roomba E5 is best if you want exceptional cleaning performance, but don’t want to pay the premium for the i7+ or S9+.
  5. Best for Large Floor Plans:Roomba 980 
    • Roomba 980 is best if you have a large or complex floor plan and need a super long run time (Roomba 960 is a close 2nd in this category).

Compare Roomba Models Performance

Roomba S9+Roomba i7+Roomba e5Roomba 980Roomba 690Roomba 675Roomba 960Roomba 890
Roomba 980 robot vacuum reviewRoomba 690 robot vacuum reviewRoomba 960 robot vacuum reviewRoomba 890 robot vacuum review
Price$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$
Runtime~75 mins.~75 mins.~90 mins.~120 mins~90 mins~90 mins~75 mins~90 mins
Scheduled CleaningsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Self-ChargingYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Self-EmptyingYesYesNoNoNoNoNoNo
Drop DetectionYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes
Full Bin IndicatorYesYesYesYesNoNoYesYes
Recharge & ResumeYesYesNoYesNoNoYesNo
Digital Map ReportsYesYesNoYesNoNoYesNo
Digital Keep Out ZonesYesYesNoYesNoNoYesNo
Imprint LinkYesYesNoYesNoNoYesNo
Dirt DetectionAdvancedAdvancedAdvancedAdvancedBasicBasicAdvancedBasic
TechnologyS Seriesi Seriese SeriesAeroForceAeroVacAeroVacAeroForceAeroForce
Brushroll StyleDual rubberDual rubberDual rubberDual rubberBristleBristleDual rubberDual rubber
Brushroll WidthEdge-to-edgeStandard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard Standard
Wireless ControlSmartphone or voiceSmartphone or voiceSmartphone or voiceSmartphone or voiceSmartphone or voiceSmartphone or voiceSmartphone or voiceSmartphone or voice
NavigationAdvancedAdvancedAdvancedAdvancedBasicBasicAdvancedBasic
Virtual Walls (included)01121011
Score99%98%93%95%94%94%93%93%
PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
ReviewRead ReviewRead ReviewRead ReviewRead ReviewRead ReviewRead ReviewRead ReviewRead Review

If you’d like to see more in-depth comparisons please see our list below. We’re completed side-by-side comparisons on a litany of popular Roomba robots.

Best Roomba Overall – Roomba S9+

For the best Roomba overall, I’ve got to give it to the Roomba S9+. This robot vacuum has the most impressive features and although it’s expensive the intelligence and raw cleaning performance of the S9+ makes it an easy choice for the best Roomba on the market.

Roomba S9+ plus robot vacuum

The S9+ comes with self-emptying dust bin or it is also available with a standard dust bin at a slightly lower price. (Roomba S9).

What’s To Like

  • Edge-to-edge cleaning. The Roomba S9+ offers increased suction power over the Roomba i7+ as well as a new brushroll that offers edge-to-edge cleaning. The D-shaped body allows for this new brushroll and also improves cleaning performance along edges and corners.
  • Self-emptying dustbin. The S9+ has a self-emptying dustbin that works with the charging base. When it returns to charge up, the base will suck out the contents of the bin and it’s ready to clean again. The bag in the charging base can hold up to 30 loads of debris from the Roomba robot.
  • Excellent navigation. This robot vacuum has zoned-cleaning, keep out zones, and digital maps, making it easier to navigate around. It has a 75 minute run time and also has the ability to Recharge & Resume. This allows the vacuum to charge and continue the cycle for up to 3 rounds of cleaning.

What’s Not To Like

  • High price tag. As with anything that is exceptionally good, it can also be expensive. The Roomba S9+ is no exception to this rule.
  • Large footprint. If you need a compact Robot vacuum, the S9+ may not be the best option for you. Between the larger brushroll & body as well as the larger charging base, the S9 certainly aims to be noticed.

Best Roomba for Pets

One of the biggest pros of a robot vacuum is the “set-it-and-forget-it” that is perfect for pet owners. When thinking about pet owners, we looked at the following factors:

  • Price: Regardless of what kind of vacuum you’re looking for, price is going to be a factor for any purchase.
  • Run time: Long run time allows Roomba more time to clean the messes and the Recharge & Resume feature can extend that run time even longer.
  • Navigation: Navigation around pet beds and food bowl can be a nice feature for a Roomba that comes with virtual barriers.
  • Filtration: Roomba with AeroForce filtration received bonus points, compared to the older (less efficient) AeroVac filtration system.
  • Brushroll: The dual rubberized brushroll system is more effective at cleaning pet hair without the risk of tangling.

The following models below scored best when considering all of the factors above.

FactorS9+Roomba i7+Roomba e5Roomba 980
Roomba E5Roomba 980 review
Price$$$$$$$$$$$
Run Time~75 mins~75 mins~75 mins~120 mins
NavigationZoned cleaning, digital mapsZoned cleaning, digital mapsBasicZoned cleaning, digital maps
FiltrationAeroForce 2.0AeroForce 2.0AeroForce 2.0AeroForce 1.0
BrushrollEdge-to-edge; Dual RubberizedStandard; Dual RubberizedStandard; Dual RubberizedStandard; Dual Rubberized
Cleaning Performance99%99%99%95%
PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck PriceCheck Price

Still not sure what model is best? See our 4 Best Roomba for Pets guide here.

In addition to robot vacuums, Roomba also has a great robot mop that can be a handy tool for cleaning up after pets. The Braava 380t or the Braava Jet 240 are great options for hardwood or tile floor mopping.

For more info on properly cleaning wood, please see our best vacuum cleaner for hardwood floors buyer’s guide. We focus on vacuums there (no mops), but there are a number of great picks, including the #1 robot, Roomba’s S9+.

You can find our iRobot Braava mopping robot reviews and comparisons here:

RELATED: Looking for a mop that can seamlessly communicate with your robot vacuum? Check out Roomba’s newest robot mop, the Braava M6 or click here to read the full review. The m6 uses Imprint Link technology to work with the Roomba S9 or the i7 models. When the vacuum is done cleaning, the mop gets to work.

Best Roomba for Cleaning Performance

Specifically looking at performance, Roomba has quite a few models that earn the title. All of the Roomba reviews done here at Modern Castle are put through a series of 12 cleaning performance tests.

Roomba e5 robot vacuum review
Roomba e5 cleaning cereal

These tests are specifically looking at the amount of debris the vacuum can pick up on various flooring types.

We run tests on:

  1. Hardwoods
  2. Low Pile Carpet
  3. High Pile Carpet

And use a range of debris, include:

  1. Cereal
  2. Kitty Litter
  3. Rice
  4. Sugar
Cleaning test debris types
Testing Debris – From left to right: Rice (3 oz.), Kitty Litter (3 oz), Cereal (1 oz), Sugar (3 oz)

In the Roomba, lineup, here are the best-of-the-best, concerning performance:

Roomba S9+

99%

Read Review

Check Price

Roomba i7+

99%

Read Review

Check Price

Roomba e5

99%

Read Review

Check Price

Roomba 980

95%

Read Review

Check Price

Roomba 960

92%

Read Review

Check Price

Roomba 890

92%

Read Review

Check Price

Roomba 690

94%

Read Review

Check Price

Roomba 675

94%

Read Review

Check Price

Note: These results are based on an average score of all 12 tests, including all 3 floor types and all 4 debris types.

Best Value Roomba – Roomba e5

The Roomba e5 robot vacuum is one of the newest models introduced by iRobot and has a fantastic blend of features, performance, and price. It shares many similarities to the top-dollar Roomba i7 / i7+ in terms of specs and software, with a level of cleaning performance that is also similar.

Roomba e5 cleaning cereal on hardwood floor

Roomba e5 cleaning cereal on hardwood floor

The Roomba e5 has wifi connectivity so it can be controlled directly from your smartphone via the iHome app or using voice control when paired with an Amazon Alexa device.

What’s To Like

  • Long rung time. The Roomba e5 can run for up to 90 minutes without stopping. The e5 model does not come with the Recharge and Resume feature so once that 90 minutes is up, it will need to fully recharge before gearing up for another cleaning cycle.
  • Memory mapping. The Roomba e5 utilizes iAdapt navigation to clean each area. Since there is no on-board memory mapping, iAdapt is paired up with Memory Mapping, which helps the e5 to know where it is and identify where else it needs to go.
  • Advanced filtration. The Roomba e5 uses the advanced filter, identical to that of the i7 and Roomba i7+. The actual filter is much smaller than the older AeroForce filter. The dust bin is 0.5 L, which is the same size as the i7 vacuums. The dust bin is also washable.

What’s Not So Good

  • No on-board camera. The design of the Roomba e5 is simple. It lacks the central on-board camera, like what you’ll find with other advanced Roomba models (ie: Roomba 980 or Roomba i7+). This means no Keep Out Zones too.
  • No recharge & resume. There’s no Recharge & Resume feature, but using memory mapping technology, it can intelligently navigate the space with straighter lines and more logical patterns.

Other Top Recommendations

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Roomba S9+

The Roomba S9+ is certainly at a higher price point than the e5, but strictly considering what you get for your money, the S9 is packed with features, including a self-emptying dust bin, zoned cleaning, digital mapping, and the greatest suction power of any Roomba to date.Check Price
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Roomba i7+

Strictly considering value, the i7 is probably a slightly better value than the S9. It still has exceptional cleaning performance, zoned cleaning, digital mapping, and a self-emptying dust bin. Check Price

Best Budget Roomba – Roomba 675

The Roomba 675 is a base-level model, launched in 2018 by iRobot. It inclusion of wifi connectivity, alongside solid cleaning performance makes it one of the best budget robots on the market (Roomba or otherwise).

Roomba 675 robot vacuum - underside
Roomba 675 cleaning cereal

Roomba 675 has all the features you expect, including scheduling, charging station, and long run time. It notably does not include a virtual wall, but you can buy one here if want to add one. It’s a simple robot vacuum, but it still gets the job done.

What’s To Like

  • Long run time. The Roomba 675 has the same 90-minute run time as the Roomba 690 and Roomba e5. Like the other base-level models, there is no Recharge and Resume feature for extended run time, but 90 minutes is quite a long time to tackle most areas (depending on levels and complexity).
  • Wifi connectivity. Unlike older models, the Roomba 675 offers scheduled cleanings as well as hands-free use when paired with a smartphone or tablet. You can start, stop, or review cleaning cycles directly from your phone.

What’s Not So Good

  • Basic filtration system. The Roomba 675 uses the AeroVac filtration system, which is the more basic system of the two on the market today (AeroVac vs. AeroForce). It is a simpler type of filtration that is paired with a bristle style brushroll.
  • Basic navigation. The navigation on the Roomba 675 is basically identical to the Roomba 690. It has a “bump and continue” approach, slowly bumping its way around the home and turning around as it encounters obstacles.
  • No full bin indicator. The basic nature of this model means no full bin indicator light or notifier.

How do older Roombas navigate?

A sensor at the front of the vacuum helps the Roomba to identify obstacles around the area and edge sensors on the underside help the vacuum to avoid dangerous “drop zones”, for instance, lofted spaces or stairs.

iRobot iAdapt 1.0 cleaning navigation paths
Cleaning pattern on less advanced Roomba models

This system is built around the iAdapt 1.0 technology. Newer models operate on iAdapt 2.0 technology that has a way of sensing obstacles before bumping into them.

COMPARISON: Click here for a head-to-head match-up of Roomba 675 vs. 690.

Other Top Recommendations

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Roomba 690

The Roomba 690 robot vacuum is a good option for those looking for the same specs as the Roomba 675, but also need a virtual wall barrier. The barrier helps to block off areas you don’t want the Roomba messing with. This makes it easier for the 690 to navigate larger or complicated spaces.Check Price

Best Convenience Roomba – Roomba i7+

The Roomba i7+ is one of top-of-the-line Roomba that’s currently on the market. Cleaning performance is excellent and it has a self-emptying dustbin that saves you time and energy.

Roomba i7+ robot vacuum and smart base
Roomba i7+ robot vacuum and smart base

What’s To Like

  • Self-emptying dust bin. The on-board dust bin can automatically empty into the Clean Base up to 30 times before needing to be emptied. The bag is designed to be thrown away and replaced when full. However, if you’re thrifty you could easily empty it and reuse it.
  • Extendable run time. The Roomba i7+ can run for 75 minutes without stopping. With the Recharge & Resume feature, it can clean for over 2.5 hours (charging two times in the middle of the cycle).
  • Imprint Smart Mapping. The i7 and i7+ bring a new technology called Imprint Smart Mapping, which allows you to create named zones, like “kitchen”, “living room”, or “bedroom”. When paired with Amazon Alexa or Google Home you can also use voice control to say things like “Roomba, clean the kitchen” and it will get to work. Like the S9+, it also includes Keep Out Zones.
  • Advanced filter. The filtration system with the i7+ is also a big change for Roomba. Breaking away from the older AeroForce filter, the new filter that comes with the Roomba i7+ is about half the size of the previous filter. This filter takes up less space, is more efficient, and allows for a larger dust bin (0.5 L on the Roomba i7+ and only 0.3 L on the Roomba 980).
Roomba i7, i7+, and e5 filter
New filter on the Roomba i7+ / Roomba i7

What’s Not So Good

  • Very expensive. The Roomba i7 and i7+ are among the most expensive Roomba models available. If you go with either of these models, you’ll need to be willing to pay a pretty penny.
  • Need to replace dust bags. Although the dust bin in the vacuum itself is self-emptying and washable, the dust canister in the Clean Base is a physical bag. The bag can be emptied and reused, but periodically, it will need to be replaced.

Roomba i7+ vs. i7

Roomba I Robot Vacuum Product Small
Roomba i7+
  • Cleaning: 99%
  • Runs: 75 mins.
  • Recharge & Resume? Yes
  • Smart Maps? Yes
  • Empties bin? Yes
Roomba I Robot Vacuum Overall
Roomba i7
  • Cleaning: 99%
  • Runs: 75 mins.
  • Recharge & Resume? Yes
  • Smart Maps? Yes
  • Empties bin? No

Other Top Recommendations

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Roomba S9+

If you like the look and specs of the i7+, but need a little extra power boost, check out the Roomba S9. This model offers 40X the suction power of the 600 series and the i7 offers 10x the suction power. Check Price
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Roomba E5

Although it doesn’t have the same bleeding edge features like the i7 or S9, the e5 is still an excellent robot for convenience and worth the mention here.Check Price

Best Roomba for Large Floor Plans – Roomba 980

The Roomba 980 is a tier below the i Series in most cases, but the on-board camera is one feature that continues to make this model (and the Roomba 960) two of the best Roomba choices if you’re looking for excellent navigation across large floor plans or complicated layouts.

Roomba 980

What’s To Like

  • Extendable run time.  The Roomba 980 can run for up to 120 minutes without stopping. With the Recharge & Resume feature, it can clean for up to 6 hours (charging two times in the middle of the cycle).
  • Digital mapping. The Roomba 980 uses iAdapt 2.0 technology for advanced navigation that moves in more logical, straighter patterns. The 980 model can also create digital maps as it cleans, which helps it to know where it has been and areas that still need to be cleaned. As of October 2019, it also includes zoned cleaning and keep out zones.
  • Power boost. The Roomba 980 has a higher suction mode called Power Boost. Power Boost provides a little extra boost of suction when cleaning difficult spaces like dense carpet or high-traffic area rugs. The Roomba 980 also has advanced Dirt Detection for a better all-around deep clean.

What’s Not So Good

  • Struggles with fine debris on carpet.  During our cleaning tests, the Roomba 980 struggled with fine debris (sugar) on high pile carpet.
  • A little noisy. When used on low pile carpet or hardwood floors, this model was a little noisy, running around 70 dB from approximately 3′-0″ away.

Other Top Recommendations

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Roomba S9+

The S9 offers zoned cleaning and digital mapping capabilities. It has a run time of 75 minutes, but can also Recharge & Resume mid-cycle to keep cleaning up to 225 minutes.Check Price
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Roomba i7+

The Roomba i7 is another nice option for large floor plans. The D-shaped body style allows for a wider edge-to-edge cleaning path for more coverage with each pass. It has a 75-minute run time, Recharge & Resume, zoned cleaning and digital maps.Check Price

Roomba Comparisons: All Models Compared

Roomba S9+

Roomba S9+ is the current top of the line model. It includes the most features, the best navigation, and the best cleaning performance.

Roomba S9 cleaning high pile carpet
Roomba S9+ cleaning carpet

Features include:

  • Advanced sensors and cameras for digital mapping
  • Zoned cleaning
  • Keep out zones
  • The highest suction to date
  • Self-emptying dust bin

It scored a 99% on average across all of our cleaning tests. There is no question, it is the defecto best Roomba currently available. However, it’s also the most expensive.

The S9+ is also available without the self-emptying clean base as the S9 model, which is less expensive (while still maintaining most of the other features).

See our Roomba S9+ review for more information.

Roomba i7+

The Roomba i7+ is the 2nd best Roomba on the market (next to the S9+).

It includes all of the best bells and whistles that you’d want in a robot vacuum including:

  • Advanced navigation and sensors
  • Self-emptying dust bin
  • Exceptional suction
  • Keep out zones
  • Zoned cleaning
Roomba i7+ robot vacuum and smart base
Roomba i7+ robot vacuum and smart base

The i7+ also has one of the highest levels of cleaning performance across the entire Roomba lineup. Fine debris, like sugar, which is difficult for many robot vacuums was easily removed by the Roomba i7+ during our tests.

The i7 averaged 99% cleaning performance across all floor and debris types.

The self-emptying dust bin in the vacuum connects to the larger dust bin located within the charging base. In addition, the clean base can hold up to 30 loads from the i7+ robot vacuum, meaning less time emptying the dust bin.

See our complete Roomba i7+ review for more information.

Roomba i7

If you like the look and performance of the i7+, but aren’t quite ready to bite the bullet and splurge for the self-emptying dust bin, you may want to consider the Roomba i7.

Roomba i7+ robot vacuum
Roomba i7+ robot vacuum

The i7 model is the exact same robot vacuum as the i7+, but without the self-emptying the dust bin. Furthermore, if you use the i7 and ever decide that you would like to add this feature, it’s completely compatible.

You can purchase the Clean Base directly from iRobot.com and may be available from third-party retailers in the future as well.

Roomba e5

The Roomba e5 is the most budget-friendly model in Roomba’s updated model line. Price and feature-wise, it seems to be comparable to the Roomba 890, but the cleaning performance got a dramatic upgrade.

Roomba e5 cleaning cereal on hardwood floor
Roomba e5 cleaning cereal on hardwood floor

Just like the S9+ and i7+, sugar on high pile carpet is no match for the Roomba e5. Across all floor types and against all debris types, the e5 averaged a cleaning performance score of 99%.

All three models currently in the iSeries have the same advanced filtration system. Roomba doesn’t seem to give it a fancy name. However, it’s a clear improvement over the recent AeroForce and older AeroVac models.

The filter is smaller in the iSeries models, allowing for more efficiency as well as slightly larger dust bins.

See our complete Roomba e5 review for more information.

Frequent Asked Questions

Is Roomba 980 discontinued?

No, it is not. Contrary to what you might have heard, the Roomba 980 doesn’t seem to be discontinued. Although it’s no longer available for sale on the iRobot website, you can still find it at select retailers.

Launched in 2015, the iRobot Roomba 980 features WiFi, Smart Mapping technology, Cliff Detect sensors, and other cutting-edge features. Plus, it can run for up to two hours on a single charge. 

Is Roomba 690 discontinued?

The Roomba 690 is no longer available for sale on the manufacturer’s website. However, it can still be found at select retailers, such as Target, Lowe’s, and a small number of Amazon sellers.

Is Roomba 890 discontinued?

The iRobot Roomba 890 is only available at select retailers. You can no longer purchase it from the manufacturer’s website or Amazon store, but it doesn’t seem to be totally discontinued.

Roomba 900 Series

The 900 Series Roombas include robot vacuums that are one tier below the iSeries, but still highly advanced.

Instead of a centrally located “CLEAN” button, the 900 Series puts a navigational camera at the center of the unit. With this new technology, 900 Roomba models also can generate digital map reports, so you know exactly where it’s been cleaning.

All 900 Series Roombas are wifi-enabled to work seamlessly with the iRobot Home app.

Roomba 980

Roomba 980 robot vacuum review

The Roomba 980 includes all of the features of the Roomba 960 model, but also introduces “Power Boost,” which is an automatic temporary increase in suction power that you can use when cleaning dense carpets or thick area rugs.

See our complete Roomba 980 review for more information.

Roomba 960

Roomba 960 robot vacuum review

The Roomba 960 was the first Roomba to venture away from the center CLEAN button configuration. Compared to the 800 Series, it has a longer run time, is better equipped to clean multiple rooms, and can recharge and restart itself up to 3 times to complete larger cleaning jobs.

See our complete Roomba 960 review for more information.

October 2019 Update – iRobot recently pushed an over-the-air update to their 900 series robots, adding Keep Out Zones. This feature, which is also available on the S9+, i7+, and Braava m6 robots, allows you to create digital zones that you do not want Roomba to clean.

Roomba 800 Series

The 800 Series Roombas are one step below the 900 Series models. Without the advanced central camera, the 800 Series Roombas lack the advanced navigation and digital mapping that the 900 Series Roombas have.

They do have the advanced AeroForce filtration system though, something that is lacking in the 700 and 600 Series Roombas.

The 800 Series Roombas have a mix of wifi-enabled and non-wifi-enabled models.

Roomba 890

Roomba 890

The Roomba 890 is a considerable step up over the 600 Series. It includes improved roller brushes and advanced filtration system, called the AeroForce. The Roomba 890 still features the classic central “CLEAN” button in the middle of the unit.

See our complete Roomba 890 review for more information.

Roomba 880

Roomba

The Roomba 880 does not have wifi connection. However, it does include improved navigation and the ability to clean multiple rooms in one cleaning cycle. Performance-wise, it’s similar to the 890, but without the smart features like wifi app connection or the ability to connect to Amazon Alexa.

Roomba 870

roomba 870 robot vacuum

The Roomba 870 lacks the Smart features like wifi app control or the ability to connect to Amazon Alexa, but it does include improved roller brushes and the AeroForce cleaning system.

See our complete Roomba 870 review here.

Roomba 860

Roomba 860 robot vacuum review

The Roomba 860 robot vacuum includes the AeroForce cleaning system with the advanced dual-rubberized brushrolls. You can schedule cleanings or press “CLEAN” for a manual cycle.

The 860 doesn’t seem to be totally discontinued, but it’s also not widely available.

Roomba 700 Series

The Roomba 700 Series includes robot vacuums that are a bit more rare and not widely available at many retailers.

For whatever reason, vacuums from the 600 Series are still popular for the budget-friendly cleaner and vacuums from the 800 Series are popular for those looking for a boost in performance, but there are not many models lasting from the 700 Series.

This could be due to its lack of differentiation from the 600 Series. Although each model varies slightly, the biggest change that the 700 Series brought is the integration of a full bin indicator light.

A nice add, but not exactly a real game-changer in terms of cleaning performance.

Despite their availability, here are some quick specs on 700 Series Roombas if you happen to come across one:

  • Roomba 790: The Roomba 790 has a metallic blue body and is marketed specifically to clean up after pets. It offers iAdapt 1.0 navigation, dirt detection, three virtual wall barriers, the older AeroVac filtration, and a remote control.
  • Roomba 780: The Roomba 780 uses iAdapt 1.0 navigation, dirt detect technology, and two virtual wall “Lighthouses.” It has the AeroVac filtration, and a remote control.
  • Roomba 770: The Roomba 770 would be most comparable to the Roomba 650. It has dual HEPA filters, an additional virtual wall and dust bin notification (when full). The dual-filter system was a design that came after the AeroVac but before the AeroForce. The disadvantages of the dual filter would mean twice the filter replacement costs.

Roomba 600 Series

The 600 Series Roombas are the most basic Roombas on the market but make no mistake; these budget-friendly robots can still provide a powerful clean.

The Roomba 614 is the base model of current Roombas on the market. While these 600 Series models don’t have fancy navigation, advanced filtration, or full bin indicators, they can still get the job done for many homes.

Roomba 690

Roomba 690 robot vacuum review

The Roomba 690 is budget, but featured-packed robot vacuum. The 690 offers excellent performance with wifi connectivity and 90-minute run time. The Roomba 690 is a nice step up if you’re looking for the added Smart features, but don’t want the higher price tags of the newest models.

Check out our complete Roomba 690 review here.

Roomba 675

Roomba 675 robot vacuum

The Roomba 675 is basically the Roomba 690 with a slightly different dust bin, no virtual wall, and all black top layer. Beyond that, performance, specs, and features are substantially the same.

Check out our complete Roomba 675 review here and our Roomba 671 review here.

Roomba 650

Roomba

The Roomba 650 would be comparable to the 614 model. It’s basic as far as performance and systems, but it has scheduling. The Roomba 650 lacks wifi connection, but if app control is not a deal-breaker for you, choosing the 650 could save you a few dollars.

Check out our Roomba 650 review here.

Roomba 614

Roomba 614

The Roomba 614 is a basic model, but self-charges and has dirt detection, drop detection, and basic navigation capabilities. This model does not offer scheduled cleanings or wifi connectivity.

See our Roomba 614 vs. 690 comparison review here.

Roomba 500 Series

The Roomba 500 Series is going back pretty far in the Roomba vault.

These models, although originally popular, have now been basically discontinued.

However, we’ve still included some high-level information on several of the most popular models in case you want to pick up a used one.

  • Roomba 560: The Roomba 560 is certainly one of the older models on the market. It has the older AeroVac filtration system and the old style of virtual barrier (not dual-mode). If you’re looking for a similar model that is more up to date, I would recommend the Roomba 650 robot vacuum.
  • Roomba 550: The Roomba 550 robot vacuum is also widely discontinued. It uses the AeroVac filtration system, has drop detection, a self-charging base, and dirt sensors. The 550 also includes three replacement filters and two barrier walls (the older style).
  • Roomba 530: The Roomba 530 includes two virtual walls, drop detection, bristle-style brushrolls, dirt detection, and self-charging / docking.

Which Roomba is Right for Me?

When you’re ready to select the Roomba that is right for you, you’ll want to ask yourself a few quick questions. In summary, you can follow the guide below to find the best Roomba for your needs.

The Best Value

If you’re looking for the best balance of price and performance, I would recommend the Roomba e5. This model was recently released in Spring 2019, has up-to-date software and good features, but at a price point that is compellingly reasonable.

The bottom of the e5 contains the rolling brushes, wheels, spinning brush, and dustbin
Roomba e5 brushroll and underside

The main features that it lacks is the on-board camera and digital mapping. That being said, if you’re ok with it being a little more random, it will still get the job done.

Click here to check the price on the Roomba e5.

The Best Deal

If you’re looking for simply the best deal, I would recommend the Roomba 690 (or the Roomba 675 if you need to save a few more bucks). This vacuum uses the older style bristle brushroll and lacks digital mapping, but if you’re looking for a robot that just clean and cleans, this one is for you.

As an advantage of the Roomba 690 over the Roomba 675, is that the 690 includes a virtual barrier for better navigation.

irobot roomba 690 parts accessories
Roomba 690: 1) virtual wall barrier, 2) charging station, 3) cleaning tool, and 4) filter

For the price, it has surprisingly good cleaning performance. It also has more modern features like wifi connectivity for smartphone / app control as well as scheduled cleanings. As a result, this can produce improved cleaning performance.

Click here to check the price on the Roomba 690.

The Best Performance

If you’re looking for the best and newest features, I would recommend the Roomba S9+ or Roomba i7+ (if you need to save some money).

This series has a range of prices, the e5 being the most budget-friendly, but each of these models uses the most advanced filtration and an upgraded lime green dual brushroll.

Warranties on tech products

This includes the following models:

For simple differences in features, consult the guide below:

  • Edge-to-edge brushroll: Roomba S9.
  • Self-emptying dust bin: Roomba S9+ or Roomba i7+.
  • Advanced digital mapping and zoned cleaning: Roomba S9 or Roomba i7. These models can also be paired with a Roomba robot mop for a whole home cleaning team.
  • If you don’t need digital mapping and want to save some cash, go with the Roomba e5.

What about the Roomba 980 and 960?

For advanced navigation and control with large floor plans, you could go with the iSeries or the 900 Series. Both of these models include virtual barriers and are compatible with the smartphone app for remote control.

iRobot Roomba smartphone app
iRobot Roomba smartphone app

The 900 Series offers some advantages by including more virtual barriers. These can be used to block off straight paths up to 10′ long or radial areas up to 4′ in diameter.

The Roomba 980 comes with 2 virtual barriers and the Roomba 960 comes with one. You can purchase additional barriers from Roomba direct or through a third-party vendor.

Still have questions?

All this information just a little overwhelming? Still not sure which Roomba is right for you?

Drop us comment down below about your needs and we’ll be more than happy to help recommend the best vacuum for you. Above all, we want to help you find the perfect robot vacuum for your needs.

Updates

  • October 29, 2019 – Overhauled the page with a new layout, updated / verified our recommendations, removed old information, and added need and improved info where needed.
  • January 25, 2019 – Updated page formatting. Added / corrected information based on Roomba changes and new models.
  • October 18, 2018 – Added information about the Roomba i7+, i7, and e5. Updated outdated information. Cleaned up several formatting issues.
  • October 15, 2018 – Made a few small formatting changes, added a new updated comparison table to the top of the page.
  • August 28, 2018 – Added Roomba 675 to top comparison table. More Roomba 675 information coming soon.
  • June 21, 2018 – Overhauled the page with better formatting, better analysis, more information, and better images.
  • May 15, 2018 – Deleted a section on 3rd party reviews (we’ll be revising at a later date)
  • November 14, 2017 – Original version of the page launched.

About Derek Hales

Derek HalesDerek Hales is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ModernCastle.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, She Knows, and other major publications. Derek has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Kansas State University. Hales has been testing and reviewing products for the home since 2014.