Roomba 960 vs i7: Smart Navigation plus Cameras for Efficient Cleaning
The Roomba 960 vs i7 in-depth review is to compare the same manufacturer’s robot vacuums. Both of them work with Google Home and Alexa and carry out a 3-step cleaning process, being manageable through the iRobot Home app. The Roomba i7 falls under the category of high-end robotic vacuums, while the 960 is a mid-range device.
Suction and dustbin capacity
The comparison of the Roomba 960 vs Roomba i7 suction power revealed that the i7 has the 10x power-lifting suction versus the 960’s 5x air power. Besides, its airflow is 17 CFM against the 960’s 9 CFM. So, the i7 is more powerful, providing better cleaning on hard surfaces. However, its dustbin capacity is 0.5L only, while the Roomba 960 has a 0.75L container.
Using area
Both units are designed for all types of surfaces. Their vSLAM navigation allows creating a map in the devices' memory, finding the optimal route, and making neat rows instead of random movements. The tech reduces the cleaning cycle and increases its efficiency.
Besides, the robots are equipped with dual rubber brushes that work well on any surface without tangling. The units are compatible with the Braava Jet M6 robot mop for wet cleaning. Nevertheless, only the i7 can be integrated with the iRobot Clean Base for auto dirt removal.
However, there is a difference between these two models. While the Roomba 960 is designed with the iAdapt 2.0 navigation, the Roomba i7 features the iAdapt 3.0 version. It has the Keep Out Zones feature to prevent the unit from going into unwanted areas.
Noise level
The Roomba i7 vs 960 test has demonstrated the 960’s louder operation, reaching 65 dB. This is approximately between a rainstorm and city traffic, according to the sound meter. In its turn, the i7 produces only 60 dB.
Carpet cleaning
When I compared the iRobot Roomba 960 vs i7 during the carpet cleaning, I found that both models remove all rice, kitty litter, and cereal, leaving almost half of the amount of sugar on medium and high-pile carpets.
Roomba 960 Pros & Cons
- After recharging, it starts cleaning from the place where it has stopped.
- Removes the pet hair well.
- It has a low battery life of 75 minutes.
- The unit can get trapped in random places.
Roomba i7 Pros & Cons
- It is fitted with a high-efficiency filter that has passed the IEC fiber pick-up test.
- The robot works well on black surfaces.
- The rubber brush doesn’t look durable.
- The dustbin indicator can sometimes notify the full bin when it's really not.