In today’s market for smart home cleaning devices, iRobot continues to dominate with its Roomba line of robot vacuums. Among the top contenders in this lineup are the Roomba j5+ and Roomba i7+, both packed with advanced features designed to make cleaning easier and more efficient. But which one is the best choice for your home? This article will break down every aspect of these two models to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of the Roomba j5+ and i7+ Models
The Roomba j5+ and i7+ are two of the most popular robot vacuums offered by iRobot, a pioneer in the robotic vacuum industry. These models represent the latest automated cleaning technology, boasting impressive navigation systems, powerful suction, and convenient smart features. While both vacuums share some similarities, each one offers its own set of features, making it suitable for different needs and preferences.
Let’s begin by exploring their design and build quality.
Design and Build Quality Comparison
The Roomba j5+ and i7+ feature sleek, modern designs that blend well with any home décor. They are made of durable plastic materials, ensuring longevity even with frequent use. The main aesthetic difference lies in their color schemes; the j5+ features a darker, matte finish, while the i7+ sports a shinier, more metallic look.
Regarding portability, both models are easy to move around thanks to their lightweight build, but the i7+ is slightly heavier due to its enhanced features.
Navigation and Mapping Capabilities
Regarding navigation and mapping, the Roomba j5+ and i7+ offer impressive technology, but the i7+ stands out with its more advanced capabilities. Both models use iRobot’s signature iAdapt 3.0 Navigation with visual localization, allowing them to map out rooms, avoid obstacles, and clean more efficiently. However, the i7+ comes equipped with Imprint Smart Mapping, a feature that allows the vacuum to learn and remember the layout of your home. This allows it to map out specific rooms, enabling you to schedule cleanings for particular areas on demand.
While still very capable, the j5+ lacks some of the advanced learning features of the i7+. It relies more on reactive sensors rather than creating a detailed map of your home. This makes the j5+ more suitable for smaller homes or areas where precise room-by-room cleaning isn’t as necessary.
Additionally, the i7+ is better at avoiding obstacles, thanks to its more sophisticated cameras and sensors. The j5+, on the other hand, might occasionally bump into furniture or get stuck, though it performs well overall.
Cleaning Efficiency: Which One Performs Better?
Both the Roomba j5+ and i7+ excel in cleaning, but the i7+ takes the lead in terms of overall performance. The i7+ is equipped with stronger suction power, which makes it better at picking up fine dust, debris, and especially pet hair. This model also has a more advanced Dual Multi-Surface Rubber brush system, which helps prevent hair from getting tangled, making it ideal for homes with pets.
The j5+ still offers impressive cleaning capabilities, particularly on hard floors and low-pile carpets. However, due to its enhanced suction power and brush system, the i7+ is the better option for thicker carpets and homes with multiple pets.
Both models feature Dirt Detect Technology, which allows them to identify and focus on areas with higher dirt concentrations, ensuring a thorough cleaning session.
Battery Life and Charging Efficiency
Battery life is a critical factor in any robot vacuum. The Roomba j5+ and i7+ can clean for approximately 75-90 minutes on a single charge, which is sufficient for most homes. However, the i7+ was more efficient in terms of cleaning coverage at that time, thanks to its superior navigation system.
The i7+ also has the advantage of Smart Recharge and Resume, a feature that allows the vacuum to return to its charging dock, recharge, and resume cleaning exactly where it left off. The j5+ can recharge automatically but lacks the resume feature, meaning it might need to start a new cleaning cycle after recharging.
Automatic Dirt Disposal Features
One of the standout features of both the Roomba j5+ and i7+ is their Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal system. This technology allows the vacuums to empty themselves into a base station, reducing the need for frequent manual emptying. The i7+ has a slightly larger capacity and is designed to hold up to 30 bins of debris, while the j5+ holds slightly less.
The Clean Base system is especially convenient for users with allergies, as it minimizes exposure to dust and allergens. However, replacement bags should be considered, as they add to the long-term maintenance costs of both models.
Smart Features and App Integration
Both the Roomba j5+ and i7+ have Wi-Fi connectivity and are fully integrated with the iRobot Home App. The app allows users to schedule cleanings, monitor the robot’s progress, and even customize cleaning zones. It is intuitive and easy to use for both models.
One key difference is the i7+’s support for Imprint Link Technology, which allows it to work in tandem with other iRobot products, such as the Braava Jet m6 mop. This allows for a seamless clean-and-mop experience, with the i7+ vacuuming and the Braava Jet following up with a mopping session.
Both models also support voice commands via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making them easy to control using simple voice commands. However, the i7+ offers more customizability when setting no-go zones and choosing specific rooms for cleaning.
Noise Levels: Which Model is Quieter?
Robot vacuums are notorious for producing noise, but the Roomba i7+ is quieter than the j5+. While both models have similar decibel levels when running on low power, the i7+ operates more quietly on carpets and high-pile surfaces due to its advanced suction and brush systems.
The j5+ is slightly louder, especially when tackling more stubborn dirt or running at maximum suction power. This might not be a major issue in homes with hard floors, but it could be more noticeable on carpets or in smaller spaces.
Maintenance and Upkeep Requirements
The Roomba j5+ and i7+ are designed for easy maintenance, but the i7+ is slightly easier to maintain in the long run. The i7+’s Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes prevent tangles, especially with pet hair, reducing the amount of time spent cleaning the brushes. The j5+ also has rubber brushes, which may require more frequent cleaning.
Both models have high-efficiency filters that must be replaced every few months, depending on usage. The cost of replacement parts like filters, brushes, and Clean Base bags is something to consider for both models, but the i7+’s higher performance may justify the slightly higher upkeep cost.
Price and Value for Money
The Roomba i7+ is generally priced higher than the j5+, but this price difference is reflected in its superior features, such as smart mapping, better cleaning efficiency, and integration with other iRobot devices. For users who need advanced cleaning capabilities or have larger homes, the i7+ is worth the investment.
The j5+ is a more budget-friendly option and still offers excellent performance, especially for smaller homes or users who don’t require advanced smart mapping features. It provides great value for money for those who prioritize basic cleaning needs without the additional bells and whistles.
Customer Reviews and Real-World Feedback
Customer reviews for both models are generally positive, with users praising their cleaning efficiency and ease of use. However, the i7+ tends to receive higher marks for its advanced navigation, smart features, and overall performance, especially in larger homes or those with pets.
Some common complaints about the j5+ include occasional navigation issues and getting stuck under furniture, but users generally appreciate its affordability and solid cleaning performance.
Which One is Better for Different Home Environments?
If you live in a larger home or one with pets and multiple rooms, the Roomba i7+ is likely the better choice due to its smart mapping, higher suction power, and ability to clean specific rooms on demand. For smaller homes, apartments, or users on a budget, the Roomba j5+ offers excellent cleaning performance at a more affordable price point.
Pros and Cons of the Roomba j5+ and i7+
Roomba j5+ Pros:
- More affordable price
- Great for smaller homes and hard floors
- Clean Base automatic dirt disposal
Roomba j5+ Cons:
- Lacks advanced mapping features
- Slightly louder
- May get stuck more frequently
Roomba i7+ Pros:
- Advanced smart mapping and navigation
- Better suction and cleaning performance
- Supports Imprint Link for combined vacuuming and mopping
Roomba i7+ Cons:
- Higher price point
- More expensive maintenance costs
Shared Features of Roomba j5+ and i7+
Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal
The Roomba j5+ and i7+ come with the Clean Base automatic dirt disposal system, allowing the robot to empty its bin into a larger container. This feature reduces the frequency of maintenance, making both models highly convenient for long-term use.
Voice Control and App Integration
Both models are compatible with iRobot’s app and can be controlled using voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows for hands-free operation and the ability to start, stop, or schedule cleaning sessions using voice commands.
Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes
Both the j5+ and i7+ use dual multi-surface rubber brushes that adjust to different floor types. This allows them to clean both carpets and hard floors effectively without tangling.
Final Verdict: Which Roomba Should You Buy?
Ultimately, choosing the Roomba j5+ and i7+ depends on your budget, home size, and specific cleaning needs. If you require advanced features, better navigation, and more powerful cleaning, the i7+ is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option that still offers solid performance, the j5+ is an excellent choice.