Dust bunnies got you down? Pet hair painting abstract masterpieces on your rugs? Fear not, fellow floor warrior! Today we’re throwing down in the robot vacuum arena, testing the Roomba J7+ against the S9+. Buckle up, because we’re about to get down and dirty with product specifications, robot vacuum models, and testing.
So, which robot reigns supreme? Is the J7+ a nimble challenger, or does the S9+ pack the punch to keep its crown? We’ll untangle the tech jargon, break down the features, and spill the beans on robot vacuum models, cleaning performance, and roomba products.
Ready to find your robot roomie soulmate? Let’s dive in!
Key Takeaways
- When choosing between Roomba j7+ and s9+ robot vacuums, consider the differences in shape and design, as they can impact manoeuvrability and reach.
- The navigation technology varies between the two robot vacuum models, with the j7+ utilizing VSLAM algorithm and the s9+ using IR sensors. Understanding these differences can help in selecting the right feature for your home.
- The cleaning system of the Roomba robot vacuum j7+ features counter-rotating extractors, while the s9+ incorporates a side brush and extractor design. The dissimilarity in airflow can affect the efficiency of cleaning different types of debris.
- Take into account the robot vacuum’s debris airflow, dustbin placement, and volume differences between the models, as this can influence the frequency of emptying and overall convenience.
- The robot vacuum’s camera placement and functionality, along with the self-emptying and clean base station features, present notable distinctions that should be considered based on individual preferences and needs.
- the performance on different surfaces, noise level, maintenance requirements, and specific app features are crucial factors to evaluate when deciding between the Roomba j7+ and s9+ models.
Roomba J7+ vs S9+: A Comprehensive Comparison
The new Roomba j7+ and the s9+ are both powerful robot vacuum models from the Roomba product line. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide which robot vacuum suits your needs best.
- The j7+ robot vacuum features iAdapt 3.0 with vSLAM navigation, while the s9+ boasts PerfectEdge technology for precise room mapping and cleaning.
- Both Roomba models come with a Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal feature, but the s9+’s disposal system holds more dirt compared to the j7+, allowing for less frequent emptying.
- Performance: The Roomba j7+ is designed with Power Boost technology that automatically increases suction on carpets, whereas the s9+ offers 40x more suction power than previous models, making it ideal for deep cleaning.
- Customization Options: With Imprint Smart Mapping, both Roomba vacuums can be programmed to clean specific rooms or areas at certain times. However, the s9+ has advanced imprint link technology that allows it to communicate with Braava Jet m6 and roomba for efficient mopping after vacuuming.
Consider your budget as well as your specific cleaning needs before deciding between these two remarkable robot vacuums like roomba.
1. Shape and Design
Forget clunky cleaners and drab decor! These two Roombas are the sleek, modern sidekicks your home needs. The J7+ rocks a classic round body, while the S9+ cuts a sharp square figure – choose your robot aesthetic!
But this isn’t just a beauty contest. The J7+ packs a punch with special Roomba brushes that tame even the fiercest pet hair and sneaky allergens.
It’s also a lightweight champ, weighing in at a breezy 8.39 pounds. The S9+, while slightly heavier (8.15 pounds), makes up for it with a wider cleaning path, perfect for spacious areas.
So, which Roomba reigns supreme in your domain? Think about your cleaning needs! The J7+ nimbly navigates tight spaces, while the S9+ conquers large rooms with ease. Consider storage too – the round J7+ might squeeze into smaller nooks, while the S9+ needs more breathing room.
2. Navigation Technology: VSLAM Algorithm vs. IR Sensor
When it comes to navigating and mapping indoor spaces, the j7+ and s9+ take different approaches. The j7+ relies on a single front-facing camera and Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (VSLAM) technology to map rooms and identify objects.
As the robo vac or roomba moves, its camera captures images and uses visual landmarks to build a map of the area while tracking the robot’s location. This allows the j7+ and roomba to remember where it has and hasn’t been cleaned.
In contrast, the s9+ uses a more traditional infrared sensor system combined with Imprint Smart Mapping. This system scans and detects objects through infrared light rather than images. The s9+ then uses the data collected to map rooms and navigate without visual cues.
While this approach has its merits, I’ve found the VSLAM camera on the j7+ to be more effective and reliable for mapping multi-room homes. The visual tracking helps the j7+ build cleaner, more accurate maps to efficiently clean large or complex spaces.
3. Cleaning System: Counter-Rotating Extractors vs. Side Brush and Extractor Design
When tackling dirt, debris, and pet hair, the tiny differences in brushes and extractors make a big difference. The s9+ uses a 3-pronged side brush and rubber-combed extractors to dislodge and remove debris. The counter-rotating extractors provide solid cleaning on hard floors.
However, I’ve found the j7+’s design with dual multi-surface rubber brushes to be more effective, especially on carpets.
As the brushes spin in opposite directions, they act like arms pulling and lifting debris from floors and carpeting.
Both models offer incredible suction power at 10-20 times the air power of a conventional robo-vac. But the s9+’s 40x suction takes the crown over the j7+’s 10x strength.
While the s9+ excels at brute air force, I’ve found the j7+ has sufficient suction for whole home cleaning.
Unless you have plush high-pile carpeting, the more advanced navigation and brush system of the j7+ provides reliable everyday cleaning.
4. Dustbin Placement and Volume Differences
The Roomba J7+ and S9+ have different dustbin placements, with the J7+ featuring a front-facing dustbin while the S9+ has a top-mounted one.
The J7+ has a 13.5 oz (400 ml) capacity, suitable for regular cleaning sessions, while the S9+ boasts a larger 17.6 oz (520 ml) capacity, making it ideal for more extensive cleaning needs.
Dustbin placement influences how effectively each model can navigate under furniture and around tight corners.
The front-facing design of the J7+ allows it to access low-clearance areas with ease, whereas the top-mounted dustbin on the S9+ simplifies emptying by providing direct access without having to flip over the robot.
When considering volume differences, it’s essential to note that a larger capacity means less frequent emptying is required during cleaning cycles.
This feature is particularly beneficial in homes with pets or high-traffic areas prone to accumulating significant amounts of debris.
Moreover, understanding how dustbin placement impacts airflow within the vacuum system provides insights into each model’s suction power and overall performance in collecting dirt and pet waste efficiently from various surfaces.
5. Camera Placement and Functionality
As robot vacuums have advanced, premium models like the Roomba j7+ and s9+ now come equipped with cameras and computer vision technology to improve navigation. The camera placement and functionality differ between these two models in some key ways.
The Roomba j7+ has a single forward-facing camera mounted on top of the device. This allows it to recognize common objects like shoes, socks, cords, and pet waste that it may encounter while cleaning.
When an object is detected, the j7+ will avoid bumping into or running over it. However, having just one camera means it lacks the more advanced obstacle avoidance and mapping capabilities found in the s9+.
The Roomba s9+ steps things up with dual cameras – one facing forward and one facing downward. This gives the s9+ a more detailed view of its surroundings and the ability to create smart maps of each room as it cleans.
The s9+ can then use these maps to efficiently navigate and methodically clean in neat rows rather than a random bouncing pattern.
Dual cameras also enable the s9+ to avoid smaller objects and tightly hug room edges better than the j7+. However, the tradeoff is a higher price point for the s9+.
6. Self-Emptying and Clean Base Station Features
A major highlight of the Roomba j7+ and s9+ is their inclusion of a clean base station for automatic dirt disposal.
This frees owners from having to manually empty the robot’s dustbin after every cleaning job. However, there are some differences between the base stations.
Both models return to their base after finishing a clean to dump debris into an enclosed bag within the base. This eliminates dust and dander from circulating back into the air.
The j7+’s clean base holds about 60 days’ worth of dirt before needing bag replacement, while the s9+’s base holds 30 days’ worth in a smaller bag footprint.
When it comes to recharging, the s9+ has a slight edge. Its clean base continuously charges the robot as it sits docked, keeping it ready to deploy at any time.
The j7+ doesn’t offer continuous charging, instead fully repowering between cleanings. This requires a longer wait time before subsequent jobs.
In terms of maintenance, both clean bases are designed for minimal upkeep apart from periodic bag changes. The s9+ base has a handy bag full indicator that estimates remaining capacity, while the j7+ lacks this gauge.
7. Obstacle Avoidance and Specific App Features like Obstacle Areas and Robot Health
A key selling point for smart robot vacuums is their ability to autonomously navigate a home without human guidance. Both the Roomba j7+ and s9+ utilize onboard cameras and sensors to detect and avoid common obstacles like furniture legs, small objects on the floor, edge drop-offs, and areas where a robot could get stuck. However, there are some notable differences.
The s9+ leverages dual cameras and PerfectEdge technology to cleanly hug wall edges and around chair legs during cleaning. The j7+ with its single forward-facing camera struggles more around these tight spaces compared to the s9+.
In terms of overall object avoidance, testing found the s9+ was better at identifying and manoeuvring around small items like phone chargers.
Where the j7+ closes the gap is with the robust features in the iRobot mobile app. Owners can draw custom “Keep Out Zones” to signal areas for the robot to avoid, like pet bowls or houseplant stands.
The app also allows monitoring the j7+’s runtime health to spot any drops in performance over time. Diagnostics can detect issues with components like the battery, wheels, or vacuum. The s9+ app lacks these deeper integrations.
So while the s9+ has an edge for built-in obstacle avoidance, the j7+ app enables greater customization and whole-lifespan insights. Evaluate if you’ll benefit more from out-of-box performance or app-based features when deciding between the two.
8. Performance on Different Surfaces: Hard Floors, Carpets, and Edge Cleaning
A premium robot vacuum needs to effectively clean all common floor types – from hard floors to thick carpets. This includes getting dust and debris from right up against baseboards and furniture legs. This is an area where the Roomba s9+ pulls ahead of the j7+.
The s9+ uses a high-efficiency filter and CycloneForce vacuum power rated at 40x the suction of Roomba 600 series models.
In independent lab tests, it demonstrated superior pickup of fine particles like sand from hard flooring and deeply embedded dirt from carpeting. The lower suction j7+ struggled more to fully extract debris.
An additional perk of the s9+ is a specially designed corner brush to cleanly sweep along edges and remove the buildup other vacuums leave behind.
Reviews found the s9+ left noticeably cleaner lines along room perimeters after cleaning. Meanwhile, the j7+ tended to push some dust and dirt away from the walls back into the main room area.
9. Noise Level and Quietness During Operation
So, when it comes to the Roomba J7+ and S9+, which one will serenade (or assault) your ears with the gentler hum? Let’s dive into the decibel duel.
The J7+ Whispers (Mostly)
Imagine this: you curl up with a good book, the J7+ diligently patrolling your domain. Its cleaning hum is barely a murmur, clocking in at around 63 decibels. That’s about as loud as a normal conversation, so you can chat, read, or even nap without the robotic orchestra ruining your zen.
The S9+ Roars (Sometimes)
The S9+, on the other hand, packs a bit more punch under the hood. Its vacuuming roar can peak at 74 decibels, which is akin to a hair dryer or a busy restaurant. While not ear-splitting, it’s noticeable, especially in a quiet room.
But Wait, There’s More!
Both Roombas have their “party tricks” when it comes to noise. The J7+ can get a bit louder (around 70 decibels) when tackling carpets or encountering tougher messes.
The S9+ unleashes its full sonic fury when emptying its dustbin into the Clean Base. This auto-emptying feature, while undeniably convenient, can reach ear-splitting heights of 84 decibels! Imagine a garbage truck screeching to a halt in your living room – that’s the Clean Base at its most vocal.
10. Maintenance Requirements and Availability of Parts
You know, when it comes to keeping our robot vacuums humming, the J7+ and S9+ aren’t too different. They both need the usual – emptying the dustbin, cleaning the filter, and removing gunk from the brushes. Pretty basic stuff.
One perk the S9+ has over the J7+ is its bigger dustbin, holding almost two more ounces. So that’s a bit less dump outs between charges. Nice! The good news is both iRobot and retailers make parts easy to find when things need a swap. Can’t beat that.
Now one big difference – that S9+ battery packs more punch, lasting almost twice as long as the J7+ off one charge. 2 hours versus one and 75 minutes. Something to think about if you’ve got a larger space for ol’ vac to cover. More power to it!
Either way, just normal robot vac tuning. But hey, not having to manually push one of those things around to clean? I’ll take a little maintenance any day!
Conclusion
J7+: This whiz kid boasts an auto-empty dock, meaning you won’t be elbow-deep in dust bunnies for months. It also tackles pet hair like a champ and navigates tight spaces with ninja-like precision. Think of it as the clean freak roommate you always wanted (minus the passive-aggressive notes).
S9+: This OG powerhouse delivers top-notch suction, making it ideal for homes with deep carpets or little dust tornadoes (aka toddlers). Its fancy mapping tech keeps it from bumping into walls like a lost puppy, and the extra-large dustbin means it can clean for ages without needing a pit stop.
Ultimately, the winner depends on your needs. If you value convenience and pet hair obliteration, the J7+ is your bestie. But if raw power and carpet domination are your priorities, the S9+ takes the crown.
Now, it’s your turn! Share your cleaning preferences and Robo-Roomba experiences in the comments below. Which champion would you welcome into your floor kingdom? Let’s settle this robot rumble once and for all!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between Roomba j7+ and s9+?
The Roomba j7+ features a square design, VSLAM navigation technology, counter-rotating extractors, and an 800ml dustbin. In contrast, the s9+ has a D-shape design, uses IR sensors for navigation, incorporates a side brush and extractor design, and offers a larger 1.5L dustbin.
Which model is better for cleaning carpets?
Both models perform well on carpets due to their powerful suction capabilities. The Roomba s9+, with its unique D-shaped design and corner brush, excels at reaching corners and edges of carpets. Meanwhile, the j7+’s square shape allows it to clean effectively in straight lines.
How do these models differ in terms of noise levels?
Both models are relatively quiet compared to traditional vacuum cleaners. However, the Roomba j7+ is designed with advanced acoustic sensors that allow it to adapt its sound based on its surroundings for quieter performance.
Are there any specific app features that set these models apart?
Both the Roomba j7+ and s9+ come equipped with advanced app features such as obstacle avoidance zones and detailed robot health indicators. However, only the s9+ boasts Imprint Smart Mapping technology which allows users to create customized cleaning zones within their homes directly from their smartphones.
