iRobot Roomba i3/i3 Plus: More affordable robots with a self-cleaning base

The well-known manufacturer iRobot recently released a new model of the Roomba i3 robot vacuum. The i3+ is an improved version, differing only in that it also includes a cleaning station. The latter model is correspondingly more expensive ($599 versus $399). Otherwise, the robots are identical. Both devices operate on the recently launched Genius Home Intelligence platform, allowing users to customize their cleaning experience. Both robot vacuums are controlled via a mobile app and voice assistants. We'll discuss these and other features of the iRobot Roomba i3/i3+ in this review.

Equipment

The iRobot Roomba i3 package includes:

1. Robot vacuum cleaner.
2. Docking station with power adapter.
3. Spare HEPA filter.
4. Accompanying documentation.

The i3+ also includes a pair of dirt bags, and the charging base doubles as a Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal station. Dirt falls into a large, dense bag that's impermeable to fine dust, pollen, mold, and various allergens. This bag's capacity lasts for several weeks or even months (depending on the level of dirt in the room and how often the robot is used).

Appearance

The robot vacuums are made of durable and strong plastic. The build quality and workmanship are high, as is typical of all iRobot devices. The body shape is standard for this manufacturer – a puck or tablet shape that appears round when viewed from above. Most of the body is black, but the lid with the iRobot logo is dark gray, and the surrounding area is light gray. Overall, the robots' appearance is in line with modern trends, looking stylish and elegant.

The front panel features three control buttons: a larger one in the center and two smaller ones on either side. A protective bumper is located at the front, and when viewing the Roomba i3/i3+ from the bottom, you can see the drive wheels, the front swivel caster, the battery compartment under the cover, the contact pads for docking with the docking station, the central turbo brush, and one side brush.

The iRobot Roomba i3/i3+ robotic vacuum cleaners are not designed for wet cleaning, so a nozzle and cloths are not included.

Technical specifications

The main characteristics of the iRobot Roomba i3 are summarized in the table:

Type of cleaning	Dry
Power supply	Li-ion battery
Dimensions	33.7*33.7*9.2 cm
Robot weight	3.4 kg

No further information about the specifications of the iRobot Roomba i3/i3+ robotic vacuum cleaners is currently available. We hope to receive more information later, after which our review may be updated.

Functional capabilities

The robot vacuum cleaner is equipped with a navigation system based on a gyroscope and sensors, like its predecessor. Roomba e5At $300–$500, this isn't the most accurate navigation system (like lidar or a camera, for example). However, the iRobot Roomba i3/i3+ can recognize surface types and increase suction power when needed. And thanks to Dirt Detect technology, the robot pays special attention to the dirtiest areas of the room. The robot vacuum follows an optimal "snake" pattern, methodically avoiding obstacles and avoiding falls down stairs.

In terms of cleaning technology, the iRobot Roomba i3/i3+ robotic vacuum cleaners feature multi-directional silicone scraper rollers, effectively picking up debris from the floor. Combined with a side brush, they not only clean smooth surfaces like parquet, laminate, and linoleum of dust, debris, and dirt, but also remove hair and pet hair, and are capable of cleaning low-pile carpets. Dirt is collected in a dust bin with a high-efficiency filter. According to the manufacturer, these robots are capable of capturing up to 99% of dust particles, mold, dust mites, pet allergens, and other pollutants.

With the iRobot Roomba i3, you have to empty the dust bin yourself. The i3+ robot vacuum cleaner has an automatic dust station, so it handles this process for you.

The Roomba i3/i3+ robotic vacuum cleaners are controlled via the iRobot Home mobile app for Android and iOS operating systems. Updated application This will significantly improve the quality of cleaning, allowing you to customize functions and operating modes, schedule cleaning processes, set a timer, and much more. The robots also feature voice control via Alexa or Google Home. It's possible that the robots will be able to sync with a branded floor polisher for combined dry and wet cleaning.

Advantages and disadvantages

We conclude our review with a brief list of the advantages and disadvantages of the iRobot Roomba i3/i3+ robotic vacuum cleaners.

Pros:

1. High reliability and build quality.
2. Good cleaning quality, especially on carpets.
3. Self-cleaning station in one of the models (i3+).
4. Control via app and voice assistants.

Cons:

1. High price.
2. Poor navigation.
3. There is no wet cleaning function.
4. Limited functionality of the application.

Overall, the iRobot Roomba i3+, which is equipped with a self-cleaning base, is the only model worth buying. However, it's important to understand that this robot vacuum isn't suitable for cleaning large areas due to its less-than-precise navigation. It can effectively clean apartments and houses up to 60 square meters. However, the cleaning quality and the ability to self-clean with the base make this robot vacuum a compelling option.

That concludes our review of the iRobot Roomba i3/i3+. If you have any additional suggestions, please let us know in the comments. Happy shopping, everyone!

Analogues:

• iRobot Roomba i7+
• Xbot L7 Pro
• Roborock S5 Max
• Tefal Explorer Series 60
• Okami U90 Vision
• Roborock E4
• Polaris PVCR 3200 IQ Home Aqua