Comparison of iRobot Roomba 960 and 980
iRobot recently released two models of its 900 series robot vacuums, which at first glance seem to differ only in price. However, a closer look reveals a number of differences not only in technical specifications but also in functionality. Below, we'll provide a brief comparison of the iRobot Roomba 960 and 980.
Appearance
In appearance and design, the robot vacuum cleaners are virtually identical. A discreet, unobtrusive design is a distinctive feature of all iRobot models. The control panel is made of durable, transparent plastic, and the body is protected by bumpers on the sides.
Roomba 960
Roomba 980
The front panel features a large button that glows green when the appliance is in operation. Nearby is a camera that scans the room and creates a cleaning plan.
As you may have noticed, the iRobot Roomba 960 and 980 differ in color. The 960 is black and gray, while the 980 is brown.
Equipment
A distinctive feature in the configuration of these two robots is that the iRobot Roomba 980 has two virtual walls, while the 960 has one.
Equipment of the 980 model
Model 960 kit
The 960 model has a smaller battery capacity (2130 mAh) compared to the 980's 3300 mAh. Because of this, the iRobot Roomba 960 will have a runtime of up to 75 minutes, while the iRobot Roomba 980 will have a significantly longer runtime of up to 120 minutes.
In other respects, the robot vacuums are similar: they have the same dust bin capacity (about a liter), the same main and side brushes, and the same HEPA filter. The iRobot 960 and 980 also include a charging station and user manual.
Functional capabilities
The 900 series robots boast advanced functionality. This is reflected primarily in their control method. The device can be controlled via a mobile phone thanks to its integrated Wi-Fi module. This feature allows the user to maintain maximum control over the cleaning process. Furthermore, cleaning modes and functions can be changed, the robot's direction can be adjusted, and a specific time can be set for the robot to begin cleaning the room without touching the device.
iRobot Roomba 980 Robot Vacuum Cleaner is capable of cleaning a room up to 185 square meters. While iRobot Roomba 960 Cleans up to 150 square meters. This is achieved thanks to the advanced iAdapt 2.0 navigation system, which uses sensors and a camera to detect contaminated areas even in hard-to-reach places (for example, under furniture).
The 980 model features a dedicated Carpet Boost mode for cleaning carpets. It activates automatically when cleaning carpets. It increases suction power, effectively cleaning carpet fibers.
Carpet Boost
Both the Roomba 980 and 960 feature the improved AeroForce Stage 3 dust collection system. The only difference between the two devices is their turbo mode: compared to the Roomba 960's normal mode, its maximum power is reduced to 5 times that of the Roomba 980, compared to 10 times that of the Roomba 980. This suggests that the 960's motor is inferior to that of the 980. Thanks to its vacuum suction, the device performs much more efficiently and effectively, and a special indicator shows when the dust container is full.
As can be seen from the review of the two models, the iRobot Roomba 980 and 960 robots are virtually identical in specifications, differing only in power and motor performance. However, the price difference is quite significant. The more advanced 980 model costs at least $550 (the average price in 2019), while a similar model costs $490. A $60 difference could be significant for some.
So, we've provided a comparison of the iRobot Roomba 960 and 980 robot vacuums. As you can see, there are differences. However, they're not significant enough to say which model is better. After all, the robots are in different price ranges, so each option offers the best value for money!
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