iRobot’s series of robotic vacuum cleaners continue to dominate the market. With the Roomba 891 and the Roomba 960, the company’s pushing for devices that deliver powerful cleaning alongside smarter navigation. Given that the price difference between the two is quite slim, choosing which robovac to buy can be tough. Below, we share our thoughts about some key features of the 891 and 960 to help you pick the right cleaner for your home.
Navigation
Roomba 891 vs 960 Comparison Chart
| Model | Roomba 891 | |
Deal Finder  iRobot Roomba 891 The iRobot Roomba 891 robot vacuum cleans both hard floors and carpets with 5x the air power of the Roomba 600 series. Connect via Wi-Fi and schedule cleaning cycles via app. We are reader supported. When you buy through our links we may earn an affiliate commission. | Amazon product | |
| Price | Deal Finder iRobot Roomba 891 The iRobot Roomba 891 robot vacuum cleans both hard floors and carpets with 5x the air power of the Roomba 600 series. Connect via Wi-Fi and schedule cleaning cycles via app. We are reader supported. When you buy through our links we may earn an affiliate commission. | Amazon product |
| Rating | Deal Finder iRobot Roomba 891 The iRobot Roomba 891 robot vacuum cleans both hard floors and carpets with 5x the air power of the Roomba 600 series. Connect via Wi-Fi and schedule cleaning cycles via app. We are reader supported. When you buy through our links we may earn an affiliate commission. Deal Finder iRobot Roomba 891 The iRobot Roomba 891 robot vacuum cleans both hard floors and carpets with 5x the air power of the Roomba 600 series. Connect via Wi-Fi and schedule cleaning cycles via app. We are reader supported. When you buy through our links we may earn an affiliate commission. | Amazon product Amazon product |
| Dimensions | 13.9″ x 13.9″ x 3.6″ | 13.8″ x 13.8″ x 3.6″ |
| Weight | 8.4 lbs | 8.5 lbs |
| Suction Power | 5x the suction power of the Roomba 600 Series | 5x the suction power of the Roomba 600 Series |
| Bin Capacity | 200 ml | 600 ml |
| Brushes | Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes, Edge-Sweeping Brush | Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes, Edge-Sweeping Brush |
| Dirt Detect Technology | Advanced | Advanced |
| Navigation | Intelligent Navigation | Visual Nav + Mapping |
| Filter | HEPA | HEPA |
| Runtime | Up to 90 minutes | Up to 75 minutes |
| Charging Time | 120 minutes | 180 minutes |
| Automatic Recharging | Yes | Recharge and Resume |
| Wi-Fi & Smart Home Connected | Yes | Yes |
Design
The two smart vacuum cleaners are nearly identical in size and configuration, differing only in the color of its finish.
The Roomba 891 and 960 come in a uniquely designed, circular form that has become synonymous to iRobot’s range of smart vacuum cleaners. Both robovacs sport an ‘inner’ core bordered by a plastic ring. The top view of the two are also quite similar except for the arrangement of the triple-button control panel. On the other hand, the underside of both the 891 and 960 houses dual multi-surface rubber brushes while the sides carry the edge-sweeping brushes. These bristle-free brushes are central to Roomba’s cleaning prowess.
With their sturdy external shell, both the Roomba 891 and 960 carry a refined aesthetic that’s firmly anchored on the brand’s reputation for durability and reliability. If you prefer a cleaner that’s more discreet, the
Both devices are hefty at over 8 pounds. They also share the same height profile at 3.6 inches. While it’s certainly a smaller frame compared to traditional vacuum cleaners, mobility may still be limited underneath some furniture.
Cleaning Performance
The Roomba 891 performs better in hardwood floors and tiles while the
Robot vacuum cleaners are not perfect, and as far as floor-care categories go, they are still not as powerful as your traditional vacuum. However, over the years, iRobot has invested in embedding innovative technology in their Roomba line, and the 891 and 960 are certainly no exceptions.
Both robovacs come equipped with 5x the suction power of the more entry-level Roomba 600 series. They also share the same AeroForce technology that leverages the vacuum’s multi-surface brushes to lift and loosen particles of dirt and debris for suctioning. iRobot has ensured the brushes are also anti-tangle, making them ideal for households with pets. For those concerned about their health, the Roombas also come with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter that trap dust, pollen, and allergens up to 10 microns small.
Using optics and acoustics, the Roomba 891 and 960 can automatically detect dirt and suction it clean. To clean room edges and corners, edge sweeping brushes on the sides are precisely-angled at 27-degrees.
Although the two vacuum cleaners can adjust its brushes to the surface, the Roomba 891 works better on hardwood floors and tiles while the 960 does an impressive job cleaning carpets. The 960, however, has a larger 600ml bin capacity compared to the 891’s modest 200ml. On the other hand, you’ll get a longer runtime with the Roomba 891—up to 90 minutes—while keeping charging time to just two hours.
The
While the cleaning technology used by the Roomba 891 and 960 are quite similar, the latter has better navigation features. This is largely due to the Roomba 900 Series having the benefit of a camera, as well as the new iAdapt 2.0 + VSLAM navigation system.
Even though the Roomba 891 can cover a lot of ground, it still runs on an iAdapt 1.0 system that directs its movements rather randomly. While it does get the job done, users may find it a little scatterbrained. The Roomba 900, on the other hand, uses its camera to take images of your house for better navigation. Combined with its suite of intelligent sensors, the visual localization gives the vacuum precise and methodical mobility inside your home, and across multiple rooms.
If you’re worried about the Roomba 891 or 960 missing a step, then the Cliff Detect technology should appease you. These sensors are available in both vacuums and should ensure your cleaners never make a tumble down the stairs or knock down objects. Do keep in mind, however, that the feature does run into trouble in dark or black carpets, as the sensors tend to assume them as ‘cliffs’ or elevated areas in your house.
Smart Features
Both robot vacuum cleaners are compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, and can be operated using the iRobot app.
For greater convenience, both the Roomba 891 and 960 are auto-recharging, which means the vacuum cleaners will return to their charging dock on their own. However, unlike the
Nonetheless, both robovacs are easy to set-up and come with intuitive features that take advantage of today’s wireless innovations. As a smart vacuum cleaner, the Roomba 891 and 960 enjoy Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to control the devices using their smartphones. Through the iRobot HOME app, you get push notifications about your Roomba’s status including full bin indicator, battery level, and cleaning missions. Both cleaners are also compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, which means you can operate them by voice command.
To make things even more efficient, the
Verdict
The
Although the Roomba 891 uses the same technology as the Roomba 960, the latter has a more advanced navigation system for a more methodical cleaning. While some people won’t mind the 891 buzzing about in different directions, the convenience you get from the
While the