The Roomba j7+ and
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Roomba j7+ vs i7 Comparison Chart
Design
iRobot’s Roomba j7+ has a more refined design than the
Unlike the D-shaped Roomba S9, the Roomba j7+ and i7 sport a round form typically associated with robot vacuums. While this allows them to negotiate tight turns better, it impacts their ability to clean along edges.
Still, the j7+ and i7’s low-profile design makes them capable cleaners in any home. Although not the slimmest models, these robovacs measure less than four inches in thickness and weigh over seven pounds.
Design-wise, the j7+ is sleeker. Its faceplate comes with an inner silver panel and a clean button. On the other hand, the i7 sports a charcoal-gray top cover with a U-shaped black panel that extends to the center. This panel contains three buttons as well as the iRobot logo. Lastly, the j7+ and the i7 are clad with a thick bumper to protect the vacuum and furniture.
Like most iRobot vacuum cleaners, the ‘plus’ symbol on the j7+ denotes the inclusion of the Clean Base station. While it does the same job as the base of other plus models, the j7+’s comes in a shorter but at the same time wider form. It also brandishes a more minimalist design compared to the taller profile used by the likes of the Roomba s9+.
As for the i7, you get the standard Home Base Charging station. If you want convenient self-emptying, you’ll have to purchase the
Cleaning System
The Roomba j7+ and i7 use the same cleaning technology. The j7+’s advantage is that it comes with a Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal station.
While the j7+ costs more than the i7, it uses the same cleaning technology as its less expensive sibling. Here, you’re getting iRobot’s 3-Stage Cleaning System. This system combines Power-Lifting Suction, the Edge-Sweeping Brush, and Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes.
In terms of suction, the j7+ and i7 claim to have 10x more suction power than the Roomba 600 series. Based on testing, that translates to about 1700 PA. Because they don’t have edges, these robot vacuums rely on a spinning edge brush to loosen dirt along walls and corners.
A common gripe about robovacs is that their brushes tend to tangle with pet hair. On the Roomba j7+ and i7, iRobot addresses this issue by using rubber brushes instead. Since they don’t have bristles, these brushes can be used across different surfaces, including hardwood and carpets.
However, not all surfaces are dirtied equal. Some spots in your home may require extra cleaning. In this case, the j7+ and i7 use iRobot’s Dirt Detect Technology. As its name suggests, the feature sees the vacuums focus on cleaning high-traffic areas of your home like hallways and entryways.
The j7+’s edge over the i7 is its Clean Base. With this base, the j7+ can automatically empty its bin. iRobot says the station holds up to 60 days worth of dirt and debris. In addition, the Clean Base serves as a charging station.
The Roomba j7+ and i7 have similar mapping and navigation tech. However, the j7+ adds obstacle avoidance, allowing it to steer clear of floor-level hazards like power cords and pet waste.
Robovacs are known for their hands-free operation. But you need reliable mapping and navigation for this. On the Roomba j7+ and i7, an onboard camera helps create an accurate map of your home. After a map is generated, the Imprint Smart Mapping feature allows you to label rooms. This means you can direct the j7+ and i7 to specific areas of the house you want to be cleaned.
There should be no worries about the j7+ and i7 missing a step. Both units come with Cliff Detect to prevent them from falling down the stairs. Meanwhile, advanced sensors guide the vacuums to clean in neat rows while sidestepping furniture. Homeowners can set up customizable Keep Out Zones and Clean Zones to tell the j7+ and i7 areas to avoid and clean, respectively.
Unlike the i7 with its top-mounted camera, the j7+ uses a front-facing one. This works with iRobot’s PrecisionVision Navigation for obstacle avoidance. With this feature, the j7+ can identify and avoid hazards ahead. As a result, you can steer clear of power cords, shoes, and pet waste.
Smart Features and Runtime
While both vacuum cleaners have the same smart features, the Roomba j7+ has a longer battery life than the
Like many of today’s robot vacuum cleaners, the Roomba j7+ and i7 boast smart features. First, both models work with the iRobot Home. The app allows users to access smart mapping, custom cleaning zones, and scheduled cleaning. But because the j7+ only has one physical button, you’re more likely to rely on the app to operate the unit.
iRobot Home also learns your cleaning schedule and when and where you vacuum. With the insights, the app can offer personalized cleaning schedules and suggest cleaning sessions for allergy or pet-shedding seasons.
If you don’t have your phone, you can still communicate with the j7+ and i7 using voice control. Both vacuums are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home devices. Lastly, the iRobot OS allows you to set your robot to automatically start cleaning when you love the home and stop once you arrive.
As for runtime, you get more minutes from the j7+. iRobot says the vacuum has a battery life of 100 minutes. If you get the
Verdict
Go for the Roomba j7+ if you want the convenience of a self-emptying vacuum. Opt for the
The Roomba j7+ is a solid purchase, whichever way you look at it. However, its main draw is arguably the Clean Base for self-emptying your vacuum’s bin. Since it also serves as a charging station, the j7+ bundle delivers when it comes to convenience.
In terms of performance, the Roomba i7 isn’t too far away from the j7+. In fact, it has more or less the same cleaning features, missing out only on obstacle avoidance and having a shorter battery life. You can also get a Clean Base station, although it costs more if you buy it separately. An alternative would be to get the Roomba i7+ instead. But if you’re going to shell out extra for the i7+, you might as well just get the Roomba j7+.
FAQs
Yes. The Roomba j7 is the same vacuum as the j7+. The only difference between the two is that the latter comes with the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal station.
Even without a Clean Base station, the Roomba j7 has the edge over the
The Roomba j7+ comes with two dirt disposal bags.
iRobot’s