The Best of Both Phone, and Tablet
Entered CNET Catalog: 07/17/2004
SKU: 4210
Manufacturer: iRobot
Product summary
The good: Picks up superficial household debris well; gets itself out of tight corners; included Virtual Walls let you define vacuuming area; returns to charging dock independently.
The bad: Works slowly; misses some spots; no attachments or stair-cleaning capability; occasionally gets stuck.
The bottom line: This robotic vacuum cleaner uses minesweeping technology to do a slow and not entirely thorough job of cleaning floors without your assistance.
Editors' review
- Editors' Choice: No
- Reviewed on: 07/20/2004
When you start up the Discovery, either with the remote or by pressing a button on the unit, it beeps a little salutatory tune and embarks from the docking station. It cuts a seemingly random path, zigzagging across the room and bumping around in corners. The path isn't really random, though--according to iRobot, the Discovery senses information about its environment 67 times per second and adjusts its path so that it will cover the whole area before returning to base. If you set it on Clean, it will cover just one room, and then go back to the docking station to charge when it's decided that cleanliness has been achieved. To cover multiple adjoining rooms, set the Discovery on Max, and it will run until the battery dies. There's also a Spot setting that causes the device to wheel around in little circles over a three-foot-diameter area in order to handle particularly nasty patches. The Roomba Discovery is pretty good at the things it's made to do: It can navigate tight spaces without getting stuck, and although it's not one of the most powerful vacuums around, it does a good job of picking up the usual household debris--including cat-fur tumbleweeds. Whenever the unit hit a really grimy spot on my hardwood and tiled floors, its blue Dirt Detect light illuminated, and it spent enough extra time on the space to pick up all the filth. It didn't choke on the paper clips and other small items I arrayed in its path, and it obeyed the restrictions of the Virtual Wall units that I set up. I was also pleased that it didn't knock over any lightweight items or seem capable of doing any damage to objects it bumps into. As a bonus, the Discovery provided a unique interactive experience for my cats.
Too good to be true, you ask? After running the Discovery several times around my hardwood and tile floors, as well as over a small piece of carpet, I found a few significant drawbacks in its performance. The first one is speed. When I restricted its activity to an 8-by-9-foot room with a hardwood floor and a 3-by-4-foot entryway, it took about 25 minutes to complete the job. That's at least 5 times as long as it would take me to clean that space thoroughly with a regular vacuum. Of course, I was in the kitchen cooking dinner while the Discovery was slaving away, so you could also look at it as having saved me 5 minutes.
Unfortunately, the Discovery isn't completely thorough either. Despite its high-tech minesweeping algorithms, the unit missed some spots, leaving about 10 percent of the dirt. That's pretty good, but I still had to finish the job with my regular vacuum. Even if 90 percent is close enough for you, you may not want to hear the Discovery running for the length of time it takes to clean a room, even though it's relatively quiet as vacuum cleaners go.
Another drawback is that the Roomba Discovery isn't above being stymied. After all, it's a machine. During one run, it fell into a sort of holding pattern in a corner that had a wall on one side and a couple of coffee table legs on the other. It spent about 15 minutes spinning around in that space, refusing to head for the open areas on its two other sides, before calling it a day and returning to its dock. The Discovery also failed to respond to the remote on occasion, going into sleep mode instead of swiveling around as I had commanded it to do. Plus, the Discovery doesn't have any attachments, so you can't use it to clean upholstery or carpeted stairs.
If you have problems pushing a vacuum cleaner around for physical reasons or simply hate vacuuming, the Roomba Discovery might be a good investment. Don't give away your old, conventional vacuum cleaner, though--you'll need it to clean that last 10 percent.
User opinions
Select a User Opinion to view: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103 104 105 106 107 108 109 110 111 112 113 114 115 116out of 116 user reviews
works fine just not very long
Pros: cleans fairly well goes under bed etc.
Cons: use 3-4 mths a year mobile home. spent 540+ for a 560&dirtdevil they replaced 560 aprox. 1yr. ago out again lots of spare parts clean each time used. dirt devil used aprox. 6 times out all three just go in circles spent hrs cleaning.
out of 116 user reviews
Might be a useful technology when they get it working.
Pros: The idea of the Roomba cleaning the carpet while I do other things is great! My dog also gets quite the kick out of it.
Cons: We just junked our 3rd Roomba in 3 yrs.
The Roomba is a promising technology but not reliable enough for the market yet.
out of 116 user reviews
Only lasts 18 months
Pros: No hands vacuuming
Cons: Too expensive to not last more than 18 months!
out of 116 user reviews
Roomba stopped working properly after < than 18 months.
Pros: I liked the no hands vacuuming.
Cons: After using the roomba for about 17 months, it failed to navigate properly and would just circle around in one place. It still didn't work after following suggestions given by the company.They offered me a discount on a new one. I said no thanks.
out of 116 user reviews
This is just a robot that cleans your house.
Pros: I like the fact that you can schedule it at any time when you are not around. I just got my Roomba yesterday the owner said it worked fine. I am guessing from all the comments that it does not work very well.
Cons: I don't like that you have to take up rugs and and everything else and then put it all back. That is my only issue that I have so far found with the roomba.
out of 116 user reviews
MY ROOMBA IS CRAP
Pros: Cute, works when when it does which is about 2% of the time.
Cons: First problem there is only a 30 day warranty. It needs constant cleaning to keep it operating. I could have vacummed my entire house in the time it takes to clean the machine to have it operate for 10 minutes and only get 10% of my house done.
out of 116 user reviews
Only works for a few months--do NOT buy!
Pros: When it works, it works well
Cons: Only works for few months, then problems arise, such as stalling, spinning unnecessarily, etc. Sent it in once for replacement parts, and when it came back it worked ok, but only lasted for a few weeks. Now it's useless, after less than a year.
out of 116 user reviews
A Waste of Money!
Pros: Better than not cleaning at all.
Cons: Release a minimal part of your house chore.
out of 116 user reviews
Roomba 562 Pet Series Way Better Than Expected
Pros: Very little attention required
Works great on hardwood floor/tile/area rugs
Picks up all the pet hair with 3 dogs and 1 pussycat
Spot mode button and dock button work great
Virtual walls/lighthouses work really well
Does filter out dust
Cons: You must use 2 times a week per room or you will be cleaning brushes in mid cycle on a room.
Dust filters are a bit messy to clean
You will have to pick up some dirt at the transitions from hardwood to area rugs
out of 116 user reviews
The IRobot only works well a short time...
Pros: It runs alone...
Cons: It does not last much more then a year...Its very costly for such a short life....
out of 116 user reviews
Poor customer support and it doesn't work very well.
Pros: It will pick up small dust and debris.
Cons: Gets stuck in corners, doesn't pick up hair or large debris. Still must use reg. vac at least 1/wk. You fool around with all the bins, brushes and sensors. Technical support page not avail. Emailing-you MUST follow a really bizarre format! BAD!!!
By the time you fool around with setting up the virtual walls and cleaning all the brushes and bins and sensors, it would be easier (and you'd do a better job) if you just used a regular vacuum. A tiny part fell off one of brushes and thankfully I saw it, but a warning would have been nice as I was doing it over my sink. I wouldn't have even noticed it gone! Poor and expensive product and absolutely orrible customer support.
out of 116 user reviews
Terrible. I bought Roomba 500 series from Costco.
Pros: Worked well for 3-4 months.
Cons: Problem after problem. Support was terrible. I have almost given up. What a waste of $300+. I wish I had read consumer reports!
out of 116 user reviews
Don't buy anything from this company
Pros: Worked awesome as long as it worked. The first one worked so well I bought another.
Cons: Batteries don't last long. They are rechargeable, but not for long. New batteries are expensive.
Once out of warranty, both machines broke down. You cannot have them repaired.
"We apologize for the inconvenience. Unfortunately, at this time we do not have a program that allows customers to send robots in for maintenance or service. iRobot offers support by phone or email. We would be happy to assist you in troubleshooting any issue that your robot may have."
Yes, well that didn't work either.
Based on the price, the quality and customer service I totally unacceptable.
out of 116 user reviews
Not worth what you pay for it.
Pros: Not much. Nothing but crap.
Cons: It gets stuck all the time. It does not pick up very well. If it has a computer in it, then it is retarded. It is a bump and go toy.
out of 116 user reviews
NO GUARANTEES. IF IT BREAKS FORGET IT
Pros: I loved it while it lasted in spite of cleaning the hair from around the brushes, replacing the filter, replacing the poorly constructed side brushes.
Cons: Labor intensive keeping it in functioning order. Extremely poor reliability. "Just buy a new one" I could have purchased a new Hoover that would last ten years for the money I wasted on this. Shame on iRobot
out of 116 user reviews
Excellent Gadget but not for real Household use
Pros: Excellent way to learn about robotics.
Clean very well if well maintained.
Cons: Fragile; components will break easily.
Battery doesn't last for more than average room.
Battery doen't last more than one year.
Needs to be cleaned up very often to perform well.
Expensive replacements parts.
As expensive as a very good vacuum.
My experience with the Discovery is a mixed bag of pleasures and disappointments. As a gadget person, I was happy to get the Roomba to experience the world of robotics applied to a very mundane task; vacuuming the floor. I found that the price of the Roomba was too high compared to very good Vacuum cleaners on the market. But since I already owned a conventional vacuum, I decided to get the Roomba knowing that it could not completely replace my traditional vacuum and that it would be a nice experience.
The first few days I used the Roomba I was really surprised how well it vacuumed the floors but I must say that my condo is easy for the Roomba; hardwood floors and tiles; no carpets and no pets. But I found that Roomba took almost one hour to clean an average room that I had to prepare first (remove wires, put virtual walls, etc). Then it was time to recharge the Roomba; it wouldn't have enough charge to do 2 rooms.
Also, the dust bin has to be emptied after each use to insure proper cleaning. I soon discovered that brushes, wheels and some internal parts had to be cleaned frequently as well. I used compressed air cans to remove dust bunnies in places that I could not reach easily. Conclusion; the Roomba cleans well but you need to work as much as you did when you used the conventional vacuum cleaner to ensure Roomba will do its job well.
I found that the artificial intelligence of the Roomba uses brute force logic to clean a room. The robot is blind and it will achieve its cleaning goal by bumping randomly into walls for a long time in order to do a good job. IRobot could improve a lot the performance of Roomba by using RFID tags placed to delimiter the perimeter to vacuum; this way Roomba would know how large the room is and how to avoid walls and obstacles.
After about one year of usage I had bad surprises. First, there was a big pile of hair trap around the axle of the brushes motor; impossible to clean without dismantling the robot. Also, the battery started to die on me. And last, one of the arms of the side spinning brush broke.
Knowing that the warranty coverage was over and being a very handy person, I proceeded to dismantle my Roomba to access the axle and remove the hairs. Thanks to other people who explained on their Web Site how to dismantle the Roomba, I was successful but opening the Roomba is not easy and involves removing many small screws all over.
I ordered a part replacement kit from IRobot for the spinning brush and some filters; again I found it cost me way too much (40$) compared to the price of the robot. Also, there is no stores (even the ones who sell the Roomba) who sell the spare parts; you have to mail order if you live in Montreal Canada. Result; I paid as much for shipping and handling that the cost of the replacement package.
The battery was another adventure. When it finally died, I wrote to IRobot to complain that this type of Metal Hydride battery was supposed to last a good 3 years before crapping (about 1000 recharges) and I asked them to help me since my battery gave up after a bit more than one year. Well, IRobot never replied to me; it was clear that I was now on my own. I was ready to gave up on the Roomba because IRobot ask for about 70$ (plus handling and shipping) for a new battery. Fortunately Web Battery resellers sell the replacement batteries much cheaper than IRobot; I found a higher amperage battery for about 30$ plus shipping.
Battery replaced, the Roomba sprung back to life and is cleaning my floors very well again. But I just got another problem; the clean button does not work anymore; there is probably some dust trapped under preventing the contact from happening. But fortunately, I am using the remote control to start the cleaning cycle.
But why dust got under that button? I got the answer when I dismantled the Roomba the first time; all the electronics inside the Roomba are not sealed! This is a bit ridiculous for a robot that is sold to vacuum dust, one of electronics and mechanics worst enemy.
In conclusion, I cannot recommend the Roomba for people who want to use it as a replacement for their usual vacuum cleaner. Cleaning with Roomba requires a lot of preparation and the machine needs to be cleaned very well, very often. Also, this is not a very sturdy machine; it will surely fail in some way in the first or second year and IRobot will be more than happy to sell you overpriced replacement parts. For the money I put on the Roomba in less than 2 years, I could have gotten an excellent Dyson that would last me 10 years...
On the other hand, if you want to experience robotics and want to modify the Roomba for hobby projects, this little robot is a good platform and many people have posted ideas on their Web Sites to hack the Roomba.
out of 116 user reviews
Between Mediocre and Poor
Pros: Cool idea, when / if it works.
Cons: Gets stuck a lot, battery life is a month over warranty, a REAL mess and difficult to clean especially if you have allergies, areas that should be sealed from dirt get clogged, fit of plastic catch tray is poor. The battery charge systems stink
Oh, the reason I have two, I have a big house, bought one and my Dad sent me another one to get more coverage in one day.
out of 116 user reviews
My sister and my Rooba died within the first year
Pros: It would be great if it worked more than a year.
Cons: Pretty expensive piece of garbage. My sister and my Roomba Discovery only lasted a year. Both of ours died with the same problem.
out of 116 user reviews
Not ready for prime time, buyer beware.
Pros: When it works I really liked its ability to sense dirt, crumbs and stuff. It concentrates on these typical spills.
Cons: Wears out too soon. Battery life sucks and expensive to replace. Gear trains in the brush mechanism just plain wore out, disabling the unit. All this happened after the insufficient warrenty period. Poor support when trying to solve the problom.
I waited a year for the "next generation" and bought another. I used it for several months before the battery failed. After replacing the battery I noticed it was not sounding or behaving the same. I am an Electrical Engineer and since the warrently was well past I decided to dig deeper. Turns out nylon gears used in the gear train of the spinning brush wore out due to lots of friction. The Friction came from dry debri (carpet fibres, dirt, you know the stuff on floors) building up inside the gear housing. The mechanical tolerances are so sloppy that almost anything gets in there. I cleaned it out and rebuilt two gears showing severe wear (can't go wrong with J&B Weld epoxy). The gear reduction box located on the brushes drive motor also had a gear worn to its nubs. I reversed it to access some meat still left on it. It worked for another month before that gear failed. In the mean time I requested (very politely) help in procuring these replacement gears and got the "Typical PC" reply that IRobot does not encourage customers to take it apart. Duh!!! Its mine and I can do what I want with it. All I asked is for spare parts to keep the dream alive.
No parts are available to the doit yourself folks. IRobot, I thought was a pretty cool Engineering company but they lost touch with thier brotherin. IRobot is no longer welcome in my house. I will canibalize it and make something fun out of it. What a waste of time and money.
Buyer be ware
out of 116 user reviews
Absolutely not worth the money
Pros: small, supposed start and forget
Cons: An expensive toy that would only work for 2 weeks at a time. I would package it up and return to iRobot, they would replace it with a reconditioned one
out of 116 user reviews
Low quality product
Pros: Clever when it works
Cons: Poorly designed and built
out of 116 user reviews
THIS THING IS CRAP
Pros: IT DOES CLEAN THE ROOM HANDS FREE, WHEN IT WORKS
Cons: WONT GO TO DOCK, BROKE DOWN AFTER 3 MONTHS
out of 116 user reviews
IRobot did not ship overnight as promised
Pros: Does a good job on the surface
Cons: Does not cover the whole area
out of 116 user reviews
quit cold one fine day!
Pros: works well when it does
Cons: does not cover the floor
I would NOT recommend this "magic" device to anyone, since their trouble shooting procedure is tedious, to say the least
out of 116 user reviews
Some advantages... BIG DISADVANTAGES - READ THIS BEFORE YOU BUY!
Pros: Vacuum you can schedule which returns to base for charging
Cons: BATTERY LONGEVITY!!! - / Need to clean and empty often (almost daily) / Gets Caught on cords, rugs, stuck under rocking chairs - need to move everything
1) The iRobot website says that their improved Advanced Power System (APS) battery lasts 50% longer and "will provide hundreds of cleaning cycles" - and they mean that literally = about 200 cleaning cycles. So if you plan to run it once every day, in **less than 1 year** you will need to pay $80 to replace the battery. That is, IF you have the improved one. Just try and ask them for a longer than 1 year warranty - no really ask them.
2) They are so familiar with battery issues that they have a dedicated number that they transfer you to that handles only battery issues (when Roomba makes a Da da de de sound and won't work even after charging) Invariably they will walk you through steps to "recondition" your battery for which they have a prepared procedure. They consider this completely normal. Mmm-K I am sure you do this with all your batteries. Don't you? When was the last time you reconditioned your battery for Cell Phone? Cordless Drill? PDA? PVP? ...anything? -- but don't worry if its more than 200 uses, it won't matter, the battery is dead. It has completed its normal life span. Time to pay 1/3 of the total cost again. Every year. Normal case - not failure. If the buyer doesn't mind that, fine, but please just factor it into your purchase.
MAINTENANCE:
1) EMPTY BIN and CLEAN BRUSHES
Bin size (width/length/depth) (7.5 inches/1 inch/ 1.5 inches) - Now, a small size carry on bin is needed because the unit is small - understood. But how hard would it be to make a docking station that would accept a dump from the tiny bin after each clean? Then you would only have to empty a larger docking station wastebasket as opposed an every other day dump of the tiny bin.
Well, I guess you have to take out and comb the brushes about that often - so you're already working at that...
If you have a very small studio it could be ok - maybe once a week.
CORDS AND ENTANGLEMENTS:
Ok. Look at the floor of your house - the whole thing - corner to corner. Now imagine that you will vacuum it blind - every inch - no matter what is in the way. Any cords? clothing? Rugs with fringes? Shoes with laces hanging out? Papers? These will all cause Roomba problems == chew, entangle and stop. Treat it like a bad puppy - if it is out, it will be eaten.
Side note: If Roomba comes at a rocking chair from behind it will get stuck. So back all rocking chairs against the wall. Rocking chair = Roomba nemesis.
Having to move all items did not bother me (you would have to pick up / move those things anyway if you were using a normal vacuum. - but it does not allow a "set-it-and-forget-it" mentality for anyone with a house that has living beings occupying it.) - It's not that kind of robot - like from the futuristic world of SCI-FI but rather the kind of robot from the futuristic world of CRUISE CONTROL.
CUSTOMER SERVICE:
1) Remote was defective within first few days: They sent a replacement - did not require other remote sent back first. Should have worked in the first place but customer service recovery = Good.
2) Battery completely dies after about 1 year. I am told this is NORMAL and to buy another at $80+. Should have a better product with regard to battery, customer service recovery = Very Bad.
Bottom Line:
Customer Service for iRobot as they see it is "Complaint Management." I think their mantra from team meetings is "Shut them up- then hang up"(repeat over and over). They are too busy troubleshooting the problems with their product and shipping replacement parts (when they can) that they don't have the time or more importantly the DESIRE to provide what other companies understand is true CUSTOMER SERVICE. They don't understand that customers are the avenue through which to receive feedback in order to improve the product. If not them, then who else?
__________________________________________
Real Example: When asked ...
Is iRobot planning to improve the battery to last longer than 200 uses?
iRobot customer service: Well sir, I don't see that as a problem. Is that inconvenient for you?
Customer: Yes, could you make note of it for product improvements.
iRobot customer service: I am only Customer Service, that is a management decision.
Customer: Yes, well couldn't you relay the message?
iRobot customer service: Sir, like I said, I am customer service for helping people with problems.
Customer: What about ensuring that they don't experience problems in the first place??
iRobot customer service: Sir, like I said, I am customer service.
___________________________________________
All this is unfortunate as this could be a good product if only they had the right corporate philosophy.
THE POSITIVES:
1) You don't have to do the vacuuming yourself - you can do other things with that time. Returns to base by itself for recharge. (But remember you will spend more time on maintenance than with other vacuums.)
2) It cleans an ordinary carpet pretty well / not great (has to go over several times, leaves some dust bunnies some times)
3) If you have hardwood floors, it handles Persian rug / throw carpet height well. Less than 1/4 inch = climb / more than 1/4 inch = wall.
4) It gets under beds and couches nicely.
DON'T FORGET - NORMAL BATTERY LONGEVITY = MAX 1 YEAR.
It's a third of the cost so it's a must to consider this.
out of 116 user reviews
Worst purchase in many years
Pros: The concept is great, works great for a little while
Cons: I loved Roomba so much I bought 3 of them; 60 days later none work
out of 116 user reviews
Amazing device, exceeded expectations
Pros: Keeps house cleaner than conventional vacuum
Cons: can chew electrical cables if you forgot to move them
out of 116 user reviews
Excellent performance
Pros: Does a great job vacuuming carpet
Cons: none found so far
out of 116 user reviews
Does a decent job, but needs more oomph
Pros: Does a pretty good job cleaning up on tiled and carpetted surfaces
Cons: Very noisy for a little machine
out of 116 user reviews
Piece of Junk
Pros: It is innovative alright!
Cons: What does it clean again?
out of 116 user reviews
Roomba cliff sensor has issue
Pros: cleans while you're not at home
Cons: weak suction, short battery life, cliff sensor has issue
out of 116 user reviews
Good little Robot
Pros: Fire and Forget cleaning, gets the hard to reach places
Cons: Need to clean after EVERY use, Must prepare the area to be cleaned; terrifies some kids
- From the inspection of cleaning the little guy, it sure picks up hair, dust and small debris really well.
- Its pretty good at finding its way home
- Beware small children might scream and run from the little robot
- It is great to run at night but does require 10 minutes to clean.
out of 116 user reviews
Could be good, but
Pros: Cute, gets under the couch, gets floor fairly clean
Cons: Poor service from iRobot
out of 116 user reviews
"Reliability and Customer support are VERY POOR"
Pros: Very good idea
Cons: Impossible to get it fixed after short use.
That is $30 to try their product.
out of 116 user reviews
Extremely Unreliable
Pros: Fun when it works
Cons: Extremely Unreliable
out of 116 user reviews
SIMPLY AMAZING!
Pros: Always have clean floors with the push of a button.
Cons: Still need regular vacuum for deep-cleaning.
out of 116 user reviews
Unreliable; product not supported by company
Pros: While it worked, it cleaned well
Cons: Failed in <1 month; company refused to replace or refund
out of 116 user reviews
Reliability and Customer support are poor
Pros: When it works, it works well
Cons: Reliability and Customer
out of 116 user reviews
Best investment I ever made
Pros: convenience, ease of use, intelligent
Cons: I don't yet own the Dirt Dog
out of 116 user reviews
extremely convenient
Pros: saves on backpain
Cons: later models unavailable in Australia
out of 116 user reviews
This is not a reliable product
Pros: Looks pretty!!!
Cons: Sent in for 3 repairs the first year of use
out of 116 user reviews
Awesome, I don't have to clean up after myself
Pros: Can do other things while it works its magic
Cons: Not super quiet, but what vacuum is?
out of 116 user reviews
Surprisingly Effective
Pros: 100% Effortless
Cons: Dogs may bark at it.
Thankfully, I was very, very wrong. Some friends of mine got together and got me this for my birthday. Boy, did they know what I needed: with three kids, two dogs, a cat, and dozens of visitors per month, I needed a user-friendly cleaning tool -- and one that would save me time instead of creating new problems. Expecting a headache of assembly with instructions in Nepali, I only had to charge it overnight before it was ready to go; expecting it to sputter and burst into flames when confronted with the chaos of my carpets, it left a clean little trail behind it wherever it went; expecting it to get stuck in my maze of chairs, it seemed to memorize the layout of my rooms and extricate itself from entanglements; expecting its battery to die within ten minutes, it ran for almost an hour before it was finished and returned by itself to its charger.
And it may seem silly, but the entertainment value is quite potent. Not only does it do its job well, it also does it cutely -- it's easy to think of it like a pet. Her name is Uma the Roomba, and she might be in our Christmas pictures this year.
out of 116 user reviews
Love Hate relationship
Pros: turn on and let it run, easy to use
Cons: regular failure, poor customer service
out of 116 user reviews
Great! For such a new technology
Pros: cordless, time saver, cleanest my house has been
Cons: can't do stairs, some longeivity issues
It's a little balky climbin up on my thick rug, but it does the job. In the bedrooms, halls and gym downstairs - it worked fantastically. Those rooms never looked cleaner, and it takes only about 5-10 minutes of effort to move the unit + clean the bin and rollers over 2000 sf of living space. NO CORDS, YIPPEE!
If you read all the reviews, and visit roombareview.com, there are plenty of tips for fixing the inevitable breakdowns. Mine hasn't broken down yet, but I have bought my 2 units on eBay very cheap just in case, plus one w/ automated scheduler for our dental office that saves us hundreds per month. I've still spent less than I did for one Miele canister vacuum that is used only for stairs now. Gotta love that!
out of 116 user reviews
iRobot Roomba Scheduler Vacuuming Robot
Pros: efficient, adaptable, practically invisible
Cons: can require some programming at first
Just kidding, of course. But it *seems* like these things are getting more user-friendly with each new version. My family just upgraded to the "Scheduler Vacuuming Robot," which, as the name implies, works on programmable schedules. Now when you and your spouse are at work and the kids are at school, you can smile at the thought of the Roomba vacuuming your carpets. Everyone comes home to cleanliness without even touching a vacuum. And if you're on vacation, or if you simply don't need so much vacuuming, there are seven different schedules to fit *your* schedule.
Like some of the other Roombas, you can block off its cleaning areas with "virtual walls." Also, it returns to its charger on its own after it's done vacuuming.
All in all, these things are getting so advanced and idiot-proof that the next version will probably be waiting patiently for you to spill something so it can zoom along and vacuum it up before you can clean it up yourself. Then maybe it'll fix you a drink, massage your shoulders, build a fire, and sing songs. But for now, the "Scheduler Vacuuming Robot" is the top of the line.
out of 116 user reviews
I really love my roomba, I recommend them.
Pros: Cleans floors and carpets under hard to reach places where vacuums won't go
Cons: Tassels on the carpet will jam and occasionally other spots
out of 116 user reviews
Roomba's sweeping roller has a problem
Pros: It cleans very well
Cons: The roller can damage the drive unit
out of 116 user reviews
Well Designed, Great Vacuuming, Would make a Great Gift
Pros: Easy to Use, Can get out of in and out of tight spots
Cons: Won't pick up the dirty socks
out of 116 user reviews
Great machine!
Pros: very convenient when your rush for time
Cons: Bad warranty service
out of 116 user reviews
Jameson Thottam quick analysis of the Roomba Discover
Pros: Sensors and fixes - Jameson Thottam
Cons: Still issues on battery - Jameson Thottam
Synopsis on Roomba : Jameson Thottam
I've been a Roomba user for almost two years, so I know the benefits of a little automated vacuum. However we had three primary complaints that iRobot has addressed in this new version:
1. Inconvenience of coming home to a dead battery
2. Difficult to clean
3. Noisy
4. Could not focus on dirtier areas; only cleaned randomly.
Creature of Habit: Jameson Luke Thottam
1. We have gotten into the habit of, as we are walking out the door, putting the Roomba to work. However, we always used to have the problem of coming home to Roomba with a dead battery (inevitably it would die in the worst spots, like under our bed just out of reach). Then we would have to plug him in to our charger (which we had to shell out sixty bucks for) and wait for two hours to use him again. That was complaint one for the old version.
iRobot has fixed the battery issue on the Discovery. The fast charger (which we had to pay for before) is now built in.
Docking is Great: Jameson L. Thottam
Secondly, and what has proven to be my favorite new feature of the new Roomba, the little vacuum automatically finds his docking station when his battery is about dead. I do have two recommendations on this note, however. The docking station appears to work just like a virtual wall, Roomba doesn't know that it is there unless it crosses its path, so you make sure that it is in a wide open room where Roomba is sure to cross its path in its waning minutes of power. Secondly, now you have to be extra sure to Roomba-proof the room so that he doesn't get stuck. If he's stuck he won't be able to find his way back to the charger.
Cleanliness is Close to Godliness: Jameson L Thottam
2. The new version has gotten much easier to clean, especially the main brush. All the pieces now pop in and out of place easier and there are no screws to remove any of the pieces that need cleaning. This has proven to be a huge benefit.
Shhh....Jameson Thottam
3. The Discovery is noticeably quieter than the older versions, especially on tile surfaces.
Sense of Life....Jameson Thottam
4. The new line of Roomba Floorvacs comes with sensors that can detect dirt. That was the first thing we tested when we got our Discovery. I had pieces of Styrofoam broken into small pieces and it detected it and automatically performed a spot clean on that area. Then I put him in the kitchen where I had accidentally dumped a bag of cereal on the floor and then managed to step on it...Roomba focused on that area and cleaned up every little crumb.
Sense of Life....James Thottam
We love Roomba. I 100% recommend that you get one. [...] I bought mine at a local store in the mall and had to return my Pro Elite version 4 times before I finally got one that wasn't buggy. Then, under the warrantee, after my fourth one went on the fritz I was able to upgrade to the Discovery for free. So far after 2 weeks, the Discovery has been bug-free.
Still get a Warranty....Jameson Thottam
Nevertheless, because of the many issues that I have had in the past, and as with any new and emerging technology, buy it where you can purchase an extended warrantee and easily return defective devices.
Final thoughts....Jameson Thottam
Notwithstanding, buy a Roomba. Even though my wife and I never have time to clean our floors have been spotless for the last two years.
I hope this helps.
Jameson Thottam
out of 116 user reviews
Not reliable, on my 3rd unit in 1 year
Pros: Light cleaning
Cons: Breaks every 3 months, cust svc reluctant to xchange
Battery only lasts 1 year but worse is the roomba unit itself which only lasts 3 months and you have to send it back which takes a month to get back plus you have to pay shipping (around $18).
Remote control is useless. Roomba can only find its recharge station if it's limited to the same room, else if it roams the house, it'll run out of battery before it finds its home recharge station which send out a 3 feet beam.
Still a toy. I'll keep my old reliable standard vacuum which lasts for years and years.
Had to fight customer service supervisor for replacement battery.
out of 116 user reviews
Good try, returned after 5 days, hopeful for something better in the future . . .
Pros: Intelligent coverage algorithm; good size for access under furniture; good batterly life
Cons: Not enough suction; clogs quickly;
In the end, by the time I clipped the curtains up off the floor so it wouldn't get caught on them, moved the dog bowls, put the chairs up on the table, put up the bar stools, set up the invisible walls, and cleaned out the dustpan, brush and filter, I might as well have used a $13 Swifter during the same amount of time.
Not as automatic and hands-off as I would like. Returned to Sharper Image after five days.
If you do buy one, make sure it is manufactured after 6/1/05 as these have enhanced logic and better hardware underneath to avoid getting stuck in odd situations. The one I had (built 7/15/05) still got stuck on the edge of an oriental rug regularly.
out of 116 user reviews
Excellent with Right Waranty
Pros: Saves Time, Does Work for You, Improved from older model, Fast Charge, Dirt Self Sensing
Cons: Buggy, Requires Work
If however you are willing to tolerate some quirkiness and the occasional bug for the tremendous conveinance of Roomba then you will be happy with it. Roomba is still newer technology and they are still working out the bugs.
In two years I have had 5 replacements for my Roomba. While I wish this was not so I don't get upset by it. I just feel it is par for the course as an early adopter of new technology.
My biggest piece of advice is to buy this item from a place that has a lifetime warranty such as www.hammacher.com - that is where we have bought ours and they have truly exceptional customer service. They have shipped us a new unit and paid for postage both ways, 4 times due to bugs with no hassles. We were able to upgrade to the next model for just 10.00 (from ProElite to Discovery). Roomba customer service on the other hand is terrible, if you are planning on relying on them for your warranty don't buy the product.
The Roomba Discovery is much better than the ProElite in several ways. It is easier to clean, has a bigger dustbin and a built in fast charger. If you have primarily hard woods floors, pets or relatively obstacle free paths this is a good purchase for you. We have been happy overall with our unit even with 5 returns in 2 years.
Peace,
Tenn
http://schoolathome.blogspot.com
out of 116 user reviews
WOW!its better then my upright!!
Pros: cleans under everything, gets all the dirt, cleans by itself, perfectly safe, very quite.
Cons: no cons for this amazing product!
out of 116 user reviews
buggy machine, awful customer service
Pros: perfectly effective vacuum--but only twice
Cons: broke within a week. zero responsiveness from cust service
The first problem is this: it developed a bug in its charging system after two uses and couldn't take even a minimal charge.
The fatal problem is their support. I called customer service and waited 28 minutes on hold while alternating male/female voices emphatically declared the importance of my call and their palpable urgency to answer. Eventually I hung up and called the number to buy a new one. An operator immediately answered and was able to transfer me to the customer service supervisor. The defect required me to send in two parts of my machine (on their nickle), and they promised to promptly send an entire replacement machine. This sounded good, but it's been a month since I sent my unit back, and I still have no working vacuum. After more endless holds at customer service I learned that my part is on backorder, with no predicted arrival date.
My advice is to try a different company until this one gets its act together.
out of 116 user reviews
Fun toy, good mothers day gift, if you don't have a dyson vaccuum use this money towards that
Pros: Keeps the floors dust free; Does great with the dog fur; no more losing the charger
Cons: Has some trouble on the fringed rugs; has some trouble around the bar stools; Isn't sufficient for large messes; the virtual walls are a little bulky and have to be shut off manualy
out of 116 user reviews
Perfect Fit!
Pros: Great for anyone with hardwoods, don't like to vacuum, and have pets (pet hair)
Cons: Doesn't do that great on rugs.
out of 116 user reviews
Great value, plus stylish and fun!
Pros: Size, self-sufficiency, looks
Cons: Doesn't do stairs... but I don't have any anyway!
out of 116 user reviews
Life's hectic, Roomba's helpful
Pros: Takes over your cleaning tasks like a friend who owes a favor
Cons: Obviously, no human touch . . . but that's the beauty
By now, you have probably heard of the wizards at iRobot, designers of robots for both home use and on the battlefields. They were the first company to make this sort of technology available to all gadget-hungry consumers. Since then, robotic vacuums from other brands have arrived on the market, but none bear the impressive and respected iRobot moniker.
And what’s in a name, you may famously quote. Well, name or not, the Roomba can swirl and jerk and boogie its way over both hardwood and carpeted floors with just a push of a button. Turn it on and watch the chaotically controlled dance of the Roomba as it detects where grime – including dust, hair, fur, and other minute detritus that collects in your home – has reared its inevitable head and cruises towards the dirt in order to eradicate it. You can watch with stupefied astonishment as the Roomba does the job or you can watch your soaps in the next room, but in either case, you don’t have to do the vacuuming. Use one of the Virtual Wall devices (mine came with one, but I’m not sure all the models give you one with purchase, although it is simple enough to buy one online) to fence off the area you want the Roomba to clean. The vacuum is especially helpful for those of us who, due to injuries or age or what have you, find it difficult to stoop down or bend our knees for prolonged periods. And of course, for those of us who are physically fit but overworked and tired, the Roomba saves us some much needed time.
But does it do a good job? I suppose no robot can ever completely substitute the efforts of a determined and thorough human being – yet. Give the folks at iRobot some time, and I’m certain they could invent robots that work with the methodical mania of an OCD sufferer. But even an individual with a boundless capacity for cleaning will want to relax once in a while, and the Roomba eases your doubts about propping yourself onto the couch, digging into a bag of pretzels, and yelling at Simon as he smirks behind the judges’ booth. As if I needed another reason to endorse the Roomba, a fraction of the proceeds for the Pink Ribbon model goes towards breast cancer research. All in all, I give my family a thumbs-up for their Mother’s Day efforts this year. If only raising the kids were this easy . . .
out of 116 user reviews
The Roomba, my lifesaver!
Pros: Lightweight, mobile, compact, does what I'm unable to do
Cons: Small print on the buttons were difficult to read for me (I'm blind as a bat!)
Since I was unable to lift any amount of weight without substantial pain, pushing a heavy, upright vacuum from room to room was out of the question for me. With the Roomba, it's so lightweight that I can easily lift it if I have to, and then best of all, turn it on and WATCH it go, rather than dragging and pushing it around! My road to recovery is so much smoother now that my little helper is around! As you can tell, “he” is regarded with much affection around these parts! I’m just so happy that I can have clean floors without putting in the effort, or putting up with the pain.
out of 116 user reviews
would be great if it was working longer than 5 months without needin repair
Pros: great when new
Cons: fragile and gadget + poor customer support
out of 116 user reviews
I bought the Roomba Timer 4 months ago and it works great except
Pros: cleans great
Cons: No scheduler
Do you need to put your Roomba on an Automatic Schedule for Cleaning? All Roomba models do not have anyway to start it to clean automatically without manually pressing a button to start it. I also found it annoying to have to constantly avoiding it when it was cleaning when I was at home. I thought I would let you know it is now possible to put you Roomba on an unattended clean schedule with the Roomba Timer. You have the ability with this Roomba Timer to set any 3 start times during a 24 Hr period to start its cleaning cycle unattended when you are not home.
I bought the Roomba Timer 4 months ago and it works great. I set it to start cleaning at 2:00 am in the morning and I wake up to a clean house. I also have it start cleaning at 12:00 noon while I'm at work so I come home to a clean house.
Hope this information will help you get more out of your Roomba now or in the future.
Check this site out if you need more information or would like to order one.
http://www.acomputeredge.com/roomba
Bookmark this site you may need it in Future
out of 116 user reviews
Mighy Fine Robot
Pros: does my work
Cons: takes a bit of time
out of 116 user reviews
This Baby Is the Tops!
Pros: Too many to list
Cons: It doesn't talk
out of 116 user reviews
time saver
Pros: does the vacuuming that i hate doing
Cons: does not do stairs
out of 116 user reviews
I really think this thing does a good job. I was skeptical at first but it has shown me to be useful
Pros: small and cutting edge. this is definitely the start of a new era of vacuum.
Cons: cant jump stairs so it needs to avoid stairs or face a fall
out of 116 user reviews
Time Saver
Pros: -The ability to have your vacuuming done while you do other things is a huge plus. -Cleans along baseboards and under furniture very well. -Not a hazard to small children. The side brush is harmless, and the unit automatically shuts off if picked up. -Lig
Cons: -Tends to get stuck on light throw rugs, as all vacuums do. I use the remote to manually clean the throw rugs first, then leave them out of the way while the Discovery cleans the room. -Got caught on an electrical cord once.
out of 116 user reviews
Works good on dog hair
Pros: Vacuum while you take a nap in another room. I vacuum more often. I vacuums under my bed, sofa, hutch, entertainment center , chairs, etc. Spouse can't say they have been vacuuming all day.
Cons: It's a month old and the wheels are sqeaking.
out of 116 user reviews
Great for Maintenance Vaccuuming
Pros: Intelligent system allows navigating around rooms without the need to program. Dirt detection system works well. Vacuum's kitchens/bathrooms and hardwood floors excellently - very good for keeping dust and pet hair off of floors. Automatically returns to
Cons: Battery life could be improved - as well as suction power. Great for superficial carpet/hardwood floor debris but cannot replace high power vacuums. Can get tangled up with shoe laces or phone cord like cables. Sometimes it fails to returns to charging do
out of 116 user reviews
Good Stuff Packed in a Little Package
Pros: Small (easy to store) and it does the work for you. I hate to vacuum so this invention didnt come soon enough. Very light.
Cons: Has trouble with tassled rugs, wish it could go up and down steps.
out of 116 user reviews
A vacuum hater's dream
Pros: I hate vacuuming - something about the noise I guess because I also hate the blow-dryer. This thing does a good job at keeping the dirt from piling up. Some wag brought confetti to my new years eve party and my roomba has done a good job search and destro
Cons: It is excellent on my low pile carpet and on wood floors, but finds the shag in my spare bedroom too much of a challenge.
out of 116 user reviews
Not a bad vacuum at all.
Pros: Does an excellent job on the spots it can pickup. Very intuitive robotics. Fun to watch. Remote definitely a good idea.
Cons: Can't really be left unsupervised. Sometimes has a problem especially around fireplace if bricks are 1/2" o 3/4" higher than carpet. Gets caught on wires smaller than extension cables, i.e. speaker wires, or it's own base station's power cable etc. Has p
out of 116 user reviews
Great time saver - definitely a winner.
Pros: Fantastic job of wood floors. Does a better job of corners and edges than my upright. Like the way it doesn't blow the dust all over the place. Love the way it goes under furniture. Love the way it automatically docks itself when it is low on power. Works
Cons: Bought 3, took 1 back day after and it was replaced by Home Depot, it spent a lot of time going around in circles and kept trying to climb up granite fire surround and coffee table legs. The other 2 did not do this. Would love to see a mini version that c
out of 116 user reviews
Not initially happy with receiving a device/vacuum for a gift, I was thinking vacation, but my mind
Pros: cute, efficient, quiet, light weight
Cons: might get stuck on cords.
out of 116 user reviews
I was wrong... This is great.
Pros: I laughed at my girlfriend when she bought the new Roomba Discovery. She had seen it on TV and I was convinced that she was being suckered and that this crazy little machine would join her ThighMaster and food dehydrator in the garage. But I was completel
Cons: I didn't think of getting one first!
out of 116 user reviews
If you're a neat freak.. you are never happy anyway
Pros: Does what it is advertised to do. goes under almost everything gets along walls and corners pretty decently priced at a decent vacuum level a must for people with jobs and shedding pets.
Cons: seems a little fragile small dirt holder could be stronger (if it were bigger i guess) takes a long time.. but hey.. its not your time not the best job.. but better than the average working parent is going to do, and you can do it all day if you want.
out of 116 user reviews
Painless cleaning.
Pros: Much better than the 1st model, which was pretty good too. Better motor, quiter, much bigger dust bin, needs less tending to - much less. Decent results. Endearing, my mom talks to "Her." Many Geekier Than Thou points. Bottom line: It works and you don't.
Cons: Still needs an eye or ear on it sometime, but not all of the time, when in a cluttered room. Improved charge, but 3 hours is still a long time for an impulse cleaner like myself.
out of 116 user reviews
GREAT invention! It really works!
Pros: I got the Discovery SE and though I was skeptical when I bought it, I was amazed by it after using it. It really does what they claim it does. Though it does miss an occasional spot it is nothing compared to how well it does the rest of the time. I usu
Cons: Little pricey. $270 from brookstone.
out of 116 user reviews
Completes its design mission
Pros: Push the buttons and leave the house. Come home after a few hours to clean floors, clean carpets. Cleaning person used an electric vacum cleaner. Aftwards I set Roomha loose. I filled up the dirt container so I can safely say, it works.
Cons: Can get stuck on heavy pile carpets but now I've taken to folding the edges backwards so the unit sees it as a wall.
out of 116 user reviews
Great Product, Performance and Conversation
Pros: Ive had this for a month and it works great. Gets most spots and others can be easily accessed with the remote. Seems to pick up most dirt from carpet and makes weekly cleaning a breeze if you have pets.
Cons: Next model should offer programable cleaning times with self docking capabilities. Canister is small but so is vaccuum. Must clean brush often but simple to do.
out of 116 user reviews
Time for more robots
Pros: It does actually save me time and keeps my kitchen floor a lot cleaner. More time for relaxing, less grunt work.
Cons: I wish it came in a choice of colors.
out of 116 user reviews
I'm head-over-heels
Pros: I am head-over-heels for roomba. I think my husband is getting jealous of my roomba because I can’t stop raving about it. Ladies, stop trying to get your husband to clean and ask him to buy you one of these instead. It is always willing, doesn’t complain,
Cons: Husband's jealousy!
out of 116 user reviews
Fun to vacuum
Pros: It's fun, it's easy, it makes my house cleaner. I usually hate vacuuming, so this product really appealed to me. I've only had it a couple of weeks but so far my house is cleaner than it's been in years. It goes under the beds, which alone make it good va
Cons: It does take a while to do a room, but it sure beats me doing it.
out of 116 user reviews
Glorious Gizmo!
Pros: I was thinking of hiring a housecleaner until I found this technological marvel. I read reviews about Roomba’s earlier models and it seems that the makers of this product are very responsive- all the complaints about battery life, recharging time and inad
Cons: Yet to find any.
out of 116 user reviews
plays nice
Pros: The Roomba Discovery is good for everyday light cleaning. It ignores the dog and the dog has adjusted to it and doesn’t bark anymore. It does have a safety-off mechanism so it’s safe. If it’s picked up or flipped, it goes off. Overall, I recommend it.
Cons: none so far -- have had it 2 weeks!
out of 116 user reviews
I Would Buy It Again
Pros: I had heard good things about the regular Roomba, so I was excited about the Discovery. So far I have not been disappointed. It really works well on my lowpile carpets. I also run it in the kitchen. I haven't had any problems with it yet, so I can't reall
Cons: It's a shame it doesn't do windows.
out of 116 user reviews
Does a great job on the toughest room in my house
Pros: For me it has consistently done a good job cleaning our kitchen/dining area with wood floors, which includes a cooktop island and a full-sized dining table. I have 4 young kids, 3 of whom are old enough to fetch their own snacks, so you can imagine the ho
Cons: Rare instances of getting stuck in one odd corner. Could be faster. Navigation back to it's charging base is a rather slow searching process.
out of 116 user reviews
Cleaner Floors, Less Time Wasted
Pros: I’m not usually an early adopter, but I ordered a Discovery as soon as they became available. The only reason I never got one of the original roombas is that all the reviews said they were great except that the dustbins weren’t big enough and took too lon
Cons:
out of 116 user reviews
Buy it for the fun!
Pros: The new discovery model is even better than the original.
Cons: Cleans slowly, but who cares, you arent doing it. Heck, you could be out at dinner or at the movies. Some planning to prevent Roomba from getting stuck, will improve performance.
out of 116 user reviews
Even better than the original
Pros: I purchased the original Roomba shortly after it first came out, and it’s continued to be a huge time-saver and a great conversation starter. My only complaints about it were the size of the dustbin (too small) and the fact that I had to plug it back into
Cons: Although you don't have to dump the dustbin as often, you still have to remember to dump it regularly.
out of 116 user reviews
Well Worth The Price.
Pros: It has a diagnostic mode to asess the units status. Looks cool. Has the best CPR (Coverage Per Room Rating) in the world. Has Features most $1,000 FlooorVacs don't. Uses very advanced algorithms to make up for the fact that it does not have floor mapping.
Cons: Does not have floor mapping. Customer Service&Support are quite acceptable, but not what they should be for a device like this.
out of 116 user reviews
ITS NOT ON THE MARKET YET
Pros: How can all these people rate this when it's not being sold yet?
Cons: It has a reputation before it's even been born....too funny
out of 116 user reviews
Excellent, for my needs
Pros: Good cleaning - I was really surprised how well it does meduim pile carpets
Cons: Battery life and recharging time - you really need the fast charger Battery life wouldn't be a problem, but without the fast charger it takes between 12 to 15 hours to recharge
out of 116 user reviews
It's great!!!!
Pros: I love this machine. It works like a charm. I have a rottweiler that sheds on a daily basis and I have to used an upright more than I'd like to say. Having this around is simple. Before bed, just push "clean" and go to sleep. Wake up, with a nice cle
Cons: Not as much suction as I would like, but does seem to pick up the debris. Loud Banging into furniture.
out of 116 user reviews
Great little Roomba! Buy it!
Pros: Roomba is a cool dude. "He" can clean while I'm doing other things. I don't really worry how long it alone most of the time. He's fairly easy to find when stuck somewhere. The little guy has personality!
Cons: Batteries don't hold charge long enough. It would be more interesting if he talked to let you know he was stuck, out of charge, or what have you.
out of 116 user reviews
Best investment ever made
Pros: Cleans in places I never cleaned (e.g. under the sofa) After being done it returns to its charger and recharges, always ready for its next job. Cleans while I'm away.
Cons: Cleaning does take more time than it would manually (but on the other hand I don't have to do it manually anymore)
out of 116 user reviews
Robot Power
Pros: There something kind of fun and fascinating in using a robot to do your hum-drum chores around the house. It somehow makes me feel like technology is on my side for once. My little red Roomba is a whiz on my floors. I can’t believe all the dirt it uncover
Cons:
out of 116 user reviews
great time saver
Pros: I have the very 1rst model that came out from sharper image, sure it might run up on a chair & get stuck sometimes, but heh its great to turn it on, go shooing & come home to a clean house!
Cons: improve anything the battery life or recharging time
out of 116 user reviews
For people with too much money.
Pros: It sucks up dirt.
Cons: It costs a lot more than other things that suck up dirt.
out of 116 user reviews
2 TYPES THE MORE $$$$ IS BEST REMOTE
Pros: 2 TYPES THE MORE $$$$ IS BEST REMOTE, WOOD FLOORS CANT BE BEAT. I LOVE IT.
Cons: THE MORE MONEY REMOTE THAT CAME OUT ABOUT 1 YEAR LATER LOOKS LIKE A BETTER ONE TO GE4T VERY ODD SPOTS OR DAD TO USE LIKE TOY.
out of 116 user reviews
If it could only empty itself.
Pros: Just wonderful for what it was designed to do.
Cons: The brush soon becomes clogged with hair that wrap around the brush. Each hair is only 2 inches long but that seems to be enough to clog it up making it necessary for removal cleaning.
out of 116 user reviews
Good for small, uncluttered rooms
Pros: We were given the Roomba for our office, which has multiple small rooms. We can turn it loose in a 130 s.f. office and it does a great job of vacuuming it in about 15 minutes, while the room isn't being used.
Cons: Requires a lot of prepping of a room. You have to block off cords. It eats cords. You have to move wastebaskets and chairs.
out of 116 user reviews
Incredibly Useful for Specific Needs
Pros: I set it to run in the morning on my way out the door for work and it will go through my room and bathroom while I am gone. It does not miss any spots as long as you set the room size properly. Easy to clean dust bin and excellent at dealing with getting
Cons: Over time long hair and carpet fibres build up around the wheels and sweeper causing loss of suction and poor movement. Does take a long time to clean versus a vacuum which makes the noise more of a nuisance. Have to remove throw rugs as it gets stuck e
out of 116 user reviews
GREAT gift for the wife...
Pros: While I realize that this is new technology, I also feel that this device works almost as well as our $$$$ vaccuum cleaner. My wife, upon receiving the Roomba as a Mothers' Day Gift, told me that this was the FIRST device given to her which didn't require
Cons:
out of 116 user reviews
Maybe in a few years, but not yet
Pros: Actually does manage to pick up much of the dirt, cat hair, and other misc small stuff. Looks cool, great conversation piece.
Cons: Takes too long. Batteries too small. Should have a MUCH better program for mapping a room. How about a computer interface for programming areas that need cleaned and those that need avoiding, so I can create a map and download it?
out of 116 user reviews
My wife can't live without it!!!
Pros: We have two or the original Roombas (not Discovery) and we love dueling Rommbas. It definitely reduces the amount of time one needs to do any vacuumming. IF yo have any problem call IROBOT and they will fix it at no cost other than shipping it back to the
Cons: You will have some small problems and will have to mail it back to them(so save the carton) but they are great and while it is gone you will realize how much Roomba really help.
out of 116 user reviews
Even Bender on Futurama could do a better job!
Pros: It goes well with Todd Oldham inspired Target home decor. It's fun to watch as the household pets scatter in a panic! Well actually my friend's pit bull terrier destroyed it in a few chomps.
Cons: For what you pay, you get very little cleaning power. The canister has zilch for dirt capacity. Virtual walls are expensive. They don't always work.
out of 116 user reviews
Every cat owner should have one
Pros: The Roomba provides a really easy way to stay ahead of the hairballs a few beloved felines can generate. It's also wonderful that it zips under beds, desks, and other heavy furniture with out any requirement to move that furniture. The online and phone su
Cons: Because it's circular in shape, it does leave some stuff in the far corners. More importantly, it doesn't have the cord and attachments a regular vac has for getting doing above-floor level cleaning.
out of 116 user reviews
Entertaining albeit Slow
Pros: Effective automatic vacuuming of entire area (sometimes multiple times). High "Gee Whiz" factor. Great for under sofas, beds, chairs, around table legs, etc. Lightweight.
Cons: Slow - takes lots longer than conventional vacuum. Very long recharging time. Gets caught up in drapes, cords, rug edges, etc.
out of 116 user reviews
Worth the proce
Pros: Works well on the hardwood floors with hair from 3 big labradors!
Cons: Doesn't get everything, but then neither do I when I vaccuum!
out of 116 user reviews
It can't replace a real vacuum
Pros: The Roomba does an adequate job for the consumer that works most of the time. You can start it in the morning as you leave for work and save yourself the hassle when you get home.
Cons: The suction is terrible. What do you expect for a battery-powered vacuum. Expect to be pulling hair out of the brush on a daily basis. Any room you use it in will also need to be constantly free of any items that could catch the roomba along it's sweep.
out of 116 user reviews
Works almost as well as they advertise
Pros: Works great by itself. Very thourough. Picks up very small particles. Cleans best on hard surfaces.
Cons: Has a weak link in the drivetrain, a small o-ring is the drive belt. Won't last on high friction surfaces. IE, carpet, especially any type deeper than outdoor, industrial length nap.
out of 116 user reviews
Excellent product with some "room" for improvement
Pros: Cleans exceptionally well. Quiet compared to traditional ones. It cleans underneath the coffee table without lifting it.
Cons: As I said, it has a long way to improve itself. Traditional vacuum cleaners are developed by several companies with fierce competition over 50 years. If more and more companies get into this market, all of its glitch and problem will be solved.
out of 116 user reviews
just didn't work very well
Pros:
Cons: We got one of these a while ago. It leaves the worst tracks in our carpet and doesn't really cover the whole room. We stopped using it almost as soon as we got it. Recommend you SAVE your money and do NOT get this piece. It's worthless.
out of 116 user reviews
Super idea but..
Pros: Cleans very well. Hard to be believe, but its random alogarithm really does manage to cover the entire cleaning area and the results are truly impressive. Easy to use. Knows not to fall off stairs. Great for cleaning under beds. Lost it only once and beep
Cons: After 4 months of use, and right after the warranty expired, one of the wheels stopped turning and my Roomba now only turns around in one place. I don't want to mail it in for service, and there are no service centers nearby so my favourite cleaner now si
