The world of robotic vacuums is a competitive one, and iRobot's Roomba series is often considered to be among the best. In this comparison, we'll be pitting two high-end models against each other: the iRobot Roomba s9+ and the iRobot Roomba 981. Both of these roombas are designed to provide a top-notch cleaning experience, but they differ in several key ways.
Design and Navigation
The Roomba s9+ boasts a sleek and modern design, with a slim profile that allows it to fit under furniture with ease. It also features a advanced navigation system, which uses a combination of mapping technology and sensors to expertly navigate your home. This includes the ability to map out multiple floors and rooms, making it ideal for larger homes.
In contrast, the Roomba 981 has a more traditional design, with a slightly larger profile than the s9+. However, it still features iRobot's patented iAdapt navigation system, which uses a combination of sensors and mapping technology to navigate your home. While it may not be as advanced as the s9+'s navigation system, it's still highly effective and can easily handle most home layouts.
Cleaning Performance
Both roombas are equipped with powerful cleaning systems, but the s9+ has a slight edge when it comes to suction power. It features a 30-watt motor, which provides 22 air watts of suction power, making it ideal for picking up pet hair, allergens, and other debris. The 981, on the other hand, has a 20-watt motor, which provides 17 air watts of suction power.
In terms of cleaning modes, both roombas offer a range of options, including spot cleaning, scheduled cleaning, and manual cleaning. However, the s9+ also features a "keep out zone" mode, which allows you to designate certain areas of your home as off-limits to the robot. This is particularly useful for pet owners or those with sensitive equipment.
Battery Life and Charging
The Roomba 981 has a slightly longer battery life than the s9+, with up to 75 minutes of cleaning time per charge. The s9+, on the other hand, has a battery life of up to 60 minutes. However, both roombas feature advanced charging systems, which allow them to automatically return to their charging docks when their batteries are running low.
Voice Control and Smart Home Integration
Both roombas are compatible with popular smart home platforms like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control them with voice commands. However, the s9+ also features integration with iRobot's own app, which provides a range of advanced features, including customized cleaning schedules, maintenance alerts, and detailed cleaning reports.
Maintenance and Emptying
One of the most significant differences between these two roombas is their maintenance requirements. The Roomba 981 requires regular emptying of its dustbin, which can be a messy and time-consuming process. The s9+, on the other hand, features a self-emptying dustbin, which can hold up to 30 bins worth of debris. This means you'll only need to empty it every few weeks, making it a much more convenient option for busy households.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between these two roombas will depend on your specific cleaning needs and preferences. If you're looking for a high-end robot with advanced navigation and cleaning capabilities, the Roomba s9+ is the clear winner. Its sleek design, powerful suction power, and self-emptying dustbin make it an ideal choice for larger homes or those with pets.
On the other hand, if you're on a budget or prefer a more traditional robotic vacuum experience, the Roomba 981 may be the better option. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of the s9+, it's still a highly effective cleaner that can handle most home layouts with ease.
In conclusion, both of these roombas are excellent choices for anyone looking to upgrade their cleaning routine. With their advanced features, powerful suction power, and convenient maintenance options, they're sure to make quick work of even the toughest messes. Whether you choose the s9+ or the 981, you can rest assured that your home will be cleaner than ever before – thanks to the power of roombas!
