Roomba J7+ vs I4+ are two of the most popular robot vacuum cleaners on the home cleaning market, each competing for the top spot. This is an undisputed winner, according to me: the Roomba J7+.
Roomba J7+ is a fully-featured hybrid robot that offers great versatility. With powerful suction and a built-in brush, it gets the job done quickly. In addition, it also has an integrated camera and supports audio connections.
Like its competitors, the Roomba I4+ also has impressive suction power. The compact design is very effective in cleaning corners and edges, and the rubber roller brush has good anti-tangle properties.
Irobot Roomba J7+ Vs I4+: Comparison Chart
Irobot Roomba J7+ Vs I4+: Differences
Cleaning performance
Hardwood floor
| Roomba J7+ | Roomba I4+ |
|---|---|
| ≈ 100% | ≈ 99% |
I tested the cleanliness of two robots when given a cleaning test with debris, such as coffee grounds, cat litter, cereal grains, etc., to evaluate their performance.
On hardwood floors, J7+ removes 100% of residue. Meanwhile, the I4+ also collects 98% of all debris. Overall, I am quite satisfied with the hard floor cleaning performance of these two machines.
Carpets
| Roomba J7+ | Roomba I4+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Low-pile carpet | ≈ 96% | ≈ 95% |
| High-pile carpet | ≈ 98.4% | ≈ 94% |
On low-pile carpets, the iRobot Roomba J7+ vs I4+ didn’t perform as well as we expected, only removing 95% of the total debris. Most of the debris left behind is sugar, with small amounts of cat litter and other debris mixed in.
However, when it comes to high-pile carpets, the J7+ makes an impression by removing 98.4% of all debris on our premium carpeted floors, leaving behind only small amounts of sugar and sand. cat hygiene. Meanwhile, Roomba I4+ only removes about 94% of debris.
Hair test
We placed long hairs directly in the cleaning paths of both the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ to see how effectively they could pick up the hairs and whether or not the hairs would become entangled in the brush rolls.
The J7+ performed impressively in the hair test. Its dual rubber brushes were adept at picking up long hairs without any signs of them getting tangled in the brush. This feature proves beneficial for households with pets or members with long hair, as it significantly reduces maintenance efforts and ensures consistent cleaning performance.
The I4+, while effective at picking up hairs, faced the issue of them getting tangled in its brush roll. This results in the vacuum having to struggle to untangle itself, which can pose problems in real-world usage.
Design & Usability
The winner: Roomba J7+
Dimensions & Weights
Both the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ robot vacuum cleaners are elegantly designed with user convenience in mind. The j7+, though sharing a similar aesthetic to the i4+, boasts a sleeker profile and a more compact cleaning base.
A distinctive feature in both models is the singular button located at the top, streamlining the user interface and offering easy access to most functionalities without necessitating the use of a smartphone. This is a nod to those who prefer tactile feedback over digital interfaces. Furthermore, both vacuums are equipped with a combination of cameras and LED lights on their fronts.
Extractor & Side Brush
Both the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ are impressively equipped with dual silicone brush rollers. This feature stands out as it ensures the vacuums can effectively agitate and lift dirt, debris, and even pet hair from diverse floor types, be it carpets or hard floors. The use of rubber rollers has also brought a noticeable advantage: a significant reduction in hair tangling. In tests using short hair measuring approximately 5 inches, both models showcased commendable detangling abilities.
However, a distinction emerges when dealing with longer hairs, ranging from 7 to 10 inches. In these instances, the Roomba J7+ outperformed its I4+ counterpart. Careful observation revealed fewer hairs entwined on the J7+’s rollers compared to the I4+, implying reduced maintenance needs for J7+ users, especially in households with occupants having longer hair.
Augmenting their cleaning prowess, both the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ feature a side brush that has been thoughtfully designed with long-bristled prongs. This addition is not merely cosmetic; it plays a pivotal role in enhancing edge cleaning. By effectively drawing out debris tucked away near the walls, these side brushes ensure that no area is left untouched during the cleaning cycle, thereby guaranteeing a comprehensive cleaning experience.
Navigation
In assessing the navigational abilities of the Roomba J7+ vs I4+, we subjected both models to rigorous testing in a typical living room environment. Across multiple runs, both robots were generally adept at covering the expanse of the room during the day. However, their nighttime performance revealed a notable limitation. Both vacuums seemed dependent on sufficient ambient light to function optimally. As a result, they were reluctant to venture into dimly lit or shadowed areas, leaving some spots untouched.
The real distinction emerged in the domain of obstacle detection and avoidance. The Roomba J7+ showcased remarkable proficiency in this aspect. Even when confronted with small and lightweight obstacles like a pet toy, the J7+ displayed a keen sense of awareness, seamlessly sidestepping the object without resorting to physical contact with its front bumper. This suggests advanced sensory capabilities and sophisticated algorithms at play. In stark contrast, the Roomba I4+ left much to be desired. Instead of navigating around the pet toy, it ploughed right through, dragging the unfortunate object in its wake.
Control
The winner: Roomba J7+
Navigating the realm of robot vacuum controls, both the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ impress with their intuitive user interfaces. A singular button graces the surface of each model: a single press initiates the cleaning cycle, another halts it, and a prolonged press beckons the robot back to its base. This uncomplicated design certainly scores points for user-friendliness.
Diving deeper into the realm of control, both models extend their capabilities into the digital sphere. Compatible with both iOS and Android, their dedicated apps, available for free, provide a plethora of features. Whether it’s scheduling automated cleaning sprees or monitoring the wear and tear of components like filters and rollers, users have ample control at their fingertips.
Integration with popular home assistants such as Amazon Alexa, Apple Siri, and Google Home further enhances the user experience, offering voice-command functionalities. Whether you want to commence a cleaning cycle or send the robot back to its charging hub, you can do so without lifting a finger.
However, the scales tip in favour of the Roomba J7+ when exploring advanced features. Its capacity to store multiple maps, up to an impressive ten, gives it a discernible edge, especially for households with multiple floors or those desiring varied cleaning blueprints for different occasions.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Tie!
In the vital arena of cleaning and maintenance, both the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ exhibit commendable design attributes and functionalities. Due to their identical shapes, the placement of the trash can in both models is situated at the rear. This position is particularly convenient; the trash can’s location at the back means users won’t need to pull the robot away from its base station during disposal processes, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Volume-wise, both robots come equipped with a 400ml trash can, striking a balance between capacity and compactness. While the size ensures the collection of a substantial amount of dirt and debris, the volume is still manageable for easy disposal without causing undue strain.
Delving into user-centric features, the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ shine with their self-cleaning functionalities. This feature reduces the necessity for daily manual emptying, significantly lowering the maintenance overhead for users and streamlining the cleaning process. Furthermore, the incorporation of a bagging system in both models is a noteworthy feature. This system not only enhances hygiene standards by enclosing dirt and debris securely but also refines the disposal process. By containing the waste in a bag, users can avert potential spillages or obstructions in the machine, ensuring an efficient and tidy cleaning cycle.
Other Features
The winner: Roomba J7+
Noise
The realm of robot vacuum cleaners has often been under scrutiny for noise levels, given that a quieter operation often translates to a more comfortable user experience. In this context, both the Roomba J7+ vs I4+ offer a reassuringly subdued performance. Compared to several upright vacuums I’ve assessed, these robots indeed stand out for their relatively lower decibel output. This ensures that your daily activities, be it work, relaxation, or leisure, aren’t hampered by intrusive noise emanating from the cleaning process.
Yet, a caveat emerges when considering nocturnal operations. While the robots’ cleaning functions remain unobtrusive, the self-emptying feature in both models is considerably louder. This aspect can be especially problematic for those considering running these robots overnight. The sudden and pronounced noise generated during the self-emptying process could prove jarring, especially in the stillness of the night. Unless you’re among the rare breed of exceptionally deep sleepers, there’s a good chance this process could disturb your slumber.
Imprint Link
The integration of smart technology in robot vacuums has taken floor cleaning to a new dimension. The Imprint Link technology is one such example, enabling devices to communicate and coordinate their cleaning tasks. When examining the Roomba J7+ in light of this feature, it distinctly stands out.
The Roomba J7+ showcases the ability to work cohesively with the iRobot Braava M6 cleaning robot, thanks to the Imprint Link feature. This means that users can set up a sequential cleaning routine with minimal intervention: commence with the J7+ vacuuming the premises, and, upon its completion, the Braava M6 can be signaled to begin its mopping task. All of this can be seamlessly orchestrated through the dedicated app, making the entire process user-friendly and efficient. Such a synchronized cleaning operation ensures that floors are not just free from dust and debris but also spotlessly mopped, providing a comprehensive cleaning solution.
However, this added convenience comes with a caveat. To fully harness the power of the Imprint Link feature with the J7+, one would need to invest in the additional Braava M6 cleaning robot, incurring extra expenditure. Thus, while the feature is undeniably innovative and advantageous for those seeking an all-in-one cleaning solution, potential users should be prepared for the associated costs of acquiring both devices.
Quick Rundown Of Roomb J7+
- CLEANS WHEN AND WHERE YOU WANT– Only iRobot brings you Imprint Smart Mapping allowing you to control and schedule which rooms are cleaned and when, while storing multiple maps for easier cleaning on each level of your home.
- AVOIDS PET ACCIDENTS – WE GUARANTEE IT - IRobot brings you P.O.O.P. (Pet Owner Official Promise). You can rely on your Roomba j7+ to avoid pet waste, or we’ll replace it for free. Additional terms and conditions apply – see iRobot website for details.
- KNOWS WHAT TO CLEAN AND WHAT TO AVOID - The Roomba j7+ robot vacuum uses IRobot OS Technology and PrecisionVision Navigation to recognize and avoid common objects in its way like cords, pet waste, socks and shoes.
- MORE THOUGHTFUL THAN YOU THOUGHT - The Roomba j7+ takes vacuuming off your mind with personalized cleaning suggestions powered by the unique intelligence of IRobot OS. Learns your habits and your routines.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE. The 3-Stage Cleaning System packs 10x the Power-Lifting Suction, an Edge-Sweeping Brush gets along walls and corners, and Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes flex to adjust to different floor types. Compared to the Roomba 600 series.
Quick Rundown Of Roomba I4+
- Cleans up after you, and itself.
- Powerful performance and powerful pick-up.
- Guided by serious smarts.
- Vacuums messes in the moment.
- Complete control of your clean.
Product Videos
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References:
- Roomba J7+: https://www.irobot.com/en_US/roomba-j7plus-self-emptying-robot-vacuum/J755020.html
- Roomba I4+: https://www.irobot.co.uk/en_GB/irobot-roomba-i4/I455840.html#:~:text=Roomba%C2%AE%20i4%2B%20Self%2DEmptying,Vacuum%20Cleaner%20%7C%20iRobot%C2%AE%20%7C%20iRobot
Richard B. Schmidt is a prominent figure in the vacuum cleaner industry, boasting over 15 years of expertise. Armed with a Robotics Engineering degree from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Consumer Science from Harvard, his unique blend of technical knowledge and consumer insights positions him as a sought-after authority in vacuum cleaner evaluation. Richard’s career began at Dyson, where he contributed to the development of innovative vacuum models. Transitioning to advocacy and reviews, he co-founded the first Vacuum-focused blog in 2008, offering comprehensive analysis and user guides for various vacuum cleaners. In 2020, he founded RoboMop.net, providing ongoing insights through columns and buyer’s guides.