## iRobot Roomba s9+ vs. Roborock Qrevo Slim: A Detailed Comparison
Choosing the right robot vacuum can feel like a daunting task, especially with so many options available. Today, we’re diving deep into a comparison between two high-end models: the iRobot Roomba s9+ and the Roborock Qrevo Slim. Both promise top-tier cleaning, but they approach the task with different strengths and weaknesses. Let’s break it down.
Design and Build
The Roomba s9+ sports a distinctive D-shape, which is designed to get into corners and along edges more effectively than traditional round robots. It has a premium feel, with a matte finish and a substantial build. The clean base, which is the self-emptying bin, is quite large and adds to the overall footprint.
On the other hand, the Roborock Qrevo Slim is all about its low profile. At just 3.2 inches tall, it’s designed to slip under furniture that other robots can’t reach. It also has a sleek, modern look with a matte finish. The docking station is a multi-functional hub, which is a significant difference from the Roomba’s simpler base.
When it comes to cleaning, the Roomba s9+ is a beast on carpets. It boasts exceptional deep cleaning capabilities, pulling up embedded dirt and debris with its powerful suction. In tests, it has been shown to remove a very high percentage of sand from carpets. The D-shape and wider brush roll also contribute to its excellent edge and corner cleaning. However, it can struggle with larger debris and can be quite loud, especially on its highest power setting.
The Roborock Qrevo Slim, while not as powerful in terms of raw suction, still delivers excellent vacuuming performance on both hard floors and carpets. It uses a dual brush roll system to pick up various types of debris effectively. It also has a very effective mopping function with dual spinning pads, which is a feature the Roomba lacks. The Qrevo Slim’s mopping is a standout feature, with adjustable water levels and automatic mop lifting when it detects carpets.
Navigation and Mapping
The Roomba s9+ uses a camera-based mapping system, which is good but not as precise as lidar-based systems. It can sometimes be a bit clunky in its navigation, bumping into obstacles more frequently than some competitors. However, it does have smart mapping capabilities, allowing for room-by-room cleaning and multi-floor support.
The Roborock Qrevo Slim uses a StarSight navigation system, which combines dual LiDAR, 3D ToF, and an RGB camera. This system provides excellent navigation and obstacle avoidance. It maps your home quickly and efficiently, and it generally avoids getting stuck. However, it can occasionally get confused, especially if furniture is moved.
Features and Convenience
The Roomba s9+ comes with a self-emptying bin, which is a huge convenience. The clean base automatically empties the dustbin after each cleaning, reducing the need for frequent manual emptying. However, it does require bag replacements, which adds to the long-term cost.
The Roborock Qrevo Slim has a multi-functional dock that not only empties the dustbin but also washes and dries the mop pads, and refills the mop tank. This is a significant advantage in terms of convenience and automation. The Qrevo Slim also has a user-friendly app with advanced features, including pet-specific options.
Pros and Cons
Roomba s9+ Pros:
- Exceptional carpet deep cleaning: It outperforms most other robot vacuums on carpets.
- Very powerful suction: It has a high suction power, measured at 22 CFM on high power.
- Excellent edge and corner cleaning: The D-shape design and brush placement are very effective.
- Effective hair pickup: It handles hair with minimal tangling.
- Self-emptying bin: The clean base provides convenience and reduces maintenance.
Roomba s9+ Cons:
- Premium investment: It is significantly more expensive than most robot vacuums.
- Shorter battery life: It may require recharge and resume for larger homes.
- Clunky navigation: It can bump into obstacles more frequently than lidar-based robots.
- Can be quite loud: Especially on its highest power setting.
- Requires bag replacements: Adding to long-term costs.
Roborock Qrevo Slim Pros:
- Low profile design: It can clean under more furniture.
- StarSight navigation system: It provides good navigation and obstacle avoidance.
- Excellent vacuuming performance: It performs well on both hard floors and carpets.
- Effective mopping: It has dual spinning pads, adjustable water levels, and automatic mop lifting.
- Multi-functional dock: It has auto-emptying, mop washing/drying, and self-cleaning features.
Roborock Qrevo Slim Cons:
- Navigation can be occasionally confused: Especially after furniture is moved.
- Raw suction power is lower than average: Compared to other models.
- Internal dust bin is small: Requiring frequent auto-emptying, especially with pet hair.
- Object avoidance is not perfect: It can still get tangled in cords.
Final Thoughts
Both the Roomba s9+ and the Roborock Qrevo Slim are excellent robot vacuums, but they cater to different needs. The Roomba s9+ is a powerhouse for carpet cleaning, while the Roborock Qrevo Slim excels in versatility and convenience with its mopping capabilities and multi-functional dock. If you have mostly carpets and need the best deep cleaning, the Roomba s9+ might be the better choice. However, if you have a mix of hard floors and carpets and value a low-profile design and advanced mopping features, the Roborock Qrevo Slim is a strong contender.