When considering a robotic vacuum cleaner, the Roomba i3 and Roomba i5 from iRobot are two excellent options that offer reliable performance at a more affordable price point compared to the brand’s high-end models. These vacuums come equipped with smart features, solid cleaning power, and iRobot’s patented technology, making them ideal choices for budget-conscious users who still want a quality cleaning experience. In this article, we’ll compare the Roomba i3 and i5, exploring their similarities, differences, and which model is best for your home.
Key Specifications: Roomba i3 vs i5
| Feature | Roomba i3 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.34 x 3.6 inches | 13.34 x 3.6 inches |
| Weight | 7.44 lbs | 7.44 lbs |
| Suction Power | 10x the suction of 600 Series | 10x the suction of 600 Series |
| Brush System | Dual Multi-Surface Brushes | Dual Multi-Surface Brushes |
| Navigation System | iAdapt® Navigation | iAdapt® Navigation |
| Battery Life | ~75 minutes | ~75 minutes |
| Recharge and Resume | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Clean Base™ Compatibility | No | Yes (Optional) |
| Price Range | Affordable | Affordable |
Design and Build Quality
Roomba i3: Simple and Practical
The Roomba i3 maintains iRobot’s signature round design with a clean, minimalistic aesthetic. Measuring 13.34 x 3.6 inches and weighing 7.44 lbs, it is compact enough to fit under most furniture and navigate tight spaces effectively. The i3 does not have the more premium finishes seen in other Roomba models, but its build quality is solid, and it performs consistently well for its price.
Roomba i5: Slightly Enhanced Features
The Roomba i5 shares a very similar design to the i3, with identical dimensions of 13.34 x 3.6 inches and weighing 7.44 lbs. However, the key difference lies in its added compatibility with the Clean Base™ Automatic Dirt Disposal, an accessory that allows the robot to empty its dustbin automatically. This small but useful addition makes the i5 a better option for users who prefer less maintenance. Otherwise, the overall design and build quality are nearly identical to the i3.
| Design Feature | Roomba i3 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.34 x 3.6 inches | 13.34 x 3.6 inches |
| Weight | 7.44 lbs | 7.44 lbs |
| Brush System | Dual Multi-Surface Brushes | Dual Multi-Surface Brushes |
| Navigation System | iAdapt® Navigation | iAdapt® Navigation |
| Clean Base™ Compatibility | No | Yes (Optional) |
Cleaning Performance
Suction Power: Consistent Cleaning
Both the Roomba i3 and Roomba i5 are equipped with 10x the suction power of the 600 Series, ensuring excellent performance across a range of surfaces. Whether cleaning hardwood floors, low-pile carpets, or medium-pile carpets, both models can pick up dirt, debris, and pet hair with ease. These vacuums feature Dual Multi-Surface Brushes, which work effectively to agitate dirt and debris from the floor, ensuring a deeper clean.
Pet Hair Performance
Both models perform exceptionally well on pet hair, with the i3 and i5 designed to tackle this common household issue. The Roomba i5 does have a slight edge for homes with pets due to the optional Clean Base™ compatibility, allowing it to empty its dustbin after each cleaning session. This can be especially beneficial in homes with heavy pet shedding, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.
| Cleaning Aspect | Roomba i3 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Suction Power | 10x the suction of 600 Series | 10x the suction of 600 Series |
| Pet Hair Pickup | Excellent | Excellent (with Clean Base™ Option) |
| Performance on Carpets | Great for Low and Medium Pile | Great for Low and Medium Pile |
| Hardwood Floors | Excellent | Excellent |
Navigation and Smart Features
iAdapt® Navigation
Both the Roomba i3 and i5 are equipped with iRobot’s iAdapt® Navigation, which allows them to clean efficiently by navigating around obstacles, furniture, and tight spaces. These models can map out the layout of your home, ensuring systematic cleaning rather than random patterns. Additionally, both models offer smart features like Wi-Fi Connectivity, enabling control via the iRobot Home app.
App Control and Scheduling
With the iRobot Home app, you can schedule cleanings, check the cleaning history, and control both models remotely. This app also allows you to set No-Go Zones where you don’t want the robot to go, making it easy to keep it away from delicate areas or specific rooms.
| Navigation Feature | Roomba i3 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation System | iAdapt® Navigation | iAdapt® Navigation |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| App Control | Yes | Yes |
| No-Go Zones | Yes | Yes |
Battery Life and Runtime
Similar Runtime
Both the Roomba i3 and i5 offer up to ~75 minutes of runtime, which is enough to clean most rooms in a single charge. For larger areas, both models return to their dock to recharge before resuming cleaning. The Recharge and Resume feature ensures that the robots don’t miss any spots.
| Battery Feature | Roomba i3 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Runtime | ~75 minutes | ~75 minutes |
| Recharge and Resume | Yes | Yes |
Maintenance and Accessories
Clean Base™ Compatibility
One of the major differences between the Roomba i3 and i5 is the Clean Base™ compatibility. The i5 can be paired with the Clean Base™ Automatic Dirt Disposal, which allows the vacuum to empty its dustbin automatically. This feature reduces maintenance and is especially useful in homes with pets or heavy foot traffic, as it decreases the frequency of manual dirt disposal.
Filter and Dustbin
Both vacuums come with a high-efficiency filter that captures small particles, making them ideal for homes with allergies. The dustbin on both models is easy to remove and empty, but the i5 offers the added convenience of the Clean Base™, so you don’t have to worry about emptying it after every cleaning.
| Feature | Roomba i3 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Base™ Compatibility | No | Yes (Optional) |
| Filter | High-efficiency filter | High-efficiency filter |
| Dustbin Size | Standard | Standard |
Price and Value
Affordable, Yet Powerful
Both the Roomba i3 and i5 are affordably priced compared to high-end models like the Roomba S9 and Roomba i7. The i3 offers excellent value for those seeking a reliable robotic vacuum with smart features and solid cleaning power. The i5 is only slightly more expensive, but its compatibility with the Clean Base™ and the ability to handle higher volumes of dirt make it a better option for homes with pets or heavy cleaning needs.
| Feature | Roomba i3 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Affordable | Affordable |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Excellent (with Clean Base™ Option) |
Final Verdict: Roomba i3 vs i5
- Choose the Roomba i3 if you want a reliable, budget-friendly robotic vacuum with strong cleaning performance and smart features, but you don’t need the added convenience of automatic dirt disposal.
- Choose the Roomba i5 if you want slightly more convenience with Clean Base™ compatibility, allowing for automatic dirt disposal, and if you have pets or need to empty the dustbin less frequently.
Both models are fantastic options for homes that need an affordable robotic vacuum that delivers solid performance, but the Roomba i5 is the better choice for those who need the extra cleaning convenience and automation.