When it comes to robotic vacuums, iRobot’s Roomba series consistently leads the market with its blend of intelligent features, strong suction power, and reliable performance. The Roomba i3+ and Roomba i5+ are both highly regarded models in iRobot’s mid-range line, offering excellent cleaning capabilities along with automatic dirt disposal, which is a game-changer for those who want a hassle-free cleaning experience. Although these models share many similarities, they differ in certain features and performance aspects. This article will break down the key differences between the Roomba i3+ and Roomba i5+ to help you choose the best model for your home.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic and Size Comparison
Both the Roomba i3+ and Roomba i5+ have a sleek, round design, but there are some subtle differences in their looks and build quality.
- Roomba i3+: The i3+ has a dark gray finish and a minimalist design that complements most home interiors. It’s slightly smaller than the i5+ in terms of height, with a 13.34-inch diameter and 3.63-inch height, making it compact enough to fit under most furniture. The i3+ also features a cleaner lid and a simple button interface for easy control.
- Roomba i5+: The i5+ features a similar design, with a slightly lighter gray finish and a more polished look. It’s 13.34 inches in diameter and 3.63 inches in height, making it almost identical in size to the i3+. However, the i5+ comes with a more advanced visual indicator light and a premium finish for a more sophisticated feel.
| Feature | Roomba i3+ | Roomba i5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 13.34 inches | 13.34 inches |
| Height | 3.63 inches | 3.63 inches |
| Color | Dark Gray | Lighter Gray, Premium Look |
| Build Quality | Solid, Simple | Solid, More Refined |
In terms of design, both models are very similar, with the i5+ offering a slightly more premium look.
Cleaning Performance
Suction Power and Cleaning System
The cleaning performance of both the i3+ and i5+ is impressive, but there are some key differences in their suction power and cleaning modes.
- Roomba i3+: The i3+ is equipped with a 3-Stage Cleaning System, utilizing dual multi-surface rubber brushes to pick up dirt, dust, and pet hair. Its suction power is strong enough for most households, and it does a great job on both carpets and hard floors. It also features Edge-Sweeping Brushes to clean along walls and corners.
- Roomba i5+: The i5+ also comes with the 3-Stage Cleaning System and has comparable suction power to the i3+. However, the i5+ has an advanced carpet boost feature that automatically increases suction on carpets for deeper cleaning. This makes it a better option for homes with heavy carpeting or high-pile rugs.
| Feature | Roomba i3+ | Roomba i5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning System | 3-Stage Cleaning System | 3-Stage Cleaning System + Carpet Boost |
| Suction Power | Strong | Stronger with Boost Mode |
| Pet Hair Removal | Yes | Yes, with Boost Mode |
The Roomba i5+ provides better suction on carpets due to the advanced carpet boost, which can be a game-changer for homes with thick carpeting.
Smart Features and Connectivity
App Control and Integration
Both models are highly capable when it comes to smart home integration, allowing you to control the vacuum from your smartphone or via voice commands.
- Roomba i3+: The i3+ can be controlled through the iRobot Home App, which allows you to schedule cleanings, customize cleaning preferences, and track the vacuum’s performance. It also works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control to start or stop cleanings. However, it doesn’t offer advanced mapping capabilities.
- Roomba i5+: The i5+ includes all the features of the i3+, with the added benefit of Smart Mapping. This means it can map out your home and create more efficient cleaning routes. You can also set no-go zones within the app, which is particularly useful for homes with delicate furniture or areas you want to avoid. Like the i3+, the i5+ is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant.
| Feature | Roomba i3+ | Roomba i5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Mapping | No | Yes (With No-Go Zones) |
| App Control | iRobot Home App | iRobot Home App |
| Voice Control | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant |
The i5+ takes the lead with Smart Mapping and no-go zones, providing a more customizable cleaning experience.
Automatic Dirt Disposal
Self-Emptying Bin Feature
One of the standout features of both the i3+ and i5+ is the automatic dirt disposal feature, which empties the vacuum’s dustbin into a sealed bag within the charging base. This is a major convenience for those who don’t want to manually empty the bin after each cleaning.
- Roomba i3+: The i3+ comes with a Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal system that can hold several cleaning sessions’ worth of dirt. The 3-liter bag can be easily replaced when full, providing a low-maintenance experience.
- Roomba i5+: The i5+ features the same Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal system, but the dirt bin bag is designed to handle more debris, and the suction power is slightly stronger, allowing it to pick up more dirt per cleaning cycle.
| Feature | Roomba i3+ | Roomba i5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic Dirt Disposal | Yes | Yes |
| Bag Size | 3 liters | 3 liters (with Stronger Suction) |
Both models come with the same automatic dirt disposal feature, though the i5+ offers more powerful suction, meaning it can pick up more dirt per cycle.
Battery Life and Charging
Run Time and Efficiency
Battery life is an important consideration for robot vacuums, especially for larger homes.
- Roomba i3+: The i3+ offers up to 90 minutes of battery life per charge, which is more than enough for most medium-sized homes. Once the battery is low, it will automatically return to its charging base, recharge, and resume cleaning if necessary.
- Roomba i5+: The i5+ also offers up to 90 minutes of battery life, with similar auto-recharge and resume functionality. The difference lies in the slightly more efficient cleaning system in the i5+, which may make it more effective in larger or multi-room homes.
| Feature | Roomba i3+ | Roomba i5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 90 Minutes | 90 Minutes |
| Charging and Resume | Auto Recharges and Resumes | Auto Recharges and Resumes |
Battery life is identical for both models, with both providing sufficient cleaning time for medium-sized homes.
Price and Value
| Feature | Roomba i3+ | Roomba i5+ |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Mid-Range | Premium |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Excellent, with Premium Features |
The Roomba i3+ is generally more affordable than the i5+, making it a good option for those on a budget who still want automatic dirt disposal and reliable performance. The i5+, on the other hand, offers advanced features like Smart Mapping and advanced carpet cleaning, making it worth the extra investment for those who need more customization.
Who Should Choose Which?
| User Type | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Budget-Conscious | Roomba i3+ |
| Homes with Carpets | Roomba i5+ |
| Tech Enthusiasts | Roomba i5+ |
| Medium Homes | Roomba i3+ |
| Larger Homes | Roomba i5+ |
Final Verdict
Both the Roomba i3+ and Roomba i5+ are excellent robotic vacuums, but they cater to different needs.
- Choose the Roomba i3+ if you’re looking for a solid, budget-friendly robot vacuum that provides excellent cleaning power, automatic dirt disposal, and basic smart features. It’s great for smaller homes or users who don’t need advanced features like Smart Mapping.
- Choose the Roomba i5+ if you need a more premium model with advanced mapping capabilities, stronger carpet cleaning performance, and more customization options. It’s ideal for larger homes, homes with pets, or those who want more control over their cleaning routine.
In summary, the Roomba i5+ offers more advanced features, making it the better choice for those who want a more customized cleaning experience, while the i3+ provides excellent value for those who need essential features at a more affordable price.