iRobot has created a diverse lineup of robotic vacuums to meet different cleaning needs, and the Roomba i4 and Roomba i5 are two popular models in their mid-range series. Both vacuums offer solid cleaning performance, smart features, and easy-to-use interfaces, but they differ in some key areas that may make one a better fit for your home. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between the Roomba i4 and Roomba i5, comparing their design, cleaning abilities, smart features, and overall value to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality
Aesthetic and Size Comparison
The Roomba i4 and Roomba i5 have very similar designs, both sporting the signature round, compact shape that Roomba models are known for. However, there are minor differences in their appearance and build quality.
- Roomba i4: The i4 has a simple yet functional design, featuring a matte black finish with a clean, minimalist aesthetic. It’s compact, with a 13.34-inch diameter and 3.63-inch height, making it easy to maneuver under furniture.
- Roomba i5: The i5, while also compact, has a slightly more refined look with a lighter gray finish and a glossy top surface. Its dimensions are almost identical to the i4, with a 13.34-inch diameter and 3.63-inch height, so both models fit under furniture similarly.
| Feature | Roomba i4 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Diameter | 13.34 inches | 13.34 inches |
| Height | 3.63 inches | 3.63 inches |
| Color | Matte Black | Lighter Gray, Glossy Finish |
Both models are nearly identical in size, with the i5 having a slightly more polished finish.
Cleaning Performance
Suction Power and Cleaning System
Both the Roomba i4 and Roomba i5 feature a powerful 3-Stage Cleaning System that ensures a thorough clean, but there are differences in their suction power and performance.
- Roomba i4: The i4 provides strong suction and features dual multi-surface rubber brushes to grab debris from various surfaces, including carpets and hard floors. It also includes Edge-Sweeping Brushes that help clean along walls and corners, ensuring no dirt is left behind.
- Roomba i5: The i5 also includes the 3-Stage Cleaning System and offers comparable suction. However, the i5 is designed with an advanced carpet boost feature that automatically increases suction when cleaning carpets, making it particularly effective for homes with high-pile rugs or carpets.
| Feature | Roomba i4 | 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 |
If you have a lot of carpeted areas, the Roomba i5 offers enhanced carpet cleaning capabilities thanks to its advanced suction boost.
Smart Features and Connectivity
App Control and Navigation
Both models are compatible with the iRobot Home App, allowing you to schedule cleanings, track the vacuum’s performance, and control it remotely. However, there are key differences in their smart features.
- Roomba i4: The i4 is equipped with basic Smart Mapping, meaning it can remember the layout of your home and clean in a more efficient manner. It’s compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to start or stop cleanings with voice commands.
- Roomba i5: The i5 features advanced Smart Mapping, enabling the robot to map out your home with even more precision. It can create custom cleaning schedules and allows you to set no-go zones where you don’t want the vacuum to clean. This added customization makes the i5 a more flexible option for larger or more complex homes.
| Feature | Roomba i4 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Mapping | Yes | Yes (Advanced with No-Go Zones) |
| App Control | iRobot Home App | iRobot Home App |
| Voice Control | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant |
The Roomba i5 provides more advanced features, such as no-go zones and more detailed mapping, offering greater control over the cleaning process.
Battery Life and Charging
Run Time and Charging Efficiency
Battery life is an important consideration for any robot vacuum, especially if you have a larger home or multiple rooms to clean.
- Roomba i4: The i4 provides up to 90 minutes of battery life on a full charge, which is sufficient for smaller homes or apartments. When the battery gets low, the i4 will automatically return to its charging dock, recharge, and resume cleaning if necessary.
- Roomba i5: The i5 offers similar 90 minutes of battery life, with auto-recharge and resume functionality. However, the i5 is equipped with more efficient cleaning algorithms, which might give it a slight edge in terms of cleaning time during less complex tasks.
| Feature | Roomba i4 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | 90 Minutes | 90 Minutes |
| Charging and Resume | Auto Recharges and Resumes | Auto Recharges and Resumes |
Both vacuums provide 90 minutes of cleaning time, with automatic recharging and resuming for both models.
Automatic Dirt Disposal
Self-Emptying Dustbin
Both the Roomba i4 and Roomba i5 come with the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal, which means that the vacuum empties its dustbin into a larger bag at its charging station, minimizing the need for manual emptying.
- Roomba i4: The i4 includes the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal system, with a 3-liter bag that can hold several cleaning cycles worth of dirt before needing to be replaced.
- Roomba i5: The i5 also features the Clean Base and the same 3-liter bag. However, its suction power is slightly more efficient, meaning it picks up more dirt per cleaning cycle, potentially filling the bag quicker.
| Feature | Roomba i4 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Automatic Dirt Disposal | Yes | Yes |
| Bag Size | 3 liters | 3 liters (with Stronger Suction) |
Both models come with the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal, but the i5 may fill the bag faster due to its increased suction power.
Price and Value
| Feature | Roomba i4 | Roomba i5 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Mid-Range | Mid-Range, Slightly Higher |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Excellent, with Added Features |
The Roomba i4 offers great value at a slightly lower price, while the Roomba i5 provides more advanced features, particularly in smart mapping and carpet cleaning, justifying the slightly higher cost.
Who Should Choose Which?
| User Type | Recommended Model |
|---|---|
| Budget-Conscious | Roomba i4 |
| Homes with Carpets | Roomba i5 |
| Smart Home Users | Roomba i5 |
| Medium Homes | Roomba i4 |
| Larger Homes | Roomba i5 |
Final Verdict
Both the Roomba i4 and Roomba i5 are excellent robotic vacuums, but they cater to slightly different needs:
- Choose the Roomba i4 if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with reliable performance, automatic dirt disposal, and essential smart features. It’s ideal for smaller homes or apartments and users who don’t require advanced mapping or carpet-specific cleaning modes.
- Choose the Roomba i5 if you need a more premium robot vacuum with advanced features, such as Smart Mapping, no-go zones, and enhanced carpet cleaning. It’s the better option for larger homes, homes with carpets, or users who want more control over their cleaning routines.
In conclusion, the Roomba i5 offers better customization and performance on carpets, while the Roomba i4 provides a solid, budget-friendly option with excellent value for those who need reliable cleaning without all the extra features.