When choosing a high-end robotic vacuum, both the Roomba i7+ and Roomba J7+ offer exceptional features and performance, but they are designed to cater to slightly different user needs. Both models come equipped with the convenience of iRobot’s Clean Base™ for automatic dirt disposal, but they differ in their navigation systems, cleaning capabilities, and smart features. In this comparison, we’ll break down the key aspects of both vacuums to help you determine which one is best suited for your home.
Key Specifications: Roomba i7+ vs J7+
| Feature | Roomba i7+ | Roomba J7+ |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.3 x 3.6 inches | 13.3 x 3.4 inches |
| Weight | 8.7 lbs | 8.4 lbs |
| Suction Power | 10x the suction of 600 Series | 10x the suction of 600 Series |
| Brush System | Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes | Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes |
| Navigation System | iAdapt® 3.0 with vSLAM® | iAdapt® 3.0 with PrecisionVision™ |
| Battery Life | ~75 minutes | ~75 minutes |
| Recharge and Resume | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| Clean Base™ | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Premium | Premium |
Design and Build Quality
Roomba i7+: Versatile and Robust
The Roomba i7+ has a slightly larger build compared to the J7+, weighing in at 8.7 lbs and measuring 13.3 x 3.6 inches. This model retains a sleek round design with a premium black-and-chrome finish. It’s built with durability in mind and can easily navigate around furniture and other obstacles. The i7+ has a more robust feel, ideal for users who prioritize a strong, reliable vacuum that can handle larger spaces.
Roomba J7+: Compact with Smart Features
The Roomba J7+ is marginally lighter at 8.4 lbs and features a similar round design, though it has a more compact profile at 13.3 x 3.4 inches. The black-and-gold finish gives it a more modern, high-end look compared to the i7+. Both models feature the Clean Base™ for automatic dirt disposal, but the J7+ stands out due to its PrecisionVision™ technology, which is designed to avoid pet waste and smaller objects more effectively.
| Design Feature | Roomba i7+ | Roomba J7+ |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Round, compact | Round, compact |
| Weight | 8.7 lbs | 8.4 lbs |
| Finish | Black/Chrome | Black/Gold |
| Clean Base™ | Yes | Yes |
Cleaning Performance
Suction Power and Brush System
Both the Roomba i7+ and Roomba J7+ offer 10x the suction power of the 600 Series, making them powerful options for homes with a mix of carpets and hard floors. They both feature dual multi-surface rubber brushes, designed to capture dirt, debris, and pet hair while reducing tangles. These models are highly effective at cleaning both hardwood floors and carpets.
PrecisionVision™ vs vSLAM® Navigation
While both vacuums are equipped with advanced navigation systems, the Roomba i7+ uses vSLAM® (Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology, which helps the vacuum map your home and create efficient cleaning paths. This navigation system enables the i7+ to recognize the layout of your home and clean it methodically.
The Roomba J7+, on the other hand, uses PrecisionVision™ navigation, which builds upon vSLAM® but includes a more advanced obstacle detection system. The J7+ is specifically designed to detect and avoid obstacles such as pet waste, cords, and small objects. This makes it an excellent choice for homes with pets or heavy clutter, as it can avoid accidents and navigate more freely.
| Cleaning Aspect | Roomba i7+ | Roomba J7+ |
|---|---|---|
| Suction Power | 10x the suction of 600 Series | 10x the suction of 600 Series |
| Brush System | Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes | Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes |
| Navigation System | vSLAM® with mapping | PrecisionVision™ with obstacle avoidance |
| Pet Hair Pickup | Excellent | Excellent |
| Obstacle Detection | Standard | Advanced (PrecisionVision™) |
Smart Features and Connectivity
Wi-Fi Control and Smart Home Integration
Both the Roomba i7+ and J7+ offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control them remotely via the iRobot Home app. You can schedule cleanings, track the vacuum’s progress, and customize your cleaning preferences directly from your smartphone. Additionally, both models are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control to start, stop, or schedule cleanings with a simple voice command.
Clean Base™ for Hands-Free Cleaning
One of the standout features of both models is the inclusion of Clean Base™ for automatic dirt disposal. After each cleaning cycle, the Roomba will return to the Clean Base™, empty its dustbin, and resume cleaning where it left off. This feature is especially convenient for users who want a more hands-off cleaning experience. The i7+ and J7+ both excel in this category, making them ideal choices for homes that require minimal intervention.
| Smart Feature | Roomba i7+ | Roomba J7+ |
|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes | Yes |
| App Control | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Alexa/Google Assistant | Alexa/Google Assistant |
| Clean Base™ | Yes | Yes |
Battery Life and Runtime
Both the Roomba i7+ and Roomba J7+ provide an average runtime of ~75 minutes, which is suitable for cleaning most homes. When the battery runs low, the vacuum will return to its charging station to recharge and automatically resume cleaning once the battery is full.
| Battery Feature | Roomba i7+ | Roomba J7+ |
|---|---|---|
| Runtime | ~75 minutes | ~75 minutes |
| Recharge and Resume | Yes | Yes |
Price and Value
Both the Roomba i7+ and Roomba J7+ are premium robotic vacuums with similar price ranges. The i7+ is an excellent all-around performer with strong mapping capabilities, while the J7+ adds a layer of advanced obstacle detection with its PrecisionVision™ system. If your home is prone to clutter, pet waste, or small objects, the Roomba J7+‘s enhanced obstacle avoidance might justify the slightly higher price. However, if you prefer a highly reliable vacuum that excels at cleaning and mapping larger spaces, the Roomba i7+ is a solid choice.
| Feature | Roomba i7+ | Roomba J7+ |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Premium | Premium |
| Value for Money | Excellent | Excellent (for obstacle detection) |
Final Verdict: Roomba i7+ vs J7+
- Choose the Roomba i7+ if you need a reliable, powerful robot vacuum with robust mapping capabilities and great performance on both carpets and hard floors. It’s ideal for users who don’t need the added complexity of advanced obstacle avoidance.
- Choose the Roomba J7+ if your home is prone to clutter, pet waste, or small obstacles that other vacuums might struggle with. The PrecisionVision™ system offers superior obstacle detection and makes the J7+ a great option for homes with pets or heavy foot traffic.
Both models offer top-tier performance, smart features, and convenience, but the Roomba J7+ takes the edge if you need more precise navigation and obstacle avoidance, while the Roomba i7+ excels in mapping and efficient cleaning for a variety of home layouts.