When it comes to robotic vacuums, the iRobot Roomba series has become synonymous with innovative technology, smart navigation, and powerful cleaning performance. Two popular models, the Roomba i8 and i7, both promise to make home cleaning more efficient and less time-consuming. But with so many similarities, how do you decide which one is right for you? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the Roomba i8 and i7 based on key features, performance, and value, so you can make an informed decision.
Key Specifications: Roomba i8 vs i7
Before diving into the details, let’s take a quick look at the specifications of both models. This side-by-side comparison will help highlight the core differences between the two:
| Feature | Roomba i8 | Roomba i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.3 x 3.7 inches | 13.3 x 3.7 inches |
| Weight | 7.4 lbs | 7.4 lbs |
| Battery Life | Up to 90 minutes | Up to 75 minutes |
| Suction Power | High | High |
| Brush System | Dual multi-surface brushes | Dual multi-surface brushes |
| Navigation | iAdapt 3.0 with Visual Localization | iAdapt 3.0 with Visual Localization |
| Mapping | Yes, smart mapping | Yes, smart mapping |
| Dustbin Capacity | 600 ml | 600 ml |
| App Control | iRobot Home app | iRobot Home app |
| Voice Control | Alexa/Google Assistant | Alexa/Google Assistant |
| Automatic Dirt Disposal | No | Yes (Compatible with Clean Base) |
| Filter Type | High-Efficiency Filter | High-Efficiency + Anti-Allergen Filter |
| Price Range | Affordable Premium | Premium |
Cleaning Performance: i8 vs i7
Both the Roomba i8 and i7 share many cleaning features, but their overall performance differs slightly in terms of suction power, dirt pickup, and coverage.
Suction Power and Performance
The Roomba i8 and i7 both use iRobot’s AeroForce® 3-Stage Cleaning System, which incorporates dual multi-surface brushes and powerful suction. The difference lies in their ability to handle different cleaning environments. While both models excel at cleaning hard floors and low to medium-pile carpets, the Roomba i7 provides a slightly higher level of suction, making it more effective at deep cleaning carpets and larger homes.
The Roomba i8 is an excellent option for smaller homes with fewer carpets or mixed surfaces, delivering consistent results with its strong suction. However, for homes with heavier carpet traffic or larger areas to cover, the i7’s superior suction and cleaning capabilities make it the better choice.
Performance on Carpets and Hard Floors
| Surface Type | Roomba i8 Performance | Roomba i7 Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Hardwood Floors | Excellent | Excellent |
| Low-Pile Carpets | Excellent | Excellent |
| Medium-Pile Carpets | Excellent | Excellent |
| High-Pile Carpets | Good | Excellent (Deep Clean) |
While both vacuums are efficient on hardwood floors and low-pile carpets, the Roomba i7 stands out for its deep-cleaning abilities on high-pile carpets and its ability to pick up pet hair with ease.
Smart Navigation and Mapping
One of the standout features of both the Roomba i8 and i7 is their advanced navigation systems. Both models use iAdapt® 3.0 with Visual Localization, which helps the vacuums map your home, identify obstacles, and clean in an efficient pattern. This allows for systematic coverage and reduced cleaning time.
Key Differences in Navigation
While both vacuums are capable of mapping rooms and setting No-Go Zones, the Roomba i7 offers an edge in cleaning larger, more complex areas. It also has an additional feature for corner cleaning, making it more effective at tackling dirt along walls and baseboards. The i8, on the other hand, is great at navigating tight spaces and around obstacles, making it ideal for homes with more furniture or clutter.
| Feature | Roomba i8 | Roomba i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Navigation System | iAdapt 3.0 with Visual Localization | iAdapt 3.0 with Visual Localization + Corner Cleaning |
| Mapping | Yes | Yes |
| No-Go Zones | Yes | Yes |
Battery Life and Charging
Both the Roomba i8 and i7 provide impressive battery life, but with some variation. The Roomba i8 offers up to 90 minutes of runtime, while the Roomba i7 provides slightly less at 75 minutes. However, the i7 makes up for this with its compatibility with the Clean Base, an automatic dirt disposal system that reduces maintenance and ensures you don’t need to empty the bin after every cleaning session.
Despite the differences in runtime, both models feature the “Recharge and Resume” function, allowing them to return to their charging dock, recharge, and resume cleaning where they left off.
| Feature | Roomba i8 | Roomba i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery Life | Up to 90 minutes | Up to 75 minutes |
| Recharge and Resume | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Dirt Disposal | No | Yes (Compatible with Clean Base) |
Filtration System: i8 vs i7
For homes with pets or allergy sufferers, filtration is a crucial consideration. The Roomba i7 comes equipped with a high-efficiency filter and an additional anti-allergen filter, which captures small particles, pet dander, and allergens. This feature makes the i7 an ideal choice for families with pets or individuals with respiratory sensitivities.
While the Roomba i8 also features a high-efficiency filter, it lacks the anti-allergen capabilities of the i7. As such, while both models offer great filtration for regular use, the i7 is the superior option for those looking to minimize allergens in the home.
| Feature | Roomba i8 | Roomba i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Filter Type | High-Efficiency Filter | High-Efficiency + Anti-Allergen Filter |
Price and Value: i8 vs i7
Both the Roomba i8 and i7 fall into the premium price range, but the i7 comes with a higher price tag due to its additional features, such as automatic dirt disposal, enhanced suction, and better filtration.
While the Roomba i8 is slightly more affordable, it still offers excellent cleaning performance for homes with less demanding needs. If you’re looking for a vacuum that can handle deep carpet cleaning, pet hair, and allergens, the i7 offers exceptional value.
| Feature | Roomba i8 | Roomba i7 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | Affordable Premium | Premium |
| Value for Money | Excellent for small homes | Excellent for large homes |
Which One Should You Choose?
If you’re considering which Roomba model to purchase, here’s a quick guide to help you make your decision:
- Choose the Roomba i8 if:
- You have a smaller home or apartment.
- Your home has a mix of hard floors and low to medium-pile carpets.
- You want a vacuum with smart navigation and obstacle avoidance features but don’t need deep carpet cleaning.
- Choose the Roomba i7 if:
- You have a larger home or more carpeted areas.
- You need superior suction power for deep cleaning and tackling pet hair.
- You suffer from allergies or have pets and need enhanced filtration.
- You want the convenience of automatic dirt disposal.
Final Verdict
Both the Roomba i8 and i7 are stellar robotic vacuums that offer great value and performance, but they cater to slightly different needs. The Roomba i8 is an excellent choice for those with smaller homes or simpler cleaning requirements, while the Roomba i7 is the better option for those with larger homes, heavier cleaning demands, and specific concerns like allergens or pet hair.
Whether you choose the i8 or the i7, both vacuums will deliver powerful cleaning and smart features that make maintaining your home easier and more efficient.