iRobot Roomba i3+

Robot vacuum features, such as the self-emptying dust bin are only seen on expensive and fully automated robot vacuums. But, the iRobot released the Roomba i3+, which is the most affordable among its products and can empty its dustbin. However, because of its low price, some features are not included, such as a smart mapping function, which even mid-range robot vacuums have.

Its price is considered affordable if you compare it to other Roomba products with a self-emptying dust bin. But if you compare it to different robot vacuum brands, you will see that you can buy a robot vacuum with an advanced mapping capability and at the same price as the Roomba i3+.

The Roomba i3+ uses a floor tracking sensor to navigate, unlike the Roomba i7+ that uses a camera. The Roomba i3+ can still clean the entire floor thoroughly and make a systematic cleaning pattern like the Roomba i7+ even without a camera. The only drawback of not having a more advanced navigation system is that it doesn’t support features, such as selective room cleaning, virtual boundaries, etc. So, if your priority is a robot vacuum that can empty its own dust bin over a smart mapping capability, the Roomba i3+ is for you.

Since the Roomba i3+ doesn’t have a smart navigation system, you might have to rescue it frequently because it might get stuck more often than other robot vacuums with a SLAM or LiDAR navigation system.

The self-emptying dust bin or the Clean Base, as what the iRobot calls it, can store 60 days worth of dirt but this depends on how often you vacuum and how dirty your home is. It limits your exposure to dirt, unlike other robot vacuums where you need to clean the dust bin almost after every use. However, it produces a loud noise for about 30 seconds when emptying its dust bin which is the same as any robot vacuum with a self-emptying dust bin.

The Roomba i3+ has 10x more power-lifting suction compared to the 600 series of iRobot, which is the same as the Roomba i7+. It has a good pick-up ability and it can easily vacuum pet hairs, fine debris, and large clutter.

It also boasts its Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes that are patented by Roomba. It is resistant to hair tangles which makes it easier to maintain. The structure of the brush also allows the robot vacuum to provide deeper cleaning even on carpets. On top of that, it also has a Dirt Detect technology that can recognize areas with a concentration of dirt and offers more attention to that area.

If you have areas you want to block off, such as pet areas where the water bowls are placed or areas where there are a lot of cables, you can get a virtual barrier accessory that is sold separately.

Overall, the Roomba i3+ is impressive in terms of its vacuuming ability and its hair-resistant main brush. The self-emptying dust bin is also a great help, but it may result in a higher recurring cost because you need to buy disposable dirt bags regularly.