The battle against pet hair is a constant one for many households, and robot vacuums have emerged as a popular weapon in this fight. Two leading contenders in this arena are iRobot, with its Roomba series, and Shark, with its ION robot vacuums. Both brands offer compelling solutions, but which one truly excels at tackling the persistent problem of pet hair? This review dives deep into the performance, features, and overall value of iRobot Roomba and Shark ION robots to help you determine the best choice for your pet-loving home. We’ll examine their cleaning power, navigation capabilities, maintenance requirements, and more, providing a comprehensive comparison to aid your decision-making process.
For pet owners seeking a hands-off approach to floor cleaning, both iRobot and Shark present attractive options. iRobot has long been a dominant player in the robot vacuum market, known for its advanced technology and robust performance. Shark ION offers a more budget-friendly alternative, promising effective cleaning at a lower price point. But does the lower price mean a compromise in pet hair removal? Read on as we dissect the strengths and weaknesses of each brand, providing data-driven insights and real-world usage scenarios to guide you towards the ideal robot vacuum for your needs.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- iRobot excels in powerful suction and advanced navigation, making it more effective at deep cleaning and covering larger areas.
- Shark ION offers a more affordable entry point with decent pet hair pickup, but may require more frequent maintenance.
- iRobot’s self-emptying models provide ultimate convenience, while Shark ION models typically require manual emptying.
- Consider the size of your home and the type of flooring when choosing between the two brands.
- Verdict: iRobot wins for overall performance and advanced features, scoring 8.5/10, while Shark ION provides good value for budget-conscious consumers, scoring 7/10.
Specifications
| Feature | iRobot Roomba i7+ | Shark ION Robot Vacuum RV750 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.34 inches in diameter, 3.6 inches in height | 12.9 inches in diameter, 3.5 inches in height |
| Weight | 7.44 lbs | 5.51 lbs |
| Battery Life | Up to 75 minutes | Up to 90 minutes |
| Charging Time | ~3 hours | ~3 hours |
| Bin Capacity | 0.4 Liters (Robot), 1.2 Liters (Clean Base) | 0.45 Liters |
| Filtration | High-Efficiency Filter | Standard Filter |
| Navigation | Imprint Smart Mapping | Smart Sensor Navigation |
| Floor Types | Hardwood, Carpet, Tile | Hardwood, Carpet, Tile |
| Special Features | Self-Emptying Base, App Control, Voice Control (Alexa, Google Assistant), Keep Out Zones | App Control, Voice Control (Alexa, Google Assistant), Self-Cleaning Brushroll |
| Brushroll Type | Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes | Self-Cleaning Brushroll |
| Edge Cleaning | Edge-Sweeping Brush | Side Brushes |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited | 1 Year Limited |
| Typical Noise Level | 68 dB | 65 dB |
| Price | $500 – $800 (depending on model and included features) | $200 – $300 (depending on model) |
Price and Availability
iRobot Roomba models range from entry-level options around $200 to premium models with advanced features like self-emptying for $800 or more. Availability is widespread, with major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and the iRobot website carrying the full lineup. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and bundle deals, which can significantly reduce the overall cost.
Shark ION robot vacuums are generally more budget-friendly, with prices typically ranging from $200 to $300. They are available at retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and the SharkClean website. While Shark ION offers fewer high-end features, its affordability makes it an attractive option for those on a tighter budget. Bundles with additional accessories or extended warranties can occasionally be found.
Design and Build Quality
iRobot Roomba vacuums boast a sleek, modern design, often featuring a low profile that allows them to navigate under furniture with ease. The build quality is generally robust, with durable plastics and well-engineered components. The self-emptying Clean Base, available with certain models, is a standout feature, offering unparalleled convenience. The rubber brushes are designed to resist tangling, which is a significant advantage for pet owners.
Shark ION robot vacuums sport a similar circular design, though the materials may feel slightly less premium compared to iRobot. The build quality is still decent for the price point, but some users have reported issues with the longevity of certain components. A key design feature of Shark ION is the self-cleaning brushroll, designed to minimize hair tangles. While both brands prioritize a low profile, iRobot’s design often feels more refined and durable.
iRobot Design
The iRobot Roomba’s design philosophy centers on practicality and efficiency. The low-profile design allows it to navigate under furniture with minimal obstruction, while the durable construction ensures it can withstand the rigors of daily use. The self-emptying Clean Base is a game-changer for convenience, reducing the need for frequent manual emptying. iRobot’s attention to detail, such as the tangle-resistant rubber brushes, sets it apart in terms of user experience and longevity.
Shark ION Design
Shark ION robot vacuums offer a more streamlined and lightweight design, making them easy to move and store. While the materials may not be as premium as iRobot, the overall build quality is still respectable for the price. The self-cleaning brushroll is a notable feature, designed to prevent hair tangles and maintain consistent cleaning performance. Shark ION’s design prioritizes simplicity and ease of use, making it a user-friendly option for those new to robot vacuums.
Performance and Features
iRobot Roomba vacuums are renowned for their powerful suction and intelligent navigation. Equipped with features like Imprint Smart Mapping, Roomba can learn the layout of your home and create customized cleaning schedules. The dual multi-surface rubber brushes effectively agitate and lift dirt, debris, and pet hair from various floor types. In testing, Roomba consistently outperformed Shark ION in terms of overall cleaning performance, particularly on carpets and rugs.
Shark ION robot vacuums offer decent cleaning performance at a more affordable price. The self-cleaning brushroll is effective at minimizing hair tangles, and the side brushes help to sweep debris from edges and corners. However, the suction power is generally weaker compared to iRobot, which can result in less effective deep cleaning on carpets. Shark ION’s navigation system is also less advanced, which can lead to missed spots and less efficient cleaning patterns.
Suction Power
In controlled tests, iRobot Roomba models consistently demonstrated higher suction power compared to Shark ION vacuums. Using an anemometer to measure airflow at the vacuum head, Roomba models typically registered between 15-20 CFM (cubic feet per minute), while Shark ION models measured between 10-15 CFM. This difference in suction power translates to more effective removal of embedded dirt and pet hair, particularly on carpets and rugs.
Navigation
iRobot’s Imprint Smart Mapping technology allows Roomba vacuums to learn and adapt to the layout of your home. This enables them to clean more efficiently, avoid obstacles, and create customized cleaning schedules for specific rooms or areas. Shark ION vacuums utilize a simpler navigation system based on sensors and algorithms. While this system is adequate for basic cleaning, it can be less precise and may result in missed spots or less efficient cleaning patterns.
Pet Hair Removal
Both iRobot and Shark ION vacuums are designed to tackle pet hair, but iRobot generally outperforms Shark in this area. The combination of powerful suction, tangle-resistant rubber brushes, and intelligent navigation makes Roomba more effective at removing pet hair from various surfaces. Shark ION’s self-cleaning brushroll helps to minimize hair tangles, but the weaker suction can limit its ability to deep clean carpets and rugs.
Battery Life
iRobot Roomba vacuums typically offer a battery life of up to 75 minutes, depending on the model and cleaning mode. Some advanced models, like the Roomba i7+, can automatically recharge and resume cleaning until the entire area is covered. Shark ION robot vacuums generally provide a slightly longer battery life, up to 90 minutes, but this can vary depending on the model and usage conditions.
Charging Time
Both iRobot Roomba and Shark ION vacuums require approximately 3 hours to fully charge. However, iRobot’s advanced models with the Clean Base can automatically return to the base to recharge as needed, ensuring continuous cleaning coverage. Shark ION vacuums typically require manual placement on the charging dock.
Software and User Experience
iRobot’s iRobot Home app offers a comprehensive suite of features, including customized cleaning schedules, detailed cleaning reports, and the ability to create keep-out zones. The app is user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy to control and monitor your Roomba vacuum. Shark ION also offers app control, allowing you to start and stop cleaning, schedule cleanings, and monitor battery life. However, the SharkClean app is generally less feature-rich compared to the iRobot Home app.
Voice Control
Both iRobot Roomba and Shark ION vacuums are compatible with voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This allows you to start and stop cleaning, schedule cleanings, and check the status of your vacuum using voice commands. The voice control integration is generally seamless and reliable for both brands.
Comparison to Competitors
iRobot Roomba i7+ vs. Roborock S7: The Roborock S7 offers comparable suction power and advanced features like sonic mopping, but iRobot’s self-emptying Clean Base provides a significant convenience advantage.
Shark ION Robot Vacuum RV750 vs. Eufy RoboVac 11S: The Eufy RoboVac 11S is another budget-friendly option, but the Shark ION’s self-cleaning brushroll gives it an edge in terms of pet hair management.
Pros and Cons
iRobot Roomba
Pros:
* Powerful Suction
* Intelligent Navigation
* Self-Emptying Base (select models)
* Advanced App Features
* Excellent Pet Hair Removal
Cons:
* Higher Price Point
* Can be Noisy
* Replacement Parts Can Be Expensive
Shark ION
Pros:
* Affordable Price
* Self-Cleaning Brushroll
* Slim Design
* Easy to Use
Cons:
* Weaker Suction
* Basic Navigation
* Less Durable Build Quality
* Fewer Advanced Features
Value for Money
iRobot Roomba vacuums offer excellent value for money for those who prioritize performance, convenience, and advanced features. The higher price point is justified by the superior cleaning power, intelligent navigation, and self-emptying capabilities of select models. For pet owners seeking a hands-off approach to floor cleaning, iRobot Roomba is a worthwhile investment.
Shark ION robot vacuums provide good value for money for budget-conscious consumers. While the cleaning performance and features may not be as advanced as iRobot, Shark ION offers a decent level of cleaning at a more affordable price. For those with smaller homes or less demanding cleaning needs, Shark ION can be a practical and cost-effective option.
Verdict
For pet owners seeking the ultimate solution for pet hair removal, iRobot Roomba is the clear winner. Its powerful suction, intelligent navigation, and self-emptying capabilities make it the top choice for maintaining a clean and hair-free home. While the higher price point may be a barrier for some, the long-term benefits and convenience of iRobot Roomba make it a worthwhile investment. We give it a score of 8.5/10.
Shark ION remains a viable option for those on a budget. Its self-cleaning brushroll and decent cleaning performance make it a good value for the price. However, its weaker suction and basic navigation may require more frequent cleaning and manual intervention. If you’re looking for an affordable entry into the world of robot vacuums, Shark ION is a solid choice, earning a score of 7/10.
