Robot vacuums have revolutionized home cleaning, offering convenience and automation to busy individuals and families. The Shark IQ and Roomba 981 represent popular choices in this competitive market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Both aim to provide a hands-free cleaning experience, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. Understanding their differences is key to making an informed decision.
The Shark IQ series focuses on delivering smart features and strong cleaning performance at a more accessible price point, often including self-emptying capabilities that reduce maintenance. It’s designed for users who want a hassle-free experience with good suction power and smart navigation. On the other hand, the Roomba 981, while an older model, offers a balance of performance, smart features, and a well-established brand reputation. It appeals to consumers who prioritize cleaning effectiveness, reliable navigation, and a user-friendly app experience, even if it means paying a bit more.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark IQ
- Short Review of Roomba 981
- Key Differences at a Glance
- Specifications Comparison
- Price Comparison
- Design and Build Quality
- Performance Face-Off
- Special Features Comparison
- Usability and User Experience
- Maintenance and Longevity
- Who Should Buy Shark IQ?
- Who Should Buy Roomba 981?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- Cleaning Performance: Roomba 981
- Smart Features: Shark IQ
- Value for Money: Shark IQ
- Pet Owners: Roomba 981
- Low-Pile Carpets: Roomba 981
- Bare Floors: Roomba 981
Choose Shark IQ if: You want a feature-rich robot vacuum with self-emptying capabilities at a more affordable price.
Choose Roomba 981 if: You prioritize superior cleaning performance, especially on carpets and for pet hair, and value a more refined user experience.
Short Review of Shark IQ
The Shark IQ robot vacuum series is known for its smart features, including home mapping, Wi-Fi connectivity, and voice control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. Many models boast a self-emptying base, allowing for weeks of hands-free operation. The Shark IQ is designed to navigate homes efficiently, cleaning in methodical rows for thorough coverage. The “self-cleaning” brushroll is engineered to prevent hair from wrapping around it, making it a good option for pet owners.
Shark IQ robot vacuums offer a compelling combination of convenience and value. They typically include features like the self-empty base, which holds dirt and debris for up to 45 days, reducing the frequency of emptying. The SharkClean app allows users to schedule cleanings, target specific rooms, and set up no-go zones. While some reviews note that it can be louder than other models and may struggle with larger debris, its overall cleaning performance and smart features make it a strong contender in its price range.
Short Review of Roomba 981
The Roomba 981 is a robot vacuum designed for efficient and effective cleaning across various floor types. It features iAdapt 2.0 Navigation with Visual Localization, allowing it to map and navigate an entire level of your home. The Roomba 981 is equipped with the AeroForce Cleaning System, which delivers up to 10x more power to loosen, lift, and suction dirt. Its patented tangle-free brushes are designed to handle pet hair with ease.
The Roomba 981 offers a blend of performance and smart features. It automatically adjusts to clean carpets, tile, hardwood, and laminate floors. The iRobot HOME App allows users to clean, schedule, view maps, and customize cleaning preferences from their smartphones. It runs for up to 120 minutes on a single charge and automatically recharges and resumes cleaning until the job is done. While it may not have all the latest features of newer models, its solid performance and reliability make it a worthwhile option for many homes.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Self-Emptying Base: Many Shark IQ models include a self-emptying base, while the Roomba 981 does not.
- Navigation Technology: Roomba 981 uses iAdapt 2.0 with Visual Localization; Shark IQ uses IQ Navigation.
- Brushroll Design: Shark IQ features a self-cleaning brushroll to prevent hair tangles.
- Price: Shark IQ is generally more affordable than the Roomba 981.
- Cleaning Power: Roomba 981 may have slightly better overall cleaning performance, particularly on carpets.
- App Features: Shark IQ app allows setting boundary markers; Roomba 981 focuses on ease of use and customization.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark IQ | Roomba 981 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Robot | Robot |
| Manufacturer | Shark | iRobot |
| Dimensions | 12.9″ L x 12.6″ W x 3.5″ H | 13.9″ diameter, 3.6″ height |
| Weight | 5.87 lbs | 8.7 lbs |
| Dust Bin Capacity | 0.17 quarts (robot), up to 45 days (self-empty base) | 0.3 liters (0.6 liters according to some sources) |
| Battery | Unknown | 3300 mAh |
| Cordless | Yes | Yes |
| Bagless | Yes | Yes |
| Filter Type | Non-washable (HEPA on some models) | HEPA-style |
| Navigation | IQ Navigation | iAdapt 2.0 with Visual Localization |
| Smart Home Compatibility | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Self-Emptying | Yes (on many models) | No |
| Brushroll | Self-cleaning | Tangle-free brushes |
| Recharge & Resume | Yes | Yes |
| Runtime | Varies | Up to 120 minutes |
Price Comparison
The Shark IQ robot vacuum typically ranges from $300 to $600, depending on the specific model and features, with self-emptying models costing more. The Roomba 981, while an older model, generally sells in the $400 to $700 range.
The Shark IQ offers a better cost-to-feature ratio, especially considering the inclusion of a self-emptying base in many models. If budget is a primary concern, the Shark IQ provides excellent value. However, the Roomba 981’s superior cleaning performance may justify the higher price for some users.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark IQ has a utilitarian design with an all-black finish. It’s compact and can navigate under furniture with its low profile. The self-emptying base is bagless, reducing recurring costs. The Roomba 981 has a bronze top cover and matte black sides, with a round body and a sleek design. It feels well-built and durable.
While both vacuums are well-constructed, the Roomba 981 has a slightly more premium feel. The Shark IQ’s self-emptying base is a significant advantage in terms of convenience.
Performance Face-Off
Bare Floors
The Roomba 981 generally delivers outstanding performance on bare floors, effectively picking up pet hair and both small and large debris. The Shark IQ performs well on bare floors, but some reviews note that it may struggle with bulky debris as the dirt compartment fills up.
Low-Pile Carpet
Roomba 981 demonstrates better performance on low-pile carpets, effectively removing pet hair and debris. Shark IQ can struggle with fine debris on low-pile carpet, leaving some behind.
High-Pile Carpet
Both vacuums can handle high-pile carpets, but the Roomba 981 generally provides better overall cleaning performance. The Shark IQ may struggle to climb onto shag-pile carpeting.
Pet Hair
The Roomba 981 is a great option for cleaning up pet hair, effectively clearing it from bare floors and carpets. The Shark IQ’s brushroll tends to push hair further into the carpet, though its self-cleaning design helps prevent tangles.
Special Features Comparison
- Shark IQ: Self-emptying base, self-cleaning brushroll, methodical row-by-row cleaning, and boundary strips.
- Roomba 981: iAdapt 2.0 Navigation with Visual Localization, AeroForce Cleaning System with Carpet Boost, and tangle-free brushes.
The Shark IQ’s self-emptying base is a standout feature, allowing for weeks of hands-free operation. The Roomba 981’s iAdapt 2.0 navigation and AeroForce Cleaning System provide efficient and powerful cleaning.
Usability and User Experience
The Shark IQ is easy to use with its SharkClean app, which allows for scheduling, room selection, and setting no-go zones. The Roomba 981’s iRobot HOME App is user-friendly and offers similar features, including cleaning customization and map viewing.
Both vacuums are suitable for novice and experienced users, but the Roomba 981’s app may offer a slightly more refined and intuitive experience.
Maintenance and Longevity
The Shark IQ requires periodic cleaning of its brushroll and emptying of the self-emptying base. Recurring costs are moderate. The Roomba 981 requires routine maintenance of several parts, and recurring costs can be high.
Both vacuums are well-built, but the Roomba 981 may have a slight edge in terms of long-term durability.
Who Should Buy Shark IQ?
The Shark IQ is a good choice for users who:
- Want a self-emptying robot vacuum at a more affordable price.
- Value smart features like home mapping and voice control.
- Need a vacuum that can effectively clean various floor types.
- Want a vacuum with a self-cleaning brushroll to prevent hair tangles.
Who Should Buy Roomba 981?
The Roomba 981 is a good choice for users who:
- Prioritize superior cleaning performance, especially on carpets and for pet hair.
- Value reliable navigation and a user-friendly app experience.
- Are willing to pay more for a well-established brand and proven performance.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark IQ and Roomba 981 are capable robot vacuums that offer convenience and automation. The Shark IQ provides excellent value with its smart features and self-emptying capabilities, making it a great choice for budget-conscious consumers. However, the Roomba 981’s superior cleaning performance, particularly on carpets and for pet hair, may justify the higher price for those who prioritize cleaning effectiveness.
