Robot vacuums have revolutionized home cleaning, offering convenience and automation that fits seamlessly into busy lifestyles. The Roborock S7 and Shark IQ series represent two popular choices in this competitive market, each with its own strengths and target audience. The Roborock S7 is known for its advanced mopping capabilities and smart navigation, appealing to users who want a comprehensive cleaning solution for both hard floors and carpets. On the other hand, the Shark IQ series focuses on powerful suction and self-emptying convenience, making it attractive to those prioritizing efficient dirt and debris removal, especially in homes with pets.
Choosing between the Roborock S7 and the Shark IQ involves carefully weighing their respective features and performance metrics. Potential buyers need to consider factors such as floor types, the presence of pets, budget constraints, and the desired level of automation. This comparison will delve into the design, performance, special features, and overall value proposition of each series, providing a detailed analysis to help consumers make an informed decision. Whether you’re seeking a versatile cleaning companion or a reliable dirt-busting machine, understanding the nuances of the Roborock S7 and Shark IQ is crucial for selecting the right robot vacuum to meet your specific needs.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Roborock S7
- Short Review of Shark IQ
- 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 Roborock S7?
- Who Should Buy Shark IQ?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- Roborock S7: Best for homes with a mix of hard floors and carpets, those who value advanced mopping capabilities, and users who appreciate smart navigation and customization options.
- Shark IQ: Ideal for homes with predominantly carpeted floors, pet owners needing strong suction for hair removal, and individuals seeking a self-emptying robot vacuum at a competitive price point.
Short Review of Roborock S7
The Roborock S7 is a high-performance robot vacuum that excels in both vacuuming and mopping, making it a versatile cleaning solution for modern homes. Its standout feature is the VibraRise mopping system, which uses sonic vibration technology to effectively scrub hard floors, removing even stubborn stains and dirt. Additionally, the S7’s intelligent mop lifting function allows it to seamlessly transition from hard floors to carpets without wetting the latter, ensuring a comprehensive clean throughout your home. The S7 also boasts precise LiDAR navigation, creating accurate maps of your home for efficient cleaning routes and customizable cleaning zones.
Beyond its mopping prowess, the Roborock S7 delivers powerful suction and effective dirt removal on various floor types. Its advanced sensors and smart algorithms enable it to adapt to different surfaces, increasing suction on carpets for deep cleaning and optimizing performance on hard floors. The S7 is also compatible with Roborock’s auto-empty dock, providing a truly hands-free cleaning experience by automatically emptying the dustbin after each cleaning session. With its combination of advanced features, strong performance, and user-friendly app, the Roborock S7 is a top contender for those seeking a premium robot vacuum that can handle all their cleaning needs.
Short Review of Shark IQ
The Shark IQ robot vacuum series is designed to deliver powerful cleaning performance with a focus on convenience and ease of use. A key feature of the Shark IQ is its self-emptying base, which can hold weeks’ worth of dirt and debris, reducing the frequency of manual emptying. The Shark IQ also utilizes a self-cleaning brushroll that actively prevents hair from wrapping around it, making it an excellent choice for pet owners. Its intelligent navigation system allows it to efficiently map and clean your home, following a structured path to ensure thorough coverage.
In addition to its convenient features, the Shark IQ offers strong suction and effective dirt removal on various floor types. Its high-efficiency filter traps dust and allergens, making it a good option for allergy sufferers. The SharkClean app provides intuitive control over the robot, allowing you to schedule cleanings, customize cleaning zones, and monitor the robot’s progress. The Shark IQ series provides a compelling blend of performance, convenience, and value, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and low-maintenance robot vacuum.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Mopping Capability: Roborock S7 offers advanced sonic vibration mopping with automatic mop lifting, while the Shark IQ lacks mopping functionality.
- Navigation Technology: Roborock S7 utilizes LiDAR navigation for precise mapping and efficient cleaning routes, whereas the Shark IQ employs a more basic navigation system.
- Self-Emptying: Both the Roborock S7 and Shark IQ offer self-emptying options, but the Roborock’s dock is sold separately while some Shark IQ models include it.
- Brushroll Design: The Shark IQ features a self-cleaning brushroll designed to prevent hair tangles, while the Roborock S7 uses a rubber brushroll that is also effective at minimizing hair buildup.
- Carpet Detection: The Roborock S7 has intelligent carpet detection that lifts the mop head to avoid wetting carpets, a feature not found in the Shark IQ.
- Dustbin Capacity: The Shark IQ typically has a larger dustbin capacity in its self-emptying base compared to the Roborock S7’s internal dustbin.
- Price: The Shark IQ series is generally more affordable than the Roborock S7, especially when considering models with self-emptying bases.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Roborock S7 | Shark IQ |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.78 x 13.7 x 3.8 inches | 12.9 x 12.9 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 9.5 pounds | 7.63 pounds |
| Battery Life | Up to 180 minutes | Up to 90 minutes |
| Dustbin Capacity | 470 ml (internal) | Varies by model (larger in self-empty base) |
| Mopping | Sonic vibration mopping with auto-lift | No mopping |
| Navigation | LiDAR | Intelligent Mapping |
| Self-Emptying | Optional auto-empty dock (sold separately) | Available on some models (included or separate) |
| Carpet Boost | Yes | Yes |
| App Control | Yes, with advanced customization options | Yes, with scheduling and zone cleaning |
| Voice Control | Yes, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri | Yes, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Brushroll Material | Rubber | Self-cleaning brushroll |
| Filter Type | Washable | High-Efficiency Filter |
Price Comparison
The Roborock S7 typically retails for a higher price than the Shark IQ series. The S7’s advanced features, such as sonic vibration mopping and LiDAR navigation, contribute to its premium price point. Additionally, the auto-empty dock for the Roborock S7 is sold separately, adding to the overall cost.
The Shark IQ series, on the other hand, offers a more budget-friendly option, with some models including a self-emptying base at a competitive price. While the Shark IQ lacks the advanced mopping capabilities of the S7, its strong suction and self-emptying convenience make it a compelling value proposition for those prioritizing efficient cleaning and low maintenance.
When evaluating the cost-to-feature ratio, consider your specific cleaning needs and budget. If you require advanced mopping and precise navigation, the Roborock S7 may be worth the investment. However, if you primarily need a powerful vacuum with self-emptying convenience at a lower price, the Shark IQ is an excellent choice.
Design and Build Quality
The Roborock S7 features a sleek and modern design with a durable plastic construction. Its low profile allows it to easily navigate under furniture, and its rubber brushroll is gentle on floors while effectively picking up dirt and debris. The S7’s water tank and mop pad are easy to attach and detach, and its overall build quality feels robust and reliable.
The Shark IQ series also boasts a sturdy construction with a focus on functionality. Its self-cleaning brushroll is designed to prevent hair tangles, and its high-efficiency filter is easily accessible for cleaning or replacement. The Shark IQ’s self-emptying base is made of durable plastic and has a large capacity to hold weeks’ worth of dirt and debris. While the Shark IQ’s design may not be as sleek as the Roborock S7, it prioritizes practicality and ease of use.
Performance Face-Off
Vacuuming Performance
Both the Roborock S7 and Shark IQ offer strong vacuuming performance on various floor types. The Roborock S7’s powerful suction and carpet boost feature effectively remove dirt and debris from carpets, while its rubber brushroll is gentle on hard floors. The Shark IQ’s strong suction and self-cleaning brushroll also deliver excellent cleaning results on carpets and hard floors, with the added benefit of preventing hair tangles.
According to RTINGS.com, the Roborock S7 is better than the Shark IQ Robot. The Roborock feels better built, has less demanding maintenance requirements, incurs fewer recurring costs, has a longer maximum battery life, and does a better job of maneuvering itself. It also performs better on bare floors and has a mopping attachment for dealing with sticky messes. Conversely, the Shark clears more debris on carpets and has a bigger dustbin.
Mopping Performance
The Roborock S7’s sonic vibration mopping system sets it apart from the Shark IQ, which lacks mopping functionality. The S7’s VibraRise technology effectively scrubs hard floors, removing even stubborn stains and dirt. Its intelligent mop lifting function allows it to seamlessly transition from hard floors to carpets without wetting the latter, making it a true hybrid cleaning solution.
Navigation and Mapping
The Roborock S7 utilizes LiDAR navigation, which creates precise maps of your home for efficient cleaning routes and customizable cleaning zones. LiDAR technology allows the S7 to navigate complex environments with ease, avoiding obstacles and ensuring thorough coverage. The Shark IQ employs a more basic navigation system, which may not be as precise as LiDAR but still provides effective cleaning coverage.
Pet Hair Cleaning
Both the Roborock S7 and Shark IQ are capable of handling pet hair, but their brushroll designs may impact their performance. The Shark IQ’s self-cleaning brushroll is specifically designed to prevent hair tangles, making it an excellent choice for pet owners. The Roborock S7’s rubber brushroll is also effective at minimizing hair buildup, but it may require more frequent cleaning in homes with heavy shedding.
Special Features Comparison
- Roborock S7:
- Sonic Vibration Mopping: Effectively scrubs hard floors for superior cleaning.
- VibraRise Technology: Automatically lifts the mop head on carpets to avoid wetting.
- LiDAR Navigation: Creates precise maps for efficient cleaning routes and customized zones.
- Carpet Boost: Automatically increases suction on carpets for deep cleaning.
- Shark IQ:
- Self-Emptying Base: Holds weeks’ worth of dirt and debris for low maintenance.
- Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Prevents hair tangles for hassle-free cleaning.
- Intelligent Mapping: Efficiently maps and cleans your home.
- High-Efficiency Filter: Traps dust and allergens for cleaner air.
Usability and User Experience
Both the Roborock S7 and Shark IQ are designed for ease of use, with intuitive app controls and straightforward maintenance. The Roborock S7’s advanced features, such as sonic vibration mopping and LiDAR navigation, may require a bit more initial setup and customization, but its user-friendly app makes it easy to manage cleaning schedules and zones.
The Shark IQ’s self-emptying base and self-cleaning brushroll contribute to its low-maintenance design, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free cleaning experience. Its app is also easy to use, with simple controls for scheduling cleanings and customizing cleaning zones.
Maintenance and Longevity
The Roborock S7 requires regular maintenance, including emptying the dustbin, cleaning the brushroll, and replacing the mop pad. Its washable filter helps to extend its lifespan, but it will eventually need to be replaced. Roborock offers a one-year warranty on the S7.
The Shark IQ also requires regular maintenance, including emptying the self-emptying base, cleaning the brushroll, and replacing the filter. Its self-cleaning brushroll helps to reduce hair tangles, but it will still need to be cleaned periodically. Shark offers a one-year warranty on the IQ series.
Who Should Buy Roborock S7?
The Roborock S7 is the ideal choice for:
- Homes with a mix of hard floors and carpets.
- Users who want advanced mopping capabilities.
- Those who appreciate smart navigation and customization options.
- Individuals willing to invest in a premium cleaning solution.
Who Should Buy Shark IQ?
The Shark IQ is the better choice for:
- Homes with predominantly carpeted floors.
- Pet owners needing strong suction for hair removal.
- Individuals seeking a self-emptying robot vacuum at a competitive price.
- Users who prioritize convenience and low maintenance.
Final Recommendation
Both the Roborock S7 and Shark IQ are excellent robot vacuums that offer unique features and benefits. The Roborock S7 stands out with its advanced mopping capabilities, precise LiDAR navigation, and customizable cleaning options, making it a top choice for those seeking a versatile and high-performance cleaning solution. However, its higher price point and separate auto-empty dock may not be suitable for all budgets.
The Shark IQ offers a compelling value proposition with its strong suction, self-emptying convenience, and self-cleaning brushroll, making it an excellent choice for pet owners and those seeking a low-maintenance cleaning experience. While it lacks the advanced mopping capabilities of the S7, its affordable price and reliable performance make it a popular choice for many households.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific cleaning needs, budget, and preferences. Consider the factors discussed in this comparison to make an informed decision and select the robot vacuum that best fits your lifestyle.
