Robot vacuums have revolutionized home cleaning, offering a convenient way to maintain tidy floors with minimal effort. Among the various brands and models, the Shark ION Robot S86 and the iRobot Roomba 670 stand out as popular choices for budget-conscious consumers seeking automated cleaning solutions. Both robots promise to keep your floors free of dust, debris, and pet hair, but they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. This comparison delves into their features, performance, and value proposition to help you determine which robot vacuum best suits your home and lifestyle.
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The Shark ION Robot S86 and iRobot Roomba 670 occupy similar positions in the entry-level robot vacuum market. The Roomba 670 is a well-established model from iRobot, a company known for pioneering robotic cleaning technology. It is often chosen by those familiar with the Roomba brand or who want a reliable, no-frills cleaning experience with smart home integration. The Shark ION Robot S86, on the other hand, appeals to users who prioritize affordability and appreciate the inclusion of a handheld vacuum for above-floor cleaning tasks, offering a more comprehensive cleaning solution in one package.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Shark ION Robot S86 Short Review
- iRobot Roomba 670 Short Review
- 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 the Shark ION Robot S86?
- Who Should Buy the iRobot Roomba 670?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For budget-conscious buyers who want a 2-in-1 cleaning system: The Shark ION Robot S86, with its included handheld vacuum, offers more versatility for the price.
- For users who prioritize brand reputation and ease of use: The iRobot Roomba 670, backed by iRobot’s experience and a user-friendly app, is a solid choice.
- For superior carpet cleaning and smart navigation: Neither of these entry-level models excel in these areas. Consider higher-end models for those features.
The Shark ION Robot S86 is designed as a comprehensive cleaning solution, pairing a robot vacuum for floors with a detachable handheld vacuum for tackling messes above floor level. This 2-in-1 system aims to provide convenience and versatility, allowing users to address various cleaning needs with a single purchase. The robot vacuum itself offers Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling control via a smartphone app and voice commands through platforms like Amazon Alexa.
The S86 boasts features such as smart sensor navigation to avoid obstacles and drop-offs, and a self-cleaning brushroll designed to minimize hair tangles. The inclusion of the ION handheld vacuum adds value by allowing users to quickly clean upholstery, stairs, and other areas where the robot vacuum cannot reach. This combination makes the Shark ION Robot S86 an attractive option for those seeking an affordable and versatile cleaning solution.
iRobot Roomba 670 Short Review
The iRobot Roomba 670 is a straightforward and reliable robot vacuum designed for everyday cleaning. As part of the Roomba 600 series, it offers essential features like a three-stage cleaning system, dual multi-surface brushes, and Dirt Detect sensors that focus cleaning efforts on areas with higher concentrations of dirt. Its low profile allows it to navigate under furniture, and its iAdapt Navigation system helps it move around obstacles.
The Roomba 670 connects to Wi-Fi, allowing users to control and schedule cleaning sessions via the iRobot Home app, as well as through voice commands with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. It automatically returns to its charging base when the battery is low, ensuring it’s always ready for the next cleaning cycle. The Roomba 670 is a practical choice for those who value simplicity, ease of use, and the established reputation of the iRobot brand.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Handheld Vacuum: The Shark ION Robot S86 includes a detachable handheld vacuum for above-floor cleaning, while the Roomba 670 focuses solely on floor cleaning.
- Brushroll Design: The Shark ION Robot S86 features a self-cleaning brushroll to minimize hair tangles, while the Roomba 670 uses standard multi-surface brushes.
- Price: The Shark ION Robot S86 is generally positioned as a more budget-friendly option, especially considering the inclusion of the handheld vacuum.
- Brand Reputation: iRobot Roomba is a more established brand in the robot vacuum market, known for its history of innovation and reliability.
- Navigation: Both use a random cleaning pattern.
- App Experience: The iRobot Home app is generally considered more user-friendly and stable than the SharkClean app.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark ION Robot S86 | iRobot Roomba 670 |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning System | Robot vacuum with self-cleaning brushroll + detachable handheld vacuum | 3-Stage Cleaning System with Dual Multi-Surface Brushes and Edge-Sweeping Brush |
| Navigation | Smart sensor navigation | iAdapt Navigation |
| Wi-Fi Connectivity | Yes, with app control and voice control (Alexa, Google Assistant) | Yes, with app control and voice control (Alexa, Google Assistant) |
| Battery Life | Varies | Up to 90 minutes |
| Charging | Self-charging | Self-charging |
| Dirt Detection | Yes | Yes, Dirt Detect sensors |
| Allergen Filtration | Yes, HEPA filter in handheld vacuum | No specific mention of HEPA filter |
| Included Accessories | Handheld vacuum, charging dock | Home Base charging station |
| Dimensions | Varies | 13.4 inches in diameter, 3.6 inches in height |
| Weight | Varies | 7.8 lbs |
Price Comparison
The Shark ION Robot S86 is typically priced lower than the iRobot Roomba 670, especially when considering the added value of the included handheld vacuum. This makes the Shark S86 a more attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers seeking a comprehensive cleaning solution. While the Roomba 670 may sometimes be found at discounted prices, the Shark S86 generally offers a better cost-to-feature ratio due to its versatility. Keep an eye on retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart for current pricing and deals on both models.
Design and Build Quality
The iRobot Roomba 670 features a classic, circular design with a low profile, allowing it to easily navigate under furniture. It feels sturdy and well-built, reflecting iRobot’s reputation for quality. The Shark ION Robot S86 also sports a similar circular design, but its build quality may not feel as premium as the Roomba. However, the inclusion of the detachable handheld vacuum adds a unique design element and expands the cleaning capabilities of the system. The aesthetic appeal of both models is subjective, but the Roomba 670 has a more refined and polished look.
Performance Face-Off
Cleaning Performance on Hard Floors
Both the Shark ION Robot S86 and the iRobot Roomba 670 perform adequately on hard floors, effectively picking up dust, dirt, and small debris. The Roomba 670’s dual multi-surface brushes agitate and sweep debris into the vacuum path, while the Shark S86 relies on its brushroll and suction power. In general, both models provide similar cleaning results on hard floors, making them suitable for homes with predominantly hard surface flooring.
Cleaning Performance on Carpets
On carpets, the iRobot Roomba 670 has a slight edge over the Shark ION Robot S86. The Roomba’s more powerful suction and brush design enable it to dig deeper into carpet fibers and extract more embedded dirt and pet hair. While the Shark S86 can still clean carpets effectively, it may require more passes to achieve the same level of cleanliness as the Roomba 670.
Pet Hair Cleaning
Both robot vacuums can handle pet hair, but the Roomba 670’s superior suction and brush design give it an advantage in this area. It can more effectively remove pet hair from both hard floors and carpets, making it a better choice for pet owners. The Shark ION Robot S86’s self-cleaning brushroll helps prevent hair tangles, but its overall pet hair cleaning performance is not as strong as the Roomba 670.
Edge Cleaning
Both models feature edge-sweeping brushes that help clean along walls and in corners. However, neither the Shark ION Robot S86 nor the iRobot Roomba 670 excel at edge cleaning. They may leave some debris behind in hard-to-reach areas, requiring manual touch-ups.
Special Features Comparison
The Shark ION Robot S86’s standout feature is its detachable handheld vacuum, which provides a versatile cleaning solution for above-floor surfaces. This feature is particularly useful for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and car interiors. The iRobot Roomba 670, on the other hand, focuses on core cleaning performance and offers features like Dirt Detect, which intelligently focuses cleaning efforts on areas with more dirt. While the Roomba 670 lacks the versatility of the Shark S86’s handheld vacuum, it offers a more refined and focused cleaning experience.
Usability and User Experience
The iRobot Roomba 670 is known for its ease of use and user-friendly app. The iRobot Home app allows users to easily schedule cleaning sessions, monitor progress, and control the robot vacuum remotely. The Shark ION Robot S86 also offers app control, but the SharkClean app is not as intuitive or stable as the iRobot app. Both models are easy to set up and operate, making them suitable for both novice and experienced users.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both the Shark ION Robot S86 and the iRobot Roomba 670 require regular maintenance, including emptying the dustbins, cleaning the brushes, and replacing filters. The Shark S86’s self-cleaning brushroll helps reduce hair tangles, minimizing maintenance efforts. iRobot has a reputation for producing durable and long-lasting robot vacuums, while Shark’s longevity is still being established in the robot vacuum market.
Who Should Buy the Shark ION Robot S86?
The Shark ION Robot S86 is an ideal choice for:
- Budget-conscious shoppers seeking an affordable robot vacuum.
- Users who want a 2-in-1 cleaning system with a handheld vacuum for above-floor cleaning.
- Individuals who appreciate the convenience of app control and voice command compatibility.
Who Should Buy the iRobot Roomba 670?
The iRobot Roomba 670 is a good fit for:
- Users who prioritize brand reputation and reliability.
- Individuals who want a simple, easy-to-use robot vacuum with a user-friendly app.
- Pet owners who need effective pet hair cleaning capabilities.
Final Recommendation
The choice between the Shark ION Robot S86 and the iRobot Roomba 670 depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you’re on a tight budget and value the versatility of a 2-in-1 cleaning system, the Shark ION Robot S86 is a solid choice. However, if you prioritize brand reputation, ease of use, and superior pet hair cleaning, the iRobot Roomba 670 is the better option. Ultimately, both robot vacuums offer a convenient way to keep your floors clean, but the Roomba 670 provides a more refined and reliable cleaning experience.
