The Roomba 694 and Shark AV752 represent accessible entry points into the world of robot vacuums. Both models offer the convenience of automated cleaning at a price point that won’t break the bank, making them appealing options for first-time robot vacuum owners or those seeking a secondary unit for smaller spaces. These robots primarily target busy individuals, pet owners seeking to manage shedding, and anyone looking to offload the chore of daily floor cleaning.
While positioned as budget-friendly solutions, the Roomba 694 and Shark AV752 aim to deliver effective cleaning performance and smart features. Potential buyers often find themselves weighing the established reputation of the Roomba brand against the innovative technologies Shark incorporates into its products. This comparison delves into the nuances of each model, providing a clear perspective on their strengths and weaknesses to help you determine which robot vacuum best suits your needs.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Roomba 694
- Short Review of Shark AV752
- 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 Roomba 694?
- Who Should Buy Shark AV752?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For overall cleaning performance: Roomba 694, particularly on carpets and hard floors.
- For budget-conscious buyers: Shark AV752, as it’s often available at a lower price.
- For users prioritizing maneuverability: Roomba 694.
- For those wanting longer runtime: Shark AV752.
Short Review of Roomba 694
The Roomba 694 is a budget-friendly robot vacuum that provides a solid cleaning performance, making it a good option for those new to robot vacuums or seeking a reliable, no-frills cleaning solution. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for control via a smartphone app, and is also compatible with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. The Roomba 694 is particularly effective at cleaning both carpets and hard floors, using a 3-stage cleaning system to loosen, lift, and suction dirt and debris.
While the Roomba 694 lacks advanced features such as digital mapping, zoned cleaning, and virtual barriers, it compensates with its ease of use and dependable performance. Its adaptive navigation system allows it to navigate under and around furniture, while cliff detect prevents it from falling down stairs. This model is best suited for smaller homes or apartments without complex layouts.
Short Review of Shark AV752
The Shark AV752 is a budget-friendly robot vacuum designed to provide convenient, hands-free cleaning. It features a Tri-Brush System, which combines side brushes, channel brushes, and a multi-surface brush roll to effectively handle debris on various floor types. The Shark AV752 connects to Wi-Fi, enabling users to control the vacuum through the SharkClean app or via voice commands using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
The AV752 is equipped with intelligent cliff sensors to prevent falls and is designed to avoid bumping into furniture and walls. It offers a runtime of up to 120 minutes, making it suitable for whole-home cleaning. While it lacks advanced navigation and mapping capabilities, its ease of use and reliable cleaning performance make it a competitive option in the budget robot vacuum market.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Brush System: Roomba 694 has a 3-stage cleaning system with dual multi-surface brushes and an edge-sweeping brush, while the Shark AV752 features a Tri-Brush System with side brushes, channel brushes, and a multi-surface brush roll.
- Navigation: Roomba 694 uses adaptive navigation to move under and around furniture, whereas the Shark AV752 relies on bump technology.
- Runtime: Shark AV752 offers a longer runtime of up to 120 minutes compared to the Roomba 694’s 90 minutes.
- Dustbin Capacity: Shark AV752 has a slightly larger dustbin compared to Roomba 694.
- Maneuverability: Roomba 694 generally has better maneuverability compared to the Shark AV752.
- Special Features: Roomba 694 includes Dirt Detect, which allows it to focus on heavily soiled areas.
- Price: Shark AV752 is typically more budget-friendly than the Roomba 694.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Roomba 694 | Shark AV752 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 13.4″ x 13.4″ x 3.5″ | 12.6″ x 12.4″ x 3.54″ |
| Weight | 6.77 lbs | 6.6 lbs |
| Battery Life | Up to 90 minutes | Up to 120 minutes |
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.3L (0.1 gallons) | Slightly larger than Roomba 694 |
| Brush System | 3-Stage Cleaning with Dual Multi-Surface Brushes | Tri-Brush System (Side brushes, channel brushes, multi-surface brushroll) |
| Navigation | Adaptive Navigation | Bump Technology |
| App Control | Yes (iRobot Home App) | Yes (SharkClean App) |
| Voice Control | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Floor Types | Carpets and Hard Floors | Multi-Surface |
| Special Features | Dirt Detect | Intelligent Cliff Sensors |
| Self-Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 1 Year | |
| Height Adjustment | Automatic |
Price Comparison
The Roomba 694 is often listed around $274.99 but can be found on sale for as low as $140 – $180. The Shark AV752 typically retails around $228.49, but can be found on sale for around $129. While prices fluctuate, the Shark AV752 generally offers a lower entry point.
In terms of value proposition, both models offer a compelling set of features for their respective price points. The Roomba 694 provides a balance of performance and smart features, while the Shark AV752 emphasizes affordability and ease of use. Ultimately, the best value depends on individual needs and priorities.
Design and Build Quality
The Roomba 694 features a sleek, charcoal gray design that complements most home decors. It’s constructed with durable plastics and feels well-built for its price range. The Roomba 694 measures 13.4 inches in diameter and 3.5 inches in height, allowing it to fit under some furniture.
The Shark AV752 sports a white finish and a similar low-profile design. It also appears to be made of durable plastic materials. The Shark AV752 is slightly smaller at 12.6 inches in length, 12.4 inches in width, and 3.54 inches in height.
Performance Face-Off
Cleaning on Hard Floors
- Roomba 694: The Roomba 694 excels at cleaning hard floors, effectively picking up dust, crumbs, and other debris. Its edge-sweeping brush ensures thorough cleaning along walls and in corners.
- Shark AV752: The Shark AV752 also performs well on hard floors, thanks to its Tri-Brush System. The channel brushes help to direct debris towards the multi-surface brush roll, ensuring effective cleaning.
Cleaning on Carpets
- Roomba 694: The Roomba 694 delivers good performance on carpets, particularly high-pile carpets, where it can adjust its suction power.
- Shark AV752: The Shark AV752 effectively cleans carpets, with its multi-surface brush roll agitating and lifting dirt and debris.
Pet Hair
- Roomba 694: While the Roomba 694 can handle some pet hair, it may struggle with larger amounts, especially on carpets. More advanced Roomba models have better filtration and brush rolls designed for pet hair.
- Shark AV752: The Shark AV752 is effective at picking up pet hair due to the multi-surface brushroll.
Navigation
- Roomba 694: The Roomba 694 uses adaptive navigation, which allows it to navigate under and around furniture.
- Shark AV752: The Shark AV752 relies on bump technology, which means it bumps into objects before changing direction.
Special Features Comparison
- Roomba 694: The Roomba 694’s Dirt Detect feature allows it to sense and spend more time cleaning heavily soiled areas.
- Shark AV752: The Shark AV752 features intelligent cliff sensors, which prevent it from falling down stairs.
Usability and User Experience
The Roomba 694 is easy to use, with a simple setup process and intuitive app control. The iRobot Home app allows users to schedule cleaning cycles, start or stop cleaning remotely, and adjust settings. The Roomba 694 is suitable for both novice and experienced users.
The Shark AV752 is also user-friendly, with straightforward controls and easy app connectivity. The SharkClean app offers similar functionality to the iRobot Home app, allowing users to schedule cleanings and control the robot remotely. The Shark AV752 is also suitable for a wide range of users.
Maintenance and Longevity
The Roomba 694 requires regular maintenance, including emptying the dustbin, cleaning the brushes, and replacing the filter every few months. iRobot offers a one-year warranty for the Roomba 694.
The Shark AV752 also requires similar maintenance, such as emptying the dustbin and cleaning the brushes. Shark’s warranty information should be checked at the time of purchase.
Who Should Buy Roomba 694?
- Users who prioritize cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors.
- Individuals who want a robot vacuum with smart features like Dirt Detect and app control.
- Those who prefer the established reputation and reliability of the Roomba brand.
Who Should Buy Shark AV752?
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking an affordable robot vacuum.
- Users who want a longer runtime for whole-home cleaning.
- Individuals who need a robot vacuum that is effective at picking up pet hair.
Final Recommendation
The Roomba 694 and Shark AV752 are both capable robot vacuums that offer convenient, hands-free cleaning at an affordable price. The Roomba 694 stands out for its superior cleaning performance, Dirt Detect feature, and better maneuverability. However, the Shark AV752 provides a longer runtime and is often more budget-friendly, making it a compelling option for those prioritizing affordability. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences.
