iRobot is adding two new reasonably priced robot vacuums to its lineup that aim to offer the best cleansing basics, offering each self-vacuuming and 2-in-1 mop models for under $300.
Replacing the Roomba 694, iRobot says the new $275 Roomba Combo Essential vacuum and mop model offers 20 times more suction power than its predecessor and increases estimated battery life from 90 minutes to 120 minutes when fully charged.
The liquid and suction settings on the Combo Essential may be adjusted to a few levels. It also features a V-shaped multi-surface brush, an edge sweeping brush, and a pump-powered microfiber mop pad for use on quite a lot of surfaces. Additional features include suggested cleansing schedules based on previous tasks, reports showing useful information corresponding to where and whenever you clean in the iRobot Home app, and a “Clean While I’m Away” setting for automatic cleansing whenever you leave home.
“Clean Map” reports, which show how much of your private home Roomba has cleaned, may be present in the iRobot Home app. Photo: iRobot
Roomba Combo Essential may also be run in vacuum-only mode by removing the mop cover, but should you don’t need the mop function at all, you’ll be able to opt for a less expensive version that bypasses it completely.
The $249.99 Roomba Vac Essential will launch alongside the Combo Essential and offers a lot of the same features in a vacuum-only package. This is a pleasant touch, considering how few competing robot vendors currently offer vacuum-only products. The functions of a mop may be wasted for customers who should not have suitable floors, and the freed up space can allow the vacuum cleaner to run longer without having to empty it.
Unfortunately, none of the new Roomba Essential models have the choice to mechanically empty the dock. This is a bit disappointing as this feature is becoming an increasing number of common in reasonably priced offerings from competing robovac brands.
Roomba Combo Essential is now available in the US, Europe, Middle East and Africa via iRobot.com. It shall be available at select US retailers on April 7, then in Canada on April 12. Roomba Vac Essential can even be available at select retailers in the U.S. on April 7 and in Canada on April 12, though worldwide availability has not been revealed.
Credit : www.theverge.com
