The Roomba i3+ EVO offers a smart, self-emptying robot vacuum solution at a relatively affordable price. It sits below iRobot’s higher-end models like the Roomba j7+ but still delivers impressive cleaning power and navigational capabilities. This model is ideal for those looking to invest in an efficient vacuum without the extra bells and whistles of pricier models like the Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni or Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra. Let’s take a closer look at what the Roomba i3+ EVO has to offer and see how it stacks up against some of its competitors.
Roomba i3+ EVO Review Summary of Ratings
| Category | Rating | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Design & Build Quality | 8/10 | Compact and sturdy, fits under most furniture but lacks advanced cameras. |
| Cleaning Performance | 8.5/10 | Strong suction for everyday messes, but not as powerful as premium competitors. |
| Navigation & Mapping | 7.5/10 | Efficient navigation, though it lacks advanced object recognition. |
| Self-Emptying | 9/10 | The Clean Base offers weeks of hands-free cleaning, adding significant convenience. |
| Battery Life | 7.5/10 | Decent for smaller homes, but not the longest-lasting compared to other models. |
| Price | 9/10 | Excellent value for a self-emptying robot vacuum with solid features. |
Design & Build Quality
The Roomba i3+ EVO features a sleek, low-profile design typical of the Roomba lineup. While it lacks the advanced obstacle detection cameras seen in the iRobot Roomba j7+ or the Samsung Jet Bot AI+, its build is sturdy, and its size allows it to slip under most furniture with ease. The surface is textured, which helps hide scratches and scuffs over time.
Compared to the bulkier Neato D10 with its D-shaped design, the round shape of the i3+ EVO may not reach corners quite as effectively, but it performs well in general cleaning areas. Its solid construction makes it a reliable choice for everyday use.
Cleaning Performance
The Roomba i3+ EVO uses iRobot’s dual multi-surface rubber brushes, which work exceptionally well on both carpets and hard floors. While it doesn’t have the same suction power as premium models like the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra, it still handles dirt, dust, and pet hair efficiently. Its Dirt Detect technology is another standout feature, focusing more on areas that need extra attention, ensuring a thorough clean.
However, if you’re dealing with particularly stubborn messes, especially on high-pile carpets, you might want to consider models with higher suction power like the Shark AI Ultra or Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni. On hard floors, the i3+ EVO performs admirably, though it doesn’t offer the mopping feature found in hybrid models like the Dreametech Z10 Pro or Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra.
Smart Mapping & Navigation
While the Roomba i3+ EVO lacks the PrecisionVision Navigation found in the Roomba j7+, its navigation system still does a great job of methodically cleaning in straight lines, ensuring no areas are missed. It uses Imprint Smart Mapping, which allows it to learn your home’s layout over time, making its cleaning routes more efficient with each run.
If you need advanced smart mapping and object avoidance, models like the Samsung Jet Bot AI+ and Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra might be more suitable. But for the price, the i3+ EVO does a great job of navigating without getting stuck or missing spots, making it a great value option for most homes.
Self-Emptying Convenience
One of the biggest selling points of the Roomba i3+ EVO is its Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal. The vacuum automatically empties its dustbin into the Clean Base after each cleaning, allowing it to work for weeks without you needing to manually empty it. This feature is especially convenient for busy households and is typically only seen in higher-end models like the Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni or Shark AI Ultra.
Although the Clean Base system is effective, it is slightly noisier than some of its competitors. If noise is a concern, you may want to consider other options, but the convenience it offers can’t be overstated.
Battery Life & Recharge and Resume
The Roomba i3+ EVO has a decent battery life, providing around 75 minutes of cleaning per charge. While this might not be as long as some competitors like the Neato D10 or Proscenic Floobot X1, its Recharge and Resume feature ensures it returns to finish the job if the battery runs out mid-clean.
For larger homes, you might find models like the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra or Neato D10 more suited as they offer longer runtimes. However, for small to mid-sized homes, the i3+ EVO should suffice without needing multiple recharges.
Price & Value
The Roomba i3+ EVO is competitively priced compared to other self-emptying vacuums, making it an attractive choice for those who want the convenience of automation without breaking the bank. It’s more affordable than the iRobot Roomba j7+ or Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra, while still offering solid cleaning performance and smart features.
If you’re on a budget but still want the luxury of a self-emptying vacuum, the Roomba i3+ EVO is one of the best value options available. It strikes a balance between functionality, automation, and price, making it a top pick for many households.
Comparisons to Competitors
- Roomba j7+: The iRobot Roomba j7+ offers advanced obstacle detection and precision navigation, which the i3+ EVO lacks. However, if you don’t need advanced features like object recognition, the i3+ EVO is a more affordable option while still maintaining high-quality cleaning performance.
- Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni: If you want a vacuum and mop combo, the Deebot T20 Omni outshines the i3+ EVO with its dual functionality. However, if mopping isn’t necessary, the i3+ EVO’s self-emptying feature offers great convenience at a lower price point.
- Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra: The Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra excels in suction power, navigation, and hybrid cleaning with mopping. However, it comes at a higher price than the i3+ EVO, which focuses solely on vacuuming and affordability.
- Samsung Jet Bot AI+: The Jet Bot AI+ features advanced object recognition and avoidance, making it ideal for homes with many obstacles. While the i3+ EVO lacks this, it offers excellent cleaning at a lower price.
- Shark AI Ultra: The Shark AI Ultra provides a similar experience to the i3+ EVO, with a self-emptying base and strong performance. The i3+ EVO is often priced more affordably, making it a better option for budget-conscious buyers.
Final Thoughts
The Roomba i3+ EVO strikes a perfect balance between convenience, performance, and price. While it doesn’t have all the high-tech features of the Roomba j7+ or the power of the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra, it delivers great value for everyday cleaning tasks. Its self-emptying base, efficient cleaning pattern, and solid app integration make it a standout option for those looking for hassle-free automation.
If you want a reliable robot vacuum that can take care of cleaning without constant maintenance, the Roomba i3+ EVO is a fantastic option, especially for homes where mopping isn’t necessary. For more advanced needs like object detection or hybrid cleaning, models like the Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni or Samsung Jet Bot AI+ may be better suited.
