Neato vs. Roomba

In today’s hectic modern world, you might not have the time to clean the house on a regular basis. Thankfully, modern robot vacuums can save the day and take over the whole process. The main challenge is to find the right vacuum among the constantly expanding selection now available on the market.

But don’t worry. We’ve got you covered.

In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at different Neato and Roomba offerings. Both brands have a great reputation and produce high-quality, innovative products, and our detailed feature comparison will help to determine which is best. Plus, we’ll answer some common questions related to choosing a robot vacuum.

If you haven’t got much time, check out the main differences in the Neato and Roomba models below:

Let’s take a detailed look at four vacuum models from each brand before going into an in-depth comparison.

In the past, Neato tended to only improve minor points on previous models. With the D8, however, Neato offers more significant hardware and software advancements. For example, this model’s filter has been upgraded and now traps up to 99% of allergens. In terms of figures, the vacuum’s run time has decreased from 120 to 100 minutes, but in practice, it remains impressive. Due to efficient battery utilization and high speed, the D8 can clean up to 750 square feet in one go. It also utilizes drop sensors now, so stairs are no longer an issue. Last but not least, the D8 features an info button with voice responses.

Pros:

• Cleans large area in one go
• Automatically recharges taking only the time needed to finish daily cleaning
• Info button with voice responses
• Improved filter
• 700 milliliter dustbin capacity
• Performs better on high-pile carpets than predecessors

Cons:

• No automatic emptying
• Modes have to be switched manually

Cost at time of review: The vacuum costs $499.99 with a discount on the official Neato’s website. The full price is $699.99.

What’s in the box:

• Neato D8 Intelligent Robot Vacuum
• Slimline Charge Base
• Power cord (6 feet)
• High-Performance filters (2 extra)
• Brush cleaning tool
• Spiral Combo Brush
• 2100mAH 14.4V lithium-ion battery

Specifications:

• 0.7-liter dirt bin capacity
• High-Performance E11 filter
• All surface types
• Brushed indigo finish
• Drop sensors
• LIDAR mapping and navigation
• Auto-recharge and resume
• Info button with voice-based responses
• Up to 100 minutes runtime
• Cleans 750 sq. ft. on a single charge

 Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 4.4/5

→See the best offer on Amazon in your location

Just like the predecessor models D4 and D6, Neato D7 utilizes LaserSmart technology and offers advanced control via the mobile app. It memorizes up to three-floor plans, navigates in the dark, and adapts to various surfaces. You can set keep-out zones and schedule cleanings to your preference. The D7 cleans even the most challenging spots thoroughly using the Turbo Mode. The vacuum runs for up to 120 minutes, then automatically docks to recharge and resumes from the same spot. With the Quick Boost technology, it calculates exactly how much time is required to finish the daily job.

What’s new? The D7 now supports zone cleaning. You can use voice control to request that the vacuum clean a specific area, for instance, under the kitchen counter rather than cleaning the whole home. In the D6, it was only possible via the mobile app.

Pros:

• Zone cleaning now controlled with voice
• Custom keep-out zones
• 700 milliliter dustbin capacity
• Up to 120 minutes run time
• Memorizes multiple floor plans
• Turbo Mode
• Quick Boost charging mode

Cons:

• No automatic scheduling

Cost at time of review: The vacuum’s full price on the official manufacturer’s site is $599.99. It’s currently available at $499.99.

What’s in the box:

• Neato D7 intelligent robot vacuum
• Charge Base
• Power cord (6′, 2m)
• Spiral Combo Brush
• Ultra-Performance filter
• Cleaning Tool
• Boundary markers (2 m/6.5 ft)
• High-capacity lithium-ion battery

Specifications:

• 0.7-liter dustbin capacity
• Ultra-Performance HEPA-style filter
• Spiral Combo Brush for all surface types
• Runtime: Up to 120 minutes
• Charge Time: Up to 150 minutes

Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 4.2/5 

Neato D6 features Neato’s unique LaserSmart mapping technology that enables it to navigate seamlessly even in the dark. It easily adapts the brush position to different surfaces and can memorize multiple floor plans. Furthermore, you can set custom keep-out zones and schedules via the native mobile app. That’s especially handy if you have kids or pets. Neato D6 also leaves no traces of pet fur, thanks to the Turbo Mode and a big brush.

While all the above-mentioned features are impressive, they’re also present in Neato’s base model, the D4. So, what has been improved? Well, the D6 can run up to 120 minutes without charging –nearly twice as long as its predecessor. Plus, it offers Quick Boost charging technology that calculates exactly how much power is required to finish the daily cleaning. Instead of charging fully each time, it automatically returns to base when needed, has a quick boost, and resumes at the same spot.

Pros:

• Quick Boost technology
• Improved run time up to 120 minutes
• 700 milliliter dustbin capacity
• Custom keep-out zones
• Automatically adapts to different surfaces
• Multiple control options

Cons:

• No automatic cleaning scheduling, it has to be done via the app

Cost at time of review: The full price of a vacuum is $499.99 on the official manufacturer’s website. Currently, it’s available with a discount for $399.99.

What’s in the box:

• Neato D6 intelligent robot vacuum
• Charge Base
• Power Cord (1.8 m/6 ft)
• Spiral Combo Brush
• Ultra-Performance filter
• Cleaning Tool
• Boundary markers (2 m/6.5 ft)
• High-capacity lithium-ion battery

Specifications:

• 0.7-liter dustbin capacity
• Ultra-Performance HEPA-style filter
• Spiral Combo Brush for all surface types
• Runtime: Up to 120 minutes
• Charge Time: Up to 150 minutes

Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 4.1/5 

Neato D4 is the company’s base model. Although it’s the most affordable product from Neato Robotics, this vacuum offers features comparable to the high-end products of other brands. Neato D4 utilizes advanced lasers to detect and automatically adapt to any surface, be it wood, carpet, or tile. It navigates around your house seamlessly, even in the dark. The D4 is perfect for pet owners, as it features an ultra-big brush and Turbo Mode that leaves no traces of hair and negotiates challenging spots with ease.

What’s more, with the help of a native mobile app, you can set custom keep-out zones and schedule cleanings. Apart from the app, the vacuum can be controlled using Apple Watch, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and more options.

Pros:

• Scheduling via mobile app
• Custom keep-out zones
• 700 milliliter dustbin capacity
• Memorizes multiple floor plans
• Adapts to different surfaces
• Various control options

Cons:

• No automatic scheduling
• Only 75-minute run time

Cost at time of review: The vacuum is normally priced at $429.99 on the manufacturer’s official site. Currently, it’s available for $299.99.

What’s in the box:

• Neato D4 intelligent robot vacuum
• Charge Base
• Power Cord (1.8 m/6 ft)
• Combo Brush
• High-Performance filter
• Cleaning Tool
• Lithium-ion battery

Specifications:

• 0.7-liter dustbin capacity
• High-Performance filter
• Spiral Combo Brush for all surface types
• Runtime: Up to 75 minutes
• Charge Time: Up to 100 minutes

Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 4/5 

Roomba s9 is the latest and most advanced iRobot product. Smart mapping technology and voice assistant support enable you to control which areas the vacuum cleans without lifting a finger. With an updated, user-friendly mobile app, you can select specific areas to clean. For instance, Roomba s9 can clean up an accidental mess under the kitchen table before you even finish your breakfast.

Not only has the software improved, Roomba s9 features 30 times stronger suction lift than the Roomba base series. PerfectEdge technology and innovative brushes provide perfect cleaning, even in the most challenging corners. This vacuum features wider dual multi-surface rubber brushes that don’t get tangled with hair. Finally, as opposed to previous models with an optional automatic emptying base, Roomba s9 comes in a set with Clean Base by default. This feature enables you to dispose of dirt only once in two months on average. That’s what we call a truly hassle-free cleaning.

Pros:

• Improved rubber brushes
• Thorough cleaning in corners
• Better floor mapping
• Comes with automatically emptying station
• Custom no-go zones
• 120-minute run time

Cons:

• Noisy
• Clogs easily

Cost at time of review: The normal price of a vacuum and self-emptying station set is $1,099.99. Currently, it costs $949.99 on sale. If you wish to add a robot mop, the whole bundle will cost you $1,149.99.

What’s in the box:

• iRobot Roomba s9+ Vacuum
• Automatically emptying base
• Dust Disposal Bags
• North American Cord
• Extra High-Efficiency Filter
• Corner Brush

Specifications:

• Vacuum Weight: 8.15 pounds
• Vacuum Size: 12.25 inches wide and 3.5 inches high
• Battery: Lithium-Ion
• 400-millimeter capacity dustbin and automatically emptying station

Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 3.3/5 

iRobot has significantly improved the suction power in Roomba i7 compared to its predecessors Roomba 694 and i3. Just like other brand’s vacuums, it analyzes your habits and adapts to them, suggesting customized schedules. The schedules and other settings can later be adjusted via the iRobot mobile app. Furthermore, the vacuum supports Google and Alexa so that you can control it from any spot in your house. By connecting the vacuum with iRobot’s Braava Jet robot mop, you can achieve a spotlessly clean house. When a recharge is needed, Roomba i7 docks automatically and later resumes at the same place it stopped. The best thing is, rather than recharging fully, it only takes the energy needed to complete the pending cleaning session.

In terms of innovative features not present in previous Roomba models, the i7 chooses the best cleaning patterns with the help of iAdapt mapping technology. It vacuums only the chosen areas selected via the app. Roomba i7 learns ten-floor plans, thus is suitable for the largest houses. Finally, you can select custom no-go areas to prevent vacuum from cleaning certain spaces. That’s especially useful if you have kids who tend to leave small items on the floor.

Pros:

• Custom no-go zones
• Google and Alexa control
• Vacuuming by specified areas
• Great for large houses with multiple floors
• Compatible with robot mop

Cons:

• Relatively small dustbin capacity
• Short battery lifetime

Cost at time of review: The vacuum’s full price is $599.99. On promotion, it’s priced at $449.99. A set of the vacuum and compatible automatically emptying base is currently available at $649.99, and with additional robot mop at $899.98.

What’s in the box:

• iRobot Roomba i7 Vacuum
• North American Cord
• Home Base Charging Station
• Extra Filter
• Side Brush

Specifications:

• Vacuum Weight: 7.44 pounds
• Vacuum Size: 13.34 inches wide and 3.63 inches high
• Battery: Lithium-Ion
• 500-milliliter capacity dustbin

Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 4.3/5 

The Roomba i3 offers far more powerful suction compared to the Roomba 694. It automatically selects the required brush height for different surfaces. Thus, you don’t have to control the vacuum manually to clean your carpets. Rubberized dual brushes are designed to fight against pet dander allergens and to avoid tangling. Thanks to smart navigation technology, Roomba i3 won’t get stuck, either. It simply detects whether it can or can’t reach a certain area.

The vacuum analyzes your habits to issue custom cleaning schedules and suggest additional recommendations. The iRobot mobile app enables you to adjust all the settings to your personal preference. Additionally, you can control the vacuum from a distance using Google or Alexa voice assistants. When a recharge is required, Roomba i3 automatically returns to the charging station. Then, it resumes at the same spot to complete the daily clean. Last but not least, the vacuum can be linked with robot mop to ensure brilliant results.

Pros:

• Connects with a Braava Jet mop
• Voice assistant control
• Automatically returns to charging station and resumes from the same spot
• Efficiently fights pet allergens

Cons:

• Small debris bin
• Noisy

Cost at time of review: The full price of the vacuum is $399.99. With a promotional discount, it costs $329.99. A set of a vacuum and a self-emptying base costs $499.99 on sale. Finally, a full set of vacuum, self-emptying station, and robot mop is priced at $719.98 or $1,049.98 (full price).

What’s in the box:

• iRobot Roomba i3
• Home Base Charging Station
• Extra Filter
• 400-milliliter dustbin

Specifications:

• Vacuum Weight: 7.44 pounds.
• Vacuum Size: 13.26 inches wide, 3.63 inches high, and13.34 deep
• Battery: Lithium-Ion

Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 4.1/5 

Roomba 694 is an entry-level iRobot product. However, it has all the essential features of a proper robot vacuum. This vacuum detects and gets rid of dirt, spending more time to thoroughly clean the messiest spots. It easily handles various surfaces, automatically adapting the brush height to hard and soft floors. Roomba 694 memorizes all obstacles on the floor to avoid them. Google and Alexa voice assistant support help you to control the vacuum without lifting a finger.

One of the most useful Roomba 694 features is the custom cleaning schedule created personally for you. The vacuum analyses your habits and may even suggest additional sessions to improve the cleanliness of your house. The maximum run time is 90 minutes. Afterward, the vacuum returns to the charging station on its own.

Pros:

• Customized scheduling and additional cleaning advice
• Automatically recharges
• Adapts to different surfaces
• Affordable
• Voice control

Cons:

• Small debris bin
• Noisy

Cost at time of review: $229.99 on the official website, the full price is $274.99.

What’s in the box:

• Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum
• Home Base Charging Station
• Extra Filter

Specifications:

• Vacuum Weight: 6.77 pounds
• Vacuum Size: 13.4 inches wide and 3.54 inches high
• Battery: Lithium-Ion
• 350-milliliter dustbin

Rating on manufacturer’s official site: 4.4/5 

Now that you know the offerings from both iRobot and Neato, it’s time to compare them in detail. Read on for a step-by-step feature comparison.

Based on the feature comparison, Neato is a clear winner. Two points are worth mentioning, though. Firstly, the score difference in percentages is insignificant. Secondly, Roomba wins in crucial robot vacuum departments – navigation and scheduling. The dustbin capacity and value are also important, and here, Roomba is just as good as Neato.

Here are answers to the most common questions related to robot vacuums:

Although the comparison has shown a very minor variation in scores, Roomba and Neato vacuums are, in fact, very different. Hopefully, our guide has helped you determine which robot vacuum better fits your personal needs. When making the final decision, consider all points discussed above thoroughly. After all, you’re purchasing the vacuum for a long time, and it’s meant to make your life easier, not add to your problems.