iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ Review

Summary / TL;DR

The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is a high-end robotic vacuum that offers advanced mapping, powerful suction, and automatic dirt disposal. This Wi-Fi connected device can be controlled through the iRobot Home App, allowing users to schedule cleanings and monitor progress. It features intelligent navigation and Imprint Smart Mapping technology, enabling it to remember multiple floor plans and suggest personalized cleaning schedules. The i8+ model is also efficient in cleaning, with its AeroForce 3-Stage Cleaning System and high-efficiency filter that captures 99% of all allergens. It is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant, making it a great addition to smart homes. Despite its high price tag, the Roomba i8+ provides a comprehensive cleaning solution with its combination of power, intelligence, and convenience.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the iRobot Roomba J7 or iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ or iRobot Roomba Combo j9+.

Product Overview

The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is a revolutionary robotic vacuum designed to deliver a superior cleaning performance. This cutting-edge gadget is part of the iRobot's i-series, renowned for their advanced mapping capabilities and powerful suction.

This model stands out among its competitors with its automatic dirt disposal system, which means less intervention from you and more time for other activities. As a Wi-Fi connected device, the Roomba i8+ can be easily controlled through the iRobot Home App, enabling you to schedule cleanings and monitor its progress without lifting a finger.

Furthermore, this robotic vacuum cleaner boasts of intelligent navigation and Imprint Smart Mapping technology. This allows it to remember multiple floor plans and room names, and it can also suggest personalized cleaning schedules based on your living patterns. This is a big leap forward in terms of convenience and user experience.

The i8+ model is not just about convenience; it's about efficient and thorough cleaning too. With its AeroForce 3-Stage Cleaning System, it's engineered to loosen, lift, and suction everything from small particles to large debris off your floors. Moreover, it features a high-efficiency filter that captures 99% of all allergens, pollen, and particles as small as 10 microns.

Adding to its impressive features, the Roomba i8+ is compatible with both Alexa and Google Assistant, making it a great fit for smart homes. It also has a unique talent for learning your cleaning habits and offering personalized schedules, providing an unprecedented level of interaction with a robotic vacuum cleaner.

Overall, the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ aims to provide a comprehensive cleaning solution that combines power, intelligence, and convenience in a single package. Its high price tag might raise a few eyebrows, but considering its myriad of high-tech features and exceptional performance, it might not be too much to ask for a device that practically guarantees a spotless home.

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Key Features

One of the key features of the iRobot Roomba i8+ is its iAdapt 3.0 Navigation with vSLAM technology. This advanced navigation system allows the robot vacuum to efficiently map and clean an entire level of your home. With its vSLAM technology, the Roomba i8+ can capture thousands of precise measurements each millisecond, enabling it to optimize coverage and clean your home more thoroughly.

Another impressive feature is the Imprint Smart Mapping capability. This intelligent system allows the Roomba i8+ to learn, map, and adapt to your home over time. It can recognize different rooms within your home, allowing you to fully customize your cleaning schedules. The Imprint Smart Mapping also enables users to direct the Roomba to clean specific rooms via the iRobot Home App or voice control through Alexa or Google Assistant.

The Roomba i8+ also sports a High-Efficiency Filter that traps 99% of cat and dog allergens, making it a great choice for pet owners. Additionally, the robot vacuum cleaner features a 3-Stage Cleaning System that uses Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes and 10X the Power-Lifting Suction to effectively remove dust, dirt, and debris from your floors.

One of the standout features of the Roomba i8+ is its Automatic Dirt Disposal capability. With this feature, the robot vacuum can empty itself into an AllergenLock bag (which can hold up to 60 days of dirt and dust) in the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal unit. This feature greatly reduces the need for regular maintenance and keeps your hands clean.

Lastly, the Roomba i8+ features a Recharge and Resume function. This means that when the battery gets low, the robot vacuum will automatically return to its base to recharge and then continue cleaning where it left off. This autonomous operation feature makes the Roomba i8+ incredibly user-friendly and efficient.

Design and Build Quality

The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ encapsulates a blend of modern aesthetics and practical design elements. With its circular shape and sleek matte finish, the robot vacuum cleaner is a testament to iRobot's commitment to innovative design. It maintains a compact structure with a diameter of 13.34 inches and a height of 3.63 inches, allowing it to adeptly maneuver under furniture and around obstacles in your home.

The build quality of the Roomba i8+ is undoubtedly robust and durable. The top surface is made of sturdy plastic, resistant to scratches and scuffs, ensuring the device can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. It also includes bumpers to protect the device as it navigates around obstacles and Cliff Detect sensors to prevent it from falling down stairs.

The device features a 3-Stage Cleaning System that is a signature of iRobot's design approach. This includes a Multi-Surface rubber brush, a corner brush for detailed cleaning, and an auto-adjust cleaning head that adapts its height in real-time to keep the brushes in close contact with different floor surfaces.

The underbelly of the vacuum houses the dust bin and filter, both of which are easy to access and replace. The filter is actually a high-efficiency filter that can capture 99% of cat and dog allergens. Besides, the dust bin has an automatic dirt disposal feature that empties itself into a disposable AllergenLock bag, capable of holding 60 days' worth of dirt and dust. This is a noteworthy feature in the Roomba i8+ and is particularly useful for those who prioritize low maintenance.

Overall, the design and build quality of the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is a strong reflection of its premium status. It balances aesthetics and functionality with a sturdy construction that can withstand daily use. Its impressive array of sensors and cleaning elements showcase iRobot's commitment to delivering a product that is not just visually appealing, but highly efficient as well.

What's in the Box

Unboxing a new product is always a thrilling experience, and with the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+, it's no different. Inside the box, you'll find the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ robot vacuum cleaner itself. The vacuum is neatly packed and secured to prevent any damage during transport.

In addition to the vacuum, you'll also find a clean base automatic dirt disposal. This innovative component is what sets the i8+ apart from many other robot vacuums on the market. The clean base is designed to collect the debris from the vacuum after each cleaning session, freeing up your time and reducing the need for manual intervention.

Also included is an extra high-efficiency filter and an extra corner brush. These extra parts can come in handy when it's time to replace the originals, ensuring your i8+ continues to operate at peak efficiency.

iRobot also includes a line cord for the clean base in the box. Make sure to carefully read the manual on how to properly set up and use this cord to avoid any mishaps.

Lastly, the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ comes with a user manual and quick start guide. These documents are crucial for understanding the operation and maintenance of your new robot vacuum. They provide detailed instructions, safety information, and troubleshooting tips to ensure you get the most out of your product.

To sum up, here's what you can expect to find in the box of the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+:

• iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ robot vacuum cleaner
• Clean base automatic dirt disposal
• Extra high-efficiency filter
• Extra corner brush
• Line cord
• User manual and quick start guide

The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ package offers a comprehensive set of components to get you started on your automated cleaning journey. In the following sections of this review, we will be delving into the performance, efficiency, and user experience offered by this robot vacuum.

Performance and Efficiency

The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ stands out in the market for its impressive performance and efficiency. From its navigation patterns to cleaning capabilities, this device is built to deliver an impressive cleaning routine.

The i8+ employs a smart mapping technology iAdapt 3.0 with vSLAM navigation, which collects over 230,400 data points per second that the 1.3 GHz quad-core processor uses to create an accurate map of your home. This allows the vacuum to navigate smoothly and clean more efficiently, as well as to remember the layout of your home for systematic cleaning.

For cleaning performance, the Roomba i8+ features a 3-Stage Cleaning System with Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes and 10X the Power-Lifting Suction compared to the Roomba 600 series. This robust system efficiently picks up dust, dirt, pet hair and large debris from hard floors and carpets. The high-efficiency filter captures 99% of all allergens, pollen, and particles as small as 10 microns, ensuring a thorough cleaning and a healthier home environment.

Furthermore, the i8+ is equipped with a Dirt Detect Technology which recognizes concentrated areas of dirt and prompts the robot to clean them more thoroughly. This feature is particularly useful for high-traffic areas in your home where dust and dirt may accumulate more quickly.

One of the standout features of the i8+ is its Automatic Dirt Disposal system. After each cleaning session, the robot automatically empties its bin into the Clean Base, which also acts as a charging station. This base can hold up to 60 days' worth of dirt and debris, reducing the frequency at which you need to manually empty the bin.

In terms of efficiency, the i8+ can clean an area up to 2000 square feet in a single cleaning cycle. For larger homes, the robot uses its Recharge and Resume feature, where it returns to the dock to recharge when its battery is low, and then continues cleaning from where it left off, ensuring no spot is missed.

Moreover, this device is equipped with smart sensors that prevent it from falling off stairs or bumping into furniture, ensuring it operates smoothly without causing any damage. It also has the ability to adjust its height to effectively clean under furniture, making sure every corner of your home is properly cleaned.

To sum it all up:

• The i8+ showcases impressive navigation and mapping abilities for systematic cleaning.
• Its 3-Stage Cleaning System and Dirt Detect Technology assure a thorough and efficient cleaning process.
• The Automatic Dirt Disposal system adds an element of convenience by eliminating frequent manual emptying.
• The Recharge and Resume feature ensures a comprehensive cleaning of larger homes.
• The smart sensors and adjustable height enhance the device's efficiency by preventing accidents and reaching hard-to-clean spots.

Overall, the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ offers a seamless, efficient, and thorough cleaning experience that sets it apart from its competitors.

Battery Life and Charging

The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ stands out for its superior battery life and charging capabilities. This section will provide an in-depth discussion on these aspects.

The Roomba Combo i8+ equipped with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery. On an average, the robot vacuum can operate for a remarkable 75 minutes on a full charge when used in the standard mode. This allows it to cover a substantial area of cleaning before needing a recharge.

Interestingly, one of the key features of this robot vacuum is its intelligent 'Recharge and Resume' functionality. When the battery gets low during a cleaning cycle, the i8+ automatically returns to its Home Base charging station. After recharging, it resumes from where it left off, ensuring that no area is left unattended. This efficient use of battery life and charging time significantly enhances the performance and user experience.

The charging time of the Roomba Combo i8+ is approximately 3 hours, which is fairly standard for robot vacuums. The vacuum's Home Base charging station is compact and easy to set up, making the charging process hassle-free.

Here's a summary of the battery life and charging features of the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+:

• Battery type: High-capacity lithium-ion
• Run time: Up to 75 minutes
• Charging time: Approximately 3 hours
• 'Recharge and Resume' feature: Yes

To maximize battery life, iRobot recommends keeping the robot vacuum on the charging station when not in use. Also, ensuring that the vacuum's path is clear of clutter can prevent unnecessary battery drain.

In the 'User Experience and Maintenance' section, we will further delve into how these features contribute to the overall user experience. However, it's worth mentioning here that the long battery life and efficient charging system of the Roomba Combo i8+ are significant contributors to its high user ratings and popularity.

Smart Home Compatibility

One of the standout features of the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is its impressive smart home compatibility. In today's interconnected world, this feature can be a game-changer for any robotic vacuum cleaner.

The i8+ is designed to seamlessly integrate with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, providing you with the convenience of voice-activated controls. You can simply ask your home assistant to start, stop, or dock the i8+ and it will obey your command. This feature makes it easy to maintain your home's cleanliness without even lifting a finger.

Moreover, iRobot has its own dedicated app, the iRobot Home App. Available for both iOS and Android devices, this app enables you to schedule cleaning sessions, set preferences and monitor the i8+'s cleaning progress from anywhere in the world. The app also provides you with maintenance alerts, such as when it's time to empty the robot's dirt disposal bin or replace its filter. This can be a handy tool for maintaining the longevity and performance of your i8+.

Beyond the typical smart home integrations, the i8+ also offers compatibility with IFTTT (If This Then That). This advanced feature allows you to create custom automations and triggers. For example, you can set your i8+ to start cleaning the moment you leave for work, ensuring you come back to a clean home.

To sum up, the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ offers:

• Voice-activated controls with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
• Remote control and monitoring through the iRobot Home App
• IFTTT compatibility for custom automations and triggers

These features make the i8+ not just a robotic vacuum cleaner, but a truly smart home device that can compliment your other connected devices perfectly. However, it's important to note that these features require constant Wi-Fi connectivity, and the experience may vary based on your internet speed and stability.

User Experience and Maintenance

Operating the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is wonderfully straightforward, thanks to the intuitive app interface and on-board controls. The iRobot Home app, available for both iOS and Android, allows you to set schedules, monitor cleaning progress, and manage cleaning preferences with ease. For those who prefer hands-on controls, the device features a clean button, a spot clean button, and a home button on the robot itself.

Maintenance is a crucial aspect of ensuring the longevity of any robot vacuum, and iRobot made this process quite user-friendly with the Roomba i8+. The robot comes equipped with a self-emptying feature for its dustbin, which is a major selling point. The device can empty its own dustbin into the Clean Base for up to 60 days, reducing the need for frequent manual emptying.

The device also has an 'Automatic Dirt Disposal' feature, which not only holds dirt and debris for up to 60 days, but also has AllergenLock™ bags that trap and seal 99% of pollen and mold allergens, ensuring a cleaner home environment. It’s important to note, however, that you'll need to replace these bags once they are full. Other maintenance tasks include occasional filter replacements and cleaning the sensors and brushes to ensure optimal performance.

Users will be pleased to know that the Roomba i8+ also has a user-friendly troubleshooting system. If the robot encounters a problem, a notification is sent directly to your phone with clear instructions on how to resolve it. This can range from simple tasks such as emptying the dustbin or cleaning the rollers, to more complex issues that may require customer support intervention.

Overall, the user experience with the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is highly positive, with its easy-to-use features and minimal maintenance requirements. The device's ability to self-empty its dustbin, paired with the robust troubleshooting system, make it an excellent choice for those seeking a hassle-free cleaning solution. Remember, however, that a certain amount of manual maintenance will always be required with robot vacuums, as it is vital to their longevity and performance.

Video by: iRobot Switzerland

Customer Support and Warranty

One of the strengths of the iRobot brand is its comprehensive customer support and warranty policy, and this is evident in their Roomba Combo i8+ offering. The company provides various channels for customer support, including phone, email, and live chat, ensuring that you get the help you need in a format that suits you best.

Customer Support
iRobot's customer support team is known for its helpfulness and responsiveness. Their live chat option provides immediate assistance during business hours, while the option to send an email or make a phone call provides alternatives for those who prefer these methods. There's also a resourceful FAQ section and a community forum on the iRobot website where you can find a wealth of information on troubleshooting, maintenance, and product use.

For customers who prefer a more hands-on approach, iRobot offers a series of instructional videos and step-by-step guides on their website. These resources cover everything from setup procedures to maintenance tasks, making it easy for you to understand and take care of your Roomba Combo i8+.

Warranty
The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ comes with a one-year warranty. This warranty covers any manufacturing defects but does not cover damage caused by misuse, such as water damage or unauthorized modification. It's important to note that the warranty is only valid if the product is purchased from iRobot or an authorized retailer.

In addition to the standard warranty, iRobot offers an extended warranty option for added peace of mind. The extended warranty provides two additional years of coverage, protecting your investment in the long run. This extended warranty must be purchased within 90 days of the original product purchase date.

Given the Roomba Combo i8+'s high-end status and price point, the standard one-year warranty might seem relatively short. However, numerous customer reviews indicate that the product is built to last, and the option for extended coverage provides additional reassurance for those who want it.

In conclusion, the customer support and warranty for the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ are strong suits of the product. Between the multiple support channels, the wealth of online resources, and the option for extended warranty coverage, you can feel confident in your purchase.

Conclusion or Verdict

The iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is a powerful, intelligent, and efficient robotic vacuum cleaner that offers excellent convenience and performance. While the initial investment may be on the higher side, the potential benefits it brings to your cleaning routine are worth considering.

In terms of cleaning efficiency, the Roomba i8+ excels in both hardwood and carpeted surfaces. Its advanced navigation system, combined with the ability to map and remember multiple floor plans, allows it to clean your home with precision and ease. However, its performance with larger debris and pet hair might be a weak point, as mentioned in the "Performance and Efficiency" section.

The design and build quality of the i8+ is impressive, with its sturdy construction and thoughtful design elements like the automatic dirt disposal feature. It does, however, come with a bulkier charging dock which might require some extra space.

While the battery life is fairly standard, the smart charging function is a definite advantage. The ability to return to its dock, recharge, and then continue cleaning from where it left off is a great feature for larger homes.

Smart home compatibility is a significant highlight of the iRobot Roomba i8+. Its compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Home, along with the comprehensive iRobot HOME app, make controlling and scheduling the robot a breeze.

The maintenance of the robot is quite straightforward, thanks to the automatic dirt disposal and washable filters. The customer support and warranty offered by iRobot are also adequate, adding to the overall positive user experience.

In summary, the iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ is a worthy investment for those seeking a convenient, reliable, and intelligent cleaning solution. It may not be perfect, but the range of features and performance it offers justifies the price tag. Therefore, for people seeking a hands-free, time-saving, and efficient cleaning tool, this robot vacuum is a strong contender.

• Pros: Advanced mapping and navigation, automatic dirt disposal, smart home compatibility, washable filters.
• Cons: Higher price point, bulkier charging dock, may struggle with larger debris and pet hair.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications