iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ Review

Summary / TL;DR

The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ is a versatile home automation device that combines vacuuming and mopping functionalities in one compact unit. It offers robust cleaning performance on various floor types, efficient navigation with smart mapping technology, and a user-friendly app for control and customization.

The device features a sleek design with premium materials, a low profile for easy access under furniture, and an integrated mop for added versatility. Its battery life allows for extended cleaning sessions, and the recharge and resume function ensures thorough cleaning coverage.

With thoughtful maintenance features and a comprehensive package including extra filters and brushes, the Roomba Combo j5+ is a reliable choice for households seeking efficient and convenient cleaning solutions.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the iRobot Roomba J7 or iRobot Roomba Combo i8+ or iRobot Roomba Combo j9+.

Introduction

The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ represents the next step in the evolution of home automation, blending advanced vacuuming and mopping functionalities into one compact unit. As household cleaning needs become more diverse, products like the Combo j5+ aim to offer a holistic solution, ensuring that floors remain spotless with minimal user intervention. This model stands out due to its combination of robust vacuuming power and efficient mopping capabilities. Designed to cater to various floor types, from hardwood to carpet, the Roomba Combo j5+ is equipped to handle day-to-day messes and more stubborn debris. The integration of these features in a single device not only saves space but also offers convenience, reducing the need for multiple cleaning gadgets.

Moreover, the Roomba Combo j5+ showcases iRobot's continued commitment to innovation. The device is packed with smart technology, which will be elaborated in the sections on Navigation and Mapping and App and Smart Features. These advancements ensure that the vacuum operates efficiently, learning the layout of your home and adjusting its cleaning patterns accordingly. In this review, we will thoroughly examine the various aspects of the Roomba Combo j5+, from its design and build quality to its cleaning performance and noise levels. By the end, you'll have a comprehensive understanding of whether this device fits your cleaning needs and lifestyle.

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Design and Build Quality

The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ strikes a balance between sleek aesthetics and robust construction. Its circular design, a hallmark of the Roomba series, is complemented by a glossy, dual-tone finish that gives it a modern look, fitting well in any home décor. The top of the unit features a clean layout with a central "Clean" button flanked by additional control buttons, ensuring ease of use.

Materials used in the build feel premium and durable. The top cover is scratch-resistant, which is a plus for homes with pets or kids. The underside of the Roomba Combo j5+ is designed for functionality, housing robust wheels and multiple brushes. The side brushes are strategically placed to reach edges and corners, ensuring a comprehensive cleaning. One standout feature in the design is the integrated mop. This addition doesn't compromise the size or agility of the vacuum but adds a layer of versatility. The mop attachment is easy to install and remove, making transitions between vacuuming and mopping seamless. A notable aspect is the low profile of the device. At just under 3.6 inches in height, it can easily slip under most furniture, ensuring those hard-to-reach spots are not neglected. This height is a sweet spot, balancing the need for a sizable dustbin while maintaining accessibility. The dustbin itself is designed for easy emptying. It features a latch mechanism that allows for quick removal and replacement. Additionally, the dustbin is washable, which aids in maintaining hygiene and reducing allergens.

The Roomba Combo j5+ also includes a docking station. This station is compact and doesn't occupy much floor space, yet it's sturdy enough to ensure the vacuum docks securely every time. The design of the dock complements the vacuum, maintaining the aesthetic appeal. Overall, the Roomba Combo j5+ impresses with its thoughtful design and solid build quality. It's clear that a lot of attention has been paid to both form and function, making it a dependable addition to any household cleaning arsenal. For more details about the design, you can visit the official iRobot product page.

Cleaning Performance

The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ delivers impressive cleaning performance across various types of flooring. Whether it’s carpets, hardwood, or tiles, this robot vacuum adapts well, making sure no dirt or debris is left behind.

Thanks to its advanced Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes, it can handle different textures without getting tangled, which is particularly beneficial for homes with pets. The vacuum’s suction power is noteworthy, especially for its size. It efficiently picks up both fine dust and larger debris.

The Power-Lifting Suction technology ensures that even embedded dirt in carpets is effectively removed. Compared to previous models, the j5+ shows a marked improvement in lifting potential, making it a strong contender for thorough cleaning. An interesting feature is its automatic dirt detection. The Roomba Combo j5+ can identify high-traffic areas and adjust its cleaning intensity accordingly. This ensures that places like entryways and living rooms get extra attention, while less trafficked areas are cleaned more gently. This model also incorporates a combination of vacuuming and mopping.

The integrated water tank and mop allow it to sweep and mop simultaneously, which adds a layer of cleanliness. For instance, after vacuuming up dust, it can immediately mop up any lingering residues, leaving your floors spotless. The mop can be controlled via the app to release the right amount of water, avoiding over-saturation.

Another standout aspect is its Edge-Sweeping Brush. This brush is specifically designed to clean edges and corners where dust tends to accumulate. It rotates at an angle to sweep debris into the vacuum’s path, ensuring those tricky spots aren't missed. The Roomba Combo j5+ not only performs well on various surfaces but also efficiently navigates around furniture and obstacles.

For further insights into how it manages to do this, check the Navigation and Mapping section. Overall, the cleaning performance of the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ is robust, making it a reliable option for keeping your home pristine with minimal effort on your part.

Navigation and Mapping

The *iRobot Roomba Combo j5+* impressively navigates your home with advanced mapping technology. It utilizes a combination of *vSLAM* (Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) and *PrecisionVision Navigation* to create detailed maps of your space. This allows the robot to efficiently maneuver around obstacles and ensure thorough cleaning. One standout feature is the *Smart Mapping* capability. This enables the robot to recognize different rooms and remember their layouts. You can even set up *Keep Out Zones* and *Clean Zones* via the app, ensuring the vacuum only cleans specific areas you want it to, and avoids areas you don’t. The Roomba j5+ also excels at handling complex environments. It can navigate around furniture legs, pet bowls, and other everyday objects with ease.

The Cliff Detect sensors prevent the robot from falling down stairs, providing extra peace of mind. During cleaning sessions, the robot's path planning is efficient, covering the entire floor systematically. If the battery runs low mid-clean, the j5+ is smart enough to return to its base, recharge, and then resume cleaning where it left off. For homes with pets, the *Pet Mode* is particularly useful. This mode allows the robot to identify and avoid pet waste, preventing unwanted messes. In summary, the *navigation and mapping* capabilities of the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ are robust and user-friendly, offering significant control and customization options through the app. If you’re looking for a thoughtful and capable navigation system in a robot vacuum, this model stands out.

App and Smart Features

The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ boasts a range of smart features that set it apart from many other robotic vacuums on the market. Its integration with the iRobot Home app provides a seamless user experience, allowing you to control and monitor the cleaning process from your smartphone. With the app, you can schedule cleaning sessions, customize cleaning preferences, and even select specific rooms for the Roomba to clean. This level of control ensures that your home gets cleaned exactly how and when you want, without any hassle.

One of the standout features is the Roomba Combo j5+'s ability to integrate with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This means you can start, stop, or dock the vacuum using simple voice commands, making it incredibly convenient to use, especially when you’re busy with other tasks. The app also provides detailed cleaning reports, showing where the vacuum has cleaned and any areas it might have missed. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring that high-traffic areas in your home are thoroughly cleaned. 

Additionally, the app keeps track of maintenance schedules, reminding you when it's time to clean the filter, empty the dustbin, or replace parts. For those who like to stay connected, the Roomba Combo j5+ supports Wi-Fi connectivity, ensuring that you can control it from virtually anywhere. Whether you’re at work or on vacation, you can easily check the status of your vacuum and make adjustments as needed. Another impressive feature is the ability to create "Keep Out Zones" within the app. This allows you to designate areas where the Roomba should not go, which is especially handy for rooms with delicate items or areas that tend to get cluttered. Overall, the smart features of the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ enhance its functionality and ease of use, making it a versatile and reliable addition to any home. The combination of app control, voice assistant integration, and advanced mapping capabilities ensures that you have a comprehensive cleaning solution at your fingertips.

Battery Life and Charging

The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ comes equipped with a robust battery that ensures it can tackle extensive cleaning sessions without frequent returns to the charging dock. On a full charge, the Roomba Combo j5+ offers approximately 75 minutes of cleaning time, which is ample for most households. This duration can vary slightly based on the selected cleaning mode and the type of flooring. Charging the Roomba Combo j5+ is straightforward and efficient. When the battery runs low, the vacuum autonomously navigates back to its charging dock, ensuring it’s always ready for the next cleaning task. A full battery recharge takes around 3 hours, which is fairly standard in the industry. The charging dock itself is compact and can be placed discreetly in any corner of your home.

One standout feature is the vacuum’s Recharge and Resume capability. If the battery depletes mid-cleaning, the Roomba Combo j5+ returns to the dock, recharges, and then resumes cleaning right where it left off. This feature ensures that the entire floor is thoroughly cleaned, even if the initial battery life wasn’t sufficient to cover the entire area. For users concerned about energy consumption, it’s worth noting that the Roomba Combo j5+ is designed to be energy efficient. While on the dock, it draws minimal power once fully charged, which is a thoughtful touch for eco-conscious consumers. The combination of a reliable battery life, efficient charging, and smart features like Recharge and Resume makes the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ a dependable choice for maintaining clean floors with minimal manual intervention.

Maintenance and Upkeep

The *iRobot Roomba Combo j5+* has been designed with user convenience in mind, especially when it comes to maintenance and upkeep. Keeping your robot vacuum in good condition ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Dustbin and Filters: The dustbin is easily accessible from the side of the unit and can be quickly removed and emptied. Regularly cleaning the filter is essential to maintain strong suction. The Roomba Combo j5+ uses a high-efficiency filter that should be replaced every two months or as needed. Brushes and Rollers: The main brush and side brushes play a pivotal role in the cleaning process. Both are easy to detach and clean. The main brush should be checked for tangled hair and debris, while the side brushes can occasionally be rinsed under water. Remember to let them dry completely before reattaching.

Mop Maintenance: The mopping module requires attention as well. The water tank should be emptied and rinsed after each use to prevent mold and odor buildup. The mop cloth pads are machine washable, but it’s a good practice to rinse them after each use and let them air dry.

Regular Checkups: Periodically inspect the sensors and wheels for any dust accumulation. A soft cloth or a small brush can help keep the sensors free from dirt, ensuring efficient navigation and mapping.

Software Updates: iRobot releases software updates that can enhance the features and performance of your Roomba. The app will notify you when updates are available. Keeping the firmware updated is crucial for the best user experience.

Replacement Parts: iRobot provides recommended replacement schedules for parts like filters, brushes, and mop pads. These parts can be purchased directly from iRobot's website or authorized retailers. It’s a good idea to keep spare parts on hand for seamless maintenance. In summary, the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ makes upkeep straightforward with its modular design and easily accessible components. Regular maintenance ensures that the vacuum continues to perform at its best, delivering clean floors with minimal effort on your part.

Noise Levels

One standout aspect of the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ is its noise level during operation. Robot vacuums can sometimes be intrusive with their sound, especially in homes with open floor plans or hardwood floors that can amplify noise. However, the Roomba Combo j5+ strikes a commendable balance between power and quietness. In its default cleaning mode, the Roomba Combo j5+ emits around 60-65 decibels. To put that in perspective, this is roughly equivalent to a normal conversation at home, which allows for a relatively undisturbed environment. Whether you're working from home or enjoying a movie, the vacuum hums along without causing major interruptions. When switched to its high-power mode, particularly when tackling carpets and rugs, the noise level does increase, reaching up to 70 decibels. Nonetheless, this is still manageable and less disruptive compared to traditional upright vacuums. It's worth noting that the higher noise levels are generally short-lived, as the Roomba Combo j5+ quickly adapts to different surfaces and adjusts its cleaning power accordingly.

For those sensitive to noise, the schedule feature in the companion app (which you'll find more about in the App and Smart Features section) is a handy tool. You can set cleaning cycles for times when you're out of the house, ensuring that your living space stays clean without any auditory disturbance. Overall, the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ performs admirably in maintaining a quieter operation compared to many of its competitors. By offering powerful cleaning capabilities without compromising on noise levels, it stands out as a reliable choice for those who prefer a less noisy cleaning assistant.

Video by: Vacuum Wars

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+, you will find a well-organized assortment of components designed to get you up and running swiftly. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

• The Roomba Combo j5+ Robot Vacuum: The main unit itself, featuring its sleek and modern design.
• Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal: A charging and self-emptying station that minimizes your maintenance needs.
• Extra High-Efficiency Filter: An additional filter to ensure optimal air quality and performance.
• Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes: These brushes are effective at picking up different types of debris from various floor types.
• Edge-Sweeping Brush: Specifically designed to clean along walls and corners.
• Power Cord: Necessary to connect the Clean Base to a power source.
• User Manual and Documentation: This includes a quick-start guide and detailed instructions for setting up and using your new robot vacuum. The packaging is thoughtfully arranged to ensure that each item is protected during transit, making the initial setup process straightforward. The inclusion of the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal is a noteworthy feature, as it significantly reduces the frequency of manual emptying. Overall, the contents provide everything you need to start using your Roomba Combo j5+ right out of the box. The extra filter and brushes offer a bit of future-proofing, ensuring that you have replacements on hand when needed. This comprehensive package highlights iRobot's commitment to user convenience and product longevity.

Conclusion

The iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ is a compelling addition to the world of robot vacuum cleaners. It offers a well-rounded package with solid cleaning performance and reliable navigation and mapping capabilities. The dual functionality of vacuuming and mopping adds an extra layer of convenience, making it a suitable option for busy households. One of the standout features is its user-friendly app and robust smart features, which provide a seamless experience for managing cleaning schedules and customizing preferences. The battery life is quite reasonable, ensuring that the device can cover substantial areas before requiring a recharge. The automatic dirt disposal also minimizes the need for frequent manual intervention, making maintenance easier.

In terms of design and build quality, the Roomba Combo j5+ is both aesthetically pleasing and durable, fitting well into modern home settings. However, it’s essential to note that while the noise levels are manageable, they might still be noticeable during quiet hours. The initial setup is straightforward, and the package includes all necessary accessories to get started right away. While it excels in many areas, its price point is on the higher side, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. Overall, the Roomba Combo j5+ strikes a nice balance between performance, convenience, and smart features, making it a worthy investment for anyone looking to streamline their home cleaning routine.

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Pros & cons

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Technical specifications