Roomba 890 vs 960: Who Gives Ultimate Satisfaction?

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Written by: Ryan Sneltzer
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Are you considering investing in a robot vacuum to make your life a little easier? With so many options available, it can be difficult to decide which model is right for you. Today, we’ll be comparing two popular models from iRobot – the Roomba 890 and Roomba 960 – to help you make an informed decision. Let’s dive into the key differences, features, and performance factors of these smart home devices.

iRobot Roomba 890 Robot Vacuum


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Roomba 890 vs 960: Key Differences

When it comes to the Roomba 890 and 960, there are several key differences to consider, including design, navigation and mapping capabilities, battery life, suction power, and connectivity features.

Design and Dimensions

Both the Roomba 890 and 960 are designed with a sleek, round shape that allows them to easily navigate around furniture. The Roomba 890 has a diameter of 13.9 inches and a height of 3.6 inches, while the Roomba 960 is slightly larger with a diameter of 13.8 inches and a height of 3.6 inches. In terms of weight, the Roomba 890 weighs 8.4 pounds, and the Roomba 960 weighs 8.6 pounds.

Navigation and Mapping Capabilities

The Roomba 890 uses iRobot’s iAdapt navigation technology, which enables the robot to navigate your home using a suite of sensors. The Roomba 960, on the other hand, uses the more advanced iAdapt 2.0 system, which includes a camera for visual navigation. This advanced system allows the Roomba 960 to create a map of your home, ensuring more efficient cleaning and better room coverage.

Battery Life and Runtime

The Roomba 890 runs for up to 60 minutes on a single charge, while the Roomba 960 can run for up to 75 minutes. Both models come with a “recharge and resume” feature, which allows them to automatically return to their charging dock when the battery is low and then continue cleaning from where they stopped after recharging.

We run a full iRobot Roomba 960 Review – Check it out now

Suction Power and Cleaning Performance

The Roomba 890 features AeroForce technology with 5x the air power of previous models. The Roomba 960, however, has an even more powerful motor, providing 10x the air power for improved suction and cleaning performance. Both models can handle various floor types, including carpets, hardwood, and tile. The Roomba 960’s more powerful motor means it is better equipped to tackle dirt and debris on thicker carpets.

Connectivity and Smart Home Integration

Both the Roomba 890 and 960 offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to control the robot vacuum using the iRobot HOME app. This app provides access to scheduling, cleaning preferences, and maintenance updates. Additionally, both models are compatible with popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, so you can control your Roomba with voice commands.

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, the Roomba 890 is typically more affordable than the Roomba 960. As of my knowledge cutoff date in September 2021, the Roomba 890’s price generally ranges from $350 to $500, while the Roomba 960’s price ranges from $450 to $650. However, these prices may vary depending on the retailer, discounts, or promotions. It’s essential to compare prices from different sources to find the best deal on your preferred model.

iRobot Roomba 890 Robot Vacuum


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Final Verdict: Which Roomba Model Is Right for You?

When deciding between the Roomba 890 vs 960, consider your budget, cleaning needs, and the importance of advanced mapping capabilities. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with solid performance, the Roomba 890 may be the better choice.

However, if you’re willing to invest in a more advanced robot vacuum with superior cleaning performance and navigation, the Roomba 960 is worth the extra cost. Ultimately, both models offer excellent features and will make a valuable addition to any smart home.

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Ryan Sneltzer