In the ever-evolving landscape of smart home gadgets, robot vacuums have become indispensable companions for maintaining a clean living space. In this article, I will put two popular Roomba models head-to-head: the Roomba i4 vs 675. According to my experience, the winner is the Roomba i4.
The Roomba i4 emerges as the winner. With its longer battery life, advanced navigation capabilities, and versatile control options, it offers a more comprehensive and efficient cleaning experience.
The Roomba 675 is not without its merits, especially for those who prioritize affordability and simplicity. This machine still performs fairly well, and I love how quiet it is.
Roomba i4 vs 675: Comparison Chart
Roomba i4 vs 675: Differences
After considering the pros and cons of both models, I conclude that the Roomba i4 wins 4:0 and ties 1 against the Roomba 675 thanks to its advanced navigation technology and cleaning performance. For more specifics, please read the breakdown below.
Cleaning Performance
The winner: Roomba i4
Performance on multi-surface
Both the Roomba i4 and 675 can work on many types of surfaces, including hardwood floors, laminate floors, tile floors, and carpeting.
During my testing of these machines on hard floors, I observed that these machines have no problem picking up small and bulky debris like crumbs and cereal. However, they struggled to collect heavier particles like sand and tended to push larger objects like popcorn instead of picking them up. However, the i4, thanks to its navigation capabilities and dual rubber brush rolls, moves smoothly and cleans faster.
Overall, their performance on hard floors was comparable. However, the i4 model stands out due to its superior navigation abilities and dual rubber brushroll, resulting in faster, more accurate, and smoother cleaning.
If you plan on using these machines on carpets, keep in mind that they work best on low-pile carpets. High-pile carpets may be challenging for them to move on, and they can only clean the surface of the carpet, lacking the ability to provide deep cleaning. As a result, if you have many carpets in your home, you may still need help from a traditional vacuum cleaner.
Pet hair performance
These two machines all come with a dual brush roll system, which is advertised as avoiding getting tangled. However, in my experience, these devices quite struggle with long hair wrapping around the rollers while trying to pick it up.
When you compare the design of the dual brush rolls of both vacuums, you can easily see the difference. The Roomba 675 has a beater brush that crushes debris, which makes it easier for the bristle brush to pick it up. In contrast, the Roomba i4 has two removable rubber brushrolls. The i4 has a more advanced brushroll design, making it easier to detangle hair than the Roomba 675’s bristle brush.
If you are a pet owner, I recommend the i4 because of its easier-to-clean brush roll and HEPA filter, which the 675 model lacks.
Design & Usability
The winner: Roomba i4
Build quality
The Roomba i4 is a high-quality robot vacuum that is built to last and has a premium feel. Its enhanced rubberized brushrolls improve cleaning efficiency, making it functional and durable. Additionally, it is equipped with advanced sensors and navigation technology, which contribute to its overall superior build. It is often compared to iRobot’s top-tier robot vacuums in the i-series and is considered an upgraded version.
On the other hand, the Roomba 675 is considered an entry-level robot vacuum in iRobot’s lineup. It is well-constructed when compared to other vacuums in its price range. However, it may not have the same premium materials and components as the i4 model. Its design is simpler, and it lacks some advanced features that contribute to the i4’s durability and effectiveness. The brushrolls are basic, and the sensors are not as advanced. Nevertheless, it is still a reliable option for those on a budget or those who do not need advanced features.
Dimensions and weight
Based on its weight and dimensions, the Roomba i4 is heavier than its opponent, but this is due to its advanced features, powerful battery, and superior cleaning technology. While it may not be the most portable option, its weight typically doesn’t affect its performance.
On the other hand, the Roomba 675 is lighter and a bit more compact. It usually weighs around 6.77 pounds and has dimensions of about 13 inches in diameter and 3.7 inches in height. The lighter weight and smaller size make it easier to handle, especially in smaller homes or apartments where space may be limited.
I rate that these two machines are of similar size and are both relatively compact. Their compact size makes it easy for them to navigate between furniture and fit under sofas.
Battery and charging
The Roomba i4 boasts a battery life ranging from 75 to 100 minutes. This longer runtime is made possible by its lithium-ion battery and sophisticated battery management system, making the i4 a solid choice for larger homes or more extensive cleaning needs. Meanwhile, the Roomba 675 also uses a lithium-ion battery, but it offers a shorter battery life of around 60 to 90 minutes.
| Roomba i4 | Roomba 675 | |
| Battery life | 75–100 mins | 60–90 mins |
| Recharge time | 2 hours | 2 hours |
Both machines all include a ‘recharge-and-resume’ feature, which allows the robot to automatically return to its dock to recharge and then continue cleaning where it left off.
Noise
In this aspect, both the Roomba i4 and Roomba 675 fall within a moderate range. Overall, these two devices are pretty quiet, but there are some differences. The Roomba i4 tends to have a noise level ranging from about 64 to 68 decibels. This slight increase in noise is often due to its more powerful motor and advanced cleaning capabilities.
As for the Roomba 675, it generally operates within a noise level range of 61 to 65 decibels. It might be a bit quieter, particularly on carpeted surfaces.
It’s important to note that these are just my personal observations, as the noise level of the machine is dependent on the space the device operates in. To me, these machines are fairly quiet. I can comfortably talk, answer the phone, or watch TV while it is cleaning. The noise doesn’t bother me at all.
Navigation
When it comes to navigation and obstacle avoidance, the Roomba i4 and Roomba 675 offer different levels of sophistication.
The Roomba i4 has an advanced navigation system that includes adaptive algorithms and visual aids to map the cleaning area. This allows the i4 to follow more efficient cleaning paths in straight lines while detecting dirt areas and stairs with greater accuracy. This results in more thorough cleaning and allows the robot to complete its task more quickly.
On the other hand, the Roomba 675 utilizes a more basic form of navigation, mostly relying on a series of sensors to move randomly around the home. Compared to the i4, this device’s navigation is generally less precise, although it can detect and avoid large obstacles or stairs. This means it may take longer to clean the same area and may not be as effective at detecting obstacles or navigating through densely furnished rooms.
Both of these robots are equipped with cliff sensors to navigate rough surfaces and bumpers on the sides to prevent collisions. However, the i4 model stands out with an additional floor tracking sensor that enables it to accurately map and navigate the floor. This feature is not available on the Roomba 675.
Control
The winner: Roomba i4
These two machines offer a range of control options, but there are some differences that make one more versatile than the other in terms of the user interface and control mechanisms.
Along with the physical buttons on the device itself, both of them are also compatible with the iRobot Home app. However, the i4 allows for a greater range of control features like scheduling, custom cleaning preferences, and detailed cleaning reports.
In addition, they also offer voice control compatibility, enabling users to integrate them with smart home ecosystems like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant for hands-free operation.
In terms of ease of control, both models are easy to use, but the i4 offers more control options and a more advanced app interface, making it a more flexible and customizable option. However, some users may find it overwhelming, preferring a simpler experience. The Roomba 675, with its straightforward controls, may be a better choice for those who want a “plug-and-play” experience without extensive customization.
Cleaning & Maintenance
Tie
Both the Roomba i4 and Roomba 675 use a dustbin to store the dust and debris they pick up. Their dustbins all have a capacity of 300 ml, which is neither big nor small when compared to other robot vacuums. One of the benefits of these dustbins is that they are easy to disassemble, empty, and clean.
Both machines contain filters inside the dustbin, but they use different types of filters. If you suffer from allergies or respiratory problems and require a machine with a HEPA filter, then I would recommend purchasing the Roomba i4. Conversely, the Roomba 675 has a basic filter and does not filter the air as effectively.
Both machines have non-washable filters that need to be replaced every two months. To clean them, gently remove them and use a specialized brush.
In addition to cleaning the dustbin and filters, other parts of the machine also need to be cleaned periodically to ensure the device’s lifespan. Luckily, these tasks are easy to do, and the parts that need cleaning can be easily taken apart. Just consult the user manual for instructions and follow the steps given.
Other Features
The winner: Roomba i4
What makes the Roomba i4 stand out from the Roomba 675 is its Imprint® Smart Maps technology, which allows the robot to map the house for better navigation. With the iRobot app’s mapping feature, you can program specific room cleaning and schedule daily cleaning.
Although the Roomba 675 still has a schedule function for each day of the week, it is still more limited than the i4. Most importantly, this device does not include a mapping function like its opponent.
Quick Rundown Of Roomba i4
- Powerful pick up and powerful performance
- Smart navigation gets the job done
- Goes where it's needed, avoids where it's not
- Learns your life, listens to your voice
- Ideal for homes with pets
Quick Rundown Of Roomba 675
- Capacity volume - .6 liter. Works with Alexa for voice control (Alexa device sold separately)
- Clean and schedule from anywhere with the iRobot HOME App; compatible with Amazon Alexa and the Google Assistant
- Patented 3-Stage Cleaning System and Dual Multi-Surface Brushes pick up everything from small particles to large debris
- Full suite of intelligent sensors guide the robot under and around furniture to help thoroughly clean your floors
- Auto-Adjust Cleaning Head automatically adapts its height to effectively clean carpets and hard floors
Product videos
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References:
- Roomba i4: https://www.irobot.com/en_US/roomba_i4/I415020.html
- Roomba 675: https://www.irobot.com/en_US/roomba-vacuuming/robot-vacuum-irobot-roomba-675/R675020.html
Richard B. Schmidt is a prominent figure in the vacuum cleaner industry, boasting over 15 years of expertise. Armed with a Robotics Engineering degree from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Consumer Science from Harvard, his unique blend of technical knowledge and consumer insights positions him as a sought-after authority in vacuum cleaner evaluation. Richard’s career began at Dyson, where he contributed to the development of innovative vacuum models. Transitioning to advocacy and reviews, he co-founded the first Vacuum-focused blog in 2008, offering comprehensive analysis and user guides for various vacuum cleaners. In 2020, he founded RoboMop.net, providing ongoing insights through columns and buyer’s guides.