iRobot Roomba i7+ Review – Still the Best Robot Vacuum?
When the iRobot Roomba i7+ hit the market, it changed how people viewed robotic cleaning. Known for its automatic dirt disposal system and smart mapping technology, it offered a glimpse into a truly hands-free cleaning experience. Years later, with new contenders like the j7+, S9+, and Roborock S8 in the market, many homeowners wonder: Is the Roomba i7+ still the best robot vacuum in 2025? Let’s dive deep into its design, features, performance, and value to find out whether it remains a top contender in the smart home cleaning space.
A Quick Overview of iRobot’s Legacy
iRobot has been a trailblazer in the world of robotics and smart home technology for more than two decades. Founded in 1990 by a group of MIT roboticists, the company initially focused on creating advanced robots for exploration, defense, and research. It wasn’t until 2002 that iRobot entered the consumer market with the first-ever Roomba robot vacuum, forever changing how people approached home cleaning. Since then, iRobot has continued to refine its products, combining AI-driven intelligence, efficient design, and user-friendly automation to make daily life more convenient. The iRobot Roomba i7+ was a significant milestone in this journey, bringing self-emptying capabilities and smart mapping technology to the forefront — innovations that set new standards for the entire industry.
Key Highlights of iRobot’s Legacy
- Founded in 1990 by MIT roboticists with a focus on intelligent robotics and automation.
- Developed military and exploration robots like PackBot and Seaglider before entering home robotics.
- Launched the first Roomba in 2002, revolutionizing home cleaning with autonomous navigation.
- Over the years, enhanced Roombas with stronger suction, sensors, and smart navigation systems.
- The Roomba i7+ (2018) was a breakthrough model introducing Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal.
- Integrated Imprint Smart Mapping, enabling multi-floor memory and room-specific cleaning.
- Continues to lead the industry with cutting-edge AI, reliable performance, and ease of use.
What Makes the i7+ Stand Out?
The iRobot Roomba i7+ stands out as one of the most intelligent and user-centric robot vacuums ever made. It was among the first to deliver a truly hands-free cleaning experience, capable of emptying its own bin and memorizing multiple floor plans for targeted cleaning. Its technology-focused design allowed it to outperform many competitors that still relied on random cleaning patterns or manual intervention. The i7+ combined power, precision, and autonomy, making it ideal for busy households and pet owners who value convenience without sacrificing performance.
Unique Features That Set the i7+ Apart
- Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal: Automatically empties the dustbin into a sealed bag, holding up to 60 days of debris.
- Imprint Smart Mapping: Learns your home layout, stores multiple maps, and allows customized room cleaning.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant for hands-free commands.
- Adaptive Navigation System: Uses vSLAM technology to clean efficiently in straight, logical lines.
- Smart Recharge and Resume: Automatically recharges mid-clean and continues where it left off.
- Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes: Adjust and flex to stay in constant contact with floors, improving dirt pickup.
- Power-Lifting Suction: 10x stronger suction compared to early Roomba models for deeper cleaning.
Design and Build Quality
The iRobot Roomba i7+ showcases a blend of elegant design and durable engineering. Its compact, low-profile body allows it to reach under furniture and tight spaces effortlessly. The circular design remains classic to the Roomba line, but it’s enhanced with a premium matte finish and intuitive buttons that make operation simple and stylish. The Clean Base station, while larger than a typical charging dock, is built to complement modern interiors — both visually and functionally.
Design and Build Highlights
- Sleek Circular Form Factor: Easily navigates under sofas, beds, and cabinets.
- Premium Materials: Built from high-grade, scratch-resistant plastic for long-term durability.
- Clean Base Dock: Acts as both a charging station and debris collector, reducing clutter and manual work.
- Modern Aesthetic: Smooth matte top with touch-sensitive controls and LED indicators.
- Reinforced Bumper Protection: Prevents damage from accidental collisions with furniture.
- Lightweight Yet Sturdy: Balances portability with robust internal components
Setup and Smart Mapping Technology
Setting up the iRobot Roomba i7+ is a quick and effortless process, designed for users of all tech levels. From unboxing to the first clean, the process typically takes under 10 minutes. Once the vacuum is connected to your Wi-Fi network through the iRobot Home App, it automatically begins creating a detailed map of your home using its vSLAM navigation system (Visual Simultaneous Localization and Mapping). The app walks you through each step clearly, ensuring even first-time users can get their Roomba up and running without confusion. Within a few cleaning sessions, the i7+ learns your home’s layout and optimizes its cleaning paths for greater accuracy and efficiency.
Simple Setup Process
- Quick Installation: From unboxing to first clean, setup takes just minutes.
- Wi-Fi Connection: Connects easily to 2.4GHz or 5GHz Wi-Fi networks.
- App Guidance: The iRobot Home App offers step-by-step prompts and visuals.
- Smart Mapping Start: Begins scanning rooms using built-in cameras and sensors immediately.
- Automatic Learning: The more it cleans, the smarter its routes become.
- Multi-Floor Support: Saves up to 10 different floor plans—perfect for multi-story homes.
Imprint Smart Mapping Explained
The Imprint Smart Mapping feature is one of the i7+’s most intelligent capabilities, making it truly stand apart from standard robot vacuums. This technology allows the device to map and memorize your home, identify individual rooms, and let you label them through the app. Once mapped, you can create customized cleaning zones—such as “Kitchen” or “Living Room”—and schedule specific cleaning routines for each. Over time, the i7+ becomes more efficient, learning your habits and preferences, such as which areas get dirty more often or what time you prefer cleaning to start.
Imprint Smart Mapping Highlights
- Custom Room Labeling: Name and save rooms in the app for easy control.
- Zone Cleaning: Clean specific areas or rooms on demand.
- Adaptive Intelligence: Learns room layouts and cleaning patterns over time.
- Smart Scheduling: Schedule cleaning times for individual rooms or entire floors.
- Map Customization: Create “Keep Out Zones” to prevent the vacuum from entering sensitive areas.
- Multiple Map Storage: Supports multiple maps for multi-level homes.
- Visual Mapping Precision: Uses camera-based navigation for accurate, real-time mapping.
Integration with Smart Home Ecosystem
The i7+ fits seamlessly into any smart home setup, offering powerful compatibility with major voice assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. This integration enables true hands-free control — you can simply say, “Alexa, ask Roomba to clean the kitchen,” and it will get to work immediately. The i7+ also integrates with smart home routines, so you can automate cleaning schedules around your lifestyle. For instance, it can start vacuuming automatically when you leave home or after your morning coffee routine.
Smart Home Integration Features
- Voice Control: Fully compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant.
- Automation Routines: Sync with smart home systems like IFTTT or Alexa Routines.
- Hands-Free Commands: Start, stop, or schedule cleaning using simple voice instructions.
- Real-Time Notifications: Get cleaning status updates through the iRobot Home app.
- Remote Access: Control your Roomba from anywhere in the world via your smartphone.
- Smart Home Synergy: Works alongside other smart devices, like thermostats and lighting systems, for automated cleaning experiences.
Cleaning Performance and Suction Power
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is designed for powerful, efficient, and adaptive cleaning across all types of flooring. Its dual multi-surface rubber brushes maintain constant contact with the floor, making it highly effective at picking up everything from fine dust and crumbs to larger debris and pet hair. The vacuum’s Power-Lifting Suction delivers ten times more air power than earlier Roomba models, ensuring a deep and thorough clean every time. Additionally, the i7+ intelligently adjusts suction strength depending on the floor type, optimizing performance while conserving energy.
Deep Cleaning Capabilities
- Dual Rubber Brushes: Stay in contact with both hard floors and carpets for optimal pickup.
- Power-Lifting Suction: 10x more suction than the Roomba 600 series for deeper cleaning.
- Edge-Sweeping Brush: Captures dirt and dust along walls and corners efficiently.
- Auto-Adjust Cleaning Head: Detects floor type and adapts height for better suction.
- Efficient Debris Pickup: Handles everything from pet hair to cereal without clogging.
- Consistent Coverage: Systematic cleaning pattern ensures no area is missed.
Carpet vs. Hard Floor Performance
On hard floors, the i7+ glides smoothly, picking up even the smallest dust particles with minimal noise. When it transitions to carpeted areas, it automatically increases suction power to extract embedded dirt, pet dander, and allergens trapped in fibers. This adaptive performance makes it a strong choice for homes with a mix of flooring types.
Performance Highlights
- Hard Floor Excellence: Leaves wood, vinyl, and tile spotless after one or two passes.
- Carpet Boost Mode: Increases suction automatically on thick carpets.
- Pet Hair Champion: Effortlessly removes hair and fur without tangling.
- Allergy-Friendly: High-efficiency filter captures 99% of dust, pollen, and allergens.
- Seamless Transitions: Moves between surfaces without stopping or losing suction power.
Dirt Detection and Adaptive Cleaning Algorithms
The i7+ is equipped with Dirt Detect™ Technology, which uses acoustic and optical sensors to identify areas that need extra attention — such as high-traffic zones or dirt-prone corners. Once detected, the Roomba concentrates its cleaning power on these areas until it senses that the dirt has been removed. This feature ensures maximum efficiency, allowing the vacuum to focus on what matters most.
Dirt Detection Advantages
- Smart Sensors: Detect dirtier areas for targeted cleaning.
- Adaptive Algorithms: Adjust suction and pathing based on debris level.
- Efficient Cleaning Loops: Repeats passes in dirty spots until clean.
- High-Traffic Optimization: Perfect for entryways, kitchens, and hallways.
- Energy-Saving Design: Avoids unnecessary re-cleaning of already clean areas.
- Enhanced Clean Consistency: Provides balanced results across the entire home.
Automatic Dirt Disposal – The Clean Base Advantage
One of the defining features that truly separates the iRobot Roomba i7+ from conventional robot vacuums is its Automatic Dirt Disposal system, also known as the Clean Base. This innovation transformed how homeowners interact with robotic vacuums by eliminating one of the most tedious chores — emptying the dustbin after every clean. Instead, the i7+ can clean your home multiple times before you ever have to think about dirt disposal again.
How the Self-Emptying Bin Works
Once the Roomba i7+ finishes a cleaning session, it automatically returns to its Clean Base station, which doubles as both a charging dock and a vacuum disposal system. The Clean Base uses powerful suction to pull debris from the Roomba’s internal bin into a sealed, disposable bag that can hold up to 60 days’ worth of dust, dirt, and pet hair. This process takes only a few seconds and is entirely hands-free.
Key Points on the Clean Base Functionality
- Hands-Free Operation: The Roomba empties its bin automatically after each cleaning session.
- High-Capacity Bags: Each bag can hold debris from about 30–60 cleaning cycles, depending on home size.
- Sealed Design: Traps allergens and dust, making it ideal for people with allergies or asthma.
- Hygienic Disposal: Simply remove and discard the bag when full—no exposure to dust.
- Smart Communication: The Roomba alerts you via the app when the Clean Base bag needs replacement.
- Dual Purpose: Serves as both a charging station and debris collector, saving space and effort.
Real-Life Convenience and Maintenance Benefits
For busy families, professionals, and allergy sufferers, the Clean Base feature is a genuine game changer. It drastically reduces maintenance needs, transforming the Roomba i7+ into a true “set it and forget it” cleaning assistant. There’s no need to empty the bin daily, bend over, or come into contact with allergens—just replace the disposable bag every couple of months.
Benefits of the Clean Base System
- Time-Saving: Reduces manual maintenance to just a few minutes every 6–8 weeks.
- Allergy-Friendly: Keeps allergens contained in a sealed bag, preventing airborne dust.
- Low Effort: Perfect for users who prefer minimal cleaning involvement.
- Consistent Cleaning: Maintains optimal suction performance by emptying itself automatically.
- Smart Alerts: Sends maintenance reminders and bag replacement notifications through the app.
- Hygienic and Mess-Free: Ideal for pet owners and allergy-prone households.
Battery Life and Charging Efficiency
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is designed for both efficiency and endurance, striking a strong balance between cleaning power and battery conservation. Equipped with a high-capacity lithium-ion battery, it delivers a runtime of around 75 minutes per charge, which is more than enough for most small and medium-sized homes. For lighter tasks, users can activate Eco Mode to extend runtime, while Performance Mode maximizes suction for tougher messes, especially on carpets and rugs.
Runtime Performance on Different Modes
- Standard Mode: Up to 75 minutes of runtime on a single charge.
- Eco Mode: Conserves power for extended runtime, ideal for quick maintenance cleans.
- Performance Mode: Boosts suction for deep cleans but reduces runtime slightly.
- Smart Charging Logic: Adjusts battery use dynamically based on cleaning area size.
- Efficient Power Distribution: Automatically balances suction and navigation performance for longer cleaning cycles.
Smart Recharge and Resume Feature
The Recharge and Resume capability is one of the i7+’s most intelligent features, ensuring that large cleaning jobs are completed without interruption. When the battery runs low mid-clean, the Roomba automatically returns to the Clean Base, recharges itself, and then resumes cleaning right where it left off. This eliminates the need for user intervention and guarantees thorough, wall-to-wall coverage.
Recharge and Resume Highlights
- Automated Power Management: The robot handles recharging and resuming automatically.
- Precision Memory Mapping: Resumes cleaning from the exact point of interruption.
- Efficient Energy Use: Avoids redundant cleaning or battery wastage.
- Ideal for Large Homes: Perfect for multi-room cleaning sessions.
- Set-and-Forget Functionality: Enables continuous, unattended cleaning cycles.
Noise Level and Usability
Noise level plays a big role in the comfort and practicality of a robot vacuum, and the iRobot Roomba i7+ strikes a solid balance between quiet operation and strong suction performance. During cleaning, it operates at around 58–63 decibels — similar to the hum of a conversation or a running dishwasher. This makes it quiet enough to run during work hours, phone calls, or even when watching TV. The only noticeable spike in noise occurs when the Clean Base empties debris, which lasts only a few seconds.
Quiet Cleaning Operation
- Low Noise Output: Operates at 58–63 dB, ideal for everyday household environments.
- Quieter Than Older Models: Improved motor insulation minimizes sound.
- Non-Disruptive Cleaning: Suitable for day or night use.
- Brief Noise Spike: Slightly louder only during the self-emptying phase.
- Perfect for Shared Spaces: Can operate while people are sleeping, studying, or working.
User Experience in Daily Use
The Roomba i7+ is designed to be as user-friendly and autonomous as possible. Once you set your cleaning schedule, it operates independently, requiring minimal user input. Through the iRobot Home App, you can schedule routines, set cleaning zones, or exclude specific areas (like pet feeding stations or play areas). Intelligent sensors and cameras help the vacuum avoid obstacles, navigate around furniture, and prevent falls down stairs, ensuring reliable performance every time.
User Experience Highlights
- Effortless Scheduling: Create daily or weekly routines through the app.
- Custom Cleaning Zones: Target high-traffic areas for focused cleaning.
- No-Go Zones: Virtually block sensitive areas without physical barriers.
- Reliable Navigation: Avoids obstacles, cords, and stairs using smart sensors.
- Low-Maintenance Lifestyle: Requires little to no manual oversight once set up.
- Intuitive App Interface: Easy to use even for first-time smart device users.
Maintenance and Replacement Costs
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is designed to minimize hands-on maintenance while maintaining peak performance. With proper care, it can deliver consistent results for years, making it one of the most reliable long-term investments in the robot vacuum market. Regular maintenance is simple, and replacement parts are affordable and easy to find online or from official retailers.
Filter, Brushes, and Bin Maintenance
Routine maintenance ensures your Roomba continues cleaning efficiently. The i7+ uses a HEPA-style high-efficiency filter that captures dust, pollen, and pet dander, keeping your indoor air clean. Its dual multi-surface rubber brushes are resistant to tangles, making them perfect for pet hair and mixed flooring. The Clean Base bag system also adds convenience by minimizing how often you need to handle dirt.
Maintenance Recommendations
- HEPA Filter Replacement: Every 2–3 months, depending on usage frequency and household size.
- Dual Rubber Brushes: Replace every 6–12 months, or sooner if you have pets.
- Edge-Sweeping Brush: Inspect monthly and clean to prevent tangles.
- Clean Base Bag: Replace approximately every 2 months or after 60 cleaning cycles.
- Sensor and Camera Cleaning: Wipe gently with a soft cloth every few weeks for accurate mapping.
- Dustbin and Filter Housing: Rinse and dry thoroughly to maintain suction performance.
Long-Term Ownership Costs
While replacement parts do add to the long-term cost, they are inexpensive compared to the time and effort saved. iRobot provides official replacement kits, and third-party alternatives are also widely available. The durability and ease of upkeep make the i7+ an excellent long-term investment, especially for busy families or pet owners.
Key Takeaways on Ownership Costs
- Affordable Consumables: Replacement filters and brushes cost only a few dollars each.
- Extended Lifespan: With proper care, the i7+ can last 5–7 years or more.
- Low Maintenance Burden: Requires only monthly checkups and occasional part changes.
- Cost Justification: Savings in time and convenience outweigh the recurring costs.
- Environmentally Friendly: Replacement components reduce waste compared to disposable vacuums.
Comparison with Competitors
When comparing the Roomba i7+ to newer or rival models, it still holds a strong position in terms of performance, intelligence, and ease of use. While competitors like the Roomba j7+, Roborock S8, and Shark AI Ultra introduce new features, the i7+ continues to impress with its proven reliability and balanced design.
iRobot Roomba i7+ vs. Roomba j7+
The Roomba j7+ offers PrecisionVision Navigation, which helps it detect and avoid obstacles like cables, socks, or pet waste. However, the i7+ remains a solid choice for those who prioritize mapping accuracy, cleaning consistency, and price efficiency. Both models share similar suction power and Clean Base technology.
Comparison Highlights
- Navigation: j7+ has object recognition; i7+ relies on smart mapping with excellent accuracy.
- Cleaning Power: Nearly identical suction strength.
- Price: i7+ is often more affordable while offering similar core functionality.
- Software Updates: Both receive regular firmware improvements from iRobot.
- Verdict: The j7+ is slightly smarter; the i7+ is the better value buy.
Roomba i7+ vs. Roborock S8 and Shark AI Ultra
The Roborock S8 excels in battery life and mopping capability, while the Shark AI Ultra focuses on AI-based navigation and self-cleaning brush rolls. Despite these advantages, the i7+ stands out for its reliability, ease of use, and superior app experience.
Comparison Summary
- Battery Life: Roborock S8 lasts longer (up to 120 mins), while i7+ runs for ~75 mins.
- Ease of Use: i7+ wins with an intuitive app and simpler maintenance.
- Cleaning Efficiency: Roomba’s methodical navigation ensures thorough coverage.
- Reliability: i7+ has fewer software glitches than Shark’s AI Ultra.
- Overall Verdict: Roborock S8 for power users, i7+ for consistent, everyday convenience.
Pros and Cons of iRobot Roomba i7+
Every premium gadget has its strengths and weaknesses. The iRobot Roomba i7+ stands tall in automation, cleaning efficiency, and user satisfaction—but it’s not without minor trade-offs.
Key Advantages
- ✅ Self-Emptying Clean Base eliminates daily bin emptying.
- ✅ Imprint Smart Mapping offers customizable and room-specific cleaning.
- ✅ Strong Suction Power ensures deep carpet cleaning.
- ✅ Seamless Voice Control with Alexa and Google Assistant.
- ✅ Consistent Firmware Updates keep performance optimized.
- ✅ Low Maintenance Design ideal for busy households and pet owners.
Potential Drawbacks
- ❌ Premium Price Tag compared to entry-level models.
- ❌ No Obstacle Recognition (unlike the j7+).
- ❌ Louder During Self-Emptying, though brief.
- ❌ Moderate Battery Life, suitable for small to medium homes but not very large spaces.
Pricing and Value for Money
Is It Worth the Premium Price?
With a retail price between $599 and $799, the Roomba i7+ firmly belongs in the high-end segment. However, the combination of automation, reliability, and minimal upkeep justifies its cost over time. Unlike cheaper vacuums that require frequent manual intervention, the i7+ provides a true autonomous experience that fits perfectly into modern smart homes.
Why It’s Worth the Investment
- Saves Time and Effort: Virtually maintenance-free for weeks.
- Proven Longevity: Designed for years of consistent performance.
- Smart Features: Advanced mapping and self-emptying justify the premium.
- Solid Warranty: Backed by iRobot’s trusted customer support and service network.
- Long-Term Value: Fewer replacements and reliable cleaning make it cost-effective over time.
