iRobot Roomba 690 Review: Buyer’s Guide

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Written by: Ryan Sneltzer
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Ever wondered if the hype around robotic vacuums is worth it? Dive into our iRobot Roomba 690 review and discover a game-changer in modern home cleaning. In an era where time is a luxury, traditional vacuuming often takes a backseat. The iRobot Roomba 690 claims to be a solution, offering tech-forward features with unmatched performance. Let’s put it to the test and see if it lives up to the buzz.

iRobot Roomba 690 Robot Vacuum
Pros:
  • Affordability, especially when compared to feature-packed contemporaries.
  • Voice command compatibility through Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Mobile app controls provide cleaning on the go.
Cons:
  • Navigation issues on darker flooring.
  • Limited effectiveness on highly textured surfaces.
  • Potential challenges navigating beneath very low-profile furniture.
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Key Features of the iRobot Roomba 690

Key Features of the iRobot Roomba 690
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity and App Control: One of the Roomba 690’s standout features is its ability to be controlled directly from your phone, offering seamless cleaning management. Add to that compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, and you have a vacuum that awaits your voice commands.
  • Powerful Suction: Regardless of the tech features, the primary job of a vacuum is cleaning. The Roomba 690 boasts powerful suction capabilities, ensuring dirt, dust, and even pet hair on carpets and hardwood floors are effectively tackled.
  • Dual-Mode Virtual Wall Beacon: Want to restrict the Roomba from entering a specific room? The included virtual wall beacon ensures certain areas remain off-limits.
  • Safety Features: With cliff sensors, there’s no worrying about your Roomba taking a tumble down the stairs.
  • Charging Dock: After a cleaning session, the Roomba 690 autonomously returns to its charging dock, readying itself for the next round.

Cleaning Performance

Cleaning Performance

The Roomba 690 robotic vacuum is optimal for minimalist spaces with low-pile rugs and wood flooring, delivering efficient cleaning. However, its performance can decrease on heavily textured surfaces, where dirt might hide in deep grooves or patterns. Users may need supplementary cleaning for such intricate flooring.

Floor Type Adaptability

Floor Type Adaptability

The Roomba 690 robotic vacuum is adept at navigating and adjusting its cleaning mechanisms when transitioning from hardwood surfaces to low-pile rugs. Its sensors and algorithms are tailored to handle these common household flooring types, ensuring a thorough clean. However, when it comes to darker shades of flooring, the Roomba 690 encounters some difficulties. The sensors on the device can occasionally misinterpret or have trouble detecting these darker surfaces, which might impact its efficiency or navigation. This means that while it excels on lighter and medium-toned floors, homeowners with predominantly dark flooring might experience some inconsistencies in cleaning performance.

Mapping and Navigation

The device, while proficient in many aspects, does have occasional challenges with docking and navigation when it comes to dark-colored floors. For homeowners whose interiors prominently feature these darker surfaces, this is an important consideration to keep in mind when evaluating its suitability for their cleaning needs.

Battery Life

On a single charge, expect up to 90 minutes of cleaning action. However, recharging the Roomba 690 takes a substantial 2-3 hours.

Noise Level

The Roomba 690 operates at a noise level between 65-68 dB, comparable to a loud conversation. While it’s audible and noticeable, it isn’t overwhelmingly disruptive, allowing for other activities to continue in its presence without significant disturbance.

Maintenance & Convenience

The Roomba 690 is equipped for user convenience and efficiency. Its detachable dustbin simplifies maintenance, while edge sensors ensure it doesn’t fall off ledges or stairs. Additionally, its dual-mode wall beacon aids in navigation, allowing users to set boundaries for designated cleaning areas. All these features combine to offer a practical and user-friendly cleaning solution.

Pricing and Value for Money

In the robotic vacuum sphere, the Roomba 690 presents as a wallet-friendly option, especially considering its features. If app controls and voice command functionalities sit high on your priority list, the Roomba 690 offers a compelling value proposition.

iRobot Roomba 690 Robot Vacuum
Pros:
  • Affordability, especially when compared to feature-packed contemporaries.
  • Voice command compatibility through Alexa and Google Assistant.
  • Mobile app controls provide cleaning on the go.
Cons:
  • Navigation issues on darker flooring.
  • Limited effectiveness on highly textured surfaces.
  • Potential challenges navigating beneath very low-profile furniture.
Check Today's Price
We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Final Thoughts

After an in-depth analysis in our iRobot Roomba 690 review, we can confidently say that this robotic vacuum merges modern technology with efficient cleaning, making it a worthy addition to any contemporary home.

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Ryan Sneltzer