Braava 240 vs 380t Comparison Review
While Roomba’s are renowned for their excellent floor and carpet vacuuming, there’s no Roomba that mops the floor.
When it comes to mopping, you need to get a robot mop, and gladly, iRobot offers these cleaners in their Braava series.
The debate about the best robot mop is definitely between Braava 240 vs 380t. These two are the most popular dedicate robot mops in the market. They are both from iRobot meaning the Braava series is just a sibling to the popular Roomba series of robot vacuums.
The 240 is the older model while the 380t is a much newer model. But then, it is not safe to assume that the 240, being an older model, is inferior to the Braava 380t.
To help you make a sound decision between these two cleaners, we have compared all the fundamental features.
But before we dive deeper into the review, here is a short overview of the two models.
Comparison Table
Braava Jet 240 a Great Deal for Small Apartments
If you are on a budget, the Braava Jet 240 is the best choice. It is an inexpensive model when compared to the newer Braava 380t. It is usually confused with the Braava 245, but the two have no difference at all.
This floor cleaner boasts a large 0.15L water tanks and actually comes with a jet for spraying the cleaning solution.
One thing we liked about the Braava 240 is the fact that it has a spray jet that sprinkles the cleaning solution on the tough stains and grime. This is a feature the Braava 380t lacks so if you continuously have to deal with tough stains, it is the best choice.
The compact design is also noteworthy as it allows the cleaner to pass between the tight places.
However, it is too tall to go under most household furniture and fittings.
Braava 380t Excellent Value for Money
The Braava 240 is a great deal for small apartments but when it comes to large apartments and high traffic rooms, settle for the Braava 380t.
Even though it is quite expensive compared to the Braava 240 and 245, it offers excellent value for money.
This floor cleaner has two cleaning modes; sweep and wet mopping. You have to select your preferred mode via the buttons manually.
Even though all the cleaning features are similar to the Braava 240, the 380 deals with the tough stains in a better fashion than the 240. We will talk about this in detail when discussing the cleaning test results.
The battery is just the same 1800mAh Li-Ion battery, but you will realize that it can cover a larger floor area. This is because of the additional NorthStar cube which boosts the navigation ability. It doesn’t move randomly, so the chances of it going where it has already cleaned are minimal.
BRAAVA 240 vs. BRAAVA 380t COMPARISON REVIEW
Now that we know a thing or two about these floor cleaners, it’s time we get to the main business of the day. We will be comparing these two vacuums face to face, analyzing all the fundamental features.
1. DESIGN
One of the main differences between the Braava 380t vs. 240 is regarding the design. This is regarding the dimensions and weight as well as the aesthetics.
So, what is this difference, and does it have any impact on the cleaning performance? Let’s find out.
Dimensions and weight
The dimensions of a floor cleaner may not be of direct impact to the cleaning performance, but it determines where the cleaner will reach and where it won’t.
On the other hand, you will be required to carry the cleaner from time to time, so the weight also matters.
Let’s see how the 380t compares to the 240.
Braava 240
The Braava 240 is compact compared to the 380t in terms of length and width. The cleaner measures 6.7 x 7-inches.
However, when it comes to height, it is a little bit taller at 3.3-inches. So, while it may be able to maneuver between tight spaces, it may not fit under low clearance furniture and household fittings.
This cleaner is easily portable as it weighs just 2.7lbs.
Braava 380t
The newer Braava 380t takes an entirely different approach. It is much bigger when you consider the length and width, but shorter than the 240 meaning it will go under most furniture that the 240 won’t fit under.
The 380t measures 9.57 x 8.5-inches and stands at 3.07-inches.
Considering the larger size, we expected it to be heavier, and it surely was, at 8.09lbs.
Aesthetics
How the floor cleaner looks may not be an important consideration if you are keen on the cleaning performance.
However, for purposes of telling the difference between the two Braavas, it is something that’s worth discussing.
Braava 240
The Braava 240 boasts a flashy white finish with bright blue accents.
On the user interface, it features only one large CLEAN button.
Braava 380t
On the other hand, the Braava 380t comes with a dark finish and has an entirely different user interface.
Instead of the single CLEAN button, we have three small buttons and LEDs below them.
2. CLEANING PERFORMANCE
The most important consideration when buying a cleaner is the performance. Let’s analyze all the critical aspects that dictate the cleaning performance of a robot mop.
Cleaning Modes
You need to know what cleaning modes each floor cleaner offers. A good floor cleaner should have more cleaning modes for better cleaning customization.
Let’s see what the Braava 240 and 380t offer.
Braava 380t
On the other hand, the Braava 380t comes with two cleaning modes.
- Dry mop
- Wet mop
While the 240 juggled between the two modes automatically, you have to manually switch from the dry mop and wet mop cleaning modes. That’s the reason for the inclusion of the extra buttons on the interface. These are buttons the Braava Jet 240 lacked.
Cleaning pads
The cleaning pad is the most important consideration when choosing a robot mop. We have a variety of types, each with different characteristics. You should know what each model offers, the advantages, as well as the disadvantages.
Braava 240
Braava 240 comes with removable and disposable cleaning pads making the maintenance harder.
However, you can choose to buy the washable type when replacing them — the cleaning pads of the Braava 240 slide at the bottom of the cleaner.
Braava 380t
As for the Braava Jet 380t, we have different cleaning pads (microfiber). They are also removable, but this time, you can wash them making the 380 better regarding maintenance. Unlike the 240, the cleaning pads of the 380t attach to the bottom using Velcro.
Cleaning pattern
The pattern in which the Braava cleans is also a crucial consideration. It determines whether the entire floor will be cleaned, and how long it will take. Most importantly, it ensures that the tough stains and grime are scrubbed off the floor.
Let’s find out how the two cleaners compare when it comes to the cleaning pattern.
Braava 380t
The Braava 380t also cleans in two patterns; Triple Pass and Single Pass.
In wet mode, it does the Triple Pass system which also moves forward, back and forward again.
However, in dry mode, it cleans in a Single Pass. As the name suggests, it just runs in one direction.
Water reservoir (tank)
The Braavas offer wet mopping, and that means they have water reservoirs (tank). It is also important to consider the tank capacity, as well as the build quality. Go for a large tank, and also consider the usability. It should have a simple design that makes it easy to refill.
Braava 240
Braava 240 comes with a larger 0.15L water tank. It holds enough water to mop an average two bedroomed apartment. Filling it is equally easy.
Braava 380t
When it comes to the Braava 380t, the water reservoirs is a little bit smaller at 0.12L. Even though this may seem a downgrade, the difference is negligible.
Cleaning test results
As usual, we put the two cleaners in a comprehensive test. This time, we were all about the mopping performance.
We stained the floor with honey, tea, soda, and water. After that, we put the two cleaners to test.
Braava 380t
When it comes to the Braava 380t, we didn’t notice any big difference as far as cleaning performance is concerned. It also cleared the water in dry mode leaving the floor clean and dry. The tea and soda wasn’t a problem too because it is less sticky.
However, honey and other sticky substances we’re stubborn and took longer to clean. They also cut down runtime because of the drag.
Even though the cleaning performance is just the same as that of the 240, the Northstar cube made the difference. At least it ensured the cleaner reaches every corner of the house. Consequently, no part of the house would be left untouched.
3. COVERAGE
Another crucial aspect to consider when choosing between these floor cleaners is the coverage. What floor area will it clean? The coverage of Braava robot mops is dependent on an amalgam of features.
Let’s compare all these features and see how they contribute to the coverage of the Braava Jet.
Battery and runtime
Just like Roombas, the Braava robot mops use rechargeable batteries. The capacity of the battery determines how long it will run for, and consequently, the floor area it will cover.
You also have to consider how each model manages its power.
The question to ask here is, will the Braava Jet recharge itself automatically like Roombas or you have to charge it manually? Another thing, what is the life cycle of each battery?
Let’s find out all these.
Braava 240
As for the Braava 240, nothing much changed in terms of battery performance. It still packs the same battery as Braava 380, but the difference is regarding how it is charged.
This time, you need to remove the battery only and charge it instead of docking the entire unit. The Braava Jet 240 runs for around 180 minutes.
The battery itself should last you for 18-24 months as well if you are a daily user.
Navigation system
Braava 240
Braava 240 comes with the iAdapt 1.0 navigation system. This is the most basic navigation system by iRobot that is also employed in the old Roombas like the 675, 690 and 890.
It uses sensors to find its location in the house, in relation to the walls. The 240 will get stuck a few times here and there, especially in high traffic rooms.
Its floor mapping and scanning are also not the best for large apartments just like the Roombas that use iAdapt 1.0.
Braava 380t
In the case of Braava 380t, we still have the iAdapt 1.0 navigation system which is efficient but still leaves a lot of room for improvement.
To make it better, iRobot included the NorthStar navigation technology. For starters, NorthStar is a standalone device that helps the Braava Jet 380t to find its position in the house. It helps it to know where it has been, and also, where it should go.
At least it boosts the iAdapt technology, and the result is better navigation and faster cleaning in high traffic rooms and large apartments.
Floor area
Having discussed all the features that contribute to the coverage of the two Braava vacuums, let’s focus on the area the two robot mops cover on a single charge.
We will give the data provided by the manufacturer and also what we found out in our cleaning test results.
Braava 380t
On the other hand, the Braava Jet 380t has been designed to solve the biggest flaw of the Braava Jet 240. Time, Braava covers more floor area. According to the manufacturer’s website, it should sweep up to 1,000ft2 and mop up to 350ft2.
Just like the Braava Jet 240, our tests proved otherwise as it did 1150ft2 in the sweeping mode and approximately 375ft2 when in the mopping mode.
Accessories
One important thing most buyers ignore is the accessories and parts included in the package. As a sneak peek of what to expect from the two models, the cheaper Braava 240 is a better package.
Let’s find out why.
Braava 240
As for the Braava Jet 240, you get:
- 2 Wet Mopping Pads,
- 2 Damp Mopping Pads,
- 2 Dry Sweeping Pads.
Braava 380t vs. 240: What’s the best Braava Robot Mop?
Now, we are coming to the end of our Braava 380t vs. 240 comparison review.
It is high time we declare our winner but just before that, here’s a recap of the major differences between these models.
- 1. Design – The Braava 380t is much larger and has a dark finish while the 240 is compact and has a bright white finish. There’s also a slight difference in the water tank capacity with the 240 at 0.15L while the 380t is a just 0.12L.
- 2. Spray jet – Braava 240 has a jet for spraying detergent on the tough stains, but the Braava 380 doesn’t spray detergent on the floor.
- 3. Cleaning area – Braava 380t cleans a much larger floor area compared to the Braava 240, obviously because the former has improved iAdapt navigation with NorthStar cube while the 240 solely depends on iAdapt.
- 4. Cleaning modes – Braava 240 comes with three cleaning modes (sweep, damp mop, and wet mop). On the other hand, the 380t has two cleaning modes only (sweep and wet mop)
- 5. Mode selection – The 240 detects the type of cleaning cloth and switches between the different modes automatically whereas the Braava 380t’s cleaning mode has to be selected manually.
- 6. Charging – While they both have the same battery, the Braava is manually docked for recharging. On the other hand, the Braava 240 has a removable battery that is charged separately.
- 7. Price – From the fact that the Braava 380t has more features and accessories as well, its price is higher than the 240.
So, who’s the winner?
The Braava 240 offers impressive performance, especially from the fact that it can spray the cleaning solution on the tough stains, something the 380t can’t. The compact design also allows it to fit between tiny spaces. However, the rather tall height makes it incapable of going under household fittings and furniture with low ground clearance.
It is the Braava Jet 380t that carries the day even though it is much expensive. The first reason you want to but the Braava 380 is because of the better cleaning performance and also, the efficient navigation system. This robot mop also has a longer runtime and will cover more floor area.
Is there a Roomba that mops?
No. There’s no Roomba that has been designed to vacuum and mop like the Deebot N78 or ILIFE V5s Pro and V7s Pro.
The confusion is around the manufacturing brand. Roombas are designed by iRobot, the same brand that is behind Braavas. Roombas are robot vacuums and don’t have a mopping function. On the other hand, Braavas are robot mops, and their primary purpose is mopping.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Braava 380t connect to App?
Can you put cleaning solution in Braava jet 240?
Does Braava 240 avoid carpet?
How much water does the Braava 240 hold?
Are the cloths of Braava 240 and 380t washable?
Braava 240 vs Braava 380t: which robot mop is a more affordable purchase?
Wrapping up
There you have it, a Braava 380t vs. 240 comparison review.
In summary, the Braava Jet 240 is a cheap and affordable models ideal for small homes.
On the other hand, the Braava Jet 380t is quite expensive, but with features that justify the price tag.
What’s your choice? Talk to us in the comments section.
