Roomba J7 vs S9 Comparison Review
This Roomba j7 vs s9 comparison review seeks to find out whether or not the latest release from iRobot, the J7, has matched the superiority of the Roomba S9.
Just like other robot vacuum brands, iRobot updates its product portfolio frequently with much better models and, at times, upgrades to the entry-level models. Recently, the company unveiled the Roomba J7 and J7+. With the new additions, buyers can be in a dilemma on which model to go for as they don’t know what makes the two different.
This article has compared all the critical aspects of these two vacuums, from their design and cleaning performance to autonomy and smart features.
Comparison Table
Which one to choose Roomba J7 or Roomba S9?
4 reasons to choose Roomba S9
- Anti-allergen system: High-efficiency filter of Roomba S9 keeps 99.99% allergens and keeps fresh air in the house.
- Extra-large dustbin: 550 ml dustbin is convenient for manual cleaning after each run or automatic with Auto Disposal Unit.
- Perfect cleaning of edges: PerfectEdge Technology of Roomba S9 with advanced sensors ensures deep cleaning of corners and edges.
- Excellent navigation: Updated vSLAM navigation and Smart Mapping with more than 200.00 data points to create detailed maps and perform cleaning in the most required areas.
Roomba S9 Series
The Roomba S9 has reigned as the best Roomba since its release in late May 2019. The robot vacuum is an all-rounder that can sweep and vacuum all types of bare floors, carpets, and pet messes. Even though it’s very expensive, it guarantees value for money, considering it has all the bells and whistles that high-end robot vacuums boast.
For the record, there are two models in the Roomba S Series: Roomba S9 (9150) and Roomba S9+ (9550). The two Roombas are similar from all angles except that the base model, the S9, doesn’t include the iRobot Clean Base® Automatic Dirt Disposal unit and Dirt Disposal Bags. These are accessories that the S9+ comes with.
Roomba J7 Series
In September 2021, iRobot released a new Roomba series called the J Series. Unlike the Roomba S Series, this one is not an all-rounder. It is suitable for vacuuming bare floors and pet messes. But when it comes to carpets, it can satisfactorily handle low pile carpets only. However, there are a few unique features that only the J Series Roombas boast.
Just like the I and S Series Roombas, the J Series has two models. First, the base model, Roomba J7 (7150), doesn’t come with the iRobot Clean Base® Automatic Dirt Disposal unit and Dirt Disposal Bags, but it is compatible with the automatic self-emptying bin technology. On the other hand, the J7+ (7150) comes with these accessories.
Face to Face Comparison Review
Now, onto the main business of the day, how does the Roomba J7 compare to the S9? Has the new Roomba ended the S Series’ dominance? Let’s find out.
1. Design and Aesthetics
To start this Roomba S Series vs. J Series comparison review, let’s assess how the duo compares in terms of design and aesthetics.
Remember here; the aim is to buy a low-profile robot vacuum that can creep under low-profile furniture. This is where most dirt hides.
Roomba S9 Design and Aesthetics
The Roomba S9 and S9+, unlike all other Roombas, comes in a D-shaped design dubbed PerfectEdge Technology. This enables it to reach the deep corners and sweep wall edges.
When it comes to dimensions, the S9 (robot only) measures 12.5-inches width x 3.5 inches high and weighs 8.15lbs. The Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal Unit, on the other hand, measures 12.2-inches in width x 15.1-inches in diameter x 19-inches in height.
Regarding the finish, the S7 is available in a single color option; black and gold. There are three control buttons on the top right side and the iRobot logo at the center of the robot.
Roomba J7 Design and Aesthetics
The Roomba J7 is different from the S7 in terms of shape. This one is a round-shaped robot vacuum, but it maintains the same low profile design to allow it to go under low profile furniture such as kickstands, sofas, beds, etc.
When it comes to the dimensions, the J7 (robot only) measures 13.3 inches width x 3.4 inches high. As for the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal Unit, things have taken a twist. The J7’s Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal Unit is shorter, wider, and has a compartment for keeping extra disposable bags.
Unlike the Roomba S9, which comes in black and gold, the J7 Series Roombas are black and silver. Another difference is that the J7 comes with a single button at the center of the top interface.
verdictRoomba J7 differs from S9 in shape, number of buttons on the top interface, and color patterns. Although the dimensions are similar. As S9 is better for edge cleaning because of its shape and it has more buttons for control from the top interface, it is the winner in this part of the Roomba J7 vs. S9 comparison.
2. Cleaning Performance
The most important consideration when deciding between buying the Roomba S9 or the J7 is the cleaning performance. Here we will assess several critical aspects, including the orientation, specialty, vacuuming performance, and filtration. We will also share our exclusive cleaning test results.
Roomba S9 Cleaning Performance
The Roomba S9 is a dedicated robot vacuum; it doesn’t have the mopping function. However, it supports Imprint Link Technology, an innovation that allows it to sync with the Braava M6 robot mop for simultaneous vacuuming and mopping. In terms of specialization, the S9 is ideal for all types of bare floors, including hardwood, tile, laminate, linoleum, and vinyl, among others. It can also handle low, medium, and high pile carpets as well as Flokati and area rugs. You can also rely on the S9 to vacuum pet messes.
Like most Roombas, the S9 deploys a 3-stage cleaning system to vacuum dirt from floors and carpets. However, there are a few things that set it apart from the rest.
- First, the S9 comes with a powerful multi-speed motor that delivers a whopping 2200pa when the high power mode, Power Boost, is activated.
- Second, the brush system is still based on AeroForce technology. There is a dual multi-surface brushroll for agitating and lifting dirt. It is assisted by a specially designed corner brush optimized to clean deep corners and wall edges.
For the record, the Roomba S9 comes with Dirt Detect Technology that detects spots with high dirt concentration, switches to Spot mode, and vacuums all the dirt.
While it’s a high-end robot vacuum, it’s unfortunate that iRobot has not equipped the S series with true-HEPA filters. Instead, the company used AeroForce high-efficiency filters that capture 99.9% of allergens, dust mites, pollen, and other elements that trigger nasal allergies or cause bad odor. In addition, there is an 0.4L onboard bin that can be emptied automatically if you have the iRobot Clean Base® Automatic Dirt Disposal. A single disposal bag can hold up to 30 days of dirt.
Roomba J7 Cleaning Performance
The Roomba J7 is not different from the S9 in terms of orientation. It is also a dedicated robot vacuum, so it won’t mop floors. However, you can sync it with the Braava M6 using Imprint Link Technology for simultaneous vacuuming and mopping. On to specialization, this robot vacuum is best for cleaning all types of bare floors, talk of hardwood, tile, laminate, vinyl, etc. It is also ideal for pet messes and carpets, but low pile carpets only.
The Roomba J7 also uses a 3-stage cleaning system where dirt is agitated, lifted, and sucked into the bin. But one major difference is the suction output. While the Roomba S9 delivers a whopping 2200 pa, the J7 uses a 2nd Gen single speed motor that manages 900pa. To loosen and lift dirt, the robot vacuum has an AeroForce dual multi-surface brushroll, which works in tandem with a side sweeping brush that reaches the deep corners and wall edges where most dirt hides.
The Roomba J7 also comes with Dirt Detect, a feature designed to prioritize spots with high dirt concentration.
Regarding filtration, the S9 is similar to the J7 except for the difference in bin capacity. The J7 comes with a 0.5L onboard bin which is larger than the S9’s 0.4L bin. This Roomba is also a self-emptying robot vacuum that empties the bin after each cleaning session, so you no longer have to worry about the tedious task of manually emptying the bin daily. A single disposable bag can hold up to a month’s dirt. Last is on filtration, and here, the J7 comes with the same AeroForce high-efficiency filters that come with the S9.
verdictThe two differences between the two Roombas are that Roomba S9 has more powerful suction (2200 Pa vs. 1700 Pa), and J7 has a bigger dustbin (0.5L vs. 0.4L). At the same time, the HEPA filter, 3-stage cleaning system, and AeroForce dual multi-surface brush rolls are the same for both vacuums. So, there is no winner in this part of the comparison. However, it is essential to admit that if we compare models with Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal (Roomba J7+ and S9+), the differences will be the same; both Base Units, even though they have different dimensions, can keep dirt for 30 days.
3. Cleaning Test Results
As usual, we test all the robot vacuums we review. The S9 and J7 are not exceptions. Below is a chart showing how the two Roombas compare in terms of cleaning in a real household setting.
verdictAs said earlier, S9 has a more powerful motor, so the performance during tests on carpets and bare floors is better than J7. So, S9 is the winner.
4. Battery and Runtime
The battery and runtime of a robot vacuum is a critical consideration when looking for the best Roomba for you. In this section, we have compared the battery capacity, runtime, and charging options of Roomba J7 and S9.
Roomba S9 Battery and Runtime
The S9 comes with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery whose 3300mAh capacity gives the Roomba a cool 120 minutes runtime when in low power mode.
When it comes to power management, the S9 comes with patented smart recharge and resume technology. It will automatically dock for recharge and resume cleaning once the battery sucks enough juice. The recharge time averages 4 hours.
Roomba J7 Battery and Runtime
The Roomba J7 comes with a different battery. This is a 2210mAh Denali lithium-ion battery. It can offer up to 90 minutes of runtime, enough to handle a mid-sized apartment on a single charge.
Like the Roomba S9, the J7 will automatically dock for recharge and resume cleaning from where it left. This is courtesy of iRobot’s patented smart recharge and resume technology. The recharge time of the J7 is 2-3 hours.
verdictAgain, the older model Roomba S9 wins due to the large battery capacity of 330 mAh and longer runtime without a recharge – 120 minutes.
5. Navigation, Mapping, and Boundary Marking
Besides cleaning performance and autonomy, it’s also important to assess the navigation and mapping system of the robot vacuums on your wishlist. So, how does Roomba S9 compare to the J7?
Roomba S9 Navigation and Mapping
The Roomba S9 is one of the most intelligent Roombas on the market. It comes with iAdapt 3.0 Navigation with Imprint Smart Mapping, a Visual Simultaneous Localization, and Mapping (VSLAM) navigation system that includes an upgraded software, an onboard camera, and a set of obstacles and cliff detection sensors. As a result, the robot can find its way around your house, avoiding obstacles such as shoes, chair legs, and so on.
When it comes to mapping, this robot has a smart mapping system that learns, maps, and adapts to your home. It also cleans using an elaborate cleaning pattern that guarantees entire level cleaning. There is a system that captures up to 230,400 data points/second to optimize coverage in large apartments. When it comes to boundary marking, the S9 has digital barriers known as Keep Out Zones. You can also send the robot to clean specific rooms instead of the entire house.
Roomba J7 Navigation and Mapping
The Roomba J7 also comes with iAdapt 3.0 Navigation with Imprint Smart Mapping. The VSLAM-based navigation system boasts updated software, an onboard front-facing camera, and drop/obstacle detection sensors. One difference between the S9 and J7 is the PrecisionVision Navigation. This feature enables the Roomba to identify objects and obstacles to be avoided, for example, power cords and cable, socks, shoes, headphones, and even dog poop.
As for mapping, this is also a smart robot vacuum that creates hyper-accurate maps of your home. The J7 cleans in a systematic pattern guaranteeing entire level cleaning. When it comes to boundary marking, homeowners can create limits right from the app courtesy of the Keep Out Zones feature. You can also send the robot to clean specific rooms instead of it vacuuming the entire house unnecessarily.
verdictJ7 has received updated software for avoiding small obstacles and dog messes, so in this parameter, it is better. In navigation and mapping, there is no significant difference comparing Roomba J7 vs. S9. So, J7 is a winner in this part.
6. Smart Features and Convenience
The Roomba S9 and J7 are both smart robot vacuums with 2.4GHz WiFi compatibility. But then, the J7 has the upper hand here. Find out how the duo compares.
Roomba S9 Smart Features and Convenience
The Roomba S9 allows for remote operation via the iRobot Home app and voice assistants. Once you connect the Roomba S9 to the iRobot Home app, you can set cleaning schedules, customize cleaning routines, customize cleaning maps, view clean maps, and so on.
When it comes to voice assistants, the Roomba S9 is compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant. Another feature worth mentioning is iRobot Genius Home Intelligence, an innovation that features event-based automation, recommended cleaning schedules, recommended Keep Out Zones, and seasonal recommendations.
Roomba J7 Smart Features and Convenience
The Roomba J7 has all the smart features that the S9 comes with, plus several extras. You can control your robot using the iRobot Home app or voice assistants, including Alexa and Google Assistant. But there is a difference between the S9 vs. J7 in terms of smart features. This robot comes with iRobot Home Genius 3.0.
This new version comes with four new features; Cleaning Time Estimates, Clean While I’m Away, Quiet Drive, and Smart Map Coaching and Room Name Suggestions.
Is Roomba S9 a Good Robot Vacuum
Yes. The Roomba S9 is a great robot vacuum designed for cleaning all bare floors, pet messes, and carpets. This is also a self-emptying robot vacuum. Even though we have the new J7, the S9 is still the best Roomba.
It comes with high suction for vacuuming all carpets, from the low pile to the high pile. Another advantage of the Roomba S9 is its longer runtime, courtesy of the large lithium-ion battery.
Is Roomba J7 a Good Robot Vacuum Brand
Yes. The Roomba J7 is an equally good robot vacuum that can satisfactorily vacuum all types of bare floors and pet messes. You can also rely on it to vacuum low pile carpets, and it’s also a self-emptying robot vacuum.
Importantly, this robot vacuum does a great job in busy and high traffic homes courtesy of the PrecisionVision navigation that identifies objects and obstacles that should be avoided, for example, dog poop.
verdictEvidentially, J7 is a smarter model thanks to four more features the s9 does not have. Correspondingly, J7 is the winner.
Our Verdict
That’s the end of this Roomba J7 vs. S9 face-to-face comparison review. As witnessed, both models have most of the bells and whistles from iRobot. Now, the elephant in the room is, which is the best choice? As far as cleaning performance is concerned, the Roomba S9 still reigns courtesy of high suction power and longer runtime.
However, if you don’t have a high pile carpet and you are keen on a Roomba with the smartest navigation system and intelligent convenience features, the J7 will be the best.
David
Will the new Roomba J7 work properly in total darkness (no daylight or artificial light)?
Richard Harrison
Hi, David! Sorry for the delay in responding and thank you for your question! Roomba J7 deals perfectly with dark zones (like dangerous top stairs and potential falling situations). However, there is no information or real users’ tests at our disposal on its work in total darkness.