Deebot vs. Roomba Face-to-Face Comparison
In this Deebot vs Roomba comparison review, determine whether the Chinese brand has finally caught up with the US brand.
You will agree with me that even though iRobot is the most popular robot vacuum brand, Deebot is also a force to reckon with for two reasons: versatility (vacuum and mop) and affordability.
Yes, Roomba offers everything you will ever want when it comes to floor, carpet, and pet hair vacuuming. In this article, we will review only two Combo models for simultaneous mopping and vacuuming – Combo j9+ and Combo j7+. Meanwhile, Deebot has more mopping models, and their OMNI station is more functional.
Deebot vs. iRobot Main Differences
These two robot vacuum brands share several standard features, but then there are several differences, as listed below.
Cleaning Orientation – Roombas are mainly dedicated robot vacuums from iRobot. They have only four combos with a mopping function. Additionally, there is a separate mop robot, Braava Jet M6, that can be connected in perfect sequence with most Roombas. On the other hand, ECOVACS offers many Deebot vacuums with mops, for example, the Deebot N8, T20, and the X2 Series. These vacuums offer simultaneous vacuuming and mopping. Pet lovers also like the dry and wet mopping functions because it eliminates the need to invest in another robot for mopping, which Roomba owners, especially hardwood floor owners, regret.
This is the only main difference that sets these two brands apart as of now. For sure, there are minor ones in navigation and mapping technologies, construction of automatic emptying stations, battery capacity, suction power, and many more. But the exact differences are present within models of one brand.
In recent times, Roombas have been significantly more expensive than Deebot, and the Deebot’s cheap price points for basic vacuum and mop models have attracted most homeowners. But lately, iRobot has decreased prices on models like j7, i4 Evo, and even Combo i5, and sells with significant discount models with Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum – Roomba i4+ EVO or Roomba j5+.
Moreover, it’s worth mentioning that Deebot significantly updates with the latest technologies like self-emptying, VSLAM navigation, or artificial intelligence in their robot cleaners, and the latest models cost about $1,000. On the other hand, Roomba remains a trusted brand when it comes to reliability. Right now, iRobot is the leader when it comes to innovation. Some of their industry-leading technologies have helped build an intelligent and reliable home helper.
All these factors are put together to make it hard for many people to settle on one brand. For this reason, we decided to review these two brands to see who the winner is, all factors considered.
Why Roomba?
If you ask any Tom, Dick, and Harry, they will tell you that Roomba is a trusted brand, so we have to look at what makes brands?
iRobot has more than 30 years of experience and invests heavily in R&D. This gives an edge when it comes to the best cleaning technologies. Roomba robots can adjust suction power based on the floor type, automatically detect the dirtiest areas, and avoid obstacles like pet accidents; clean while you are away with a multi-stage cleaning system. In the smartphone application, you can set schedules, receive cleaning suggestions, target to clean specific rooms and customize home maps to set boundaries. All Roombas described in this article support the particular smartphone application – iRobot Home, Alexa, and Google Assistance.
Also, Roomba is the best vacuum cleaner for carpets, courtesy of iRobot’s powerful suction. It also has an intelligent navigation system with real-time cameras, automatic bin emptying, and a self-learning mechanism, among other features. Recently, they introduced several combos, including all smart technologies and becoming best-sellers.
Popular Roomba Models
Roomba j7/j7+ vs. Combo j7+
The j series is the latest model from iRobot and belongs to the tenth generation of iRobot cleaners. This series includes three models – j7, j7+, and Combo j7+. The j7 and j7+ were introduced in September 2021 and were the first robots with Precision Vision technology to avoid such obstacles as cords and pet accidents. The Combo j7+ is the first vacuum and mop robot capabilities introduced in September 2022. The J7+ and Combo j7+ go with the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal that can keep dust for up to 60 days.
The smart features of the j7 series are identical to the i7 series (previously the most innovative series of Roomba) with some exceptions. The new feature Precision Vision, in addition to smart avoidance with Pet Promise (if the feature does not work, the robot can be replaced), will update the maps after the obstacle detection and notify about any detected hazards. Moreover, for j7, you may set Keep Out Zones; this feature was not available for i7. The robots have targeted room cleaning with personalized suggested cleanings; they navigate easily under and around the furniture and clean in neat rows.
The cleaning process of j7+ is 3-staged: the dirt and dust are collected with the edge-sweeping brush and dual multi-surface rubber brushes and further sucked with power-lifting suction. The Combo j7+ at the last stage mops to receive a shining floor. The Combo j7+ is a 2-in-1 robot for simultaneously vacuuming and mopping the floor. It automatically senses the carpet, and the mopping pad is raised to prevent a wet mess. If you want to upgrade the Roomba j7+ with a mop function, you can pair it with the Braava jet M6.
j7 Series gives seasonal cleaning and scheduling recommendations and can clean when you are away. They learn with every cleaning, remember the dirtiest spots, and create favorite cleaning routes.
Roomba j6/j6+
Roomba j6+ is one of the latest models from iRobot. It includes all other smart features from previous models regarding navigation and mapping but does not propose mopping for the owners. This model is a unique proposal for Amazon buyers and is an exclusive version of j7+. Moreover, this model is available with the Clean Base for two whole months of keeping dust and dirt.
It has all the main functions of j7+, such as pet accidents and cords avoidance using PrecisionVision Navigation, a three-stage cleaning system, 10x powerful suction, voice control via Google Home and Alexa, cleaning when you are away, smart recharge, and resume. With Dirt Detect Sensors, it focuses on the dirtiest spots; all spots are checked with Reactive Sensors; if the robot can’t go there, it informs the owner. The robot cleans in neat rows and suggests the cleaning paths.
Using Smart Mapping Technology, the vacuum cleaner learns with every cleaning and adjusts the cleaning patterns with every change of your furniture and the appearance of new obstacles. The robot has advanced sensors to navigate under and around the furniture, and it avoids the stairs with Cliff sensors. When the battery is low, the robot comes automatically to the Base station, emptying the dustbin into enclosed bags, capturing 99% of dust, debris, dirt, and pollen.
Every day, the robot gets smarter and updates via Wi-Fi to keep your home clean. You should ensure all your data is safe, as iRobot uses data encryption.
Roomba i3/i3+ vs. i4/i4+
iRobot presented a less expensive i3 model (3150 and 3550) in 2018 and i4 in 2021. i3 and i4 have iAdapt 3.0 and Clean Base Station to hold dust for up to 60 days. They are equipped with 20% larger batteries than j7+ and j6+ models to work 75 minutes without charging. Their Imprint Smart technology allows you to direct the robot to any room you want for cleaning and to set schedules.
For the record, the Roomba i4 (4150 and 4550), which is also the entry-level model, is the same i3, only that the i3 is an Amazon model while the i4 is exclusive to Costco.
The i3 also comes with one spare filter, while the i4 comes with two spare filters and a virtual wall accessory. As for other Roomba models, plus models (i3+ and i4+) are the same robots with Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal. While i3 and i4 only support this technology, the Base should be purchased separately.
When it comes to cleaning performance, the i3 and i4 are the same as the Roomba 800 series. That means they are ideal for cleaning bare floors, low-pile carpets, and pet messes. You can check out our Roomba i3 vs.i7 vs.i8 comparison review to find out more. The dual multi-surface brush is recommended for pet owners, as it adjusts to all types.
Like all other described models, the Roomba i3/i4 is equipped with dirt detect technology to clean the dirtiest spots more thoroughly and suggest personalized owner schedules for room cleaning. They clean in tidy rows, automatically recharge, and resume. Unfortunately, these models do not have smart obstacle avoidance; you cannot create in the smartphone application Keep Out Zones or clean specific areas in the room, no carpet boost or corner clean.
But for the rest, these basic models are worth their money; you will have all the main features of the Roombas robot for an affordable price. So you need only to choose if you want the Costco or Amazon version of the robot.
Roomba Combo j9+
Roomba Combo j9+ was also released in 2023 as j6+; the main difference between these models is that j9+ has a mopping capability. The j9+ docking station, in addition to self-emptying functions and holding dust for 60 days, automatically refills the robot’s built-in water tank for 30 days and holds accessories.
Roomba j9+ has three levels of suction power and automatic carpet boost. For more intense cleaning, you may use a cleaning solution. The package has several additional accessories: an extra disposal bag, an extra edge brush, an extra mopping pad, and an extra HEPA filter.
Among Roombas, j9+ is the number one robot for picking up dirt and dust; it scrubs the floor two more intensely than other mopping models. The upgraded Dirt Detective sensors help to create the most effective cleaning plan; it prioritizes the dirtiest rooms. It selects the ideal suction power settings, cleaning patterns, and water flows in auto mode. As a j7+ model, it has obstacle sensors to avoid obstacles of all sizes.
The j9+ has a unique system to prevent carpet mopping; the mopping pad is lifted to the robot’s top. Meanwhile, hard floors are mopped and vacuumed simultaneously. So, the cleaning system is 4-staged as the j7+ combo. Moreover, j9+ is equipped with mapping technology that makes maps seven times more than previous models (j7+ combo as well). All spots in your home will be passed twice, floor from wall to wall. All smart features are standard for iRobot – schedules, keep out zones, clean zones, smartphone app, voice control, and clean while you are away.
Why Deebot?
It was after the rebranding of TEK Electrical Company in 2006 that ECOVACS Deebot was born. A year later, they released the first Deebot robot, which is, in fact, their best-selling product. It got a great reception in China, and by 2014, the company had expanded its operations to the U.S. definitely because of the popularity of robot vacuum cleaners in the U.S. Right now, it is in over 60 countries and has sold over 5 million units.
The Deebot is the most popular series in the ECOVACS product portfolio. Some popular robots in this series include Deebot T8, T8 AIVI, X1, X2, T10, and T20, among others. For ECOVACS, they entered the market just the other day, and most of their technologies are just replicas of the existing robot vacuum technologies.
Though ECOVACS Robotics is not a very popular brand, Deebot has taken center stage in the robot vacuum market; the company said that it aims to put a robot cleaner in every household, and one thing that proves its commitment is its prices. But Deebot didn’t stop on cheap models; they presented new above-average robots with a self-emptying system, auto cleaning, and drying technologies, live video, the most powerful suction on the market, laser sensors for obstacle avoidance, and advanced navigation technologies.
Another top reason why you should choose Deebot is its versatility. While Roomba has only recently introduced combo models, most Roomba homeowners will require a Roomba for vacuuming floors and Braava for mopping; you can get an ECOVACS robot with both vacuum and mop functions. So, if mopping is your priority, too, Deebot will be a smart buy.
On the downside, Deebot is a lesser-known brand. Apart from this, it still has much to work on regarding cleaning performance and navigation.
Popular ECOVACS Models
DEEBOT N10 PLUS
Deebot N10+ is the newest vacuum cleaner from ECOVACS and has already become Amazon’s Choice. The N10 Plus has all the smart features of a combo mop and suction cleaner with 60 days of hands-free cleaning. It mops and vacuums in one go, detecting and avoiding carpets. Using LIDAR navigation, sensors, vSLAM based cameras, the robot creates maps faster and generates the most efficient cleaning paths. You can set in the application schedules, no-go zones, invisible walls, and no-mop zones.
Deebot N10+ has a 52000mAh battery; the runtime in the quiet mode is 330 minutes and 200 minutes in standard mode (sweep or sweep&mop). The charging time is 6.5 hours.
This Deebot has a powerful suction power of 3800 Pa, which is enough to remove dirt and dust even from high-pile carpets. If you have pets, you may purchase a rubber brush instead of a floating main brush to collect long hair. Both brushes are easily cleaned from hair and dirt. The robot has an OZMO mopping system with four water levels to avoid water leaks and over-wetting. Your carpets are protected with ultrasonic sensors that automatically stop mopping and boost the suction power.
When the robot comes to the station, automatically, in 20 seconds, the dust will be emptied into a 2.5l dust bag; the noise level is about 81 dB. But you can choose other modes for dust collection; there are five modes – 20 minutes, 25 minutes. 35 minutes, auto or not empty: The disposable dust bag (four –layers) ensures the trap of pollen and allergens; it holds them for eight weeks. The dust bin in the robot has a multi-layer filter: an antibacterial layer (E11) captures 95% of dust larger than 0.3 microns, an activated carbon layer, and antibacterial agents.
DEEBOT X1 OMNI
Deebot X1 OMNI is one of the most advanced cleaning systems from Deebot, including all state-of-the-art features available at ECOVACS. This robot comes with a pioneer of all hands-free All-in-One Station. It comes straight after the X2 OMNI, which was introduced on the market in 2023. The X1 OMNI robot simultaneously sweeps and mops with the most powerful Deebot suction in 5000 Pa and with the rotation of mopping pads up to 180 timers per minute for deep cleaning.
All-in-One OMNI Station from the package includes solutions for hands-free cleaning of mopping pads and dustbin cleaning. The bin will be automatically emptied in the station with 21 kPa suction power, and the dust can be stored for 60 days (3 L capacity). The water tank will be refilled from a 4 L clean water tank.
The dirty water will be collected in a 4 L dirty water tank. After all, mopping pads will rapidly dry with hot air to prevent bacteria and odor.
TrueMapping 2.0 Laser Navigation builds 3D maps that are 4 times more accurate than previous models and makes it ten times faster. Deebot will scan the home to find the most efficient and fastest cleaning paths. It navigates in a way that prevents missed spots.
Deebot X1 OMNI also has unique intuitive control YIKO – the patented Deebot technology – in addition to Alexa and Google Assistant. So, this model is the most expensive from the review in this article, but is on discount, as X2 OMNI has appeared.
DEEBOT T10 Omni vs. T20 Omni
These two models, Deebot T10 and T20 OMNI, are the closest competitors to the X1 OMNI. Their main difference is suction power – 5000 Pa vs. 6000 Pa (T10 vs. T20). Both models have an all-in-one OMNI station to suck and hold the dust for up to 75 days in the sealed 3 L bag, efficient auto mopping pads cleaning and drying with hot air. The T20 cleans with hot water (131 F) to prevent odors and kill bacteria and allergens, while T10 cleans with cold.
AIVI 3.0 allows it to recognize the obstacle and avoid them 16 times faster using AI, in its memory is 30 household objects. T20 OMNI has OZMO Turbo 2.0 controlling mopping pads for rotation during cleaning and lifting on carpets (9 mm). T10 does not have a lifting pad feature, while the rotation system is the same (180 r/min and 6N high-intensity download feature). These robots can climb up to 20 mm of the carpet or step; for bigger heights, they are equipped with sensors to prevent falling.
Even though, T10 and T20 OMNI have three water adjustment levels. T20 and T10 have different runtimes in sweep & mop mode. T20 works for 220 minutes in silent mode, while T10 works for only 180 minutes. T20 works 170 minutes in standard mode, while T10 only 150 minutes.
Moreover, T10 and T20 also differ in the capacity of dust boxes and filters. These cleaners use built-in Yiko AI voice assistants, or you can use Siri, Alexa, or Google Home for control. The smartphone application allows you to set all schedules, housekeeper modes, and virtual boundaries. T10 has an additional feature to live monitor your cleaning process and pets with a 2-way camera.
Deebot X2 OMNI
Deebot X2 OMNI is the most advanced robotic vacuum cleaner in the ECOVACS family. It combines all features of X1 OMNI and T20 OMNI, meaning it has an all-in-one OMNI station and effective vacuuming and mopping. Its OMNI station performs auto hot mop washing, hot air drying, dust emptying, and water refill. All processes ensure the whole month of hands-free cleaning. It is controlled with the same options: a smartphone app, YIKO voice assistant 2.0 (improved version), and other voice control devices. The two-way camera for video calls is available for home monitoring in real-time.
The X2 has the slimmest design on the market for robotic vacuum cleaners – 95 mm (3.74inches) – to go under sofas, cupboards, and beds; and the narrowest design – 320 mm (12.6 inches) – to reach all tight corners. The extra-long brush 200 mm on the bottom and one edge-sweeping brush give no chance to the hidden dirt.
Deebot X2 OMNI has the most powerful suction from the reviewed models – 8000 Pa, and in the boost mode on carpets, it can achieve even 27000 Pa. It mops and vacuums simultaneously, and on carpets, raise the mop by 15 mm to prevent low and mid-pile carpets from wetting. The mopping characteristics are identical to T10 and T20 OMNI – OZMO Turbo 2.0.
The enlarged 6400 mAh allows cleaning in sweep silent mode for up to 212 min on a single charge. In Standard mode on hard floors, it mops and vacuums for 143 minutes, equaling 202 m2. Fortunately, it also charges 45% faster than X1. Moreover, the X2 incorporates the Dual-laser Lidar navigation to detect obstacles in a radius of 10 m and to do it more precisely. It also has AIVI 3D 2.0 with upgraded RGBD sensors for dynamic adaptation to your home.
Roomba Models vs. Deebot Models: How They Stack Up
In this segment, we are going to do a head-to-head analysis of some of the top models, Ecovacs vs. iRobot. So, without further ado, let’s get straight to business.
Best All-Round: Deebot X2 OMNI vs. Roomba Combo j9+
verdictSo, the Roomba Combo j9+ has smarter features to clean stubborn messes, while the Deebot X2 Omni provides a hands-free cleaning experience for months. Deebot is also preferable for larger homes as its dustbin and water tank are larger along with the runtime.
The same price: Roomba j7+ vs. ECOVACS DEEBOT T9+
While Roomba j7+ gives you many smart suggestions for cleaning, periodicity, and targeting the dirtiest spots, Deebot T9+ cleans in tidy rows, giving the possibility only to select cleaning rooms and adjust suction power and water levels. The most essential difference between these two cleaners is that Roomba j7+ can only vacuum, while T9+ can mop and vacuum simultaneously. Additionally, the T9+ has a larger battery and an air freshener. J7+ still possesses the auto dirt disposable station and cleans while you are out.
verdictWe recommend Deebot T9+ for large homes with heavy traffic; you can purchase a mop and vacuum cleaner for the same price. But for pet owners, Roomba j7+ is preferable due to POOP’s promise to avoid all types of obstacles and anti-tangled multi-surface rubber brush.
Best Mid-Range Option: Roomba Combo j7+ vs. T20 Omni
Roomba Combo j7+ and Deebot T20 Omni are recommended mid-range mop and vacuum cleaners. They have all the features of smart robots – precise navigation, easily created customizable maps, obstacle avoidance, and cleaning recommendations. Roomba additionally has Dirt Detect Technology to focus on the dirtiest spots, while T20 has two side brushes to clean better tight corners. Both cleaners have a Base station with dirt storage, but T20 additional washes and dries mops, and performs self-cleaning. But a retractable arm of Roomba j7+ protects your carpets better than only 9 mm pads lifting.
verdictFrom the maintenance point of view, T20 is a better option; also, it has higher suction power to perform better cleaning of carpets and hard floors. Moreover, the T20 is equipped with a built-in voice control system Yiko. But it will not create personalized schedules like Roomba Combo j7+ and notify about hazards.
Main Differences Between Brands and Models?
The Deebot vs Roomba battle is one that is hard to call. This is because each one of them has something unique to offer. While Roombas are known to be reliable regarding floor vacuuming (mop function is pretty new, with few reviews so far), Deebot offers mopping, making it an exciting robot cleaner that doubles up as a robot mop. Besides, Deebot introduced a new OMNI station – 15-in-1.
If you have pets and are on a budget, I suggest you get the Roomba i4 EVO or Deebot T8. The duo retails for just about $300. If you can step up your budget, I recommend the j7, which offers just the same performance as the pricey s9. The 10x more air power and HEPA filters will pick up all the pet hairs, dander, and even allergens. In case you want a Deebot, the N8 Pro will be a great choice as it is affordable, offers 2-in-1 cleaning, and boasts a range of smart features.
On the other hand, if you have carpet floors, the Roomba S9 is the ultimate vac for the job, but then it is costly. This makes the Deebot X1 OMNI a great alternative, as it retails not so expensive. In addition, it has been built to handle different fabric types, so unlike the Roombas, it won’t disregard some carpet fabrics.
The Roomba j7, j6, j9, S9, and i4 EVO will be great deals for large apartments. If you can manage the budget without feeling a pinch, you should go for this. Besides the longer runtimes, these vacuum cleaners have a resume function that sends the vacuum back to cleaning immediately after recharging. The T10, N10, T20, and N8 Pro+ are also good alternatives, even with more powerful suction. They have a longer runtime and intelligent navigation and floor mapping. In particular, the T10 and T20 have enhanced mapping and obstacle detection.
If you have a hardwood floor, I strongly recommend any Deebot models with a mopping function and the new Romba Combo j9+ or j7+. One of the significant problems with hardwood floors is cleaning them. You may vacuum it with the best Roomba, but the grime and stains will still remain. As much as you can mop this dirt with your rug and water, hardwood floors get damaged by water, so all mopping robots will clean this floor with a bit of water and dry it immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roomba vs Deebot: which vacuum has a longer run time?
Why is Deebot more expensive than Roomba?
Does the Ecovacs robot map your house?
Why is hot washing better than cold washing of pads?
Wrap Up
Finding a winner in the competition, Ecovacs vs. Roomba, is not so easy. It is clear that the mop function in Deebot and, most importantly, their OMNI stations are a serious concern for Roomba. However, as much as iRobot has been dominant, more Americans are now inclined more toward the affordability of Deebot than the reliability of Roomba.
How things will shape up, it’s time that will tell, but so far, so good; we are likely to see ECOVACS taking a share of Roomba’s market.
