Roomba i3+ vs Shark RV1001AE IQ Comparison Review
Today, we have sophisticated models that have the ability to empty themselves automatically, so you don’t have to worry about having to empty the bin now and then.
Most of the self-emptying robot vacuums are expensive, but still, the market has a few affordable options. In this Roomba i3+ vs. Shark IQ comparison review, find out which is the best option if you are on a budget and want the convenience of automatic self-emptying.
Without further ado, let’s get into it. But first, here’s an overview of the two brands and the respective models.
About iRobot
When it comes to robot vacuums, iRobot is undoubtedly the best brand and the industry’s pioneers, for that matter. The American brand was the first company to offer consumers a robot vacuum that empties itself automatically.
This was the Roomba i7 and i7+, which we have reviewed before. The company, later on, released the Roomba S9 and S9+, which also come with automatic self-emptying. But then, these two models are costly.
Recently, the company unveiled two new affordable models that come with self-emptying technology. These are Roomba i3/i3+ and the Roomba i8/i8+.
In this comparison review, we have the Roomba i3 and i3+ whose equivalent, without the self-emptying technology, is the Roomba 675, a pretty new model.
About Shark
Shark may not be a big robot vacuum brand like Roomba, but then, it’s a brand that has been around for over a century only that it has been focusing on other appliances. Just recently, after the likes of iRobot, ECOVACS, Neato and iLIFE had asserted themselves in the robot vacuums market, Shark made an entry in the industry and quickly rose to the ranks because of their innovation.
It is the second robot vacuum brand that fronted a self-emptying robot vacuum cleaner after Roomba. While the brand had earlier models, there are two new Shark IQ series that have automatic self-emptying bin technology. These are Shark IQ Robot Vacuum AV1010AE and Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL RV101AE.
For this review, we have the Shark RV101AE, which is the affordable option, and more so, it’s within the budget range of the Roomba i3+.
Now that we know a thing or two about these two brands, let’s get into the main business of the day; how does the cheapest Roomba with automatic self-emptying compare to the Shark robot vacuum with automatic self-emptying?
Roomba vs. Shark Comparison
In this segment, we will compare how these two brands based on the important factors consumers consider when choosing the best robot vacuum.
1. Automatic Bin Emptying
As mentioned earlier, this comparison review is based on automatic self-emptying technology. In this segment, let’s find out what the two brands offer. One thing you need to know is that these brands offer two variants for all the self-emptying robot vacuums.
Roomba i3 and Roomba i3+
In the i3 series, we have Roomba i3 (3150) and Roomba i3+ (3550). Both models are compatible with the Clean Base™ Automatic Dirt Disposal technology.
But notably, the base model, Roomba i3, doesn’t come with the Clean Base unit, while on the other hand, the i3+ comes with the unit included. For the record, you can buy the i3 and later upgrade it by buying the Clean Base unit separately.
Clean Base technology enables the robot vacuum to empty itself for 60 days straight automatically.
The Roomba 675, one of Roomba i3’s competition, doesn’t come with a self-emptying function.
Shark IQ
In the Shark IQ series variant in this comparison review, there are two options; Shark IQ RV1001 and Shark IQ RV1001AE. These two models are very similar, save because the Shark IQ RV1001AE comes with the XL Self-Empty Base.
For the record, the Shark IQ RV1001 may not include the XL Self-Empty Base, but then, it works with this new technology, so owners can upgrade it by buying the XL Self-Empty Base sold separately.
Just like Roomba’s Clean Base unit, Shark IQ vacuums with self-emptying will automatically empty themselves and can hold up to 30 days of dirt.
2. Design and Aesthetics
When selecting a robot vacuum, buyers should aim at models with low profile designs to allow them to go under low profile household fittings without any restrictions. It’s also a great idea to go for a model that suits your color taste. In this section, find out how the two brands compare.
Roomba i3 and Roomba i3+
The Roomba i3 and i3+ measure 3.34 x 13.26 x 3.63 inches and weigh 5lbs, of course, without the Clean Base unit.
When it comes to aesthetics, both models are alike.
They have been finished in black and have silver and grey accents on the top interface.
Shark IQ
When it comes to the Shark IQ, we have a similar round shape design, just like Roomba i3, but then, the dimensions and weight vary. It measures 12.9 x 12.6 x 3.5 inches and weighs 5.7lbs.
When it comes to the finish, the Shark IQ RV1001 and Shark IQ RV1001AE have been finished in black and have the Shark logo at the top.
3. Cleaning Performance
The cleaning performance is the single most important consideration when choosing a robot vacuum. These little helpers have been designed to suit different cleaning needs. For that reason, make sure to buy what suits your needs.
Roomba i3 and Roomba i3+
The Roomba i3 and i3+ have been designed to handle homes with bare floors, low to medium pile carpets, and pets.
The robots deploy a 3-stage cleaning system whereby dirt is first agitated, lifted, and lastly, sucked into the bin. This is made possible courtesy of a dual multi-surface brush system and secondary brush, alongside a powerful motor that delivers 10X the power-lifting suction compared to the 600 series robot vacuums.
When it comes to filtration, the i3 uses high-efficiency filters that capture 99% of pet allergens.
It’s also worth mentioning that the Clean Base unit has AllergenLock bags that make sure all trapped allergens don’t find their way back to the atmosphere. The bin has a 0.5L capacity and features a full bin indicator. The Roomba i3 and i3+ come with Dirt Detect Series II.
Shark IQ
Next up is the Shark IQ series models, which share the same features.
Both the Shark IQ RV1001 and Shark IQ RV1001AE use a 3-stage cleaning system and are suited for homes with bare floors, low, medium, and high pile carpets, and pets. They feature a self-cleaning brushroll that agitates dirt and picks up both short and long hair without tangling.
There are also dual-edge and corner brushes that clean dirt on wall edges and deep corners.
When it comes to suction power, Shark uses a powerful 3-speed motor that delivers exceptional suction power in three modes; Eco, Normal, and Max. Just like Roombas, Shark IQ models use high-efficiency filters. It’s worth mentioning that this model comes with a larger bin compared to the predecessors.
4. Autonomy
Robot vacuums come with inbuilt rechargeable batteries. As a buyer, you definitely want a model with the longest runtime and flexible power management options. In this section, find out which of the three robot vacuum models is the best as far as autonomy is concerned.
Roomba i3 and i3+
The Roomba i3 and i3+ are supplied with the 1,800mAh battery. This battery can power the robot for an average of 75 minutes.
The robots will dock for charging automatically and will get full in 3 hours on average. The good thing about the i3 and i3+ is that they both resume cleaning after recharging.
Shark IQ
When it comes to Shark, we see some huge improvements in the runtime and even power management, even though the brand used a 1,800mAh battery just like the Roomba i3 and 675.
Here, the battery offers an impressive 90 minutes runtime. What’s more? Shark IQ RV1001 and RV1001AE will recharge and resume cleaning automatically.
5. Navigation and Mapping
A good robot vacuum should have an intelligent navigation system to allow it to navigate your home without hitting obstacles, falling off the stairs, or getting stuck.
Besides, the mapping should also be up to the mark to ensure efficient, fast, and entire level cleaning. In this segment, find out what each of the vacuums in this comparison review offers.
Roomba i3 and i3+
This model, despite being a new model, uses the old iAdapt 1.0 navigation and mapping technology. The vacuum uses sensors for localization and detecting dangerous spots such as stairs. When it comes to floor mapping and scanning, the i3 and i3+ are still outdated as they don’t have an elaborate cleaning pattern.
That means they can miss some spots in large apartments and also, they take longer to clean. As for boundary marking, the two work with Virtual Walls, but no nodes are supplied.
Shark IQ
Last is the Shark IQ self-emptying robots, which are at least advanced in terms of navigation and mapping.
While they still rely on a SLAM-based algorithm to maneuver around, at least they get stuck or hit obstacles fewer times compared to the Roomba i3/i3+.
The Shark IQ RV1001 and RV1001AE also have an advanced floor mapping system. They clean in a systematic pattern, ensuring that all areas of your floor are covered. What’s more, these two vacuums have a cool feature that identifies each room of your home. That means you can choose the specific rooms that you want them to clean. When it comes to boundary marking, these two vacuums work with magnetic strips.
6. Smart Features and Convenience
If you are looking for smart home connectivity and the convenience it tags along, this section is for you. Find out which models are smart and the convenience features offered.
Roomba i3 and i3+
These two come with 2.4GHz WiFi for smartphone app operation via iRobot Home App and Alexa/Google Assistant compatibility.
Besides, the Roomba i3/i3+ comes with iRobot Genius Home Intelligence which tailors a cleaning experience designed around you. Another great feature is Imprint Link Technology that allows the robot vacuum to sync with the Braava M6 for simultaneous vacuuming and mopping.
Shark IQ
Last is the Shark IQ models; RV1001 and RV1001AE. These two are smart robot vacuums courtesy of 2.4GHz WiFi compatibility. That means they can be operated right from the Shark Home App.
Users can access all the important controls, including the scheduling function and Total Home Mapping, which lets you select the rooms you want cleaned. Besides, Shark IQ vacuums work with voice assistants such as Alexa and Google Assistant.
Wrapping Up
There you have it, folks, a Roomba i3+ vs. Shark IQ comparison review. So, the big question is, which is the best choice?
Well, both models have advantages and disadvantages. If you are looking for a vacuum with self-emptying on a budget, Shark is the best choice.
It also offers better cleaning performance on high pile carpets courtesy of the high suction power. However, if you want a trusted brand, then the Roomba i3 and i3+ will be great choices.
Now, from an expert’s perspective, Shark offers better value for money than Roomba i3 and i3+.
