The robot vacuum market is dominated by three major players: iRobot (Roomba), Shark, and Roborock. Each brand has its strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will help you decide which brand is right for you.

iRobot Roomba: The Established Leader

iRobot Roomba j7+ - $599

Rating: ★★★★ 4.3/5 (1,247 reviews)

iRobot has been making robot vacuums longer than anyone else, and it shows. The Roomba j7+ is the flagship model with industry-leading obstacle avoidance, pet waste detection, and the best app experience. The build quality is exceptional, and customer service is responsive.

Pros: Reliability, brand reputation, excellent app, self-cleaning brush, obstacle avoidance, pet-focused features

Cons: Higher price points, limited mopping compared to competitors, proprietary technology limits customization

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Shark: The Value Player

Shark AI Ultra - $479

Rating: ★★★★ 4.2/5 (1,567 reviews)

Shark offers solid performance at more competitive prices than iRobot. The AI Ultra includes both vacuuming and mopping, self-emptying capability, and smart home integration. For people who want premium features at mid-range prices, Shark delivers.

Pros: Good value, mopping included, self-emptying, strong suction, carpet detection, good app integration

Cons: Newer brand with less established reputation, fewer customization options, occasional reported connectivity issues

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Roborock: The Innovation Leader

Roborock S8 Pro Ultra - $1,099

Rating: ★★★★ 4.4/5 (856 reviews)

Roborock is a Chinese brand that's rapidly gaining market share with innovative features and powerful performance. The S8 Pro Ultra is the most feature-rich robot vacuum available, with mopping that rivals traditional mops, advanced cleaning algorithms, and multiple integration options.

Pros: Most powerful suction, innovative features, excellent mopping with hot water, multiple docking options, highly customizable

Cons: Most expensive, steeper learning curve for app features, less established customer service in some regions, may be overkill for smaller homes

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Best Budget Option: Shark offers better value than Roomba at the same price point, with mopping included.

Best for Reliability: iRobot Roomba has the longest track record and best customer service history.

Best for Features: Roborock offers the most advanced technology and customization options, though at premium prices.

Best for Pet Owners: iRobot Roomba j7+ with pet waste detection is still the best option, though Shark and Roborock handle pet hair adequately.

Best for Mopping: Roborock S8 Pro Ultra's hot water mopping surpasses both Roomba and Shark mopping capabilities.

Which Brand to Choose?

  • Choose Roomba if: You have pets, prioritize reliability, or want the best app experience
  • Choose Shark if: You want good value with mopping included and don't mind a newer brand
  • Choose Roborock if: You have a large home, want advanced features, and are willing to pay premium prices

All three brands make quality robots. Your choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and home size. Start with the Roomba for reliability, consider Shark for value, and invest in Roborock if you want the absolute best performance.