iRobot Roomba 985 Reviews: See Why 0 Shoppers Rated It 0 Stars!

iRobot Roomba 985 Review: A Versatile Robot Vacuum for Pet Owners and Large Homes

In the world of automated home cleaning, the iRobot Roomba 985 stands as a reliable contender designed specifically for those with pets and larger living spaces. Released in 2015 as part of the well-regarded Roomba 900 Series, this robotic vacuum combines advanced navigation capabilities with powerful cleaning performance. On paper, it offers an array of smart features and sensors tailored to boost efficiency, all while maintaining a user-friendly interface, making it a notable option for anyone seeking an automated cleaning solution with practical capabilities.

Specifications and Core Features

The Roomba 985's dimensions and weight are thoughtfully optimized, measuring just 13.9 inches in width and depth and standing 3.6 inches tall, while weighing 8.4 pounds, making it compact enough to maneuver under most furniture yet substantial enough to house robust components. The shell is fashioned from durable plastic finish material, contributing to its lightweight design and ease of handling.

Based on its engineering data, navigation employs a clever mix of camera-based navigation and adaptive random pathfinding navigation type complemented by simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) support. This means the vacuum intelligently maps and navigates a single floor, aided by obstacle detection and virtual walls; features that enable customization of cleaning zones and restricted areas.

Powering the machine is a 3300 mAh Li-Ion battery offering a maximum runtime of up to 120 minutes on a full charge, which takes about three hours on its standard dock. Add to that smart charging control and automatic recharge with resume functionality, and you have a setup that can conveniently handle larger cleaning jobs without user intervention.

Cleaning-wise, the Roomba 985 shines with a hybrid main brush system and an edge-cleaning mode designed for precise cleaning along walls and corners. The vacuum also features an impressive dirt pickup rate of 99% and 95% efficiency in edge coverage, supported by carpet detection sensors that automatically boost suction when needed; ideal for multi-surface environments within pet-friendly homes (floor type compatibility).

Design & Build

The Roomba 985 presents a sleek black finish, making it unobtrusive in most modern homes. Its low profile and modest footprint allow it to navigate under furniture with 0.5-inch ground clearance, while its transparent rear dustbin of just over 20 ounces capacity enables quick visual checks and timely emptying, although automatic emptying features are absent.

Structurally, it employs flame-retardant materials and complies with UL and IEC safety standards for battery certification, instilling a level of trust regarding operational safety. Weighing slightly over eight pounds, it strikes a balance between portability and stability.

Performance

From a performance standpoint, the vacuum leverages its intelligent sensors to optimize cleaning. The inclusion of cliff sensors, bumper sensors, and anti-collision systems minimizes the risk of falls or damage, while its ability to detect carpets prompts an automatic suction increase, although exact suction power figures are undisclosed. Carpet heights up to 0.5 inches and obstacles up to an inch are negotiated effectively.

While it lacks mopping capabilities, its 99% maximum dust retention efficiency backed by a dual-layer HEPA filtration system supports an anti-allergen environment; a crucial trait for pet owners or allergy sufferers. The dustbin's back placement helps maintain clearance and suction efficiency.

Smart Features & Connectivity

The robot's smart home integration features are robust, supporting app control and compatibility with popular voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, Real-time map updates and scheduling options combined with multi-user support enhance household convenience. However, real-time mapping and advanced object recognition are missing, limiting its ability to dynamically adjust to changing floor plans or furniture rearrangements.

Its ecosystem allows for scheduling and maintenance alerts, and remote monitoring ensures users can stay informed and intervene when necessary. Particularly notable is the vacuum's virtual walls and room recognition features, which empower users to tailor cleaning routines precisely.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Effective carpet boost and edge-cleaning modes
• Strong battery life with 2-hour max runtime
• Comprehensive app and voice assistant support
• High dust retention efficiency with HEPA filtration
• Safety certifications ensure trustworthy operation

Cons

• No mopping functionality or multi-floor mapping
• Absence of fast charging and wireless charging support
• Limited obstacle recognition and real-time mapping features
• Dustbin capacity could be larger for very large homes

Price & Value for Money

Currently priced around $499.99 at Amazon.com, the Roomba 985 offers solid value given its comprehensive feature set and robust one-year warranty period. The durable build, camera navigation, and long battery life contribute to this valuation. While it misses some newer bells and whistles like real-time mapping or fast charging, the model's trusted cleaning aptitude and smart home compatibility make this a sound investment for users focused on effective cleaning rather than having the absolute latest tech.

Quick Take

In short, the Roomba 985 is a dependable vacuum that excels at maintaining floors in pet-friendly and multi-surface homes. Its smart navigation and efficient filtration underscore its utility, although the lack of mopping and advanced mapping suggest it may be more suited to users prioritizing vacuuming over all-in-one floor care.

Closing Recommendation

The iRobot Roomba 985 may be ideal for pet owners and those with large single-floor homes who seek reliable vacuuming with smart features. Its sophisticated sensors and HEPA filtration help users achieve allergen control and consistent cleaning results, even though it doesn't integrate mopping or multi-floor management. Overall, it appears to perform best in straightforward layout environments with a strong emphasis on vacuuming performance and safety certifications.

Verdict

Rating: Based on the specifications and overall feature set, we believe iRobot Roomba 985 deserves 4.2 out of 5.

• Winner Feature => Intelligent camera navigation paired with strong cleaning efficiency.
• Needs Improvement => Absence of mopping function and advanced multi-floor mapping.