

By The Tech Guy
If there’s one cleaning gadget turning heads, it’s iRobot’s Roomba j7+. Promising hands-free, hassle-free cleaning, it’s built for pet owners, neat freaks, and busy folks alike. This vacuum offers powerful suction, self-emptying bin, obstacle avoidance, and smart mapping technology that learns your home like a pro.
But is the hype real? Let’s take a closer look at how the Roomba j7+ stands out as one of the best robot vacuums available.
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THE BREAKDOWN
Sleek, Compact, and Full of Surprises
The Roomba j7+ design won’t make you hide it in a closet. Its sleek, low-profile black and gray look blends with any décor. Measuring 13.3 inches in diameter and standing 3.4 inches tall, this little robot easily slips under couches, chairs, and tables.
It comes with a Clean Base dock, which is about the size of a small trash can. This dock serves as the self-emptying station, sparing you from the dreaded task of emptying the bin after every run. It’s also a charging station that keeps the j7+’s battery life at optimal capacity. This design is a significant win for busy households!
The Roomba j7+ doesn’t just look good; it’s thoughtfully designed for functionality, blending tech with an aesthetic appeal. It’s the type of design approach you expect from iRobot’s high-end robot vacuums.
The Tech Specs That Make It Shine
The iRobot Roomba j7+ isn’t just another robot vacuum; it’s one of the best Roombas out there. Packed with impressive features that make cleaning a breeze. Here’s a deeper look into the j7+ features, breaking down what makes this model stand out from other Roomba models.
Self-Emptying Clean Base
One of the Roomba j7+’s standout features is its Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal. Every time it finishes a cleaning run, the Roomba returns to its dock. Once there, it empties its internal bin into an enclosed bag housed within the Clean Base. This system traps dust, pet hair, and allergens, keeping them sealed away for a more hygienic experience. You won’t have to think about emptying it for weeks. And when the bag finally fills, the iRobot app will notify you.
The Clean Base can store up to 60 days of debris, depending on your home’s needs and cleaning frequency. It’s designed to be easy to replace, with no direct dust handling. If you want minimal interaction with vacuum maintenance, this feature is a major win. Easily making the j7+ one of the top self-emptying robot vacuums for smart homes.
Smart Mapping and Multi-Floor Navigation
The iRobot Roomba j7+ uses Imprint Smart Mapping technology to learn the layout of your home meticulously. Perfect for apartments, lofts, small or large homes. It’s capable of storing multiple maps for different levels. Whether you have a two-story home or a mix of rooms with different layouts, the j7+ is up to the challenge. You can set up room-by-room cleaning, choosing specific areas for cleaning based on your needs. This customization allows the j7+ to perform targeted cleaning. This is especially useful for high-traffic areas or rooms that see more mess.
Additionally, you can name specific rooms and zones in the app, making it easy to direct the vacuum to a precise area. Need it to handle just the kitchen after a messy cooking session? A simple app command or voice instruction can handle it.
PrecisionVision Navigation
Unlike many robot vacuums, the Roomba j7+ doesn’t just wander aimlessly. Equipped with a front-facing camera and PrecisionVision Navigation, this robot identifies obstacles in real-time. It’s particularly useful in avoiding pet messes, wires, socks, and shoes, so you won’t come home to a tangled vacuum or smeared debris on your floors.
One unique feature is iRobot’s Pet Owner Official Promise (P.O.O.P.), which guarantees the Roomba j7+ will avoid pet waste. If it accidentally runs over pet waste within its detection abilities, iRobot will replace your vacuum free of charge. This feature adds significant reassurance for pet owners.
The camera works seamlessly with the mapping feature. It creates a highly accurate cleaning path while avoiding obstacles that could interfere with the cleaning process. You can even review photos of obstacles the j7+ encountered in the app and label them for future avoidance, improving accuracy over time.
3-Stage Cleaning System
The Roomba j7+ comes equipped with iRobot’s signature 3-stage cleaning system, upgraded to tackle all types of floors and messes. It combines three powerful cleaning elements:
- 10x Power-Lifting Suction: This advanced suction power is designed to tackle even the most stubborn dirt and pet hair. Compared to the Roomba 600 series, it has 10 times the suction power. Whether it’s crumbs, dust, or hair, the j7+ has no trouble picking it up.
- Edge-Sweeping Brush: Located on the side of the robot, this brush reaches along walls and corners. The areas that are typically harder to clean. It’s designed to sweep debris into the path of the vacuum, leaving fewer missed spots along baseboards and in corners.
- Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes: These two rubber brushes are flexible and self-adjusting, allowing them to handle different floor types. Unlike traditional bristle brushes that can become tangled with hair, the rubber brushes are designed to avoid jams and tangles. These are especially effective for pet owners.
Together, these elements create a powerful cleaning performance that handles both hardwood floors and carpets without missing a beat.
iRobot Home App and Voice Control
The iRobot Home app unlocks a host of customizable features. It allows you to take full advantage of the Roomba j7+ capabilities. Through the app, you can create and manage cleaning schedules, set up specific zones, and receive notifications when the Clean Base needs attention.
You can also schedule the Roomba to clean specific rooms at certain times. If you want it to avoid the bedroom in the early morning, or only clean the kitchen after dinner, it’s as easy as adjusting a few settings in the app. Plus, with iRobot OS updates, your j7+ becomes smarter over time, gaining new features and improved performance.
Voice control options are equally robust. The j7+ integrates with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. If you want a quick spot clean or need the Roomba to start while you’re out, simple voice commands handle it. You can even instruct it to clean just specific rooms by saying, “Alexa, ask Roomba to clean the kitchen,” and it’ll handle the rest.
Customized Cleaning Suggestions
One of the standout features of the iRobot Roomba j7+ is its ability to learn and adapt to your habits. Over time, it analyzes your cleaning preferences and offers personalized cleaning suggestions based on your routines. For example, if it notices that your living room tends to accumulate more dust during the weekends or that pet hair builds up in specific rooms, the app will send you notifications and suggestions for a more targeted cleaning schedule.
These suggestions are also season-sensitive. During allergy season, the j7+ might recommend more frequent cleaning to help keep allergens down. It’s a thoughtful addition, making the Roomba j7+ feel more like a personal cleaning assistant than just another vacuum.
Spot Cleaning on Demand
The Roomba j7+ features an on-demand spot cleaning function, ideal for sudden messes that don’t require a full cleaning run. For instance, if a drink spills or crumbs scatter in a specific area, you can simply tap the “spot clean” button in the app or use a voice command to instruct the Roomba to handle the immediate area.
Unlike traditional vacuums that require setup, this feature lets you quickly clean up without stopping to grab your full-size vacuum. And because the j7+ can clean on demand, it’s an especially handy feature for busy households with kids or pets.
Auto-Clean When You’re Away
With iRobot OS, you can set the Roomba j7+ to automatically start cleaning when you leave the house and stop when you come home. This feature means you can come home to spotless floors without even noticing the Roomba was running. It’s a subtle yet impactful feature that takes the “hands-free” aspect of this vacuum to the next level.
If you have a busy schedule, this option ensures that your floors remain consistently clean with minimal oversight. It’s the ultimate convenience for anyone who wants to keep their home fresh without dealing with constant reminders or app settings.
Each feature in the iRobot Roomba j7+ is designed to provide a high level of functionality and ease. They combine powerful cleaning technology with intelligent software and smart connectivity. Whether it’s the self-emptying dock, obstacle detection, or adaptive cleaning suggestions, the j7+ is built to make everyday life a little cleaner, a little easier, and much more hands-free.
A Cleaning Beast on Every Surface
The Roomba j7+ has serious cleaning chops. Its suction power is leagues above many traditional vacuums, and it doesn’t mess around with dust or pet hair. Thanks to its 3-stage cleaning system, it captures debris from hardwood floors, carpets, and any nooks and crannies in your home.
The edge-sweeping brush is a subtle genius, getting close to walls and corners for a thorough clean. If you have pets, this vacuum is a game-changer. The anti-tangle rubber brushes handle pet hair without jamming, and the powerful suction pulls pet fur and dander up effortlessly.
With PrecisionVision and Imprint Smart Mapping, it navigates around socks, toys, and shoes. This vacuum doesn’t just memorize room layouts—it reacts in real-time. The P.O.O.P. (Pet Owner Official Promise) pledge adds extra peace of mind. If it accidentally encounters pet waste, iRobot will replace your vacuum for free.
A Set-It-and-Forget-It Dream
Using the Roomba j7+ feels like having a tiny housekeeper on call. Once you set it up, you can schedule cleaning sessions or let it start whenever you leave home. There’s no need to babysit it—it goes room-by-room, mapping and learning as it goes.
The self-emptying feature is the real MVP here. Every time the j7+ returns to its Clean Base, it empties its bin, so you don’t have to touch dirt or dust for weeks. And when the bag inside the base fills up, the app will send a reminder for a quick replacement.
Control options are equally seamless. The iRobot Home app lets you customize cleaning schedules and maps or request spot cleaning for accidental messes. Or, if you’re hands-free, a simple command to Alexa or Google Assistant takes care of it.
Worth the Splurge?
The Roomba j7+ is certainly an investment considering it’s list price. But with its design and array of features, you’re getting fantastic value. If you’ve dealt with endless pet hair, dust, and daily messes, this robot will give you time back in your day.
Compared to cheaper robot vacuums, the Roomba j7+ brings more power, better mapping, and self-emptying convenience others don’t offer. Sure, it’s on the pricier side, but considering how much time and effort it saves, many would argue it’s worth every penny.
For me, it certainly does a great job and was well worth the price tag. Having this little beast to keep my home’s main floor clean is incredible.
THE COMPETITION
- Dual Functionality: Vacuuming and mopping in one machine
- Self-Emptying Base: Minimal maintenance and dust-free disposal
- Smart Mapping and Voice Control: Complete control through app, voice commands, or scheduling
- Tangle-Free Brushes: Great for pet owners—no hair clogging here
- Limited Mop Coverage: Works best on hard floors; not ideal for thick carpets
- No Scrubbing Power: The mopping is more of a light wipe rather than a deep scrub
- Requires App for Full Use: Advanced features require the iRobot Home app, which might be a downside for non-app users
The iRobot Roomba Combo i3+ is an efficient and powerful robot vacuum that combines vacuuming and mopping in one device. Designed for households looking to simplify cleaning. It offers self-emptying convenience and smart mapping, making it a highly efficient hands-free option. This model is ideal for anyone who wants to maintain a clean home with minimal effort.
One of the standout features of the iRobot Roomba Combo i3+ is its dual functionality. It can vacuum and mop with the easy addition of its Combo Bin, which holds water or a compatible cleaning solution. Unlike the Roomba j7+, which is strictly a vacuum, the Combo i3+ takes care of both wet and dry messes. This added mopping function makes it particularly suited for homes with hard floors that need extra attention.
The i3+ also boasts a Clean Base dock dust bin that can hold up to 60 days of dirt and pet hair. This makes it perfect for pet owners and allergy sufferers. The Clean Base technology is comparable to the Roomba j7+ and allows users to avoid the hassle of daily bin emptying. Both models feature self-emptying systems, which provide a similar hands-free experience and reduce maintenance.
Smart mapping is another valuable feature of the Combo i3+, enabling room-specific cleaning schedules and directions. With Imprint Smart Mapping, it learns your home layout, allowing users to designate specific rooms for cleaning. This level of customization is a key similarity between the i3+ and the j7+, making it easy to clean precisely when and where you need it.
While the Roomba j7+ is equipped with PrecisionVision navigation for avoiding small obstacles, the Combo i3+ lacks this camera-based navigation but still performs well with dirt detection technology. Dirt Detect focuses on dirtier areas, ensuring a thorough clean in high-traffic zones. This makes the i3+ highly effective in day-to-day cleaning, though it may need more supervision in cluttered areas compared to the j7+.
For users who prioritize a versatile, budget-friendly cleaning option, the Roomba Combo i3+ offers excellent value. It balances the essential features of vacuuming and mopping with convenience and performance. While the i3+ lacks some advanced obstacle-avoidance features of the j7+, its dual cleaning function and self-emptying base make it an attractive choice.
Overall, the iRobot Roomba Combo i3+ is a fantastic cleaning tool that delivers consistent performance for vacuuming and light mopping, providing a high level of convenience for everyday home maintenance.
THE FINAL VERDICT
The iRobot Roomba j7+ goes beyond the basics to deliver intelligent, convenient cleaning. For busy homes, pet owners, or anyone wanting cleaner floors without the hassle, this vacuum is a game-changer.
From dodging pet messes to emptying itself and navigating with precision, the j7+ brings a hands-free cleaning solution that truly works. While it’s an investment, the time and peace of mind you get back make it a top pick. And if it’s your first Roomba, this is truly the best option to add smart cleaning to your home.
Is the iRobot Roomba j7+ Right for You?
If you’re tired of cleaning up after pets, or simply want to keep your floors spotless with minimal effort, the Roomba j7+ is worth serious consideration. Its smart mapping, self-emptying base, and powerful suction make it a well-rounded solution for those ready to invest in convenience.
The j7+ isn’t just a gadget. It’s a reliable cleaning companion that learns, adapts, and saves you time. Keeping your floors as clean as you want without the manual work. If that sounds like a dream, the Roomba j7+ might just be the vacuum upgrade you’ve been waiting for.
THE FAQ
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How does the Roomba j7+ avoid obstacles?
The Roomba j7+ uses PrecisionVision Navigation, which includes a front-facing camera to detect and avoid obstacles in real-time. This feature helps it avoid pet waste, cords, socks, and other objects.
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How does the self-emptying feature work?
The Roomba j7+ automatically empties its dustbin into the Clean Base after each cleaning session. The Clean Base stores the dirt in an enclosed bag, holding up to 60 days’ worth of debris, depending on usage.
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Is the Roomba j7+ compatible with Alexa or Google Assistant?
Yes, the Roomba j7+ works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can control it hands-free by asking it to start, stop, or clean specific rooms.
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How often do I need to replace the bag in the Clean Base?
The Clean Base bag holds about 60 days of dirt, depending on your home’s size and how frequently you use the Roomba. The iRobot app will notify you when it’s time to replace it.
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Does it work on all floor types?
Yes, the Roomba j7+ is designed to handle multiple floor types, including hardwood, carpet, tile, and other hard surfaces. Its rubber brushes adjust to different surfaces for optimal cleaning.
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What’s the benefit of dual rubber brushes?
The dual multi-surface rubber brushes are less prone to tangling with pet hair, making them ideal for pet owners. They flex and adjust to stay in contact with floors, providing a thorough clean on both hard floors and carpets.
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Can I schedule cleaning times?
Yes, you can schedule specific cleaning times through the iRobot Home app. You can even set it to automatically start when you leave and stop when you return.
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How does the Roomba j7+ handle spot cleaning?
The Roomba j7+ can perform spot cleaning via the iRobot Home app or voice command. It’s useful for quick, targeted cleaning in specific areas, like spills or small messes.
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What happens if the battery runs low during cleaning?
The Roomba j7+ will automatically return to its dock to recharge. Once it’s fully charged, it will resume cleaning from where it left off.
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Does it come with a warranty?
Yes, iRobot typically offers a 1-year limited warranty for the Roomba j7+ (coverage may vary, so check with the retailer or iRobot for specifics).
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