In this article we will show you the similarities and differences in the iRobot Roomba 770 vs 870 models.
Although these 2 robot vacuums possess some similar technology, they are vastly different in a number of ways.
The Roomba 870 has made several substantial improvements over the 770 which we believe make it a better choice by far. These include an upgraded motor, extractors, battery, and additional virtual wall infrared sensor. However, these advancements come at a sizable price increase.
If you’re in the market for a robot vacuum, the Roomba 870 is definitely the way to go.
Battle of the Roombas
Similarities
Both of these robot vacuums come equipped with a 7 day programmable schedule. Just use the buttons located on the top of the unit and choose exactly when you want it to clean your floors. The user can also press the Clean button to initiate a cleaning cycle.
The Roomba 770 and 870 can clean virtually any floor surface such as carpet, rugs, tile, laminate, hardwood, and many others. They also have the ability to automatically adjust when they transfer onto a different floor surface.
iRobot’s 3-stage cleaning system is present in both of these robot vacuums. They effectively agitate, brush, and use high-powered suction to thoroughly clean your floors.
Since the circular shape of these Roombas prevent it from getting into corners and other areas, a spinning side brush extends from beneath the unit to access these areas.- Both of these models use a set of integrated optical and acoustic sensors which iRobot refers to as Dirt Detect Series II Technology. These sensors work in unison to seek out areas with high concentrations of dirt. Once discovered, these robot vacuums automatically know to spend additional time there. This allows the vacuums to complete their cleaning cycle in an effective and efficient manner.
- These units have identical dimensions of 13.9″ in diameter by 3.6″ in height and a weight of 8.4lbs. This slim height allows these robot vacuums to get beneath furniture and bedding with ease.
Also equipped in these units are sensors to tell the Roombas when they are approaching a staircase or ledge. They will automatically know to turn around so they do not damage themselves.- The iAdapt Responsive Navigation System present in these robot vacuums inform them of objects within the room its vacuuming. These units will automatically account for any objects and navigate around them.
Included virtual wall infrared sensors tell these robotic vacuum cleaners to stay out of certain rooms. The user simply places them in the doorway of a room they don’t want the Roomba to go into and they will prevent the vacuums from doing so.- When these units are running low on battery or have finished their cleaning cycle, they will automatically return to their docking station to recharge. If they haven’t finished their cleaning cycle before running out of battery, they will resume where they left off.
Differences
- iRobot has upgraded the electrical motor in the Roomba 870. This second generation motor provides up to 50% more cleaning performance and 5 times the power. iRobot has also stated that this motor is far more resilient and will last significantly longer than the first generation motor present in the Roomba 770 and prior.
One of the biggest changes to the 870 are its new rubberized debris extractors. These extractors replace the brush used in the 770 model. They can lift dirt and debris off the floor much more effectively and also require far less manual intervention for things like tangled hair.- The new lithium ion battery in the 870 has about the same battery life of the nickel–metal hydride battery present in the 770. The major difference lies in the number of charging cycles before replacement is required. The 870’s battery can now endure about twice as many charging cycles as its predecessor which translates into significant cost savings, especially when the vacuum is being used on a daily basis.
- Lastly, the Roomba 870 now includes an additional infrared virtual wall sensor. 2 rooms/doorways can be blocked off from Roomba vacuuming.
See a video demonstration on the iRobot Roomba 770:
Below is 1 month review of the iRobot Roomba 870:
What People are Saying
People love both of these robot vacuums and have great things to say about them.
They enjoy not having to push a conventional vacuum around their homes anymore. Furthermore, they like that their house is cleaned on a daily basis.
Those who purchased these vacuum cleaners were initially turned off by the price but after some time with them, they wish they’d bought them earlier. The amount of time these robotic vacuums save are well worth the price to these people.
Many reviews state that maintaining these vacuums are very easy. They just empty the collection bin and change the filter as needed. The Roomba handles everything else on its own.
Although the customer satisfaction rates are high for both of these robotic vacuum cleaners, people tend to prefer the 870 much more.
Reviewers who have owned both units have stated that the 870 is superior to the 770 in virtually every way. It cleans much better with its second generation motor and rubberized extractors.
Users have also stated that the 870 runs significantly quieter than other Roomba models they’ve owned.
Bottom Line
You can’t go wrong with either of these Roomba robotic vacuum cleaners.
They both have tons of rave reviews and do a great job at cleaning your floors.
However, the Roomba 870 is the clear victor. The new motor and rubberized extractors are the most important upgrades to this model. These 2 features allow the Roomba to clean much better than its predecessor. Tests have shown that it lifts notably more dirt and debris with each pass.
Although the 870 is superior in many ways, we recognize that there is a substantial price difference.
With that being said, we think you’re getting a lot for the additional money spent.
In the iRobot Roomba 770 vs 870 battle, we definitely suggest buying the Roomba 870.
Click the following to see their price on Amazon: Roomba 770 or Roomba 870
Please feel free to share or leave comments below!
I love that this vacuum will return to its docking station if the battery is running low. This way it is always ready and you don’t stumble on an uncharged vacuum. I have all hardwood floors and I sweep everyday, this would be the best alternative and save me a chore. Do you know how good it is at sucking up dog hair? I always assumed I would need a heavy duty machine for this, because that is mainly what I have on my floor, chocolate Lab hair 🙂 This might go on my wish list, I am a big fan of all the help I can get around the house. Thanks for the comparison, The Roomba 870 does take the cake in my opinion.
Both robot vacuums will pick up pet hair with ease. But like you said, the Roomba 870 is much better and is definitely our recommendation!
This is such a great time saving device. I haven’t made the plunge in to buy one yet but you give me many reasons why I should. I especially like the extension that gets in to clean corners. Now that I know that this is included, I have no reason to not try this out. How cool to have a clean floor all the time without effort. Its like having a live in maid. Now if I could also get a robot to dust the furniture. If I live long enough, I’ll probably see that option as well. Thanks for the interesting information.
Hopefully we see robots that can take over all of our mundane tasks in our lifetime. Good luck with your vacuum!
What a great niche! I was fascinated by what I read about these robot cleaners, and your detail in explaining all the various features leaves no question unanswered. Lots of good graphics, and the videos are especially helpful. Under the heading “What People Are Saying,” you need to correct the last word in the sentence that reads, “Many reviews state that maintaining these vacuums is very simply.” Keep up the good work. You’ve landed on a great product!
You’re quite welcome. We hope you have a great experience with your robot vacuum. Let us know what you think of it.
Wow, these vacuums are very cool. What a time saver. Turn the thing on as you’re leaving to go to work or the store, whatever, and when you get back your floors are cleaned.
How many square feet will the 870 clean on one charge?How many times can the battery on the 870 be charged?
It wasn’t readily apparent to me if you had a link on your website to purchase one of these machines.
Yes, they are definitely a convenient means to keeping a clean home!
There are no square footage restrictions as these Roombas will recharge themselves and continue their course until cleaning is complete.
Links to purchase these robot vacuums are located on the individual vacuum reviews. These in-depth reviews can be found at the bottom of the page.
Here are the links to the 770 and 870 reviews.
Best of luck!
I have heard about these vacuums but never checked into them until now reading your article. I was not sure how they would deal with going around furniture or dealing with the corners.
Now that I have seen and read your article, it makes better sense to me how they work and what they are doing.
I would say for me the irobot Roomba 870 would be the logical choice. Having twice the battery life time and better cleaning would be the way to go.
Great post and well worth looking into buying one.
That would certainly be a wise choice. The 870 is well worth the additional money.
Let us know how you like it if you wind up buying it.