There’s a very good reason that the brand name ‘Roomba’ has become well known across households across the world. The manufacturers were the first to place their brand on a revolutionary device that had a mind of its own. Even the earlier models were able to work there their way out of a corner – and find those hidden places that would require cleaning – all with some simple preprogramming by their human hosts. Today the Roomba – and other models from different manufacturers are very different from those original models – and a quantum leap more advanced.

So can Roomba still compete – or has the company been overtaken by others who play in the same place as the innovators. Let’s take a look.

Roomba still have the products that can go head to head with the best in the market. So what is among the best Roombas.

The Roomba 960 is perhaps the best example of a combination between value for money and functionality. The latest of the models have that famed three stage suction combined with an advanced brush system. It can handle both low carpets and tiles or even hardwood / synthetic wooden floors. This model is now much more powerful than the original models that hit the market in 2002. It can now eliminate 99% (or so the manufacturer claims) or dust bourne allergins. However, it still may require filter changes at regular intervals.

The latest models will return to their home charging stations to make sure that they keep up the charge that makes them able to perform at their best throughout a 24 hour period. As an added bonus this model also takes instruction from an Echo device.

For a better combination between value for money and functionality, there is always the 690 model. This model features a slightly lower amount of suction power – but also does retail some of the customization options that have always made the Roomba such as the legendary Roomba indestructibility. The trade-off is that lack of power – but unless you require the functionality is required for deep pile carpeting it may not be an issue. This model still has Alexa and Google Assitant which makes it so much more functional for the modern networked small household.

The Roomba e5 is particularly well suited for those who have pets in their houses. It may be better for those who have houses that have tiles and wood floors – either natural or plastic laminate. Once again Alexa and Assistant functionality come as standard. The price point of well below $300 is particularly attractive.

Roomba has been a market leader for well over 15 years. Given the quality of the products – and their position as market leaders as far as technology is concerned they are well positioned to maintain their position for the foreseeable future. The best Roombas boast an ironclad guarantee as far as reliability is concerned. The question is whether you need a Roomba – if you need a low maintenance option for keeping your floors in pristine condition – then you simply cannot find a better option.