When it comes to high-end robotic vacuum cleaners, two popular models that often come to mind are the iRobot Roomba i7 7150 and the iRobot Roomba 981. Both of these roombas are designed to provide a seamless and efficient cleaning experience, but they have some key differences that set them apart.

Navigation and Mapping

One of the main differences between the two models is their navigation system. The iRobot Roomba i7 7150 comes with a more advanced navigation system called Imprint Smart Mapping, which allows it to learn and adapt to the layout of your home over time. This means that the robot can create a detailed map of your space and navigate through it with ease, even in complex environments. In contrast, the iRobot Roomba 981 uses a more traditional navigation system that relies on sensors and algorithms to avoid obstacles and find its way around.

Suction Power

Both roombas are equipped with powerful suction systems, but the iRobot Roomba i7 7150 has a slightly higher suction power of 1800 Pa, compared to the 1700 Pa of the iRobot Roomba 981. This means that the i7 7150 is better suited for homes with thick carpets or pet owners who need to deal with a lot of hair and dander.

Cleaning Performance

In terms of cleaning performance, both roombas are excellent at picking up dirt, dust, and debris from hard floors and carpets. However, the iRobot Roomba i7 7150 has a slightly larger dustbin capacity of 500ml, compared to the 400ml of the iRobot Roomba 981. This means that you'll need to empty the dustbin less often with the i7 7150.

Voice Control and Smart Home Integration

Both roombas are compatible with popular smart home systems like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to control them with voice commands. However, the iRobot Roomba i7 7150 has more advanced smart home integration features, including the ability to schedule cleanings and receive notifications when the job is done.

Battery Life

The iRobot Roomba 981 has a slightly longer battery life of up to 120 minutes, compared to the 90 minutes of the iRobot Roomba i7 7150. However, both roombas are designed to automatically return to their charging docks when they need to recharge, so you don't have to worry about them running out of power mid-clean.

Price

Finally, there's the issue of price. The iRobot Roomba i7 7150 is generally more expensive than the iRobot Roomba 981, with a price tag of around $800-$1000 compared to the $600-$800 of the 981.

In conclusion, both the iRobot Roomba i7 7150 and the iRobot Roomba 981 are excellent choices for anyone looking for a high-end robotic vacuum cleaner. However, if you're willing to pay a premium for advanced features like Imprint Smart Mapping and increased suction power, the i7 7150 may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you're on a budget and still want a reliable and efficient cleaning experience, the 981 is a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your specific needs and preferences when it comes to these advanced roombas.