iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ and Roomba Combo i5+ combine vacuum and mopping features

Introducing the iRobot Roomba Combo j5+ and the Roomba Combo i5+, the latest additions to iRobot robot vacuum and mopping devices. These models offer a more budget-friendly option compared to the premium Roomba Combo j7+ (approx. $640 / £899 on Amazon), achieving cost savings by omitting a key feature present in the top-tier iRobot robot vacuum model.

At first glance, the Roomba Combo j5+ closely resembles the Roomba Combo j7+, but iRobot has made strategic cuts to bring down the price. The notable difference lies in the absence of the robot arm, a component that automatically folds the mopping pad when, for instance, only vacuuming or traversing carpets is desired.

In the j5+, users need to swap out the dust container for a combination container accommodating both water and dust, featuring an integrated mopping pad. This module can hold 210 mL of water and 360 mL of dust. Unlike certain high-end competitors, the wiping pad requires manual replacement and cleaning. Equipped with a front-facing camera and LED light, the j5+ scans the home, detecting objects like socks to navigate around them.

Additionally, the dust container can be vacuumed automatically through the base station, minimizing user effort to change the station’s dust bag periodically. The Roomba Combo i5+ shares similarities with the j5+ but lacks a camera, consequently foregoing object recognition. However, it can still create a basic map of the user’s home, allowing selective vacuuming of individual rooms.

For creating “no-go zones,” a feature that prevents the iRobot robot device from vacuuming specific areas, the i5+ requires physical barriers placed on the floor. In contrast, the j5+ allows users to set up these zones conveniently via the app.

iRobot robot vacuum Combo i5+ & j5+ price and availability

The iRobot Roomba Combo i5+ is already available for purchase on Amazon.com at the price of $499.99. As for the Roomba Combo j5+, it is priced at $784.99 and can also be acquired through Amazon.com.