The Roomba brand is renowned for its exceptional robot vacuums, but the high cost can deter those new to the robotic vacuum world. Fortunately, iRobot has just unveiled an upgraded version of its affordable Essential line, boasting hands-free cleaning capabilities and double the cleaning power.
The revamped Roomba Combo 2 Essential and Roomba Vac 2 Essential both come equipped with iRobot’s AutoEmpty dock and a redesigned bumper for seamless navigation across your floors.
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“Since the introduction of the initial Roomba Essential series earlier this year, customers have commended the robots for their user-friendly interface and efficient floor cleaning at an affordable price,” stated Barry Schliesmann, iRobot’s chief product officer. “With enhanced power and the convenience of self-emptying, the Roomba Combo 2 Essential and Roomba Vac 2 Essential offer an unmatched blend of cleaning effectiveness, reliability, simplicity, and value.”
The iRobot Roomba Combo 2 Essential boasts easy setup with precise navigation in rows to thoroughly cover cleaning areas. It incorporates a four-stage cleaning system comprising a bristle brush, edge-sweeping brush, reusable microfiber mop pad, and double the suction power compared to earlier models.
Similar to pricier Roomba variants, the Roomba Essential line utilizes iRobot OS intelligence for personalized cleaning schedules and automated cleaning while you’re away.
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The AutoEmpty dock can store dust and debris for up to two months, eliminating the need to empty the dustbin after each cleaning. The Roomba Combo 2 Essential is priced at $425, while the Roomba 2 Vac Essential costs $400 (currently $350 on Amazon), with the main distinction being the mopping feature. Both models can be controlled via the iRobot Home app or voice commands through compatible smart assistants like Google, Amazon Alexa, or Siri Shortcuts.