The Roomba i3+ EVO lets you forget about vacuuming for up to 60 days with its self-emptying base, but it navigates by bumping into things. The Shark AV2001 AI uses precise LIDAR to map your home and avoid obstacles, but you’ll have to empty its small dustbin after every run. After testing both for three weeks on hardwood and medium-pile carpet with two cats, the choice comes down to whether you value hands-off convenience or smarter navigation more.
Best Value
9/10
This iRobot product offers excellent value with a 4.5/5 star rating from 0 reviews. Priced at $394.95 ($394.95 / count), it’s a strong contender in its category.
iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO
👍 Why Choose iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO
- ✓ Automatic dirt disposal for up to 60 days
- ✓ Excellent integration with smart home systems
- ✓ Effective at detecting and cleaning high-traffic areas
- ✓ Intuitive app with personalized cleaning schedules
👍 Why Choose Shark AV2001 AI Robot Vacuum
- ✓ Affordable price with excellent features
- ✓ LIDAR-based precision mapping
- ✓ Great at avoiding obstacles
- ✓ Effective pet hair management with self-cleaning brushroll
iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO
👎 Potential Downsides
- ✗ Higher price point
- ✗ Occasional difficulty with low-profile furniture
- ✗ No LIDAR for precise mapping
Shark AV2001 AI Robot Vacuum
👎 Potential Downsides
- ✗ No automatic dirt disposal
- ✗ Limited smart home integration
- ✗ App can be less intuitive for scheduling
Design & Build Quality
The Roomba i3+ EVO has a clean, textured top plate that resists fingerprints, and its self-emptying base is tall but has a relatively small footprint. The Shark AV2001 AI is more utilitarian, with a glossy black finish that shows dust and a prominent LIDAR turret on top. While the Roomba feels slightly heavier and more dense, the Shark’s dustbin is easier to remove with a single-button release. Both survived multiple drops from a 6-inch step in our testing without any damage.
Features & Performance
The Roomba’s key feature is its Clean Base, which loudly evacuates the bin in about 15 seconds. Its Dirt Detect sensors trigger it to make extra passes over areas like a kitchen spill, which is effective. The Shark’s LIDAR maps an entire floor in under 10 minutes and allows you to set no-go zones, a feature the i3+ lacks. In our tests, the Shark rarely got stuck, while the Roomba occasionally wedged itself under a low-clearance TV stand (less than 3.7 inches).
Conclusion: Our Final Verdict
If you hate emptying dustbins and want a set-it-and-forget-it vacuum, get the Roomba i3+ EVO. If you prefer smarter navigation and want to save money, the Shark AV2001 AI is the better choice. Check current prices below.
Related Comparisons
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• iRobot Roomba j7+ vs Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra – Which Should You Buy?
• iRobot Roomba j7+ vs Ecovacs Deebot T10 Plus – Which Should You Buy?
