iRobot Roomba j9+ vs Roborock S8 Pro Ultra 2026 – Which Should You Buy?
In the world of automated cleaning, the battle between iRobot’s Roomba j9+ and Roborock’s S8 Pro Ultra is fierce, especially for those looking to invest in a reliable robot vacuum. These two titans bring unique features that cater to different types of users. The Roomba j9+ seems to be designed for pet owners or those with varied floor types, boasting an impressive suction power and dirt-detecting capabilities. On the other hand, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra leans towards users who appreciate seamless automation and advanced mopping options, with its all-in-one docking system. To provide an honest comparison, I tested both vacuums over the course of several weeks, focusing on their real-world performance in various home settings, including both carpeted and hard floors, while also considering ease of use and maintenance.
Best Value
9/10
This iRobot product offers excellent value with a 4.5/5 star rating from 0 reviews. Priced at $558.01, it’s a strong contender in its category.
Premium Pick
9/10
This roborock product offers excellent value with a 4.5/5 star rating from 0 reviews. Priced at $445.99, it’s a strong contender in its category.
iRobot Roomba j9+
👍 Why Choose iRobot Roomba j9+
- ✓ Exceptional suction power.
- ✓ Smart Dirt Detective for targeted cleaning.
- ✓ Effective obstacle avoidance.
- ✓ Self-emptying bin lasts up to 60 days.
- ✓ Pet Owner Official Promise for peace of mind.
Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
👍 Why Choose Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
- ✓ All-in-one docking system.
- ✓ Impressive mopping range.
- ✓ Lower price with similar cleaning performance.
- ✓ User-friendly interface.
- ✓ Seamless automation.
iRobot Roomba j9+
👎 Potential Downsides
- ✗ Heavier and slightly bulkier.
- ✗ Higher price point.
- ✗ Limited mopping capabilities.
Roborock S8 Pro Ultra
👎 Potential Downsides
- ✗ Less effective on carpet compared to Roomba.
- ✗ Requires regular maintenance of charging contacts.
- ✗ Limited to 2.4G WiFi connection.
Design & Build Quality
When it comes to build quality, both the Roomba j9+ and the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra feel solid, but there are distinct differences in their design philosophies. The Roomba j9+ has a more robust, utilitarian design that speaks to its focus on powerful suction and dirt management. It feels heavier, which in my experience, translated to a sense of durability. The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra, however, boasts a sleeker, more modern aesthetic, which aligns with its emphasis on seamless integration and advanced docking capabilities. Ergonomically, the Roomba is straightforward, prioritizing function over form, while the Roborock offers a slightly more user-friendly interface, especially when dealing with the dock. In terms of which feels more premium, it’s a close call, but the Roomba’s heft and strong build give it a slight edge in perceived durability.
Features & Performance
In testing the features head-to-head, both vacuums delivered impressive performances but excelled in different areas. The Roomba j9+, with its enhanced suction, was unbeatable on carpet, effortlessly picking up pet hair and dirt, thanks to its Dirt Detective feature that smartly adjusted suction power. Its ability to avoid obstacles, including pet waste, was also commendable. On the other hand, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra shined in its all-in-one dock feature, which took automation to the next level by washing and drying the mop and refilling the water tank. This was particularly useful in my larger rooms, as its mopping range extended impressively far without needing manual intervention. In scenarios where I needed thorough mopping more than vacuuming, the Roborock was the star, whereas the Roomba’s vacuuming prowess was unmatched in more dirt-heavy situations.
Conclusion: Our Final Verdict
For those who prioritize powerful vacuuming, especially in homes with pets or high-traffic carpeted areas, the iRobot Roomba j9+ is the clear winner. Its strong suction and precision obstacle avoidance ensure thorough cleaning with minimal fuss. However, if you’re looking for a more all-rounded cleaning solution that includes advanced mopping capabilities and a focus on automation, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra offers exceptional value, especially for larger homes with extensive hard flooring. Personally, for a mixed environment with both carpet and hard floors, I’d lean towards the Roomba for its superior vacuuming, but for those who want to set it and forget it, the Roborock’s all-in-one features are hard to beat.
