Roomba vs. Dyson – Differences, Pros, Cons & Applications

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Roomba and Dyson are known today as the most technologically advanced vacuum cleaner brands on the market. Their overriding principle: to continuously adapt to the realities of the time. If there is a new development in technology, it is only a question of speed who claims it first for their product development.

Both Roomba and Dyson vacuum cleaners deserve to be called the most powerful and highest quality vacuum cleaners. However, the respective areas of use differ greatly and range from pet and family households to larger companies. Why this is so, and where they still have their limitations, we want to find out in this article.

Roomba vs. Dyson – the Basic Differences

First of all, the different target groups of both brands and their individual conception have to be mentioned. While Roomba exclusively represents self-working service robots, Dyson mainly has hand, stick and floor vacuum cleaners in its range. Thus Roomba, a brand of iRobot, focuses on automated and self-determined cleaning by its working machines; largely without your intervention. Dyson, on the other hand, manufacturer and brand at the same time, assumes that you want to take the time for the household and take care of it yourself.

The product width and depth also differ. Seventeen different models are currently available from Roomba, plus a few mopping robots and a combi device. Dyson presents only one service robot but in addition nine cordless stick vacuum cleaners, two floor vacuums as well as a household helper specially designed for pet households. In addition, Dyson also carries other products, for example from the categories of hair care and indoor climate; thus, the expert status in a certain product category almost seems to get lost a little.

The technological basis – a common ground with different goals

Known for its expertise in cyclone technology is primarily the global technology company Dyson. Cyclone vacuum cleaners work according to the system of a centrifugal separator, whereby a multi-cyclone vacuum cleaner, as the name already tells you, has several cyclones. It thus filters out larger dirt particles than a single cyclone. Due to the strong suction power, such types of vacuum cleaners are also particularly efficient on uneven surfaces and more stubborn textile floors.

The function of the robots is similar, but primarily the artificial intelligence comes to the fore. They are more computers than vacuum cleaners that you can program according to your wishes and make them your personal service provider. Since there’s a lot more computer technology in smart appliances than in manual vacuum cleaners (voice assistance, time control, connectivity with other robots, and other features), there’s significantly less room for actual vacuuming technology. One consequence of this is that the self-propelled home appliances are a bit heavier compared to stick vacuums and take a lot more time to clean all your living spaces.

In short, it turns out: If you are a leisure lover and like to do without the household, then service robots are a better choice for you. In manageable apartments and houses, they take the work completely off your hands and you can devote yourself to more important things with a clear conscience. Depending on the living situation, however, it is more advisable to reach for the manual and usually more powerful counterpart at regular intervals.

Roomba Robots: Benefits and Advantages

Roomba i7*

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Connectivity with other service robots is one of the manufacturer’s most innovative achievements. The rolling computers “talk” to compatible devices in their vicinity while cleaning. For example, your vacuum cleaner can tell a mopping robot that it has done its duty.

This article lists the most popular Roomba models that are compatible with Alexa: Does my Roomba have Wi-Fi and does it work with Alexa? +List

Roomba vacuums are especially efficient on hard surfaces such as tile, wood and vinyl floors, as well as short-fiber carpets (such as runners). Thanks to the equipment with cleaning brushes for corners and edges, they reach into almost every nook and cranny and the rubber brushes also carry coarser dirt into the collection bin. In operation, they are comparatively quiet, but still audible.

Another advantage is the suitability for households with allergies in terms of suction. In contrast to hand, stick and floor vacuum cleaners, the power is lower, which means that the dust is not stirred up unnecessarily. Since robots suck in dirt from below, they also prevent this by their housing, which directly covers the suction point. In addition, low models also clean under your sofas or chests of drawers; areas that you would otherwise only be able to clean with a stooped posture and with effort.

Depending on the accessories, you can also set up a “no-go zone” in the living area, which your robot avoids thanks to the detection sensors (very practical for stairs or feeding stations for pets). Various accessories and spare parts are available directly from the manufacturer as a set, but are usually included with the initial purchase.

Hurdles and challenges

Due to the extensive integrated computer technology, the useful roommates have to accept losses and the manufacturer compromises. Robots are excellent for the daily cleaning of smooth floors – for a less frequent cleaning procedure or extreme soiling, the rubberized brushes sometimes do not keep up. Compared to floor, stick and hand vacuums, robots are weaker on suction, which prevents dust from swirling up – however, not all models empty themselves, so you’ll face challenges again as an allergy sufferer.

If there are stairs in your home, depending on the model, the robot may “miss” them and fall down. In such cases, it is advisable to set up a “no-go zone” with a Virtual Wall Barrier. Once set up, the surrounding area remains untouched. However, some of these stand-ups are battery-operated. If the batteries gradually run out, you will be faced with the same situation: the robot may crash. You should also keep in mind that an Internet connection may be required depending on the model. If you lose your connection, your Roomba will wander and use up battery power and suction unnecessarily.

Special features

  • Smart vacuum cleaner with advanced computer technology
  • Artificial intelligence lets robots “learn” and adapt to your daily life and habits
  • Compatible with all Google Home and Alexa-enabled devices
  • Reliably tracks cleaning schedules
  • Own weight between 3 kg and 4 kg
  • Running time from 60 to 75 minutes
  • Charging time between 1.5 and 3 hours
  • Volume varies depending on model: 52 to 71 dB
  • Volume of the collecting vessel at 400 to 600 ml
  • maximum cleaning area between 60 and 160 m² depending on model
  • P.O.O.P. service: if the robot cleans your pets’ impurities when it should not, you will receive a new product free of charge.
  • Plus products have a collection container and are self-emptying
  • Dirt Detect Technology
  • AeroVac system
  • Virtual Wall Barrier
  • Cleaning areas and frequency programmable via app
  • Washable dust collectors
  • Save by buying bundles: vacuum and mopping robots in one package

Dyson Vacuum Cleaner: Benefits and Advantages

Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Lightweight*

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On carpeted floors, special strength is sometimes required, which is provided by cyclonic technology. While the floor vacuum cleaner resembles the classic concept and you have to drag a large housing behind you (which has a correspondingly large capacity), upright vacuum cleaners are particularly compact and slim product types, whose housing you also carry, but do not feel in terms of weight. This makes vacuuming much easier and they only take up a little space when stowed away.

Dyson’s manual devices have different attachments, which makes them very flexible. You can shorten or lengthen them, the suction power can sometimes be adjusted to three levels (depending on the floor type) and they allow you to clean around corners with an articulated attachment. Dyson has also addressed the individual needs of home and business owners by launching powerful machines for industrial and commercial use. As a business owner, you enjoy the leasing option here. Unlike Roomba robots, Dyson promises a two-year warranty – including repair and materials.

A robot that usually stands alone and works slower can only keep up with Dyson’s adjustable manual vacuum cleaners in terms of efficiency to a limited extent. Although they are technically and electronically specially developed for hard floors (laser), the strength is also convincing on carpets all along the line. Their suction power was measured according to EN IEC62885-4, no. 5.8 and 5.9.

Hooks and disadvantages

If the thought of housekeeping terrifies you, the manual Dyson machines will be less than satisfactory. While vacuuming is comparatively effortless, you still have to invest the time. The manual and floor vacuums still bring a certain amount of noise with them, which can be very unpleasant for both humans and animals. On top of that, the sometimes clunky housings, even though they don’t weigh much, are unwanted eye-catchers.

Another challenge is the price, because you won’t find a really “cheap” Dyson model. Even with the few available bag models (discontinued models) only rarely has anyone joy; because in addition to the constantly necessary replacement and the purchase of new bags, they lose after a few uses in suction power.

The next question is whether to buy a battery-powered model or a corded vacuum cleaner. The latter makes you inflexible and you have to run back and forth several times to change the socket. The suitability of most devices for allergy sufferers is also suboptimal.

Features of the Dyson models

  • 60 to 120 minutes runtime (120 minutes when using two batteries)
  • ECO mode: 60 minutes of constant suction power
  • Adjustable suction strength, according to need
  • Quick conversion from stick vacuum cleaner to hand vacuum cleaner
  • Stick vacuum cleaners are cordless
  • Vacuum cleaner with Ball technology and washable filter
  • Robot vacuum cleaner with location-independent control (Dyson Link app) and intelligent SLAM vision system
  • HEPA filter systems
  • Laser technology
  • Cyclone technology, Radial Cyclone or Radial Root Cyclone – depending on model
  • LCD display
  • Equipped (depending on the model) with electric brushes, different attachments and joints,
  • Very low weight

Comparison of the Areas of Application

Pets live in every second to third household

Depending on the intended use, your vacuum cleaner should have different technical features. Especially for pet owners, a particularly high performance is essential. In the case of Dyson, laser technology ensures the detection of the smallest particles; together with the high suction power, this is an excellent choice for keeping the house and apartment free of pet hair. Unfortunately, however, such devices are accompanied by a certain amount of noise.

Opposite the Dyson V15 Detect* is the e-series Roomba robot*, which was also developed for pet households. It costs almost half – but it also has this half in terms of capacity and power. On carpeted floors or pet furniture (baskets, scratching posts), you’ll sometimes need to help with a lint roller – or opt for an adjustable upright vacuum from Dyson, such as the V11 Absolute Extra Pro*. The upright vacuums are very easy to convert into a handheld vacuum without sacrificing performance.

Top vacuum cleaners for pet owners at a glance

Vacuum cleaners for trade and industry

Dyson presents specially developed devices for industrial and commercial businesses as part of its corporate range. Whether workshop or car park: while the V15 Detect has a highly efficient HEPA filter system and its thorough cleaning is scientifically proven, the V11 Absolute adapts to the floor conditions with individual adjustment options.

Due to the strength of the devices, even picking up sticky dirt is no longer a challenge. For such demands and particularly stubborn tasks, the V11 Absolute also brings the necessary power. A slightly earlier generation should also not be ignored: the Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute* from 2018.

With Roomba, on the other hand, the focus is once again on independence: although the robots are less powerful, they are much quieter and less disruptive. They are primarily recommended for offices and can also perform their services during meetings or phone calls. On the other hand, they are unsuitable for uneven outdoor floors, as their rubber rollers do not reach into the smallest bumps and grooves to pick up dirt. Moreover, they tend to block in case of small obstacles.

Suitable models for companies

  • Dyson V15 Detect*: the scientific proof of thorough cleaning – don’t give the health department a chance
  • Dyson V11 Absolute*: with replaceable second battery for twice the runtime, ideal for open-plan offices and boardrooms
  • Dyson Cyclone V10*: disposes of dirt in a particularly hygienic way, popular in doctors’ surgeries and hospitals
  • Dyson Cynetic Big Ball Multifloor 2*: completely maintenance-free and noise-reduced
  • Roomba s9+*: with XXL bin, convenient for high-traffic offices and lots of customer contact

Ideal roommates

Inconspicuous, small and quiet – robots could almost pass for pets themselves. They don’t attract attention, clean up after themselves and know where to find their “food”. But the best feature of these electronic roommates is that they definitely don’t leave any dirt behind. They are especially convincing on flat surfaces.

If you know how, you can schedule your robot to work at the exact times of day when you’re out of the house. Even if you don’t hide your robot in a closet, it’s still compact enough to be easily overlooked in the smallest apartment.

The large devices from Dyson, on the other hand, are different: They already stand out due to their extravagant design and are rather the proverbial thorn in the eye in private and well-kept living areas. The volume makes vacuum cleaners based on cyclone technology only suboptimal for quiet-loving people.

Excellent vacuum cleaners for private households

Related Questions

What is the main basis for the purchase decision?

Primarily according to the type of floor and its condition, then according to your living conditions such as pet ownership, children, the level of daily contamination and your own requirements. Technically, it is mainly the suction power, volume and runtime.

What kind of vacuum cleaners are suitable for allergy sufferers?

Basically the bag vacuums, since you don’t come into contact with the dirt when emptying them. If you do not want to get new bags, then a low suction power is helpful so that the dust is not stirred up. Robots are preferable here. HEPA filters with H14 classification are also ideal.

What’s in it for Roomba and what’s in it for Dyson?

First, Dyson has its own approach for corporate customers and offers a leasing option. In case of a purchase, the manufacturer promises a two-year warranty, which is very limited with Roomba. Also, there is nothing to indicate a separate concept for entrepreneurs at Roomba. In terms of customer service, both brands score well, with corporate customers getting a little “more” with Dyson. Roomba stands out positively with its P.O.O.P. promise for pet owners.

Conclusion

As a homeowner or small office business, service robots will make you happier in the long run. They’re great for mostly smooth surfaces and do the job completely, which is why they’re popular in homes and apartments alike.

It’s a different story for large businesses and buildings where many people congregate every day. A single robot can’t do much here and would consume more energy and electricity costs than a handful of employees with correspondingly powerful Dyson models. In any case, keep the price/performance ratio in mind. If you believe Moore’s Law, the processing power of a computer (robot vacuum cleaner) doubles about every two years while the price remains the same. Especially here, you have to keep an eye on the technical aspects and the age of the device, while the only question with Dyson is whether the devices are still represented in terms of maintenance.

Attention: When installing electronic equipment, please be sure to observe the manufacturer’s safety instructions. You have to take care of your own safety. The information on this site only helps you to learn.
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