The most affordable iRobot Roombas now come with a self-emptying option starting at $400.
That’s one less task on your to-do list.
The Roomba Combo 2 Essential and the Roomba Vac 2 Essential feature an innovative self-emptying system that empties their dust bins, a function that was not present in the previously launched budget models by iRobot. The Combo 2, which combines vacuuming and mopping functions, costs $424.99, making it slightly more expensive than the Vac 2, which is limited to vacuuming and is available for $399.99. The latter is offered at "selected retailers" in North America, such as Target and Best Buy, and retains similar features to the Combo 2, except for the lack of mopping functions.
This new Combo 2 becomes the most expensive option within iRobot's Essential line, surpassing the price of the DreameBot D10 Plus, which is currently one of the best choices in the affordable vacuum and mop category. Both models stand out for their charging station that allows for automatic bin emptying, a battery lasting up to 120 minutes, and the capability to perform cleaning routines that can be initiated automatically, manually from a button on the robot, through the mobile app, or via voice commands using compatible smart devices with Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant.
Once the cleaning routine is complete or when the battery is nearly depleted, the Combo 2 automatically returns to its AutoEmpty base, where the contents of its dustbin are transferred to a bag designed to hold up to 60 days' worth of dirt. Additionally, this bag has a self-sealing system that makes its replacement and disposal easier.
The mopping capabilities of the Combo 2 require a bit more attention. The charging base cannot automatically refill the tank that moistens the reusable microfiber mop, and rugs must be removed manually during routines that involve water, as the Combo 2 cannot retract its mop when transitioning from hard floors to carpets.
iRobot claims that the new Combo 2 has “100% stronger” suction compared to the Roomba Combo Essential, providing cleaning for up to 120 minutes on a single charge. However, the company does not specify which of the four suction power levels will provide that duration. At its maximum power, the cleaning routine may last less than two hours.
Additionally, the navigation of the Combo 2 is not as advanced as in the more expensive Roomba models. This robovac uses “specialized sensors” and an “enhanced bumper” to navigate obstacles, moving randomly throughout the room. While it can show a visual map of its route through the iRobot app, it cannot create 3D maps of the spaces, which limits its ability to identify areas that have already been cleaned.
