Roborock S8 Pro Ultra vs. iRobot Roomba Combo j9+

Robot vacuums have evolved into must-have home essentials, offering effortless cleaning with advanced navigation and mopping capabilities. Leading the pack are the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and iRobot Roomba Combo j9+, two high-end models designed to tackle dirt, dust, and pet hair with powerful suction, smart mapping, and self-cleaning technology.

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is built for deep cleaning, featuring dual roller brushes, high-precision LiDAR navigation, and an advanced mop-lifting system that adapts to different floor types. It’s an excellent choice for homes with varied surfaces and high-traffic areas.

Meanwhile, the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ takes a hybrid approach, seamlessly switching between vacuuming and mopping while leveraging iRobot’s PrecisionVision navigation for obstacle avoidance. It’s particularly well-suited for homes with pets and mixed flooring. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which smart vacuum is the best fit for your home and lifestyle.

Starting Price & Warranty

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Roborock S8 Pro Ultra:

• Currently listed at $1399 on us.roborock.com
• Warranty: Comes with a 1-year limited warranty, with options to purchase extended coverage.

Robot Roomba Combo j9+:

• Currently listed at $499 on www.irobot.com/
• Warranty: Includes a 1-year limited warranty, with extended warranty options available for an additional cost. 

Verdict:

The Roomba Combo j9+ is the more affordable option, offering hands-free dirt disposal and smart navigation, but requiring manual water refills and mop cleaning. The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra, while pricier, delivers a fully automated experience with an all-in-one dock that empties the dustbin, refills water, and washes and dries the mop. If you want a cost-effective, high-performing vacuum, the Roomba is a great choice, but for maximum convenience and automation, the Roborock is worth the investment.

Design, Docking, & Maintenance

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Roborock S8 Pro Ultra:

• Sleek, modern design available in Black and White with a premium matte finish that resists smudges and fingerprints.
• Circular shape with a low-profile build for smooth navigation under furniture.
• All-in-one docking station with full automation, including:
  • Auto-emptying dustbin to reduce manual bin emptying.
  • Self-cleaning mop system that washes and dries automatically.
  • Auto-refilling water tank to keep mopping functionality uninterrupted.
• Advanced sensors for obstacle avoidance and efficient room mapping.
• Maintenance reminders via the Roborock app to keep the device running optimally.

iRobot Roomba Combo j9+:

• Classic Roomba circular design with a Charcoal Gray finish and a durable, robust frame for long-term reliability.
• Clean Base Auto-Empty docking station automatically disposes of dirt and debris for up to 60 days, reducing frequent manual emptying.
• Manual water refilling required for mopping, unlike Roborock’s auto-refilling feature.
• PrecisionVision Navigation ensures effective obstacle detection and optimized cleaning paths.

Verdict:

Both models are well-built and designed for convenience, but their docking and maintenance features set them apart. The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra offers a fully automated cleaning experience, reducing manual upkeep with its self-cleaning mop, auto-refilling water tank, and auto-emptying dustbin.

The Roomba Combo j9+ provides a reliable, smart cleaning system with a hands-free dust disposal solution, but requires manual intervention for mopping maintenance. If you want a completely hands-free experience, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is the superior choice. If you prioritize long-term dirt disposal automation and don’t mind manual water refills, the Roomba Combo j9+ remains a strong contender.

Cleaning Performance

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Roborock S8 Pro Ultra:

• 6,000 Pa suction power for deep cleaning on carpets, rugs, and hard floors
• DuoRoller brush system with dual rubber rollers to minimize hair tangling and improve debris pickup
• Sonic mopping technology scrubs floors at high frequency for better stain removal
• Automated mop lifting to prevent wetting carpets while transitioning between surfaces

Robot Roomba Combo j9+:

• 4,500 Pa suction power designed to lift dirt, dust, and pet hair from various floor types
• Rubberized dual brush system to enhance debris collection and reduce clogging
• Fully retractable mop lifts off the ground completely when cleaning carpets to avoid moisture buildup
• PrecisionVision Navigation detects different surfaces and adjusts cleaning modes accordingly

Pet Hair Cleaning Capabilities

• Roborock S8 Pro Ultra: is designed to efficiently handle pet hair with its DuoRoller brush system, which minimizes tangling and improves pickup on both hard floors and carpets. Its 6,000 Pa suction power ensures embedded pet hair is lifted with ease, while the self-cleaning dock automatically empties collected hair, reducing manual maintenance.

• iRobot Roomba Combo j9+: is well-equipped for pet owners, featuring dual rubberized brushes that actively prevent hair entanglement. Dirt Detect technology enhances suction in high-shedding areas, making it particularly effective for homes with multiple pets. Additionally, its auto-emptying bin stores collected pet hair in a self-sealing bag, limiting the need for frequent manual cleaning.

Verdict:

Both the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ offer high-powered cleaning and effective pet hair management, but their strengths cater to different needs.

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra provides stronger suction (6,000 Pa), advanced mopping, and automated maintenance, making it ideal for homes with hard floors, deep-cleaning needs, and minimal manual upkeep. Its DuoRoller brush system efficiently handles pet hair, and the self-cleaning dock reduces daily maintenance.

The Roomba Combo j9+ is better suited for carpeted homes and pet owners, with its dual rubberized brushes and Dirt Detect technology, which optimize pet hair pickup in high-shedding areas. Its fully retractable mop prevents carpets from getting wet, and the auto-emptying bin simplifies upkeep.

If you want maximum suction power, deep cleaning, and a hands-free experience, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is the better choice. If you prioritize pet hair control, carpet-safe cleaning, and a more budget-friendly option, the Roomba Combo j9+ is the ideal pick.

Navigation & Smart Features

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Roborock S8 Pro Ultra:

• LiDAR-based PreciSense Navigation: Utilizes advanced LiDAR technology to create precise maps of your home, enabling efficient and systematic cleaning paths.
• Reactive AI 2.0 Object Avoidance: Employs artificial intelligence to identify and circumvent common household obstacles, reducing the risk of collisions and entanglements.
• Multi-Floor Mapping with No-Go Zones: Supports mapping for multiple floors and allows users to designate restricted areas, ensuring personalized and controlled cleaning sessions.

Robot Roomba Combo j9+:

• iRobot OS with Smart Room Mapping: Leverages iRobot’s operating system to build detailed maps, enabling targeted cleaning and room-specific scheduling.
• Dirt Detect Technology for High-Traffic Areas: Automatically identifies areas with concentrated dirt and debris, adjusting cleaning intensity for optimal results.
• Advanced Object Detection for Improved Navigation: Utilizes sensors to recognize and navigate around obstacles, enhancing cleaning efficiency and preventing mishaps.

Verdict:

Both models offer sophisticated navigation and smart features. The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra’s combination of LiDAR mapping and AI-driven obstacle avoidance provides a slight advantage in navigation precision and obstacle detection. However, the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ excels in adaptive cleaning, particularly in high-traffic areas, making it a strong contender for dynamic home environments.

Battery Life & Charging

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Roborock S8 Pro Ultra:

• Powered by a high-capacity battery, the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra delivers up to 180 minutes of continuous operation, making it ideal for large homes or extended cleaning sessions.
• Self-Recharging: Automatically returns to its docking station when the battery is low.
• Resume Cleaning: After recharging, it picks up where it left off, ensuring a thorough and uninterrupted cleaning cycle.

Robot Roomba Combo j9+:

• The Roomba Combo j9+ provides up to 115 minutes of runtime, though actual duration may vary depending on floor type, suction level, and cleaning mode.
• Auto-Recharge: Automatically docks itself when the battery runs low.
• Smart Scheduling: Adjusts charging cycles based on user preferences, ensuring efficient energy use and cleaning optimization.

Verdict:

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra outperforms in battery life, making it the better choice for larger homes or areas requiring prolonged cleaning sessions. The iRobot Roomba Combo j9+, while offering a shorter runtime, is sufficient for medium-sized spaces and benefits from smart scheduling features that optimize charging efficiency. Both models support automatic recharging and resume functions, ensuring seamless cleaning with minimal user intervention.

App Control & Integration

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Roborock S8 Pro Ultra:

• iOS & Android compatible – Control via the Roborock app
• Custom Cleaning – Set schedules, monitor progress, and create no-go zones
• Multi-Floor Mapping – Ideal for multi-story homes
• Voice Control – Works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri for hands-free operation

Robot Roomba Combo j9+:

• iOS & Android compatible – Controlled via the iRobot Home app
• Smart Mapping – Learns & remembers your home layout for optimized cleaning
• Personalized Cleaning – Room-specific schedules & custom recommendations based on user habits
• Voice Control – Supports Alexa & Google Assistant for easy command execution

Final Verdict

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Both the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ are high-end robot vacuums designed to provide hands-free cleaning, but they cater to different user needs.

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra stands out with its stronger suction (6,000 Pa), advanced LiDAR navigation, and fully automated docking station, making it the best option for users who want minimal manual upkeep. It is ideal for larger homes with mixed flooring that require deep cleaning and efficient mopping. The self-cleaning mop, auto-refilling water tank, and DuoRoller brush system reduce maintenance, making it a truly hands-free solution. Additionally, longer battery life (180 minutes) ensures extended cleaning sessions without interruption.

The iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ excels in smart automation and adaptability, making it a strong choice for homes with carpets and pet owners. Its Dirt Detect technology, rubberized dual brush system, and fully retractable mop ensure efficient cleaning without wetting carpets. The Clean Base Auto-Empty system allows up to 60 days of hands-free dirt disposal, reducing dust exposure. The iRobot OS with Imprint Smart Mapping and learning-based recommendations makes it a great option for users who prefer a self-adapting, automated cleaning experience.

Which One Should You Choose?

• Choose the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra if you prioritize deep cleaning, advanced mopping, and full automation with minimal maintenance.
• Choose the Roomba Combo j9+ if you have pets, prefer smart automation with learning-based features, or need a vacuum optimized for carpeted homes.

Ultimately, both models are top-tier options, but the decision depends on whether you want maximum automation and cleaning power (Roborock) or intelligent, pet-friendly automation (Roomba).

FAQs

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Which robot vacuum is better: Roborock S8 Pro Ultra or iRobot Roomba Combo j9+?

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is best for those who want full automation, stronger suction (6,000 Pa), and advanced mopping capabilities. Meanwhile, the Roomba Combo j9+ is optimized for homes with carpets and pet hair, featuring a dual brush system and Dirt Detect technology for more efficient debris pickup.

Is the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra or Roomba Combo j9+ better for carpets?

The iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ has a fully retractable mop, making it better suited for carpets.

Is the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra or Roomba Combo j9+ better at obstacle avoidance?

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra uses advanced LiDAR PreciSense navigation and AI-powered obstacle avoidance, making it better at precise mapping and maneuvering around furniture. The Roomba Combo j9+ uses PrecisionVision navigation and smart mapping, which adapts cleaning based on usage patterns but lacks AI-based object avoidance.

How does the battery life compare between the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and Roomba Combo j9+?

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra lasts up to 180 minutes on a single charge, while the Roomba Combo j9+ runs for approximately 115 minutes. This makes the Roborock better for larger homes, while the Roomba is ideal for small to medium-sized spaces.

Do the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and Roomba Combo j9+ integrate with smart home devices?

Yes, both vacuums work with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice commands. The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra also supports Siri Shortcuts, offering broader compatibility for Apple users.

How easy is it to maintain the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra compared to the Roomba Combo j9+?

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra requires less manual maintenance due to its self-cleaning mop, auto-refilling water tank, and auto-emptying dustbin. The Roomba Combo j9+ needs more upkeep since it requires manual mop cleaning and water refills but offers automatic dirt disposal for up to 60 days.

How do the docking stations compare between Roborock S8 Pro Ultra and Roomba Combo j9+?

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra offers a fully automated docking station that empties the dustbin, washes the mop, and refills the water tank, making it virtually maintenance-free. The Roomba Combo j9+ features a Clean Base Auto-Empty dock for dirt disposal but requires manual water refilling and mop cleaning.

3. Which vacuum is better for pet hair: Roborock S8 Pro Ultra or Roomba Combo j9+?

Both models perform well, but the Roomba Combo j9+ has an edge for pet owners with its rubberized dual brushes that prevent hair tangling and Dirt Detect technology, which boosts suction in high-shedding areas.

Can I wear the Oura Ring 4 while lifting weights?

Yes, the Oura Ring 4 can be worn during weightlifting, but users should be cautious when handling heavy weights, barbells, or dumbbells. Since the ring is made of titanium with a PVD or DLC coating, it is scratch-resistant but not scratch-proof. Prolonged exposure to metal-on-metal contact, such as gripping weights, kettlebells, or pull-up bars, may cause wear and tear over time.

For users who frequently lift weights, Oura recommends wearing the ring on the non-dominant hand and avoiding exercises that involve direct pressure on the ring. Some users opt to remove it during heavy lifting to prevent damage while still using it for sleep tracking, heart rate monitoring, and daily activity tracking.

Is the Roborock S8 Pro Ultra worth the higher price over the Roomba Combo j9+?

The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra is worth the investment if you prioritize automation, strong suction, and advanced mopping. The Roomba Combo j9+ is a more budget-friendly choice, especially for pet owners and carpeted homes. If you want a fully hands-free experience, Roborock is the better option.