Choosing between a Shark and Roomba robot can be daunting. Both vacuums come from reputable companies, clean exceptionally well, and offer one of the best features on the market. If you’re torn between the two brands, worry no more.
This Shark vs Roomba guide will help you decide which brand to go for, and which specific model fits your needs.
To start us off, some information about the available models for each brand.
Contents
Shark vs Roomba – Specific Models
Here are some direct comparisons, for people that want some quick info:
Shark ION R87 vs Roomba 675
| Shark ION R87 | iRobot Roomba 675 | |
|---|---|---|
| Looks |  |  |
| Dimensions | 12.8 x 12.6 x 3.5 inches | 13.4 x 13.4 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 5.4 lbs | 7.8 lbs |
| Suction power | 17 CFM | 7 CFM |
| Battery voltage | 14.4 V | 14V |
| Ampere hour | 2550 mAh | 1800 mAh |
| Charge time | 3 hours | 3 hours |
| Autonomy | 60 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Filtration | non-HEPA | non-HEPA |
| Movement algorithm | Auto-Sense (random) | Intelligent Navigation (random) |
| Bin capacity | 19 oz | 10 oz |
| Noise level | 70 dB | 72 dB |
| Warranty length | 1 year | 1 year |
| Country of manufacture | China | China |
| Price | $100.32 | $249.99 |
Shark IQ R101 vs Roomba i7
| Shark IQ R101 | iRobot Roomba i7 | |
|---|---|---|
| Looks |  |  |
| Dimensions | 12.8 x 12.6 x 3.5 inches | 13.34 x 13.26 x 3.63 inches |
| Weight | 5.7 lbs | 7.44 lbs |
| Suction power | 23 CFM | 7 CFM |
| Battery voltage | 14.4 V | 14.4 V |
| Charge time | 4 hours | 3 hours |
| Autonomy | 90 minutes | 75 minutes |
| Filtration | HEPA | HEPA |
| Movement algorithm | IQ NAV (vSLAM) | iAdapt 3.0 (vSLAM) |
| Bin capacity | 19 oz | 17 oz |
| Noise level | 70 dB | 68 dB |
| Warranty length | 1 year | 1 year |
| Country of manufacture | China | China |
| Price | $299.99 | $499.99 |
Shark IQ 101AE vs Roomba i7+
| Shark IQ 101AE | iRobot Roomba i7+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Looks |  |  |
| Dimensions | 12.9 x 12.6 x 3.5 inches | 13.34 x 13.26 x 3.63 inches |
| Weight | 5.7 lbs | 7.44 lbs |
| Suction power | 22 CFM | 7 CFM |
| Battery voltage | 14.4 V | 14.4 V |
| Charge time | 4 hours | 3 hours |
| Autonomy | 90 minutes | 75 minutes |
| Filtration | HEPA | HEPA |
| Movement algorithm | IQ NAV (vSLAM) | iAdapt 3.0 (vSLAM) |
| Bin capacity | 7 oz | 10 oz |
| Noise level | 70 dB | 68 dB |
| Warranty length | 1 year | 1 year |
| Country of manufacture | China | China |
| Price | $407.19 | $799.00 |
Shark IQ 101AE vs Roomba s9+
| Shark IQ 101AE | iRobot Roomba s9+ | |
|---|---|---|
| Looks | |  |
| Dimensions | 12.9 x 12.6 x 3.5 inches | 12.2 x 12.2 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 5.7 lbs | 8.15 lbs |
| Suction power | 22 CFM | 23 CFM |
| Battery voltage | 14.4 V | 10.8 V |
| Charge time | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Autonomy | 90 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Filtration | HEPA | HEPA |
| Movement algorithm | IQ NAV (vSLAM) | iAdapt 3.0 (vSLAM) |
| Bin capacity | 7 oz | 13 oz |
| Noise level | 70 dB | 68 dB |
| Warranty length | 1 year | 1 year |
| Country of manufacture | China | China |
| Price | $407.19 | $799.00 |
Roomba Robots Lineup
Roomba robots are made by iRobot, a company that specializes in autonomous cleaning devices. Their products include dry vacuuming robots called Roombas and robot mops under the name “Braava.” iRobot is credited for pioneering a range of robot vacuum technologies, including the now popular (and almost indispensable) self-emptying function.
Roomba robots spread across all levels, from the most basic to pricey, premium models. Currently, the least-priced Roomba collection is the 600 series. Models include the older 614 and the upgraded Roomba 675. Next comes the “e” line where you find the updated Roomba e5. The 800 series comprises the Roomba 890, while the 900 line consists of the recent Roomba 960. Premium models include the Roomba i7 and Roomba s9 (together with their plus versions).
iRobot Roomba robot vacuums in 2020
Shark Robots Lineup
SharkNinja has been on the market for years. Their vacuum cleaner collection is extensive and includes upright, stick, canister, handheld, and robot models. The company mostly focuses on traditional corded uprights and cordless sticks, with only a few canisters, handhelds, and robots. Shark currently sells two main robot lines (Shark ION and Shark IQ), which spread across budget, mid-tier, and high-end models.
Shark’s lineup of both older and newer robots can be divided into the 700, 800, and 1000 series. The 600 series consists of models such as Shark R672 and Shark R675, and Shark R676. The 800 line (Shark ION) comprises the Shark R85 and R87. The R87 is essentially the 85 offered together with a Shark W1 handheld and is no longer on sale. The 1000 or IQ series consists of two models; Shark IQ R100 and Shark IQ R101.
Shark robot vacuums in 2020
Shark vs Roomba Robots – General Features
Shark and Roomba robots are similar in many ways. They also differ in some functions, abilities, and other specs. Here is a look at the features and how they compare.
Style and Design
Robots from either brand are generally circular except the new Roomba s9, which is a D shape to offer better edge and corner cleaning. Shark robots are generally more compact than Roombas, mostly measuring 12.8″ wide and 3.5″ high. Most Roombas are 13″ wide and 3.6″ tall. Only the Roomba S9 measures 12″ by 3.5″, making it comparable to Shark models. With these dimensions, Shark robots are less likely to get stuck. They’re also usually low enough to go under furniture. Roombas are also heavier than shark robots by an average of 2 lbs.
Shark IQ R101AE vs iRobot Roomba s9+
Suction Power – Maximum Suction Power
Budget Roomba robots produce a weak airflow, while premium models are among the most powerful on the robot vacuum market. The 600 and “e” line of Roombas achieve a maximum suction of 7 CFM. Robots in the 900 and i7 series attain 17 CFM at their highest, and the “S” series a little above 20 CFM. All Shark robots produce 20 CFM except the Shark IQ R101 that goes higher than that (but only slightly). Looking at the cleaning power of the two brands, Shark robots outperform Roombas with their consistent and high suction across all models.
Brush Roll – Dirt Extraction
Shark robots use a single full-length brush roll and have a wider cleaning path. Roombas come equipped with two counter-rotating rollers, offering a more effective extraction of dirt. However, that works best when combined with the strong suction of the higher end 980, i7, and S9 Roomba models.
2 brush rolls
To prevent tangles, SharkNinja uses a self-cleaning brush on the premium Shark IQ R100 and R101 models. A comb-like structure positioned along the brush loosens and removes strands of hair, strings, and any other debris that gets caught in the bristles. The self-cleaning brush makes Shark robots almost tangle-free and suitable for cleaning after pets. This feature originates from the Zero-M technology installed on their latest uprights and sticks.
iRobot tackles the problem of hair tangles by removing bristles from the brush roll and making it out of a rubber material. The brushes also feature interlocking teeth, making tangles unlikely and enhancing the pick up of debris.
Although Shark and Roomba robots use different brush designs to improve dirt extraction and resist tangles, they perform almost equally well. Differences in cleaning levels are mostly determined by suction strength, which varies across the models. When it comes to maintenance, you will find the Shark brush roll a little bit more demanding. It has bristles that eventually require cleaning.
Side Brushes
Shark robots are equipped with two side brushes, Roombas one. The brushes are meant to extract the dirt hidden in corners and edges, which means only one side brush will be useful at any given time (and, maybe, the reason why iRobot uses a single one on their robots). But then, two brushes are better than one (Shark believes so) and mean more dirt being swept toward the suction path.
Side brushes on Shark ION S87 vs Roomba s9
Dust Bin – Cleaning and Maintenance
Both Roomba and Shark Robots have sizeable dustbins ranging from 17 oz to 27 oz (0.5 to 0.8 liters). In the lower category, Roombas hold more dirt and suit large rooms. The premium Shark model (IQ R101) has a capacity of only 7 oz (0.2 liters). However, that’s because it comes with an auto-empty function. By comparison, the Roomba s9 with the auto-empty function has a 13 oz bin. The Roomba self-emptying feature comprises of bags to store dirt, which means higher costs to maintain the robot. The Shark function is a canister, and you never need to replace anything.
Shark and Roomba bins
Runtime – Vacuum Duration
Roomba robots generally run for longer periods on a single charge than Shark models. The lower end Roomba 675 and Roomba e5 models clean for 1½ hours, while the premium 960, i7, and S9 Roombas vacuum for 75 minutes. Sharks generally clean for around 60 minutes, which can be attributed to the higher suction that drains the batteries faster.
Despite the longer runtime, Roombas may not attain the more than 60 minutes of cleaning in some situations. The robots are equipped with dirt to detect function, unlike Shark models, and trigger power boost every time there’s more dirt to clean. Runtime, therefore, drops considerably when cleaning high-traffic areas.
Robots from either brand return to the charging station when the battery power drops to critical levels. However, only the premium models resume cleaning from where they left off. On the Shark side, you have the Shark IQ 100 and 101. The Roomba 960, Roomba i7, and Roomba S9 are the only models with the auto-resume function.
Filtration Level
Shark equips its robots with HEPA filters, while iRobot only uses them on selected models: specifically Roomba 960, i7, and S9 models. The filters of Shark robots capture 99.97% of allergens up to a size of 0.3 microns. Entry-level Roombas such as the 675 and e5 models use the dated iRobot’s AeroVac filtration and only retain 99% of particles measuring 10 microns. Shark robots are, therefore, safer to use regardless of whether they’re budget or pricey models. Only premium Roombas are as good as Sharks in this chapter.
Roomba i7 vs Shark ION HEPA filters – pretty much the same quality
Robots from both brands use an array of sensors to find their way around, avoiding obstacles and falls. Entry-level robots from either side clean randomly, while mid-level and premium models offer more specialized cleaning and intelligent camera-based navigation and mapping. You can even divide your home into individual rooms. When it comes to mapping your home, the costly Roombas perform much better than Sharks.
Budget Shark robots that clean randomly include the Shark R72, R75, R76, and Shark ION model R85. Random cleaning Roombas comprise the Roomba 675, 690, and Roomba e5. Going up, robots from either brand use a camera to map your home and clean using straight lines. Models in this category include the Shark IQ 100 and 101 and Roomba 960, 980, i7, and S9.
It’s worth noting the difference in the virtual walls used by the two brands. Roombas use wireless infrared barriers while Sharks come with magnetic strips. The Roomba walls are more easy to set up and can be used for both straight and radial zoning. When you have to shield a circular area such as a pet’s bowl, you will find the radial virtual walls Roomba robots more convenient.
Noise Level
Sharks are generally noisier than Roomba robots, mostly producing noise slightly above 70 dB. They suit small living places, such as studios, where you want a device that cleans quietly. Roombas are good if you have a timid pet and do not want to frighten it with a loud cleaning device. Roombas are known to emit less than 68-70 dB, which may not be too loud, especially if you have a large home.
Price and Warranty
Roombas are pricy robots across all levels. The most premium and recent model, the Roomba S9, is one of the most expensive robots on the market. But Roombas are among the most sophisticated autonomous cleaning devices today, especially the high-end models, which explains the high price tag. Shark robots are more affordable, despite offering powerful cleaning and impressive features at all levels. Robots from either brand are backed by a 1-year warranty regardless of the model.
Shark vs Roomba – Price talk
Given the extent of variations, it would be unfair to place unrelated robots together, so I divided the comparisons into three levels: budget, mid-tier, and premium.
Budget Robots – Affordable Robots
Models: older Shark R672, Shark R675, and Shark R676. Updated Shark ION R85 and R87. Roomba 614, Roomba 675, Roomba 690, and Roomba e5.
Despite being the affordable option, budget Sharks are more powerful than Roombas. They produce a 20 CFM airflow compared to only 7 CFM of the entry-level Roombas. The Sharks win hands down and suit a home with occasional small carpets and area rugs.
Budget Roombas extract dirt better, though. They are equipped with dual counter-rotating brushes, and the ability to detect dirt makes them more effective at cleaning spot messes.
Budget Roombas do not offer adequate protection from allergens, seeing that they do not come with HEPA filters. If allergies are a problem in your home, I would advise you to choose a Shark or go for the Roomba 960 model or higher.
Mid-level Robots
Models: Roomba 960, Roomba i7 and Shark IQ R100
Almost all features are identical from filtration, bin capacity, WiFi connectivity, to auto-recharge and resume. Differences are seen in suction strength, robot profile, and navigation. You get more suction with Shark robots around 17 CFM, but which also means a shorter runtime when compared to the Roomba.
Shark robots lay lower and feature more compact bodies, making them less likely to get stuck under furniture and other tight places. However, the navigation and mapping level of Roombas is better than that of Shark models. The robots use iRobot’s iAdapt and vSLAM technology that offers a more efficient way to create and store a map of your home.
Premium Robots – Expensive Robots
Models: Shark IQ 101, Roomba i7+, and Roomba S9
These are the high-end robots from either side. They come equipped with capabilities similar to those of the mid-tier robots, save for a few additions. Both use the revolutionary auto-emptying of dirt, which relieves you of the need to keep your robot under watch for a filled up bin.
Models in this group also boast of the highest suction (lightly above 20 CFM), which is enough to extract the most stubborn dirt. The Roomba S9 is one of the most expensive robot vacuums today, going for double the amount for a Shark IQ 101. However, it offers one of the best mapping technologies with the ability to store up to 10 different maps.
Final Thoughts
To conclude this Shark vs Roomba article, here are my comments about the best choice. Both Roomba and Shark robots offer impressive cleaning and navigation. However, your choice will depend on your situation. If you’re looking for a pocket-friendly vacuum to clean a studio or apartment home, your best bet would be a Shark robot. You will get powerful cleaning and a quiet device.
For larger homes, I would recommend a Roomba. The suction is impressive, and the cleaning time per battery charge long enough. However, you may need to avoid the entry-level Roombas if a family member suffers from allergies and instead go for the mid-tier or premium models.
If looking for the most sophisticated robot, you won’t get it wrong with the Roomba i7 and Roomba S9. For a robot that auto-empties, these options will be at your disposal: Shark IQ R101, Roomba i7+, and Roomba S9. With the Roombas, you also get the advantage of effective home mapping and scheduling.
Jason Roberts
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