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Roomba i5 and Roomba i3 both are are high-end robot vacuums with advanced cleaning technology. Roomba i5 is a newer release that improves navigation and adds more advanced cleaning modes. The Roomba i3 is the older and more basic option but remains reliable for everyday cleaning. This comparison will help you quickly understand the differences and decide which one is the better fit for you.
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Mopping-capable-bin:- Roomba i5 features a swappable mopping-capable bin that allows vacuuming and light mopping in one device.
- Roomba i3 does not support a mopping-capable bin.
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Neat-rows navigation:- Roomba i5 has neat-rows navigation that ensures more consistent cleaning coverage in patterned lines.
- Roomba i3 also uses neat-rows navigation but with fewer refinements.
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Smart Mapping:- Roomba i5 supports Imprint Smart Mapping that allows saving maps and setting no-go zones.
- Roomba i3 does not support Smart Mapping.
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Room-specific cleaning:- Roomba i5 has room-specific cleaning that lets users select particular rooms to clean via the app.
- Roomba i3 cannot clean specific rooms on demand.
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Voice-assistant control:- Roomba i5 supports Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri Shortcuts that allow hands-free control.
- Roomba i3 supports Alexa and Google Assistant only.
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Swappable bin modes:- Roomba i5 features swappable bin modes that switch between dry vacuuming and mop-compatible bins.
- Roomba i3 uses only a fixed dry vacuum bin.
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Dirt-Detect:- Roomba i5 includes Dirt-Detect sensors that focus cleaning on dirtier floor areas for better results.
- Roomba i3 also includes Dirt-Detect sensors.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Roomba i5 | Roomba i3 |
|---|
| Navigation | Neat rows with enhanced mapping | Neat rows with standard navigation |
| Smart Mapping | Supports Imprint Smart Mapping | No Smart Mapping |
| Room-specific cleaning | Yes, via app | No |
| Mopping-capable bin | Compatible with swap bin | Not compatible |
| Dirt-Detect | Yes | Yes |
| Voice Control | Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri | Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Auto-Empty Dock Support | Yes (Clean Base compatible) | Yes (Clean Base compatible) |
| Brushes | Dual multi-surface rubber brushes | Dual multi-surface rubber brushes |
| Recharge & Resume | Yes | Yes |
| Bin Modes | Swappable dry and mop bin | Single dry bin only |
Who Should Buy What?Buy the Roomba i5 if you:- Want the option to add a mopping-capable bin for more versatility.
- Need Imprint Smart Mapping for personalized cleaning.
- Prefer room-specific cleaning through the app.
- Use multiple voice assistants including Siri.
- Want a slightly more advanced navigation system.
Check Roomba i5 Best Price Buy the Roomba i3 if you:- Prefer a more budget-friendly option with reliable cleaning.
- Don’t need Smart Mapping or room-specific cleaning.
- Only use Alexa or Google Assistant for voice commands.
- Want a simple vacuum without swappable bin complexity.
- Are upgrading from an older Roomba and want a lower entry price.
Check Roomba i3 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|
| Mopping-capable-bin | Roomba i5 |
| Neat-rows navigation | Roomba i5 |
| Imprint Smart Mapping | Roomba i5 |
| Room-specific cleaning | Roomba i5 |
| Voice-assistant control | Roomba i5 |
| Swappable bin modes | Roomba i5 |
What They Have in Common
- Smart Mapping Technology: Both models use iRobot’s mapping system to learn and adapt to your home layout, ensuring efficient and thorough cleaning.
- Dirt Detect Sensors: Each vacuum features Dirt Detect sensors that recognize high-traffic areas, prompting deeper cleaning where it’s needed most.
- Powerful Suction: Both the i3 and i5 deliver strong suction performance, effectively lifting dirt, debris, and pet hair from carpets and hard floors.
- Voice Assistant Compatibility: Each works seamlessly with smart assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing convenient hands-free control.
- Automatic Recharge and Resume: Both vacuums return to their charging dock when low on battery and resume cleaning once charged, ensuring uninterrupted coverage.
FAQ (Quick Answers)
Does the Roomba i5 support mopping while the Roomba i3 does not?
Yes, the Roomba i5 has a swappable bin that can be replaced with a mopping-capable bin, while the Roomba i3 only supports vacuuming with a dry bin.
Can both models clean in neat rows?
Both the Roomba i5 and Roomba i3 use neat-rows navigation, but the i5 has slightly more refined coverage for consistent cleaning.
Do both vacuums include Dirt-Detect sensors?
Yes, both the Roomba i5 and Roomba i3 include Dirt-Detect technology that focuses on areas with higher dirt concentration.
Does the Roomba i5 have Imprint Smart Mapping while the i3 does not?
The Roomba i5 supports Imprint Smart Mapping to save maps and create no-go zones, but the Roomba i3 does not have this feature.
Can either vacuum target specific rooms for cleaning?
The Roomba i5 can target specific rooms through the app, while the Roomba i3 cleans the entire area without room selection.
Do both models work with voice assistants?
The Roomba i5 works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri Shortcuts, while the Roomba i3 only works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Are both compatible with the Clean Base auto-empty dock?
Yes, both the Roomba i5 and Roomba i3 are compatible with the Clean Base dock that allows automatic bin emptying.
Do they use the same type of brushes?
Both models use dual multi-surface rubber brushes that help reduce tangling and improve debris pickup.
Do both models recharge and resume cleaning?
Yes, the Roomba i5 and Roomba i3 both recharge automatically and then resume cleaning where they left off.
Is the Roomba i5 more versatile than the Roomba i3?
Yes, the Roomba i5 is more versatile because it supports swappable bin modes and smart mapping, while the Roomba i3 is limited to basic vacuuming functions.