Robot vacuums have always fallen short of our expectations. They may clean up after us to some extent, especially when it comes to pet hair, but they often come with their fair share of issues. They can be noisy, glitchy, and sometimes fail to clean effectively. However, iRobot is set to revolutionize this perception with its latest flagship product – the Roomba Combo j9+.

Replacing the Combo j7+, the Roomba Combo j9+ is an all-in-one vacuum and mop with a self-emptying base. It incorporates obstacle avoidance features and comes with Roomba’s “P.O.O.P. Promise,” ensuring that it avoids picking up pet accidents. Additionally, the Combo j9+ employs an integrated mop system that lifts the mop when encountering rugs, preventing dirty water from spreading.

Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Combo j9+ addresses some of the previous model’s limitations. One notable improvement is in mopping functionality. While the Combo j7+ performed basic mopping, the Combo j9+ takes it a step further by scrubbing back and forth with added pressure. According to Roomba, this method is twice as effective as before.

Another enhancement is in the tank auto-fill feature. Unlike the Combo j7+, which required manual filling, the Combo j9+ dock automatically fills the tank with cleaning solution. With enough solution to last for 30 days, it eliminates the inconvenience of frequent refills. Moreover, the charging base of the Combo j9+ has a more aesthetically pleasing design and offers storage space for additional dust bags and mop pads.

The Combo j9+ boasts improved intelligence with its “Dirt Detective” feature. It scans the home, identifies the dirtiest areas, and prioritizes cleaning those first. It also remembers high-traffic spots, optimizing future cleaning runs to tackle them effectively.

Noise reduction was another area of focus for iRobot. The Combo j9+’s docking base operates quietly, a significant improvement from the loud noise produced by the Combo j7+.

However, the advanced features of the Combo j9+ come at a cost. Priced at $1,399, it is undeniably expensive. Nevertheless, if you are seeking a highly autonomous and advanced robot vacuum and mop that can deliver thorough cleaning, the Combo j9+ may be worth the investment.