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When iRobot launched the Roomba i7 in 2018 and S9 in 2019, they represented the cutting edge of robot vacuum technology. But robot vacuum tech moves fast. By 2026, these models are five to seven years old - ancient in this rapidly evolving category.
That doesn’t mean they’re worthless. At the right price, older Roomba models can deliver solid cleaning performance and smart features that still satisfy many homeowners. If you’re undecided about buying used, our guide on whether to buy a refurbished vacuum cleaner covers the key considerations. This guide examines whether the i7 and S9 are still worth buying in 2026, how they compare to newer options, and what you should pay for them.
Important Context: These Are Previous-Generation Models
Before diving into comparisons, understand what you’re buying:
The i7 (2018) and S9 (2019) were revolutionary for their time:
- First Roombas with smart mapping (Imprint Smart Mapping)
- First with self-emptying Clean Base option
- vSLAM camera-based navigation
But technology has advanced significantly:
- 2021: Roomba j7 introduced AI obstacle avoidance (PrecisionVision)
- 2022-2023: LiDAR navigation became standard on competitors
- 2024-2025: Auto-washing mops, advanced AI, self-refilling water tanks
Bottom line: The i7 and S9 are solid robot vacuums, but they’re now mid-range performers at best. Don’t pay flagship prices for them.
Quick Comparison: i7 vs S9
| Feature | Roomba i7 | Roomba S9 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2018 | 2019 |
| Shape | Round | D-shaped |
| Suction Power | 10x base | 40x base |
| Brush System | Dual multi-surface rubber brushes | Dual rubber rollers |
| Best For | All-around use | Carpet specialist |
| Target 2026 Price | Budget refurb | Mid-range refurb |
Detailed Comparison
Design Philosophy
Roomba i7: The All-Rounder
The i7 follows Roomba’s traditional round design, optimized for general home cleaning across mixed flooring. It’s the safe choice - good at everything, exceptional at nothing. The 3.6-inch height allows it to navigate under most furniture, while the round profile enables predictable maneuvering around obstacles. The streamlined design prioritizes reliability over specialized performance.
Roomba S9: The Carpet Specialist
The S9’s distinctive D-shape and wider cleaning head specifically target carpeted homes. The design reaches deeper into corners than round robots, and the dual rubber brushes agitate carpet fibers more effectively. At 3.5 inches tall, it’s slightly lower than the i7, potentially accessing areas under lower furniture. The wider 12.25-inch body (versus the i7’s 13.3-inch diameter) means a broader cleaning path per pass, theoretically reducing cleaning time on open floors.
Cleaning Performance
Carpet Cleaning: The S9 wins decisively here. The 40x suction (versus i7’s 10x) and dual brush system pull embedded dirt and pet hair that the i7 leaves behind. If your home is mostly carpet, the S9 justifies its premium. In real-world testing, the S9 typically removes 95%+ of embedded debris on medium-pile carpet in a single pass, while the i7 achieves 85-90%. For households with shedding pets or high-traffic carpeted areas, this difference is noticeable in weekly maintenance requirements.
Hard Floor Cleaning: The i7 and S9 are comparable on hard floors - both use suction and rubber brushes that won’t scratch. The S9’s extra power is overkill for hard surfaces. On hardwood, tile, or laminate, both models achieve similar 90%+ pickup rates for debris like cereal, rice, and pet kibble. The rubber rollers effectively prevent scattering on hard surfaces, unlike bristle brushes that can fling lightweight debris.
Edge and Corner Cleaning: The S9’s D-shape reaches approximately 2 inches deeper into corners than the i7. For homes with many corners and baseboards, this matters. The S9’s side brush placement at the front corner, combined with its squared-off front edge, creates a sweeping action that directs debris toward the main brushes more effectively. The i7 relies more heavily on its side brush to compensate for its round profile, which can occasionally scatter debris before capturing it.
Navigation: The Age Problem
Here’s where both models show their age. The i7 and S9 use vSLAM camera-based navigation, which was innovative in 2018-2019 but has significant limitations:
vSLAM Limitations:
- Struggles in low light or darkness
- Can get confused by similar-looking areas
- Requires adequate lighting to function
- Camera lenses need regular cleaning
Comparison to Modern Navigation:
- j-series (2021+): Adds AI obstacle recognition
- Roborock/LiDAR competitors: Superior mapping accuracy, works in darkness
If you have pets that have accidents, avoid the i7 and S9 entirely - they lack the AI to avoid pet waste. The newer j7 specifically identifies and avoids pet accidents. For an in-depth look at how robot vacuums work, including modern navigation systems, see our guide.
Navigation Efficiency in Practice:
The vSLAM system creates reasonably accurate floor plans after 1-2 cleaning runs, but map consistency can vary. Homes with large windows that change lighting conditions throughout the day may experience occasional navigation hiccups. The i7 and S9 both use “logical navigation” that divides rooms into grids and cleans in straight lines, which is efficient but less adaptive than LiDAR-based systems that continuously update their path planning.
Both models struggle with completely dark rooms - basements without windows or nighttime cleaning in rooms without night lights. Modern LiDAR systems excel in these conditions, making them preferable for 24/7 automated scheduling.
Smart Features
Both i7 and S9 Offer:
- Imprint Smart Mapping (save multiple floor plans)
- Keep-Out Zones (virtual boundaries)
- Clean Specific Rooms (via app or voice)
- Scheduling by room
- Recharge and Resume (clean large homes in multiple sessions)
Self-Emptying: The ”+” versions (i7+, S9+) include the Clean Base that empties the robot into a bag for 60 days of hands-free operation. This is genuinely useful and worth the premium if available. The Clean Base uses powerful suction to transfer debris from the robot’s dustbin in approximately 10-15 seconds. The sealed bags reduce allergen exposure during disposal - particularly valuable for allergy sufferers who would otherwise breathe in dust clouds when manually emptying the robot.
What’s Missing vs. Current Models:
- AI obstacle avoidance (j-series)
- Obstacle photo notifications (j-series)
- Precision clean zones (j-series)
- Improved app interface (j-series)
Voice Control Integration:
Both the i7 and S9 work with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri Shortcuts for basic voice commands like “start cleaning,” “dock,” or “clean the kitchen.” However, the implementation feels dated compared to newer models with more natural language processing. You’ll need to use specific command phrases rather than conversational language.
2026 Pricing: What Should You Pay?
New Units: Avoid
Neither the i7 nor S9 should be purchased new in 2026. If you find “new old stock,” ensure the price reflects the outdated technology - these should be discounted well below their original retail price. At anything close to full price, buy the newer j7 or j7+ instead.
Refurbished: The Value Play
iRobot sells certified refurbished units with 1-year warranties. Look for significant discounts off original retail - the i7 should be priced well below mid-range new robots, and the S9 should be comparable to a mid-range new model at most.
Warning: Avoid third-party refurbs without warranty. Robot vacuums have complex electronics that can fail.
Timing Your Purchase
iRobot typically runs sales around major shopping holidays - Black Friday, Prime Day, and Memorial Day offer the deepest discounts on refurbished units. Patience can save 20-30% compared to regular pricing. Monitor iRobot’s official refurbished store and authorized retailers like Amazon Renewed, which offers return windows if the unit doesn’t meet expectations.
What to Check in Refurbished Units
When buying refurbished, verify:
- Warranty coverage: Minimum 90 days, ideally 1 year
- Battery condition: Should hold charge for full cleaning cycle
- Clean Base functionality: If included, test the automatic emptying
- Camera/sensor cleanliness: Critical for navigation accuracy
- Included accessories: Filters, brushes, side brush should be new or like-new
Comparison to Current Alternatives
vs. Roomba i3+ EVO (New, Mid-Range)
The i3+ EVO received a 2022 software update adding smart mapping - previously an i7/S9 exclusive. Navigation is still reactive (bumps into things) rather than predictive, but cleaning performance is comparable to the i7 on both hard floors and carpet. The i3+ lacks the camera navigation of higher-end models, instead using floor-tracking sensors that function in any lighting condition.
Verdict: A new i3+ EVO with warranty often beats a refurbished i7 at similar prices. The reactive navigation is less elegant but ultimately gets the job done, and you avoid potential battery degradation issues in older refurbished units.
vs. Roomba j7/j7+ (New, Premium)
The j7 adds AI obstacle avoidance that fundamentally changes the robot vacuum experience. It identifies and avoids cords, socks, shoes, and pet waste. For homes with pets or clutter, this is worth the premium. The PrecisionVision Navigation uses a front-facing camera to identify over 80 different object types, learning to avoid them without manual Keep-Out Zones. The Pet Owner Official Promise (POOPⓇ) guarantees iRobot will replace your j7 if it fails to avoid solid pet waste.
Verdict: If budget allows, the j7 is the better long-term investment. The obstacle avoidance alone saves hours of frustrated manual interventions over the robot’s lifespan.
vs. Roborock Q5+ (Mid-Range)
Roborock’s Q5+ offers LiDAR navigation (superior to i7/S9 camera navigation), stronger suction (2700Pa), and self-emptying at a mid-range price. The app is more complex but offers more customization. LiDAR provides millimeter-accurate mapping in any lighting condition and faster initial mapping - typically completing a full home map in one cleaning session versus 2-3 for vSLAM systems.
Verdict: The Q5+ outperforms both i7 and S9 for less money - unless you’re committed to the Roomba ecosystem. The Roborock app has a steeper learning curve but rewards users who want granular control over cleaning schedules, suction levels by room, and multi-floor management.
vs. Eufy X8 (Budget-Friendly)
Anker’s Eufy X8 offers twin turbines, LiDAR navigation, and strong cleaning at budget pricing. It lacks self-emptying but outperforms bare i7/S9 units. The 2000Pa suction per turbine (4000Pa combined) exceeds the i7’s power and approaches S9 territory. Battery life extends to 180 minutes - sufficient for homes up to 2500 square feet in a single session.
Verdict: For basic cleaning without premium features, the X8 is compelling value. Add an auto-empty dock separately if desired, and you’re still under refurbished i7+ pricing.
Brand Ecosystem Considerations
Staying within the iRobot ecosystem offers benefits if you already own other iRobot products or plan to expand:
- Imprint Link Technology: Coordinates Roomba vacuums with Braava mops for sequential cleaning
- Unified app experience: Single interface for all iRobot devices
- Customer service: iRobot’s North American support generally receives higher marks than Chinese manufacturers
These factors matter more for multi-device households than single-robot buyers.
Who Should Buy What in 2026
Choose Refurbished i7 If:
- Found at a significant discount with Clean Base
- Home has mixed flooring (hard floors + carpet)
- You don’t have pets with accident issues
- Budget is tight but you want smart mapping
- You find a certified refurb with warranty
- Lighting is consistent throughout your home
Choose Refurbished S9 If:
- Found at a reasonable refurbished price with Clean Base
- Home is mostly carpet
- Corner cleaning is important
- You need maximum pet hair pickup
- You find a certified refurb with warranty
- You prioritize raw cleaning power over navigation elegance
Skip Both and Choose Instead:
- Roomba j7: If you have pets or want obstacle avoidance
- Roomba i3+ EVO: If you want new with warranty at mid-range price
- Roborock Q5+: If you want best navigation and value
- Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra: If you want premium features with mopping
Real-World Use Cases
Small Apartment (Under 800 sq ft): The i7 handles this easily. Navigation sophistication matters less in confined spaces, and the lower price point makes sense for limited square footage.
Multi-Level Home (2000+ sq ft): The S9+ becomes more compelling due to superior battery life (120 minutes vs. 75 minutes for i7) and more efficient cleaning patterns that reduce total cleaning time. Multi-floor mapping works on both models but benefits from the S9’s faster coverage.
Pet-Heavy Household: Neither i7 nor S9 is ideal - save for the j7 with obstacle avoidance. However, if budget dictates choosing between these two, the S9’s superior suction handles pet hair more effectively, particularly on carpet. See our best robot vacuums for pet hair roundup for models better suited to heavy shedders.
Long-Term Considerations
Parts Availability
iRobot supports models for approximately 7-10 years after launch. The i7 and S9 should have parts available through 2026-2028, but availability will decline. For general tips on extending your vacuum’s lifespan, see our guide on how long vacuums last. Common replacement parts include:
- Filters: Affordable 3-packs, replace every 2-3 months
- Rubber brushes: Moderate cost per set, replace annually
- Side brushes: Inexpensive 3-packs, replace every 3-4 months
- Batteries: Moderate cost for official replacements; third-party options cost less but vary in quality
Stock up on essential consumables if purchasing in late 2026, as 2027-2028 may see reduced third-party accessory options as manufacturers shift focus to newer models.
Software Updates
iRobot has a mixed record with legacy model support. The i7 and S9 still receive updates, but newer features (like improved AI) won’t be backported. Recent updates have focused on bug fixes and connectivity improvements rather than feature additions. Don’t expect significant functionality enhancements - what you buy is what you get.
Battery Replacement
Expect to replace the battery after 2-3 years of regular use. Official iRobot batteries carry a moderate cost; third-party alternatives are cheaper but vary in quality. Battery degradation shows as reduced runtime - the robot may dock mid-cycle more frequently or fail to complete whole-home cleaning sessions it previously handled. Some third-party batteries don’t communicate properly with the robot’s charging algorithms, potentially reducing overall lifespan.
Environmental Impact
Purchasing refurbished extends product lifespan and reduces electronic waste. A refurbished i7 or S9 that operates for 3-4 additional years prevents premature landfill disposal and delays manufacturing resource consumption. From a sustainability perspective, buying certified refurbished beats new budget models with shorter expected lifespans.
Further Reading
- Roomba vs Roborock: Which Robot Vacuum Brand is Better? (2026 Comparison)
- Shark vs Roomba Robot Vacuums: Which Budget Model Wins in 2026?
- Best Robot Vacuum Brands 2026: Top 7 Compared
- Best Robot Vacuum Picks for 2026
- Eufy vs Roomba: Brand Comparison
Maintenance and Upkeep
Weekly Tasks
- Empty dustbin (if not using Clean Base)
- Remove hair from brushes
- Wipe sensors and camera lens
Monthly Tasks
- Replace filter
- Clean cliff sensors
- Check wheel treads for debris
Quarterly Tasks
- Deep clean brush housing
- Inspect battery health
- Update software if available
The i7 and S9 require similar maintenance time - approximately 5-10 minutes weekly. Homes with pets may need more frequent brush cleaning, particularly with the S9’s dual-roller system that catches more hair.
Head-to-Head Comparison
Detailed Reviews
iRobot Roomba j7+ Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum
Best current RoombaThe iRobot Roomba j7+ combines PrecisionVision camera-based obstacle avoidance with a 60-day self-emptying Clean Base and the P.O.O.P. guarantee for pet waste detection, setting it apart from older Roomba models. It is best for pet owners who want the confidence that their robot will navigate around cords, shoes, and pet accidents without getting stuck.
What We Like
- PrecisionVision AI obstacle avoidance (avoids pet waste)
- 60-day capacity self-emptying Clean Base
- Smart mapping with room-specific cleaning schedules
- Pet Owner Official Promise (P.O.O.P.)
What We Don't
- Premium price point
- No mopping capability
- Camera-based navigation requires adequate lighting
iRobot Roomba i7+ (Refurbished)
Best value refurbishedBest value refurbished Roomba - solid performance without AI features at an affordable price point.
What We Like
- Smart mapping with Imprint technology
- Self-emptying Clean Base included
- Good value as refurbished unit
- Works with Alexa and Google Assistant
What We Don't
- Older navigation technology compared to newer models
- No PrecisionVision obstacle avoidance
- Refurbished warranty typically shorter than new
iRobot Roomba S9+ (Refurbished)
Best for carpet refurbishedBest for carpet as a refurbished unit - superior agitation and suction at a fraction of the original price.
What We Like
- Superior carpet cleaning performance
- D-shaped design excels at corner and edge cleaning
- 40x suction power compared to 600 series
- Advanced vSLAM navigation
What We Don't
- Older model (released 2019)
- Higher price for refurbished compared to other refurb options
- No obstacle avoidance like newer models
iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO
Best budget new RoombaThe iRobot Roomba i3+ EVO adds self-emptying convenience and Imprint Smart Mapping via a software update at a lower price than the i5 or j-series models. It is best for budget-minded Roomba buyers who want 60-day hands-free operation and room-by-room cleaning without paying for camera-based obstacle avoidance.
What We Like
- Self-emptying base with 60-day capacity
- Smart mapping capability added via EVO update
- More affordable than premium Roomba models
- Works on carpets and hard floors
What We Don't
- Uses reactive navigation instead of camera-based mapping
- May bump into furniture and obstacles without avoidance
- Shorter runtime than premium models
Roborock Q5+ Robot Vacuum
Best Roomba alternativeThe Roborock Q5+ pairs PreciSense LiDAR navigation with a self-emptying 2.5L dock for truly hands-off vacuuming at a competitive price point. Best for households switching from Roomba who want smarter multi-level mapping and longer 180-minute runtime without paying flagship prices.
What We Like
- Precise LiDAR navigation for efficient cleaning paths
- Self-emptying dock with 2.5L capacity bag
- Strong 2700Pa suction for carpets and hard floors
- Long 180-minute runtime on single charge
What We Don't
- No mopping capability
- App has learning curve for new users
- Lower suction than newer models
Sources & Research
- Amazon Product Page
- iRobot Official Page
- iRobot j7 Series
- Amazon Product Page
- iRobot Official Page
- iRobot i7 Series
- Amazon Product Page
- iRobot Official Page
- iRobot s9 Series
- Amazon Product Page
- iRobot Official Product Page
- iRobot Official Product Page
- Amazon Product Page
- Roborock Official Product Page
- Roborock Official Page
Continue Reading
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Are the Roomba i7 and S9 still worth buying in 2026?
- The Roomba i7 and S9 are 2019-2020 models that are now previous-generation technology. They're worth buying only if found at significant discounts - under $300 for i7 and under $450 for S9 (refurbished). At those prices, they offer solid cleaning and smart features that still compete with mid-range current models. However, the newer Roomba j7 ($599) adds AI obstacle avoidance that prevents getting stuck on cords and pet waste, which may be worth the premium for convenience. For budget buyers, the i3+ EVO ($399 new) offers better value than refurbished i7 models.
- What is the difference between Roomba i7 and S9?
- The Roomba S9 is the premium model with superior carpet cleaning: D-shaped design reaches corners better, 40x suction power versus 10x on i7, wider dual rubber brushes, and superior edge cleaning. The i7 has round design, standard suction, and dual multi-surface rubber brushes. Both have smart mapping and self-emptying options. The S9 is specifically designed for carpeted homes while the i7 is the all-rounder. In 2026, both are outdated compared to the j-series which adds AI obstacle avoidance.
- Should I buy a refurbished Roomba i7 or S9?
- Refurbished Roomba i7 or S9 can be good values if priced appropriately. Target prices: i7 under $250, i7+ (with self-emptying base) under $350, S9 under $350, S9+ under $450. Check warranty terms - iRobot certified refurbished typically includes 1-year warranty. Avoid third-party refurbs without warranty. Consider that a new i3+ EVO ($399) offers newer software, similar cleaning performance, and full warranty, often making it better value than older refurbished flagships.
- How does Roomba i7/S9 compare to newer j-series?
- The j7 and j9 series (2021-2023) add PrecisionVision Navigation with AI obstacle avoidance - identifying and avoiding cords, socks, shoes, and pet waste. The i7 and S9 use vSLAM camera navigation which can get stuck on obstacles and struggles in low light. The j-series also has improved suction and self-emptying bases with better allergen containment. For pet owners especially, the j7's obstacle avoidance is a game-changer worth the upgrade cost.
- How long do Roomba robot vacuums last?
- Roomba vacuums typically last 4-6 years with proper maintenance. Key maintenance includes: emptying dustbin regularly (or replacing bags in self-emptying models), cleaning brushes weekly of hair and debris, replacing filters every 2 months, and cleaning sensors monthly. Battery replacement ($50-80) may be needed after 2-3 years. iRobot offers replacement parts extending lifespan. Newer models with more complex navigation may have shorter lifespans due to camera/sensor complexity.
Written By
Home Vacuum Zone
Our team researches, tests, and reviews vacuum cleaners to help you make confident buying decisions.
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