iRobot Braava Jet M6 vs Roborock S7: Comprehensive Comparison Guide

In the ever-evolving world of home automation, robotic floor cleaners stand out for both convenience and efficacy. In my extensive experience with these devices, two models have consistently risen to the top of the conversation: the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7.

While both are designed to handle the mundane task of floor cleaning with little to no human intervention, they arrive with different capabilities and technology.

The Braava Jet M6 by iRobot is a dedicated mopping robot, designed to tackle spills and stains across your hard floors. In contrast, the Roborock S7 offers a hybrid solution, capable of both vacuuming and mopping, thereby providing a more versatile cleaning experience.

Navigating through the needs of a busy household or the silent request of clean floors in a pet-friendly home, I have found that each robot serves its purpose uniquely.

The Braava Jet M6 excels in its mopping function, whereas the Roborock S7 brings the added advantage of vacuuming before it mops. When it comes to design and build quality, both devices exhibit polished aesthetics and are built to navigate around furniture and obstacles with precision.

Key Takeaways

• The iRobot Braava Jet M6 specializes in mopping, while the Roborock S7 combines vacuuming and mopping in one device.
• Both robots demonstrate advanced navigation capabilities and can be controlled through their respective apps, catering to different flooring types.
• The Roborock S7’s ability to transition from hard floors to carpets and its self-emptying options offer a more comprehensive cleaning solution.

Product Overview

During my time evaluating robotic floor cleaners, I’ve had the chance to investigate the specifics of the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7. While both are designed to maintain clean floors with their automated systems, they offer unique features and capabilities within their respective brands’ line-ups.

iRobot Brand and Braava Jet M6

iRobot has established a reputation for creating reliable robot vacuums, and the Braava Jet M6 elevates their portfolio, primarily focusing on mopping capabilities. My experience with the Braava Jet M6 revealed that it’s not just a simple mop; it’s an intelligent device that can navigate around obstacles and clean in a methodical pattern. It’s wirelessly controllable, and users can set virtual boundaries within the iRobot Home App. The key attributes of this model are:

• Mopping Performance: Superior at handling sticky messes and kitchen spills.
• Navigation: Smart mapping technology adapts to the layout of your home.

The Braava Jet M6, however, does not function as a vacuum, which is a point buyers should note if their primary need is vacuuming.

Roborock Brand and S7 Series

Roborock, on the other hand, is known for its innovative hybrid models that both vacuum and mop. My time with the Roborock S7 Series, including the Roborock S7+ and the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra, highlighted their multitasking prowess. These models embody the following features:

• Hybrid Functionality: They vacuum and mop, transitioning seamlessly between carpets and hard floors.
• Advanced Technology: The S7 series boasts sonic mopping technology and auto-lifting mop pads when a carpet is detected.

These models provide an all-in-one floor cleaning solution, which was especially evident in the proficiency with which the Roborock handled diverse floor types during my tests.

Key Features and Technologies

When examining the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, it’s essential to focus on their key features and technologies to determine their effectiveness in real-world cleaning scenarios.

Cleaning Performance

The Roborock S7 boasts impressive suction power and intelligent sonic mopping technology that allows it to transition seamlessly from vacuuming to mopping, making it highly effective on both carpets and hard flooring. In my experience, its suction power effectively picks up fine dust and debris. On the other hand, the iRobot Braava Jet M6, specializing in mopping, leverages its Precision Jet Spray to tackle sticky messes and kitchen grime, although it does not vacuum.

• Roborock S7: Vacuum and mop with strong suction
• iRobot Braava Jet M6: Wet mop with Precision Jet Spray

Mopping Technology

Roborock S7’s sonic mopping technology vibrates the pad, enhancing its ability to scrub floors. The Braava Jet M6, while not including sonic vibration, systematically covers the floor with efficient navigation and employs a reliable wet mop function to clean hard floors.

• Roborock S7: Sonic Mopping with Vibrarise technology
• iRobot Braava Jet M6: Systematic wet mopping

Navigation System

The S7 uses LiDAR navigation which I found to be extremely accurate in mapping the environment, resulting in efficient cleaning paths. The Braava Jet M6 employs iAdapt 3.0 with vSLAM navigation, allowing the device to navigate in neat rows and keep track of its location within a space.

• Roborock S7: LiDAR navigation for precise mapping
• iRobot Braava Jet M6: iAdapt 3.0 with vSLAM navigation

Smart Home Integration

Both the Roborock S7 and Braava Jet M6 offer intelligent integration with smart home systems. Through their respective smartphone apps, I could control the devices remotely. They are also compatible with Alexa for voice control. I appreciated the ability to set schedules and custom cleaning preferences directly from my phone.

• Both devices: Smartphone app control and Alexa compatibility

Design and Build Quality

In my experience testing robotic floor cleaners, particularly the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, I’ve noted that each model has distinctive features that cater to different user needs, especially when it comes to their design and build quality.

Water Tank and Dust Bin

iRobot Braava Jet M6:

• Water Tank: The M6’s water tank is efficiently sized for the device’s dedicated mopping function, which means it doesn’t require frequent refills during a cleaning session.
• Dust Bin: As a mopping robot, the M6 lacks a traditional dust bin since it is not designed for vacuuming.

Roborock S7:

• Water Tank: Similarly, S7’s water tank capacity is adequate for thorough mopping sessions, minimizing the need for refills.
• Dust Bin: The S7 includes a dust bin that is larger than typical mopping robots, which is a critical feature for its vacuuming and mopping hybrid capabilities.

Microfiber Pads and Cleaning Pad

iRobot Braava Jet M6:

• Microfiber Pads: The M6 uses disposable or washable microfiber pads that attach to the bottom of the unit. These pads are effective for both dry sweeping and wet mopping.
• Cleaning Pad: The cleaning pad adheres to the bottom of the M6 securely and is easy to clean or replace, enhancing the maintenance of the device.

Roborock S7:

• Microfiber Pads: With the S7, the microfiber pads serve a dual purpose, designed for effective dry dusting and wet mopping. This adaptability allows the S7 to transition smoothly from vacuum to mop with ease.
• Cleaning Pad: The Roborock S7 employs a cleaning pad system that vibrates to tackle grime on hard floors, resulting in a more efficient clean than static pads alone.

Both the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7 are built with a focus on their respective strengths—the M6’s robust mopping efficiency and the S7’s versatile vacuum and mop combination—showcased in the design and quality of their water tanks, dust bins, and microfiber cleaning implements.

Usability and App Control

I’ve extensively navigated the functionalities of both the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7 and can confidently discuss their app controls and usability features. Owners of these smart devices will find that the respective mobile apps enhance the cleaning experience significantly.

Mobile App Functionality

iRobot Braava Jet M6: The iRobot Home App provides an intuitive interface to control the Braava Jet M6. In my use, the app offered detailed cleaning reports, a map of cleaned areas, and the ability to designate keep-out zones. The connection setup is straightforward, and the app’s settings allow for customization of mopping behaviors and water flow.

• Customizable Maps: Assign cleaning zones and label rooms
• Keep-Out Zones: Set virtual barriers for areas off-limits to the mop
• Direct Control: Start, stop, or pause cleaning sessions with ease

Roborock S7: Roborock’s app has a slight edge in terms of smart features. The laser navigation technology allows the app to create accurate real-time maps of the home layout. My use showed that the app offers in-depth control over the vacuum and mopping functions, plus multi-floor mapping is quite an advantage.

• Real-Time Mapping: View and interact with the map as the Roborock S7 cleans
• No-Go Zones: Similar to keep-out zones, easily customizable for your home’s unique needs
• Adjustable Settings: Fine-tune suction power and mopping intensity

Scheduling and Support

iRobot Braava Jet M6: I found the scheduling feature in the iRobot app to be robust, allowing me to set up recurring cleanings with precision. Support options are readily available, featuring in-app troubleshooting tips, direct access to customer service, and helpful notifications.

• Recurring Schedules: Conveniently automate cleaning routines
• In-app Support: Useful tips and direct customer service links

Roborock S7: This robot mop also allows for detailed schedule creation. I particularly liked the option to save different schedules for different levels of your home. Roborock’s in-app support delivers quick firmware updates and access to customer support when needed.

• Multi-Level Scheduling: Optimize cleaning times for different floors
• Responsive Support: Firmware updates and customer service are easily accessible through the app

Both apps rate highly in their smart capabilities, greatly enhancing the user’s control over the cleaning robots. I appreciated the focus on user-friendly design from both companies, reflecting their understanding of the importance of an efficient app in the overall usability of their products.

Suitability for Different Flooring Types

In my experience testing both the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, their performance varied significantly across different flooring surfaces.

Carpet and Hardwood Floors

On carpet, the Braava Jet M6 tends to struggle due to its primary design as a mop, hence it is not the ideal candidate for high-pile carpet cleaning. Conversely, the Roborock S7 adapts effectively to different carpet heights with its automatic carpet recognition and increases suction power accordingly. When transitioning to hardwood floors, I’ve found that both models perform well in avoiding streaks and ensuring a gleaming finish. The Braava Jet M6 exhibits particular prowess in maneuvering around obstacles on hardwood.

Tile and Laminate Surfaces

With tile surfaces, the Roborock S7 shines due to its sonic mopping technology that scrubs floors up to 3,000 times per minute, targeting grout lines proficiently. However, it is on laminate surfaces where the Braava Jet M6 demonstrates its strength, efficiently mopping up spills and stains without utilizing too much water, which can be detrimental to laminate.

Pet and Child-Friendly Features

In my experience with the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, pet and child safety has been a notable concern that both companies have addressed in their robotic cleaners.

iRobot Braava Jet M6:

• Navigation: Equipped with advanced sensors, the M6 avoids obstacles, including pets and toys, which is ideal when children are present.
• Mopping: It uses a gentle cleaning approach, reducing the risk of pets slipping on overly wet floors.
• Virtual Wall: Through the app, I can create virtual barriers that keep the robot out of children’s play areas or pet bowls.

Roborock S7:

• Rubber Brush: Its floating brush system adapts to uneven surfaces, meaning less chance of it getting stuck on a toy or disturbing a sleeping pet.
• Carpet Detection: The S7 smartly lifts its mop when a carpet is detected, which assists in preventing unwanted wet spots that could harm delicate child or pet areas.
• Sonic Mopping: The intense scrubbing feature is surprisingly quiet, a big plus to prevent startling children or pets.

Here’s a simple comparison of child and pet-friendly features:

In terms of handling pet waste, neither robot should be allowed to clean up after pets as they are not designed to detect or clean organic waste effectively. As a safety precaution, I always ensure that the floor is free of any such hazards before running either of these cleaning devices.

Maintenance and Self-Emptying Options

Maintaining these robotic cleaning devices involves routine management of the dustbin and water tank, as well as understanding their charging and docking mechanisms. I’ve found that staying on top of these factors is essential for optimal performance.

Dustbin and Water Tank Maintenance

iRobot Braava jet m6: My experience with the Braava jet m6 has shown that its dustbin is designed for easy removal and cleaning. The maintenance is straightforward; a simple eject and empty process is usually enough. The water tank also can be detached effortlessly and needs regular refilling, as this model does not support self-emptying functionality.

Roborock S7: On the other hand, the Roborock S7’s dustbin requires manual emptying but is of a comparable size. A highlight for me is the S7’s self-cleaning dock, which can wash the mop automatically, making maintenance less hands-on. The S7’s dock also incorporates a self-emptying feature that sucks the debris from the dustbin into a disposable bag within the dock, reducing the frequency of manual emptying.

Automatic Charging and Docking

iRobot Braava jet m6: The Braava jet m6 automatically returns to its dock for charging when it’s running low on battery. The charging station is compact, and the robot aligns itself precisely. However, auto-evacuation of debris isn’t supported, although the docking station serves as a convenient base for both charging and refilling water.

Roborock S7: The Roborock S7 is equally competent in navigating back to its dock for a recharge. The docking station not only charges but also supports the self-emptying feature, meaning the S7 can offload its contents after a cleaning session. This integration provides a high level of convenience, allowing me to leave the robot to its tasks with minimal intervention.

Battery Life and Performance

During my testing of the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, I paid particular attention to battery life and cleaning performance, which are crucial factors for any robotic cleaner.

iRobot Braava Jet M6:

• Battery Life: The Braava Jet M6 boasts a substantial battery life that supports extended cleaning sessions. I found that it can consistently run for about 150 minutes before requiring a recharge, which allows it to cover a significant area in one go.
• Performance: In terms of mopping performance, the M6 works efficiently, handling everyday dirt with ease. The precision jet spray effectively targets and loosens dirt and sticky messes, while the cleaning pad wipes them away.

Roborock S7:

• Battery Life: The Roborock S7’s battery life is impressive, too. On a full charge, the S7 can operate for up to 180 minutes, giving it a slight edge over the M6 in endurance. This longer cleaning time is beneficial for larger spaces.
• Performance: The S7 distinguishes itself with its ability to switch between mopping and vacuuming, which I found to be highly effective. The sonic mopping technology vibrates the pad, providing a more thorough clean, especially on dried stains.

When comparing the two, considering the battery life and performance side by side:

Overall, both devices offer robust performance and good battery life. I noted that the Roborock S7 has a slight advantage with its extended battery capacity and multi-function capabilities. However, for pure mopping tasks, the Braava Jet M6 holds its own with reliable cleaning performance.

Obstacle Avoidance and Room Navigation

In my experience with both the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, I’ve observed their approach to navigating around home obstacles and through various rooms. Here’s a detailed look at how they manage furniture and toy obstacles and how they utilize no-go zones and digital mapping for efficient cleaning paths.

Furniture and Toy Obstacles

Both vacuum robots utilize advanced sensors to detect and maneuver around furniture and toys. The iRobot Braava Jet M6 employs a suite of precision sensors that enable it to navigate under and around objects, adapting its path to clean thoroughly. It systematically covers the floor and is careful in approaching edges, intricately avoiding obstacles such as chair legs. The Roborock S7, on the other hand, boasts a sophisticated laser navigation system which scans the room to create a real-time digital map. Its obstacle avoidance is more enhanced due to this laser technology, allowing it to detect objects on its path more accurately and adjust its route instantly. From my use, it handles unexpected items such as small toys with remarkable agility.

• iRobot Braava Jet M6:
  • Utilizes precise sensor technology.
  • Adapts paths intelligently around furniture.
• Roborock S7:
  • Features advanced laser navigation.
  • Highly responsive to on-floor toys and obstacles.

No-Go Zones and Digital Mapping

Implementing no-go zones and creating digital maps are essential for a hassle-free cleaning experience. My Roomba M6 uses virtual wall barriers to set up no-go zones, which are quite effective, although they require additional setup. The digital mapping feature works well but is sometimes less intuitive when it comes to altering the created maps. In contrast, the Roborock S7 shines with its user-friendly app that lets me draw virtual barriers on my phone or tablet. The digital maps created by the Roborock are interactive, allowing me to easily designate areas for the robot to avoid. This feature proves extremely practical when I want to keep the robot away from a pile of cables or a pet’s feeding area.

• iRobot Braava Jet M6:
  • Relies on physical virtual wall barriers for no-go zones.
  • Capable of digital mapping, though less user-friendly.
• Roborock S7:
  • Allows setting no-go zones through a mobile app.
  • Offers interactive and easily modifiable digital maps.

Additional Considerations

When choosing between the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, it’s worth considering not just their respective features but also alternative models and the after-sales support from the communities and manufacturers in terms of software updates.

Roborock and iRobot Alternatives

While I’ve found both the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7 to be competent in their cleaning capabilities, exploring alternatives from these brands might serve specific needs better. iRobot offers a range of Roomba vacuums, well-suited for various cleaning tasks. I’ve observed that a high-end model like the Roomba S9+ works effectively alongside the Braava Jet M6 for a comprehensive cleaning experience.

Similarly, other brands like Narwal offer the Narwal T10, a vacuum and mop combo with notable features. And, if looking into wet cleaning alternatives beyond the scope of mopping robots, the Bissell SpinWave Wet and Dry is also worthy of consideration for its dual-functionality.

Community Advice and Software Updates

Seeking advice from the user community has often been a highlight in my decision-making process. For example, a Reddit user rated the Roomba and Braava combo lower compared to the Roborock S7, highlighting the superiority of the S7’s navigation and floor adaptation.

In the realm of software, I pay close attention to consistent software updates that enhance functionality. The Roborock S7 carries the expectation of regular firmware updates that improve performance over time, an essential factor given the rapidly advancing technology in robotic home devices. The same expectation extends to the Braava Jet M6, which should also not be overlooked for its software improvement potential.

Conclusion

In my extensive testing of both the iRobot Braava Jet M6 and the Roborock S7, I’ve observed the strengths and weaknesses of each robotic cleaner. The Braava Jet M6 excels in its mopping functionality, providing a systematic and thorough clean on a variety of hard floor surfaces. Its advanced navigation technology ensures it covers every area efficiently. On the other hand, the Roborock S7 offers not just impressive mopping capabilities but also robust vacuuming performance, making it a versatile choice for homes with mixed flooring.

Performance Comparison:

• iRobot Braava Jet M6:
  • Superior mopping on hard floors
  • Sequential cleaning path
  • Less effective on carpets
• Roborock S7:
  • Strong vacuuming and mopping performance
  • Integrated laser navigation
  • Adaptable brush assembly for floor transitions

Both devices integrate well with smart home systems and can be scheduled for regular cleaning, which I found convenient. However, I noted that the Roborock S7 seems to provide a more aligned solution for those requiring both vacuuming and mopping in one go.

My Usage Experience:

• Set-up: Each device can be easily set up and connected to respective smartphone apps.
• Maintenance: Routine maintenance, such as emptying bins or cleaning brushes, is straightforward for both models.
• Navigation: The M6 and S7 efficiently navigate around obstacles; however, the S7’s laser navigation has a slight edge in precision.

In summary, if your primary need is mopping, the Braava Jet M6 is a strong candidate. If you seek a combination of both vacuuming and mopping with advanced navigation, the Roborock S7 may be the better option.