iRobot Roomba 694 vs Eufy 11S: In-Depth Comparison Review

In the realm of robot vacuums, the iRobot Roomba 694 and the Eufy RoboVac 11S stand out as practical options for those seeking to streamline their cleaning routine. My experience testing a plethora of robot vacuum models has allowed me to appreciate the fine balance between functionality and value that these two contenders offer. Each vacuum cleaner has its own set of features tailored to various cleaning needs and home environments, a testament to the thoughtful engineering behind these devices.

Having spent considerable time assessing the performance of these robotic assistants, I can affirm that the Roomba 694 provides a user-friendly experience with its compatibility with the iRobot HOME App, and its adaptive navigation is proficient at avoiding obstacles. On the other hand, the Eufy RoboVac 11S, nicknamed the “Slim,” boasts an impressive suction power for its size and operates remarkably quietly. Its slim design is engineered to glide under furniture with ease, ensuring no spot is missed during its cleaning cycle.

Both models come equipped with sensors and technology designed to tackle different floor types and their respective challenges. The Roomba 694 adjusts to various floor surfaces seamlessly and is apt for homes with mixed flooring. Comparatively, the Eufy 11S showcases its prowess in maintaining suction on surfaces like hardwood and tile, as well as transitioning to carpets, which it navigates without hesitation. It’s important to note that neither of these vacuums shies away from household challenges like pet hair or high-traffic areas, although each may exhibit strengths in particular aspects of the cleaning process.

Comparison Overview

When examining the iRobot Roomba 694 and the Eufy RoboVac 11S, I closely evaluated their design, efficiency in cleaning, and battery life. Each category revealed distinct characteristics and capabilities that potential users should consider.

Design and Dimensions

The design of the Eufy RoboVac 11S and iRobot Roomba 694 exhibits a sleek and modern aesthetic, but there are notable differences in their dimensions. My measurements showed that the Roomba 694 stands taller, which could potentially limit its ability to clean under low furniture. In contrast, the RoboVac 11S sports a more slim profile, making it more suitable for navigating under tighter spaces.

Suction and Cleaning Performance

In terms of suction and cleaning performance, I found that both devices are competent at handling various types of debris. The Roomba 694 maintains consistent suction power, making it reliable when dealing with regular household dust and dirt. On the other hand, the RoboVac 11S boasts additional side brushes, providing it an edge in gathering debris. Both devices offer multiple cleaning modes, catering to different cleaning needs.

Battery and Runtime

Discussing battery and runtime, both the Roomba 694 and the RoboVac 11S can run for extended periods, making them ideal for larger homes. My tests revealed that both vacuums can operate for up to an hour or more on a single charge. The exact runtime will vary depending on the mode and intensity of the cleaning session.

Each robot vacuum cleaner has its strengths. The Roomba 694’s reliability and consistent performance are traits many seek, while the RoboVac 11S’s slim design and enhanced side brushes make it a strong contender, especially in homes with a lot of furniture.

Smart Features and Control

In my extensive testing of both the iRobot Roomba 694 and the Eufy 11S, I found that each gadget offers distinct smart features that enhance user experience and control.

Connectivity and Integration

Both the iRobot Roomba 694 and the Eufy 11S have incorporated Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing me to control them remotely through their respective applications. The Roomba 694 especially stands out with its integration capabilities with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice commands which I found to be exceptionally convenient. My experience with Eufy 11S, although not supporting Google Assistant, was smooth as well, as it nicely connected with Amazon Alexa for basic voice command functions.

iRobot Roomba 694:

• Wi-Fi connectivity: Fully supported
• Integration: Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant compatible

Eufy 11S:

• Wi-Fi connectivity: Fully supported
• Integration: Amazon Alexa compatible, Google Assistant not supported

Navigation and Mapping

When it comes to navigation, the Roomba 694 impressed me with its patented iAdapt navigation technology. It effectively navigated through my rooms and was quite adept at avoiding obstacles. However, I noted that this model lacks advanced mapping but it does include Dirt Detect technology which focuses on problem areas that require extra cleaning. On the other hand, the Eufy 11S does not create a map of the environment, but it still managed to navigate efficiently in my tests, thanks to its onboard sensors, although with less sophistication than the Roomba.

The absence of virtual barrier support in the Eufy 11S sometimes made it challenging to restrict cleaning zones, a feature present in the Roomba 694 that lets me designate no-go zones with virtual barriers, making it much more efficient to manage space cleaning.

iRobot Roomba 694:

• Navigation: Uses iAdapt technology, no advanced mapping
• Obstacle Sensors: Present
• Virtual Barriers: Supported for no-go zones

Eufy 11S:

• Navigation: Basic navigation with onboard sensors, no mapping
• Obstacle Sensors: Present
• Virtual Barriers: Not supported

Specialized Cleaning Capabilities

In my thorough testing and comparison of the iRobot Roomba 694 and Eufy RoboVac 11S, I’ve evaluated their specialized cleaning functions with a focus on how effectively they manage carpet and hard floor cleaning, as well as pet hair and allergy management.

Carpet and Hard Floor Cleaning

iRobot Roomba 694:

• Ideal for carpets and rugs: It adapts its cleaning power using Auto-Adjust Cleaning Head technology, ensuring thorough dirt removal from fibers.
• Performs well on bare floors: However, lacks a dedicated mopping function for a polished finish.

Eufy RoboVac 11S:

• Equipped with twin side brushes: These capture debris along edges and corners on both carpets and hard floors efficiently.
• Does not offer a mopping feature: While it vacuums effectively across surfaces, it cannot replace a mop for sticky or wet messes.

Pet Hair and Allergy Management

iRobot Roomba 694:

• While it doesn’t have a HEPA filter, it includes an advanced filter that captures fine dust and pet hair, aiding those with mild sensitivities.
• Maneuvers around pet hair on both soft and hard flooring, but may require frequent bin emptying with high shedders like cats and dogs.

Eufy RoboVac 11S:

• The presence of a HEPA filter makes it a better choice for allergy sufferers, trapping more allergens and fine particles.
• Its twin side brushes and main brush roll effectively tackle cat and dog hair on a variety of surfaces, keeping pet-friendly homes cleaner.

Noise and Disturbance Factors

In my extensive testing, I’ve found that noise level and furniture interactions are critical aspects that significantly influence the user experience of robot vacuums like the iRobot Roomba 694 and Eufy 11S.

Operating Volume

When assessing the iRobot Roomba 694 and Eufy 11S, I rigorously measured their operating volumes. The Roomba 694 operates with an audible presence, typical for robot vacuums in its category. During my tests, it was clear that iRobot’s design includes an eco mode, which can reduce noise. In contrast, the Eufy 11S impressed me with its quieter performance. Even without a distinct eco mode, Eufy’s 11S manages to keep the noise to a minimum, making it less intrusive, especially in quieter home environments.

• iRobot Roomba 694: Normal operating volume, eco mode available
• Eufy 11S: Quieter operation, no specific eco mode but maintains low noise levels

Furniture Interaction

My experience with the iRobot Roomba 694 in terms of furniture interaction showed that its brush width is well-suited to navigate around standard household obstacles. The Roomba’s obstacle sensors effectively prevent collisions with furniture, but the audible noise when it does occasionally bump into them is noticeable.

Conversely, the Eufy 11S, while quieter, seems to have a different approach. Its slim design allows it to glide under furniture with ease, reducing the chances of loud disturbances when interacting with furniture. Both vacuums demonstrate proficiency in navigating around obstacles, yet the Eufy 11S may offer a slightly more discreet operation due to its lower profile and quieter operation.

• iRobot Roomba 694: Effective obstacle sensor, occasional furniture bumps audible due to brush width
• Eufy 11S: Quieter furniture interaction, slim design aids in avoiding disturbances

Maintenance and Additional Features

When comparing the iRobot Roomba 694 and the Eufy 11S, I’ve found that each offers distinct approaches to maintenance and additional features that cater to different user preferences.

Dirt Disposal and Filters

iRobot Roomba 694

• Dustbin: Needs to be emptied manually; no self-emptying features.
• Filters: Comes with a built-in filter that is not HEPA-grade but effectively captures fine particles. Replacement of filters is required over time.

Eufy RoboVac 11S

• Dustbin: Also requires manual emptying and is slightly larger than the Roomba’s, providing a 0.6L capacity.
• Filters: Features a HEPA filter, which is a plus for those with allergies as it traps smaller particulates. The filters are washable, which makes maintenance a bit more cost-effective over the long term.

Extra Functions and Modes

iRobot Roomba 694

• Dirt Detection: The Roomba has dirt detection that focuses cleaning on areas that are dirtier, which I noticed to be particularly useful for high-traffic zones.
• Modes: It operates without an explicit eco mode, but its standard cleaning process is relatively energy-efficient.

Eufy RoboVac 11S

• Mopping: This model does not come with mopping capabilities, focusing solely on vacuuming.
• Modes: Offers different modes such as standard, boost IQ, and max suction. The lack of mopping means it’s a straightforward vacuuming experience.

In terms of maintenance, both models require regular cleaning of brushes and filter care. There is no feature like the Roomba j7’s self-emptying mechanism in either model. Problem area cleaning is more advanced in the Roomba, while the Eufy favors simplicity in its operation. Neither model offers disposable bags as part of their dirt disposal system.

Consumer Considerations

When comparing the iRobot Roomba 694 and the Eufy RoboVac 11S, I’ve taken into account not only their features but also how they translate into real-world usage and value. The considerations of price and user feedback are particularly pivotal for understanding what each model offers to budget-conscious consumers.

Price and Value

In my analysis, the iRobot Roomba 694 often retails for a slightly higher price than the Eufy RoboVac 11S, which is reflective of the brand’s market positioning as well as its features. From a budget perspective, these models are considered budget-friendly when compared to higher-end robot vacuums, yet they don’t skimp on essential functionalities. It’s important to look out for deals, as these can make either model more attractive, depending on the discount offered at the time of purchase.

Here is a quick price comparison:

*Prices are approximate and subject to change.

User Reviews and Feedback

I closely examined user reviews and the feedback provided by consumers who have had hands-on experience with both models. The Eufy RoboVac 11S is often praised for its slim profile and quiet operation, making it suitable for households that prefer a discreet cleaning experience. Conversely, the Roomba 694 commonly receives accolades for its superior navigation and the robust nature of its companion app. As for the Roomba 675—a model closely related to the Roomba 694—it generally garners positive remarks for its cleaning efficiency, making it another contender for your consideration in this category. It’s critical to read reviews thoroughly to understand each model’s strengths and potential drawbacks from a practical standpoint.

Competitive Alternatives

When comparing the performance of the iRobot Roomba 694 and Eufy RoboVac 11S, I’ve also taken into account other competitive alternatives such as the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2S and the Roborock S4 Max, which merit attention.

Xiaomi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2S

• Pros: What stands out with the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum-Mop 2S is its excellent mopping capabilities. My testing showed that it efficiently handled dust pick-up and maintained streak-free floors.
• Cons: However, its comparatively smaller dustbin necessitates more frequent emptying, which could be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Roborock S4 Max

• Pros: The Roborock S4 Max impressed me with its precise laser navigation system. This advanced navigation allows for more accurate mapping and targeted cleaning, particularly beneficial in complex layouts.
• Cons On the flip side, the Roborock S4 Max comes at a higher price point, reflecting its advanced features.

In terms of vacuuming performance, both alternatives work efficiently on multiple floor types. The Roborock S4 Max does not include a mopping function, which the Xiaomi offers, making the latter a versatile choice for those who desire a 2-in-1 cleaning solution.

Each alternative brings forth unique attributes that cater to various preferences, from navigation technology to the inclusion of mopping functionalities. This ensures that, depending on your specific needs, there are strong contenders in the robot vacuum market as alternatives to both the Roomba 694 and the Eufy 11S.

Final Thoughts

In examining the Eufy RoboVac 11S Max and the iRobot Roomba 694, I’ve considered several important features that influence the purchasing decision. The cleaning performance of both models is commendable, but it’s the finer details that make a significant difference. I noticed that the Roomba 694 operates very effectively on various surfaces, while the RoboVac 11S Max offers a higher suction power which can be quite advantageous on carpets.

Design-wise, both vacuums have a sleek build, with the Eufy being slightly slimmer, making it a better fit under furniture. This feature certainly influences the vacuum’s accessibility to different spaces in the home.

Their battery life is another crucial factor. Here, I found the RoboVac 11S Max to be slightly ahead with a runtime that extends an additional 10 minutes longer than the Roomba 694. This extra time can prove beneficial in larger homes.

As for smart features, both devices can be scheduled for cleaning sessions, but neither offers advanced mapping or virtual boundary capabilities. They keep things simple, which can be viewed positively or negatively depending on what you expect from a robot vacuum.

In my testing, both vacuums have demonstrated their abilities in keeping the home tidy with minimal human intervention. The choice between the two comes down to whether you prioritize a slim design and stronger suction (Eufy) or brand reputation and consistent performance (Roomba).