iRobot Roomba® 105 Combo Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Mop Function - Black vs Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop with Self-charging Base - Deep-cle

Overview of the iRobot Roomba® 105 Combo Robot Vacuum Cleaner and Shark Matrix Plus

The iRobot Roomba® 105 Combo Robot Vacuum Cleaner is priced at £149.00, while the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop is significantly higher at £499.99. This price difference reflects the varying functionalities and features offered by both devices.

The Roomba 105 combines vacuuming and mopping capabilities, making it suitable for a variety of cleaning tasks. In contrast, the Shark Matrix Plus provides advanced features such as self-cleaning capabilities and extensive automation, appealing especially to those with pets or larger homes.

Cleaning Performance

The Roomba 105 boasts a 4-Stage Cleaning System with 70 times more power-lifting suction compared to its predecessors, effectively tackling dirt and debris. It employs a multi-surface bristle brush and an edge-sweeping brush, ensuring thorough cleaning across different floor types.

On the other hand, the Shark Matrix Plus features sonic mopping technology, which deep cleans by employing multiple passes and air blasts for corner and edge cleaning. Its self-cleaning brush roll is particularly beneficial for pet owners, as it removes hair while cleaning, making it more efficient for households with shedding animals.

Navigation and Mapping Technology

The iRobot Roomba 105 utilises ClearView LiDAR for smart mapping and navigation, allowing it to create a detailed map of your home while avoiding obstacles. This system ensures that the Roomba cleans in neat rows, even in low-light conditions.

Conversely, the Shark Matrix Plus employs 3D 360° LiDAR vision mapping, which provides an even more comprehensive scan of your environment. This advanced mapping technology allows for customisation through an app, including scheduling cleans and setting no-go zones, offering a higher level of user control compared to the Roomba.

Usability and Control Features

The Roomba 105 is designed for ease of use with multiple control options, including a dedicated app, voice commands with Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant, and physical buttons on the robot itself. This flexibility allows users to tailor their cleaning experience to their preferences.

In comparison, the Shark Matrix Plus offers an even more automated approach with a self-emptying dustbin that has a 60-day capacity. It also refills its own water tank for up to 30 days and includes a self-cleaning feature for the mop pad, making it exceptionally low-maintenance. This level of automation may appeal to busy households looking for a hands-off cleaning solution.

Mopping Capabilities

The mopping function of the Roomba 105 is supported by a microfiber mop pad that can be controlled for moisture levels, ensuring effective cleaning without soaking carpets. It offers three cleaning settings: vac only, mop only, or a combination of both, allowing users flexibility in how they clean their floors.

The Shark Matrix Plus, however, takes mopping to another level through its sonic mopping feature, which not only cleans but also dries the pad after each use. This technology may provide a more thorough cleaning experience, particularly for stubborn stains or spills, making it a strong contender for those needing superior mopping capabilities.

Suitability for Pet Owners

The iRobot Roomba 105 includes features to prevent it from mopping over rugs, thanks to its automatic carpet detection. This is particularly useful for homes with a mix of hard floors and carpets. While it effectively removes pet hair from hard surfaces, it lacks the advanced features found in some higher-end models.

In contrast, the Shark Matrix Plus is engineered with pet owners in mind, featuring a self-cleaning brush roll that actively removes hair during the cleaning process. The anti-allergen complete seal captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it an excellent choice for those concerned about pet dander and allergens in their home.

Maintenance and Convenience

Maintenance for the Roomba 105 involves regular emptying of its dustbin and cleaning of its brushes, which is a standard requirement for most robotic vacuums. The user-friendly app helps keep track of filter life and maintenance schedules, enhancing convenience for the user.

The Shark Matrix Plus goes further with its self-cleaning capabilities; not only does it empty its dustbin, but it also cleans its mop pad automatically. This significantly reduces the frequency of manual maintenance required, making it a more convenient option for those who prefer a hands-free experience.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the iRobot Roomba® 105 Combo Robot Vacuum Cleaner and the Shark Matrix Plus ultimately depends on your specific cleaning needs and budget. The Roomba 105 offers solid performance and versatility at a much lower price point of £149.00, making it ideal for those needing a reliable cleaner without advanced features.

In contrast, the Shark Matrix Plus, priced at £499.99, presents a higher level of automation and advanced cleaning technology, catering particularly well to pet owners or larger households that require deep cleaning and minimal maintenance. If budget is not a constraint, the additional features of the Shark model may provide a more comprehensive cleaning solution.