iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo + AutoWash Dock Robot Vacuum Cleaner with Mop Function vs Roomba 105 Combo Robot Vacuum & Mop + AutoEmpty Dock - Self-Empties for 75 Days

Design and Aesthetics

The iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo boasts a sleek and modern design, while the Roomba 105 Combo also presents a contemporary look. Both models are designed for convenience and functionality, but the Roomba 405 features an AutoWash Dock, which enhances its visual and practical appeal.

The AutoWash Dock of the Roomba 405 not only serves as a charging station but also as a self-cleaning unit for the mop pads, making it an eye-catching addition to any home. In contrast, the Roomba 105's design is more straightforward, focusing on the essentials with a self-emptying dock that holds debris for up to 75 days. While both products are aesthetically pleasing, the added features of the Roomba 405 elevate its design status.

Cleaning Performance

When it comes to cleaning performance, the iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo significantly outshines the Roomba 105. The Roomba 405 features 70x more suction compared to the Roomba 600 series, ensuring that it effectively devours messes, from crumbs to paw prints, while also providing a robust mopping capability.

The Roomba 105, while also offering 70x more suction, focuses on delivering a solid cleaning experience without the advanced mopping features of its counterpart. It employs a multi-surface bristle brush and a microfiber mop pad, which leaves floors shiny and clean, but lacks the deeper scrubbing capabilities of the Roomba 405. Therefore, for those seeking a comprehensive cleaning solution, the Roomba 405 is the superior choice.

Navigation and Mapping

Both the iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo and the Roomba 105 feature advanced mapping technology with ClearView LiDAR, allowing them to quickly and efficiently map your home. However, the Roomba 405's navigation capabilities are slightly more sophisticated, enabling it to avoid obstacles and clean in neat rows, even in the dark.

The Roomba 105 employs similar technology but is primarily focused on finding and reaching messes rather than optimising its cleaning paths to the same extent as the Roomba 405. While both models exhibit smart navigation, the Roomba 405's enhanced mapping ensures a more thorough and organised cleaning session, making it the better option for homes with complex layouts.

Mopping Capabilities

The mopping capabilities of the iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo are significantly advanced compared to those of the Roomba 105. The Roomba 405 uses Spinning DualClean Mop Pads and SmartScrub technology, delivering 2x deeper scrubbing power, making it exceptionally effective at tackling tougher messes.

Conversely, the Roomba 105 includes a mop with a micro-pump that controls water flow and keeps the mop pad uniformly moist during cleaning. While this feature is beneficial, it does not match the deeper cleaning potential offered by the Roomba 405. Thus, for consumers prioritising mopping performance, the Roomba 405 is the clear winner.

Control and Customisation

Both vacuum cleaners offer multiple ways to control their cleaning functions, but the iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo provides a more tailored experience. With the Roomba Home app, users can set custom cleaning routines, check filter health, and receive insights into which rooms require attention.

The Roomba 105 also features the Roomba Home app, allowing for custom cleaning schedules and control, yet it is more focused on basic functionalities. Both models support voice commands through Alexa, Siri, and Google Assistant, but the enhanced features of the Roomba 405 make it a more customisable option for tech-savvy users.

Maintenance and Convenience

In terms of maintenance, the iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo excels with its AutoWash Dock that not only empties the dustbin but also cleans the mop pads, providing up to 75 days of hands-free cleaning. This convenience ensures less frequent manual intervention is required to maintain optimum performance.

The Roomba 105, while featuring a self-emptying dock that holds debris for 75 days, lacks the self-cleaning capabilities of the Roomba 405's dock. This difference in maintenance convenience is significant, as the Roomba 405 allows you to focus more on enjoying a clean home rather than on the upkeep of the device itself.

Price and Value

The price difference between the two products is notable, with the iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo retailing at £349.00, while the Roomba 105 is significantly more affordable at £179.00. This price gap reflects the enhanced features and capabilities of the Roomba 405, including superior mopping technology and advanced navigation.

For budget-conscious consumers, the Roomba 105 offers a solid cleaning solution without the bells and whistles of the Roomba 405. However, for those willing to invest more for added functionality and convenience, the Roomba 405 presents a compelling value, justifying its higher price tag.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the iRobot Roomba® 405 Combo and the Roomba 105 depends on your cleaning needs and budget. If you seek a comprehensive cleaning solution with advanced mopping, superior navigation, and high-tech features, the Roomba 405 is undoubtedly the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option that still offers reliable performance, the Roomba 105 is a solid alternative. Ultimately, your decision should align with the level of cleaning sophistication you desire in your home.