If you’re in the market for a robot vacuum, you’ve likely seen two brand names pop up most frequently: Shark and Roomba. Both of these well-known manufacturers offer top-performing robot vacuums that have been heralded for their efficiency, smart features and aesthetic designs. But as a consumer, it can be difficult to get a handle on the Shark vs. Roomba debate without poring through the fine print. When it comes down to practical use, how do they really stack up?
Ahead, find a comprehensive guide to the differences between these two models, which is intended to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your home. Our detailed, side-by-side comparison of both the iRobot Roomba j7+ and the Shark IQ XL includes a rundown of their key distinguishing features to help you cut through the noise and find the perfect cleaning companion.
MORE FROMFORBES VETTED
Shark Vs. Roomba: How Are They Similar?
Robot dimensions: 13.3 x 3.4 inches | Base dimensions: 15.7 x 11.9 x 13.3 inches | Self-emptying base: Yes, with bags | Obstacle recognition and avoidance: Yes | Voice command compatibility: Google and Alexa | Scheduled cleaning: Yes | Virtual walls: Yes | Recharge and resume: Yes
There are certainly a lot of similarities between the iRobot Roomba j7+ and Shark IQ XL. Both are top picks in the crowded world of self-sufficient robot vacuums, and both offer self-emptying docks that allow users to forget about vacuum maintenance weeks or even months at a time. Customers also love the user-friendly apps boasted by both vacuums, which make it easy to schedule cleanups or keep tabs on the bots’ progress from afar. And both of these models include recharge and resume features, too, meaning they can take care of those larger spaces without needing a break (or any help from you).
Additionally, both robot vacuums offer an incredibly helpful option to set up “virtual walls,” so you can easily customize the vacuums’ cleaning routes, directing them exactly where you want them to clean and steering them clear of the no-go zones.
Shark Vs. Roomba: How Do They Compare?
Robot dimensions: 12.9 x 3.5 inches | Base dimensions: 16.5 x 19.4 x 16.6 inches | Self-emptying base: Yes, bagless | Obstacle recognition and avoidance: No | Voice command compatibility: Google and Alexa | Scheduled cleaning: No | Virtual walls: Yes, manual setup | Recharge and resume: Yes
Design
The Roomba j7+ is sleek, designed with a modern, minimalist look that fits well in any space; its ultra-low profile also effortlessly navigates under most furniture, so no dust bunny is left behind. What’s more, its unique brush system is a game-changer for pet owners: The dual, multi-surface rubber brushes adjust to stay in constant contact with your floors and pull in hair from all directions without getting tangled, while the side brush makes sure baseboards and corners don't get neglected. Lastly, the j7+ includes a compact, self-emptying base that is perhaps its strongest selling point. This system allows the vacuum to empty itself for up to 60 days using bags that capture and trap 99% of pollen and mold. No dust, no fuss and no dirty hands.
The Shark IQ XL, meanwhile, clocks in at 3.5 inches tall, meaning it has an ever-so-slightly bigger profile than the j7+. However, it makes up for this fact with a self-cleaning brushroll that grabs pet hair and long strands without missing a beat—and it still manages to clean hard-to-reach spots and tidy up corners with its dynamic brushes. Unlike the j7+, the Shark also takes a bagless approach in its self-emptying base. While this means you won't need to keep buying bags, some people find emptying the dustbin a messy process. On the other hand, you’ll be able to get away without doing it yourself for up to 45 days at a time.
The Roomba j7+ might “win” here if getting under furniture and saving space is key for you. But if you're after a vacuum that doesn’t require purchasing bags in perpetuity, the Shark IQ XL could be your go-to.
Smart Features
When navigating the maze that is your living room, both the Roomba j7+ and Shark IQ XL are armed with smart technologies that promise to learn and adapt to your space. The j7+ is known for its ability to spot and avoid common household obstacles like socks, charging cables, toys and even pet waste. Dodging the mess isn’t the only pro here; the device is capable of mapping out the most efficient cleaning path to save time and battery life, too. And the iRobot Home App is touted by users as an easy-to-use interface for scheduling cleanings, setting no-go zones and getting detailed clean reports.
Meanwhile, the Shark IQ XL stands up to its competition: It also maps your home as it cleans. That said, unlike the j7+, which makes strategic decisions in real-time to avoid obstacles, the Shark mainly relies on you to clear the floor before it begins its journey. If you leave stuff around, there’s a possibility it could get tangled or stuck, interrupting its progress. Still, it aims to cover as much ground as possible with each cleaning session, and, according to the manufacturer, it gets smarter and more efficient over time. The Shark app provides similar functionalities, like scheduling and setting up no-go zones.
Both vacuums are equipped with impressive cleaning technology. The j7+ features a three-stage cleaning system that is designed to lift, extract and vacuum dirt with ten times the air power of its base models. But the Shark IQ XL holds its own with strong suction and a self-cleaning brushroll, which is designed to tackle endless amounts of pet hair without getting tangled. And the self-emptying feature on both models is a game-changer for anyone who'd rather not get their hands dirty on a daily basis. As previously mentioned, the j7+ opts for a bagged system, capable of containing 60 days' worth of the daily grind. The Shark, with its bagless design, doesn’t lag far behind, offering up to 45 days of dirt and debris collection. The real difference between the vacuums comes after a month or two, when it’s time for you to step in and empty the dustbins.
Price
The Roomba j7+ is pricier, at $800 before sale prices. But you're paying for peace of mind: No more pre-cleaning checks to ensure the floor is clear of obstacles or worrying about emptying the bin every day. It's a true “set-and-forget” model, which is priceless for busy people or those who'd rather do literally anything else than think about vacuuming. The Shark IQ XL, meanwhile, is the more wallet-friendly option, clocking in at $600 before sales. It’s perfect for those who don't mind a bit more interaction with their vacuum (like bin-emptying) and can live without the latest tech features. This model is also regularly on sale through third-party retailers, even further lowering the price tag.
Final Verdict
The Shark is a more budget-friendly, bagless option, but the Roomba j7+ is the clear winner here. Its obstacle avoidance technology is hard to beat, and a self-emptying feature means you can pretty much forget about maintenance for up to 60 days. Yes, it's pricier, but buying a robot vacuum is all about getting the best clean with the least effort on your part. In that regard, the j7+ takes the lead.
Why Trust Forbes Vetted
The Forbes Vetted team has produced hundreds of meticulously researched stories about cleaning devices of all types. For this story, we extensively researched and evaluated the performance of Shark and Roomba robot vacuums to provide you with reliable insights, scrutinizing every aspect of the devices, from frequency of the required maintenance to any relevant smart features. We also ensure that each of our articles is updated often; this piece was last published in April 2024.
More Cleaning Stories To Shop
- Best Vacuum Cleaners
- Best Robot Vacuums
- Best Cordless Stick Vacuums
