When iRobot announces a new flagship addition to its Roomba range, it’s always a headline event. With its long-standing reputation and unmatched heritage in the robot vacuum space, a new release naturally gets plenty of attention. However, the latest Roomba Combo 10 Max, which introduces a mop cleaning and drying system, doesn’t quite live up to the hype, especially considering the trends it’s playing catch-up to.
The Mop: A Missed Opportunity
Let’s get the criticisms out of the way first. While the Combo 10 Max’s mop cleaning system sounds like a great feature, it doesn’t break new ground. Many competitors have had mop functionality for over a year, and iRobot’s version feels somewhat clumsy in comparison. The fixed mop pad, unlike the more agile spinning pads of its rivals, isn’t ideal for maneuvering. Sure, the mop can rise and move out of the way with some theatrical flair, but this “party trick” is starting to feel more cumbersome than innovative. The washing and drying system also doesn’t outshine the competition, and the mop head never really feels dry enough after cleaning.
Where It Shines: Suction and Performance
Now, onto the good stuff. The Roomba Combo 10 Max excels in suction power. Whether it’s cleaning carpets or hard floors, the patented brush design consistently picks up more dirt and debris. As a pet owner with a shedding dog, I can say this robot vacuum does an excellent job in handling fur, as iRobot’s vacuums have always been reliable in this department.
Despite lacking LiDAR, which is now a standard feature in many robot vacuums, the Combo 10 Max still covers your floors impressively well. Instead of using LiDAR, it relies on touch to detect boundaries and map the room. While it means the mapping process is slower, and you’ll have to set up “no-go zones,” it doesn’t significantly affect overall performance.
User-Friendly App and Service
One of the standout features of the Roomba Combo 10 Max is its user-friendly app. iRobot’s app is arguably the best in the industry, offering smooth setup of rooms, zones, and cleaning schedules. If anything goes wrong, iRobot’s customer service is top-notch, ensuring you get help when you need it most.
Mopping Efficiency: Surprisingly Good
Despite its fixed mop pad, I was impressed with how well the Combo 10 Max cleaned floors. While the lack of surface agitation might seem like a disadvantage, it still does a respectable job at mopping, especially when you consider the fluid efficiency of the system. The tanks aren’t large, but the mop doesn’t require a lot of fluid to get the job done.
The Price Debate: Combo 10 Max vs. Combo J9+
Here’s the real kicker. The Combo 10 Max is priced at £1,499 on iRobot’s website, which is a steep price for a robot vacuum that doesn’t offer significantly new or superior features compared to the previous Combo J9+. The J9+ is currently on special offer for £549, and while it’s a bit more basic, it still offers most of the performance you’d expect from a Roomba. Even without the offer, the J9+ at £1,249 represents a far better value for the money. The Combo 10 Max, while an excellent performer, feels a bit overpriced for what it offers, especially considering the similarities between the two models.
Final Thoughts
The Roomba Combo 10 Max is a solid robot vacuum, as you’d expect from the Roomba range. It offers excellent suction, user-friendly features, and a surprisingly efficient mopping system. However, it feels like it’s lagging behind the competition in some key areas, especially with its mop design and the lack of LiDAR. If you’re looking for a high-end robot vacuum, the Combo 10 Max is a good choice, but at its current price point, the Combo J9+ offers better value. For those willing to invest more, the Combo 10 Max delivers great performance, but it might be worth waiting for a price drop.
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