Roomba 890 vs 891 comparison review
The Roomba 890 vs. 891 debate has been going around since the conception of these two models. Both robot vacuums present a blend of old features and a couple of new ones inherent in the 900 Series.
I would recommend any of these robovacs if you have carpets and furry family members.
But the question is, how do these bots differ?
Having used these two models in our humble abode, I decided to make a comparison for each Roomba.
But before we dive deeper into the Roomba 890 vs. 891 review, let me give you a short idea of what each model has in store for you.
Table of Contents
Roomba 890 What Does the it Offer?
The iRobot Roomba 890 operates with AeroForce™ 3-Stage Cleaning System to ensure a swift and mighty cleaning job that requires less maintenance.
With 1000 Pa suction power, it eliminates all kinds of detritus on bare floors to medium-pile carpets. This robot vacuum also applies Dirt Detect™ Technology. During this mode, it works a lot harder on the congested area until that spot is squeaky clean.
Aside from the iRobot Home App, this model supports Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. Hence, you can make cleaning schedules or command the robot to clean a designated room at any time of the day.
The Roomba 890 has 60 minutes of runtime. If it is low on battery, it will head back to its dock for charging. Don’t worry about deadly falls on its way back because the bot has cliff sensors to boot.
Moreover, this unit utilizes the iAdapt® Navigation. Therefore, the robot drives around with a purpose and creates a cleaning pattern for future reference.
Apart from a sturdy build, this unit comes with a bumper ring to protect your investment from damage due to collisions. If you want your bot to stay out of your pet’s nook, you can set up an invisible barrier using the Virtual Wall® that comes with the product.
Roomba 891 What Does the it Offer?
The iRobot Roomba 891 has all the standard features and design traits of its predecessor. For instance, you have the functionality of the iRobot Home app, Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. Hence, you can control your robovac anywhere anytime, as long as there is a Wi-Fi connection in your abode.
Also, this unit boasts of strong suction and utilizes the AeroForce™ 3-Stage Cleaning System that will generate up to five times more suction power.
This little bot can also suck up large swathes of dander and pet hair on almost any surface. Adding to that, the Roomba 891 applies Dirt Detect™ Technology to keep minute contaminants at bay.
Roomba 890 vs. Roomba 891: Face to Face Comparison
Design
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 sports a circular aesthetic with a black outer ring that leads into a copper-colored top section of the robovac. You will also find three onboard controls and four status indicators on its faceplate.
Roomba 891
Aesthetically, the Roomba 891 also has a tasteful design and a circular aesthetic. iRobot added champagne gold instead of copper alongside the black trim for an elegant flair. Most Roombas exhibit a silver and black color scheme. Hence, the change in tone of this model is a breath of fresh air!
iRobot chose a two-toned finish for both models. Although the style is not a significant concern, you would love to see any of the two sleek robovacs zooming around your house. That aside, both models have an integrated handle so you can pick up and transport your robovac with ease.
Size and Dimensions
Roomba 890
The sturdy build of the Roomba 890 measures 13.9 inches in diameter and 3.6 in height. Also, the robot vacuum weighs 8.4 pounds, which is equivalent to two cartons of milk.
Roomba 891
The Roomba 891, on the other hand, measures 13.9 inches in diameter and 3.59 inches in height. Likewise, the robot vacuum weighs 8.39 pounds.
The size and weight difference between the two robovacs are negligible.
Navigation
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 utilizes iRobot’s original iAdapt® Navigation technology. The bot makes over 60 decisions per second to achieve an outline of your home. With this feature at the helm, the robovac maximizes cleaning efficiency by avoiding unnecessary collisions against furniture, particularly in jam-packed rooms.
Roomba 891
The Roomba 891 has iRobot’s iAdapt® Navigation technology, as well. The bot makes split-second decisions to map out your house. Consequently, it determines the best route with the least obstacles for each room.
Both the 890 and 891 Roombas rely on iRobot’s iAdapt® Navigation technology to create an efficient cleaning pattern. Just as we use our five senses to interact with our environment, these two robovacs share a suite of onboard sensors.
These sensors include the following:
- Infrared beam and photocell sensor — detects walls and enormous obstacles, thereby slowing down the Roomba to avoid a collision
- Touch-sensitive bumper — stops the robot when it hits animate or inanimate objects
- Ledge detection sensors — alerts the bot to turn on a caster wheel when it approaches a drop-off; thus it prevents it from falling down
Dirt Detection
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 is a godsend if your furry pal likes to race around the house with muddy paws and all! Thanks to its Dirt Detect™ technology, the robovac can sense whether a particular spot needs a little extra cleaning. Thus, the robot retraces its steps until that area is spotless.
Roomba 891
The Roomba 891 also features Dirt Detect™ technology. Hence, the robot makes several passes before it moves ahead to clean the rest of your home.
The 890 and 891 Roombas both feature Dirt Detect™ technology. If you have outdoorsy pets, these robots can clean up after their muddy tracks, as well as other things they bring along with them.
Filter System
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 uses a high-efficiency filtration cartridge. The manufacturer claims that the filter can capture 99% of airborne irritants that are as small as 10 microns — which is talcum powder in size. The filter can last for two months, but you also need to dust off the filter when necessary.
Roomba 891
The filter used in the 891 Roomba isn’t shabby, either. iRobot also claims that the filter has a 99% capture rate. The filter can trap particles that are 10 microns in size, including mold spores and pollen.
Neither the Roomba 890 or 891 has a certified True HEPA filter, but you can rest assured that their filtration system keeps allergies at bay.
Connectivity
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 offers more than just a dock and two cleaning modes. When connected to Wi-Fi, it follows your command via the iRobot Home app. Likewise, this model is compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Roomba 891
Aside from the localized buttons, you can control the robovac using the iRobot Home app. But if you want a hands-free operation, you can pair your robot with Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.
Both Roombas offer a variety of control options. The best part is the virtual assistant compatibility. This factor is a massive plus for pet owners who are on the go.
Power Suction
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 has a broad pick up range with a suction power rated at 1 000 Pa. This robovac can suck up air, matted hair, stubborn dirt, and debris with ease. According to iRobot, this model delivers 5x the air power compared to the Roomba 600 and 700 models.
Roomba 891
Similarly, the 891 has a wide-mouth that sucks in air and debris at 1 000Pa. Although this isn’t the most powerful suction available, it is more than enough to tackle dirt and debris out of bare floors and medium-pile carpets.
Both models have a suction power rated at 1 000 Pa. But with Dirt Detect technology™, the robot temporarily boosts the suction when it faces concentrated dirt.
Run Time
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 equips a 1 800 mAh Lithium-ion battery, which delivers 60 to 90 minutes of efficient cleaning. When the battery is low or if the current cleaning session is done, the robovac heads back to its dock. A full charge can last for 180 minutes.
Roomba 891
iRobot also uses a Lithium-ion battery for the Roomba 891. Similarly, the battery has a capacity of 1 800 mAh and gives the bot a runtime of 60 to 90 minutes. The Roomba 891 plays a few notes of a song whenever it docks.
The 890 and 891 Roombas both use a Lithium-ion battery. Each robot vacuum can operate up to 90 minutes, depending on the cleaning mode.
Dustbin Indicator
Roomba 890
The dust bin capacity for the Roomba 890 is 0.75 liters or 25.6 ounces. This model blinks to let you know that the bin is full. Likewise, you can check the canister’s level via the iRobot Home app.
Roomba 891
The Roomba 891 has a smaller bin capacity, which is 10 ounces or 0.29 liters. Nevertheless, the canister has a quick-release system similar to the Roomba 890. The robot also illuminates to let you know that the bin has reached its limit. You can also check the iRobot Home app.
The Roomba 890 has a dust bin capacity of 0.75 liters or 25.6 ounces. Meanwhile, the Roomba 891 can contain 10 ounces or 0.29 liters of dust, dirt, and debris. Although both models have bin indicators, you must empty the canister regularly. These models will stop performing as soon as their bins are full, which can be an inconvenience if you are away.
Noise
Roomba 890
The Roomba 890 has an average noise level of 66.2 decibels, while the ordinary vacuum can operate as loudly as 80 decibels.
Roomba 891
The Roomba 891 also has the same decibel level. To get an idea of how loud that is, think of a baby’s laughter or a quiet office.
The 890 and 891 Roombas have a noise level of 66.2 decibels, which is low enough to keep sleeping dogs lie.
Accessories
Roomba 890
Unboxing the Roomba 890 will give you the following items:
- Advanced dual-mode Virtual Wall® barrier
- Charging station
- AeroForce filter (and an extra filter)
Not to mention, the robovac itself equips:
- a 27-degree side brush for cleaning deep into wall corners;
- two tangle-resisting rubber brushes;
- and an auto-adjusting floor plate that keeps the suction inlet as close to the floor as possible.
Roomba 891
There is almost no difference between the 890 and 891 Roombas.
Each Roomba has the same suite of brushes.
The only accessory that the Roomba 891 lacks from its predecessor is the Virtual Wall® barrier.
The 891 also doesn’t have an extra filter.
The Roomba 891 doesn’t have a Virtual Wall® barrier and an extra filter. However, you can always buy these accessories when need be.
Roomba 890 vs. 891: Cleaning Tests
We performed quick tests using four debris types placed on three different surfaces. We only gave each model a maximum of 10 minutes to clean.
- 3 ounces of cat litter
- 1 ounce of corn flakes
- 3 ounces of rice
- 3 ounces of iodized salt
Hardwood Floor
| Cat Litter | Corn Flakes | Rice | Iodized Salt | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roomba 890 | 92% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
| Roomba 891 | 92% | 100% | 100% | 100% |
Low-Pile Carpet
| Cat Litter | Corn Flakes | Rice | Iodized Salt | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roomba 890 | 100% | 100% | 100% | 65% |
| Roomba 891 | 100% | 100% | 100% | 65% |
High-Pile Carpet
| Cat Litter | Corn Flakes | Rice | Iodized Salt | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roomba 890 | 100% | 100% | 100% | 50% |
| Roomba 891 | 100% | 100% | 100% | 50% |
Frequently Asked Questions
Roomba 890 vs 891: which model is the best for carpets and pet hair?
The only difference is their dustbins. Roomba 890 can boast of a twice bigger 600 ml cap, while Roomba 891 is equipped with a 300 ml container. Thus, a more capacious option may be more preferable for hair and carpet cleaning.
How can I use virtual barrier with my Roomba 890?
Down position creates circle provection around itself. The only thing you need to do is to turn the barrier on, set the switch, and put the device on the floor. Roomba will automatically notice the Virtual Barrier and avoid it.
Are Roomba 890 and 891 suitable for allergic people?
Roomba 890 and 891 significantly improve the air quality and make allergic people`s lives much better.
Can I buy and set new rollers on my Roomba 891?
Takeaway
Although iRobot has already unveiled a new line of robot vacuums, the Roomba 890 refused to bow down. This mid-tier robovac remains an excellent choice for pet owners living in a small apartment or a typical middle-class home.
Besides, the Roomba 890 offers incredible suction power without causing your ears to hurt or your energy bills to soar sky-high. My only gripe is that the Roomba 890 has an old navigation system and a shorter runtime.
So between the Roomba 890 vs. 891, which one is the champ?
With all things considered, 890 and 891 Roombas are equal. Both equip the same brushes and have smart features, such as AeroForce™ 3-Stage Cleaning System, iAdapt® Navigation, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
The two robovacs differ only in appearance and the included accessories. The Roomba 891 does not add an extra filter and a Virtual Wall®, but you can always buy these anytime.
I`m Gary Johns and I`m this very person who is responsible for the technical part of all the reviews and tests on this blog.
In 2015 I got a technical degree at the University of California, and since that time I help people and give a professional and detailed overview of any smart technology.
