iRobot’s Roomba robot vacuums have come a long way since the original Roomba was introduced in 2002. Two of iRobot’s most popular and advanced models are the Roomba 980, which was released in 2015, and the newer Roomba J7, which hit the market in 2021.
These high-end robot vacuums have some key differences that are important to consider if you’re trying to decide between the 980 and J7.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Roomba 980 | Roomba J7 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2021 |
| Navigation Tech | vSLAM mapping | PrecisionVision camera & AI |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Basic | Advanced object recognition |
| App Connectivity | Basic WiFi app control | Enhanced features with iRobot Genius |
| Voice Control | Via Alexa skill | Native Alexa & Google Assistant |
| Runtime | 120 minutes | 75 minutes |
| Auto Dirt Disposal | No | Yes, with Clean Base |
| P.O.O.P. Tech | No | Yes |
| Suction Power | Excellent | Excellent |
| Price | $400-$700 refurbished | $850 for robot, $350 for base |
Key Takeaways
- The Roomba J7 is the overall better choice thanks to advanced navigation and mapping features, but the 980 remains a powerful cleaner at a more budget-friendly price point.
- For pet owners, the J7’s specialized pet waste avoidance gives it a big advantage.
- The 980 has up to 120 minutes of runtime versus the J7’s 75 minutes, better for large homes.
- Refurbished 980s cost significantly less than a new J7 and Clean Base combo.
- PrecisionVision navigation and AI makes the J7 better at avoiding obstacles like cords and clutter.
- Both models have excellent cleaning performance on carpets and hard floors. The 980 may have slightly stronger raw suction.
Overview of The Roomba 980
The Roomba 980 was iRobot’s flagship robot vacuum until being discontinued in 2020. This WiFi-connected, self-charging robot vacuum used some of iRobot’s most advanced technologies at the time of its release.
Some key features and specs of the Roomba 980 include:
- Powerful suction with AeroForce Performance Cleaning System and carpet boost technology
- WiFi connectivity and controllable via iRobot HOME app or voice assistants
- Smart navigation with vSLAM technology to map home and clean efficiently in neat rows
- Low profile design to clean under beds and sofas
- Automatically recharges and resumes cleaning until job is complete
- Run time of up to 120 minutes per charge
- Easy dirt disposal with large capacity bin
- Basic scheduling options to automate cleaning
- Ideal for homes with pets
The 980 introduced new navigation technologies not seen in earlier Roomba models that allowed the robot to map a home’s floorplan and methodically clean in neat rows instead of the random bouncing patterns of previous models.
This made cleaning more efficient and thorough.
The Roomba 980 consistently ranks as one of iRobot’s best robot vacuums, even several years after its release. It’s powerful suction and long-running lithium ion battery allow it to thoroughly clean large areas of up to 1800 square feet on a single charge.
But because it’s no longer in production, replacement parts may be harder to come by if repairs are needed down the road. Nonetheless, many Roomba fans still seek out refurbished 980 models because of its stellar cleaning performance.
Overview of The Roomba J7
The Roomba J7 was released in 2021 and is iRobot’s latest intelligent mapping robot vacuum. It introduces some new technologies and improvements over the older 980.
Here are some key features of the J7:
- Powerful 3-stage cleaning system with strong suction
- PrecisionVision Navigation uses AI and computer vision to recognize objects and avoid obstacles
- Self-emptying Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal empties the robot’s bin after each cleaning
- Linked to iRobot Genius Home Intelligence system which gets smarter over time
- Quieter operation than older models
- Automatically avoids pet waste with P.O.O.P. (Pet Owner Official Promise) technology
- Alexa and Google Assistant voice control compatibility
- RUNTIME: 75 minutes
- CLEANING SPACE: 2,000 sq. ft.
Some of the biggest upgrades with the J7 are in its navigation system. PrecisionVision allows the robot to identify and avoid common objects like shoes, cords, pet waste, and more that could entangle previous Roombas. This makes it far less likely to get stuck mid-cleaning.
The addition of the Clean Base for automatic dirt disposal is also a huge perk.
The robot empties its bin after each job so you don’t have to empty it manually between cleanings.
Advanced mapping capabilities and AI-powered home intelligence allow the J7 to offer features like room-specific cleaning.
You can direct the robot to clean only certain rooms on command or schedule. This wasn’t possible with older WiFi Roombas like the 980.
For pet owners especially, the J7’s P.O.O.P detection skill is a game changer to avoid unpleasant pet waste incidents.
Head-to-Head Comparison of Roomba 980 And J7 Robot Vacuums
Now let’s directly compare some of the key specs and features of the Roomba 980 vs. J7:
- Cleaning Performance
The Roomba 980 and J7 both have excellent cleaning performance. They share the three-stage cleaning system with rubber brushes, an edge-sweeping brush, and strong suction power.
Both models have carpets boost modes to automatically increase suction when rolling over carpets.
The 980 may have a slight edge in raw suction power, but the J7 has some design improvements that make it more effective at picking up pet hair. Overall cleaning ability is comparable.
- Navigation and Mapping
This is an area where the J7 really shines compared to the older 980. The J7’s PrecisionVision navigation uses advanced computer vision and AI to map a home and identify/avoid obstacles. This allows the J7 to clean more efficiently with less risk of getting stuck.
The 980 uses vSLAM technology to map and navigate which was advanced for its time but can’t match the J7’s next-level abilities. Both Roombas lack manual mapping capabilities found in some higher-end competitors.
- App and Voice Control
You can control both the 980 and J7 through the iRobot HOME app. However, the link with the iRobot Genius software gives the J7 an edge when it comes to features like room-specific cleaning and customization.
They both also work with Alexa and Google voice commands. The 980 requires the iRobot Skill enabled in Alexa.
- Automatic Dirt Disposal
The J7’s Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal unit allows it to empty its bin automatically after each job. This keeps the robot running better for longer periods without needing manual bin emptying. The 980 lacks this feature.
- Pet Hair Handling
Pet hair pickup is excellent in both models, especially in Carpet Boost mode. The 980 may have a bit stronger suction, but the J7 has an improved dirt detection sensor and brush design optimized for homes with pets.
The J7’s special P.O.O.P detection also avoids messy pet waste incidents.
- Runtime
The Roomba 980 is the winner when it comes to runtime. It can run for up to 120 minutes per charge. The J7 manages 75 minutes max. For larger homes, the 980 can cover more ground before needing to recharge.
- Pricing
As an older discontinued model, the Roomba 980 is only available refurbished directly from iRobot or other retailers for $400-$700. The J7 has an MSRP around $850. The J7’s self-emptying Clean Base station is another $350.
So the total investment for the J7 and its base is significantly higher than a refurbished 980. Watch the review of 980 from here!
Which Is Better For You?
For most users, the improved navigation and mapping abilities make the Roomba J7 the better overall choice between these two robot vacuums if budget allows. But the 980 still holds up remarkably well despite being older technology.
Here are some quick recommendations based on different user needs:
- For advanced mapping and obstacle avoidance – J7 is the clear winner. Its computer vision and PrecisionVision Navigation are far superior for avoiding obstacles like pet toys and cords.
- For large homes – The Roomba 980’s longer runtime allows it to cover more ground per cleaning cycle. Good for larger houses.
- For pet owners – J7 for sure. The P.O.O.P detection skill is invaluable for avoiding unpleasant pet waste incidents.
- For budget buyers – Refurbished Roomba 980 models are significantly cheaper than the J7. You’ll still get excellent cleaning performance in an older package.
- For easy bin emptying – The J7’s self-emptying Clean Base makes bin maintenance a breeze. A useful upgrade for those who hate emptying the bin manually.
While the J7 has cutting-edge technology on its side, the venerable Roomba 980 still holds up remarkably well thanks to its solid fundamental cleaning abilities. It’s ideal for buyers who want excellent cleaning at a more budget-friendly price point and don’t need the latest navigation features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, the Roomba 980 has been discontinued by iRobot as of 2020. However, refurbished 980 models are still available from iRobot and some other retailers while supplies last.
The Roomba 980 first launched in 2015 and was sold until being discontinued by iRobot in 2020 after over 5 years on the market.
The Roomba J7 is considered better than the i7. The J7 has improved navigation and obstacle avoidance capabilities thanks to PrecisionVision technology and front-facing cameras. It also avoids pet waste, has longer battery life, and works with the self-emptying Clean Base.
Yes, the Roomba 980 uses vSLAM technology to map out a home during cleaning and plan efficient cleaning routes. However, the 980’s mapping functionality is fairly basic compared to the more advanced mapping capabilities found on the J7.
Final Thoughts
So in summary, while the J7 is more technologically advanced, the Roomba 980 is still a fantastic robot vacuum at a more affordable price point. Consider your needs and budget to choose the best iRobot option for your home.