iRobot Roomba i4 Vacuum

The Roomba i4 performs well on carpets and picks up a significant amount of dirt and debris. Two-thirds of users report that their carpets look cleaner after each cleaning cycle.

The battery typically lasts 60-90 minutes of continuous use on a single charge. When the battery runs low, the vacuum automatically returns to its charging dock and is ready for the next cleaning session.

The Roomba i4 is relatively quiet, with most users describing the noise level as moderate. While noticeable during operation, most customers find the sound level acceptable and not disruptive to daily activities.

For pet hair, look for strong suction (roughly 20,000 Pa or more on a robot vacuum, 150 AW or more on a cordless), a tangle-resistant brush roll, a dedicated pet tool, and HEPA filtration, which by definition captures 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns. Dyson, Shark and Bissell all make well-reviewed pet models. Use the Pet Hair Specialist filter on our comparison table to see which ones are in stock and what they cost right now.

Most manufacturers suggest replacing filters every 3 to 6 months, depending on how often you vacuum and whether you have pets. HEPA filters usually last 12 to 18 months if you clean them regularly. Washable foam filters on bagless models should be rinsed every 1 to 2 weeks and dried fully before going back in. Replacements typically run $15 to $50. A clogged filter chokes airflow, so suction drops noticeably well before the filter looks dirty.