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Introduction: The Rise of Robot Vacuums in the UK
Robot vacuums have exploded in popularity across the UK in recent years. No longer a futuristic fantasy, they’ve become a convenient and time-saving solution for maintaining a clean home. Busy lifestyles and a desire for effortless cleaning have driven demand, making these automated helpers a staple in many households. This article will delve into a detailed comparison of two popular models: the iRobot Roomba 675 and the Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty, helping you determine which best suits your needs and budget in 2026.
Roomba 675: A Reliable Entry-Level Robot Vacuum
The iRobot Roomba 675 is a well-established robot vacuum known for its reliability and affordability. It’s a fantastic entry point into the world of automated cleaning, offering a solid performance without breaking the bank. Priced around £189.99, it’s a popular choice for first-time robot vacuum owners.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Suction Power: First Generation Motor – adequate for hard floors and low-pile carpets.
- Battery Life: Up to 90 minutes runtime.
- Navigation: Random Bounce Navigation – relies on bumping into obstacles to cover the floor.
- Sensors: Cliff Detect sensors prevent falls down stairs.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi enabled, compatible with the iRobot Home App.
- Compatibility: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Strengths:
- Affordable price point.
- Simple to use and set up.
- Good for smaller homes and apartments.
- Compatible with voice assistants.
Weaknesses:
- Random navigation can be inefficient.
- Not ideal for large homes or homes with complex layouts.
- Can struggle with thick carpets and significant pet hair.
- Requires manual emptying of the dustbin. Replacement filters are approximately £19.99 for a pack of 3.
Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty: Convenience and Powerful Cleaning
The Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL is a more advanced robot vacuum, boasting a self-emptying base and powerful suction. Priced around £349.99, it represents a significant investment but offers a substantial increase in convenience and cleaning performance.
Key Features and Specifications:
- Suction Power: Strong suction power, suitable for both hard floors and carpets.
- Battery Life: Up to 120 minutes runtime.
- Navigation: Systematic Navigation – maps the room and cleans in neat rows.
- Self-Emptying Base: Automatically empties the dustbin into a sealed bag.
- Multi-Surface Brushroll: Designed to effectively clean both hard floors and carpets.
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi enabled, compatible with the Shark Clean App.
- Compatibility: Works with Alexa and Google Assistant.
Strengths:
- Self-emptying base eliminates frequent dustbin emptying.
- Powerful suction cleans effectively on various surfaces.
- Systematic navigation provides efficient cleaning coverage.
- Suitable for larger homes and pet owners.
Weaknesses:
- Higher price point than the Roomba 675.
- Self-emptying base takes up additional space.
- Replacement bags for the self-emptying base cost approximately £24.99 for a 12-pack.
Head-to-Head Comparison: Roomba 675 vs Shark IQ
| Feature | Roomba 675 | Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty |
|---|---|---|
| Price (2026) | £189.99 | £349.99 |
| Suction Power | Moderate | Strong |
| Battery Life | 90 minutes | 120 minutes |
| Navigation | Random Bounce | Systematic |
| Self-Emptying | No | Yes |
| App Control | Yes | Yes |
| Smart Home Integration | Alexa, Google Assistant | Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Dustbin Capacity | Small | Large (with self-emptying base) |
Cleaning Performance: Which Robot Cleans Better?
In 2026 user testing and reviews consistently demonstrate that the Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty outperforms the Roomba 675 in overall cleaning performance. The Shark’s stronger suction, combined with its multi-surface brushroll, effectively tackles both hard floors and carpets. While the Roomba 675 is adequate for light cleaning on hard floors, it struggles with thicker carpets and embedded dirt. Edge cleaning is also more effective with the Shark IQ, leaving less debris along walls and corners. For pet hair, the Shark IQ’s brushroll is designed to minimise tangling, a common issue with the Roomba 675.
Navigation and Smart Features: How Do They Get Around?
The most significant difference lies in navigation. The Roomba 675 employs a random bounce pattern, essentially bumping into obstacles until it has (hopefully) covered the entire floor. This method is inefficient and can lead to missed spots. The Shark IQ, on the other hand, uses systematic navigation, mapping the room and cleaning in neat, overlapping rows. This results in a more thorough and efficient clean. Both robots offer app control, allowing you to schedule cleaning sessions and monitor progress. They both integrate seamlessly with Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.
Self-Emptying Base: A Game Changer?
The Shark IQ’s self-emptying base is a genuine game-changer. It eliminates the need to empty the dustbin after every cleaning session – a task many find tedious. The base holds weeks worth of debris, significantly reducing maintenance. While the cost of replacement bags (around £24.99 for 12) adds to the ongoing expense, the convenience it provides is often well worth the cost for busy households. The Roomba 675 requires manual dustbin emptying, a frequent task, especially in homes with pets or children.
Price and Availability in the UK (2026)
As of late 2026, the iRobot Roomba 675 is widely available from major retailers such as Currys, Argos, and John Lewis, as well as online through Amazon. It retails for approximately £189.99. The Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL is also available from the same retailers and online, priced around £349.99. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales and promotions, particularly during Black Friday and Boxing Day, for potential discounts.
Who Should Buy the Roomba 675?
The Roomba 675 is perfect for:
- Budget-conscious buyers.
- Owners of smaller homes or apartments.
- Individuals who don’t require advanced features like self-emptying.
- Those looking for a simple and easy-to-use robot vacuum.
Who Should Buy the Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty?
The Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL is ideal for:
- Busy homeowners who want a hands-free cleaning experience.
- Pet owners dealing with pet hair.
- Owners of larger homes or homes with complex layouts.
- Those who prioritize powerful cleaning performance and convenience.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Ultimately, the best robot vacuum for you depends on your individual needs and budget. The Roomba 675 offers a reliable and affordable entry into the world of robot cleaning, suitable for smaller homes and lighter cleaning tasks. However, the Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty XL delivers a superior cleaning performance, increased convenience with its self-emptying base, and more efficient navigation. While it comes at a higher price, the time saved and the thorough clean it provides make it a worthwhile investment for many UK households. If you’re looking for a hands-off cleaning solution and don’t mind the extra cost, the Shark IQ is the clear winner. If budget is a primary concern, the Roomba 675 remains a solid choice.
Considering a complete floor care solution? The iRobot Braava Jet m6 Robot Mop (£399.99) complements either robot vacuum perfectly, taking care of hard floor mopping alongside automated vacuuming.
FAQ
Q: How often do I need to replace the bags in the Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty?
The frequency of bag replacement depends on the size of your home and the amount of debris. Typically, a 12-pack of bags should last several months, but heavily soiled homes may require more frequent changes.
Q: Can either robot vacuum handle thick carpets?
The Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty performs better on thicker carpets due to its stronger suction. The Roomba 675 may struggle with carpets that have a high pile.
Q: Are these robots noisy?
Both robots produce some noise during operation, but the Shark IQ is generally slightly quieter than the Roomba 675. Neither is excessively loud, but you will be able to hear them working.
Q: Can I schedule cleaning sessions with both robots?
Yes, both the Roomba 675 and the Shark IQ Robot Self-Empty can be scheduled through their respective mobile apps.
Q: Do these robots avoid obstacles like shoes and cables?
While both robots have sensors to detect obstacles, they aren’t perfect. It’s best to tidy up loose items and cables before running a cleaning cycle to prevent them from getting tangled or damaged.