Roomba 805 – Review, Comparisons, FAQ & Buyer’s Guide

It’s a busy world today. We are so buried in our professional deadlines that when we come back to our nests, the only thing we want is to sit back and relax. And amid such a high-pressure routine, it’s too much of a task to squeeze out time for cleaning and vacuuming. Won’t it have been great if we could have somebody else to do those tedious house stuff for us? You bet. Well, this is where Roomba 805 comes in.

This is a state-of-the-art robovac which will answer all your prayers and make your life a lot easier. Here I have covered a detailed review on Roomba 805 where you will get to know about its amazing features, how the iRobot Roomba 805 is helpful and also its differences in comparison to other Roomba models.

Roomba PhotoProduct CodeRunning hoursWeightDetails
iRobot Roomba 805iRobot Roomba 80575 mins 8.40 pounds
iRobot Roomba 890iRobot Roomba 89060 mins8.40 pounds
iRobot Roomba 880iRobot Roomba 88075 mins8.40 pounds
iRobot Roomba 650iRobot Roomba 65040 mins7.00 pounds
iRobot Roomba 690iRobot Roomba 69060 mins7.80 pounds
iRobot Roomba 980iRobot Roomba 980120 mins8.70 pounds
Review of iRobot Roomba 860iRobot Roomba 86060 mins8.00 pounds
iRobot Roomba 960iRobot Roomba 96075 mins8.60 pounds
Review of iRobot Roomba 665iRobot Roomba 66590 mins8.00 pounds
Review of iClebo ArteiClebo Arte160 mins6.20 pounds
Review of Neato Botvac ConnectaedNeato Botvac Connected120 mins6.40 pounds

What is a Roomba 805

Launched in 2002 by iRobot, Roomba is a revolution which has redefined the traditional process of house cleaning and for better. One of the pioneering robovacs, the Roomba unit has garnered a huge niche of raving customers today, thanks to its superior efficiency, ergonomic design and affordable pricing.

Unlike other canister or upright hoovers, the nifty iRobot Roomba 805 model is way quieter and engineered to work autonomously.

Review of Roomba 805 vs other Roombas

Roomba 805 – Review and Features

Review of iRobot Roomba 805

Akin to standard vacs, the iRobot Roomba 805 is equipped with multiple brushes, two wheels and Power button. But, there’s more in the hoover to amaze you.

Your absolute home cleaning helper – Roomba 805

Brief overview

Circular in shape, the Roomba 805 sports a brush on the side, two wheels and couple of rolling extractors. The device recharges itself independently by connecting to docking station and will notify the user when the vacuum cycle gets completed.

It’s true that robotic vacuums like Roomba 805 are comparatively costlier than cordless vacuum models yet they usually command more advanced features and hence are worth your investment. The iRobot Roomba 805 is able to operate autonomously and saves you from the hassles of manual vacuuming. It can scan configuration of user premise which helps it to navigate conveniently across the rooms, bypassing any obstacle en-route.

Specs of Roomba 805

  • Product weight- around 8.4 pounds
  • Product dimensions- around 18.2 width x 16.5 length by 5.5 inches thickness

The iRobot Roomba 805 features 5 buttons. You will find a large CLEAN button on the robovac which will help you to switch on/off the robot. Then there is the DOCK button which will signal Roomba 805 to head to docking station. Besides, you will find SCHEDULE and CLOCK buttons which will help to set time as well frequency of vacuuming. Finally, there is the SPOT button which will command the iRobot Roomba 805 to perform accurate and/or deeper clean-up of a specific area (around 3 ft. in diameter).

The complete Roomba 805 package includes:

  • The iRobot Roomba 805
  • Power chord
  • Docking station
  • Additional filter
  • Couple of virtual wall-barriers and batteries for both

How to start the iRobot Roomba 805?

First you will need to tap on “Clean” button which will kickstart the Roomba 805 in seconds. However, make sure the robovac is fully charged prior to turning it on. For that, you will have to set the “Docking/Home” station and place the Roomba robot on it. Then, you can press on “CLEAN”.

As soon as you will put the Roomba 805 on charge, a white colored battery indicator will display the charging sign. After the battery signal turns green, push “CLEAN” again. Now, your Roomba is all set to shoulder all your vacuuming needs.

Based on user feedback of the Roomba 805, the robovac’s movements might appear to be tad random and chaotic initially. But no worries, it just takes a few moments to adjust itself to a flooring surface and to scan out the whole room. Once it gets accustomed to the area, it will move like a a wave on the ocean.

If we follow iRobot 805 instructions, the robot’s cleaning cycle will last for around 60 minutes. Once it’s done, the Roomba 805 will move back to Docking Station to switch itself off. In fact, the robovac will also notify users when dust container gets filled up through an indicator light. You might have to use the robovac twice in one session, based on the condition of your floor.

Important:

Given its low-profile design, the Roomba 805 is able to reach almost anywhere across the floor. So, check beforehand there is no kind of power cord on the surface. Also pick up fragile objects (if any) from tables and floor prior to starting the vac. The surface should be dry as wet surfaces could create issues for the robovac during the cleaning operation.

Virtual Walls

The Roomba 805 carries two devices and you can run it in 2 modes. One, when the switch says “UP”, an invisible barrier (up to 10 ft.) is created. Once the robovac recognizes the wall barrier, it does not cross them.

In case the switch has been turned “DOWN”, a circular invisible screen (around 24 inches) comes up around the particular object which you wish to keep away from the hoover. Based on actual user reviews of Roomba 805, the robot is absolutely safe for both humans and pets.

So, that’s pretty much about Roomba 805. You may ask, does Roomba 805 have wifi? Well, when the 805 was released, Wi-Fi connected robovacs were rare in the market. In fact, now it has become more of a trend and you will get it in newer iRobot models like e6. So, if you compare iRobot 805 and iRobot e6, lack of Wi-Fi will be one major point of difference. The iRobot e6 scores on the wifi aspect.

Now, let’s take a comparative study between the 805 and other robovacs from the Roomba family.

Roomba 890 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 890

One of the latest models from iRobot, the Roomba 890 houses some amazingly cool stuff. As mentioned previously, Roomba 805 wifi is not feasible but you will get complete Wi-Fi compatibility with the Roomba 890.

The new model can be operated via a free app which works on both iOS and Android platforms. Users will receive notification on app once the robovac finishes cleaning or if an issue pops up during operation.

Then, the 890 is backed by an advanced filter, equipped with different extractors compared to Roomba 805. However, sometimes, the unit might behave odd and can have issue in finding Docking station.

It’s to note here, akin to Roomba 805, this unit too comes with virtual wall-barriers.

Roomba 880 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 880

A newer unit in comparison to Roomba 805, the iRobot Roomba 880 is a tad smaller (13.9 by 13.9 by 3.6 inches) and assures remote operation. Unlike the Roomba 805 that works with LIB batteries, the Roomba 880 operates with special batteries.

Akin to 850, the iRobot Roomba 880 is black in color and round in shape but it looks more modern and sleeker. If you check Roomba 805 diameter and that of 880, the 880 will always look smaller. Besides, it features more prominent silver buttons. In regard to noise level, the robovac assures a more of a quieter operation in comparison to bigger models.

Roomba 650 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 650

When it comes to Roomba 650 vs 805, the 805 stands out with more numbers of brushes. The 805 comes with couple of same debris extractors, the 650 has just one single extractor.

However, akin to 805, the 650 is backed by sensors which help the device to bypass stairs as well as eliminate falling accidents. It allows to set a cleaning schedule and once set, the device works accordingly. It’s to note here, compared to 850, the Roomba 650 features more buttons (eight) which implies slightly complicated operation.

Then, the 650 model shows a comparatively more chaotic movement as well as bumps into objects real harsh. But, the good thing is, the unit comes with pullout handle which allows easy portability across your home. In regard to cleaning quality, the 805 is more efficient in tackling pet hair vs the 650

Roomba 690 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 690

The Roomba 690 commands an upper hand over the 805 especially in regard to wifi incompatibility issues. More precisely, it’s the first ever Wi-Fi compatible robovac from the company.

The 690 unit looks more edgy and also assures a user-friendly operation with just 3 buttons- SPOT, HOME/DOCK as well as CLEAN. The buttons look cool and display cute tiny icons whih enhances the aesthetic appeal of the robovac big time.

The iRobot Roomba 690 has the same brushes and dustbin that you find with 650. You can say, it’s a more updated edition of 650. And yes, there is no charging issue here as the Roomba 690 can find out Docking station easily.

Roomba 980 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 980

One of the most advanced Roomba robovacs, the 980 is absolutely Wi-Fi compatible. Added to app, the unit can even be operated by virtual assistants such as Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa.

If we do a Roomba 805 vs 980, well, the newer model assures a more advanced operation with its carpet-recognition technology. The state-of-the-art technology allows the robovac to increase power when there is a need for more in-depth cleaning. Besides, the 980 features a modern mapping system which assures more efficient and quicker navigation for the robovac.

Interestingly, the iRobot Roomba 980 will send reports on the current phase of home care routine. Moreover, the robovac is able to operate for up till two hours without recharge. Then yes, the 980 is designed with 10x greater suction power compared to previous units by iRobot.

Roomba 860 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 860

If you check from a technical angle, the iRobot Roomba 805 and 860 will appear to be more or less similar. Both come with identical sets of 5 buttons and both are excellent in getting rid of pet fur- although the 860 one is a more advanced model and hence assures a more powerful operation.

But then, the 860 has been backed by a number of enhanced features that you don’t find it 805. These include HEPA filter (great for minute dust particles) and iAdapt technology that assures lesser prep-time before the cleaning operation. Otherwise, the 860 is mostly designed in silver shade the 805 sports a rich black color.

Roomba 960 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 960

The very predecessor of 980, the 960 shares many similarities with its successor. If you do a Roomba 805 vs 960, the latter one is Wi-Fi compatible while the former is not. You can operate the 960 by both apps and virtual assistants.

However, unlike the 980, the 960 doesn’t come with advanced carpet-recognition technology. Then, in regard to operation time, it runs for 75 minutes in one stretch while the 980 assures 2x longer run. However, the 960 is still fifteen minutes longer compared to 805.

Akin to all other 900 models, the 960 too sports an elegant look ad promises user-friendly operation with just 3 buttons- SPOT, HOME/DOCK as well as CLEAN.

Roomba 665 by iRobot

Review of iRobot Roomba 665

The Roomba 655 is a Pet Series model and has been especially designed to tackle pet hair. It assures easy portability, thanks to its nifty top handle.

A quick study on Roomba 655 vs 805 will reveal the 655 moves in more random fashion and can even miss out on couple of spots en-route. But, then, it has shown satisfactory performance in regard to detection and pick-up of both bigger and smaller particles. When it comes to looks, the unit looks somewhat same as the 650 model- only thing is it comes in black and grey shade.

Unlike most of the robovacs from iRobot, this 600 series robovac doesn’t assure a quiet operation.

Neato Botvac Connected

Review of Neato Botvac Connected

This one is not a iRobot Roomba but the I have included a couple of in-demand hot selling models too.

Thanks to its unique half-circle shape, the Neato model can get into sharpest corners of your room easily. But then, it’s to note here, the unit doesn’t carry a side brush. Also, it has a bigger charging station compared to Roomba.

Unlike most Roomba robovacs that are known for almost no-sound operation, the Neato model is pretty loud which could be irksome at times. However, Neato is anyday more powerful as well as assures more efficient handling of carpets.

Moreover, the cleansing algorithm is a bit different with the Neato model. The iRobot robovacs mostly move in a random fashion. But, it’s not the case with the Neato ones. The Neato unit is extremely particular – it will scan the perimeter in the first place and them follow a methodical pattern to clean up your whole room. The end result is a super efficient cleaning and no missed spots.

Besides, while Roomba 805 comes wall barriers, the Botvac carries magnetic strips which one has to place on floor to prevent entry (of the Botvac) in unwanted spaces.

IClebo Arte

Review of iClebo Arte

Launched in 2012, Arte is a state-of-the-art robovac. Manufactured in South Korea, the robovac comes with couple of rotating side-brushes while the Roomba models carry just one. As a result, the Arte is able to pick 2x more waste compared to Roomba units.

Besides, the iCleborobovac is able to cross thresholds ranging up till 20 mm and hence your thick carpets won’t be a trouble for it. The cleaner is armed with 4 kinds of sensors that help the robovac to map and navigate the whole cleaning area with cutting-edge efficiency.

Besides, unlike Roomba models, the Arte one carries a mop. Thus, it can work easily on a wet surface which is difficult with Roomba robovacs. With Roomba, before you run the robovac, you will have to clean up the floor surface properly if there is spilled liquid on your space. But, you don’t have any such hassle with this iClebo model. After cleaning is done, the Arte will travel back to Docking station on its own for a recharge.

It’s to stress here, iClebo assures an expert cleaning assistance thanks to its meticulous mapping of room and in-depth cleaning efficiency.

Final Conclusion

So, you have quite a detailed overview of a wide range of robovacs here. A quick study of the points above will help you to take an informed decision regarding selection of the best compatible robovac for your home.

Some of these models mentioned here are all-purpose robovacs and they will do well on all kinds of flooring. But, some will work especially on carpets while there are also others that run the best on the hard floors. Then, again, some of the robovacs are specifically manufactured to handle pet hair. Moreover, there are advanced units which can help with mopping too. So, consider your specific cleaning needs and cleaning surface before choosing a robovac.

Now, although the Roomba 805 by iRobot seems to lack some specs that we find in newer models, I would say it’s still worth the investment. It’s efficient, able to work on almost all surfaces and also affordable. And it has been around for quite some time and tops the robovac lists almost every time.

All you would have to do is to push the button and once done, this reliable iRobot Roomba 805 robovac will take up all the grunt work of cleaning on your behalf. Yes, it might apparently seem to be little confusing and chaotic but these are just minor nuances which can be overlooked easily. In fact, once you start using it, you will always want this handy cute buzz around you for your daily or weekly home cleaning. Which one’s is your favorite, do chip in with your comments.

About the author

Megan

Megan is a passionate home innovator with 20+ years of experience in home improvement industry. She works as an assistant in a home improvement store in her city. Creating innovative home solutions is what keeps her active in her "me time".

Leave a Comment