iRobot has unveiled two fresh robot vacuum models that push the boundaries of what these devices can do on their own. The Roomba Max 875 and Roomba Plus 678 represent a significant shift in how cleaning systems operate, introducing features that handle vacuuming, mopping, and self-maintenance with minimal human input.

Premium Power Meets All-in-One Cleaning

The Roomba Max 875, priced at $1,200, leads the pack with an impressive 35,000Pa of suction power. The Plus 678 trails slightly behind at 30,000Pa but still delivers more than enough force for most households. Both models incorporate iRobot’s SealForce Vacuuming Technology, which the company claims provides three times deeper carpet cleaning compared to their standard vacuum systems.

What truly sets these models apart is their commitment to reducing your workload. Once the Max 875 returns to its dock, the system handles debris disposal automatically. The dock washes the mop roller using water heated to 176 degrees Fahrenheit, refills the robot with fresh water and cleaning solution, and prepares it for the next cleaning cycle. This level of automation means you could go weeks without touching the device.

Smart Mopping Innovation

smart dock automatic cleaning robot
Photo by Pexels

The mop design represents a major upgrade from traditional robot vacuum approaches. Instead of spinning pads, both models use a roller that extends outward to reach tight spaces along walls and baseboards. The Max 875 takes this further with a mechanism that lifts and seals the mop when it detects carpet, preventing wet fibers from soaking your rugs.

During mopping cycles, the Max 875 sprays heated mist onto floors to break down stubborn, dried-on spills. The Plus 678 uses a high-pressure water spray instead, which still tackles tough messes but without the heat function. iRobot has also upgraded the main brush with a hair-cutting design, addressing a common frustration for pet owners and anyone with long hair.

Both models navigate using LiDAR technology and incorporate front-facing cameras to recognize obstacles and adjust their paths accordingly. This means your floors get cleaned thoroughly while the robot avoids getting stuck on toys, cables, or other household items left in its path.

If you’re shopping for a top-rated robot vacuum for hands-free floor care, it’s worth noting how rapidly this category has evolved. Modern flagship models now function as complete cleaning systems rather than simple debris collectors, and iRobot is catching up with competitors who have already introduced similar technologies.

The Affordable Alternative

heated mop water spray floor
Photo by Dreame Vacuum Cleaner

At $900, the Roomba Plus 678 makes advanced cleaning technology more accessible. You sacrifice the heated mist and the carpet mop-sealing mechanism, but you retain robust suction, the extending roller mop, automatic emptying, and dock-based cleaning. The Plus 678 represents a smart middle ground for buyers who want automation and dual-function cleaning without the maximum price tag.

This pricing strategy matters. As the robot vacuum market matures, having options at multiple price points helps more households justify the upgrade. Whether your main concern is pet hair, sticky kitchen spills, or simply the burden of pushing a traditional vacuum around, these two models offer different solutions.

What This Means for Shoppers

The broader trend here reflects how seriously manufacturers are taking the chore of floor cleaning. When you compare today’s options to models from just a few years ago, the difference is striking. Competitors have introduced their own innovations, including features like automatic mop removal for carpets, and Roomba is clearly determined to remain competitive.

If you’ve been hesitant about robot vacuums because you didn’t think they could handle mopping or because you hated the thought of frequent maintenance, these models directly address those concerns. The question now is whether the price justifies the convenience for your household. Both the Roomba Max 875 and Plus 678 are available immediately, making them strong options if you’re ready to automate your floor care without hiring a cleaning service.