**Revised Overview of Roomba Models and Launches**

**UPDATE: Mar. 11, 2025, 4:05 p.m. EDT** – iRobot has rolled out a new collection of Roombas, which includes the Roomba 105, Roomba 205, Roomba Plus 405, and Roomba Plus 505. I am presently evaluating these models at my residence and will augment this guide with my insights shortly.

### Grasping Roomba’s Heritage

A common misconception is using “Roomba” as a generic term for all robotic vacuums, but it is, in fact, a brand name tied exclusively to iRobot. This widespread misunderstanding underscores the significant presence iRobot has gained in the automated floor cleaning sector.

For over 20 years, iRobot has reliably delivered some of the top robot vacuums. Since the debut of the first Roomba in 2002, over 20 models have hit the market. Nonetheless, only a handful maintain relevance at any moment, simplifying the choice of optimal options during shopping.

### How to Identify Roomba Variants

Initially, the alphanumeric codes in Roomba model names might be perplexing. However, grasping a few crucial classification trends makes differentiating them considerably simpler.

When selecting a Roomba, you’ll mainly be deciding among iRobot’s primary lineup—usually three to five active series featured on iRobot’s website. Here’s a straightforward outline:

– **Models sporting a letter and number (e.g., j9+ or i5) or the term “Max”** are more sophisticated.
– **Models that contain only numbers (e.g., 692) or straightforward names (e.g., Roomba Vac or Essential)** are more fundamental.

As of early 2025, the principal Roomba series, arranged from most to least advanced, include:

1. **Max Series**
2. **J Series**
3. **S Series** (almost discontinued)
4. **I Series**
5. **Essential Series** (most elementary, lacks smart mapping)

A **plus sign (+)** in the model identifier (e.g., j9+) suggests that the Roomba is equipped with a self-emptying dock. Models that incorporate **”Combo”** in their names also possess mopping functionalities. Several Roombas are available in various configurations, either including or excluding mopping and self-emptying capabilities.

The **”Max”** label, launched with the **Roomba Combo 10 Max**, pertains to mopping Roombas that can clean and dry their mop pads within the self-emptying dock. Conversely, **”Essential”** variants signify the most basic Roombas, which do not include smart mapping.

To ascertain if a Roomba features smart mapping, examine the product description closely. If “Smart Mapping” is not specifically stated, the model lacks the ability to map your home or clean designated rooms upon request. Phrases like “Smart Navigation” or “cleans in tidy rows” do not equate to genuine smart mapping.

### When is the Upcoming Roomba Launch?

It’s doubtful that a new Roomba will be announced before spring 2025, and even then, it likely won’t be the next flagship model. If you’re anticipating the next significant Roomba launch, expect it around **August or September 2025**.

Unlike other robot vacuum brands that typically showcase new releases at **CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in January**, iRobot adheres to a distinct timeline. The previous two flagship Roombas—the **Combo j9+ (2023)** and **Combo 10 Max (2024)**—were both revealed in late summer, with subsequent fall release dates.

Additionally, iRobot regularly updates existing Roomba series throughout the year with refreshed entry-level offerings.

### Choosing the Ideal Roomba for Your Requirements

Roombas often go on sale, even beyond major shopping occasions like **Black Friday, Prime Day, or holiday promotions**. At any moment, you might encounter a Roomba discounted by $100 or $200. While I provide the standard retail price (MSRP) for each model, I will also emphasize typical sale prices in the recommendations below.

If you’re uncertain which Roomba best suits your home, I’ve evaluated nearly every Roomba series introduced since 2019 and compiled a **detailed comparison guide**.

**Note:** This guide does not encompass every Roomba model ever produced, nor does it endorse every model currently available on iRobot’s website. Instead, I concentrate on the Roombas that deliver the best **value** across various categories, such as mopping, smart mapping, obstacle detection, and budget-conscious choices. Each model’s battery performance and self-emptying features are also highlighted.

### The Top Roombas for 2025