iRobot Roomba 690 Wi-Fi Dirt Detecting Robotic Vacuum

Last updated: August 18, 2023

iRobot Roomba 690 Wi-Fi Dirt Detecting Robotic Vacuum
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We looked at the top Robotic Vacuums and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Robotic Vacuum you should buy.

Editor's Note : 

DEAL ALERT: 25-35% OFF iRobot Roomba Robotic Vacuums until October 1st.

Overall Take

Don't let a limited budget stop you from owning a Roomba that offers smart connectivity, adaptive navigation technology, and an slim design. Although the 690 is lacking a bit in suction and bin space compared to pricier models, it's a great starter machine for consumers who are ready to enter the world of robotic cleaning at value price.

In our analysis of 57 expert reviews, the iRobot Roomba 690 Wi-Fi Dirt Detecting Robotic Vacuum placed 12th when we looked at the top 16 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

Connect to clean from anywhere with the Roomba 690 robot vacuum. The patented 3-Stage Cleaning System is specially engineered to loosen, lift, and suction everything from small particles to large debris from carpets and hard floors. Dirt Detect sensors alert the Roomba robot vacuum to clean more thoroughly on concentrated areas of dirt. Just press Clean or schedule Roomba on the go with the iRobot HOME App.

Expert Reviews


What experts liked

Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant voice commands.
This vacuum allows the unit to drive around and literally detect dirt and debris around your home.
Connects to home Wi-Fi networks and links to companion mobile app.
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The 690 is Wi-Fi-enabled and works with Google Home and Alexa. On the app, you can check the battery’s status, schedule cleanings, and keep track of time spent cleaning and your Dirt Detect events.
- Wired
Its slim design allowed it to maneuver under our furniture. It would go directly into spot clean mode when it detected a lot of sand.
Offers iAdapt navigation and preset schedulling technology that Roomba is known for at a fraction of the price of other models.
The most impactful feature is that it’s meant to be repaired over time, at home—and iRobot has an excellent track record for keeping spare parts available for ages.
Great at collecting pet hair and excellent cleaning power.

What experts didn't like

Navigation issues with dark flooring and docking in testing.
Sugar was the only area where it struggled to perform, only cleaning 66% of the total debris field.
The 690 doesn’t tell you the square footage that it has covered, just the time spent cleaning.
- Wired
The dirt bin for the 690 is not as big as the 890 (1-1/3 vs 2 cups). The 690 seemed to intentionally avoid cleaning near its charging station (to not move it), so any debris near the charging station will most likely have to be manually cleaned.
Somewhat less powerful thank other Roomba models.
On the downside, it’s louder, bigger, more expensive to buy, and not obviously better at cleaning.
It is a little too pricey for its poor performance for us to recommend it as a value option, as there are other vacuums that perform essentially identically and cost about $100 less...
View our Robotic Vacuum buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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