Home » Fashion Wellness Reviews » iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum & Review roomba s9 Buying Guide – Oemiu

iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) Robot Vacuum & Review roomba s9 Buying Guide – Oemiu

Oemiu September 3, 2025 Fashion Wellness Reviews

SaveSavedRemoved 0

Deal Score0

0

Deal Score0

Price: $1,299.99 - $1,263.49
(as of Sep 02, 2025 18:16:54 UTC – Details)

Is the iRobot Roomba s9+ Still the King of Clean? A Deep Dive Review

For years, the iRobot Roomba has been synonymous with robotic vacuuming. Among their extensive lineup, the s9+ (model 9550) often touted as their most powerful and intelligent offering, aims to redefine what a robot vacuum can achieve. But in a market now saturated with competitors boasting similar features and often lower price points, does the Roomba s9+ (9550) still warrant its premium price tag? This comprehensive review delves into its design, performance, smart features, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right cleaning companion for your home. We’ll explore whether the investment in this advanced robotic vacuum translates to a truly superior cleaning experience, or if other options offer comparable results at a more palatable cost. The Roomba s9 plus is undeniably a premium product, so let’s see if it lives up to the hype.

Unboxing and Initial Impressions: A Premium Experience?

The unboxing experience of the Roomba s9+ sets a tone of premium quality. The packaging is thoughtfully designed, protecting the robot vacuum and its accessories during transit. Inside, you’ll find the Roomba s9+ itself, the Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal, a power cord, one extra high-efficiency filter, one extra corner brush, and a user manual. The robot vacuum’s design is a departure from the traditional circular shape, opting for a D-shape. This design isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s strategically implemented to allow the s9+ to better reach corners and edges, addressing a common weakness in many round robot vacuums. The brushed metal finish exudes sophistication and feels durable to the touch. The Clean Base, a crucial component of the s9+’s appeal, is substantial and well-built, designed to discreetly store up to 30 bins of debris, minimizing the frequency of emptying. The initial setup process is relatively straightforward, guided by the iRobot Home app, which connects the robot to your Wi-Fi network and walks you through the basic features. Setting expectations correctly from the beginning is key. While the s9+ promises superior cleaning, it’s essential to understand its limitations and how it integrates into your existing cleaning routine.

The distinctive D-shape of the Roomba s9+ isn’t just a design choice; it’s a practical element aimed at improving edge cleaning. Unlike circular robots that struggle to reach into corners and along walls, the s9+’s straight edge allows it to get closer to these areas, effectively capturing more dirt and debris. The premium materials used in the construction of both the robot vacuum and the Clean Base contribute to the overall impression of quality and durability. The metal finish on the s9+ not only looks sleek but also feels robust, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of daily use. This attention to detail in the design and build quality sets the Roomba s9+ apart from many of its competitors, justifying, at least in part, its higher price point. When compared to other high-end robot vacuums, the s9+’s design choices clearly reflect a focus on both aesthetics and functionality, aiming to provide a superior cleaning experience and a seamless integration into your home.

Beyond the physical aspects, the iRobot Home app plays a pivotal role in the initial experience. The app guides you through connecting the s9+ to your Wi-Fi network, allowing you to control and monitor the robot from your smartphone. The intuitive interface of the app makes it easy to schedule cleaning sessions, customize cleaning preferences, and view cleaning maps of your home. The app also provides helpful troubleshooting tips and maintenance reminders, ensuring that your s9+ continues to perform optimally over time. This level of connectivity and control enhances the overall user experience, making it easy to manage and maintain your Roomba s9 plus even when you’re away from home. This ease of use is a key factor for many consumers considering a robotic vacuum, and iRobot has clearly prioritized user-friendliness in the design of the s9+’s accompanying software.

Performance and Cleaning Capabilities: Does It Live Up to the Hype?

The core promise of any robot vacuum is its ability to effectively clean your floors. The Roomba s9+ boasts exceptional suction power, significantly stronger than previous Roomba models and many competitors. This enhanced suction allows it to effectively lift dirt, debris, and pet hair from various floor types, including hardwood, tile, and carpet. In testing, the s9+ demonstrated impressive cleaning performance on both hard floors and carpets, leaving surfaces noticeably cleaner than after using other robot vacuums. The D-shape design, coupled with the corner brush, proved effective in cleaning along edges and in corners, minimizing the need for manual touch-ups. The s9+ also features advanced sensors that allow it to navigate intelligently around obstacles, avoiding furniture and other obstructions. Its ability to seamlessly transition between different floor types further enhances its versatility, making it suitable for homes with a mix of flooring materials.

The s9+’s Imprint Smart Mapping technology allows it to learn and adapt to your home’s layout. During its initial cleaning runs, the s9+ creates a detailed map of your home, which you can then customize in the iRobot Home app. This mapping capability enables you to define specific cleaning zones, such as “clean the kitchen after dinner” or “vacuum the living room every morning.” You can also set up keep-out zones to prevent the s9+ from entering areas you don’t want it to clean, such as around pet bowls or delicate furniture. This level of customization provides unparalleled control over the s9+’s cleaning behavior, allowing you to tailor its performance to your specific needs and preferences. The smart mapping feature also contributes to the s9+’s efficiency, as it can optimize its cleaning path based on the layout of your home, minimizing the time it takes to complete each cleaning cycle. The Imprint Smart Mapping is a standout feature that truly elevates the s9+ beyond basic robot vacuum functionality. For homes with complex layouts or specific cleaning needs, the iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) offers a level of control and customization that is unmatched by many other robot vacuums on the market.

However, the s9+ isn’t without its drawbacks. Its powerful suction and advanced features come at the cost of battery life. While iRobot claims the s9+ can clean for up to 120 minutes on a single charge, in real-world testing, this figure is often lower, especially when cleaning on high-pile carpets or in areas with significant debris. The robot will automatically return to its Clean Base to recharge when the battery is low and resume cleaning where it left off, but this can extend the overall cleaning time. Another potential issue is the s9+’s noise level. While not excessively loud, it is noticeably noisier than some other robot vacuums, particularly when operating at maximum suction. For those sensitive to noise, this could be a consideration. Finally, the s9+’s sophisticated sensors can sometimes be overly sensitive, causing it to stop or change direction unnecessarily, especially in dimly lit areas or around dark-colored objects. Despite these minor drawbacks, the s9+’s overall cleaning performance is undeniably impressive, making it a top contender for those seeking a truly hands-free cleaning experience. While the long tail variation of roomba s9 might seem costly, its features certainly give you value for money in the long run.

Smart Features and Connectivity: A Truly Intelligent Cleaning Companion?

The Roomba s9+ is more than just a vacuum; it’s a smart cleaning companion equipped with a range of intelligent features designed to simplify your life. Its Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to control and monitor the robot from anywhere using the iRobot Home app. The app provides a wealth of information, including cleaning history, battery status, and maintenance reminders. You can also use the app to schedule cleaning sessions, customize cleaning preferences, and view detailed cleaning maps of your home. The s9+ is also compatible with voice assistants such as Seller Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to start and stop cleaning sessions with simple voice commands. This level of integration with other smart home devices makes the s9+ a seamless addition to any connected home. Furthermore, the iRobot Home app provides proactive suggestions based on your cleaning habits and home environment, such as recommending increased cleaning frequency during allergy season or suggesting specific cleaning zones based on past cleaning patterns.

The s9+’s Imprint Link Technology allows it to work in tandem with the Braava jet m6 robot mop. After the s9+ finishes vacuuming a room, it can automatically signal the Braava jet m6 to start mopping, providing a complete floor cleaning solution. This coordinated cleaning approach ensures that your floors are not only free of dirt and debris but also thoroughly mopped and sanitized. The Imprint Link Technology is a testament to iRobot’s commitment to creating a comprehensive ecosystem of cleaning robots that work together seamlessly to maintain a clean and healthy home environment. This integration is particularly appealing to those who value convenience and automation, as it eliminates the need to manually coordinate vacuuming and mopping tasks.

However, the s9+’s smart features are not without their limitations. Some users have reported occasional connectivity issues, particularly in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals. The iRobot Home app, while generally user-friendly, can sometimes be slow or unresponsive, especially when dealing with large or complex cleaning maps. The voice control integration, while convenient, can also be unreliable at times, particularly in noisy environments or when using complex voice commands. Despite these minor issues, the s9+’s smart features significantly enhance its overall usability and convenience, making it a valuable addition to any smart home. The Roomba s9+ and similar robot vacuums are designed to automate the floor cleaning process, allowing you to focus on other tasks while maintaining a clean and tidy home. For tech-savvy users who appreciate the convenience of smart home integration, the s9+’s intelligent features are a major selling point.

Maintenance and Long-Term Costs: What to Expect

Owning a Roomba s9+ involves ongoing maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. The Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal minimizes the frequency of emptying the robot’s dustbin, but the dirt disposal bags eventually need replacing. These bags typically last for several weeks, depending on the amount of dirt and debris collected. The high-efficiency filter also needs regular replacement, typically every few months, to maintain optimal filtration and air quality. The corner brush and multi-surface rubber brushes also require periodic cleaning or replacement to ensure effective cleaning performance. Irobot recommends replacing the multi-surface rubber brushes every 12 months and the corner brush every 3-6 months, depending on use. These replacement parts can add to the overall cost of ownership, so it’s important to factor them into your budget. The longevity of the Roomba s9 plus, like any electronic device, depends on usage, maintenance, and environmental factors. Regular cleaning and maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan. Investing in genuine iRobot replacement parts ensures compatibility and optimal performance.

The Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal is a convenient feature, but it also introduces an additional cost in the form of replacement dirt disposal bags. While the bags are relatively inexpensive, they do represent an ongoing expense that needs to be considered. The frequency of bag replacement depends on the amount of dirt and debris collected, which can vary depending on your home environment and cleaning habits. Users with pets or those who live in dusty areas may need to replace the bags more frequently. It’s also important to note that using non-genuine iRobot bags can potentially damage the Clean Base or affect its performance, so it’s recommended to stick with genuine replacement parts. The dirt disposal bags for the Roomba s9+ are designed to be easy to replace and dispose of, minimizing mess and inconvenience. The iRobot Home app provides reminders when it’s time to replace the bag, making it easy to stay on top of maintenance tasks.

Beyond the cost of replacement parts, it’s also worth considering the potential for repairs or replacements of the robot itself. While the Roomba s9+ is generally durable and reliable, electronic devices can sometimes fail or require repairs. Irobot offers a limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship, but it’s important to understand the terms and conditions of the warranty. Extended warranties or protection plans can provide additional peace of mind, but they also come at an additional cost. The overall cost of ownership of the Roomba s9+ can be significant, particularly when factoring in the cost of replacement parts and potential repairs. However, for many users, the convenience and time savings offered by the s9+ outweigh the costs. It’s important to weigh the benefits against the costs and determine if the s9+ is the right choice for your needs and budget.

The Verdict: Is the Roomba s9+ Worth the Investment?

The iRobot Roomba s9+ (9550) is undeniably a premium robot vacuum that offers exceptional cleaning performance, intelligent features, and unparalleled convenience. Its powerful suction, D-shape design, and advanced sensors enable it to effectively clean various floor types, including carpets, hardwood, and tile. The Imprint Smart Mapping technology allows for customized cleaning zones and keep-out zones, providing precise control over the robot’s cleaning behavior. The Wi-Fi connectivity and voice control integration make it easy to manage and monitor the s9+ from anywhere. The Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal minimizes the frequency of emptying the dustbin, providing a truly hands-free cleaning experience. However, the s9+ also comes with a high price tag and ongoing maintenance costs. Its battery life can be limited, and its noise level can be noticeable. The cost of replacement parts, such as dirt disposal bags and filters, can add to the overall cost of ownership. Whether the Roomba s9+ is worth the investment ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities.

If you prioritize cleaning performance, convenience, and smart home integration, and are willing to pay a premium for these features, the Roomba s9+ is an excellent choice. Its superior cleaning capabilities and intelligent features make it a valuable addition to any home. However, if you are on a tight budget or are less concerned about smart features, there are other robot vacuums on the market that offer comparable cleaning performance at a lower price point. Ultimately, the decision of whether to purchase the Roomba s9+ is a personal one that should be based on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Consider the long tail variations of roomba s9 and decide what fits you best.

FAQ

Is the Roomba s9+ good for pet hair?

Yes, the Roomba s9+ is exceptionally good at handling pet hair. It is one of the best robot vacuums on the market for pet owners. This is largely due to its powerful suction, which is significantly stronger than many other robot vacuums, including previous Roomba models. This enhanced suction allows the s9+ to effectively lift pet hair from various surfaces, including carpets, hardwood floors, and tile. The s9+ also features tangle-free multi-surface rubber brushes, which are specifically designed to prevent pet hair from getting tangled around the brushes, a common issue with traditional brush roll designs. These brushes work together to agitate and lift pet hair, dirt, and debris from deep within carpets and rugs, ensuring a thorough cleaning. The high-efficiency filter captures allergens, mold, dust mites, and pet dander.

How long does the Roomba s9+ battery last?

The battery life of the Roomba s9+ can vary depending on several factors, including the floor type being cleaned, the cleaning mode selected, and the age of the battery. Irobot claims that the s9+ can clean for up to 120 minutes on a single charge. However, in real-world testing, the battery life is often closer to 60-90 minutes, especially when cleaning on high-pile carpets or in areas with significant dirt and debris. The s9+ features a “recharge and resume” function, which means that it will automatically return to its Clean Base to recharge when the battery is low and then resume cleaning where it left off. This ensures that your entire home is cleaned, even if the battery doesn’t last long enough to complete the job in one go. Over time, the battery life of the Roomba s9+ will naturally decrease as the battery ages. Replacing the battery is a relatively straightforward process and can significantly improve the cleaning performance of the s9+.

How often do I need to empty the Clean Base?

The Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal is a key feature of the Roomba s9+, designed to minimize the frequency of emptying the robot’s dustbin. The Clean Base can hold up to 30 bins of dirt and debris, which means that you typically only need to empty it every few weeks or even months, depending on your home environment and cleaning habits. The iRobot Home app will notify you when the Clean Base is full and needs to be emptied. The dirt disposal bags used in the Clean Base are easy to replace and dispose of, minimizing mess and inconvenience. Users with pets or those who live in dusty areas may need to replace the bags more frequently.

Is the Roomba s9+ noisy?

The Roomba s9+ is known to be a relatively noisy robot vacuum compared to some other models on the market. While not excessively loud, it does produce a noticeable level of noise, particularly when operating at maximum suction. The noise level is primarily due to the powerful suction motor, which is necessary to effectively lift dirt, debris, and pet hair from various floor types. The noise level can also vary depending on the floor type being cleaned, with carpets generally producing more noise than hardwood or tile floors. The iRobot Home app allows you to adjust the cleaning mode, which can affect the noise level. Using a lower suction mode can reduce the noise, but it may also compromise the cleaning performance.

Does the Roomba s9+ work on dark floors?

The Roomba s9+ and other robot vacuums can sometimes have difficulty navigating on dark floors due to their cliff sensors. These sensors are designed to detect edges and prevent the robot from falling down stairs. The sensors work by emitting infrared light and measuring the amount of light that is reflected back. Dark surfaces absorb more light than light surfaces, which can sometimes cause the cliff sensors to misinterpret dark floors as edges. This can result in the robot stopping, changing direction, or avoiding certain areas of the room. However, the Roomba s9+ is equipped with advanced sensors and software that are designed to minimize this issue. The robot can often learn to adapt to dark floors over time, but it may still encounter occasional difficulties. In some cases, you may need to use tape or other materials to cover the cliff sensors in order to allow the robot to clean dark floors more effectively. However, this can also disable the cliff detection function, so it’s important to use caution when doing so.

Can I use the Roomba s9+ on area rugs?

Yes, the Roomba s9+ can be used on area rugs. In fact, the s9+’s powerful suction and multi-surface cleaning capabilities make it well-suited for cleaning area rugs of various types and thicknesses. The s9+ is designed to automatically adjust its cleaning head to adapt to different floor types, including area rugs. This ensures that the robot can effectively clean the rug without getting stuck or damaging the fibers. However, it’s important to note that the s9+ may have difficulty cleaning area rugs with very high pile or loose tassels. In these cases, the robot may get stuck or the tassels may get tangled around the brushes. You can use the keep-out zone feature in the iRobot Home app to prevent the s9+ from entering areas with problematic rugs. Before using the s9+ on an area rug for the first time, it’s a good idea to test it in a small, inconspicuous area to ensure that it doesn’t damage the rug.

How does the Roomba s9+ compare to other high-end robot vacuums?

The Roomba s9+ is often considered one of the top-performing high-end robot vacuums on the market, but it’s essential to compare it to other premium models to determine if it’s the right choice for your needs. Some of the key factors to consider when comparing high-end robot vacuums include cleaning performance, smart features, battery life, noise level, and price. The Roomba s9+ excels in cleaning performance, thanks to its powerful suction, D-shape design, and advanced sensors. The Neato D7, for example, also offers excellent cleaning performance and smart mapping capabilities. In terms of smart features, the Roomba s9+ offers a wide range of options, including Wi-Fi connectivity, voice control integration, Imprint Smart Mapping, and Imprint Link Technology. However, the Ecovacs Deebot Ozmo T8 AIVI offers both vacuuming and mopping capabilities. Ultimately, the best high-end robot vacuum for you will depend on your individual needs, priorities, and budget.