iRobot Roomba j7+

The iRobot Roomba j7+ is a solid piece of kit in the robot vacuum space, scoring a respectable 92/100. For £799, you’re getting a machine that really does its job well, but there are a few things to weigh up before diving in.

First off, the self-emptying feature is a game changer. The base will take care of emptying the bin for you, which is a brilliant time-saver, especially if you’ve got pets or a busy household. The 400 ml bin capacity isn’t massive, but it’s adequate given the self-emptying capability. The battery life sits at about 75 minutes, which is decent but might leave you wanting if you have a larger home.

The mapping technology, powered by iAdapt 3.0, is impressive. It navigates with a level of precision that helps avoid obstacles, thanks to the PrecisionVision Navigation. It’s particularly good at identifying and sidestepping things like cables or pet messes, which is a major plus.

On the downside, while it’s quite efficient at cleaning, it may miss a few spots if the layout of your home is complicated. Also, the £799 price tag feels a bit steep for what you’re getting, especially when there are other robot vacuums on the market that offer similar features for less.

In summary, the Roomba j7+ shines with its self-emptying base and intelligent navigation, making it a great option if you can afford it. Just be aware that you might not get a perfect clean every time, and you could find cheaper alternatives that do the job well enough. If you're looking for convenience and don't mind splurging a bit, it’s definitely worth considering.