iRobot Roomba 560 hands-on

We've been fooling around with a new Roomba 560 of our very own and we can say with some certainty iRobot's really improved on its product. Unfortunately, that isn't saying a whole lot; while we've always loved the Roomba for what it is, we've never been too impressed with the job it does. Still, the built-in scheduler is just such a welcome addition, and the robot is much quieter and generally feels far better built than its predecessor. The fact that the internals are better sealed is also a huge bonus, since we've long found ourselves cleaning our Roomba's innards out nearly as much as its vacuum bin. Jury's still out on the Lighthouses -- it's a decent idea, definitely, but we'd really prefer if the robot actually started trying to learn where things (and its own position in real space) are instead of just using battery-operated stations to tell it which rooms it's already visited. But hey, baby robot steps, right? Photo gallery below.

Gallery: iRobot Roomba 560 hands-on

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[Gibb @ Aug 22nd 2007 4:03AM]

Nice pics....

Now come up with a proper review...
Does it 'suck' better then the old model,
My old imported Roomba SE broke yesterday (imported, I'm dutch).
Should I buy a Roomba Green V2.2 or import this new one?

Spill your guts.... ;)

[Xander @ Aug 22nd 2007 4:28AM]

Gibb, why import if iRobotstore.nl sells the robots in the Netherlands with excellent service? Also my Roomba SE just broke down two months ago, but as it was just within the two year warranty it was replaced by a brand new Roomba completely for free.
The only thing that I did import from the US was the Scheduler (was in New York anyway and on the schedular only the risk of having no warranty is not too big).

Downside of course is that it will probably take a while for them to get stock of the 560, but if they do I probably will be immediately buying.

I am still very happy with my Roomba. Maybe it is not perfect, but at least it is doing a better job in vacuming then myselves ;-) So I am definitely interested in an even better Roomba.

[Gibb @ Aug 22nd 2007 4:40AM]

I imported the first one, because it was way cheaper ;)

The second one I will only import if it will take a long time for the Roomba 500 series to come available in the Netherlands. I already mailed IRobot asking about the availability in the Netherlands. Keeping my tumbs crossed !!!!

[John D @ Aug 22nd 2007 4:13AM]

OK - isn't this the model you need to review? http://trilobite.electrolux.co.uk/

I believe that this learns where it is etc. OK - the price tag (£800/$1600) ain't cheap but it looks a darn sight cooler.

[Gibb @ Aug 22nd 2007 4:21AM]

It's HUGE !!!!
It will scare my German Shepard !!

Nah isn't worth the money, as the current version Roomba SE did a good job, as you set it to run every day using the shedular.

[EOppie @ Aug 22nd 2007 7:32AM]

I want to know more about the 570

[Maestro @ Aug 22nd 2007 8:52AM]

I don't know about your Roomba, but mine works great. We have hardwood floors and our dog sheds all over the place. We run this (to the dog's displeasure) when we go to work and it really helps keep the pet hair at a minimum. Only complaint I have is the loud noise and if this model is much quieter, I'm in. (It is, however, nearly silent on the carpet).

[AlexP @ Aug 22nd 2007 9:27AM]

How much will it retail for?

[artifex @ Aug 22nd 2007 9:36AM]

Oh, that's sexy. I'd better cover my old one's sensors or he'll start banging my chair leg, wanting it.

[Rob @ Aug 22nd 2007 12:26PM]

Common guys,.. Where's the actual review?

[John Blake @ Aug 22nd 2007 12:30PM]

They will sell for between $299 and $399.

You can find lot's more information about the new models on the Roomba Message Board:

http://www.roombareview.com/chat

[ceevee @ Aug 22nd 2007 1:30PM]

I think I might get one now.