My short answer: the Roomba s9+ is still a compelling choice if your priority is vacuuming—particularly carpets, rugs, pet hair, edges, and corners. It is not, however, an automatic 2026 recommendation. iRobot’s dedicated product page currently says the s9+ is unavailable, while other catalog pages still list the robot and its accessories. Buy one only from a reputable seller, at a meaningful discount, with clear warranty and return protection.
The original recommendation concerned the Roomba s9+, not the vacuum-only s9. The “plus” includes iRobot’s Clean Base Automatic Dirt Disposal system, which is a major part of the convenience.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Roomba s9+ at a glance
| Best for | Not best for |
|---|---|
| Carpets, rugs, pet hair, edges, corners, and automatic emptying | Vacuuming plus mopping, very low furniture, or cluttered floors |
| Buyers who find an authentic unit at a strong price | Buyers paying current flagship pricing for an older platform |
The s9+ remains one of iRobot’s most vacuum-focused designs. Its D-shaped body is intended to clean closer to walls and into corners than a conventional round robot, while its wide dual rubber rollers and strong cleaning system make it especially appealing for carpeted homes and pet owners.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchWindows Errors? Fix Them Before They Spread
Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallBut “still my favorite” does not mean “best for everyone.” Newer Roomba models add mopping, automatic mop-pad washing and drying, newer docks, and more current obstacle-avoidance systems. The right choice depends on whether you want the best fit for a specific cleaning job or the most automated all-in-one appliance.
#1 Best Overall
- DEVOURS DIRT WITH 70X MORE POWER-LIFTING SUCTION*. 3-Stage Cleaning includes 70X more power-lifting suction*, a Multi-Surface brush, and Edge-Sweeping brush to devour dirt and dust bunnies and leave floors barefoot clean. *As compared to Roomba 600 series robots
- SUPER-SMART MAPPING AND NAVIGATION. ClearView LiDAR quickly maps your home to maximize coverage and provide a precise clean while steering smoothly around obstacles and specialized sensors prevent falling down stairs.
- FULLY CUSTOM AND TARGETED CLEANING. Schedule and target rooms based on your daily routine and adjust the number of cleaning passes and levels of suction power.
- EASY-TO-USE ROOMBA HOME APP. Simply tap to set a custom clean, get time estimates, check on the filter life, or create keep-out zones to avoid specific areas.
- EXTRA DIRT- SPOT CLEANING IS ON IT. Easily target the places where your floors need extra attention, with spot cleaning, your robot repeatedly cleans in one area for up to 5 minutes.
Why the s9+ still stands out
A shape designed for edges and corners
The s9+ uses a D-shaped, maximized-edge design rather than the familiar circular body. A corner brush sweeps debris from edges into the cleaning path, giving the robot a practical advantage in rooms where dust and pet hair collect along baseboards.
That geometry is different from modern object avoidance. The shape helps the robot reach edges; it does not guarantee that it will recognize every cable, toy, sock, or pet accident before encountering it.
Wide rubber rollers for carpets and hair
iRobot says the s9’s dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes are 40% larger than those on the comparison model used in its marketing claim. The rollers are designed to maintain contact with different floor surfaces while reducing hair tangles compared with traditional bristles.
That makes the s9+ a logical vacuum-first option for homes with rugs, carpet, and shedding pets. It is still not maintenance-free: long hair can wrap around the rollers, corner brush, and drive wheels, and the filter and bin still need regular attention.
Strong cleaning claims, with an important qualification
iRobot markets the s9 as delivering 100% more power-lifting suction than its stated comparison model. BGR also reported iRobot’s claim that it provides 40 times the power of entry-level 600-series models. Those are manufacturer comparison claims—not independent, standardized measurements of suction, airflow, noise, battery life, or carpet pickup.
Rank #2
- UP TO 75 DAYS HANDS-FREE CLEANING. Dirt and dust stay gone because it empties into the AutoEmpty dock with a bag that traps 99% of allergens as small as 0.7 microns- That means no mess or cloud of dust when you empty it- Just drop the used bag into the trash and put a new one in the base.
- DEVOURS DIRT WITH 70X MORE POWER-LIFTING SUCTION. 3-Stage Cleaning includes 70X more power-lifting suction*, a Multi-Surface brush, and Edge-Sweeping brush to devour dirt and dust bunnies and leave floors barefoot clean *As compared to Roomba 600 series robots
- SUPER-SMART MAPPING AND NAVIGATION. ClearView LiDAR quickly maps your home to maximize coverage and provide a precise clean while steering smoothly around obstacles and specialized sensors prevent falling down stairs.
- FULLY CUSTOM & TARGETED CLEANING. Schedule and target rooms based on your daily routine and adjust the number of cleaning passes and levels of suction power.
- EASY-TO-USE ROOMBA HOME APP. Simply tap to set a custom clean, get time estimates, check on the filter life, or create keep-out zones to avoid specific areas.
They explain why the s9+ has a reputation as a particularly aggressive vacuum, but they should not be read as proof that it wins every modern head-to-head test.
Dirt Detect, mapping, and automatic emptying
The robot’s Dirt Detect system can identify dirtier areas and clean them more thoroughly, while its mapping features support room-based cleaning. The Clean Base automatically empties the robot and is rated to hold up to 60 days of debris, depending on household conditions and how much dirt, hair, and other material the robot collects. See iRobot’s s9+ specifications for the manufacturer’s stated features and dimensions.
Why newer Roombas do not automatically replace it
Newer is not synonymous with better for every household. Current Roomba families focus heavily on combination cleaning and dock automation. That is a major benefit if you want one machine to vacuum, mop, refill its water, and wash or dry its mop pad.
The s9+ takes a narrower approach: it is a premium robot vacuum with automatic dirt disposal. If you already mop manually, have mostly carpet, or care more about pet-hair pickup than hard-floor washing, paying extra for unused mop hardware may not improve your daily cleaning routine.
s9+ versus newer iRobot models
Roomba s9+ versus Combo j9+
The s9+ has the simpler vacuum-only workflow, an edge-focused body, and a stronger case for buyers prioritizing carpets, rugs, and pet hair. The Combo j9+ adds vacuuming and mopping, along with newer all-in-one convenience on applicable configurations.
Rank #3
- UP TO 75 DAYS HANDS-FREE CLEANING. Dirt and dust stay gone because it empties into the AutoEmpty dock with a bag that traps 99% of allergens as small as 0.7 microns. That means no mess or cloud of dust when you empty it. Just drop the used bag into the trash and put a new one in the base.
- DEVOURS DIRT WITH 70X MORE POWER-LIFTING SUCTION. Find, reach and eliminate messes with the combined power of 70X more suction*, multi-surface brush, 20% better edge and corner cleaning with an edge-sweeping brush, to devour dirt and dust bunnies, plus a microfiber mop pad to leave floors shiny.
- SUPER-SMART MAPPING AND NAVIGATION. ClearView LiDAR quickly maps your home to maximize coverage and provide a precise clean while steering smoothly around obstacles and specialized sensors prevent falling down stairs.
- RUGS STAY DRY WHILE MOPPING. Unlike other cleaning robots, the Roomba 105 Combo Robot automatically detects and avoids carpets while mopping so your rugs stay dry – no complex programming required.
- FULLY CUSTOM CLEANING. Choose from settings including vac only, mop only, or combo vac-mop. Schedule and target rooms based on your daily routine and adjust the number of cleaning passes, levels of suction power, and amount of mopping solution pumped onto the microfiber mopping pad.
Choose the s9+ only when its vacuuming strengths matter more to you than mopping and when it is substantially cheaper. A 2024 review’s preference for the s9+ over the Combo j9+—including its pet-hair observations—was that reviewer’s experience, not a current independent ranking.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minutes9+ versus the current Max and Plus ranges
For a current vacuum-only alternative, iRobot lists the Roomba Max 715 Vac Robot + AutoEmpty Dock at $699.99. For buyers who want a combination robot, the catalog has included models such as the Roomba Plus 405 Combo at $799.99, the Roomba Plus 505 Combo at a displayed promotional price of $499.99 on one catalog page, and the Roomba Max 775 Combo at $999.99.
iRobot also lists the lower-cost Roomba 105 Vac Robot + AutoEmpty Dock at $279.99. These prices were observed on iRobot’s U.S. site on August 16, 2026; promotional labels and availability can change, and the exact configuration should be confirmed at checkout. Browse iRobot’s current U.S. product catalog before making a comparison.
The Max 715 is the most direct current comparison for someone who wants vacuuming without mopping. However, do not assume it cleans edges exactly like the D-shaped s9+ without a direct test. The Plus and Max Combo models make more sense when mopping and dock automation are central requirements. The 105 is cheaper, but it is not a like-for-like replacement for the s9+’s premium design and carpet-focused positioning.
The biggest 2026 problem: availability
iRobot’s dedicated s9+ page currently says “This product is not available.” At the same time, other iRobot catalog and search pages continue to display the model and list s9+ replacement supplies. As of August 16, 2026, the most accurate description is that availability is inconsistent on iRobot’s U.S. site.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Rank #4
- DITCH THE DOCK. Roomba’s built-in DustCompactor continuously crushes debris within the robot, so you can clean for up to 60 days with no bulky dock and no extra effort of daily emptying.
- DESIGNED FOR REAL HOMES. No bulky base. No extra footprint. Onboard dust compacting means powerful, hands-free cleaning in a sleek, space-saving design that fits beautifully anywhere.
- TRULY BAGLESS + DOCKLESS. Debris is packed inside the robot—no bags, no dock. Just months of effortless cleaning without any effort from you.
- DEVOURS DIRT WITH 70X MORE POWER-LIFTING SUCTION. 3-Stage Cleaning includes 70X more power-lifting suction*, a Multi-Surface brush, and Edge-Sweeping brush to devour dirt and dust bunnies and leave floors barefoot clean. *As compared to Roomba 600 series robots
- SUPER-SMART MAPPING AND NAVIGATION. ClearView LiDAR sleekly hidden inside the robot quickly maps your home, avoids obstacles and cleans in neat rows, even in the dark.
That does not prove the product has been officially discontinued, but it does make buying one more complicated. The $549.99 price promoted in the original August 1, 2024 article was a historical sale and must not be treated as a current price.
iRobot’s company update says current products will continue to receive customer service, software updates where applicable, and warranty coverage. That does not mean the s9+ is currently sold through normal channels or that every replacement part will remain easy to find. Support also depends on the purchase region, seller, serial number, and warranty terms. Read iRobot’s company update, then verify the specific unit before paying.
Who should buy the s9+?
The s9+ makes the most sense when:
- Carpet and rugs are more important than mopping.
- Pet hair is a recurring problem.
- Cleaning along walls and into corners matters.
- You want automatic emptying but not necessarily an all-in-one mop dock.
- You can buy a new, authorized unit or a reputable refurbished unit at a meaningful discount.
- You are comfortable owning an older product platform.
Its relatively tall robot body—12.25 inches wide and 3.5 inches high—can prevent it from reaching under some sofas, beds, and cabinets. Measure your clearance rather than assuming a robot will fit. The D-shaped body can also be less forgiving around narrow furniture gaps, chair legs, thresholds, cables, and clutter.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Who should skip it?
Choose a newer Combo or Max model instead if you want one machine to vacuum and mop, wash and dry mop pads, refill water, or provide newer obstacle-avoidance features. A home filled with toys, cords, socks, or other small objects may benefit more from modern object recognition than from the s9+’s vacuuming design.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Skip the s9+ if its price approaches that of a newer premium Roomba, if the seller cannot provide meaningful warranty and return coverage, or if long-term access to model-specific bags, filters, and brushes is a major concern.
Best Value
- DEVOURS DIRT WITH 70X MORE POWER-LIFTING SUCTION*. 4-Stage Cleaning includes 70X more power-lifting suction*, a Multi-Surface brush, and Edge-Sweeping brush to devour dirt and dust bunnies, plus a microfiber mop pad to leave floors shiny and clean *As compared to Roomba 600 series robots
- SUPER-SMART MAPPING AND NAVIGATION. ClearView LiDAR quickly maps your home, avoids obstacles and cleans in neat rows, even in the dark.
- RUGS STAY DRY WHILE MOPPING. Unlike other cleaning robots, the Roomba 105 Combo Robot automatically detects and avoids carpets while mopping so your rugs stay dry – no complex programming required.
- FULLY CUSTOM & TARGETED CLEANING. Choose from settings including vac only, mop only, or combo vac-mop, Schedule and target rooms based on your daily routine and adjust the number of cleaning passes, levels of suction power, and amount of mopping solution pumped onto the microfiber mopping pad.
- EASY-TO-USE ROOMBA HOME APP. Simply tap to set a custom clean, get time estimates, check on the filter life, or create keep-out zones to avoid specific areas.
Buying a used or refurbished s9+
Because official availability is unclear, you may encounter old stock, refurbished units, and marketplace listings. Before buying, confirm:
- The exact model: An s9 does not automatically include the Clean Base. An s9+ listing should include the correct dock.
- Battery condition: Ask how long the robot runs and whether the battery has been replaced.
- Dock operation: Verify that the Clean Base empties the bin, seals correctly, and is not excessively noisy or clogged.
- Consumables: Inspect the rollers, corner brush, filter, bin, and bag pathway.
- App pairing: Confirm that the robot can connect, map the home, and complete a cleaning cycle.
- Protection: Require a genuine return period and written warranty terms. An imported or unknown-market unit may not receive the same support as a regionally purchased product.
Do not accept “works perfectly” as a substitute for a return policy. A used unit may have a degraded battery, worn rollers, mapping problems, missing dock components, or a contaminated and noisy base.
Ownership and maintenance
Automatic emptying reduces daily involvement, but it does not eliminate maintenance. Replace the Clean Base bag when full, inspect the rubber rollers for wrapped hair, clear the corner brush and drive wheels, replace filters and brushes as needed, and keep the navigation, cliff, and camera or sensor areas clean. Maintain a clear area around the dock so the robot can return and align properly.
iRobot’s U.S. store has listed an s9+ refill kit at $105.98, with a displayed 15% accessories promotion. That is a catalog price observed on the site, not a guarantee of long-term stock or a permanent price. Check the official accessories page for compatibility and kit contents before buying the robot.
My final recommendation
The Roomba s9+ remains my favorite iRobot design for a specific job: serious vacuuming in a home with carpets, rugs, edges, corners, or pet hair. Its D-shaped body, wide rubber rollers, Dirt Detect system, and automatic dirt disposal still form a convincing package.
In 2026, though, it is a conditional recommendation rather than an uncomplicated one. Buy it if you can find a legitimate unit at a clearly favorable price, with warranty and return protection, and you genuinely prefer vacuum performance over mopping. Choose a newer Roomba if you want an all-in-one vacuum-and-mop system or the latest dock and obstacle-avoidance features. If availability, condition, price, or replacement supplies are uncertain, walk away.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
