New Roomba Just Fixed the Most Annoying Problem with Robot Vacuums
(Image credit: iRobot)
If you’ve ever wanted a robot vacuum that doesn’t take up too much space but still makes cleaning easier, the new Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo might be exactly what you need. iRobot recently updated its entire lineup of robot vacuums, but this one stands out. It’s designed for smaller homes and apartments, making it a great choice if you don’t have room for a huge docking station.
Robot vacuums are great for small spaces, especially if your home is all on one floor. But many of the best models come with bulky docks that handle dust emptying, water refilling, and even mop washing. While convenient, these take up a lot of space. The other option is a simple charging dock, but that means you have to empty the dustbin often—sometimes daily. That’s frustrating, especially if you have pets that shed a lot.
This is where the Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo makes a big difference. Instead of relying on a huge dock, iRobot has built a dust-compacting system right inside the vacuum. This means it can hold more dirt and go much longer before you need to empty it.
Inside the Roomba 205, there’s a special paddle that moves left and right to press down the dust and debris, making more room inside the bin. iRobot says you can go up to 60 days without emptying it, though that depends on how much dust your home collects. Either way, it’s a huge improvement over other vacuums that need frequent emptying.
For pet owners, this is a game-changer. If you have a dog or cat that sheds, you know how quickly a vacuum’s bin can fill up. The Roomba 205’s dust-compacting feature helps keep it running longer without interruptions.
Another great feature is its compact charging dock. Unlike other vacuums that need a big station, this one has a small dock that easily fits in a corner. If you live in an apartment or have limited space, this is a perfect solution.
⋙ iRobot Roomba Combo 10 Max Robot Vacuum
Get low
One of the best changes in the Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo is that it can clean under low furniture. iRobot removed the traditional navigation puck from the top, making the vacuum slimmer so it can easily slide under sofas, beds, and cabinets. If you’ve ever had dust collecting under furniture because your vacuum couldn’t reach, this fix will make a big difference.
Despite removing the puck, the Roomba 205 still uses advanced LiDAR navigation. Usually, LiDAR vacuums have a raised sensor on top to map out the room. Instead, iRobot moved the sensor to the front of the vacuum, keeping the technology while making the vacuum smaller.
(Image credit: iRobot)
Some might wonder if this affects navigation. According to iRobot, it doesn’t. The company tested both the 205 and other Roomba models with traditional LiDAR, and they performed the same. If that’s true, it’s a huge win for those who want a smaller vacuum without sacrificing smart navigation.
With its space-saving design and advanced cleaning technology, the Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo is the perfect vacuum for anyone who wants a powerful cleaning tool without the extra bulk. Whether you live in an apartment, a small home, or just hate emptying the dustbin all the time, this vacuum makes life easier.
The Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo will be available on March 18 for $469 in the U.S. If you’ve been waiting for a robot vacuum that fits your home and lifestyle, this could be the one that finally gets it right.
