Went through another vacuum (shark IQ auto empty) after the roborock return, and now we're on a third, back to a mid-low end roomba (e5).
What ive determined is that suction and technical ratings dont mean shit compared to the fundamental features that roomba has patented. The shark IQ is 23 CFM, the highest on the market, and after running it 3 times (bin nearly empty on last time), and then running the roomba, the roomba picked up two full bins of additional stuff.
The stuff roomba has patented that seems to make all the difference
1) dual rubber brush rollers. I think why this is so important is that they create a suction "zone" thats tiny, and therefore way more powerful even with less overall suction. The front roller is slightly lower than the back roller, and it creates a seal which the debris is behind. They also get zero hair buildup, although the shark was pretty good about that too despite being brushed.
2) Automatic height adjustment of wheels. The roomba essentially has a mechanical suspension that raises the wheels really high to clear obstacles, or drops them all the way to the floor to really put the brushes and body of the vacuum in low profile mode. This eliminates it getting stuck anywhere, and also increases the cleaning profile by bringing it down really low
3) Not patented, but just manufacturing oriented. Roombas are still built like tanks. Both the roborock and shark were plastic toys by comparison.
Roomba navigation leaves a lot to be desired, but navigation matters very little if it doesnt actually clean. A roomba with lidar would be the king of things. But it would probably cost 1500 bucks too. Shits expensive
IM SETTING IT UP THIS WAY CAUSE THATS THE WAY ITS SUPPOSED TO BE
