Roomba has become such a popular product that the iRobot product is now a household name. Even if you have never looked into robotic vacuums, you have heard of a Roomba. But if you are new to the world of robotic vacuums, it can be overwhelming to find the right one for you. This is why it is important to look at the models available and find the one that works with what you need. While it is an older model, the Roomba 650 is still a go-to for many homeowners and is worth your consideration.
Features of The Roomba 650
No matter what model of Roomba you go with, there are some key features that they must have. The 650 model was the first to introduce many of these features, and lead the way in the basic design of all Roomba’s going forward.
1. Scheduling Days and Times
While it does not have the Wi-Fi and app connection that newer models have incorporated, the Roomba 650 still allows you to schedule when it cleans. This is done with manual buttons on the top of the Roomba to decide what days and times you want it to run.
2. Intricate Navigation Prowess
The Roomba 650 comes with the basic navigation system of robot vacuums, known as collision-based navigation. This means that your Roomba moves in a straight path until it collides with something in its way. The Roomba will then either turn around or pivot to clean a new area. While it is simple, it is effective.
3. Anti-Tangle Brushes
For those who have pets or long hair (see the best vacuums for long human hair), you know how much trouble it can create for your standard vacuum. The Roomba 650 aimed to stop this problem by including two separate brushes into the design to prevent hair wrapping around and tangling. One brush is made of rubbery plastic, while the other is a standard brush. You will still need to clean it after every third or fourth use to prevent build-up, but it is much easier to remove than standard vacuums.
Thoughts on Roomba 650
The Roomba 650 was revolutionary in the world of robotic vacuums, and still holds its own with newer models. While it does lack many of the newer features, it has the basic design that all others built on, making it just as effective. If you want to save money and forgo higher end features, without sacrificing on cleaning, the 650 is still a fantastic option.
How Effective Is Its Cleaning?
The collision-based navigation system and anti-tangle brush work together to clean up all the dirt, hair and debris that come into its path. Very few spots are missed, only having issues when it is cornered by clutter. For open spaces, this works very well.
Navigation: Can It Navigate Well?
While the 650 holds its own compared to newer models in most respects, its navigation abilities are definitely the weakest feature. This is because newer models come with virtual walls, smart mapping and laser-based navigation. The Roomba 650 can still do a great job cleaning with the collision-based navigation, but you have less input in how it does the job.
Battery Life and Strength?
Most Roomba’s come with very similar batteries and average between one and two hours per charge. The 650 has a battery life of around an hour and a half and can last longer depending on the size of your home and how much space needs to be cleaned. For small apartments and homes this should be plenty of time before it needs to recharge. You can also replace the battery if it starts to degrade.
Roomba 650: Examining Pros and Cons
If you aren’t sure whether or not the Roomba 650 is right for you, you need to consider the strengths and weaknesses of the model.
Pros:
- Ease of Using and Scheduling: Even though you cannot schedule cleaning through your smart device, you can still choose what days and times you want your Roomba to clean. The manual design is much simpler, making it easy to set up as you want, without lots of menus and options that come with the app design.
- Self-Docking Function: The Roomba 650 was one of the first models to incorporate self-docking, eliminating the need to track down your Roomba when the battery died. Instead, the Roomba will return to its docking station after cleaning, or when the battery is running low.
- Strong Suction Power: The suction power of the 650 is strong enough to pick up any debris that came in its path, including dirt, dust, pet hair and larger things like cereal.
- Anti-Tangle Brushes: While they still need to be cleaned out every now and again, the anti-tangle brushes protect the overall design and keeps your vacuum from getting damaged. It also means that your Roomba can keep running without getting tangled and blocked.
- Affordable Price Point: One of the biggest highlights of an older model of the Roomba? Definitely the price. Newer models will cost you hundreds and hundreds of dollars. But with every year that has passed since the Roomba 650 first came out, the price tag goes down. You don’t have to resort to a second hand used Roomba. At such an affordable price point, you can have a quality Roomba working in your home. Even if you are on a budget.
Cons:
-
- Battery Degradation: While you can replace the batteries, they will inevitably start to degrade after about a year. This means you will see shorter battery life and will need a new one frequently if you want to use the 650 in a medium to large sized home.
- Lacking Navigation Skills: The collision-based navigation is effective for cleaning, but can lead to a clumsy appearance and lots of bumping into things. Without newer features like invisible walls, floor mapping, and laser guiding, it can be difficult for your Roomba to clean without missing tighter spots or running into your furniture.
- No Smart Features: Without the smart features or integration with smart devices, you have a much more primitive design. This means less customization and no ability to control it remotely.
Final Verdict
If you are looking for a quality Roomba without spending a lot of money, this is the perfect option. You get the thorough cleaning and basic features, without paying an arm and a leg for all the additions.
My Other Related Guides You Should Check Out:
Sharing all my interesting smart home finds in this small corner of the internet. If you want easy to read, honest opinions or reviews from your friendly neighbor, I'm the guy for you! Thanks for dropping by Brentmore Labs. - James 
