iRobot has unveiled a refreshed Roomba series for 2025 that brings significant changes to its long-established lineup. The new models—from the budget-friendly 105 series to the premium 505 series—introduce several noteworthy updates that could mark a turning point for the company. This guide examines the core changes and what you might expect in real-world usage.
The New Roomba Lineup at a Glance
New Roombas, New Names
The refreshed lineup models are numbered 105, 205, 405, and 505, with the 105 positioned as the entry option and the 505 offering a full suite of advanced features. Other name meanings to be aware of:
- “Vac” models mean vacuuming only – best for users with mostly carpeted homes – while “Combo” models incorporate both vacuuming and mopping.
- The “DustCompactor” on the 205 models indicates a compacting feature on the robot’s onboard dustbin to increase usable space in the dustbin for longer cleaning.
- “Autowash” in the 405 and 505 refers to the addition of multifunctional docks that offer mop pad maintenance.
Shared Technologies and Features
LiDAR Navigation
The adoption of Lidar systems across the lineup is expected to greatly improve mapping accuracy and efficiency. While the 105, 405, and 505 feature a standard top-mounted spinning Lidar, the 205 series uses an internal half Lidar. This difference allows the 205 to maintain a slimmer profile, making it better suited for cleaning under low-clearance furniture.
Enhanced Suction Power
A major technical improvement is the dramatic increase in suction power across the whole lineup. iRobot does not list their robots’ suction power in Pascals, so we don’t have a number for the new suction rates. The new models are engineered to deliver 70x the suction of the older 600 series, a substantial enhancement from the J series, which only advertised a 10x increase over the 600 series.
Single Roller Brush
iRobot’s traditional dual roller setup has been replaced with a single roller paired with a fixed side brush. This new single brush appears in every model in the new lineup, although the entry-level robots have bristles on the brush while higher-level models have rubber brushes. The bristles are preferred for models that are vacuum only, as these agitate the carpets to improve suction, but they have a tendency to worsen hair wrap, so they are not preferred for vacuum/mop combos, which are better for hard floors.
Modern Design
iRobot has traded the older Roomba body with a sleek new design that is meant to have a more modern look. All Roomba models in the new lineup can be purchased in either white or black to better suit your home’s style.
Roomba 105 Models – Roomba Entry Level
Roomba 105 Models Overview
Roomba’s 105 series come in 4 variations. Buyers can choose between a vacuum-only robot (the 105 Vac) which is preferred by users with mostly carpeted homes, and a vacuum/mop combination robot (the 105 Combo) for those with hard floors.
| Roomba 105 Vac | Roomba 105 Vac + AutoEmpty Dock | Roomba 105 Combo | Roomba 105 Combo + AutoEmpty Dock |
| Vacuum Only, no dock | Vacuum only, dustbin-emptying dock | Vacuum/mop combo, no dock | Vacuum/mop combo, dustbin-emptying dock |
| See at Amazon | See at Amazon | See at Amazon | See at Amazon |
All variations of the 105 series have the same advanced suction, the new single main brush with side brush, and LiDAR navigation as the higher end models in the lineup, which is impressive at this price range.
The 105 series is designed for consumers looking for robust performance on a tight budget. The fact that the entry-level 105 series does not hold back on Roomba’s new navigation improvements and suction enhancements shared with the more expensive models in the lineup is a great benefit to more budget-conscious consumers.
Roomba 105 Features
Navigation/Obstacle Avoidance
Positioned as an entry-level model, Roomba’s 105 series incorporates Lidar navigation—a feature rarely seen at this pricing. There is no designated obstacle avoidance in the 105 series.
Docking
Both Roomba 105 robots, the 105 Vac and the 105 Combo, can be purchased alone or with an optional dock that automatically empties the dustbin.
Mopping
The combo version of the 105 robot uses a single, large mop-pad that requires manual maintenance. This is more hands-on than the robots that come with mop maintenance in the dock, which we will see first in the 405 models (see below). The 105 uses something called “SmartScub” which they advertise as doubling the effectiveness of the mop-pad, and it automates the amount of mopping solution that is released into the pad, keeping it wet during mopping.
The mop pad on the 105 Combo does not lift over carpet, so bear that in mind as the combo robot will have to do separate runs for vacuuming and mopping.
Brushes
The Roomba 105 models have a single main roller brush with bristles and a fixed side brush.
Roomba 205 Models – Roomba Mid-Range
Roomba 205 Models Overview
The Roomba 205 DustCompactor series comes in two variations: a vacuum-only model and a vacuum/mop combo model, which are denoted by the names 205 DustCompactor Vac (See at Amazon) and 205 DustCompactor Combo. The standout feature for 205 models is the DustCompactor design that gives them their name: a compressing system in the robot’s on-board dustbin that reduces how frequently their bins need to be emptied.
Roomba 205 Features
Navigation/Obstacle Avoidance
Like the rest of the lineup, Roomba’s 205 series incorporates LiDAR navigation, but this is unique in the 205 models because they do not have the top-mounted LiDAR found in the other members of the lineup. Instead, the LiDAR is hidden in the robot’s body, which lowers the robot’s profile for low clearance furniture. There is not any listed obstacle avoidance in the 205 series.
Docking
The 205 DustCompactor Combo has no dock, instead relying on the compacting function of the robot’s onboard dustbin to reduce maintenance needs. iRobot claims the 205 Combo can go as long as 60 days without emptying. The 205 DustCompactor Vac comes with an auto-empty dustbin.
Mopping
The Combo version of the 205 DustCompactor robot uses a single, large mop-pad that requires manual maintenance. This is more hands-on than the robots that come with mop maintenance in the dock, which we will see first in the 405 models (see below). The 205 uses something called “SmartScub” which they advertise as doubling the effectiveness of the mop-pad, and it automates the amount of mopping solution that is released into the pad, keeping it wet during mopping.
As with the models in the 105 series, the mop pad on the 205 Combo does not lift over carpet, so bear that in mind as the combo robot will have to do separate runs for vacuuming and mopping. It does have carpet detection, however, which prevents it from accidentally mopping your carpet.
Brushes
The Roomba 205 DustCompactor Vac has a single main roller brush with bristles for better function on carpet and a fixed side brush. The Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo, however, uses a rubber brush for better function on hard floors or carpet, also with a fixed side brush.
Roomba Plus 405 Combo Model with AutoWash – Roomba Mid-Premium
Roomba Plus 405 Combo Overview
The Roomba Plus 405 Combo (See at Amazon) is where we first begin to see significant changes in mopping features and automation, which are again enhanced in the 505 Combo. The single mop pad is replaced with spinning pads and they have more advanced docking features. With a blend of advanced features at a somewhat lower price than the more premium 505 model, the 405 model offers many benefits for users looking for high-end performance without the full premium cost.
The Roomba 405 portion of the lineup only has one model, as does the Roomba 505.
Roomba Plus 405 Combo Features
Navigation/Obstacle Avoidance
Navigation is handled by top-mounted LiDAR, and like the other models in the series there is no designated obstacle avoidance technology in the Plus 405 Combo.
Docking
The dock that accompanies Roomba’s 405 model includes automating mop-head cleaning and drying, eliminating the need to remove and clean the pad with each use, greatly increasing the automation of the robot. It also empties the dustbin, which doesn’t need to be replaced for up to 75 days, and the dock runs a Self-Cleaning Cycle to prevent buildup of grime and debris in the dock.
See the Press Release at iRobot: iRobot Introduces Suite of Innovative ROOMBA® Floor Cleaning Robots
Mopping
The Plus 405 Combo uses dual spinning mop heads that lift when the robot senses carpets, which allows the robot to vacuum and mop in a single pass.
Brushes
The Plus 405 Combo includes the single main brush that has replaced the double-brush of the older models of Roomba robots, but it switches to a rubber brush over a bristled brush, and as with the other members of the lineup, it includes a fixed side-brush for more effective sweeping.
Roomba Plus 505 Combo with AutoWash – Roomba Premium Model
Roomba Plus 505 Combo Overview
As the highest-priced model as of this writing, the Roomba Plus 505 Combo is positioned as the robot for those seeking the latest in Roomba technology and utility in a single unit. It builds on some features we saw in the 405 Combo, which makes it the most expensive model of these new releases, although it is priced competitively. The 505 Combo, like the 405, currently only has one model in its class.
Roomba Plus 505 Combo Features
Navigation/Obstacle Avoidance
The 505 Combo model includes top-mounted LiDAR, here called ClearView Pro to indicate enhanced performance. The 505 is also advertised as having an enhanced ability to recognize and avoid stairs. It is the only model in the new Roomba lineup with designated obstacle avoidance technology with camera-based AI obstacle recognition, which they call PrecisionVision.
Docking
The Roomba Plus 505 Combo has the most feature-rich dock of the new lineup. Like the 405, it empties the dustbin, cleans and dries the mopheads, and runs self-cleaning cycles to keep the dock from building up dirt. The 505 Combo, unlike the 405, also includes heat drying for the mop-pads, to keep the pads fresher.
Mopping
The 505 Combo uses the same dual spinning mop heads we saw in the lower-level 405 Combo, but with the added benefit of an extending mophead to reach into corners, which they call PerfectEdge mopping. These mop heads also lift over carpet so that the robot does not have to vacuum and mop in separate runs.
Brushes
Like the 405 Combo, the 505 Combo includes a single rubber main brush and a fixed side brush for more thorough sweeping.
New Roomba Models at a Glance
Roomba 205 DustCompactor Combo | Roomba Plus 505 Combo + AutoWash Dock | ||||||
| Same Robot as the Roomba 105 Vac, but includes an auto-empty dustbin in a dock |
| Same Robot as the Roomba 105 Combo, but includes an auto-empty dustbin in a dock |
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Buyer Considerations and Recommendations
Assessing Your Cleaning Needs:
Consumers should consider whether a vacuum-only or a vacuum-plus-mop model better suits their home environment. Factors such as floor type and the presence of pets are crucial when evaluating performance expectations.
Budget and Value:
Weighing the cost against the enhanced features—like the addition of Lidar navigation and the dramatic increase in suction—is essential. These improvements might justify the investment for many users, particularly as they reflect a significant leap from previous models.
Future Performance and Reviews:
As real-world performance insights become available, they will provide further guidance on the cleaning efficiency and reliability of these models. We are excited to purchase these new Roomba models and try them out for ourselves with our tests.
The 2025 Roomba lineup represents a notable evolution in iRobot’s approach to robotic cleaning. With the integration of Lidar navigation, a shift to a single roller design, a sleek modern look, and a dramatic increase in suction power, these changes may well signal a turning point in iRobot’s position in the robot vacuum industry.
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FAQ: iRobot’s New 2025 Roomba Lineup
What are the main differences between the Roomba 105, 205, 405, and 505 models?
The 105 is an entry-level model with strong suction and basic features. The 205 adds a DustCompactor and a slimmer profile for low furniture. The 405 introduces spinning mop pads and auto-cleaning docks, while the 505 builds on that with AI obstacle avoidance, edge mopping, and heat drying—making it the most advanced option.
Does the new 2025 Roomba lineup include LiDAR navigation?
Yes, all models in the 2025 lineup use LiDAR for improved mapping and navigation. However, the 205 series uniquely integrates an internal “half-LiDAR” for a slimmer body design.
What is the DustCompactor feature on the Roomba 205?
The DustCompactor compresses debris in the robot’s onboard dustbin, extending the time between manual emptying. iRobot claims it can go up to 60 days without being emptied, depending on use.
Which Roomba 2025 model is best for homes with both carpet and hard floors?
The Combo versions of the 405 and 505 models are ideal for mixed surfaces. They feature spinning mop heads that lift automatically on carpet, allowing for seamless vacuuming and mopping in one run.
What is the benefit of the new single roller brush design?
iRobot replaced the dual brush setup with a single roller. Bristled rollers (in 105 and 205 Vac) are better for carpet agitation, while rubber rollers (in Combo models and all higher-end robots) are preferred for reducing hair tangles and improving hard floor performance.
Is obstacle avoidance included in all 2025 Roomba models?
No. Only the Roomba Plus 505 Combo includes dedicated obstacle avoidance using a camera-based system called PrecisionVision. The other models rely solely on LiDAR for navigation.
How do the mopping systems differ across the Roomba 2025 lineup?
The 105 and 205 Combo models use a single fixed mop pad that requires manual maintenance. The 405 and 505 upgrade to dual spinning mop heads, dock auto-cleaning, and in the 505’s case, hot air drying and edge-reaching mop extensions.
Do any 2025 Roomba models come with self-emptying docks?
Yes. Most models have an optional AutoEmpty Dock, and the 405 and 505 come standard with advanced docking stations that also clean and dry the mop heads.
Which Roomba 2025 model offers the best value for budget-conscious buyers?
The Roomba 105 series offers premium features like LiDAR and high suction at a lower price point, making it a standout choice for budget shoppers seeking strong performance.
How powerful is the suction in the new Roomba models compared to older ones?
All 2025 models are advertised to have 70x the suction of the Roomba 600 series, a huge leap from the 10x increase seen in previous J series models.
