Compare Products, Services & More

Cleaning equipment: Karcher FC 7 Cordless Hard Floor Cleaner vs. iRobot Roomba j9+ Robot Vacuum

Quick Verdict

The Karcher FC 7 Cordless Hard Floor Cleaner is ideal for those who prefer manual control and targeted hard floor cleaning with a dedicated washing system. The iRobot Roomba j9+ Robot Vacuum is better suited for users seeking autonomous cleaning, smart features, and the ability to clean both hard floors and carpets with obstacle avoidance.

Key features – Side-by-Side

AttributeKarcher FC 7 Cordless Hard Floor CleaneriRobot Roomba j9+ Robot Vacuum
Cordless vs. Robot VacuumCordless electric mop (manual operation)Robot Vacuum
Floor Types CompatibilityParquet, laminate, stone, ceramic tiles, PVC, and vinyl (water-resistant and sealed)Hard floors and carpets
Cleaning SystemTwo-tank system (fresh and dirty water). Rollers continuously wetted from the fresh water tank.3-stage cleaning system with dual multi-surface rubber brushes, edge-sweeping brush, and Power-Lifting Suction
Cleaning Solution SystemTwo-tank system (fresh and dirty water). Rollers continuously wetted from the fresh water tank.Water or cleaning solution with the Combo model
Runtime per ChargeApproximately 45 minutes (135-175 m )Up to 75 minutes (typically 60-75 minutes)
Charging TimeAbout 4 hoursLonger than the j7
Weight4.3 kg (9.5 lbs) without accessories, 8.2 kg (19.4 lbs) with packaging4.07 kg (8.97 lbs for the robot, 21.9 lbs for the Clean Base)
Self-Cleaning FeaturesSelf-cleaning mode for rollers and hoses. Automatic rinsing in the cleaning station.Empties dustbin into Clean Base (holds up to 60 days of debris). Clean Base Auto-Fill Dock (Combo model) refills liquid for up to 30 days.
Smart Features & App IntegrationNo smart features or app integrationiRobot OS app (Dirt Detective, Clean Zones, Keep Out Zones, object recognition). Customizable routines, enhanced maps, smart home integrations.
Edge Cleaning CapabilityCleans right up to the edgesCleans along edges, edge-sweeping brush
Dustbin/Water Tank CapacityFresh water tank: 400 ml (13.53 oz), Dirty water tank: 200 ml (6.76 oz)313 ml (robot), 2.4L dirtbag (Clean Base)
Noise Level59 dB(A)Around 65 decibels
Maintenance RequirementsRollers machine washable at up to 60 C. Includes cleaning brush for hair filter. Waste water tank is dishwasher safe.Periodic replacement of filters and dirt disposal bags
Obstacle AvoidanceNot availablePrecisionVision Navigation to avoid obstacles like pet waste, cords, and furniture
PriceNot availableNot available

Overall Comparison

Karcher FC 7: 45 min runtime, 4.3 kg weight, 59 dB(A). iRobot Roomba j9+: 75 min runtime, 4.07 kg weight (robot), 65 dB, 313 ml dustbin (robot), 2.4L dirtbag (Clean Base).

Pros and Cons

Karcher FC 7 Cordless Hard Floor Cleaner

Pros:
  • Effective on various hard floors
  • Two cleaning modes
  • Easy to fill fresh water tank
  • Easy to remove and dishwasher safe dirty water tank
  • Cleans effectively along edges
  • Self-cleaning mode for rollers and hoses
  • Quiet operation
Cons:
  • No major disadvantages reported.

iRobot Roomba j9+ Robot Vacuum

Pros:
  • Good pet hair pickup
  • Twin rubber brushrolls are easy to clean
  • Effectively navigates around furniture and obstacles
  • Intuitive and clearly labeled app interface
  • Offers customization options
  • Self-emptying function adequately empties the dustbin into the Clean Base
Cons:
  • Requires replacement filters and dirt disposal bags
  • Clean Base can be loud when emptying

User Experiences and Feedback