With so many different models available for sale, finding a robotic vacuum that combines value and features is difficult. Even if you narrow down your choice to vacuums from Roomba, you’ll likely have questions about how they work and how long the battery lasts in each one.
I hope to take some of the guesswork out of choosing one of the top models in this article, which compares the 650 to the 690 and offers 650 and Roomba 690 reviews.
Though both robotic vacuums come with support from Roomba, dirt sensors and mobile apps, you can see how one comes out on top in my Roomba 650 vs 690 head to head comparison.
Table of Contents
650 vs 690: Who is the Winner?
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Roomba considers both the 650 and 690 models as budget vacuums for those who want a robotic vacuum but can’t afford to spend a lot of money. Both have a low price tag and nice features, including three-stage cleaning and the ability to set schedules. I have to give the blue ribbon to the 690 though, as it’s compatible with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. The convenience of those voice controls is a must for anyone who hates fumbling with remote control. With the 690, you also get an auto-recharge that lets the vacuum know when it needs to charge, which causes it to head back to the docking station.
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iRobot Roomba 650 Review
When writing this Roomba 650 review, I wanted to highlight some of the top features of this robot vacuum for pet hair.
It has a budget-friendly design that includes three-stage cleaning to ensure it doesn’t miss any dust and scheduled cleaning options for those who want the vacuum to clean when they’re at work.
All the buttons that you need are conveniently located on the top and let you set the vacuum to run and clean. You won’t find a remote app that works with the 650 though.
The iRobot Roomba 650 manual lacks any instructions on using voice commands or WiFi because this model lacks those features.
Pros
- Includes a scheduling option
- Easy to use
- Works on hardwood, vinyl, and other flooring types
- Affordable price
Cons
- No WiFi option
- Typically only cleans one room per battery charge
- Brushes can stop working as they pick up hair
iRobot Roomba 690 Review
Though iRobot Roomba 690 reviews point out how similar it looks to the 650, it comes with both voice control and app options.
When you connect it via WiFi to an Alexa or Google Assistant device, you can set up a new cleaning schedule or adjust your current schedule and control the vacuum from anywhere around the house.
Thanks to the auto-recharge, you never need to worry about the battery. The Roomba 690 manual explains how the vacuum will charge its battery and let you troubleshoot any problems you have with this and other features.
Its battery is the only real issue you might face as some last for less than two months.
Pros
- Works with WiFi
- Automatic recharge option
- Compatible with Google and Amazon devices
- Budget-friendly
- Can clean more than one room per cycle
Cons
- The battery may need replacing in as little as 18 months
- May require hair removal from the brushes
- Is a little more expensive
Comparison Chart
Features | Roomba 650 | Roomba 690 |
|---|---|---|
Image |  |  |
Price | ||
Schedule Controls | Yes, onboard | Yes, via remote control |
iRobot App Compatible | No | Yes |
Battery Life | Up to three years | 1.5 to two years |
Alexa and Assistant Compatible | No | Yes |
Weight | 7.9 pounds | 7.8 pounds |
Battery Type | Ni-CD | Lithium-Ion |
Virtual Wall | Yes, one virtual wall | Yes, one virtual wall barrier |
Virtual Wall Barrier
One big difference between the two models that you can read about in the Roomba 650 manual or iRobot Roomba 690 manual is the virtual wall barrier. With the 650 Roomba, you get a virtual wall that stops the vacuum from moving past an invisible barrier. 690 owners get a virtual wall barrier that lets them create a barrier that extends the range of the vacuum.
Battery Life
In my above iRobot Roomba 650 review and Roomba 690 review, you learned that these vacuums come with a battery that can last for 18 months or longer. 650 owners can get up to three years out of a single battery too. Both models have a similar run time of around 60 minutes per charge.
WiFi and Connectivity
For WiFi connectivity and remote control access, you want to pay attention to my iRobot Roomba 690 review that mentioned those features. As one of the newer Roomba robot vacuums, it can connect to the app on your smartphone via WiFi and use the same signal to connect to a Google Assistant or Amazon Alexa device. Roomba did not include the same features on the 650.
Pet Hair
Pet owners may want to choose one of the Roomba vacuums designed for pet hair such as the 890 and newer models. Both the 650 and 690 can handle some pet hair, but that hair can also stick to the brushes and require manual removal. The iRobot Roomba 690 robot vacuum does a slightly better job on pet hair, especially on carpet. It also outperforms the 650 on tile and vinyl floors and reduces the risk that the brushes might damage the floor.
Roomba 650 vs 690: Which Should You Buy?
If you want to see how robot vacs perform in your home and don’t want to spend a lot of money, search for a Roomba 650 sale to save some money. This budget-friendly vacuum includes one virtual wall that it runs along and runs for up to one full hour.
You get the same battery life with the 690 along with Roomba 690 mapping that learns how to work in your home. This model is also controllable via a smartphone app and connects to different devices for even more convenience.
Keep Your Home Clean with the Roomba 690
When you quickly compare the iRobot Roomba 650 and 690 models, you’ll find that the 690 wins in most categories. The only spot where it doesn’t win is in the overall length of the battery. You may need to replace this battery within one to two years. The one that comes with the Roomba 650 can last for up to three years. This is the only one of the two vacuums that use WiFi to connect to an Amazon or Google device, which lets you conveniently schedule the vacuum and run it when you’re in a different room. Make sure that you compare the Roomba 650 vs 690 to see which one wins in the categories that are most important to you.
