Doing housework is tedious and time-consuming which is why more and more people are turning to robot vacuum cleaners to save time and increase efficiency.
When searching for a robot vacuum cleaner, there are so many options. In this post, we’ll compare two of the most popular models from the Ecovacs Deebot range, the Deebot 900 vs 901.
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Product Overviews
Fundamentally these models are very similar. They have navigation features, and mapping abilities, and operate on WiFi technology. They are both compatible with the Ecovacs app which can be used to schedule, monitor, and customize cleaning. They have also both been modified from previous models to include certain hardware features that enhance cleaning processes. They are also more convenient than older models in terms of their sleek looks and design, navigation abilities, noiseless mode of operation, and their software compatibility among other features.
Ecovacs Deebot 900
When looking at both robot vacuum cleaners, the Ecovacs Deebot 900 has a strong navigation system that enables it to avoid obstacles quite easily. This navigation also helps it to properly function within virtual boundaries that can be set up with the Ecovacs app. It also has a great suction ability as it makes light work of dust.
The Deebot 900 has a sleek design that offers easy accessibility to the dustbin from the top of the robot. In addition, it possesses a good battery lifespan. On the occasion that the battery dies, the robot vacuum recharges and picks up from where it originally stopped.
With the help of the app it can be configured to only clean certain areas of the building. Some areas might demand more cleaning than the others (such as the kitchen), therefore it can be programmed to clean these areas more often than the others.
On the more negative side, the dustbin opening gets clogged up with light particles such as pet hair which can only be cleared out manually. This might not be much work, but it still demands effort on the part of the owner. The dustbin is also on the small side. This requires regular monitoring and emptying the dustbin, especially when cleaning over large areas.
One of the most significant challenges with this model is a large amount of charging time which usually falls within the range of 5hr to 7hrs. In regards to the software, in some cases, users have given feedback about the app showing wrong dates. Along with this, there can be a difficulty in logging in sometimes. However, this only happens in remote cases and is usually not the case when the app and firmware have been updated.
The app is generally simple, easy to use, and straightforward and we love that the app has an in-app chat feature that allows ease of access to the Ecovacs support team.
Find out more
- Smart Navi 3.0: Scans and maps your home so you can decide when, where and what you want cleaned.
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ecovacs Deebot 901
On the other hand, the Ecovacs Deebot 901 has a system that is more compatible with the software and wireless connections. The navigation system of this robot vacuum allows it to create its maps, clean the stipulated area, and return to its station where it recharges. As with the Deebot 900, the Deebot 901 can be controlled and charged with various devices that include the Ecovacs app, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. It also automatically installs updates over WiFi in Over The Air mode.
This vacuum also has interchangeable suction plates that can be changed depending on the surface (carpet or hard floor). This ensures deeper cleaning and concentration over specific areas with its Edge and Spot mode. The 901 has a fast cleaning time that enables it to clean areas of up to 500ft for half an hour.
It usually returns to its charging station but in the case that it does not, it can easily be found with the app. This robot vacuum strictly adheres to the preset virtual boundaries and may slightly bump into the boundary walls but never enough to push or move anything out of place. The Deebot 901 also employs the use of laser technology. With its laser distance sensor (LDS), the vacuum has the ability to navigate the floor plan more efficiently
The Ecovacs Deebot 901 also informs you of its progress with real-time reporting. It can easily create a navigation map of the house after the first time of cleaning the house on auto. However, sometimes it is important to “babysit” the robotic vacuum through its first couple of cleaning runs.
In some cases, the Deebot 901 encounters problems in transitioning between floor materials (sometimes turning around after experiencing difficulty). The issue of transitioning from hardwood area to rug is more prominent in some Deebot 901 models than in others
However, when faced with the comparison of Deebot 900 vs 901, the more appropriate choice would be to go with the Ecovacs Deebot 901. Both models have navigation systems but the Deebot 901 is a more interactive navigation system that enables it to map out the floor plan in real-time, allowing it more freedom to customize the cleaning procedure.
The Deebot 901 is still more convenient in terms of its cleaning ability; its interchangeability of suction plates enhances versatility and effectiveness across different plates. While the Deebot 900 has interchangeable suction plates as well, reviews show that the Deebot 901 that a wider range of surface cleaning abilities.
Another significant determining factor in the Deebot 900 vs 901 is the ability of the latter to automatically updates its firmware over Wifi connections, eliminating the need for a manual update. These factors and several others such as a longer runtime and exceptional ability to clean pet hairs are what make the Deebot 901 stand out in an Ecovacs Deebot 900 vs 901 analysis.
- Easy to navigate - This technology enables the DEEBOT to skillfully navigate and map your floor plan in real-time. The map is interactive, allowing freedom to customize.
Last update on 2023-10-03 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Deebot 900 vs 901: Breaking it down
Runtime
In terms of runtime, the Deebot 901 outperforms the Deebot 900. While the Deebot 900 has a runtime of 100 minutes, the Deebot 901 has a long time of 120 minutes. This means that the latter will clean for longer and reduce the need for charging, fundamentally resulting in quicker, more efficient cleaning.
Size of cleaning area
The Deebot 901 also cleans larger surface areas owing to its feature a larger Max Cleaning Area, which is 1500 square feet. This means that it can clean larger areas and so it is suitable for large buildings.
Cleaning functionality
The Deebot 901 gets more cleaning done due to its modified S-pattern movement ensuring a more thorough and efficient cleaning. This results from the changes that were made to the sensors and so the movement of the robotic vacuums is now more systematic. As a result, small areas and spaces that might have been ignored by the Deebot 900 will now be covered by the Deebot 901.
Suction
The suction function of both cleaners also defers. Deebot 900 has a suction strength of 1500pa while that of Deebot 901 is slightly larger at 1800pa. This enables the Deebot 901 to function better over rug surfaces or pile carpets. However, if you have lots of this carpet, both of these models may struggle to reach the cleaning performance you would hope for.
Size and structure
The Deebot 901 which weighs 9.7 pounds, is heavier than the Deebot 900 (7.7 pounds). However their respective structures differ. The Deebot 901 has a minimalistic design that enables it to reach areas that the 900 would not have access to, such as under furniture and tight corners.
Pricing
Pricing is generally lower for the Deebot 900. Although the difference in pricing isn’t always much as both vacuums do not have significant differences.
Smart Navi 3.0
Ecovacs Deebot 901. Both vacuums are very convenient devices, that will help you in your everyday household chores. The first and most important thing is of course the cleaning system – Both units have a Smart Navi 3.0 feature, which ensures great mapping technology.
This system also includes a systematic cleaning path with smart boundaries. The vacuum will start cleaning your floor by running in a path covering every inch of your room. This is also the moment when Deebot starts mapping your floor for better understanding and more customizability.
FAQS
How can I tell when it’s charging?
Whenever either of the vacuum cleaners is charging, it is displayed on the app.
How can I fix the app to the Wifi connectivity so that the smarts can be used?
This can be done using a 2.4Hz Wifi. You can check for available networks and use connect the robot vacuum through your device. If you do not have a 2.4Hz, then you can use a Wifi extender with 2.4Hz Wifi.
How do I empty the bin?
This is done by simply lifting the top cover and taking out the bin that lies underneath.
What is the maximum area that they can clean before dying?
Fully charged, the Deebot 900 and 901 can clean approximately 84m. The Deebot 901 will cover a larger area on average given that it has a longer running time.
If my Deebot’s battery is draining in less than the normal time what do I do?
If this happens, you might want to check with the support team through the in-app feature. You can also contact Amazon or whichever platform you purchased it from.
Final thoughts on the Deebot 900 vs 901
Both the Deebot 900 compared to the 901 is highly efficient robot vacuums and both would be a solid choice for most homes. While the Deebot 901 possesses a slight edge over the Deebot 900, their differences are not all that much and both can still be used to achieve the same objectives.
If the difference in effectiveness is what makes the difference for the customer then they can go ahead and acquire the Deebot 901. If the slight difference doesn’t matter, they can acquire the Deebot 900 and save some money in the process.
While they both have certain relative setbacks such as the absence of a mopping function (which is present in newer models), they are both effective robot vacuums and they deliver good results.
Hopefully, this discourse on Deebot 900 vs 901 can help you in choosing the right robot vacuum for you.
Matt is the founder of the Little Robot Shop, who has spent much of the last decade hacking home cleaning with various robots and devices to make keeping his home clean as easy as possible. Not an easy task with two young children.
When not working on the Little Robot Shop website or YouTube channel, he works as technical support and product specialist for a fast-growing digital company. He does his best to get his younglings to code, which will be an essential skill in the future.
