What sets the Roomba Max 875 Combo apart from other robot vacuums?
The Roomba Max 875 Combo combines high-end vacuuming with an upgraded mopping system. Its flagship feature, 'ThermaMist,' uses ultrasonic technology to spray heated mist on hard floors, specifically targeting dried-on dirt, oils, and sticky stains—problems most hybrid robot vacuums fail to solve. The mop is also physically larger and spins faster than on previous Roombas, giving it more scrubbing power. Additionally, the mop extends sideways to clean near walls and retracts with a shield to avoid wetting carpets.
On the vacuuming side, the Max 875 debuts 'SealForce'—a skirt around the suction inlet that lowers to improve seal and suction on carpets, helping lift debris even from deeper fibers and grout lines. At 35,000Pa, its listed suction matches top-tier competitors, but the effectiveness ultimately depends on how well all parts work together for real-world cleaning.
Compatibility, installation, and costs: What should buyers know?
The Roomba Max 875 Combo is expected to support major smart home platforms. iRobot products traditionally integrate well with Alexa and Google Home, though Apple HomeKit functionality may require workarounds or updates. Buyers should check for Matter compatibility if future-proofing their smart home ecosystem is a priority.
As with most flagship robot vacuums, installation is straightforward for homeowners but may be trickier for renters due to the need for dock placement and the size of the base station. There’s no drilling required, making it feasible for most users to set up and move if needed.
Running costs include periodic filter and pad replacement, water for mopping, and possible cleaning solution refills. There is no locked subscription, but the high initial purchase price (£1,099, about $1,490) puts it in the premium range. Energy use is low, though the heated mist feature does mildly affect battery life—it’s designed to be efficient since the heating occurs as part of the misting process, not via a separate heater.
Is the ThermaMist feature a game changer or just a gimmick?
Heated mopping is still rare among robot vacuums. Most models either drag a damp pad or squirt room-temperature water, which struggles with baked-on grime and kitchen messes. The Roomba Max 875 Combo's ability to pre-treat stains with ultrasonic-heated mist is genuinely innovative, but real-world effectiveness will come down to how well it identifies and cleans tricky messes compared to rivals like Roborock S8 Pro Ultra or Dreame L20 Ultra.
Its battery-saving approach—the heating is incidental to mist generation, not a separate energy drain—is a thoughtful advantage. Still, buyers should be aware that no robot mop fully replaces manual scrubbing for the toughest spots. For homes with heavy foot traffic, children, or pets (and lots of sticky floor messes), this could be a genuinely useful feature. Users in mostly carpeted or light-use spaces may not see much extra value versus top alternatives.
Who should buy the Roomba Max 875 Combo—and who should skip it?
This is best suited to homeowners who need robust cleaning on hard floors and are looking for hands-off mopping that actually deals with grime—especially in kitchens or high-activity areas. Smart home enthusiasts valuing Alexa or Google Home integration will appreciate its ecosystem fit. If you already own a premium robot vacuum and rarely need heavy-duty mopping, the upgrade might be overkill for the price.
Renters, those with primarily carpeted spaces, or buyers on a budget will likely find more suitable—and less expensive—alternatives. Models like the Roborock Q Revo and Dreame L10s Ultra offer solid cleaning and serviceable mopping for less. If US availability is a concern, note that import restrictions may limit purchasing options for the time being.
Bottom line: Is the Roomba Max 875 Combo worth the investment?
If tackling stubborn, dried messes on hard floors is a top priority, the Max 875 Combo stands out for its heated mist feature—especially in its class. Real-world cleaning and value versus ongoing running costs will decide if it earns a permanent place in your smart home, but for the right user, it offers meaningful, convenience-driven innovation. Alternatives at lower prices remain competitive for most households, so weigh your specific needs before buying.