Looking for the best robot vacuum deal right now? The iRobot Roomba 104 2-in-1 robot vacuum and mop has dropped to $249.99 at Amazon, $200 off its usual $449.99 list price, a sizable 44% discount on a trusted brand’s combo cleaner.
This is a rare chance to grab a self-emptying Roomba that both vacuums and mops without pushing your budget into premium territory. For busy homes with pets, kids, or a mix of hard floors and area rugs, the feature-to-price ratio here is unusually strong.
Why This Roomba 104 Discount Stands Out Right Now
Most 2-in-1 robots with a self-emptying base come in at $400 to $900 depending on brand and features. At $249.99, the Roomba 104 undercuts many midrange options while delivering essentials that matter day to day: solid suction, reliable navigation, and truly hands-off dust disposal.
iRobot’s long-standing strengths—software polish, parts availability, and steady app updates—add confidence. You’re not just paying less; you’re buying into an ecosystem known for dependable mapping and scheduling. Consumer Reports has frequently highlighted iRobot’s navigation and app usability in its evaluations, which aligns with the 104’s smart mapping capabilities.
Key Features You’re Paying For With Roomba 104 2-in-1
- Strong suction and dual brushes: iRobot’s product materials cite up to 70x more suction versus baseline Roomba models, backed by a multi-surface main brush and an edge-sweeping side brush to pull debris from baseboards and corners. Translation: less cereal underfoot and fewer dust lines along the walls.
- 2-in-1 cleaning with a microfiber pad: Snap on the included mop pad to wipe hard floors after vacuuming. It’s designed for routine upkeep of sealed surfaces like tile, vinyl, and hardwood, tackling light soils and pet paw prints between deeper cleans.
- LiDAR mapping and smart routes: The 104 builds a room map and follows efficient lines instead of random pinball patterns. That means faster, more complete coverage and fewer missed spots around table legs or under sofas. You can customize cleaning modes and set targeted jobs in the app.
- Self-emptying base up to 75 days: The robot automatically empties its bin into a disposable bag at the dock, reducing maintenance to roughly seasonal bag swaps. iRobot says the bag traps up to 99% of allergens and pet dander—useful for sensitive noses. The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology notes that reducing dust exposure is a key part of symptom management, and hands-free emptying helps.
How Roomba 104 Compares to Rivals at Similar Prices
Shark, Roborock, and Eufy all compete in this space, often bundling higher-end features like auto-washing mop pads or larger stations—but at higher prices. Roborock’s self-wash docks, for example, typically push totals well beyond $500. If you want an automated mop-wash system, you’ll pay more. If your priority is core cleaning plus self-emptying at a bargain, the Roomba 104 hits a sweet spot.
Against similarly priced models, the 104’s LiDAR mapping and iRobot app polish are standouts. Some budget 2-in-1s rely on bump-and-go navigation and lack room maps, which can mean longer runtimes and missed patches. The Roomba’s structured pathing is the difference between a tidy pass and a frustrating redo.
Real-World Use, Setup Tips, and Important Caveats to Know
For mixed flooring, set no-mop zones over carpets or remove the mop pad before a whole-home vacuum. Mopping on high-pile rugs is a no-go for any 2-in-1. On sealed hard floors, schedule a vacuum pass first, then a mop pass for best results, especially in kitchens and entryways.
Plan on routine upkeep: wash the microfiber pad after a few sessions, check the main brush for hair weekly if you have pets, and replace filters and bags as needed. Consumer Reports suggests regular filter maintenance to maintain suction; a quick monthly check keeps performance steady.
As with most robot vacuums, noise rises on max suction. If you work from home, schedule runs while you’re out or during quiet office blocks. The LiDAR helps it finish efficiently, so it spends less time roaming and more time actually cleaning.
Should You Buy Roomba 104 Now at This Discounted Price?
If you want a reliable 2-in-1 with self-emptying, LiDAR mapping, and a well-supported app under $300, this is one of the strongest values available. It won’t auto-wash its mop pad or carry every flagship feature, but it nails the fundamentals and dramatically cuts manual chores.
Inventory and pricing can shift quickly on popular robot vacuums, so verify the discount at checkout. For most households—especially pet owners or anyone short on time—the Roomba 104 at $249.99 is a practical, high-impact upgrade to your cleaning routine.