Narwal Flow by Narwal vs iRobot Roomba Max 705 by iRobot: Review

Narwal Flow measures 35.1 x 36.4 x 9.5 cm and weighs 4.5 kg, slightly taller in profile but with a flat mop roller design. iRobot Roomba Max 705 is 35.6 × 35.1 × 10.4 cm and lighter at 3.4 kg, using dual anti-tangle rubber brushes and a mop cover that deploys when raised on carpets. Narwal Flow handles taller thresholds up to 30 mm, while both incorporate side brushes for edge cleaning.

Both robots achieve 0.3 m/s speed, with Narwal Flow using embedded LiDAR and AI Twin-AI Dodge for advanced 3D mapping. iRobot Roomba Max 705 relies on SLAM navigation combining ClearView Pro LiDAR and PrecisionVision AI for room-by-room paths in dim lighting. Narwal Flow demonstrates superior threshold crossing at 30 mm, per real-world tests.

Narwal Flow integrates dual RGB cameras, LED, structured light, LiDAR, cliff, and bump sensors for comprehensive detection. iRobot Roomba Max 705 features ClearView Pro LiDAR, PrecisionVision AI camera, cliff, bump, and dirt detection sensors, enabling recognition of cords, socks, and pet waste. Both include cliff sensors, but iRobot adds dirt detection for targeted cleaning.

Narwal Flow employs proprietary AI navigation algorithms with Twin-AI Dodge for obstacle avoidance and cleaning optimization. iRobot Roomba Max 705 uses PrecisionVision AI for vision-based hazard identification and wet/dry mess detection, triggering repeat passes. Narwal software offers adjustable water levels, while iRobot focuses on logical pathing and Carpet Boost.

Both models have a 2-3 year lithium-ion battery lifespan under normal use. Narwal Flow's 6400 mAh battery provides 190 minutes runtime with 3.5-hour recharge, compared to iRobot Roomba Max 705's 5000 mAh offering 210 minutes and 4-hour recharge. Narwal Flow consumes less power in some tests despite higher 22,000 Pa suction.

Narwal Flow suits pet owners and mixed flooring with strong mopping via double-wide roller and auto-lifting, excelling in corner cleaning. iRobot Roomba Max 705 fits premium homes and smart ecosystems, with dual brushes for carpets and high suction for large areas. Both handle residential pet households, but Narwal prioritizes mopping, iRobot vacuuming.

Narwal Flow uses proprietary software with Narwal app for scheduling, voice via “Hey Nawa,” and customizable settings like water levels. iRobot Roomba Max 705 runs iRobot OS with Roomba Home App, supporting Alexa, Siri, Google Assistant, and child lock features. Narwal offers more granular controls, while iRobot emphasizes broad voice integration.

Narwal Flow includes cliff sensors, obstacle avoidance, and auto mop lifting to prevent carpet damage. iRobot Roomba Max 705 provides cliff detection, anti-collision sensors, and app-based child lock. Both employ bump sensors, with iRobot adding pet waste avoidance via AI vision.