iRobot Roomba j7+

Quick verdict

A mainstream self-emptying Roomba that can be coaxed toward local control via the community rest980 HTTP API, though it remains cloud-leaning. Only the optional rest980 HTTP API talks to the robot locally; the stock integration relies on iRobot's cloud, so local control is partial. It leans on the manufacturer cloud, so it's here mainly as a fallback when local options run short.

Standout: A mainstream self-emptying Roomba that can be coaxed toward local control via the community rest980 HTTP API, though it remains cloud-leaning.

Last checked: 2026-06-02

Compatibility snapshot

Why it stands out

• Official HA integration with continuous mode that can be disabled
• Community rest980 path uses the local HTTP API for status/commands
• Reliable obstacle avoidance and self-empty dock

Reasons to hesitate

• The single MQTT slot and default continuous mode push toward the cloud
• Truly local control needs the extra rest980 add-on and is partial
• No map rendering in HA and no Valetudo path

Best for

• Households already in the iRobot ecosystem wanting basic HA start/stop/dock
• A last-resort filler when local-first robots are unavailable

Avoid if

• you want fully local control with no cloud account

Privacy and local-control notes

Only the optional rest980 HTTP API talks to the robot locally; the stock integration relies on iRobot's cloud, so local control is partial. This one depends on the iRobot cloud, making it the least private pick in its category.

Home Assistant support: supported · integration path: iRobot Roomba (official); community rest980 for more-local control.

Buying reality check

Price notes: Around $599. A premium pick.

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