Introduction
The Gtech AirRam K9 is an enhanced, pet-friendly version of the popular Gtech AirRam Mk2. If you’re already familiar with the standard AirRam, you may be curious how the K9 model compares, especially with its added features for pet owners. In this review, we’ll explore how the K9 builds on the strengths of the original AirRam while introducing unique elements like aluminum components and a replaceable scented tab to keep your home smelling fresh as you clean.
Performance
When it comes to cordless vacuums, performance is key—and the Gtech AirRam K9 holds its own. With a powerful motor and a rotating brush bar, it efficiently lifts dirt from a variety of surfaces, including carpets, hardwood, and tiles. This versatility allows you to clean different types of flooring without needing to adjust settings. In our tests, the K9 edged out the standard AirRam in terms of cleaning power, but the difference was subtle. For those focused solely on cleaning performance, the marginal improvement may not justify the higher price tag.
Design and Features
The Gtech AirRam K9 retains the core features of the original AirRam while adding enhancements aimed at pet owners. Aluminum components in the cleaner head increase durability, addressing potential wear and tear from pet hair and other debris. Upon inspection, the K9 felt sturdier than the standard model, and these upgrades might be worth it for households with heavy cleaning demands.
One standout addition is the scented tabs, designed to combat odors often associated with vacuuming pet hair. These tabs fit behind the main brush bar and emit a pleasant fragrance while cleaning. During testing, the scent was noticeable and refreshing. However, replacing the tabs can be a bit fiddly, and it’s easy to imagine that once they run out, many users may not prioritize replacing them. Fortunately, the tabs are long-lasting.
Weight
Although the K9 weighs slightly more than the standard AirRam due to the additional components, the difference is negligible. The weight is still primarily concentrated in the base, making it easy to maneuver and store. As we noted in our review of the standard AirRam, this design minimizes the risk of accidental damage to furniture and simplifies storage. For comparison, the K9 is considerably lighter than traditional upright vacuums, such as a Dyson, which is nearly twice as heavy.
Maneuverability
One of the K9’s strengths is its ease of maneuverability. The lightweight design, combined with the lack of a bulky body, allows you to navigate tight corners and confined spaces with minimal effort. The joint connecting the arm to the cleaning head pivots smoothly, enabling easy movement around furniture. The K9 can also lay nearly flat, making it simple to clean under chairs, tables, and other raised surfaces.
Unlike some uprights that tip when laid flat, the K9’s center of gravity prevents this issue, ensuring the cleaning head stays firmly on the floor.
Battery Life
The AirRam K9 delivers impressive battery life, much like its predecessor. A single charge provides 40 minutes of runtime, more than enough to clean an average-sized home. Gtech claims that the K9 can handle two full cleaning sessions on a single charge, and our testing supports this claim. Even after thoroughly cleaning a four-bedroom house, there was still battery life remaining.
The vacuum also includes a handy battery indicator on the head unit, allowing you to monitor power levels during use.
Summary
The Gtech AirRam K9 is an excellent all-around vacuum, building on the solid foundation of the original AirRam. However, the question remains: is it worth the additional cost? The primary differences—aluminum parts for durability and scented tabs for freshness—are useful but not game-changing for everyone. If you’re a pet owner dealing with heavy shedding or wear, the K9 might be a worthwhile investment. However, for many users, the standard Gtech AirRam will offer comparable performance at a lower price.
In the end, while the K9 has its merits, our review leans in favor of the standard AirRam for most households. If you’re still inclined towards the K9, check out the latest pricing through the link below.
