Tineco iFloor 3 vs 5: Not worth upgrading, unless...
By Naila Syifa
Updated April 2024
The newly released Tineco iFloor 5 offers some incremental improvements, but for most users, the iFloor 3 remains the better value. Let's examine and compare both models across four important aspects to see whether the iFloor 5 is worth the extra cost for your specific needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
Tineco iFloor 3 and iFloor 5 share the same features and specs, except that the iFloor 5 has 30% larger water tanks, 20% longer runtime, and an improved brush head for enhanced edge and corner cleaning. If you already own the iFloor 3, upgrading to the iFloor 5 may not be worth the cost unless you want to clean larger areas in one go or want to easily clean edges and corners.
Tineco iFloor 3
Two-in-One Cleaning
✓ Vacuum & Mop
✓ Streak-Free Drying
✓ Smart Self-Clean
✓ Powerful Suction
Tineco iFloor 5
Enhanced Two-in-One Cleaning
✓ Smart Self-Clean
✓ Enhanced Edge Cleaning
✓ 30% Larger Water Tank
✓ 20% Longer Runtime
#1 Price
Tineco iFloor 5
Tineco iFloor 5 was first released in January 2024 at $300, the exact same price that the iFloor 3 was launched at in 2021. This makes the iFloor 5 a compelling option for first-time buyers, but the iFloor 3 can be found at a discounted price now, making it a better value for those on a budget.
#2 Design & Display
Tineco iFloor 3
Tineco iFloor 3 and iFloor 5 have a similar visual appearance featuring a sleek, modern design with a digital LED display where you can easily monitor the cleaning status, battery level, water tank level, error messages, and more.
Tineco iFloor 5 has an advantage with 30% larger water tanks, which allows you to clean larger areas more efficiently without having to empty and refill the water tanks as frequently. As a comparison, the iFloor 5 can store up to 0.72 L of dirty water and 0.8 L of clean water, while the Tineco iFloor 3 can only store up to 0.5 L of dirty water and 0.6 L of clean water.
In addition, the iFloor 5 introduces an upgraded roller brush with one-sided edge cleaning. This new design allows you to easily clean edges and corners more quickly and efficiently. Meanwhile, with the iFloor 3, you may need to adjust the cleaning angle and direction or make multiple passes to thoroughly clean edges and corners.
#3 Features
Tineco iFloor 5
Unfortunately, the iFloor 5 does not introduce any new features compared to the iFloor 3. Both wet and dry vacuums can simultaneously vacuum and mop your floors, removing wet and dry messes in a single pass. The flat scraper removes wastewater effectively, leaving your floors streak-free and shiny.
You can choose between Eco and Max modes, depending on the level of cleaning power you need. The Eco mode provides a longer runtime with moderate suction power for everyday cleaning, while the Max mode delivers maximum suction power for deep cleaning stubborn messes at the expense of battery life.
One very useful feature for busy parents or pet owners is the self-cleaning cycle. Just by pressing a button, both iFloor models can automatically clean their brush roller and tubes, so you don't have to get your hands dirty. However, you'll still need to clean the water tanks and the docking station manually, ensuring the machine stays in optimal condition and is ready for the next cleaning session.
#4 Battery & Charging
Tineco iFloor 3
Both the iFloor 3 and iFloor 5 have a downside with their short battery life, but the iFloor 5 is a better option between the two, lasting up to 30 minutes in theory.
Tineco iFloor 3, on the other hand, lasts up to 25 minutes in Eco mode and only about 18 minutes in Max mode. If you have a larger area to clean, you may find yourself having to recharge the battery more often with the iFloor 3.
Tineco iFloor 5
Furthermore, reaching a full charge for both models can take around 4-5 hours, which is quite a long wait and can interrupt your cleaning routine if you have a lot of ground to cover. Thus, the iFloor 5 is a more time-saving option, though a 20% longer runtime may not be a significant improvement for some users.
If battery life is very important to you, you may want to consider the higher-end Tineco Floor One S5, which offers a longer 35-minute runtime along with some other more advanced features.
Read also: Tineco Floor One S5 vs iFloor 5
Tineco iFloor 3 vs Tineco iFloor 5
Final Thoughts
Tineco iFloor 5
The Tineco iFloor 5 and iFloor 3 are nearly identical in terms of features and specifications. However, the iFloor 5 boasts 30% more capacity in its water tanks, a 20% increase in runtime, and a redesigned brush head that enables enhanced cleaning of edges and corners.
At a similar price tag, the newer iFloor 5 is definitely a better choice for new users who don't own a Tineco wet and dry vacuum.
However, if you already own the iFloor 3, then the decision to upgrade largely depends on your needs and preferences. If you frequently clean large areas or struggle with cleaning edges and corners, the iFloor 5 may be worth the investment. However, if you're satisfied with your iFloor 3's performance, there's no pressing need to upgrade.
If you like to read more about Wet and Dry Vacuum, check out our other relevant guides here:
Best Tineco Wet Dry Vacuum
Best Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner for Home
Tineco iFloor 2 vs 3
Tineco iFloor 3 vs iFloor 3 Breeze
Tineco Floor One S5 vs S7 Pro
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