Litter-Robot 3 vs. Litter-Robot 4. Which is best for your cat (and you)?
Whisker designed and manufactured the Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 self-cleaning litter boxes. You will find a full comparative review of the 2 as we review the differences and pros & cons of each.
Both types contain a rotating globe that separates cleanly from used cat litter and collects used cat litter in a separate collection compartment.
The Litter-Robot 3 had a high customer rate all over the internet and was one of the best-selling robot cat litter boxes before the firm released the newest, Litter-Robot 4, which took everything that was good about the previous model and delivered a new, advanced box to the next level.
Litter-Robot 4 has more functions than Litter-Robot 3 because it is the most recent model. It connects to the Whiskers App through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The app provides real-time updates and also collects health information for up to four cats per Litter-Robot 4.
However, just because Litter-Robot 4 has more functions does not necessarily make it the ideal choice for you. Since I tried both models, I created this comparison tool to help you pick which Litter-Robot model to purchase.
Quick disclaimer: If you decide to purchase either the Litter-Robot 4 or Litter-Robot 3, we would highly appreciate if you use our referral link used throughout the review. This helps us maintain high-quality content, test cat products and provide an honest expert opinion. Also, this is not a sponsored review.
Litter-Robot 3 vs. Litter-Robot 4: Difference Overview
| Specs and Features | Litter-Robot 3 | Litter-Robot 4 |
| Dimensions | 24.25” W x 27” D x 29.5” H | 22” W x 27” D x 29.5” H |
| Entryway Dimensions | 10.25” x 15.5” | 15.75” x 15.75” |
| Weight | 24 lbs | 24 lbs |
| Power | 15V | 15V |
| Whisker App Compatibility | No (App compatible with Litter-Robot 3 Connect) | Yes |
| Minimum Weight Requirement for Cats | 3 lbs | 5 lbs |
| Entry Type | Oval upward-angled | Wide round flat faced |
| Sleep Mode | 8 hours from the start time | Custom schedule Weekdays/Weekends |
| Nightlight | Auto / Off | Auto, On or Off / High, Medium, or Low |
| Filter Location | On waste drawer vents | Outer bottom of the globe |
| Optional Designs | None | Handle and Step |
| Multi-cat use | Ideally up to 3 cats | Can handle up to 4 cats |
| Types of sensor: | Weight sensor | Curtain sensor and SmartScale sensor |
| Cleaning Cycle Time Duration | 3 – 15 min | Cycle Duration: 3 – 30 min |
| LED Display | No | Yes |
| WhisperQuiet Cleaning Cycle | Yes | No |
Litter-Robot 3 vs. Litter-Robot 4: Core Differences
Design
The Litter-Robot 4 is more compact and has a sleeker appearance. Also, it takes up less floor space owing to its smaller footprint.
The Litter-Robot 4 also has two design options. One with a step and one with a handle. The model with a handle is for ideal cats who like jumping straight into the unit without using the step. It uses less space because it has a shorter depth.
I love that it fits in any room in our house and I do not have to worry about the space it will take up.
Smart Features
Litter-Robot 4 is much improved over Litter-Robot 3. First, it is compatible with the Whisker App, allowing you to receive real-time warnings about blocked cleaning cycles and full waste bins. Litter-Robot 4 also offers quieter cleaning cycles, making it less disruptive to cats.
Most significantly, Litter-Robot 4 includes more safety features to keep your cat safe. If a cat enters the globe, the various sensors will stop the cleaning cycle. It also has a cycle delay customization which you can choose between 3, 7, 15, or 30 minutes.
The 30-minute wait time is an excellent option for me since I have two cats using my Litter-Robot 4. This setup is a great way for them to use the litter box before the cleaning cycle.
Price
The Litter-Robot 3 is less expensive, yet it is still a competent self-cleaning litter box. It may not have all of the frills and features of the Litter-Robot 4, but it makes litter box cleaning easier than traditional cat litter boxes and other self-cleaning litter boxes.
Odor Control
To handle odors more effectively, the Litter-Robot has an Odor Trap Pack. The Odor Trap can be inserted within the compartment on the outer bottom of the globe with Litter-Robot 4 without the need to purchase the OdorPack Pod that holds the Odor Trap. This feature is an upgrade from Litter-Robot 3 wherein you have to buy the OdorPack Pod.
Furthermore, the Litter-Robot 4’s waste drawer is tightly sealed, which better controls odor. Additionally, it is deeper, and the edges lack latches and crevices for tucking the bag. Because the edges are flat, you can easily wrap the bag on top.
I am sensitive when it comes to bad odor so this feature of Litter-Robot 4 is a plus for me.
Accessibility
Cats can easily land on Litter-Robot 3‘s step due to its long shape. A ramp for older cats is also an option. This ramp is incompatible with Litter-Robot 4, which also doesn’t currently have a ramp made for cats with mobility issues.
In addition, although Litter-Robot 4’s entrance is bigger, Litter-Robot 3 has greater privacy. Most cats have little trouble fitting inside either model because their heights are comparable.
Ease of Cleaning
Both models’ waste containers should be cleaned out once on a weekly basis. However, Litter-Robot 4 provides real-time notifications to notify you when it is time to dump the trash bin and refill its globe with fresh litter.
The globe’s interior does an excellent job of litter coating high sprays and collecting old litter into the waste basket. The bonnet also slips off quickly and usually only requires a quick wipe down every now and then.
Nonetheless. Whichever of the two you get, I think there is not much of a big difference when it comes to cleaning. They are both easy to clean up and you can do it without much fuss.
Litter-Robot 3: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Automated nightlight
- Adaptable Sleep Mode
- Easy-to-use Control Panel
- Option to lock out the control panel
- Several accessories
- Notification of full waste bin
Cons
- No option for a Wi-Fi connection
- To use, cats must weigh at least 5 pounds.
Litter-Robot 4: Pros and Cons
Pros
- Minimum cat weight requirement of 3 pounds
- Wi-Fi is available, and Whisker App connects to it.
- excellent management of odor
- Quiet cleaning cycles
- Multiple sensors enhance safety
- More compact footprint and design
Cons
- The control panel could initially appear confusing.
- There is no ramp accessory.
Conclusion
Litter-Robot 4 is the obvious front runner in terms of features and performance. It’s a major improvement over Litter-Robot 3. Along with making cleanup easier, the Whiskers App’s capacity to track data helps customers stay on top of buying litter and tracking various aspects of their cats’ health.
Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 have received mostly positive feedback from customers. Thousands of reviews food both models may be found on the Litter-Robot website and Amazon.
The Litter-Robot 4’s new design and even quieter cleaning cycles are a hit with customers, including me. Cleaning is made much simpler by real-time notifications, and the odor-blocking technology is a big improvement over the prior model.
While I personally prefer the Litter-Robot 4. Litter-Robot 3 is still, a strong competitor in the self-cleaning litter box industry. It is still a terrific option even without the fancy features.
Both designs make great self-cleaning litter boxes overall. Both options will be advantageous to various cat owners. You’ll be able to select the ideal model for you and your kitties once you’ve given some thought to your personal priorities and preferences.
Related: The Best Cat Litter Subscription Services
Good article , but just an fyi the Litter Robot 3 is compatible with the whisker App
You have the weight limits reversed in your comparison chart.