I didn't get the point until I picked up the high end model (980) with SLAM, allowing it to vacuum my whole apartment and re-dock itself without needing to worry about stupid infrared beacons to section off rooms.

It does a fantastic job, especially since I have a dog that sheds everywhere. I'd compare it to a dishwasher. There's some prep and its a luxury, but I can't see myself living without a robot vacuum in the future.