I'll admit I was skeptical of Roombas.  I wasn't the first to buy one.  However, I was sick of vacuuming my tile floors every other day to keep the shedding hair from my pit bull under control. 

October 2005, I purchased my Roomba Discovery iRobot at Target.  The shelf price was $279.  They had a special offer of a $20 Target gift card with purchase.  Additionally, the cashier suggested I open a Target credit card account for another 10% off.  I did.  In the end my new Roomba was like $232... and worth every cent!

For those worried it might be complicated, it isn't.  I took it out of the box, placed it in its charger until the power button became green.  Then with the included remote, I pressed "clean."  Away Roomba went whisking up my dog's hair.  When it finished sweeping my kitchen and dining room, it returned to the base charger and docked itself.  I should also add, this version of the Roomba included 2 room limiters, which you place across an open area if you don't want Roomba to go there.  They emit a light that Roomba senses and the Roomba does not cross it.  This is essential if you have stairs, so the Roomba does not fall.

I also use the Roomba on ther Berber carpet in my bedroom.  It works wonderfully getting the dustkitties and pet hair from under the bed - normally an impossible place to reach with any vacuum.  I would recommend it for this type flooring as well as the tile.  I would not recommend it for any longer carpet or a loose weave carpet.

I have been using the Roomba on a daily basis, while I take a shower mornings (its brushes are loud), and it keeps my tile floor clean of hair and dust.  So for everyone who doubts the Roomba's cleaning ability. I can tell you it works.  It made a believer out of me!