Litter-Robot 4 vs 3: 2024 Full Guide

Comparing Features, Performance, and Value to Help You Choose the Perfect Automatic Litter Box for Your Cat

Litter-Robot is a leading brand of self-cleaning litter boxes that automatically scoop the waste after your cat uses it, saving you time and hassle. The brand offers two models: the Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4. Both models have a similar design, with a rotating globe that sifts the litter and deposits the clumps into a waste drawer. However, the Litter-Robot 4 is the newer and more advanced model, launched in 2023, with several upgrades and enhancements over the Litter-Robot 3, which was released in 2015.

Some of the new features of the Litter-Robot 4 include OmniSense™ Detection, which uses smart sensors to detect the cat’s presence and the waste level; QuietSift™ Technology, which reduces the noise during the cleaning cycle; and Whisker™ App, which allows you to monitor and control the device from your smartphone. The Litter-Robot 3, on the other hand, has a simpler weight sensor, a louder operation, and a less flexible app.

So, which model is better for you and your cat? Is the Litter-Robot 4 worth the extra money, or is the Litter-Robot 3 still a reliable and efficient option? In this article, we will compare the two models in detail, based on our extensive testing of the Litter-Robot 4 and our long-term experience with the Litter-Robot 3 Connect. We will cover various aspects such as design, sensors, noise, setup, waste drawer, litter tracking, and cleaning. We will also give you our final verdict on which model we recommend and why.

Why Trust Us?

For several months, we have been using the Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4, testing their functionality and reliability in different scenarios and settings. We also consulted with other cat owners who have tried both models, as well as experts in cat behavior and health. Additionally, we gathered and analyzed data from the Whisker app, which tracks the usage, weight, and waste level of each Litter-Robot. Moreover, we read and compared hundreds of customer reviews and ratings from various sources, such as Amazon, Chewy, and the official Litter-Robot website. Based on all this information, we have created this comprehensive and objective review to help you make an informed decision.

Understanding Litter-Robot: What is a Litter-Robot?

A Litter-Robot is a self-cleaning litter box that automatically scoops dirty litter whenever your cat relieves itself. The machine rotates to sift out the clumped litter, putting it into a waste drawer, then sifts back the unused litter into the box. The Litter-Robot sets itself apart with its sleek design, quiet scooping features, wifi connectivity, and custom mobile phone app.

Feature Comparison

Litter-Robot 4 vs. 3 Feature Comparison Table

Feature Litter-Robot 4 Litter-Robot 3
Price $699 $499 (Litter-Robot 3 Connect: $549)
Dimensions (H x W x D) 29.5” x 22” x 27” 29.5” x 24.25” x 27”
Entryway size 15.75” x 15.75” 15.5” x 10.25”
Height from floor to entryway 12” 13.4”
Control panel location On the top of the bonnet On the base of the machine
Sensors Laser & weight-based sensors Weight sensor
Drawer full indicator Advanced distance sensor Infrared sensor
Safety Detection OmniSense™ SafeCat system Cat sensor
Litter-Robot activation Entry motion sensor, stepping on the platform, & SmartScale sensors inside the globe Weight on platform step & inside the globe
Anti-odor protection Advanced odor protection Enclosed waste drawer
Cycle timer settings 3, 7, 15, 25, or 30 minutes 3, 7, or 15 minutes
QuietSift cleaning Yes No
SmartScale technology Yes No
Whisker app features Litter-Robot usage history, control panel access & lockout, SmartScale sensors & cat specific weight measurements Litter-Robot usage history, control panel access & lockout
Design Sleek and minimalist Bulky and spaceship-like
Colors Black or white Gray or beige
Cat suitability Up to 4 cats Up to 3 cats
Cat weight 3+ lbs 5+ lbs
Nightlight High, medium, or low On or off
Sleep mode Custom schedule 8 hours from start time
Option without Wi-Fi No Yes
Design options With step or handle With or without Connect
Odor Trap Built-in compartment Requires OdorPack Pod
Ramp Not available Available as accessory
Privacy Less More
Waste drawer Deeper and tightly sealed Shallower and latched
Notifications Real-time via app LED indicators
Litter level indicator Yes No
Cat weight recording Yes No
Nightlight location At the entry On the underside of the bonnet
Carbon filter location On the outer bottom of the globe In front of the waste drawer
Footprint Smaller Larger
Globe size Roomier Narrower
Sifting screen Less dust More dust

Core Differences

Design

Litter-Robot 3

Sure, here is the information divided into paragraphs:

Size and Shape
The Litter-Robot 4 is smaller and more rounded than the Litter-Robot 3, which is wider and more oval-shaped.

Entrance
The Litter-Robot 4 has a circular opening that is 15.75” x 15.75”, while the Litter-Robot 3 has an oval-shaped entrance that is 15.5” x 10.25”.

Height
The Litter-Robot 4 has a lower height from the floor to the entrance (12”) and to the step (4.5”) than the Litter-Robot 3 (13.4” and 6.3” respectively).

Design Options
The Litter-Robot 4 has two versions: one with a step and one with a handle, while the Litter-Robot 3 has a ramp option for senior cats.

Color and Style
The Litter-Robot 4 comes in black or white colors, with a sleek and minimalist design, while the Litter-Robot 3 comes in gray or beige colors, with a bulky and spaceship-like design.

Waste Drawer
The Litter-Robot 4 has a rectangular and less deep waste drawer, with a new distance sensor for accurate litter levels, while the Litter-Robot 3 has a deeper and narrower waste drawer, with an infrared sensor that can be triggered by a pile of litter in the center.

Cleaning
The Litter-Robot 4 is more seamless in terms of the number of panels to wipe down, and has a bag that covers the entire waste drawer, while the Litter-Robot 3 has more crevices and gaps, and a bag that clips inside the drawer.

Smart Features

The Litter-Robot 4 is Whisker’s latest and most advanced self-cleaning litter box. It offers several improvements over the Litter-Robot 3 in terms of design, performance, and functionality. One of the most noticeable upgrades is the smart features that the Litter-Robot 4 provides, such as:

Price

One of the main factors that may influence your decision between Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 is the price. Both models are quite expensive compared to other self-cleaning litter boxes, but they also offer more features and benefits.

The Litter-Robot 4 is the newer and more advanced model, so it has a higher price tag than the Litter-Robot 3. The Litter-Robot 4 costs $699, while the Litter-Robot 3 costs $499. However, both models come with a 90-day money-back guarantee and an 18-month warranty, so you can try them risk-free and get support if needed.

Litter-Robot Discount

If you are looking for a cheaper option, you may want to consider the Litter-Robot 3 Connect, which is a version of the Litter-Robot 3 that can connect to the Whiskers App via Wi-Fi. The Litter-Robot 3 Connect costs $549, which is $100 less than the Litter-Robot 4, but it still offers some of the smart features that the Litter-Robot 4 has, such as real-time notifications and health tracking.
Both models come with a 90-day money-back guarantee and an 18-month warranty. You can also choose to pay in monthly installments with Affirm financing. Additionally, you can save $25 off your purchase by using our referral link.

When deciding which model to buy, you should consider your budget and your preferences. Litter-Robot 4 may be worth the extra cost if you want to enjoy the convenience of the Whiskers App, the improved odor control, and the enhanced safety features. However, Litter-Robot 3 is still a reliable and effective self-cleaning litter box that can make your life easier.

Another way to save money on either model is to look for discounts and promotions. For example, you can get $25 off your purchase if you use our referral link. You can also check the Litter-Robot website for seasonal sales and bundle deals. Additionally, you can search the web for coupons and promo codes that may apply to your order. Here are some of the search results that may help you find the best price for your Litter-Robot:

Control

 

One of the main benefits of self-cleaning litter boxes is that they can reduce the unpleasant smell of cat waste. However, not all self-cleaning litter boxes are equally effective at odor control. In this section, we will compare how Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 handle odor management.

Litter-Robot 4 is the winner in terms of odor control. It has a more advanced and integrated odor-blocking technology that makes it easier to maintain a fresh and clean litter box. Litter-Robot 3 is still a decent option for odor control, but it requires some extra accessories and effort to achieve the same level of odor reduction as Litter-Robot 4.

Accessibility

One of the factors to consider when choosing between Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 is how accessible they are for your cats and for you. Accessibility refers to how easy it is for your cats to enter and exit the litter box, as well as how convenient it is for you to operate and maintain the device.

Ease of Cleaning

One of the main advantages of self-cleaning litter boxes is that they reduce the hassle and frequency of cleaning the cat litter. Both the Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 offer convenient features that make cleaning easier and more efficient.

The Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 have a rotating globe that separates the clumps from the clean litter and deposits them into a waste drawer. The waste drawer can be lined with any standard garbage bag or the custom biodegradable bags from Litter-Robot. Both models also have a full drawer indicator that alerts you when the waste drawer needs to be emptied. The Litter-Robot 4 has an advanced distance sensor that measures the litter level more accurately than the infrared sensor of the Litter-Robot 3.

Both models also have an odor control system that consists of a carbon filter and an OdorTrap pack. The OdorTrap pack is a disposable pad that absorbs the odor from the waste drawer. Also, the Litter-Robot 4 has an improved odor control system with a tightly sealed waste drawer and an OdorTrap pack that can be inserted directly into the globe without the need for an additional pod.

The Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 also have a nightlight that helps you see the litter box in the dark and a sleep mode that allows you to set a schedule for when the cleaning cycle is disabled. The Litter-Robot 4’s sleep mode is more customizable, letting you choose different schedules for weekdays and weekends. It also has a nightlight that can be adjusted to three different brightness levels.

 

The Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 are both easy to clean and maintain, but the Litter-Robot 4 has some extra features that make it more user-friendly and odor-resistant. It also has a Whisker app that lets you monitor the litter level, the waste drawer level, and the cat weight from your smartphone. The app also sends you real-time notifications and reminders to help you keep the litter box in optimal condition.

Detailed Analysis

QuietSift™ Operation

One of the main differences between the Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 is the noise level during the cleaning cycle. The Litter-Robot 4 features a patented technology called QuietSift™, which reduces the noise of the sifting mechanism and the motor. This makes the Litter-Robot 4 much quieter and less disturbing for both the cat and the owner.

The Litter-Robot 4 measured an average of 40-55 dBA with a max of about 59 dBA during the sifting cycle, while the Litter-Robot 3 measured an average of 60-62 dBA with a high of about 65 dBA. The ambient noise level in the room was 38 dBA. This means that the Litter-Robot 4 is about 10-15 dBA quieter than the Litter-Robot 3, which is a significant difference in terms of perceived loudness.

The QuietSift™ technology is especially beneficial for cat owners who want to place the Litter-Robot near their bedroom or living room, or who have sensitive or nervous cats who may be scared by loud noises. The Litter-Robot 4 also allows the user to adjust the volume of the beeps and chimes on the control panel, which can further reduce the noise disturbance. The Litter-Robot 3 does not have this option.

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Upgraded Sifting Screen

One of the main differences between the Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 is the design of the sifting screen, which is the part that separates the clumped litter from the clean litter. The Litter-Robot 4 features an improved sifting screen that has several advantages over the Litter-Robot 3’s screen.

The upgraded sifting screen of the Litter-Robot 4 is one of the features that makes it a superior self-cleaning litter box that offers more convenience and comfort for both cats and their owners.

Noise when “Scooping” & Sifting

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing an automatic litter box is the noise level. A loud machine can disturb your cat’s comfort and your peace of mind. We used a digital sound level meter to measure the noise of the Litter-Robot 3 Connect and the Litter-Robot 4 during the scooping and sifting cycle.

Cycle Activation: Now with Two Sensors

One of the most important features of a self-cleaning litter box is how it detects when the cat has used it and when it needs to start a cleaning cycle. The Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 use different types of sensors to achieve this function, with the Litter-Robot 4 having an upgraded system that offers more accuracy and safety.

Nightlight Location

One of the features that both the Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 offer is a nightlight that helps cats find their way to the litter box in the dark. However, there are some differences in the location, functionality, and settings of the nightlight between the two models.

Location

The Litter-Robot 3 has the nightlight located on the underside of the bonnet, which is the top part of the globe that covers the litter bed. The Litter-Robot 4, on the other hand, has the nightlight located at the entry of the globe, with the lights pointing directly to the litter bed. This location is safer and more effective because it illuminates the litter area better and prevents the nightlight from being damaged when removing the bonnet for cleaning.

Functionality

The Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 both have a light sensor that detects the ambient light level and turns on the nightlight automatically when it gets dark. However, the Litter-Robot 4 also has a motion sensor that detects the cat’s presence and turns on the nightlight when the cat enters the globe. This way, the nightlight only stays on when the cat is using the litter box, saving energy and reducing light pollution.

Settings

The Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 both allow the user to control the nightlight settings through the Whisker app, which is a mobile application that connects to the litter box via Wi-Fi. Moreover, Litter-Robot 3 only has two options for the nightlight: Auto or Off. The Litter-Robot 4, however, has more flexibility and customization for the nightlight. The user can choose between Auto, On, or Off modes, as well as adjust the light intensity to Low, Medium, or High. The user can also set a schedule for the nightlight to turn on or off at specific times or days of the week.

The nightlight is a useful feature for cats that may have poor vision or are afraid of the dark. The Litter-Robot 4 improves the nightlight feature by making it more visible, responsive, and adjustable than the Litter-Robot 3. This may enhance the cat’s comfort and confidence when using the litter box at night.

Differences in App Features

One of the main advantages of both Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 is that they can be controlled and monitored remotely through the Whisker app, which is compatible with iOS and Android devices. The app allows you to check the status of the litter box, change the settings, view the usage history, and receive notifications and alerts. However, there are some notable differences in the app features between the two models, which we will explore in this section.

Waste Drawer and Litter Level Indicators

The Litter-Robot 4 has a more advanced and accurate way of measuring the waste drawer and litter level indicators, which are displayed on the app’s home screen. The Litter-Robot 4 uses a combination of a smart weight sensor (SmartScale™ technology) and a motion sensor (Omnisense™ technology) to detect the amount of waste and litter in the unit. The app shows the waste drawer level as a percentage and the litter level as optimal or low. The Litter-Robot 4 also sends you a notification when the waste drawer is full or the litter level is low, so you can take action accordingly.

The Litter-Robot 3, on the other hand, uses an infrared sensor to estimate the waste drawer level based on the number of cleaning cycles. The app shows the waste drawer level as a gauge that fills up as the waste accumulates. However, this is not a real-time measurement and you need to reset the gauge manually every time you empty the waste drawer. The Litter-Robot 3 does not have a litter level indicator on the app, so you need to check the unit periodically to make sure there is enough litter for your cat.

Cat Weight Detection

Another unique feature of the Litter-Robot 4 is that it can record the weight of your cat every time it uses the litter box, thanks to the SmartScale™ technology. The app shows the cat’s weight on the activity list, which you can access from the status menu. This feature can help you monitor your cat’s health and identify any changes or issues that may require veterinary attention. The app also allows you to create cat profiles and assign different weights to different cats, so you can track each cat individually if you have multiple cats.

The Litter-Robot 3 does not have this feature and cannot measure or display your cat’s weight on the app. The only way to know which cat used the litter box is by checking the time of the cleaning cycle on the activity list and comparing it with your cat’s routine.

Nightlight and Sleep Mode Settings

Both Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 have a nightlight feature that provides a soft blue light inside the globe to help your cat find the litter box in the dark. The app allows you to turn the nightlight on, off, or auto, which means the nightlight will turn on automatically when the ambient light is low. However, the Litter-Robot 4 has an additional option to adjust the brightness of the nightlight, from low to high, depending on your preference and your cat’s comfort.

Both models also have a sleep mode feature that allows you to set a period of time when the litter box will not perform a cleaning cycle, to avoid disturbing you or your cat at night. The app allows you to activate or deactivate the sleep mode and choose the start time and duration of the sleep mode. However, the Litter-Robot 4 has a more flexible and customizable sleep mode setting, which allows you to set different schedules for weekdays and weekends, and choose any duration from 1 to 24 hours. The Litter-Robot 3 has a fixed sleep mode duration of 8 hours and does not have the option to set different schedules for different days.

Is there any weight limit with the Litter Robot 4?

There is no weight limit for the Litter-Robot 4. The Litter-Robot 4 has a spacious globe that can accommodate almost any domestic cat, regardless of their size or breed¹. The Litter-Robot 4 also uses advanced sensor technology to detect the cat’s presence and weight inside the globe. This feature can help you monitor your cat’s health and identify any changes or issues that may require veterinary attention.

Nightlight Customization

One of the features that both Litter-Robot 3 and Litter-Robot 4 offer is a nightlight that helps cats find their way to the litter box in the dark. However, there are some differences in how the nightlight works and how it can be customized in each model.

The nightlight customization is one of the aspects that makes the Litter-Robot 4 more advanced and user-friendly than the Litter-Robot 3. It gives users more control over the lighting conditions of the litter box and caters to the different needs and preferences of cats and their owners.

Carbon Filter

One of the features that distinguishes the Litter-Robot 4 from the Litter-Robot 3 is the carbon filter system that helps to reduce litter box odors. The carbon filter is a flexible pad that sits directly over the waste drawer and absorbs the odor gases that rise from the cat waste. The Litter-Robot 4 has some improvements in the design and functionality of the carbon filter that make it more effective and convenient than the Litter-Robot 3.

Strategic Placement in Litter-Robot 4

The location of the carbon filter in the Litter-Robot 4 is more strategic than in the Litter-Robot 3. The Litter-Robot 4 has a filter compartment at the outer bottom of the globe, where the carbon filter is placed. This way, the filter traps the odors as they rise from the waste drawer before they reach the bonnet or the globe. The Litter-Robot 3, on the other hand, has the carbon filter in front of the waste drawer, where the vents are. This means that some of the odor gases may escape through the vents or the opening of the waste drawer, especially when it is full.

OdorTrap Pack Compatibility

The Litter-Robot 4 allows the use of the OdorTrap Pack, a Whisker product that consists of a bag filled with activated carbon granules that neutralize odors more effectively than the carbon filter pad. Moreover, Litter-Robot 4 has a compartment where the OdorTrap bag can be placed without the need to purchase a holder. Additionally, Litter-Robot 3, however, requires the purchase of the OdorPack Pod, a holder that attaches to the inner wall of the waste drawer with magnets, to use the OdorTrap bag.

Sealed Waste Drawer Design

The Litter-Robot 4 has a more tightly sealed waste drawer than the Litter-Robot 3, which helps to contain the odors better. The waste drawer of the Litter-Robot 4 has a deeper design, with flat edges that allow the bag to be wrapped on top. The waste drawer of the Litter-Robot 3 has clips and nooks to tuck the bag in, which may create gaps where the odors can leak.

OdorTrap

The Litter-Robot 3 and 4 both offer some features to help reduce the smell of cat waste, such as carbon filters, enclosed waste drawers, and OdorTrap packs. However, there are some differences between the two models that may affect their odor control performance.

Based on these differences, the Litter-Robot 4 seems to have an edge over the Litter-Robot 3 in terms of odor control. However, both models still require regular maintenance, such as changing the carbon filter, replacing the OdorTrap bag, and emptying the waste drawer, to ensure optimal odor reduction.

Drawer

 

The waste drawer is where the clumped litter and cat waste are deposited after each cleaning cycle. The waste drawer needs to be emptied periodically, depending on the number of cats and the frequency of use.

The Litter-Robot 4 has several improvements over the Litter-Robot 3 in terms of the waste drawer:

Litter-Robot 4 vs 3: Pros and Cons

Litter-Robot 3: Pros and Cons

The Litter-Robot 3 is the older model of the Litter-Robot series, but it is still a reliable and efficient self-cleaning litter box. It has a rotating globe that separates the clean litter from the clumps and deposits them into a waste drawer. It also has a night light, a sleep mode, and an indicator light that tells you when the waste drawer is full. The Litter-Robot 3 can be used by multiple cats and can accommodate cats weighing 5 lbs or more. It also has an optional WiFi feature that allows you to connect it to your smartphone and monitor its status and usage.

Some of the pros of the Litter-Robot 3 are:

Some of the cons of the Litter-Robot 3 are:

Litter-Robot 4: Pros and Cons

The Litter-Robot 4 is the newest and most advanced model of the Litter-Robot series. It has all the features of the Litter-Robot 3, plus some improvements and additions. For example, it has a sleeker and more compact design, with two options: one with a step and one with a handle. It also has a deeper and more sealed waste drawer that can hold more litter and control odor better. Moreover, it has a Bluetooth and WiFi feature that connects it to the Whiskers App, which can provide real-time notifications, data analysis, and health insights for up to four cats per Litter-Robot 4. Additionally, it has more safety features, such as sensors that detect when a cat enters or exits the globe, and a cycle delay customization that lets you choose between 3, 7, 15, or 30 minutes.

Pros of the Litter-Robot 4:

Cons of the Litter-Robot 4:

Overall Experiences

Both the Litter-Robot 3 and the Litter-Robot 4 are excellent self-cleaning litter boxes that can make cat owners’ lives easier and more convenient. They have similar features, such as wifi connectivity, mobile app control, odor protection, and safety detection. However, the Litter-Robot 4 has some advantages over the Litter-Robot 3, such as a sleeker design, a wider entrance, a quieter operation, a more accurate waste drawer indicator, and a SmartScale technology that tracks your cat’s weight and health. The Litter-Robot 4 also has a higher price tag, which may be a deterrent for some customers. Ultimately, the choice between the two models depends on your budget, preferences, and needs.

Conclusion

Is the Litter-Robot 4 Worth the Cost? (YES)

The Litter-Robot 4 is a significant upgrade from the Litter-Robot 3 Connect in terms of design, performance, noise level, and features. It offers a sleeker and more modern look, a larger and more comfortable entrance for your cat, a quieter and smoother sifting cycle, and a smarter and more accurate waste drawer sensor. It also has a new OmniSense™ detection system that uses laser and weight sensors to track your cat’s health and litter box activity via the Whisker app. The Litter-Robot 4 is definitely worth the cost if you want the best self-cleaning litter box for your cat and yourself.

The Litter-Robot 4 is Whisker’s latest and most advanced self-cleaning litter box. It has many improvements and innovations over the previous Litter-Robot 3 Connect, making it a more convenient, reliable, and user-friendly device. The Litter-Robot 4 is designed to make your cat’s litter box experience more comfortable and enjoyable, while also giving you more insights and control over your cat’s health and well-being. The Litter-Robot 4 is a great investment for any cat owner who wants to save time, money, and hassle on litter box maintenance.

We hope this comparative review of the Litter-Robot 3 Connect and the Litter-Robot 4 has helped you decide which one is right for you and your cat. Both devices are excellent choices for automatic litter boxes, but the Litter-Robot 4 has some clear advantages and benefits that make it worth the extra cost. The Litter-Robot 4 is not only a litter box, but also a health monitor, a data tracker, and a smart assistant for your cat. If you want to give your cat the best litter box experience possible, the Litter-Robot 4 is the way to go.

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