Litter Robot 4 vs Litter Robot 3 (2025): What’s New & Which Is Better?

Pet parents know that one of the most unpleasant chores in owning a cat is dealing with the litter box. Fortunately, automatic self‑cleaning litter boxes like the Litter‑Robot series aim to revolutionize how we care for our feline friends. In 2025, the Litter‑Robot 4 remains the flagship model, while the Litter‑Robot 3 still attracts buyers seeking value and reliability. But how do they really compare? And is the newer model worth the extra cost?

In this detailed guide, we’ll break down every key difference between the Litter‑Robot 4 and Litter‑Robot 3, including features, usability, performance, price, and the real‑world experience of thousands of cat owners.

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1. Quick Overview: LR4 vs LR3

• Litter‑Robot 4: Newest model with advanced sensors, wider entryway, smart app integrations, improved odor control, and a larger usable waste drawer. Designed for multi‑cat homes and tech‑focused users. Litter-Robot – Self-Cleaning Litter Box+1
• Litter‑Robot 3 (Connect): Reliable, simpler automatic litter box with core self‑cleaning features, slightly smaller opening, and fewer smart conveniences — but at a lower price point. Forbes

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2. Design & Build: What’s New in the LR4

Wider and More Accessible Entry

One of the most immediately noticeable upgrades in the Litter‑Robot 4 is its larger opening — approximately 15.75 inches wide compared with the LR3’s 10.25‑inch opening. This makes it far easier for larger cats or those with mobility issues to enter without discomfort. Litter-Robot – Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Smarter Waste Drawer Layout

While the LR3’s drawer appears larger, its less‑efficient design results in less usable space. The LR4’s new waste drawer design boosts usable volume by about 20%, allowing more waste before needing to empty. Litter-Robot – Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Extra‑Durable Globe Interior

The LR4’s inner globe liner is reinforced to resist scratching and wear — ideal for households with aggressive diggers. This durability upgrade helps the machine last longer with consistent performance. Litter-Robot – Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Smaller Footprint & Improved Shape

The overall body of the LR4 is slightly narrower and more refined, helping it fit better into tight spaces or modern home layouts. Petspotr

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3. Performance & Cleaning Efficiency

Both models use a rotating globe to sift clumped litter and deposit waste into a drawer. However, the LR4 goes further in optimizing the process:

• Dual‑Direction Rotation: Some reports suggest the LR4 alternates rotation directions, preventing litter compaction and enhancing clump separation. Alibaba
• Improved Sifting Screens: The LR4’s refined sifting components capture more clumps with less dust and less leftover waste. Catpeek
• Consistent Clean Cycles: Sensors in the LR4 improve the timing and reliability of cleaning cycles, reducing missed clumps. Forbes

While both units clean effectively, the LR4’s newer mechanisms and sensor systems give it the edge in long‑term performance.

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4. Smart Features & Connectivity

Perhaps the most striking difference between the two models is connectivity:

Litter‑Robot 4

• Connects via Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth.
• Supports the Whisker app for remote monitoring.
• Sends notifications when the waste drawer is full or litter levels are low.
• Tracks litter box usage and cat weight trends (helpful for health monitoring). Catpeek

Litter‑Robot 3 (Connect)

• Limited smart features without additional modules.
• No sophisticated app tracking or advanced notifications built‑in. Forbes

For tech‑savvy cat owners or those who travel often, the LR4’s improved connectivity is a major advantage.

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5. Odor Control & Hygiene

Odor control is critical for any litter box — especially in small homes or for multi‑cat households.

LR4 Advantages

• Better sealed waste drawer with carbon filter and optional OdorTrap packs.
• Deeper drawer helps contain smell longer and prevents leakage. Forbes+1

LR3 Performance

• Solid odor control for a self‑cleaning unit, but not as effective as the sealed system in the LR4.
• May show mild smell if not emptied routinely. Forbes

For strong odor suppression, the LR4 is significantly better.

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6. Noise & Cat Comfort

Noise affects both owners and pets:

• Litter‑Robot 4: Uses updated motor and quieter mechanisms — reported to be significantly quieter during cycles, reducing stress for sensitive cats. Forbes
• Litter‑Robot 3: Slightly louder, with a more noticeable sifting sound. Forbes

Cats that are skittish or noise‑sensitive tend to prefer the smoother, quieter LR4.

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7. Installation & Maintenance

Both models require similar installation — plug in, add litter, and power on. Differences include:

• LR4: App guidance simplifies setup and alerts for maintenance.
• LR3: Simpler control panel with less reliance on connectivity. Catpeek

Deep cleaning procedures (disassembling the globe and thorough washing) take effort in either model, but users find the LR4’s detachable parts slightly easier to manage. Catpeek

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8. Price & Value Comparison

• Litter‑Robot 3 Connect: Generally retails around $499–$550. Forbes
• Litter‑Robot 4: Premium model around $699, sometimes bundled with accessories. Forbes

That’s about a $150–$200 difference — which is justified for many by the LR4’s modern design, enhanced odor control, smarter sensors, and connectivity. Forbes

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9. Who Should Buy Which Model?

Choose Litter‑Robot 4 if:

✅ You want the latest smart features and app tracking
✅ You have multiple cats at home
✅ You prioritize quiet cycles and superior odor control
✅ You want easier access for large or senior cats
✅ You plan to use it long‑term and appreciate modern tech

Choose Litter‑Robot 3 if:

✔ You want reliable automatic cleaning at a lower price
✔ You don’t need advanced connectivity
✔ You prefer simpler tech with fewer integrations
✔ Your cat is comfortable with standard entry and noise levels

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10. What Real Owners Say

The online cat owner community offers mixed—but largely positive—feedback:

✔ Many users say the LR4 feels “night and day” quieter and more efficient than the 3, especially in multi‑cat setups. Reddit
✔ Some early LR4 units had firmware glitches, but updates resolved many issues over time. Reddit
✔ A few owners still prefer the simplicity and reliability of the LR3. Reddit

User experiences demonstrate that both models have loyal fans — but the LR4 tends to win where comfort and smart features matter most.

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11. Pros & Cons Summary

Feature	Litter‑Robot 4	Litter‑Robot 3
Entry Size	Larger & easier	Standard
Odor Control	Improved	Good
Noise Level	Quieter	Louder
Connectivity	Advanced (App)	Basic
Waste Drawer	Larger & more efficient	Smaller
Price	Higher	Lower
Best for Multi Cats	Excellent	Good
Best for Budget	Still works	Better choice

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12. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Which model is better for multi‑cat households?

The Litter‑Robot 4 handles waste more efficiently, has a larger drawer, and performs better with frequent use, making it superior for multiple cats. Forbes

Q2. Is the LR4 significantly louder than the LR3?

No — in fact, the LR4 is quieter during cleaning cycles, which many owners consider a major upgrade. Forbes

Q3. Do both models connect to Wi‑Fi?

Only the LR4 features built‑in smart connectivity with the app. The LR3 Connect lacks advanced tracking features. Forbes

Q4. Is the wider entryway useful?

Yes — it improves comfort for larger, older, or skittish cats and encourages consistent use. Litter-Robot – Self-Cleaning Litter Box

Q5. Are replacement parts interchangeable?

Some components differ between models, so always check compatibility before buying. (Model years vary.) Petspotr

Q6. How often do you empty the waste drawer?

For one cat, weekly. With multiple cats, 2–3 times per week is common — depending on usage. Forbes

Q7. Is the LR3 still worth buying in 2025?

Yes — if you want solid automatic cleaning without paying for advanced features, it remains a strong value choice. Forbes

Q8. Can either model track cat health?

Only the LR4’s app offers weight and activity tracking which can help detect health changes, though it isn’t a substitute for veterinary care. Catpeek

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13. Final Verdict

When weighing Litter‑Robot 4 vs Litter‑Robot 3 in 2025, the choice depends on your priorities:

✔ If you want best‑in‑class performance, smarter features, quieter operation, and excellent odor control, the Litter‑Robot 4 justifies its higher price. Forbes

✔ If you prefer solid automatic cleaning at a lower cost and don’t need smart connectivity, the Litter‑Robot 3 remains a dependable option that continues to satisfy cat owners. Forbes

For most cat parents who value convenience, hygiene, and long‑term reliability — and especially those with more than one cat — the Litter‑Robot 4 is worth the investment in 2025.