The Roborovski hamster is distinguished from the Djungarian hamster ("Phodopus sungorus") and Campbell's dwarf hamster ("Phodopus campbelli") due to its smaller size, sandy coloration of fur and its lack of a dorsal stripe. When observed from behind, the neurocranium is rounded and does not appear to be as rectangular as "Phodopus campbelli" and "Phodopus sungorus". The cusps of the lower molars are directly opposite and not alternate, as seen in other members of the genus, and the incisive foramen of the Roborovski hamster is greater than in length and is shorter than the length of the upper tooth row, which is uncharacteristic of the other two members of the genus.