Shark is without a doubt one of the top manufacturers of home appliances and this article is going shed some light on the best Shark vacuum cleaners. With so many models available, all of them really great, it hasn’t been easy to decide which Shark vacuums are truly the best.
We’ve taken special care to look at what people want from a high-quality vacuum. For some, it’s all about the price and the value that you’re getting. For others, it’s about versatility. Perhaps you might want the best Shark vacuum for pets, allergies, or deep pile carpets. Some of the Shark models are the best for hard floors. Then there are those who want the best of the best – a vacuum that ticks all the boxes and offers all the features that one would hope to find in any of the world’s top vacuums. We know that everyone has different needs.
Top Rated Shark Models Reviewed
With all of this in mind, we’ve reviewed 12 great products from the Shark line of amazing vacuum cleaners. Among these, you’re going to find the perfect vacuum for your needs. Listed below are our recommendations for the top rated Shark vacuums this year.
1. Shark AZ2002 Vertex DuoClean PowerFins Upright Vacuum
The new Vertex AZ2002 is Shark’s top-of-the-line vacuum, offering massive amounts of power and best pet hair performance of any vacuum on the market. However, that performance makes this vacuum heavy and difficult to move.
The Vertex comes with an updated version of their dual roller system. The first roller’s soft bristles lifts dirt out of carpet, while the second roller uses rubber paddles to pick up any remaining dirt and debris. This head is effective on everything fine dust to cereal. It’s also keeps hair from wrap around the rollers better than any other vacuum available, making it a great choice for removing pet hair.
The 11.8 amp motor makes this one of the most powerful models you can buy. However, that power causes some problems. At 16.4 lbs, this Shark vacuum can be hard to move. Lift-away mode lets you separate the motor pod from the rest of the vacuum, letting you slide the head under and around furniture. Without the pod’s weight, the vacuum’s powerful suction pulls the head forward. Fighting back against this suction can get tiring.
Unlike most consumer vacuums, the AZ2002’s HEPA filtration is effective because there aren’t any leaks in the vacuum body that lets dust escape. As measured by the ASTM F1977 test for debris filtration, the Vertex removes 99.9% of dust and allergens.
The Vertex comes with a dusting brush, a crevice tool and a self-cleaning pet power brush. The main vacuum head can be removed in lift-away mode, letting you carry the pod while cleaning stairs and high places with the wand.
This Shark vacuum comes with a 5 year warranty.
Overall, this is one of the best performing vacuums you can buy. It works great on every surface, picks up every type of debris, doesn’t get clogged with pet hair, and effectively removes allergens. However, you should look elsewhere if you need something that’s easy to move around.
2. Shark APEX DuoClean Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap AZ1002
This is one of the most expensive vacuum cleaners in the Shark line up. It sort of goes without saying then, that this must be the best Shark vacuum. It is certainly the most powerful and is packed with every conceivable bit of technology that Shark has to offer. So, by paying a little extra, you’re getting a machine that is arguably one of the best. Not just from Shark, but from any of the premier Vacuum cleaner brands.
Few vacuum cleaners deliver the kind of power that this one does – a whopping 1350 watts of it.
You’ll be hard pressed to find a better vacuum for sucking up the most stubborn dirt from deep down in your carpet fibers. Combine this with the DuoClean, dual brush roll system, and you have the very best for every type of floor. Add to this, the Active Glide Technology and you have a vacuum that is perfectly easy to use as you move from carpet to hard floors.
The list of technological marvels just goes on and on. Like I said, this machine has the very best in every department. It has the Lift Away system, allowing you to use it as a canister or an upright vacuum. The best air filtration is achieved using the Complete Seal anti-allergen and HEPA filters. Zero-M technology ensures that hair wrap on the brush roll will be a thing of the past.
Now for the cherry on the top. Even though this is just about the most powerful vacuum cleaner that you can find, it is one of the quietest. This is thanks to Shark’s advanced noise reduction technology. Not only does this vacuum have LED lights on the floor nozzle, but also on the handle. You will, no doubt, expect the best Shark accessories when buying such an expensive vacuum. Here too, you won’t be disappointed. It has the obvious crevice tool, then it has the Pet Multi-Tool that does all your dusting and basic upholstery cleaning in one handy accessory. To top it all off, you also get the motorized Deep Cleaning Pet tool that takes care of pet hair and all the grime that your pets might trample into your carpets and furniture.
So, if you’re going to be hauling out the extra cash for the very best shark vacuum, you want to be sure that you’re getting a lot for your money. I think it’s clear from the endless list of features and advanced technology, that this is precisely what you’re getting from the Shark AZ1002. Not to mention heaps of power and superb build quality.
3. Shark Navigator with Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap Technology ZU561
The perfect solution for large homes in a lightweight package, is what may appeal most about the Shark Navigator ZU561. It has the versatility of lift away technology and one of the best HEPA air filtration systems of any Shark vacuum.
The powerful 800W motor is another bonus that comes with this model. It makes light work of deep cleaning your carpets, without huge electricity bills. It transitions perfectly to your hard floors too. Even though the Shark ZU561 is one of the best for cleaning large areas with its mighty 2.2 quart dust cup, it’s refreshingly light and easy to use.
It weighs a mere 13.4 pounds, not bad for such a big machine. With Shark lift away technology, it can be used as a canister vacuum for those areas where a large upright vacuum just isn’t practical.
The air filtration system is perfect for the most sensitive of allergen sufferers. The combination of Complete Seal filtration and top grade HEPA filters provides clean, allergen-free air throughout the home. They’ve also incorporated the Zero-M anti-hair wrap system into this model. This means you will never be cleaning hair from the brush roll again, the Shark does this automatically as it cleans.
The large capacity and economical electric motor are, to my mind, the best attributes to this Shark vacuum. Then it shares some of the great technology that you’ll find on so many of the best Shark vacuums, like the Lift Away canister, fantastic air filtration, and super-convenient anti-hair wrap system.
4. Shark HZ2002 Vertex Corded Stick Vacuum
The term best Shark vacuum has taken on a new meaning with the introduction of Vertex, high-efficiency suction, and the incredible PowerFin brush roll. The HZ2002 Vertex is undoubtedly the best stick vacuum in the Shark lineup.
By now, most of us are familiar with the Shark DuoClean system, one of the best brush rolls for both hard floors and carpets. The Shark engineers have upped the ante in developing PowerFin technology. The old hard bristle brush has been replaced by flexible fins that maintain constant contact with the floor and cover every inch, leaving no trace of dirt behind.
Another great improvement is Vertex technology. This makes the HZ2002 the best Shark stick vacuum in terms of suction power, whilst using no more electricity. It is also incredibly lightweight, at only 9-pounds.
Many of the Shark vacuum features have remained unchanged, like the powerful LED lights on the cleaning head. The HZ2002 Vertex stick vacuum converts into handheld machine quickly and includes the much-loved Power Pet Brush. Like the DuoClean brush roll, the pet brush is also self-cleaning. The Shark anti-hair wrap system is another thing I have come to admire. The dust cup is wonderfully convenient for a vacuum this compact, it holds a mighty impressive 0.32 quarts.
There are those who might feel the Shark HZ2002 is a bit expensive and that the old technology is good enough. Though no one can deny, this is certainly the best Shark vacuum amongst the range of lightweight stick models. It’s stupendously powerful and the PowerFin brush works like magic.
5. Shark Rocket with Zero-M Anti-Hair Wrap Technology (ZS351)
If you’re looking for the best Shark stick vacuum, you’ve found it. The Shark Rocket (ZS351) has what it takes to handle a large home with pets. You have all the advantages of a versatile, lightweight stick vacuum without the restrictions of a small dust cup and you have the ability to clean any type of floor with perfect ease.
You won’t be rushing off to empty the dust cup too often, it holds a mighty capacity of 0.74 quarts. The power cord is also longer than most – 30 Ft. This makes the Shark ZS351 way better than most stick Vacuums when it comes to cleaning a large area. It has the advantage of swivel steering.
So you can maneuver around furniture and other obstacles. The inclusion of LED lights on the cleaning nozzle is another great feature, allowing to see clearly what you’re doing in those dark corners and under furniture.
It’s not too heavy (9.3 LBS.) and converts into a handheld vacuum with a click and a press. The single bristle brush roll may not be as exceptional as the Shark DuoClean system. None the less, it does a great job on both hard floors and carpets and will transition between the two effortlessly. Keeping the brush roll clean and hair-free couldn’t be easier. The Zero-M anti-hair wrap feature is a wonderful system that removes the hair from the brush roll, without you having to do a thing.
For a large busy home, with kids and pets, this Shark vacuum is one of the few that can match up to the more conventional upright vacuums. At the same time, you have the advantage of a compact, lightweight stick vacuum that converts into a handheld within a matter of seconds. A real winner when it comes to effortless and versatile cleaning options.
6. Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum NV752
Whilst being one of the cheaper options from Shark, the Rotator Powered Lift-Away NV752 is designed with the pet owner in mind. The other two more expensive models are also just as great for homes with pets. I’d say that this model is really the best budget pet vacuum.
I think the main reason why this model is quite a lot cheaper is that it doesn’t make use of DuoClean technology. While it has a really good roller brush, the Shark Rotator TruePet is probably better suited to cleaning hard floors and carpets that don’t have a particularly deep pile.
In fact, the Hard Floor Hero attachment makes this one of the best vacuums for hard floors. It certainly has the power do the job and this Shark vacuum will plow through kitty litter and other large debris with ease. It also has the advantage of the Lift-Away design, so it easily converts into a canister vacuum. It has a great cleaning head with LED headlights and is almost as good as the best Shark models for cleaning under furniture.
Pet owners looking for an affordable vacuum cleaner, will be delighted with this Shark model. It has the Pet multi-tool and the TruePet motorized brush, so it will get rid of pet hair and dirt as easily as any of the best pet vacuums. It also has the same fantastic Anti-Allergen complete seal air filtration system and HEPA filters as the high-end Shark vacuums. This means that pet odors in the home will be a thing of the past and you’ll have just about the purest air in your home.
The NV752 Shark vacuum has a very reasonable weight of 15.4-pounds and a dust cup that compares well to any of the best (1.5 dry quarts). With this large dust cup and 30FT power cord, this vacuum is perfectly suitable for cleaning large homes.
Anyone looking for one the best pet vacuums at a very reasonable price should jump at the opportunity to own this amazing cleaning machine. When compared to the more expensive Shark vacuums, it’s not really lacking – except maybe for the DuoClean technology. It’s also one of the best for hard floors and comes with an amazing VIP Lifetime Warranty.
7. Shark IONFlex 2X DuoClean Cordless Ultra-Light Vacuum IF251
There are plenty of people who prefer the convenience of a cordless vacuum. Regardless of the brand, there’s always an extra cost that comes with battery power. The technology is more expensive and the batteries also add to the cost. Despite the price, the advantages of cordless machines are self-evident – it gives you a lot of versatility. So no review of the best Shark vacuums can be complete without including a cordless vacuum. The Shark IONFlex 2X DuoClean IF251 cordless vacuum is not only one of the best, but it comes packed with a bunch of value-added items.
The first of these has to be the extra battery and charging dock that you get with your purchase. An extra battery is really important when using a cordless vacuum, especially if you have a large home. Two batteries means twice the working time and one battery can be charging while the other is in use. Apart from this bonus extra, the IONFlex has the features to match any of the best Shark vacuums, including the DuoClean brush roll set up.
When they say ultra-light, they’re not joking, this stick vacuum weighs only 3.8-pounds. It also converts into a cordless hand vacuum without any complicated procedures. It’s ideal for cleaning stairs, hard to reach areas and is perfect for cleaning the interior of your car. Shark has an amazing feature they call MultiFlex technology which makes this one of the most versatile stick vacuums ever made. The upright pipe (stick) is flexible, you can bend it at an angle to give you all the reach you need to clean under furniture. This pipe is also able to bend over completely (180-degrees). This reduces its height by half for easy compact storage.
It has anti-allergen complete seal technology and washable foam filters. As with most of the best Shark vacuums, it also has LED headlights. One of the drawbacks of any lightweight stick vacuum is that they always have a small dust cup, this is part of what makes them so compact. In this regard, the Shark IF251 is no different from the rest, the dust cup holds only 0.3 dry quarts.
Apart from the extra battery and a charging dock, you also get an anti-allergen dust brush, pet multi-tool, and a duster crevice tool as part of your package. You’re getting a good selection of useful extras with this vacuum cleaner.
This is a superb cordless stick vacuum and the extra battery and charging dock make it quite a bargain. It’s a great deal for one of the best cordless vacuums. One of the great things about Shark vacuums is the incredible warranty that they offer. While this is not the best warranty from Shark, it still beats most others – especially cordless machines that usually have a shorter warranty period. The DuoClean IF251 cordless Shark vacuum comes with a 5-year warranty.
8. Shark Rocket HV292 Hand Vac
A handheld vacuum is always good to have around, they’re the best for cleaning your car’s interior and make cleaning your upholstery as easy as pie. For quick cleanups, they’re super convenient. For a busy home with kids and pets, the Shark Rocket HV292 is a must-have item.
Unlike cordless handheld vacuums that can be a bit pricey, the Shark Rocket is really cheap. The fact that it has a decent length 15Ft cord, means that aren’t too limited. What’s great about this little machine is that you get all the attachments that really want when using a handheld vacuum.
The best of these has to be the True Pet motorized brush for quickly and effortlessly removing pet hair. It also has an extended hose, which makes it all the more versatile.
The dust cup is larger than most handheld vacuums and it has washable filters. You won’t have to replace these and this saves on your running costs. You want a handheld vacuum to be as light as possible and this one certainly is. It weighs only 3.7-pounds. With a 400W motor, it’s also more powerful than most handheld vacuum cleaners and it never loses suction.
Cheap enough to buy as a standby vacuum to have around the home, the Shark Rocket HV292 is one the best deals you could hope for. It’s on the lower end of the price scale which means it also carries the Euro-Star 1-year warranty.
9. Shark DuoClean Rocket Corded Ultralight Stick Vacuum HV382
The Shark Rocket range of vacuums are lightweight, compact, corded stick vacuums. In the Rocket series, the DuoClean HV382 is best. It’s the only one in this series to use Shark’s amazing DuoClean technology. In most respects, it matches the cordless IF251 model. Though, being a corded stick vacuum, it costs substantially less and doesn’t have the versatility of MultiFlex technology. Being the best corded Shark stick vacuum, it converts to a hand vacuum in an instant. Though there are lighter stick vacuums available, I don’t think that anyone will consider this on to be heavy – it weighs 9.9-pounds.
One great advantage of this Shark vacuum is that it has a much larger (0.91 dry quarts) dust cup than most other lightweight stick vacuums.
It has most of the top features and accessories that we’ve come to expect from the best Shark vacuums. These include LED headlights, both on the floor nozzle and the hand vacuum, as well as the versatile pet multi-tool. Of course, you’ll also get the duster crevice tool, which is standard for all Shark Vacuum cleaners.
You’re getting quite a lot of vacuum cleaner for not too much money with this one. The DuoClean technology that’s included, definitely makes this the best corded stick vacuum from the Shark brand and it comes with their industry leading VIP warranty.
10. Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV501
Among the more affordable vacuum cleaners that still offers some of the best features that Shark has to offer, the Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away (NV501), certainly deserves a mention. You’re getting fantastic quality, excellent versatility, and a host of brilliant features.
So it doesn’t include DuoClean brush rolls, but with the inclusion of the Premium Pet Power Brush, it’s up there with the best Shark pet hair vacuums. It also has perfect air filtration capabilities thanks to the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal system and HEPA filters.
Swivel steering and powerful LED headlights help elevate this Shark vacuum to a level that compares with the best. As with all the Lift-Away models, the Shark Professional NV501 converts to a canister vacuum with the simple touch of a button, giving you the best of both an upright and canister vacuum cleaner.
At 15.5-pounds, I wouldn’t call this a light machine. Though I wouldn’t call it particularly heavy either. All the Lift-Away Shark vacuums are a little on the heavy side, this is because you’re getting a powerful upright vacuum and a canister vacuum in one versatile machine. Of course, this also means that you get the extra-large dust cup.
A great vacuum for large homes and one of the best at cleaning up after pets, the NV501 Shark vacuum gives you just about the best value for money when compared to any vacuum cleaner with similar features and capabilities. Because you’re backed by the Shark brand, you can expect the best after-sales service and it has a 5-year warranty.
11. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E
Buying a vacuum cleaner on a budget can be a daunting prospect. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional (NV356E) is one vacuum that can ease the mind of the penny-wise buyer. Probably the best budget Shark vacuum cleaner, you have no need to worry about quality, you have the backing of a premier brand.
Naturally, you can’t expect all the high-end features that you’d get on the more expensive models, but the NV356E still has some impressive specs.
Lacking the DuoClean technology puts this one at a slight disadvantage when it comes to moving from hard floors to plush carpets. None the less, this Shark vacuum is one of the best for hard floors, it includes the Hard Floor Hero attachment. It’s also great for area rugs and low pile carpets.
The Shark Navigator NV356E forms part of the Lift-Away range, so you get the versatility of a canister and upright vacuum with an effortless changeover between the two modes of operation. It also includes the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal design with HEPA filters which is as good as it gets. The Pet Power Brush will take care of any pet hair on your upholstery and other areas where pets love to curl up.
At 15.5-pounds it’s on the heavier side of things, even when compared to other Lift-Away models. You won’t be lugging too much weight when using it as a canister vacuum though, in this mode, it weighs only 8.4-pounds. When using it as an upright vacuum you have the added maneuverability that comes with swivel steering and it has LED headlights.
It’s nice to see that you won’t have to dig too deep into your pockets to own one of the best Shark Vacuum cleaners. The Shark Navigator NV356E offers a lot of high-end features, without sending the price through the roof. If you have mostly hard floors, you really won’t be compromising by choosing this amazing Shark vacuum cleaner. Though the Euro-Pro warranty is pretty standard (1-year).
13. Shark DuoClean Powered Lift-Away NV803
The Shark DuoClean Powered Lift-Away (NV803) shares many common traits with the Apex AX951 model. It’s a little cheaper and, therefore, doesn’t have all the features of the Shark Apex. So, for few a few dollars less, you’re getting the same basic Shark vacuum, without all the bells and whistles. To keep things simple, I’m going to mention what similar features are included in this model and then mention what you won’t get when comparing the Shark NV803 to the AX951. You’ll get the same DuoClean technology that’s common to many Shark vacuum cleaners. You also get the Complete Seal anti-allergen system with HEPA filters, this is also one of the best vacuums for people with allergies.
It has swivel steering, LED headlights and all the fantastic accessories that you’ll get with the more expensive model (under appliance wand, pet multi-tool, pet power brush, and the duster crevice tool), you’ll also get the handy bag for storing these accessories. The canister is detachable, so you have the same versatility for cleaning hard to reach areas. As you can see, there isn’t too much compromise when choosing the cheaper model.
Though there are a few features and technological advancements that you won’t find on the Shark DuoClean Powered Lift-Away NV803. This model doesn’t make use of Sharks noise reduction technology. It also doesn’t have the Active-Glide technology, so it’s going to move more like other vacuum cleaners – on deep pile carpets, the more expensive model is going to make your life easier. The dust cup is quite a bit smaller (0.9 dry quarts), not the best for large homes. On the plus side, this model is lighter, weighing only 14.5-pounds and has the same long 30FT power cord.
So if you’d prefer to pay a little less and forego some of the luxuries of the Shark AX951, the NV803 Shark vacuum is a fantastic deal. In the end, you’re getting the same cleaning power with DuoClean technology and excellent air filtration. Even though this is a cheaper model, there’s no compromising on quality and the Shark DuoClean Powered Lift-Away NV803 also has a 7-year warranty.
13. Shark DuoClean Upright Vacuum NV771
The Shark DuoClean (NV771) Upright Vacuum is the best for almost any situation. It’s probably the best Shark Vacuum for a home with both hard floors and carpets, perfect for hardwood floors. It’s one of the best Shark vacuums for pets and allergies. To top it all off, it is an incredibly versatile vacuum cleaner that can adapt easily to clean every corner of the home from floor to ceiling.
DuoClean technology means two brush rolls. There’s no compromise if you need to deep clean carpets, lift heavy debris from hard floors, or gently polish your treasured hardwood floors.
The bristle brush is perfectly suited for carpets of every description, and the soft brush roll is perfect for lifting heavy debris, like kitty litter from your hard floors and polish it to a perfect shine.
Lift away technology enables the canister to be removed with perfect ease. As a canister vacuum, it makes vacuuming curtains, all the way to the ceiling a breeze. As an upright vacuum it’s just as versatile with swivel steering and LED lights.
If pets and allergens are a concern in your home, the Shark DuoClean NV771 is sure to impress. The complete seal Anti-Allergen filtration system is one of the best for allergens and keeping pet irritants at bay. The Pet Multi-Tool will take care of that pet hair on your furniture.
The DuoClean Shark Vacuum offers the best of all worlds. It doubles up as canister vacuum, has the versatile DuoClean technology, and takes care of allergens and pet hair. All this in an elegant, and easy to use machine. You really couldn’t ask for more.
Why Choose a Shark Vacuum Cleaner?
From the outset when SharkNinja began manufacturing quality house-care products at their production facility in Montreal, Canada, they have endeavored to produce the highest quality products with world-leading innovation.
Today, the company is based in Needham, Massachusetts - not too far from Boston. Along with incredible growth, has come increased product development. All this, whilst remaining true to their basic philosophy of providing the best products and customer service. You can ask anyone who owns a Shark product, they look after you.
When you look at the incredible warranty that you get on most of the best Shark vacuums, you can be sure that you’re getting one of the best in the world. Some of their premier vacuums come with a VIP lifetime warranty – easily the best in the industry.
There are quite a number of great brands when it comes to vacuums and we all have our preferences. However, no one can dispute that Shark is right up there with the best of them and often at a price that beats all the others in their class. So the Shark vacuums reviewed are definitely worth the money you pay.
Shark DuoClean Technology
Because this revolutionary technology is common to many of the latest Shark vacuums, it would be a good idea to discuss it before heading into our review of the top Shark vacuums of today.
Many vacuums use dual brush rolls, a soft one for hard floors and a bristle brush roll for carpets. So while the basic idea is not unique to Shark, they have put some effort it making their DuoClean system one of the best. The soft brush roll at the front pulls up large debris easily and removes all the dust from hard floors, leaving a gleaming polished finish. Because there’s no front wall, this soft brush roll can glide over bigger objects without a problem and these will be scooped away effortlessly. You won’t be moving back and forth all the time.
The bristle brush is situated directly behind the soft brush roll and can be removed for cleaning. Though, because the soft brush roll takes care of much of the solid objects, you won’t be cleaning the bristle brush that often. The strong bristles reach deep into the carpet fibers, removing really stubborn dirt and stains.
While no one can say which vacuum has the best brush roll system, the Shark DuoClean system has proven to be a huge success and people love it. It’s great for hard floors, deep pile carpets and everything in between. It’s also excellent for removing pet hair, kitty litter all the mess left by kids in the busy family home. It really is remarkable.
I have a shark vacuum, nv 355 31 professional navigator lift away. It does wonderful cleaning the carpet and hard wood floors… except, it shocks me constantly!!! I purchased the sweeper 6 months ago and used it five times. My husband thought I was joking until he heard it zapping me. He was also zapped! I called shark with this concern. I was told to wear rubber shoes, apply lotion to my hands and arms and also wear rubber gloves…just to run my sweeper! I looked for recalls, none! Thank goodness either one of us have a pacemaker!!! The store I purchased it from said no recall..no exchange!!!! Have an answer????
I have the exact problem with my Shark NV 355 31 vacuum. I constantly get shocked while using it. I checked online and found Shark recalled thousands of vacuums that have the same type of metal shaft that this vacuum has back in 2015 due to customer complaints of being shocked while using the vacuums. I haven’t called Shark yet but find the account of your call to Shark surprising as it was noted in online write-ups during the 2015 recall that Shark was very concerned about the safety of their product and the possibility of anyone being injured by them. This appears to be an obvious manufacturing flaw. I’m interested in seeing what Shark has to say when I give them a call.
why don’t you make the bagless canisters? the others are too heavy for me to life even the stick kind.
I agree with you Wendy, I, am currently trying to find the upright that cones with the canister conversion…from an infomercial a while back..because of lugging the lift away around, is just too much. Also my dog doesn’t like uprights for some reason…I hope someone responds to one of us.!