Finding the perfect vacuum cleaner that fits your lifestyle and budget can be difficult.
That's why at Post Wanted, we're always testing out the latest products to let you know exactly how they can help you. Recently, our Commerce Editorial Director, Barrett Wirtz, tested the Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty system firsthand. This got us thinking.
Why not test it side-by-side with one of the most hyped cordless stick vacuums on the market, the Dyson V15 Detect, to see how much it actually sucks compared to the competition?
Both cordless vacuums are easy to charge and can pick up all types of hair without tangles, but we've found a clear winner. Keep reading to find out.
Related: We tested the best cordless vacuum cleaners of 2024 – here are our top picks
Shark vs Dyson: first impression
The Shark PowerDetect has a DuoClean Detect nozzle that does a great job of picking up debris from both directions, instead of just pushing it out when reversing like most other vacuums. Equipped with dirt detection technology and a 2x brush roll system that won't tangle with pet or human hair, it's compatible with all floor types.
Shark even claims to offer “the best dirt cleaning of any cordless vacuum.” Additionally, the unique dirt detection feature automatically adjusts the varying suction power based on dirt size.
Dyson is a strong competitor with its Fluffy Optic cleaner head designed to remove fine dust and an interestingly designed hair screw tool that sucks up long hair without tangles, but at a significantly higher price. More than $300 MSRP to be exact.
And for what Shark has to offer, I'm scratching my head as to why the prices are so high.
Shark vs Dyson: performance and experience
“Stain detection is like a vacuum cleaner that adjusts its output depending on how dirty the floor is,” Wirtz says. “Don't forget the auto-empty dock, which saves you the hassle of emptying the canister.”
Yes, it has an Auto-Empty docking station that charges and empties automatically, something the Dyson V15 Detect model doesn't have.
Instead, Dyson charges using a docking station, but only if you screw it into the wall yourself near an electrical outlet. You can't magically transfer dirt to the canister, and you'll never empty it. So, for people who suffer from allergies, this is a great way to prevent sniffles. Because the auto-empty feature blocks over 99.97% of dust and allergens, according to Shark testing.
It's often difficult to find a cordless vacuum cleaner suitable for everyday cleaning. The Shark can last up to 70 minutes on a single charge, while the Dyson can last up to 60 minutes. That's only 10 minutes of extra time, but it can feel like an eternity to the main job of a cleaning fanatic when the vacuum starts to malfunction when you're almost done cleaning.
If you're struggling in hard-to-reach areas like under the couch or behind a counter, Shark offers a MultiFLEX arm that easily bends forward and backward, allowing you to tackle the trickiest spots easily and efficiently.
The only complaint I have is that the MultiFLEX arm requires a bit of force to lock into place, which caused some initial frustration. If you're concerned about that, we recommend Dyson's simple cordless stick model. However, keep in mind that either the MultiFLEX arm is bent or you are bent.
Shark vs. Dyson: Final verdict
Overall, we found the Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty System to be a good value (at a low price). Conveniently, it's already $100 off Dyson's sale price of $399.99. We highly recommend jumping on this sale before it ends because this vacuum pack is worth its weight in gold (preferably dollars).
Strong Points:
- Cost-effective in terms of performance
- Captures even invisible trash
- Up to 70 minutes of use on a single charge
- PowerDetect features dirt detection technology and works on all floor types with a 2x brush roll system.
- The automatic emptying dock retains fine dust, debris, allergens, and odors for up to 45 days after each cleaning.
Cons:
- Emptying the base/dock is not easy. You may want to consult the manual or be prepared for some confusion on your first try.
What's inside the box? Vacuum cleaner, 8 inch duster crevice tool, pet multi-tool, odor neutralization pack, single accessory dock
When you buy directly from Shark, we offer a 60-day money-back guarantee, a 5-year exclusive warranty, and free shipping.
Strong Points:
- Most Award Winning Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Brand
- Thoroughly absorbs invisible dust
- Automatically adjusts suction power according to floor type and dust level
- Provides real-time feedback about the particles being captured on the LCD screen. This is a great feature that Shark doesn't have.
Cons:
- more expensive than a shark
- Lasts only 60 minutes on a single charge
What's inside the box? Vacuum cleaners, Fluffy Optic cleaner heads, Digital Motorbar cleaner heads, hair screw tools, combination tools, dusting and crevice tools, chargers, docking stations
When you buy directly from Dyson, we offer a 30-day money-back guarantee, 2-year warranty, price match promise, and free shipping. If you are an Amazon Prime member, you will receive free shipping within 2 days.
For more than 200 years, the New York Post has been America's go-to source for bold news, compelling stories, in-depth reporting and, now, insightful shopping guides. We're more than just in-depth reporters. We scour tons of information, test and compare products, consult experts on topics we don't already have specialized training in, and provide useful, realistic product recommendations based on extensive, hands-on analysis. Provide recommendations. . Here at The Post, we're known for our fierce honesty. We clearly label our partnership content and whether we receive anything from an affiliate link, so you always know where we stand. We update our content regularly to reflect current research and expert advice, provide context (and wit), and make sure your links work. Please note that sales may expire and all prices are subject to change.
