Shark Stratos Review: 3 Models Tested & Compared

The Shark Stratos is a new line of vacuum cleaners launched in 2022. All models have strong suction, self-cleaning brushes, and special tools for removing pet hair. You’ll also get odor-neutralizing cartridges, anti-allergen dust brushes, and other accessories for hassle-free cleaning. 

Shark’s latest vacuum cleaner range includes several models, depending on the country. U.S. consumers can opt for cordless stick vacuums, corded stick vacuums, or upright vacuums.

With that in mind, check out our Shark Stratos review to see how these models compare in terms of design, functionality, and performance. 

Table of Contents

• 🧪 Performance
• 👍 Usability
• 🧬 Design
• 📰 Specifications
• 🥇 Which is Best?

🧪 Performance

All three vacuums—the Shark Stratos Corded, the Stratos Cordless, and the Stratos Upright with TruePet upgrade—scored over 96% in our tests, meaning they removed most of the debris. 

However, a vacuum’s performance is multifaceted. You need to consider the suction power, battery life, and other aspects, not just what’s left behind after cleaning the floor. 

For this reason, we focus on three main areas in our tests:

• Cleaning Performance: A vacuum’s ability to remove different types of debris
• Motor Performance: Its maximum suction power
• Run Time Performance: Its average battery life 

Moving forward, let’s see how these Shark vacuums performed in our tests.

Cleaning Performance

WINNER: Shark Stratos Upright

Our Shark Stratos review is based on 12 different tests on three types of floors, as shown below:

Model	Overall	Hardwoods	Low Carpet	High Carpet
Shark Stratos Corded	96.0%	92.9%	96.2%	99.0%
Shark Stratos Upright	99.4%	99.5%	99.3%	98.3%
Shark Stratos Cordless	96.6%	98.4%	96.3%	95.3%

Additionally, we test each vacuum against four types of debris, including:

• Dry cereal
• Rice
• Kitty litter
• Granulated sugar 

The Shark Stratos Upright outperformed the other two vacuums, but the difference was negligible. All three models did a great job at removing small and large particles, from kitty litter to rice. 

Pet Hair & Long Hair Tests 

This line of vacuum cleaners is aimed at pet owners, featuring various tools and accessories for easy cleaning. Therefore, we wanted to see how well they could handle pet hair and long hair. 

Each of the three vacuums removed all hairs from the testing lane without getting tangled. For example, the Stratos Corded Stick vacuum sucked up 100% of the pet hair on our floor with only two passes. 

Overall Cleaning Scores 

Now let’s see the test results for each Stratos vacuum. 

Shark Stratos Corded Vacuum Cleaning Performance 

The Shark Stratos Corded did a fantastic job, especially on high-pile carpets, where it removed 99% of all debris. It struggled a bit with rice and cereal on hard floors, but these issues can be avoided by making more passes. 

We haven’t encountered any issues when vacuuming rice and dry cereal on low- or high-pile carpets. Therefore, the Stratos Corded is definitely capable of removing this debris. 

MORE: Click here to see full cleaning tests of the Shark Stratos Corded. 

Shark Stratos Upright Cleaning Performance

The Stratos Upright removed 98.3% to 99.5% of all debris, depending on the type of floor. Unlike most vacuums, it didn’t struggle with cereal and other large particles. 

We’ve encountered some issues when cleaning up the sugar on high-pile carpets, but everything else went smoothly. 

MORE: Click here to see full cleaning tests of the Shark Stratos Upright. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Vacuum Cleaning Performance

Last, we put the Stratos Cordless to the test. This model is supposed to have the highest power of any Shark cordless vacuum, so we were curious about its performance. 

Based on our test results, we can say it did a great job. It performed slightly better than the Shark Stratos Corded (especially on hard floors), but it struggled with the kitty litter and sugar on high-pile carpets. However, it still removed 100% of the rice and cereal spilled on the carpet.

MORE: Check out our guide to see the full test results for the Shark Stratos Cordless. 

Motor Performance 

WINNER: Tie 

Shark doesn’t specify the suction power of the Stratos vacuum line, but all three models performed similarly in our tests. 

The Stratos Upright and the Stratos Cordless are powered by Shark’s HyperVelocity+ motor, which allows them to remove stubborn dirt and fine dust. The Stratos Corded generates the highest suction power of any stick vacuum from Shark, according to the manufacturer.

Based on our tests, the Stratos Upright has a stronger suction than the other two vacuums. The difference was insignificant, though.

Run Time Performance

WINNER: Shark Stratos Upright & Shark Stratos Corded 

Both the Shark Stratos Upright and the Stratos Corded must be plugged into an electrical outlet for power, offering endless runtime. The Stratos Cordless, on the other hand, can run for over 60 minutes at a time. 

Generally, corded vacuums have a longer lifespan than cordless models, depending on the brand. Plus, they’re more suitable for cleaning large areas—although the cords can tangle and limit your mobility. 

We tested the Shark Stratos Cordless in two power modes to see how long the battery would last. Here are the results:

The Eco mode uses the least power, allowing the vacuum to run for about an hour and 10 minutes on a single charge. The Boost mode generates the most suction, draining the battery faster. 

The Clean Sense IQ mode uses varying suction levels based on the debris volume and type of floor, so the battery life will vary, too. 

TIP: Get an additional battery pack for the Stratos Cordless to extend its runtime by 60 minutes.

🧬 Design

The biggest difference between these Shark vacuums lies in their appearance.

At 17.2 pounds, the Shark Stratos Upright is by far the heaviest of all three vacuums, but it also has the largest dustbin. 

Next is the Stratos Cordless, which weighs 8.9 pounds. Surprisingly, the Stratos Corded vacuum is lighter and sleeker than the cordless version, featuring a super compact design.

Similarities include:

• DuoClean PowerFins HairPro brushroll system
• Self-cleaning brushroll
• Odor Neutralizer technology
• Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
• Easy-empty dust cup
• HEPA filters and washable filters
• Special tools for removing pet hair
• Multiple cleaning modes 
• ON/OFF button

Differences include:

#	Feature	Shark Stratos Corded	Shark Stratos Upright	Shark Stratos Cordless
1	Digital display	Yes	No	Yes
2	Configuration	In-line	Traditional	Traditional
3	Handheld mode	Yes	No	Yes
4	LED lights on the nozzle	Yes	No	Yes
5	MultiFLEX wand	No	Yes	Yes
6	Dustbin capacity	0.79 quarts	1.48 quarts	0.72 quarts
7	Cleaning modes	2	3	3

As you can see, there are quite a few differences between these three Shark vacuums. Here’s why they matter. 

#1. Digital Display

The LED screen on the Shark Stratos Cordless displays the battery life and cleaning modes. 

Similarly, the Stratos Corded Stick vacuum features a digital screen where you can check the cleaning mode used. 

In either case, the digital screen is quite basic compared to that on the Dyson V11 or V12. However, this aspect doesn’t impact a vacuum’s performance or functionality. 

#2. Configuration 

The cleaning head, dust cup, and extension wand on the Shark Stratos Corded are all in a straight line, resulting in a more compact design. 

By comparison, the other two vacuums have a traditional configuration. For example, the Stratos Upright has the dustbin attached to the lower front end of the extension wand. 

#3. Handheld Mode

Both the Stratos Cordless and the Stratos Corded can be used in handheld mode. Simply attach the brushroll or other accessories directly to the vacuum body to clean small debris like cigarette ash, bread crumbs, or coffee grounds. 

Images of each vacuum in handheld mode 

#4. LED Lights on the Nozzle 

As shown below, both the Shark Stratos Corded and the Stratos Cordless have LED lights at the front of the cleaner head. This feature allows them to detect fine dust and other less visible debris, resulting in more efficient cleaning. 

#5. MultiFLEX Wand

The Stratos Cordless has a flexible wand for reaching under furniture and into tight spaces. The wand can bend in multiple directions as needed, or you can fold it over to save space when you’re not using the vacuum. 

A similar tool is the MultiFLEX Under-Appliance Wand, which comes with the Shark Stratos Upright with TruePet upgrade. In this case, we’re talking about a free bonus, not a standard feature. 

#6. Dustbin Capacity

The dustbin on the Shark Stratos Upright is twice the size of the dust cup included with the other two vacuums. 

It’s not exactly sleek, but it can be convenient when cleaning large areas or pet hair. Compared to a smaller dustbin, it requires less frequent emptying and helps maintain optimal suction for longer periods. 

#7. Cleaning Modes 

Both the Shark Stratos Upright and the Stratos Cordless feature three power modes, as shown below:

Shark Stratos Upright	Hardwood	Low-pile carpet	Thick carpet
Stratos Cordless	Clean Sense IQ	Eco mode	Boost mode

By comparison, the Stratos Corded has only two cleaning modes, one for hard floors and one for carpets. This isn’t necessarily an issue, but it would have been nice to have more choices.

Size & Dimensions

The Stratos Upright vacuum is heavier than the other two models but still maintains a sleek look. Plus, it comes with a 30-foot cord for easy maneuverability. 

Also, note that you can bend the extension wand on the Stratos Cordless to 180 degrees, which allows for more compact storage.

Accessories & Parts

The three vacuums have similar accessories, including identical cleaning heads. An exception is the Shark Stratos Upright with TruePet upgrade, which includes eight different tools and some cool freebies. 

Let’s cut to the chase and see what you’ll get with each vacuum:

As you can see, the Stratos Upright has the most attachments that come with the base model of the vacuum. On top of this, it has many more attachments that come with the TruePet upgrade. Here is what is available with that upgrade:

• Self-Cleaning Pet Power Brush (*TruePet upgrade)
• Duster crevice tool (*TruePet upgrade)
• Anti-allergen dust brush (*TruePet upgrade)
• Multi-angle dust brush (*TruePet upgrade)
• 2 Odor-neutralizing cartridges (*TruePet upgrade)
• Accessory bag (*TruePet upgrade)
• Shark steam mop (*TruePet upgrade)

Tools & Attachments Explained

With that in mind, let’s go over the most notable accessories and how they differ from one vacuum to the next. 

👍 Usability

All three vacuums, including the corded versions, are super easy to set up. Follow the instructions below, depending on what model you have:

Shark Stratos Corded

1. Attach the brushroll to the extension wand or the vacuum’s body (for handheld use);
2. Place any additional cleaning tools on each side of the storage clip;
3. Fit the odor-neutralizing cartridge into the opening on the top side of the brushroll;
4. Plug the vacuum into a wall outlet.

Shark Stratos Upright 

1. Connect the cleaning head to the extension wand;
2. Attach the extension wand to the handle;
3. Attach the hose to the vacuum’s body;
4. Install the odor-neutralizing cartridge;
5. Plug the vacuum into a wall outlet.

Shark Stratos Cordless 

1. Unbox the vacuum and charge the battery;
2. Connect the cleaning head or other accessories to the extension wand;
3. Attach the cleaning head to the vacuum’s body to use it in handheld mode;
4. Install the odor-neutralizing cartridge.

Once these steps are completed, you can start using your new Shark vacuum. Just remember to keep the brushroll clean, wash the filters at least once a month, and empty the dustbin every few weeks. Also, replace the odor-neutralizing cartridges twice a year or as needed.

📰 Specifications Compared

🥇 Which Shark Vacuum Is Best?

The Stratos Upright got the highest score in our cleaning tests, but the other two vacuums did a great job, too. Apart from that, each model has its strengths. 

For example, the Stratos Cordless is lightweight and easy to maneuver, featuring an intelligent suction system and LED lights. The Stratos Corded Stick vacuum is sleeker and more compact than other corded models, adding to the convenience factor. 

We reviewed each vacuum in detail, so check out these resources for further insights:

Should you buy the Shark Stratos Corded Stick vacuum?

I would recommend the Shark Stratos Corded to people who:

• Want powerful suction: According to the manufacturer, the Stratos Corded has the strongest suction power of any Shark stick vacuum. Our tests confirm it. This corded vacuum cleaner removed 96% of all debris and 99% of the stuff spilled on high-pile carpets. 
• Have pets: The Shark Stratos Corded did an excellent job at sucking up the pet hair on our floor with just two passes. Its brushroll can remove the hair stuck in carpets and upholstery, making it easier to keep your house clean during the shedding season.

Click here to check out the Shark Stratos Corded price

Should you buy the Shark Stratos Upright vacuum?

The Shark Stratos Upright can be a good choice if you want the following features in a vacuum cleaner:

• Large dustbin: The dustbin on this upright vacuum can hold up to 0.79 quarts (0.74 liters) of debris. Therefore, we would recommend the Stratos Upright vacuum to people living in a bigger home or those who do a lot of cleaning. 
• Superior cleaning performance: The Shark Stratos Upright removed close to 99% of the debris in our tests, plus 100% of all pet hair. Moreover, it did a great job on all three types of floors. 
• A large selection of accessories: This upright vacuum from Shark includes a larger number of tools than the other two models. The TruePet upgrade version comes with three cleaning heads, a crevice tool, an upholstery tool, a flexible wand, and other accessories.

Click here to check out the Shark Stratos Upright price

Should you buy the Shark Stratos Cordless vacuum?

The Shark Stratos Cordless vacuum can be a great option for people who want the following:

• Compact design: The Shark Stratos Cordless weighs only 8.9 pounds and has a sleek design, allowing for easy storage. Plus, it comes with a flexible wand that can be folded over when you’re not using the vacuum. 
• Intelligent suction system: This cordless stick vacuum uses infrared sensors to detect hidden debris and adjust the suction power as needed. Just remember to select the Clean Sense IQ mode after turning on your device.

Click here to check out the Shark Stratos Cordless price

Last, see this side-by-side comparison of the best Shark vacuums, including their key features, pros, cons, and technical specs. As always, feel free to leave a comment below or ask us what you want to know about the vacuums we tested.