Shark Stratos vs. Vertex vs. Apex: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Founded in 1993, Shark Ninja is an American manufacturer of consumer electronics and home appliances. Shark, one of its brands, specializes in vacuum cleaners, mops, air purifiers, and similar products.

Today we’ll take a closer look at the Shark Stratos vs. Vertex vs. APEX, three of its bestselling vacuums. Any of them can be a good choice, but you’ll want to choose one that’s right for your home. With that in mind, we tested all three models and compared them side-by-side to help you out.

Let’s get into it.

Table of Contents

Performance Tests | Design | Size | Specifications | Summary

Performance Tests

All three vacuums performed well in our tests, but it’s the little things that make the difference.

For example, pet owners will most likely prefer a vacuum cleaner that can effectively remove hair from carpets. In this case, you’ll want to use the Dyson Ball Animal 2, the Shark Stratos Upright, or the Roomba E5.

See our list of the best vacuums for pet hair for a thorough comparison.

That said, our team ran three performance tests to get a better picture of the Shark Stratos vs. Vertex vs. APEX

• Cleaning test
• Noise test
• Usability test

Additionally, we were able to perform four more tests on the Shark Stratos Upright vacuum. These included:

• Long hair test
• Pet hair test
• Smoke sealant test
• Wind speed test

	Shark Stratos Upright	Shark Vertex DuoClean	Shark APEX DuoClean Zero-M
Overall Cleaning	98.9%	99.4%	99.0%
Noise (low)	73-74 dB	70-80 dB	73-77 dB

Cleaning Test

We test each vacuum on three types of flooring and four types of debris to fully assess its cleaning performance. For example, some vacuum cleaners may perform well on hardwood floors but not so great on high-pile carpets.

The following scores indicate the total percentage of debris (by weight) removed by each vacuum cleaner in our tests:

Floor Type	Stratos	Vertex DuoClean	APEX DuoClean
Hardwood	99.5%	100%	100%
Low Pile Carpet	99.0%	98.8%	99.0%
High Pile Carpet	98.3%	99.5%	99.0%

As shown above, we tested the vacuums on low- and high-pile carpets, as well as on hardwood.

Overall Cleaning Scores

We also measured their performance against four types of debris on each surface:

• Kitty litter
• Rice
• Cereal
• Sugar

Now let’s see the results. 

Shark Stratos Upright Cleaning Performance

The Shark Stratos Upright vacuum removed close to 99% of all debris, including the cereal spilled on our hardwood floor. Although it struggled a bit on high-pile carpets, it did a great job overall.

We were also impressed with its ability to handle pet hair and long hair without getting clogged. Furthermore, we saw no hair tangled around the brushroll, as we had seen with other vacuum cleaners tested over the years.

As mentioned earlier, the Shark Stratos was subject to several other tests. We won’t go into detail here, but you can read our full review for more information.

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

Shark Vertex Cleaning Performance

In our tests, the Shark Vertex removed 100% of the debris on hardwood thanks to its soft roller brush. It left around 4% of the sugar debris on low-pile carpets, but it still did an excellent job.

As you can see in the before and after photos, it performed better on high-pile carpets than the Stratos Upright or APEX DuoClean.

Overall, the Vertex managed to remove more debris compared to the other two models. We attribute these results to its strong suction power and the DuoClean brushroll, which carries the debris into the machine while gently cleaning the surface you’re vacuuming.

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

Shark APEX Cleaning Performance

The Shark APEX performed similarly to the Vertex, removing 99% of all debris.

This model, however, can also deep clean your carpets. Moreover, it features an advanced system that allows it to effectively seal dirt, allergens, and other debris in the dustbin until you’re ready to empty it.

Just like the Vertex, this upright vacuum managed to remove 100% of the debris on hardwood floors.

When we tested it on a low-pile carpet, it left some cereal, sugar, and kitty litter behind, but it still removed 99% of the debris.

It performed just as well on high-pile carpet, removing all debris—except for 1% of the sugar and kitty litter spilled on the floor. 

MORE: Click here to see full cleaning tests of the Shark APEX DuoClean. 

Noise Test

All vacuum cleaners generate some noise, depending on the brand and the mode selected. The models we tested had similar noise levels, with the Shark Vertex being slightly louder than the APEX and Stratos Upright. 

Shark Stratos Upright

As shown above, the noise levels don’t differ much between cleaning modes. By comparison, ambient noise is around 30 to 50 dB, whereas a hairdryer produces up to 90 dB.

The Shark APEX DuoClean produced 73 to 77 dB, depending on the cleaning mode:

Shark APEX DuoClean

The Vertex generates around 70 to 80 dB, reaching peak noise levels when used in Thick carpet mode (no test results). But even so, it’s not louder than a food processor or blow-dryer.

Common noise levels:

• 20 dB – rustling leaves
• 30 dB – whisper
• 40 dB – quiet library, babbling brook
• 50 dB – refrigerator, moderate rainfall
• 60 dB – normal conversation, dishwashers
• 70 dB – traffic, showers
• 80 dB – alarm clock, telephone dial tone

Usability Test

All three vacuums are easy to set up and operate. Each model includes an instruction manual plus various tools and accessories.

	Shark Stratos	Shark Vertex	Shark Apex
Quick assembly	10-20 min	<5 min	<5 min
Life-Away Cansiter	Yes	Yes	Yes
Cord Length	30′	30′	30′
Dust Bin Capacity	1.48 qts	1.00 qts	0.88 qts

The biggest difference lies in the dustbin capacity. As shown above, the Shark Stratos can hold significantly more debris than the Vertex and APEX. 

Apart from that, there are a couple of details that set each vacuum apart from the others. 

Shark Stratos Usability

The Shark Stratos Upright vacuum has several key features that make it stand out, including:

• Anti-allergen complete seal
• HairPro Power brush
• Odor neutralizer technology
• Easy-empty dust cup

The TruePet upgrade, an accessory set designed for pet owners, gives you access to an even wider range of tools and features. With this option, you’ll get the following:

• Shark Stratos Body
• DuoClean PowerFins cleaning head
• Extension wand
• Handle and tube
• HairPro power brush
• Crevice tool
• Upholstery tool
• Duster crevice tool
• Pet power brush
• Under-appliance wand
• Anti-allergen dust brush
• Multi-angle dust brush
• Odor cartridge 3x
• Accessory Bag

This model takes longer to assemble than the others, but the entire process is pretty straightforward.

A notable feature is the Odor Neutralizer Technology, which keeps your vacuum cleaner smelling fresh. Plus, the removable dustbin can be emptied with the press of a button. 

We were also impressed with the anti-allergen complete seal, which prevents pet dander, dust, and other common allergens from getting into the air you breathe. 

Shark Vertex Usability

Just like the Shark Stratos, this model includes the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. Apart from that, both models share similar features, including a self-cleaning brushroll, LED lights on the floor nozzle, and the DuoClean PowerFins roller. 

The Vertex also comes with Active-Glide Technology, a system that allows for easy maneuverability and maximum suction on all surfaces. Additionally, its 12″ cleaning path is wider than that of other upright vacuum cleaners. 

It’s worth mentioning that this model has a larger dustbin than the APEX and can hold up to 1 quart of debris. Plus, it includes two cleaning tools for removing stubborn pet hair from carpets and hard floors. 

Although it comes disassembled, it shouldn’t take you more than a few minutes to put all the pieces together. 

Shark APEX Usability

In terms of usability, the Shark APEX is more similar to the Vertex than the Stratos Upright vacuum. It does have the smallest dustbin, but this doesn’t affect its functionality or performance.

Some of its most notable features include:

• Washable foam, felt, and HEPA filters
• Self-cleaning pet power brush
• Noise reduction technology

With this 17-pound upright vacuum, you can store all of its accessories on the unit, eliminating the need for extra space. It’s easy to maneuver, takes minutes to assemble, and comes with a special brush for removing pet hair. 

All in all, the Shark APEX is incredibly similar to the Vertex. Apart from the dustbin and some small differences in design, these models are almost identical. 

Design

The Shark Stratos, Vertex, and APEX are similar in size and shape, but each comes with a different accessory set. 

All three models feature an upright design, a detachable canister for easier cleaning, and multiple configurations. For example, you can use any of these vacuums as a handheld device when cleaning hard-to-reach areas and tight corners. 

Other similarities include:

• 3 cleaning modes
• Washable filters
• DuoClean brushroll
• LED lights on the nozzle
• Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
• Solid cleaning performance
• Strong suction
• Sturdy build

As you can see, there are very few differences in terms of design. However, the dustbin capacity varies from one model to the next. 

If you have a bigger home, you may find the dustbin on the APEX too small (0.88 quarts). By comparison, the Shark Stratos comes with a 1.48-quart dustbin, whereas the Vertex can hold up to 1 quart of debris.

It’s also worth mentioning that all three models offer the same cleaning modes, which are labeled based on the type of floor they work best on. You can manually switch between the different modes by sliding the button on the handle of each vacuum cleaner.

Size & Dimensions

The Shark Vertex is lighter than the APEX and Stratos, but apart from that, they all have a similar look and feel. 

Moving forward, let’s see the tools and accessories included with each model. 

Accessories & Parts

All three models have similar parts and accessories, but there are some differences you may want to consider. 

For example, the Shark Stratos upright vacuum with TruePet Upgrade includes a number of cleaning tools that are not available for other models. If you skip this feature, you’ll still get a self-cleaning brush for removing pet hair. 

Now let’s see the parts and accessories included with each vacuum.

Specs	Stratos	Vertex DuoClean	APEX DuoClean
DuoClean PowerFins HairPro brushroll	Yes	No	No
DuoClean PowerFins brushroll	No	Yes	No
DuoClean brushroll	No	No	Yes
Self-cleaning brushroll	Yes	Yes	Yes
Self-cleaning Pet Power Brush	Yes	Yes	Yes
Powered Lift-Away	Yes	Yes	Yes
Crevice tool	Yes	Yes	Yes
Upholstery too	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dusting brush	Yes (with True Pet)	Yes	Yes
Duster crevice tool	Yes (with True Pet)	No	No
Multi-angle dust brush	Yes (with True Pet)	No	No
Anti-allergen dust brush	Yes (with True Pet)	No	No
MultiFLEX under-appliance wand	Yes (with True Pet)	No	No
Shark Steam mop	Yes (with True Pet)	No	No
HEPA filters	Yes	Yes	Yes
Odor Neutralizer Technology cartridges	Yes	No	No

Where are the differences?

The Shark Stratos, Vertex, and APEX have similar parts and accessories, but some tools may differ from one vacuum to another. 

Take the DuoClean brushroll, for example. All three vacuums include a slightly different version of this tool, such as the DuoClean PowerFins and the DuoClean PowerFins HairPro. 

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

Specifications Compared

By now, you should have a better idea of how these upright vacuums compare against each other. For further insights, see their specs below:

Specs	Stratos	Vertex DuoClean	APEX DuoClean
Type	2-in-1	2-in-1	2-in-1
Manufacturer	SharkNinja	SharkNinja	SharkNinja
Model	AZ3002	AZ2002	AZ1002
Length	46.5"	44.1"	46.0"
Width	10.6"	10.2"	12.2"
Depth	11.0"	10.6"	11.2"
Weight	17.2 lbs.	16.3 lbs.	17.1 lbs.
Floor Type	All (indoor)	All (indoor)	All (indoor)
Dustbin Capacity	1.48 quarts	1.00 quarts	0.88 quarts
Cord Length	30'	30'	30'
Bagless	Yes	Yes	Yes
Returns	Varies by retailer	Varies by retailer	Varies by retailer
Warranty	5 Year limited	5 Year limited	5 Year limited
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price
Review	Read Review	Read Review	Read Review

Is the Shark Stratos, Vertex, or APEX the Best?

These upright vacuums from Shark are very similar in terms of design, performance, and functionality. But even so, each model has its perks and appeals to specific customer segments.

Before you make a decision, see the full reviews and then return to this guide for a side-by-side comparison.

Should you buy the Shark Stratos Upright vacuum cleaner?

I would recommend the Shark Stratos Upright vacuum to people who:

• Have one or more pets: This upright vacuum has several cleaning tools for removing pet hair. You’ll get the Pet Power brush, plus a self-cleaning brushroll that can pick up dog or cat hair without getting tangled. The True Pet version includes an even wider range of tools, making it easy to keep your house clean year-round.
• Want more powerful cleaning tools: The Shark Stratos features an advanced version of the DuoClean brushroll, one that’s capable of removing more dirt, dander, and loose hair. If you opt for the True Pet upgrade, you’ll also get an anti-allergen dust brush and a two-in-one tool for cleaning delicate surfaces and hard-to-reach spaces, plus a multi-angle dust brush.
• Are prone to allergies: Shark’s anti-allergen dust brush and Odor Neutralizer Technology cartridges make this vacuum suitable for those who are allergic to pet dander, dust, or other contaminants. With these tools, you’ll be better able to clean your living space and reduce common allergens.

Click here to check the Shark Stratos price.

Should you buy the Shark Vertex?

I would recommend the Shark Vertex to consumers who:

• Want a lightweight vacuum: The Shark Vertex is 16.3 pounds, so it weighs less than the other two vacuums. Therefore, it could be a better choice for those with mobility issues or back pain.
• Prefer a larger dustbin: This model has a larger dustbin than the APEX, which adds to the convenience factor. The Shark Stratos comes with an even larger dust container, but that one is more suitable for those living in a big house or apartment.
• Prioritize performance over everything else: All three vacuums did a great job in our tests, but the Vertex performed slightly better than the others. It removed 99.4% of all debris, including large particles.

Click here to check the Shark Vertex price.

Should you buy the Shark APEX?

I would recommend the Shark APEX to those who:

• Want a more affordable vacuum cleaner: The Shark APEX is just as good as the Stratos or Vertex but comes with a lower price tag. While this model doesn’t have the bells and whistles of the Shark Stratos, it does an excellent job on all floor types. In our tests, it removed 99% of all debris.
• Live in a small or medium house: This upright vacuum has a lower dustbin capacity than the Shark Vertex and Stratos, which makes it suitable for smaller living spaces. If you live in a 600-square-foot apartment, the 0.88-quart dustbin included with the APEX should be more than enough.

Click here to check out the Shark APEX price.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to the Shark Stratos vs. Vertex vs. APEX, all three vacuums offer excellent value for money. These models have similar features and perform equally well, with only small differences in terms of design. Moreover, any of them can be a good choice for pet owners. 

Given these aspects, I would recommend buying whatever model has the best price at the time of purchase. The Stratos Upright Vacuum with TruePet upgrade has more advanced features and a larger selection of tools, but the other two models are just as efficient.