Shark Stratos vs. Dyson V15 – A Side-by-Side Comparison

Shark and Dyson are some of the most popular vacuum brands, offering a large selection of products ranging from robot vacuums to handheld models. Today we’ll share our experience with Shark Stratos vs. Dyson V15, two cordless vacuums designed for deep cleaning. 

Both models are suitable for households with pets and include all sorts of tools for cleaning up stubborn dirt, dust, and other debris. The question is, which vacuum works best—and why should you choose one over the other?

Let’s discuss our test results so you can make the right choice. 

Table of Contents

• 🧪 Performance
• 🧬 Design
• 👍 Usability
• 🔧 Maintenance
• 📰 Specifications
• 🥇 Which Cordless Vacuum is Best?

🧪 Performance

First, let’s see how the Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15 Detect performed in our tests. 

Note that a vacuum’s performance is just one piece of the puzzle. You also need to consider its maneuverability, maintenance requirements, technical features, and ease of use. 

Also, there are several factors influencing its performance. For this reason, we perform multiple tests to determine the following:

• Cleaning Performance — how well the vacuum removed four different types of debris from three types of floors
• Motor Performance — the suction power generated by each vacuum
• Run Time Performance — what to expect in terms of battery life

Now let’s run through the results to gain a better picture of the Shark Stratos vs. Dyson V15.  

Cleaning Performance

WINNER: Dyson V15

As mentioned earlier, we test the vacuums on three types of floors: low-pile carpets, high-pile carpets, and engineered hardwoods. Each vacuum is evaluated based on its ability to remove the following debris types:

• Dry cereal
• Rice
• Granulated sugar
• Kitty litter

Both the Stratos and Dyson V15 performed well in our tests, but the latter did a better job overall. 

Model	Overall	Hardwoods	Low Carpet	High Carpet
Shark Stratos	96.6%	98.4%	96.3%	95.3%
Dyson V15 Detect	99.4%	100%	99.3%	98.8%

As shown above, the Dyson V15 scored higher than the Stratos in each category, cleaning up 100% of the debris on hardwood and over 99% of the debris on low carpets. 

Overall Cleaning Scores

Shark Stratos IZ862H Cleaning Performance 

The Shark Stratos Cordless removed most of the sugar, rice, and kitty litter from hardwood floors but struggled a bit with dry cereal. Sometimes, it tends to spread the debris to the sides, as it happened in this case. 

This minor issue is most likely due to its high suction power. However, the Stratos still removed 96.6% of the dry cereal used in our tests. 

On low- and high-pile carpets, it completely removed larger debris like rice and dry cereal but left some sugar and kitty litter behind. 

Apart from that, the Stratos Cordless did a fantastic job at cleaning up pet hair and long hair. Its brushroll didn’t get clogged, and there was no hair left on the testing lane. 

We also wanted to see how well it could remove pet hair and long hairs, and its performance was truly remarkable. By the time we were done, we couldn’t find a single strand of hair on the brushroll or in the testing lane.

Based on these results, the Shark Stratos can be a great choice for households with pets. Plus, its overall cleaning performance was quite good, especially on hardwoods. 

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

Dyson V15 Cleaning Performance

The Dyson V15 Detect removed 100% of dry cereal and rice on all three types of flooring. It left some sugar behind on low- and high-pile carpets but still cleaned up over 96% of it. 

We encountered some issues when vacuuming fine debris from low- and high-pile carpets, but the results were great overall.

When we first tested the vacuum on carpets, we used the Digital Motorbar cleaner head on Boost Mode, which created too much suction. After that, we switched to Eco Mode and got better results. 

A notable feature is the front laser light, which allows the vacuum to detect fine debris. This function, combined with the high suction power, contributes to its excellent cleaning performance. 

By comparison, the Shark Stratos uses Clean Sense IQ, a technology that detects microparticles and then adjusts the suction power as needed. 

MORE: Click here to see full cleaning tests of the Dyson V15.

Motor Performance

WINNER: Tie

According to Shark, the Stratos Cordless generates more suction than any of its cordless stick vacuums. However, the manufacturer does not specify the exact number of Air Watts (AW) or rotations per minute (RPM). 

The Dyson V15, on the other hand, produces up to 230 AW and has motors that can spin at up to 125,000 RPM. 

Based on our tests, both vacuums have above-average suction power. 

For example, we used an anemometer to measure the wind speed generated by the Shark Stratos. The vacuum produced a maximum wind speed of 19.5 mph in Boost mode and 10.7 mph in Eco mode. 

These results confirm the manufacturer’s claims—the Stratos IZ862H is indeed the company’s most powerful cordless vacuum yet.

Run Time Performance

WINNER: Tie

Both vacuums have a 60-minute run time, according to the manufacturers. However, the exact numbers may vary in a real-world setting and depend on the power mode, floor type, debris volume, and other factors. 

Also, both the Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15 include click-in batteries. Therefore, you can swap the original battery for a new one to get more run time when vacuuming larger areas. 

The Stratos Cordless will run for up to 60 minutes when used as a handheld vacuum on Eco mode. By comparison, the Dyson V15 will have a 60-minute run time when used in Auto mode. 

TIP: Upgrade to the Dyson Outsize for up to 120 minutes of run time and two click-in batteries.

What about other cleaning modes?

The Shark Stratos Cordless and Dyson V15 both have three power modes that generate varying suction levels. The stronger the suction, the shorter the battery life.

On both models, the Eco mode uses the least suction, whereas the Boost mode generates the strongest suction. 

The Clean Sense IQ and Auto modes use varying levels of suction based on the type of floor. 

With that in mind, we ran each vacuum through several tests to see how long the battery lasts in each mode. The battery was fully charged prior to each of our tests. 

Let’s see the results:

We didn’t test the Stratos Cordless in Clean Sense IQ mode because, in this case, the suction power varies based on the type of debris and the surface being vacuumed. This cleaning mode falls between the Eco and the Boost mode in terms of suction, so the battery life is somewhere in the middle. 

Both vacuums ran for more than 60 minutes in Eco mode, as shown above. The Stratos, however, can run for up to 5 minutes longer in Boost mode and 10 minutes longer in Eco mode compared to the Dyson V15. 

Again, these numbers may vary based on several factors, such as the type of floor. From a technical standpoint, both vacuums have a similar battery life. 

🧬 Design

The Shark Stratos Cordless and the Dyson V15 are quite different from one another in terms of design. 

For starters, the Dyson V15 Detect is lighter and sleeker. The Stratos Cordless looks bulkier at first sight, but it actually has a foldable design and takes up little space. 

Second, the two vacuums have distinct features and different accessories—but more on that later.

Let’s see the similarities between them before moving further:

• 2-in-1 stick vacuum or handheld 
• Quick-release attachment system
• LCD screen
• Click-in battery 
• Multiple cleaning modes
• Washable filters
• HEPA filters
• Adjustable suction
• 60-minute run time
• Various cleaning tools and accessories

Differences include:

#	Feature	Shark Stratos Cordless	Dyson V15 Detect
1	Digital display	Yes	Yes
2	Piezo sensor	No	Yes
3	Cleaning heads	DuoClean PowerFins HairPro	Laser Slim Fluffy +, High Torque
4	Configuration	Traditional	In-Line
5	Laser technology	No	Yes
6	LED lights on the nozzle	Yes	No
7	Anti-Allergen Complete Seal	Yes	No
8	Odor Neutralizer technology	Yes	No
9	MultiFLEX wand	Yes	No
10	Dustbin Capacity	0.68 L	0.77 L
11	On/Off control	Button (press ON)	Trigger (continuous hold)

Now let’s discuss the differences between the Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15.

#1. Digital Display

Both the Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15 feature an LCD screen that lets you check the battery life, change cleaning modes, and more. 

However, the Stratos has a more basic digital display than the Dyson V15. You’ll use it to switch power modes, activate Clean Sense IQ, and see how much battery you have left.

By comparison, the Dyson V15 has an ultra-advanced LCD screen that displays the following data:

• Power mode
• Remaining battery life
• Real-time particle count
• Filter maintenance alerts 
• Total cleaning time for each session

We were particularly impressed with its ability to monitor and display the size and type of particles being vacuumed. This feature enables users to determine the effectiveness of the cleaning and adjust the suction power accordingly. 

Moreover, it lets you know when it’s time to clean or replace the filter, making it easier to keep your vacuum in tip-top condition.

#2. Piezo Sensor

As discussed above, the Dyson V15 can detect and count debris particles, ensuring a thorough cleaning. This data is collected by an internal Piezo sensor. 

The Shark Stratos Cordless doesn’t use this technology, but it features infrared sensors that detect micro-particles and adjust the suction power as needed. All you have to do is select the Clean Sense IQ mode. 

#3. Cleaning Heads

The Stratos Cordless comes with one cleaning head—the DuoClean PowerFins HairPro. Its dual brushroll system is designed to remove pet hair and long hairs, dirt, and other debris. 

The DuoClean PowerFins HairPro is a more advanced version of the Duoclean Powerfins brushroll. Both the PowerFins and HairPro technologies ensure more efficient removal of pet hair and long hair while providing a deep clean. 

This brushroll features cylindrical fins that spin at high speeds, dislodging dirt and debris from surfaces. Additionally, it has self-cleaning capabilities and won’t get clogged with hair or larger debris. 

The Dyson V15 includes two cleaning heads: the Laser Slim Fluffy Cleaning Head, which works best on hard floors, and the High Torque Cleaner head, which is suitable for most surfaces, including carpets. 

The Laser Slim Fluffy Cleaning Head features a built-in laser that detects invisible particles on hardwood floors. Basically, it emits a green light to illuminate fine dust and remove the smallest debris. The laser uses very little electricity, so it won’t affect battery life.

TIP: Wash the Laser Slim Fluffy brushroll with warm water and let it air dry to maintain its performance. Wipe the laser with a microfiber cloth.

The High Torque head can automatically adjust the suction power for thorough cleaning. At the same time, it prevents tangling around the bristles, a feature that makes it ideal for pet owners. 

#4. Configuration

The Shark Stratos Cordless has the dustbin attached to the extension wand right below the handle. By comparison, the Dyson V15 features an in-line configuration, so the cleaning head, dustbin, and extension wand are all in a straight line. 

From our experience, stick vacuums with an in-line configuration are capable of delivering more suction power, and emptying the dustbin is easier, too.

However, this feature may or may not affect a vacuum’s performance, depending on the brand, model, and technical specs. 

#5. Laser Technology

As mentioned earlier, the Laser Slim Fluffy cleaner head uses a green light laser to detect fine dust and other microparticles. 

The light is spread out in a fan shape and becomes more visible in dark conditions. This feature is only available on the Dyson V15. 

#6. LED Lights on the Nozzle

The Shark Stratos has LED lights on the nozzle, a feature that allows it to detect fine debris.

This technology has pretty much the same purpose as the laser light emitted by the Laser Slim Fluffy cleaner head, making it easier to clean your home.

#7. Anti-Allergen Complete Seal

Another interesting feature is Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, which claims to remove 99.9% of pet dander, pollen, dust, and other allergens. 

According to the manufacturer, this technology is more effective than HEPA filters alone. Its role is to trap fine particles from the air and keep them from escaping the motor, dustbin, and filters. 

Basically, it captures and seals the debris inside the vacuum, preventing it from being released back into the air.

#8. Odor Neutralizer Technology

Sometimes, there’s a residual smell left in the room after vacuuming the floor or carpets. 

This odor may come from the vacuum cleaner or be due to the dust and debris spread into the air. Either way, it’s unhealthy and bothersome and can linger around for days. 

Shark’s Odor Neutralizer technology is designed to prevent these issues and leave a fresh scent behind after cleaning. The Stratos Cordless comes with odor-neutralizing cartridges that fit inside the nozzle, absorbing unpleasant smells.

These cartridges are safe and non-toxic, making them suitable for households with children or pets. 

TIP: Switch to a new cartridge every six months to maintain its efficiency. 

#9. MultiFLEX Wand

One of the biggest differences between the Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15 lies in their design. The Stratos Cordless is heavier and bulkier than the V15, but it takes up very little space thanks to the MultiFLEX Wand. 

This attachment can be folded over the vacuum body for compact storage and is a great choice for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.

#10. Dustbin Capacity

Compared to the Dyson V12 vs. V15, the Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15 have similarly sized dust cups. The Stratos Cordless comes with a 0.68-liter dustbin, whereas the V15 has a 0.77-liter dustbin. 

However, there are instances where a slightly larger dustbin may come in handy. If, say, you’re vacuuming a two-story house, you don’t want to go all the way down the stairs to empty the dustbin when it gets full. 

A larger dust cup, like the one included with the Dyson V15, requires less frequent emptying and, therefore, is better suited for large spaces. 

#11. On/Off Control

Another notable difference between the two vacuums lies in the on/off control system. 

On the Shark Stratos, you’ll have to press a button to turn the vacuum on or off. The Dyson V15, on the other hand, requires holding down the on/off button while cleaning your house or apartment. 

A continuous-hold system may seem inconvenient, but it helps save battery power. So, if you must answer the door or move the sofa while cleaning a room, the vacuum will stop working the moment you release the trigger.

Size & Dimensions

As shown above, the Dyson V15 is sleeker and lighter than the Stratos Cordless. However, the latter has a foldable design. 

Accessories & Parts

The Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15 include multiple cleaning tools and accessories, but these can vary depending on the sub-model you go with. 

Currently, Dyson offers three versions of the V15: 

• Dyson V15 Detect
• Dyson V15 Detect+
• Dyson Detect Absolute

The model we reviewed in this guide is the V15 Detect. The Dyson Detect Absolute has the largest selection of tools and attachments, whereas the Detect+ is somewhere in the middle. 

Shark offers only one version of the Stratos Cordless and several upright versions, such as the Shark Stratos Corded Stick vacuum (HZ3002). But since we’re talking about cordless vacuums, we’ll stick to the model reviewed today. 

That being said, let’s see the cleaning and accessories included with the Shark Stratos vs. Dyson V15 and its sub-models. 

As you can see, the Dyson V15 includes a wider selection of tools than the Stratos. The latter has just one brushroll and two attachments, but it should be enough for the average home—depending on what you’re looking for. 

Tools & Attachments Explained

Here’s a rundown of common parts and accessories:

👍 Usability

Both vacuums are user-friendly, and it shouldn’t take longer than five to 10 minutes to put all the pieces together.

Simply follow these steps:

1. Take the vacuum and its components out of the box;
2. Charge the battery before using the vacuum for the first time;
3. Assemble the vacuum and select the tools or accessories you’re going to use. 

For handheld use, connect the cleaning tools directly to the body of your vacuum.

Attach the extension wand, and then connect the brushroll or other accessories to use your Shark as a stick vacuum. 

Which cleaning head do I need?

The DuoClean PowerFins HairPro Brushroll, which comes with the Shark Stratos, is suitable for all surfaces.

The two cleaning heads included with the Dyson V15 should be used as shown below:

• High Torque cleaning head: carpets or areas rugs
• Laser Slim Fluffy head: hard floors

Which model is more user-friendly?

The Shark Stratos and the Dyson V15 are similar in terms of usability. However, the V15 includes a larger accessory set, but it’s pretty easy to figure out when to use what.

Apart from that, the Stratos Cordless is heavier and requires slightly more force to maneuver than the V15. Plus, it has a smaller dustbin that requires more frequent emptying.

The Dyson V15, on the other hand, has a more advanced digital display. This feature is cool and everything, but you may or may not need it.

Also, note that each vacuum has a different on/off control system. Some customers are comfortable with an on/off button (Shark Stratos), whereas others prefer the continuous-hold trigger on the V15. 

Both systems are user-friendly, and choosing one is a matter of personal preference.

🔧 Maintenance

The Shark Stratos Cordless and the Dyson V15 require some basic maintenance to function optimally.

Be prepared to:

1. Regularly wash or clean the dustbin to prevent debris buildup and odor.
2. Empty the dustbin when it reaches the MAX fill line to prevent the vacuum from losing suction power. 
3. Check the brushroll and filters for blockages or damage that could affect their performance.
4. Remove tangled hair and debris (if any) from the brushroll and clean the bristles after each use. 
5. Charge the battery between uses to keep it functioning at maximum capacity. 
6. Use the correct voltage and wattage when charging the battery. 
7. Replace the odor-neutralizer cartridges on the Stratos twice a year. 
8. Replace worn or damaged parts sooner rather than later. 
9. Wash the HEPA filters once a year or more often; allow them to air dry before use. 
10. Rinse the pre-motor foam and felt filters included with the Shark Stratos at least once a month; let them air dry for 48 hours. 
11. Avoid using the vacuum on surfaces or materials that could damage the brushroll or other parts. 

📰 Specifications

🥇 Which Vacuum is Best?

Both stick vacuums deliver great performance and have cutting-edge features, such as Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal or Dyson’s laser technology. 

The V15 scored higher on our tests, but we wouldn’t say it’s necessarily better than the Stratos. The latter has a foldable design, an advanced cleaning head, odor-neutralizing cartridges, and high suction power. 

Plus, both models are lightweight and can be used in handheld mode. They also have a similar runtime and swappable batteries, as well as similar features (e.g., an advanced LCD screen). 

However, if you really want to slice the grain, the Dyson V15 may offer better value for money.

Although it’s not cheap, it comes with two cleaning heads and a wider range of accessories than the Stratos Cordless. We were also impressed with its lightweight design, its large dustbin, and its ability to measure and display particle data. Moreover, its cleaning performance is hard to beat. 

Should you buy the Shark Stratos Cordless?

I would recommend the Shark Stratos Cordless if you’re looking for a stick vacuum with the following features:

• Superior hair cleaning performance: The Shark Stratos removed 100% of the pet hair and long hairs on our testing lane. Its self-cleaning dual brushroll system can pick up hair from carpets, area rugs, hard floors, and other surfaces without getting clogged. 
• Anti-allergen technology: This cordless stick vacuum features a special technology that captures and traps fine dust, pollen, pet dander, and other allergens. It also includes an anti-allergen brush capable of removing dust and debris from delicate surfaces, such as upholstery and appliances.
• Foldable design: The Stratos Cordless has a flexible wand you can fold over the vacuum to save space. This feature allows you to store the vacuum cleaner in a closet or a corner of the room. Additionally, the extension wand makes it easier to clean hard-to-reach spaces, such as under the furniture.
• Odor-neutralizing capabilities: The Shark Stratos also includes odor-neutralizing cartridges that capture and trap bad smells, preventing them from escaping into the air. This technology will keep your room and the vacuum smelling fresh after each cleaning session. 

Click here to check out the Shark Stratos Cordless price.

Should you buy the Dyson V15 Detect?

I would recommend the Dyson V15 Detect if you want the following features in a cordless stick vacuum:

• Exceptional cleaning performance: The Dyson V15 Detect removed over 99% of debris during our tests. It did an excellent job on hardwood, cleaning up all debris, including sugar, rice, cereal, and kitty litter. Plus, its suction power reaches 230 AW in Boost mode, which is significantly higher compared to most vacuums on the market.
• A large selection of accessories: This stick vacuum includes two cleaning heads and seven different accessories for easier cleaning and compact storage. There’s a mini motorized brushroll, a washable Fluffy head, a combination tool, a brush for removing stubborn dirt, and more. 
• Multiple-floor cleaning: The cleaning heads and tools included with the Dyson V15 are suitable for most surfaces. You can use the Laser Slim Fluffy head on hard floors, the High Torque cleaning head on carpets, the combination tool on upholstery and furniture, and the stubborn brush on hard surfaces, such as tiled floors.
• Cutting-edge technical features: The V15 has an advanced LCD screen, a powerful motor, laser lights, and real-time reporting capabilities, among other features. For example, it uses a Piezo sensor to detect and count debris particles. This data will appear on the LCD screen.

Click here to check the Dyson V15 Detect price.

If you decide to go with the Stratos Cordless, see how it compares to other Shark vacuums. 

Also, check out our list of the best Dyson vacuums for a side-by-side comparison of the Dyson 15 Detect and other models from the same brand.

Final Thoughts

Well, that’s all for today. Now it’s up to you to decide whether you should get the Dyson V15 or the Shark Stratos. 

Both vacuums deliver excellent performance and can be a good choice for pet owners. Plus, they’re suitable for large homes and small apartments alike and have advanced features for easier cleaning. 

The Dyson V15 includes a wider range of tools and accessories, but the Stratos uses cutting-edge technologies to neutralize odors, remove allergens, and pick up hair from surfaces. Apart from that, both models have a long runtime and strong suction power. 

Still not sure what to choose? Drop a line below, and we’ll try to help you out.