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Shark Stratos vs. Vertex Cordless

Derek Hales

Written By: Derek Hales

Updated on:

Shopping for a new vacuum cleaner comes with its share of challenges. There are hundreds of models on the market, and each has distinct advantages and drawbacks.

Take the Shark Stratos vs. Vertex Cordless, for example. Both vacuums have excellent ratings, but which one is right for you? 

That’s what we’re going to discuss today. Our team has tested the Shark Vertex Cordless DuoClean and the Stratos Cordless, two of the brand’s most popular products. While both models have similar features, it’s the little details that make the difference. 

Let’s see how the two performed in our tests and what to expect from each. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Isolated

Shark Stratos Cordless Stick

Suction: Strong (AW unknown) Dust bin: 0.68 liters Weight: 8.9 lbs Cleaning: 96.6% Runtime: ~60 Min.
Shark Vertex Duoclean Cordless Iz462h

Shark Vertex DuoClean Cordless

Suction: Strong (AW unknown) Dust bin: 0.32 liters Weight: 9.04 lbs Cleaning: 96.7% Runtime: ~60 Min.

Table of Contents

🧪 Performance

First, let’s talk about the overall performance of the Shark Stratos vs. Vertex Cordless. Both models have similar suction power and technical specs but perform slightly differently, depending on the type of flooring you’re using them on. 

Cleaning With Shark Stratos Cordless
Cleaning With Shark Stratos Cordless

To get a complete picture, we base our tests on three factors:

  • Cleaning Performance — how well it cleaned 4 different types of debris on three different floor types
  • Motor Performance — how strong is the suction
  • Run Time Performance — how long the battery lasts

Let’s run through the results to see how each vacuum performed in our tests. 

Cleaning Performance

WINNER: Shark Vertex DuoClean Cordless

We normally test all vacuums against four types of debris on three different surfaces. 

Both models did a great job, but the Shark Cordless Vertex was slightly more efficient on hardwood floors than the Stratos. The latter, on the other hand, performed better on low-pile carpets. 

Apart from that, the difference between the two was negligible.

ModelOverallHardwoodsLow CarpetHigh Carpet
Shark Stratos96.6%98.4%96.3%95.3%
Shark Vertex96.7%99.5% 95.0%96.0%

As you can see, there’s a mere 0.04% difference between the two in terms of cleaning performance. 

Our team has tested both models on high- and low-pile carpets and hardwood flooring, trying to remove the following types of debris: 

  1. Cereal (dry)
  2. Rice
  3. Kitty litter
  4. Sugar (granulated)
Debris Media 1
Testing Debris – From left to right: Rice (3 oz.), Kitty Litter (3 oz), Cereal (1 oz), Sugar (3 oz)

Overall Cleaning Scores

Shark Stratos Cordless

96.6%

Shark Vertex Cordless

99%

Shark Stratos IZ862H Cleaning Performance 

The Shark Stratos removed over 98% of the debris on hardwood floors but struggled a little on high-pile carpets. It also left some cereal behind on our hardwood floor. 

Let’s see the test results:

Hardwoods

98.4%

Low Pile Carpet

96.3%

High Pile Carpet

95.3%

Shark Stratos Cordless Hardwood Floor Before Tests
Shark Stratos Cordless Hardwood Floor Before Tests
Shark Stratos Cordless Hardwood Floor After Tests
Shark Stratos Cordless Hardwood Floor After Tests

Due to its high suction power, the Stratos has spread some debris to the sides when vacuuming hardwood floors. When we used it on low-pile carpets, the sugar somehow made its way over the brushroll. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Sugar Issue 1 800x600
Shark Stratos Cordless Sugar Issue

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.

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

Shark Vertex DuoClean Cleaning Performance

The Shark Vertex DuoClean Cordless performed just as well as the Shark Stratos, and it did an even better job on hardwood floors.

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

Hardwoods

99.5%

Low Pile Carpet

95%

High Pile Carpet

96%

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Hardwood
Shark Vertex cordless stick vacuum – hardwood cleaning tests

A potential drawback is that it removed only 86% of the sugar spilled on low-pile carpets. We didn’t expect to have this issue, given the high performance of the Shark Vertex Upright and IONFlex. On the positive side, the Vertex did a fantastic job at removing cereal from all surfaces. 

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Low Pile Carpet
Shark Vertex cordless stick vacuum – low pile carpet cleaning tests

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

Motor Performance

WINNER: Shark Stratos Cordless

Shark doesn’t specify the number of rotations per minute or air watts (AW) for either model, but both vacuums feature a high-speed motor with strong suction power. 

According to manufacturers, the Stratos has the highest suction of any Shark cordless vacuum. This model uses both the HyperVelocity+ and DuoClean PowerFins HairPro technologies to remove stubborn dirt and other debris. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Hair Test Dust Bin 1 800x600
Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Hair Test Dust Bin

By comparison, the Shark Vertex features HyperVelocity+ technology and the DuoClean PowerFins brushroll. 

However, its brushroll isn’t specially designed to remove pet hair or long hairs. Based on this aspect, the Shark Stratos is slightly more efficient and better suited for households with pets. 

Run Time Performance

WINNER: Tie

Both the Shark Stratos and the Vertex Cordless can run for up to 60 minutes on a single charge, depending on the mode selected. 

Shark Stratos

60-min

Shark Vertex Cordless

60-min

The Shark Stratos provides up to 60 minutes of runtime when used as a handheld vacuum in Eco mode, according to its manufacturer. The Vertex has the same maximum run time when used as a handheld vacuum in Standard mode. 

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h
Cleaning with the Shark Vertex Cordless stick vacuum

Additionally, both models include a removable battery, so you can buy a spare one and use it when the main battery runs out of power. 

What about other cleaning modes?

The actual runtime depends on the cleaning mode selected. Both vacuums have three cleaning modes, as shown below:

Shark Stratos

  • Clean Sense IQ
  • Eco Mode 
  • Boost Mode

Shark Vertex Cordless

  • Carpet Mode
  • Bare Floor Mode
  • Boost Mode

First, we tested the Shark Stratos Cordless in Eco mode and Boost mode. Let’s see the runtime for each setting:

  • Eco Mode: 78 min 50 sec
  • Boost Mode: 13 min 56 sec

As you can see, the actual runtime in Eco Mode is actually longer than 60 minutes. The Boost Mode, on the other hand, uses the most power and will reduce the runtime to less than 14 minutes. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Eco Mode
The green leaf indicates the eco mode on the Shark Stratos

The Clean Sense IQ mode will increase or reduce the suction power based on the type of debris and the surface being cleaned, so it’s hard to determine the exact runtime. 

By comparison, the Shark Vertex will run for up to 10 minutes in Boost mode, 23 minutes in Carpet mode, and 34 minutes in Boost mode. 

  • Carpet Mode: 23 min
  • Bare Floor Mode: 34 min
  • Boost Mode: 10 min

Again, these numbers may vary depending on how you use the vacuum. 

Generally, the Eco or Standard Mode generates the least amount of suction, whereas the Boost Mode provides the most suction. The other modes are somewhere in between. A higher suction power leads to a shorter runtime.

🧬 Design

The two stick vacuums differ from each other in terms of design, with the Shark Stratos being lighter and sleeker than the Vertex. Moreover, the Stratos Cordless includes a larger dustbin and has a more compact body.

Similarities include: 

  • 2-in-1 stick vacuum or handheld 
  • Self-cleaning brushroll
  • Quick-release system
  • Multiple cleaning modes
  • User-friendly LED display
  • LED lights on the nozzle
  • Washable filters
  • HEPA filters
  • Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
  • MultiFLEX wand
  • 60-minute run time
  • A wide range of tools and accessories
  • In-line dust cup

Differences include:

#FeatureShark Stratos Cordless Shark Vertex Cordless
1Digital displayYesYes
2Cleaning headsDuoClean PowerFins HairProDuoClean PowerFins
3Click-in batteryYesNo
4ConfigurationTraditionalTraditional
5Dustbin capacity0.68 L0.32 L
6Run TimeButton (press ON)Button (press ON) + Pull trigger for MAX power
7Anti-Allergen Complete SealYesYes
8Odor Neutralizer technologyYesNo
9Clean Sense IQYesNo

Now let’s take a closer look at the key features and differences between these Shark models. 

#1. Digital Display

Both the Shark Stratos and Vertex Cordless feature an LED display that allows users to change cleaning modes with one touch. 

The Stratos, however, features a more advanced LED user interface that displays the battery life. It also allows you to select the desired suction level, change cleaning modes, or switch to Clean Sense IQ.

Shark Stratos Cordless 

Shark Stratos Cordless Clean Sense Iq Mode
The Stratos displays mode and battery life

Shark Vertex Cordless

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Modes
The Vertex only displays the mode

#2. Cleaning Heads

Shark Stratos Cordless

DuoClean PowerFins HairPro

Shark Vertex Cordless

DuoClean PowerFins

The Vertex Cordless includes a self-cleaning brushroll using Duoclean Powerfins technology. Its brushroll is an upgraded version of the DuoClean brushroll, a standard feature of the Shark APEX and other models. 

Powerfins technology ensures more efficient removal of human and pet hair, preventing the brushroll from getting clogged. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Brush Roll
Shark Stratos Cordless Brush Roll
Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Duoclean Brush
Shark Vertex cordless DuoClean

The Shark Stratos comes with a new version of the Duoclean Powerfins brushroll, which can pick up even more hair thanks to the HairPro technology. 

Additionally, both vacuums have LED lights on the nozzle, making it easier to spot dirt, debris, or pet hair under furniture and other dark areas. 

#3. Click-In Battery

As mentioned earlier, both the Shark Stratos and the Vertex Cordless include a click-in battery that can be removed and replaced as needed. 

This feature can significantly increase the run time, allowing you to vacuum larger surfaces without charging the battery (depending on the cleaning mode selected). 

#4. Configuration

Compared to the Dyson V12 and V15, the two Shark vacuums have a more traditional configuration. 

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Pivot
Shark Vertex pivot handle

Those Dyson models have the cleaning head, dustbin, and extension wand arranged in a straight line. On the other hand, the Shark Stratos and Vertex Cordless have the dustbin attached to the extension wand right below the handle. 

However, this isn’t necessarily a drawback. The dustbin adds some bulk to the vacuum, but it doesn’t affect its performance or maneuverability.

#5. Dustbin Capacity

Shark Stratos Cordless

0.68 L

Shark Vertex Cordless

0.32 L

One of the main differences between the Shark Stratos and the Vertex Cordless lies in their dustbin capacities. 

As shown above, the Stratos comes with an XL dustbin that’s more than double in size than that of the Shark Vertex and, therefore, can hold larger amounts of debris. Plus, its dustbin features the CleanTouch Dirt Ejector technology, which allows you to empty it without getting your hands dirty. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Empty Dust Bin Button
Shark Stratos Cordless Dust Bin
Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Handheld2
Shark Vertex Dust Bin

However, the Vertex Cordless includes an easy-empty dust cup that uses a similar mechanism as that included with the Stratos. Apart from its size, we wouldn’t say there’s a big difference in terms of usability.

#6. On/Off Control

Both models have a button for turning on and off the vacuum, but the Shark Vertex Cordless also includes a pull trigger that activates the Boost mode. 

#7. Anti-Allergen Complete Seal

Another cool feature included with both models is the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal. According to the manufacturer, this technology allows the vacuum to remove up to 99.9% of the pet dander, pollen, dust, and other allergens that would otherwise be released back into the air during cleaning. 

Basically, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal prevents microscopic particles, such as dust mites and pollen, from escaping the dustbin and filters. Therefore, it may benefit those with allergies or asthma. 

#8. Dust Bin Capacity

The Shark Stratos also uses a special technology to neutralize bad odors and freshen up the air while cleaning. This model is equipped with a cartridge that fits inside the nozzle, absorbing cigarette smoke and other unpleasant smells. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Odor Neutralizer Knob
Shark Stratos Cordless Odor Neutralizer Knob

Note, though—this technology may not eliminate all odors, especially if the source of the odor is not removed.

TIP: Replace the odor-neutralizing cartridge every six months for optimal efficiency. 

#9. Clean Sense IQ

Clean Sense IQ, a technology used by the Stratos Cordless, can automatically adjust the suction power based on the surface being vacuumed. It uses infrared sensors to detect less visible dirt and then increases the suction power to remove any debris. 

According to Shark, this feature ensures up to 50% better dirt pickup. Over time, it may help extend the life of your vacuum and its filters by reducing the stress placed on the motor and other internal components.

Size & Dimensions

Stratos Cordless

  • Length: 13.78″
  • Width: 10.24″
  • Height: 51.18″
  • Weight: 8.9 lbs.

Vertex Cordless

  • Length: 10.23″
  • Width: 9.65″
  • Height: 46.45″
  • Weight: 9.04 lbs.

Note that both models can be folded when not in use thanks to the MultiFLEX technology. You can simply fold the wand over the vacuum body to save space. 

Accessories & Parts

Each of these two Shark vacuums includes different parts and accessories. Also, both models are available in several versions—each with its own accessory set. 

We tested the Shark Stratos IZ862H and the Vertex IZ462H, so we’ll focus on these two.

Shark Stratos Cordless

Shark Stratos Cordless Assembelly

Includes:

  • DuoClean PowerFins HairPro brushroll
  • Anti-allergen brush
  • Crevice tool

Shark Vertex Cordless

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Attachments

Includes:

  • DuoClean PowerFins brushroll
  • Anti-allergen brush
  • Pet power brush
  • Crevice tool

The cleaning accessories included with each model are fairly basic but should be enough to get the job done. We recommend using the pet brush, dusting brush, and crevice tool when vacuuming in handheld mode, and the self-cleaning brush on carpets or hardwood floors. 

Also, note that you can purchase additional accessories separately. For example, Shark offers a number of extras, such as an under-appliance wand and an upholstery tool, for the Vertex Cordless. 

Tools & Attachments Explained

Here’s a rundown of common parts and accessories:

DuoClean PowerFins Brushroll

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Duoclean Brush

Designed to remove fine dust and large particles, such as sugar or kitty litter, from both carpets and bare floors. It consists of a soft brushroll and a bristle brushroll that work together to pull dirt and debris for thorough cleaning.

*Included on the Vertex only

DuoClean PowerFins HairPro Brushroll

Shark Stratos Cordless Long Hair Test After

Works similarly to the PowerFins brushroll, but it’s engineered to pick up pet hair and long hairs more efficiently.

*Included on the Stratos only

Anti-Allergen Brush

Shark Stratos Cordless Anti Allergen Brush

This tool can be flipped around to remove the dust under and on top of furniture and appliances. The brush has nylon fiber bristles that won’t damage delicate surfaces. 

*Included on all Stratos and Vertex models

Crevice Tool

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Crevice Tool

Use this compact cleaning tool when vacuuming hard-to-reach areas.

*Included on all Stratos and Vertex models

Pet Power Brush

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Brush

This attachment loosens and cleans up pet hair from upholstery, carpets, and other surfaces. With its sleek design, it can get into hard-to-reach areas, such as under the sofa. 

*Included on the Vertex only

👍 Usability

The Shark Stratos and the Vertex Cordless are almost identical in terms of usability. Both models take minutes to assemble and can be used as a stick vacuum or handheld device. 

Simply follow these steps to start using your new Shark vacuum:

  1. Unpack the product and all of its components;
  2. Charge the battery before initial use;
  3. Attach the self-cleaning brushroll or other accessories.

All of the attachments can be connected or removed with the push of a button. Plus, the Vertex has a plastic clip for storing the cleaning brushes on the vacuum body. 

  • 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

Since both models feature the MultiFLEX technology, you can bend the extension wand to clean hard-to-reach areas or store your vacuum in a more compact manner. 

Which model is more user-friendly?

Both the Shark Vertex Cordless and the Stratos IZ862H are intuitive and user-friendly. The latter is lighter and, therefore, easier to maneuver, but the difference between the two is negligible. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Pivot Extension Wand
Shark Stratos pivot function
Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Handheld
Shark Vertex Cordless Handheld Mode

Apart from that, both models have a cordless design, multiple cleaning modes, and several attachments, offering flexibility and convenience. It would have been nice to get more than one cleaning head with each model, but the DuoClean brushroll does a great job on its own. 

If you really want to slice the grain, then the Shark Stratos might be a better option. Not only is it sleeker than the Vertex, but it also has a larger dustbin and more advanced features, such as Odor Neutralizer technology.

🔧 Maintenance

Maintenance for the Shark Stratos and the Vertex Cordless is basically the same. Here’s what you should do to keep your vacuum functioning optimally:

  1. Wash the HEPA filters with water at least once a year or as needed; let them air dry before use. 
  2. Rinse the foam and felt filters once a month or as needed; allow them to air dry for at least 24 hours. 
  3. Empty the dustbin regularly to prevent clogging and maintain suction power.
  4. Charge the battery between uses to keep it running for longer. 
  5. Keep the brushroll clean and remove any tangles or other debris after each use.
  6. Use only Shark-recommended attachments and accessories.
  7. Clean the vacuum’s exterior regularly to maintain its appearance.
  8. Get a new set of odor-neutralizer cartridges (for the Shark Stratos) every six months. 
  9. Avoid vacuuming sharp objects that can damage the brushroll or other components.

Empty the dust bin

varies based on model

Shark Vertex Cordless Iz462h Emptying Dust Bin

Wash the filter

wash about once a month

Shark Vertex Duoclean Filters

Charge the battery

takes about 4.5 hours

Shark Stratos Battery

Clear the brushroll

of any hair or tangled debris

Shark Vertex Duoclean Brushroll

Wash the brushroll

on soft roller heads only

Shark Stratos Cordless Brush Head Maintenance 400x300

Replace odor neutralizer

every 6 months

Shark Stratos Cordless Inserting Odor Neutralizer

📰 Specifications

SpecsShark Stratos CordlessShark Vertex Cordless
TypeStickStick
ManufacturerSharkShark
ModelIZ862HIZ462H
Length13.78"10.23"
Width10.24"9.65"
Height51.18"46.45"
Weight8.9 lbs.9.04 lbs.
Floor TypeAll (indoor)All (indoor)
Dustbin Capacity0.68 L0.32 L
Click In BatteryYesYes
Run TimeUp to 60 minsUp to 60 mins
CordlessYesYes
BaglessYesYes
ReturnsVaries by retailerVaries by retailer
Warranty5-Year limited5 Year limited
PriceCheck PriceCheck Price
ReviewRead ReviewRead Review

🥇 Which Shark is Best?

As discussed earlier, the Shark Stratos and the Vertex Cordless have similar features and technical specs. Plus, both models got pretty much the same score in our cleaning tests, so their performance is almost identical. 

However, the Stratos Cordless is slightly more advanced from a technical standpoint. This model comes with a more intuitive LED display and a more efficient brushroll, plus the Clean Sense IQ and Odor Neutralizer technologies. Its large dustbin is an advantage, too. 

Shark Stratos Cordless

Shark Stratos Cordless Isolated

Read Review

Shark Vertex Cordless

Shark Vertex Duoclean Cordless5

Read Review

Should you buy the Shark Stratos Cordless?

I would recommend the Shark Stratos Cordless to people who:

  • Want a long runtime: The Shark Stratos IZ862H was designed to run for up to 60 minutes on a single charge, but it actually performed better in our tests. We’ve been able to use it for nearly 80 minutes in Eco Mode, which was quite a surprise. Plus, you can swap the battery for an even longer runtime. 
  • Have pets: This model includes a brushroll that uses the DuoClean PowerFins HairPro technology to remove pet hair from carpets and other surfaces. In our tests, it cleaned up 100% of the hairs on low- and high-pile carpets. Moreover, we didn’t see any hairs tangled around the brush head. 
  • Are prone to allergic reactions: The Stratos Cordless comes with an anti-allergen brush, HEPA filters, and odor-neutralizing cartridges. Plus, it uses the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology, which prevents dust, mold spores, pet dander, and other allergens from escaping the dustbin and filters. 
  • Prefer a lightweight vacuum: This cordless vacuum is lighter than the Stratos Vertex, which allows for easier maneuverability and control. It weighs only 8.9 pounds when used as a stick vac, and even less when used as a handheld vacuum. Additionally, it can be folded and stored in small spaces thanks to the MultiFLEX technology. 

Click here to check out the Shark Stratos Cordless price.

Should you buy the Shark Vertex Cordless?

I would recommend the Shark Vertex to people who:

  • Want to spend less – the Shark Vertex is a good bit less expensive compared to the Stratos, while the performance is only slightly trailing behind.
  • Want a lightweight body – As a stick vacuum, the Vertex weighs less than 10 pounds, and as a handheld, it weighs less than 3 pounds.
  • Want a good all-around vacuum – The Vertex vacuum cleaner is an excellent choice for cleaning multiple floors. Its DuoClean brushroll is designed to be gentle on hardwood floors, while the PowerFins enable it to effectively remove dirt and dust from deep within carpets. Additionally, it includes a variety of tools that are useful for handheld cleaning or tackling specific cleaning tasks.

Click here to check the Shark Vertex Cordless price.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know more about the Shark Stratos vs. Vertex Cordless, it’s up to you to decide which model is best for your home. 

Both vacuum cleaners deliver excellent performance and can be a great choice for pet owners. In our tests, they removed over 96% of all debris, including kitty litter, cereal, rice, and granulated sugar. We were also impressed with their compact design, versatility, and convenience. 

Shark Stratos Cordless Storage Height
Shark Stratos Cordless in compact mode

Last but not least, both the Shark Stratos and the Vertex include a click-in battery that can be swapped for a spare one to get a longer runtime. Therefore, either model is a good choice for small apartments and larger homes alike.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information. Drop a comment below if you have any questions, and we’ll do our best to help you out.

About Derek Hales

Derek HalesDerek Hales is the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of ModernCastle.com. He has been featured in Fast Company, Reader's Digest, Business Insider, Realtor.com, She Knows, and other major publications. Derek has a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from Kansas State University. Hales has been testing and reviewing products for the home since 2014.