Shark vs. Dyson: The Definitive Comparison

Shark vs. Dyson — these are two of the most popular vacuum brands on the market today, and for good reason.

Both of these companies produce vacuums that are designed to make cleaning quicker, easier, and more effective.

This review is going to compare Shark vs. Dyson vacuums across the board, including all types and many models.

Prefer to watch rather than read? We’ve got our Dyson vs. Shark video guide here.

What’s in this Comparison?

Best Overall | Best Cordless | Best Upright | Best for Pet Hair | Best for Hardwoods

What’s the Best Dyson & Shark Vacuums?

Both Dyson and Shark have a huge model lineup, so much so that it can be hard to know what vacuum is really best. We’ve tested 30 different Shark & Dyson models and can help you determine the best model for you.

The list below are the best Dyson vs. Shark vacuums across the entire model lineup.

The Best Shark Vacuum

If you simply want the best of the best (regardless of price) that Shark and Dyson have to offer, here is how we break it down.

For Shark, the current best vacuum is the Shark Stratos Upright. It’s a step above the previous Shark models and is closely followed-up by the Shark Stratos Cordless variant.

Released alongside the Stratos Upright, the Stratos Cordless is another powerful variant of the Stratos lineup.

The Best Dyson Vacuum

For Dyson, the best vacuum is Dyson V15 cordless stick with the V11 and V12 as alternative cordless options. If you are looking for a Dyson upright, you can’t beat the performance of the flagship Dyson Ball Animal 3.

While the gap has closed in, the Dyson V15 edges out as the best vacuum between Dyson and Shark. However, it’s also incredibly expensive. If you’d rather a lightweight alternative you can choose the V12, or if you’d rather something less expensive, the V11.

While the Dyson Ball Animal 2 is still an excellent upright, the newer Ball Animal 3 does it all, but better and at basically the same price.

Dyson vs. Shark Cordless

Concerning cordless vacuums, the best model from each brand would have to be the Dyson V15 vs. Shark Stratos Cordless.

Both of these vacuums are two of the best models overall that each brand manufactures.

Need a less expensive cordless vacuum?

For a more budget-friendly version of each of these vacuums, check out the Shark Vertex DuoClean and the Dyson V11. Both are just 1 step down, but still have mostly the same features.

What about the Dyson V12?

The V12 launched in 2022 and is packaged in a smaller form factor. This makes it easier to move around and carry, but means less dustbin capacity and suction power.

Dyson vs. Shark Upright

While there is certainly no shortage of lightweight stick vacuums, upright models are still a powerful option to consider.

For uprights, the best Shark and Dyson would have to be the Shark Stratos Upright and the Dyson Ball Animal 3.

Both of these models have large capacity dust bins, great filtration, numerous attachment and accessories for variable cleaning styles, and swivel steering.

For a cheaper alternative that still packs a punch, consider the Shark APEX DuoClean Zero-M or the Dyson Ball Animal 2. These both were previous choices for our best upright vacuums and had excellent performance in our tests.

Dyson vs. Shark For Pet Hair

When vacuuming pet hair, there are a few critical pet-friendly factors you may want to be on the lookout for.

These factors tend to improve the cleaning performance of pet hair, pet dander, and other ailments that are more common in homes with pets.

So what’s most important for cleaning pet hair?

1. Large capacity dust bins
2. HEPA filtration
3. Tangle-free attachments or brushrolls
4. Swivel steering to maneuver into hard-to-reach places
5. Upholstery tool for cleaning pet hair from pet beds or sofas

So what’s the real truth? How do Dyson and Shark compare at cleaning dog and cat hair?

Shark Stratos vs. Vertex vs. Dyson V15 vs. V12 vs. V11

The battle for the best cordless vacuum has been a long and storied fight between Shark vs. Dyson. Dyson’s V-series has continually pumped out upgraded models almost every year.

Shark has also launched new cordless models with great frequency, with their newest models coming closer to Dyson’s performance, making it a strong competitor.

As of 2023, the Dyson V15 and Shark Stratos Cordless are the two top cordless models from Shark and Dyson.

Not too far behind either of these are the Dyson V12 and V11. The V12 is smaller and more agile, while the V11 is the older model that still packs a punch.

While there are many other cordless Shark vacuums, our previous cordless winner, the Shark Vertex DuoClean, would be our choice for a Shark cordless runner up.

Cleaning Tests Compared

Below you can see our cleaning test data, which shows the percentage of total debris removed by weight for each model:

	Shark Stratos Cordless	Dyson V15	Dyson V11	Dyson V12	Shark Vertex DuoClean
Hardwood	98%	100%	99%	99%	100%
Low Pile Carpet	96%	99%	100%	99%	95%
High Pile Carpet	95%	99%	99%	98%	96%

When it comes to raw cleaning power on carpets the Shark vacuums tend to lag behind the Dyson V15, V11, and V12. However, not by a huge margin.

While the Dyson vacuums are objectively better in terms of cleaning power, they are also notably more expensive (typically).

You can save a few hundred dollars with the Shark, or spend the extra money and get a higher performance cleaning machine.

To see our complete tests and data please see our full reviews for each of the above models:

• Shark Stratos Cordless Review
• Dyson V15 Review
• Dyson V11 Review
• Dyson V12 Review
• Shark Vertex DuoClean Review

What’s the best Dyson or Shark for Hardwood Floors?

The best Dyson vacuum for hardwood floors is a toss up between the Dyson Omni-Glide, V15, and V12. All three come attached with a soft roller brush and different factors that set them apart.

The best Shark vacuum for hardwoods is the Shark Stratos cordless.

Most vacuums will work reasonably well on hardwood floors, but some features are certainly better at both cleaning and protecting your hardwood flooring.

In the case of Dyson, the soft roller head is a triple threat. It cleans better, polishes, and protects your hardwood floors better than a more traditional brushroll.

The Dyson Omni-glide is the best version of the soft roller head for hardwood floor cleaning. However, the Fluffy Laser cleaner head attachment is barely behind. In addition, any V-series vacuum can be equipped with a soft roller head.

You can purchase a standalone soft roller head for the V-series here.

What are the best features on Shark & Dyson vacuums?

To tackle large debris, both Shark and Dyson have developed designs that allow for large debris to more easily be swept up.

Shark DuoClean

DuoClean technology combines the standard brushroll with a soft roller brush at the front of the cleaning face. These two rollers spin counter-directions from each other allowing debris to be sucked into the dust bin more easily. All Shark vacuums with the tag name “DuoClean” come with this cleaning head.

• Shark Vertex DuoClean
• Shark APEX DuoClean
• Shark Vertex Ultra Lightweight DuoClean
• Shark Stratos Upright
• Shark Stratos Cordless

Dyson Fluffy

The Fluffy cleaning head is a soft roller that takes a similar approach. It uses a simple soft roller design that is designed to grab and suck the debris into the dust bin. All Dyson V-series stick vacuums with the tag name “Absolute” or “Fluffy” come with this Fluffy cleaning head.

• Dyson V7 Fluffy
• Dyson V8 Absolute
• Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute
• Dyson V12 Detect Slim
• Dyson V15

Shark’s Flex & Multi-Flex

Shark takes the cake for integrated flexibility. Shark models with the tag name Flex, Multi-Flex, and IONFlex have the ability to bend nearly 180° for great maneuverability or easy storage. The following vacuums have flex capability.

• Shark Stratos Cordless
• Shark Vertex DuoClean
• Shark Rocket Pet Pro Plus MultiFlex

Dyson’s V-Series Dust Bins

One area where Dyson excels is the design of the dust bin. Later V-series models are designed in varying ways that results in cleaner, more hygienic methods for emptying the dust bin.

• Dyson V6 – Dust bin release hatch is by the trigger; a little awkward
• Dyson V7 and Dyson V8 – Dust bin release hatch pulls up from the top (by the cyclones)
• Dyson V10, Dyson V11, and Dyson V15 – Dust bin release hatch is on the side, like a “point-and-shoot” approach
• Dyson V12 Detect Slim – it’s smaller and more compact for a lighter and easier to move stick vacuum, but uses the same “point-and-shoot” approach

Shark vs. Dyson – What’s different?

Both Shark & Dyson vacuum cleaners provide great cleaning and easy usability. The main differences between the two brands are price, suction, and weight.

Dyson vacuums tend to be more expensive, heavier, and have more suction. Shark vacuums are typically more budget-friendly, but generally don’t have as much suction power.

Shark Vacuums Overview

Shark offers all types of vacuums including upright, stick, handheld, canister, and robot vacuums. Across their brand line, there doesn’t seem to be a priority in vacuum type, as all products have a varied amount of exposure on their site.

They develop vacuums that are designed to suit the modern home. Many Shark models are adaptive, unique, and some can quite literally bend in half to help make cleaning easier.

Dyson Vacuums Overview

Dyson offers all types of vacuums including upright, stick, handheld, canister, and robot vacuums. Arguably, their “bread and butter” is the line of cordless stick vacuums (the V-series).

With the release of the Dyson V10, owner James Dyson was quoted saying “this is why I’ve stopped developing corded vacuums”, in regards to their small, powerful motor on the cordless stick vacuums.

Since the V10 launched in March of 2018, Dyson released a new upright, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 in 2022. They have continued to release several cordless vacuums including the Dyson V12 Detect Slim (launched 2022), Dyson V15 Detect (launched 2021), V11 Torque Drive (launched 2019) and V11 Outsize (launched 2020).

Shark vs. Dyson – Cordless Vacuum Comparisons

Both Shark and Dyson are well known for their selection of cordless stick vacuums. As battery performance increases nearly every year cordless vacuums have fewer disadvantages relative to corded vacuums.

This guide is going to look at design, battery power, cleaning performance, size, features, and more.

Dyson V15

• Dimensions: 9.8 x 10.3 x 49.6″
• Run Time: ~60 minutes
• Weight: 6.8 pounds

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The Dyson V15 is the most high-performance vacuum cleaner Dyson has ever built, and arguably that has ever been built anywhere in the world. It has 230 AW of suction power, giving it as much and more power than many upright vacuums.

It dominated our cleaning tests, removing 99% of all debris by weight. In our run time tests it was able to run for up to 68.5 minutes on Eco mode and 45.5 minutes on Auto mode.

The internal particulate sensor measures the sizes and quantity of debris that’s been cleaned. The data is presented on the rear display, showing you exactly what you’re removing.

Pros

• Long run time, up to 68.5 minutes on Eco mode (with full sized head)
• Particulate sensor and display shows you exactly what you’re cleaning and how much
• Intelligent suction adapts power for optimal cleaning and battery life
• Laser soft fluffy cleaning head reveals dirt on the surface with laser illumination
• 230 AW of suction power, the most of any cordless vacuum on the market

Cons

• It’s expensive, very expensive

Dyson V12 Detect Slim

• Dimensions: 9.9 x 9.8 x 49.1″
• Run Time: ~60 minutes
• Weight: 5.2 pounds

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Being the newest Dyson cordless, the V12 Detect Slim doesn’t have the most suction power, like the V15. Instead, it lessens the power into a more compact and lightweight design. This leads to an easier to carry and more maneuverable stick vacuum that still cleans exceptionally well.

In addition, there are thoughtful design changes like a button for power, and great accessories included like the Laser Fluffy cleaner head for optimal hard surface cleaning.

The internal particles sensor can automatically adjust the suction of the vacuum based on floor type and debris is senses. Giving you the best suction for the job.

Pros

• Lighter than other models, just 5.2 pounds
• Fantastic performance in cleaning tests, removed 98.6% of total debris by weight
• Easily cleaned long hair and pet hair
• Particulate sensor and automatic suction adjustment
• Laser soft fluffy cleaning head reveals dirt on the surface with laser illumination

Cons

• Expensive, especially compared to non-Dyson
• Small dustbin, just 0.1 gallons / 0.38 liters

Dyson V11

• Dimensions: 9.8 x 10.3 x 50.6″
• Run Time: ~60 minutes
• Weight: 6.68 pounds

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The Dyson V11 is an advanced and powerful cordless vacuum. It shares many similarities with the Dyson V10 including a 60 minute run time, cordless design, tons of cleaning attachments, and a sizable dust bin.

The Dyson V11 is Dyson’s first truly smart vacuum. It uses intelligent suction to automatically increase / decrease suction depending on the floor type and debris.

Additionally, the V11 is equipped with an LCD screen that shows the remaining run time, maintenance videos, and cleaning modes.

Pros

• A length 60 minute run time gives you more than enough time to clean everything you need to
• Intelligent suction automatically increase / decrease suction in order to best clean the surface, while also preserving battery life
• Rear LCD displays remaining clean time, cleaning mode, and more
• Third highest suction of any cordless stick vacuum at 185 AW in boost mode (only beat out by the Dyson V15 and Dyson Outsize)
• Click in battery system

Cons

• Very pricey. This is one of the most expensive vacuums on the market.

Shark Stratos Cordless

• Dimensions: 10.2″ x 13.8″ x 51.2″
• Run Time: ~75 minutes
• Weight: 8.9 pounds

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The Shark Stratos Cordless is a powerful and simple to use vacuum with an extra long runtime for one battery. It uses “Clean Sense IQ” to automatically adjust the suction power based on debris and floor type it can sense.

The DuoClean brushrolls and Powerfins handle hair with ease, both human and pet. It avoided having any hair tangle around the brushroll and was able to agitate the carpet successfully as to remove pet hair.

In addition, it comes with accessories, an odor neutralizer, and bendable neck all which improve the cleaning experience.

Pros

• Perfect suction against pet and human hair with zero trace in the brushroll.
• Very long runtime if you use the Clean Sense IQ mode or Eco mode
• Excellent performance across debris types, but especially large debris.
• Bendable neck making cleaning around furniture more accessible.

Cons

• A small percentage of sugar and kitty litter consistently eluded this model
• On the heavier side as far as cordless vacuums go at almost 9 pounds

Shark Vertex DuoClean

• Dimensions: 10.24 x 10.6 x 46.5″
• Run Time: ~60 minutes
• Weight: 9.0 pounds

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The Shark Vertex DuoClean is the the 2nd most powerful cordless vacuum in Shark’s lineup (2nd only to the Stratos). The run time is now at an impressive 60 minutes, equivalent to Dyson’s most high-end cordless vacuums.

It’s equipped with the upgraded DuoClean brushroll, which now contains “power fins”. These are rubberized agitators on the brushroll and according to Shark offer improved cleaning performance vs. the original DuoClean brushroll.

While our tests of the upright Vertex with its power fins equipped brushroll didn’t strike us as massively improved, it still cleared 99% of debris in those tests.

Pros

• Solid 60 minute run time
• DuoClean brushroll is excellent at cleaning any floor type
• Flexible joint on the wand allows for easy cleaning under furniture and compact storage
• Relative to Dyson’s highest end vacuums, it’s quite affordable

Cons

• On the heavy side at 9 pounds

Dyson V11 Outsize

• Dimensions: 12.5 x 10.3 x 50.6″
• Run Time: ~120 minutes
• Weight: 7.85 pounds

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The Dyson V11 Outsize launched in March, 2020. While it is a variant of the V11, it has many significant improvements that in our view should have made it a new model altogether.

The V11 Outsize has a larger dust bin, larger cleaning head, more suction, and runs for 120 minutes (via 2 batteries). The Outsize is the first Dyson vacuum to use a click-in battery system.

It has all of the same accessories that come with the V11 Torque Drive. In addition, it still uses the same intelligent suction system and LCD display on the rear of the motor.

Pros

• It has the most suction of any cordless vacuum at 220 AW on boost mode
• It has the largest dust bin we’ve ever seen on a cordless vacuum at 1.89 L. This dust bin makes it as large or larger than many full-size upright vacuums.
• It has a sizable 12.5″ wide cleaning head, so you can cleaner faster by covering more area with each cleaning pass.
• Uses a clickable battery system and comes with 2 batteries. Each battery runs for 60 minutes, giving it a combined 2 hour run time.

Cons

• It’s still quite expensive

Dyson V10

• Dimensions: 9.8 x 10.1 x 49.2″
• Run Time: ~60 minutes
• Weight: 5.8 pounds

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The Dyson V10 is part of Dysons flagship vacuum cleaners. It launched in Spring 2018 and offers a 60 minute run time, a redesigned “point-and-shoot” dust bin, and low maintenance costs.

Last, but not least, the Dyson V10 easily converts between a stick vacuum and a portable handheld unit.

Pros

• The 60-minute run time offers one of the longest run times of any cordless stick vacuum on the market today.
• Redesigned “point and shoot” dust bin helps keep the maintenance process more hygienic.
• Virtually no annual maintenance costs help keeps cash in your pocket. (Battery lasts 15 years according to James Dyson.)

Cons

• The re-designed cleaning body make this (and the V11) slightly heavier. V10 is 5.8 pounds.
• While it’s not as expensive compared to when it launched it’s still not a cheap vacuum

Shark Rocket Pet Pro

• Dimensions: 7.1 x 10.2 x 46.1″
• Run Time: ~40 minutes
• Weight: 7.17 pounds

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The Shark Rocket Pet Pro looks like it was designed to compete more directly with Dyson’s V-series vacuums. It has a similar configuration, with the dust bin, 2-in-1 design, and battery life.

The Rocket Pet Pro has a re-designed cleaning head that’s said to be better at capturing pet hair, while avoiding being tangled by it.

In 2020, Shark updated the Rocket Pet Pro to include the pivot flex joint on the extension wand (same as the IONFlex DuoClean). This gives it even more cleaning versatility.

The pivot joint also allows the vacuum to basically fold in half for storage.

Pros

• Long 40 minute run time is sufficient for many homes
• 2-in-1 design allows you to use as a handheld or full-size stick vacuum
• Spiral rubberized brushroll is designed to better remove pet hair
• Very reasonably priced

Cons

• Small dust bin at only 0.34 L
• No wall mounted storage option

Dyson V8

• Dimensions: 9.8″ x 8.8″ x 49″
• Run Time: ~40 minutes
• Weight: 5.75 pounds

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The Dyson V8 improved on the design of the V6 and Dyson V7. There are some slight tweaks to the redesigned dust bin that was introduced with the V7 model. In addition, a larger capacity battery provides a longer 40-minute run time, which is twice the run time of the V6 model.

The V8 is a cordless stick model that converts to a handheld vacuum when you need to clean on-the-go.

Pros

• Extended run time of ~40 minutes, compared to the shorter run time of the Dyson V6 and V7.
• Improved cleaning performance for larger debris types (ie, cereal).

Cons

• A pricier model, compared to other stick vacuums on the market.
• A 40-minute run time is shorter than that of the Dyson V10 model.
• This vacuum is now several years old and starting to feel dated

Dyson V7

• Dimensions: 9.8″ x 8.2″ x 49″
• Run Time: ~30 minutes
• Weight: 5.45 pounds

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The Dyson V7 is the successor to the V6 model. It offers an extended run time, by providing 10 extra minutes. Between all of the V-series Dyson models, the V7 is the quietest model when running at full power (70 dB).

Similar to the V6, the V7 can also convert between a stick vacuum and a handheld vacuum unit. In addition, there is a redesigned dust bin that makes it easier to empty and keeps you from accidentally touching the dirt as you empty.

Pros

• Still comes in at a reasonable price point for a Dyson
• Redesigned dust bin makes it easier (and cleaner) to empty over the V6
• Excellent cleaning performance on low or high pile carpet

Cons

• Relatively short run time at only 30 minutes (compared to the 60 minute run time on the V10 and V11)
• Struggles a bit more with medium and large size debris, when cleaning hardwood floors. Dyson’s newer V10, V12, and V15 do much better on hard surface flooring.
• This vacuum is now several years old and starting to feel dated

Dyson V6

• Dimensions: 9.8″ x 8.2″ x 47.5″
• Run time: ~20 minutes
• Weight: 5.1 pounds

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The Dyson V6 is the most basic model currently available in the V-series class. While the 20-minute run time may be short, it comes in at an excellent price point and retains an excellent cleaning performance across all flooring types.

In addition, the V6 model is a 2-in-1 style, meaning that it can operate as an upright stick vacuum or a portable handheld.

Pros

• Comes in at an affordable price point for a Dyson
• Provides excellent cleaning performance on all floor types
• Converts between a stick vacuum or a portable handheld

Cons

• Only has a 20-minute run time, which may be a little short for larger homes or big jobs
• Struggled a bit with the large cereal debris test, during our tests
• This vacuum is now several years old and starting to feel dated

Shark Stratos Cordless vs. Vertex DuoClean vs. Dyson V11 vs. Dyson V15

There are quite a few different models between these three cordless vacuums so for further clarification, we’re going to be looking at the Shark Vertex DuoClean vs. Shark Stratos Cordless vs. Dyson V11 vs. Dyson V15.

SIZE | The Shark Stratos Cordless is the longest of the four, with the Dyson V11 and V15 being in second, and finally the Vertex being the shortest. Both of the Shark vacuums are wider and deeper than the Dysons as well. The Stratos comes in at 8.9 pounds while the Vertex weighs 9.0 pounds. The Dyson V11 weighs only 6.68 pounds and V15 weights 6.8 pounds.

This makes the V11 and V15 a little easier to maneuver and get around.

HOW IT CLEANS | Both the Vertex and Stratos use a dual powdered brushroll system that combines a standard bristle brushroll with a soft roller brushroll to help capture large and fine debris types. In addition, Shark upgraded their DuoClean brushroll in 2020 to add rubberized paddles.

By comparison, the Dyson V11 comes with a single multi-surface cleaning head with 3 manual height adjustment options. If you do have lots of hard surfaces in your home you could add a soft roller brush cleaning head.

The V15 comes with 2 cleaning heads, a multi-surface cleaning head and the laser fluffy cleaning head (for hard surface flooring).

BATTERY | The Dyson V11 and V15 use a 3,600 mAh battery and can run for up to 60 minutes. In our run time tests, we found the V11 was able to run for 80 minutes on eco mode, while the V15 ran for 68.5 minutes on eco.

The Shark Vertex battery runs for up to 60 minutes while the Stratos has the longest runtime with 78:50 minutes of life on eco mode.

Both Shark and Dyson utilize a click-in battery system. This allows to own multiple batteries to extend run time even further.

The Biggest Difference

• The Shark Vertex DuoClean and Stratos have an interesting feature of being able to bend over 180° for easy storage or inversely to squeeze under furniture, beds, or tables—something unique to Shark.
• The Shark Stratos Cordless comes equipped with an odor neutralization system and Clean Sense IQ which automatically adjusts the suction based on debris and floor type.
• The Dyson V11 has the longest run time at up to 80 minutes on a single battery. It also has more suction power than Shark at 185 AW.
• The Dyson V15 has the most suction power of any cordless vacuum on the market at 230 AW. It also has an advanced particulate sensor, showing you exactly what / how much you’re cleaning up.

Shark vs. Dyson – Upright Vacuum Comparisons

Both Shark and Dyson manufacture and design upright vacuum models, in addition to cordless stick vacuums. Amidst popular marketing campaigns, brand awareness, and popular fads, it can be hard to know which model is best for you and your family.

Shark vs. Dyson: What’s the real truth?

Honestly, the real truth is that both Shark and Dyson could be right for you. They each have good models with slightly different features.

Shark offers five main upright vacuums:

• Shark Rotator
• Shark Navigator
• Shark APEX
• Shark Vertex
• Shark Stratos

Dyson offers three main upright vacuums:

• Dyson Ball Animal 3
• Dyson Ball Animal 2
• Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2

Of course, there are additional variations and sub-models within those overarching categories. Even so, the above 8 major model types make up the core of both Shark & Dyson’s upright line.

COMPARISON: Want to see Shark Navigator vs. Rotator up close? Check out this complete comparison to get the full rundown of these two models.

It should be no surprise that Dyson bases their design of upright vacuum of the cyclonic technology and patented “Dyson Ball”.

By comparison, the Shark upright models are a bit more traditional in appearance, but they still provide excellent cleaning performance.

Shark Stratos Upright

• Dimensions: 10.6″ x 11.0″ 46.5″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 17.2 pounds

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The Shark Stratos is the culmination of all the knowledge Shark has gained from working on vacuums. It showed excellent performance in all of our tests, removing 98.9% of all debris by weight, avoiding hair tangles, and completely cleaning up the pet hair from carpet.

It comes with various tools and accessories that help to improve the cleaning experience. A notable addition is the odor neutralization system which adds pleasant smells while you are vacuuming.

Pros

• Excellent cleaning performance with 98.9% removal by weight
• Handles long hair without tangles
• Great for pet hair
• Fantastic usability with a variety of tools
• Odor neutralizer for better smells while cleaning

Cons

• Slightly struggled with sugar on high pile carpet, removing 95.3% by weight

Shark Vertex DuoClean

• Dimensions: 12″ x 10″ x 46.5″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 16.4 pounds

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The Shark Vertex DuoClean (AZ2002) launched in late 2020 and is Shark’s 2nd best upright vacuum (2nd only to the Stratos).

It’s equipped with a DuoClean brushroll in addition to Shark’s new “Power Fins”. These are rubberized paddles on the primary brushroll that are designed to help agitate and remove additional debris.

During our tests the Vertex DuoClean dominated our cleaning tests, removing 99.4% of total debris. The Vertex is a big, powerful upright that’s at the top of Shark’s line.

Pros

• Fantastic cleaning performance, removing 99.4% of debris during our cleaning tests
• Build quality is a clear and significant step up compared to Shark’s more budget-friendly Rotator & Navigator lines
• DuoClean brushroll works well on both hard and carpeted surfaces

Cons

• On the more expensive side
• Dust bin is on the smaller size at 0.94 L (smaller than Shark’s APEX and Dyson’s flagship uprights)

RELATED – See how Shark’s top models compared in our Vertex vs. APEX comparison.

Shark APEX DuoClean

• Dimensions: 12.5″ x 12″ x 46″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 16.3 pounds

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The Shark APEX DuoClean upright vacuum cleaner features two of Shark’s proudest technologies— APEX and DuoClean.

The APEX technology includes features like fingertip controls, LED lights, improvements to the allergy seal, and overall a quieter vacuum compared to the Shark Navigator and Rotator models.

DuoClean technology is basically just a soft roller brush that is designed to work with the traditional brushroll to help suck up large debris or bare floor cleaning.

Pros

• Controls built into the handle of the vacuum
• DuoClean cleaning head offers improved suction on bare floors or large debris messes
• 2-in-1 design offers upright performance or lift-away portability

Cons

• Higher price point than the Shark Navigator or Rotator series
• Heavier than the Shark Navigator and Shark Rotator models as well

Dyson Ball Animal 3

• Dimensions: 11.0″ x 15.5″ 42.2″
• Power: 35′ cord
• Weight: 17.4 pounds

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The Dyson Ball Animal 3 improves upon an already successful formula to create a vacuum with fantastic results. In our tests, its powerful 290 AW of suction was able to remove 99.4% of all debris across 3 different floor types. In addition, it handled long and pet hair with ease, avoiding tangles.

The most notable improvement is the adjustable cleaning head. By simply moving a switch you can raise / lower a gate on the front of the cleaning head, allowing more room and adjusting suction power.

Pros

• 99.4% removal rate in our cleaning tests
• Cleaning head can be adjusted for different floor and debris types
• Variable suction through adjustable cleaning head (allows it to more easily clean varied carpet and rug types)
• Handles pet hair easily

Cons

• Slightly smaller dustbin (compared to previous model)
• Can be hard to find

Dyson Ball Animal 2

• Dimensions: 15.3″ x 13.4″ x 42.1″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 17.35 pounds

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The Dyson Ball Animal 2 upright vacuum is a great option for pet owners. It features an XL dust bin with over 2 L of capacity, cyclone suction technology, swivel steering, and an on-board extension hose.

This vacuum comes with a washable lifetime filter, a motorized turbine tool, a stair tool, combination tool, and high-reach wand for hard-to-reach places.

Pros

• Washable filter and HEPA filtration helps keep pet dander and allergens at a minimum
• Includes a wide range of accessories, providing great versatility in cleaning
• Powerful suction at 227 AW
• Great swivel steering with the “Dyson Ball”

Cons

• Can create too much suction on thick / high pile carpets.
• Heavier than all the Shark upright models listed above.

Dyson Ball MultiFloor 2

• Dimensions: 15.6″ x 13.4″ x 41.9″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 15.6 pounds

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The Dyson Multi Floor 2 is a powerful upright designed to seamlessly transition across multi-surface flooring. This model uses the same cyclone technology that Dyson is known for.

It’s about 2 lbs lighter than the Dyson Animal 2 and comes with similar accessories—the high reach wand, washable lifetime filter, stair tool, and combination too.

Pros

• Swivel steering with the Dyson ball design
• Lighter than the Dyson Ball Animal 2 upright model
• Powerful suction with patented Dyson cyclone suction technology

Cons

• As a Dyson, the price point is higher than most of the Shark models
• Smaller dust bin than the Dyson Ball Animal 2 (but larger than the Shark Navigator and Rotator)
• Does not convert to a portable handheld like the Shark Lift-Away models

Shark Navigator

• Dimensions: 15″ x 11.4″ x 45.5″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 13.7 pounds

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The Shark Navigator is a more traditional looking vacuum, but offers a slew of features. This vacuum is a 2-in-1, meaning that it can run as a standard upright or the lift-away canister can be removed for a more portable style.

The Navigator features an XL dust bin, on-board accessories, and a comfortable handle that makes it easy to use the extension wand and hose for areas that are hard to reach.

Pros

• 2-in-1 body style makes this vacuum versatile for many jobs around the home
• XL dust bin capacity can handle the messes of larger homes
• Includes a large variety of accessories and on-board attachments

Cons

• Lacks some of the fancier bells and whistles of the Shark Rotator Pro
• Struggles with cleaning high pile carpet, especially large debris types

Shark Rotator

• Dimensions: 12.2″ x 12.2″ x 45.7″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 15.5 pounds

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The Shark Rotator upright vacuum offers a few more bells and whistles, over the Shark Navigator series. The Rotator features LED headlamps, swivel steering, and text notations for easy usability.

As a trade-off, the dust bin capacity of the Shark Rotator is about half that of the Shark Navigator series and the overall unit is about 2 pounds heavier.

Pros

• Added features like LED headlamps and on-machine text labels for improved usability
• Great cleaning performance on all floor types and against all debris (except for cereal on high carpet)
• 2-in-1 design functions as a traditional upright and portable canister vacuum

Cons

• About half the dust bin capacity of the Shark Navigator series
• About two pounds heavier than the Shark Navigator as well

Dyson Big Ball Cinetic

• Dimensions: 17.2″ x 13.4″ x 43.3″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 19 pounds

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The Dyson Big Ball Cinetic upright vacuum is the largest upright vacuums that Dyson manufactures, to date. It offers extremely powerful suction and is filter-free. Depending on the exact model you get, the accessories with this vacuum may vary.

The Cinetic Animal and Allergy comes with a combination tool, stair tool, mattress tool, reach under tool, multi-angle brush, carbon fiber soft dusting brush, and a tool bag to hold it all.

By comparison, the Cinetic Multi Floor model simply comes with the combination tool and stair tool (but costs significantly less as well).

Pros

• No filter to maintain helps prevent suction loss and decreases maintenance costs and time
• Large dust bin capacity for cleaning big areas
• The Animal + Allergy model comes with many different accessories

Cons

• High price tag for an upright vacuum cleaner
• Much larger and heavier compared to other upright models in its class

Dyson Small Ball

• Dimensions: 14.1″ x 11″ x 31.7″
• Power: 30′ cord
• Weight: 12.15 pounds

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The Dyson Small Ball is the smallest, most compact upright manufactured by Dyson, at this time. This model is the only one with a telescoping handle / wand for easy storage, while retaining powerful suction and the features that make it a Dyson.

The Small Ball model still uses cyclone technology and the Dyson Ball. The ball is a bit smaller than the Big Ball models, which makes it easier to maneuver throughout the home.

The DC50 Animal compact was the predecessor to the Small Ball model. You can check out our full review of the DC50 here. It has many of the same features.

Pros

• Smaller body and lighter weight vs. many other Dyson models
• Telescoping handle makes it easy to store this model in a small closet or other tight space
• Still has standard Dyson features like the cyclone suction, Dyson Ball swivel steering, and a washable filter

Cons

• Smaller dust bin capacity at only 0.8 L
• Cheaper than many of the other full-size upright vacuums, but still not inexpensive by any means

Dyson vs. Shark Rotator Lift Away

While there are many upright models, we’ll be looking specifically at the Dyson Animal 3 vs. Shark Rotator Pro Lift-Away in this section.

SIZE | The Shark Rotator is over 3″ taller, but narrower and slimmer throughout the body and base. The Shark is also about two pounds lighter than the Dyson Animal 2 upright. With that in mind though, the Dyson has a dust bin capacity of about 0.3 L more than the Shark (1.7 L vs. 1.4 L)

HOW IT CLEANS | Both of these uprights have a central brushroll that agitates and collects dirt, dust, and debris with advanced swivel steering for nice maneuverability. They both also have extension wands and hoses, although the Dyson extension handle feels a bit awkward when reaching high or narrow spaces. In addition, Dyson has an adjustable cleaning head that allows for variable suction.

ACCESSORIES | The Shark Rotator Lift-Away comes with a hardwood floor tool, dusting brush, crevice tool, upholstery tool, pet power brush, and HEPA filtration. The Dyson Animal 3 comes with a motorbar cleaning head, a stair tool, the combination tool, and a lifetime washable filter.

The Biggest Difference

• The Dyson Animal 3 comes with a lifetime washable filter and more suction power (by a large margin). It’s also heavier, more expensive, and has an adjustable cleaning head.
• The Shark Rotator Lift-Away is lighter weight, has a lift-out canister for mobile cleaning, and notably less expensive than the Animal 3.

Shark vs. Dyson For Pet Hair

Both Shark and Dyson offer many models designed specifically for pets.

The best vacuum for pets may be different for each person, depending on your pet and lifestyle, but there are some features that all great pet vacuums have in common.

Here is a list of five things to look for in the best vacuum for pets:

1. Large capacity dust bins
2. HEPA filtration
3. Tangle-free attachments or brushrolls
4. Swivel steering to maneuver into hard-to-reach places
5. Upholstery tool for cleaning pet hair from pet beds or sofas

Large Capacity Dust Bins

The Shark Rotator, Shark APEX, Shark Stratos Upright, Dyson V11 Outsize, Dyson Outsize, Dyson Ball Animal 3, and Dyson Ball Animal 2 both have large capacity dust bins of over 1 L. 

The Dyson Ball Animal 2 stores as much as 2.1 L. Larger homes or homes with high levels of pet traffic could really benefit from these larger bins.

Of course, if you mainly use your pet vacuum for upholstery, car interiors, or another relatively small space, the smaller capacity dust bins may still work just fine for you.

HEPA filtration

The Dyson Ball Animal 3, Dyson V12, Dyson V15, Dyson V11, Dyson V10, Shark APEX DuoClean, Shark Vertex DuoClean, Shark Rocket Pet Pro, Shark Stratos Upright, and Dyson Ball Animal 2 all integrate HEPA filtration systems. 

Dyson utilizes lifetime washable filters that can be cleaned by simply rinsing them out with cold water. This saves maintenance costs and helps to prevent the build-up of allergens or dander.

By comparison, the Shark vacuums use a combination of HEPA, felt, and foam filters.

Some are washable and others are disposable. Typically, the more expensive Shark models (like Stratos, APEX, and Vertex) utilize the washable filters. While less expensive models utilize disposable.

Tangle free attachments and brushrolls

All of the vacuums listed in the table below all come with motorized pet hair attachments. 

These use a specially designed brushroll or turbine tool to help capture pet hair, without the mess and tangles that can frequently happen with traditional systems.

Swivel steering

Being able to adapt to unique environments and pet obstacles can be an important part of a good pet vacuum. Swivel steering is the ability for a vacuum to do just that. 

The Shark Stratos Cordless, Shark Rocket Pet Pro, Dyson V10, V11, V12 and V15 have the best swivel steering of the vacuums listed below.

Not only can it turn on a dime, but it can also lean nearly 180 degrees back without the cleaning head lifting off the floor, if you need to squeeze under furniture or beds.

The Shark Rotator, Shark APEX, Shark Vertex, Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2, Dyson Ball Animal 3, and Dyson Ball Animal 2 use traditional swivel steering as an upright vacuum.

Upholstery tool

Many pet owners find their furry friends enjoying a warm spot on the couch or cozying up on the bed.

The Shark Stratos Upright, Dyson Ball Animal 3, Dyson Ball Animal 2, Dyson V15, Dyson V11, Shark APEX DuoClean, and Shark Vertex DuoClean include an upholstery tool. 

This tool is especially great at removing pet hair from upholstery, bedding, or other soft surfaces.

MORE: For more information, check out our complete guide on How to Remove Dog Hair here.

Here are some of the top Shark and Dyson models that we would recommend for removing pet hair.

Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro+

• Dimensions: 6.5″ x 6″ x 20″
• Run Time: ~15 minutes
• Weight: 7.9 pounds

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The Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus (CH951) is Shark’s flagship handheld vacuum. It’s cordless, light weight at 2.8 pounds, and has an XL dust bin (0.43 L).

It uses a self-cleaning brushroll that’s designed to prevent tangles for both pet and human hair.

The UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus is the successor to the legacy Shark Pet Perfect 2 (largely discontinued). By any measure, the new Pet Pro Plus seems to be a significant upgrade.

Pros

• Ultra lightweight at 2.8 pounds
• Realtively large dust bin (for a handheld) at 0.43 L
• Self-cleaning brushroll that prevents hair tangles

Cons

• Fairly expensive for a handheld vacuum
• Fabric filter (not washable and not HEPA)

Shark vs. Dyson – Vacuums by Type

The following sections break apart the collection of Dyson and Shark vacuums by type, calling out the most popular models from each manufacturer and any special features.

Shark vs. Dyson – Upright Vacuums

Both Dyson and Shark offer a few upright models, varying in price from under the $$ tier to well within the $$$ tier. You pay for more features, higher suction, on-board accessories, additional cleaning heads, etc.

Most Shark and Dyson upright models include large capacity dust bins, on-board accessories, an extension wand and hose, and advanced swivel steering.

Shark Stratos Upright

Shark Vertex DuoClean

Shark Apex DuoClean

Shark Navigator

Shark Rotator

Dyson Ball Animal 3

Dyson Ball Animal 2

Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2

Dyson Small Ball

Dyson Cinetic Big Ball

Shark vs. Dyson – Stick Vacuums

Stick vacuums are arguably the most popular models from Shark and Dyson, with both companies offering many different styles, features, and price points.

Corded vs. cordless, 2-in-1 vs. traditional stick vacuum, standard brushroll vs. soft roller brushroll for cleaning large debris— select your features, narrow down models, and let’s find the best choice for you.

Dyson V15

Dyson V12

Dyson V11

Dyson Outsize

Dyson V11 Outsize

Dyson V10

Dyson V8

Dyson V7

Dyson V6

Shark Stratos Cordless

Shark Stratos Corded

Shark Vertex DuoClean

Shark Rocket Pet Pro+

Shark Rocket DeluxePro

Shark Rocket ION

Shark Navigator Freestyle

Shark vs. Dyson – Robot Vacuums

Shark and Dyson both offer robot vacuums; Shark having the AI, IQ, and ION robots and Dyson having the 360 Heurist. The Shark robot vacuums come in within the $$ to $$$ tier, while the Dyson 360 tops the charts at in the $$$$$ budget tier per unit.

Shark AI Ultra 2-in-1

Shark AI Ultra

Shark IQ R100AE

Shark ION RV871

Shark ION AV751

Shark ION 720

Like Shark’s line of uprights and stick vacuums, Shark produces a TON of different robot vacuum models. We’ve included the most popular versions above, but there are plenty of others.

Here’s a quick run down of Shark’s less popular robot models:

• Shark AV752 – basic robot, appears to be exactly the same as the AV751, except it’s white instead of black.
• Shark AV970 – Includes more advanced navigation, recharge and resume, improved suction, and a self cleaning brushroll.
• Shark AV993 – More or less the exact same feature set included on the AV970.
• Shark RV2001 – Includes everything from the AV970 / 993, but also adds home mapping and an improved brushroll (with powerfins).
• Shark RV2001WD – Does everything the RV2001 does, but also mops.

Dyson Robots

While Shark offers a nice selection of robot vacuums, Dyson is quite frankly pretty lacking. Currently, Dyson only makes one robot, the 360 Heurist. However, even the Heurist has had a very limited global release.

Dyson 360 Eye

Dyson 360 Heurist

Shark vs. Dyson – Handheld Vacuums

Vacuums that are strictly handheld models are few and far between within the Shark or Dyson brand. More often, there are stick vacuums or even upright vacuums that double as handheld units.

The design of a 2-in-1 vacuum increases vacuum versatility and keeps you from having to buy different products for every small need within your home.

Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus

Shark vs. Dyson – Canister Vacuums

Historically, Shark has offered canister vacuums, but as of 2020 they seem to have discontinued all canister vacuums.

Dyson, while more known for their uprights and V-series cordless vacuums, is still producing a small selection of well reviewed canister vacuums.

Dyson Canister Vacuums

On the Dyson website, there are three main models to select from:

1. Dyson Ball
2. Dyson Big Ball
3. Dyson Cinetic Big Ball

There are two models with the Dyson Big Ball class, the Multi-Floor and the Musclehead, resulting in a total of four Dyson canister models to choose from.

Dyson Ball Multi-Floor

Dyson Big Ball Multi-Floor

Dyson Big Ball Musclehead

Dyson Cinetic Big Ball Animal

If you’re in the market for a canister vacuum specifically, I would say that Dyson takes the cake in this category, offering more canister styles with unique features.

So…Which is Better? Shark or Dyson?

Truthfully, we don’t think there is a “best”. Not 100% of the time, at least.

Both Shark and Dyson offer a wide variety of products with different features, performance levels, accessories, cleaning profiles, and price points.

This means there is a multitude of different options depending on what you actually need and desire in a new vacuum cleaner.

So how do you choose between Shark vs. Dyson?

The first question you need to answer, what type of vacuum do you need?

• Upright vacuum – this is a more traditional vacuum, highly versatile and great for cleaning lots of different areas
• Stick vacuums – these vacuums are lighter weight and more mobile, making them great for quick and easy cleans. They also usually are cordless and utilize a 2-in-1 design (for use as a stick or handheld)
• Robot vacuums – if you want a vacuum, but don’t want to do the vacuuming yourself, a robot vacuum is the way to go. These have come a long way in recent years, with their performance rivaling other vacuum types.
• Canister vacuums – if you prefer maximum power at the cost of mobility a canister vacuum is great.
• Handheld vacuums – maximum mobility, great for localized and small messes. If you opt for an upright or canister vacuum (or stick vacuum that isn’t a 2-in-1) you may want an extra handheld for quick small cleanups.

The second question you need to answer, what is your budget?

If you’re looking to spend at or over the $$$ pricing tier, chances are you’ll want to go with a Dyson. There are of course exceptions (handhelds, older models, etc.), but most Dyson vacuum models are going to be above the $$$ tier.

If you’re looking to spend less than $$$ you’ll want to go with Shark. Just as with Dyson, there are Shark’s that are more than $$$, but most tend to be less than $$$.

The third and final question, what features are important to you?

• You want a cordless vacuum that runs for the longest period of time? The Shark Stratos Cordless or Dyson V11 or Dyson V11 Outsize or Dyson V12 or Dyson V15 is for you.
• Looking for a lightweight cordless with extra maneuverability? Check out the Dyson V12 Detect Slim or the Dyson Omni.
• You want an upright vacuum, but also one that’s fairly light? Check out the Shark Navigator or Shark Rotator.
• You want a full-sized upright with a gigantic dust bin? The Dyson Ball Animal 2 has 2.1 L dust bin and the Dyson Ball Animal 3 has a 1.7 L dust bin.
• You want the DuoClean brushroll? The Shark Stratos Upright is the clear favorite, with the Shark APEX DuoClean upright or Shark Stratos Cordless as runner ups.
• You want a handheld vacuum for removing pet hair? Give Shark’s UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus a try.
• You need a budget-friendly pet vacuum? It’s hard to beat the value offered by the Shark Rocket Pet Pro.

There are lots of different models that may be better or worse, depending on the specific features that you need.

For more information on specific models and how to choose check out our Best Shark vacuums and Best Dyson vacuums.

Still can’t decide? Please drop us a comment down below. We’re happy to personally help you. We do our best to answer within 24 hours.