Cleaning your home is already a chore, but shopping for the right cleaning supplies and devices shouldn’t be. And while it’s not a big deal if you end up not liking your sponge or multi-purpose cleaner, bigger ticket items (like vacuums) are more of an investment. When it comes to household vacuum brands, two are hotly debated: Shark vs. Dyson. They float to the top of the pack and while both brands have similar, high-performance product offerings, the two aren’t created equally. If you’re stuck deciding between the two, we’re here to help.
Over the last few months (and years), the editors of House Beautiful have been testing two compatible models from each brand, the Shark Cordless Detect Pro, and the Dyson V10 Animal, to try and determine which vacuum is best for different types of cleaning personalities. If you’re looking to dive deeper into the debate of Shark vs. Dyson, or if you’re debating these two specific models, read on for a thorough review and testing of each one. We’ll go ahead and admit that both of these models, while better at different things, make cleaning days so much more enjoyable.
What Is the Difference Between Shark and Dyson?
Both brands are beloved by consumers, and you often find buyers taking strong stances for one or the other. Both brands also offer corded and cordless vacuums, pet-specific models, and bagless models. Shark typically has a lower price point, while Dyson has more high-tech features (like an accompanying app). Below, we’re breaking down the differences between the Shark Cordless Detect Pro and the Dyson V10 Animal.
Shark Vacuum Test Notes
How We Tested the Shark Cordless Detect Pro Vacuum
Digital Editor Kate McGregor used the Shark Cordless Detect Pro for over two weeks in her own home. “While I mostly have hardwood floors, I also tested the model on flatweave jute rugs (two different weave textures), and tile,” she says. “In addition to my regular vacuum cadence, which is usually twice a week, I tested the model’s power on different debris including potting soil, fabric fuzz, and food crumbs. Because this model includes a self-emptying dock, I tested the trapping and suction power after cleaning. The upholstery attachment and narrow attachment were also tested during my regular vacuum use. I do not have pets, so pet hair/dander was not a focus of my testing.”
Packaging and Setup
This Shark model came in a single box that included the cordless vacuum, additional head attachments, and the charging dock. The box weighed approximately 25 pounds and was probably two or three feet tall. “I live in an elevator apartment building, but carrying the box down the hall wasn’t as cumbersome as I had anticipated,” McGregor says. “The vacuum arrived within a week of ordering, with standard, ground shipping. I opted for no signature required, and it was delivered to my mailroom.”
Specs and Features
- Weight: 14.8 lbs. (includes dock weight)
- Product Dimensions: 14.3″ L x 10.4″ W x 43″ H
- Wattage: 240 watts
- LED Lights: Yes
- Number of Batteries Included: 1
- Voltage: 120 volts
What’s in the Box
The Shark Cordless Detect Pro comes equipped with a standard, wide vacuum head with a roller brush, an eight-inch crevice ideal for baseboards or hard-to-reach areas, and a multi-use pet brush, which I tested as an upholstery brush.
Shark’s Performance
Before vacuuming.
After one pass.
“This vacuum was surprisingly lightweight and easy to use,” McGregor says. “It’s louder than the Dyson, but I also found it to be more powerful. I really appreciate the LED light guide that illuminates every spec of dust and debris on my hardwood floors (so gross, but much needed to ensure no spot is missed). The Shark Cordless Detect Pro transitioned easily between hardwood and carpet while automatically changing its suction speed and power. In terms of cleaning power, this vacuum handled both crumbs and dust with ease. The standard wide head vacuums to each edge, so no awkward line of dust was left in the corners. Occasionally I’ll find that the head sticks in one position (straight down vs. flat on the floor) if I lift it up and then place it back on the ground. All in all, I have no complaints about the Shark vacuum, I might actually like vacuuming now.”
Cleaning and Emptying
“Unlike other self-emptying models I’ve tested (the Samsung Bespoke Jet), Shark’s version empties the vacuum’s dust canister on its own. You don’t need to prompt the device to detect or begin emptying once the cordless stick vacuum is properly docked (you’ll hear a click when placing the vacuum back in place),” McGregor says. “So far, the vacuum hasn’t held any weird smells, moisture, or other gunk in its container or dock (I often find that the dust in my bathroom’s corners is damp due to poor ventilation in the space). Because my apartment is constantly dusty, the dock gathered some dust as it’s a stationary object, I found that a standard, multi-purpose cleaner (I use Mrs. Meyer’s), and a microfiber cloth worked like a charm without damaging any of the electronic components.”
Value
The Shark Cordless Detect Pro retails for $449.99, but is currently on sale on Shark’s website for $379.99. “While there are a myriad of vacuums of similar makes for a lower price, I find this to be a very good value for the performance and self-emptying capabilities,” McGregor says. “I believe that this Shark vacuum is well worth the cost. Compared to the Dyson V10 Animal, which retails for $549.99, the Shark is $100 less expensive for what I would consider to be equal performance.”
Shark Vacuum Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight
- Self-emptying
- LED Guide Light
Cons
- Takes up more space than the Dyson dock
- Less accessories
- Longer charge time
Dyson Vacuum Test Notes
How We Tested the Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal Vacuum
Senior Commerce Editor Marina Liao has owned her Dyson Cyclone V10 Animal for nearly four years and has used it weekly. “My apartment is mostly hardwood floors, with tiles in the bathroom, and I have four rugs,” Liao says. “I also have a dog, Willow, who sheds a lot in the summertime so I wanted a Dyson that could pick up all her long white fur.” She tested the Dyson V10 animal in her regular vacuum cadence as well as on areas littered with human hair, pet hair, and crumbs.
Packaging and Setup
The Dyson vacuum also comes in one box, weighing a bit over 20 pounds. The Dyson requires more set-up than the Shark, as you need to install the charging dock onto a wall (near an outlet). This is a high-quality sticker system, so no power tools are needed. The docking station also includes slots for the additional cleaning heads.
Specs and Features
- Weight: 14.8 lbs.
- Product Dimensions: 9.8 in L x 10 in W x 49.8 in H
- Wattage: 525 watts
- LED Lights: No
- Number of Batteries Included: 1
- Voltage: 110 to 240 volts
What’s in the Box
In addition to the cordless stick vacuum, dock, and charger, you’ll receive a combination tool, crevice tool, mini motorized brush, and a soft dusting brush.
Performance
Before vacuuming.
After vacuuming.
Over the years, Liao has been very pleased with the Dyson’s performance, but it’s better suited to pet owners than general use. “My favorite attachments are the hardwood floor one and carpet-friendly heads,” Liao says. “I have used the other included heads to clean the interior of rental cars (to get rid of any dog hairs) and underneath the cushions of my sofa, but don’t find the extra attachments particularly necessary in my day-to-day life.
My one grievance about this Dyson model is that the standard head won’t pick up little crumbs, like dried rice grains or little leaf petals that fall off from my jade plant. It’s better suited for picking up hair, dander, and dust only.” The battery is powerful and suction is strong, so much so that transitioning between carpet and hardwoods can result in a moment of stickiness. “In terms of suction power, it’s strong but over the years, I’ve noticed it’ll die pretty quickly on me when I use it at the highest suction power, like after 15 minutes,” she says. “I may have accidentally dropped the Dyson on its side multiple times over the years…resulting it being a bit wonky to operate now.”
Cleaning and Emptying
The Dyson holds all of the dust and debris in a clear, cylindrical container just beneath the handle. Same as all models from the brand, you must empty the container yourself, directly into your trash can. “I hate emptying this thing in my apartment because dust and debris will fly out and make me sneeze,” Liao says. “I take my garbage can out onto the balcony and shake out the container there. Since this becomes a whole ordeal, I’m definitely considering a self-emptying device for my next vacuum purchase.” Depending on the size of your home, or how much debris you’re vacuuming, you may find yourself needing to empty your Dyson multiple times in one session. This can be annoying for some users. “In my experience, I have found it helpful to empty the vacuum between rooms,” McGregor adds.
Liao also shares that the Dyson has multiple parts you need to clean in order to keep it in good shape. “Previously, I used the Dyson to suck up some frozen yogurt (my dog was licking her froyo on a mat and some flakes went onto the floor) and that was the wrong move,” she says. “The yogurt got caught on the filter and the smell never really washed off despite my best scrubbing and soap techniques. Now every time I vacuum, a faint dog hair plus sour yogurt smell emits from it. I’ll probably try to do a deep clean on all the parts one day, but the lesson learned here is that I need to take better care of my Dyson!”
Value
The Dyson V10 Animal retails for $539.99, however, because it is an older model, you can often find refurbished versions for $299. “When my partner and I moved into our apartment together four years ago, we split up the purchases and he was very adamant about getting a Dyson,” Liao says. “I had heard good things about the brand, but truth be told, I didn’t see why people would spend hundreds of dollars on something that just sucks up dust. Then, the Dyson V10 animal came into my life. Before this, I only had a Roomba so this was my first handheld cordless vac. What I like most about the vac is that it comes with multiple head attachments, ranging from carpet and floor-friendly heads to ones suited for the crevices of your car and underneath the couch cushions.” She adds that the quality of the Dyson’s make and ease of use make up for the high price. However, she wishes the vacuum had a bit more longevity, and maintained its power after only four years of use, given the entry cost.
Dyson Vacuum Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality pieces
- Powerful suction
- Great for pet hair and dander
Cons
- Low battery life on high power modes
- Holds smells if you accidentally suck up wet stuff like frozen yogurt
The Verdict: Is Shark or Dyson Better?
At the end of the day, the choice between these two vacuums comes down to what kind of debris you have more of. If your kitchen is full of crumbs, opt for the Shark Cordless Detect Pro. However, if your beloved pet is known for high shedding, the Dyson V10 Animal is better for your home. Another point to consider is allergens. If you’re one where cleaning causes a flurry of sniffles and sneezing, the Shark’s sealed, emptying canister can help eliminate airborne particles. The Dyson is better for quicker emptying and takes up less closet real estate. These two vacuum models are highly comparable in terms of power, charging time, and even price. Where they differ, is their specialties.
