Shark AV1010AE vs AV911S: Self-Emptying Robot Vacuum Showdown

Robot vacuums have become increasingly popular, offering a convenient way to keep floors clean with minimal effort. Among the many brands and models available, Shark stands out as a strong contender with its innovative features and competitive pricing. The Shark AV1010AE and AV911S are two popular self-emptying robot vacuums that offer a hands-free cleaning experience. Choosing between these two models can be challenging, as they share many similarities but also have some key differences that may make one a better fit for your specific needs.

This comparison dives deep into the Shark AV1010AE and AV911S, analyzing their features, performance, design, and value to help you make an informed decision. We’ll explore their strengths and weaknesses, providing data-driven insights to determine which robot vacuum reigns supreme in various scenarios. Whether you’re a busy professional, a pet owner, or simply someone who wants to automate their cleaning routine, this comprehensive guide will help you choose the right Shark robot vacuum for your home.

Quick Verdict

• Shark AV1010AE: A solid choice for those who prioritize longer self-emptying capacity (up to 45 days) and improved carpet cleaning performance compared to older models. It’s also suitable for larger homes where faster mapping is beneficial.
• Shark AV911S: A great option for users who want a reliable self-emptying robot vacuum at a potentially lower price point. It’s well-suited for homes with mostly bare floors and those who don’t require the latest features.

Short Review of Shark AV1010AE

The Shark AV1010AE IQ Robot Vacuum is designed for convenience and ease of use. Its standout feature is the XL self-emptying base, which can hold up to 45 days’ worth of dirt and debris, significantly reducing the frequency of emptying. It offers advanced navigation, allowing it to efficiently map your home and clean specific rooms on demand via the SharkClean app or voice control with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.

This model excels at multi-surface cleaning, thanks to its multi-surface brushroll that effectively tackles dirt, debris, and pet hair on both carpets and hard floors. Its improved carpet cleaning performance compared to previous models makes it a reliable choice for homes with a mix of flooring types. The AV1010AE is also equipped with faster mapping capabilities, enabling it to create a quicker and more accurate map of your home for efficient cleaning.

Short Review of Shark AV911S

The Shark AV911S EZ Robot Vacuum is a user-friendly and efficient cleaning solution. Its key feature is the self-emptying base, which holds up to 30 days of dirt and debris, providing a hands-free cleaning experience. It cleans methodically, row by row, ensuring complete coverage of your floors.

Equipped with strong suction power, the AV911S effectively tackles both large and small debris, as well as pet hair. Its multi-surface brushroll allows it to seamlessly transition between carpets and hard floors, pulling in dirt and debris from all surfaces. The AV911S also offers app and voice control, allowing you to easily start cleaning with Google Assistant, Alexa, or a simple tap in the app.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Self-Emptying Capacity: AV1010AE holds up to 45 days of debris vs. 30 days for the AV911S.
• Carpet Cleaning: AV1010AE has improved carpet cleaning performance compared to the AV911S.
• Mapping Speed: AV1010AE offers faster mapping for quicker initial home mapping.
• Floor Sensor: The AV911S is equipped with an additional floor sensor to improve mapping.
• Price: The AV911S may be available at a lower price point compared to the AV1010AE.

Specifications Comparison

Price Comparison

The Shark AV1010AE typically retails for a slightly higher price than the AV911S, reflecting its enhanced features such as the larger self-emptying base and improved carpet cleaning. However, prices can vary significantly depending on retailers, promotions, and seasonal sales.

• Shark AV1010AE: Expect to pay around $300 – $500, depending on sales and promotions.
• Shark AV911S: Generally priced between $250 – $400, making it a more budget-friendly option.

Value Proposition:

• If you prioritize a longer self-emptying period and better carpet cleaning, the AV1010AE offers a better value despite the higher price.
• If you’re looking for a reliable self-emptying robot vacuum at a lower cost, and your home is primarily hard floors, the AV911S provides excellent value.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Shark AV1010AE and AV911S share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek, low-profile build that allows them to navigate under furniture with ease. They both have a circular shape with a bumper on the front to detect obstacles.

• Materials: Both models are constructed primarily from durable plastic.
• Aesthetics: Both have a modern, minimalist design that blends well with most home decors. The AV911S is only available in Gray.
• Build Quality: Both are generally well-built and feel sturdy.
• Ergonomics: The self-emptying bases are designed for easy emptying and maintenance.

Performance Face-Off

Cleaning Performance on Hard Floors

Both robot vacuums perform well on hard floors, effectively picking up dust, dirt, and small debris. The multi-surface brushroll is designed to agitate and lift particles from hard surfaces, ensuring a thorough clean.

Cleaning Performance on Carpets

The Shark AV1010AE has an edge in carpet cleaning performance compared to the AV911S. The AV1010AE’s improved carpet cleaning capabilities allow it to dig deeper into carpet fibers and extract more embedded dirt and pet hair. The AV911S is still capable on carpets, but may require more frequent cleaning or multiple passes to achieve the same level of cleanliness as the AV1010AE.

Pet Hair Cleaning

Both models are suitable for homes with pets, thanks to their strong suction power and multi-surface brushrolls that effectively capture pet hair. However, homes with heavy shedding pets may benefit from the AV1010AE’s improved carpet cleaning, as it can better remove pet hair from carpets and rugs.

Navigation and Mapping

The Shark AV1010AE utilizes advanced navigation technology to efficiently map your home and clean in a methodical, row-by-row pattern. Its faster mapping speed allows it to quickly create a comprehensive map of your home, enabling you to select specific rooms or areas for targeted cleaning. The AV911S also offers row-by-row cleaning for complete coverage.

Edge Cleaning

Both models are equipped with side brushes that help to sweep dirt and debris from edges and corners into the path of the main brushroll. This ensures thorough cleaning along walls and in hard-to-reach areas.

Special Features Comparison

• Shark AV1010AE:
  • XL Self-Empty Base: Holds up to 45 days of dirt and debris.
  • Faster Mapping: Creates a quicker total home map compared to previous models.
  • Improved Carpet Cleaning: Enhanced performance on carpets compared to older models.
• Shark AV911S:
  • Self-Empty Base: Holds up to 30 days of dirt and debris.
  • Recharge & Resume: Returns to the base, recharges, and resumes cleaning where it left off.
  • Perfect for Pets: Multi-stage filtration system captures dust, dander, and allergens.

Usability and User Experience

Both the Shark AV1010AE and AV911S are designed for ease of use, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly app.

• Setup: Both models are easy to set up and connect to the SharkClean app.
• App Interface: The SharkClean app allows you to schedule cleanings, select specific rooms, create no-go zones, and monitor the robot’s cleaning progress.
• Voice Control: Both models are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing you to start and stop cleanings with voice commands.
• Maintenance: The self-emptying bases require occasional emptying, and the brushrolls and filters need periodic cleaning and replacement.

Maintenance and Longevity

• Maintenance: Both models require regular cleaning of the brushroll, filters, and dustbin.
• Consumable Parts: Replacement filters and brushrolls are available for both models.
• Warranty: Shark offers a standard one-year limited warranty for both the AV1010AE and AV911S.
• Expected Lifespan: With proper maintenance, both robot vacuums can provide several years of reliable service.

Who Should Buy Shark AV1010AE?

• Users who want a longer self-emptying period (up to 45 days).
• Homes with a mix of hard floors and carpets, where improved carpet cleaning is beneficial.
• Larger homes where faster mapping is advantageous.
• Those who don’t mind paying a premium for enhanced features.

Who Should Buy Shark AV911S?

• Users who want a reliable self-emptying robot vacuum at a lower price point.
• Homes with mostly bare floors or low-pile carpets.
• Those who don’t require the latest features or the longest self-emptying capacity.
• Users who appreciate a simple and straightforward user experience.

Final Recommendation

Both the Shark AV1010AE and AV911S are excellent self-emptying robot vacuums that offer a convenient and hands-free cleaning experience. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.

• If you prioritize a longer self-emptying period, improved carpet cleaning, and faster mapping, the Shark AV1010AE is the better choice.
• If you’re looking for a more affordable option that still offers reliable self-emptying and effective cleaning on hard floors, the Shark AV911S is a great value.