Shark AX912 vs NV800: Cleaning Battle

The Shark AX912 and NV800 are both corded upright vacuums designed for whole-home cleaning, offering features like a lift-away canister for enhanced versatility. These models target consumers seeking powerful suction and the ability to transition seamlessly between carpets and hard floors. The AX912, part of the APEX DuoClean series, emphasizes advanced cleaning performance and noise reduction, while the NV800, from the DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Speed series, focuses on a lightweight design and ease of use. Deciding between these vacuums involves considering factors like cleaning power, maneuverability, special features, and overall user experience.

For consumers who prioritize powerful suction and advanced features, the AX912 might be the preferred choice. The APEX series is known for its strong performance and noise reduction technology. However, for users who value a lightweight design and easy maneuverability, the NV800 could be a better fit. Both vacuums offer the convenience of a lift-away canister, making them suitable for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas. Ultimately, the decision depends on individual cleaning needs and preferences.

Quick Verdict

• For superior overall cleaning performance: Choose the Shark AX912.
• For a lighter and more maneuverable option: Choose the Shark NV800.
• For users needing effective pet hair removal: Both are good choices, but consider the specific attachments included.

Short review of Shark AX912

The Shark AX912, part of the APEX DuoClean series, is designed as a powerful upright vacuum cleaner. It features DuoClean technology, which uses two brush rolls working together to capture large particles, pull in piles, and directly engage hard floors. It also boasts advanced anti-allergen complete seal technology, trapping dust and allergens. The powered lift-away technology allows users to detach the canister. This makes it easier to clean under furniture and above floors. The AX912 also incorporates noise reduction technology, aiming to provide a quieter cleaning experience.

The AX912 is known for its strong suction and versatile cleaning capabilities. The Active-Glide technology enhances maneuverability on various floor types. It includes multiple attachments such as a multiFLEX under appliance wand, anti-allergen dust brush, and pet multi-tool, addressing various cleaning needs. While it offers robust performance, it may be slightly heavier. Some users have also reported issues with the durability of certain components. Overall, the Shark AX912 is best for those who prioritize powerful cleaning and advanced features in a compact form.

Short review of Shark NV800

The Shark NV800 DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Speed is an upright vacuum cleaner designed for efficient and versatile cleaning. It features DuoClean technology, which combines a bristle brush and a soft brushroll to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors. The powered lift-away design allows the canister to detach, making it easier to clean stairs, upholstery, and under furniture. The NV800 also includes LED headlights on the nozzle to help spot hidden debris.

The NV800 is known for its lightweight design and ease of maneuverability. It features advanced swivel steering for excellent control around obstacles. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, along with a HEPA filter, traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum. User reviews often praise its performance on both hard floors and carpets, as well as its convenient fingertip controls for switching between cleaning modes. While some users have noted that the plastic parts may not feel as durable as higher-end models, the NV800 offers a good balance of performance, features, and value for many households.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Weight: The NV800 is generally lighter than the AX912, enhancing maneuverability.
• Cleaning Power: The AX912 is known for having stronger suction and more advanced cleaning technology.
• Noise Reduction: The AX912 incorporates noise reduction technology for quieter operation.
• Attachments: The specific attachments included may vary, affecting versatility for different cleaning tasks.
• Durability: Some users report that the AX912 may have some durability issues.

Specifications Comparison

Price Comparison

Pricing for the Shark AX912 and NV800 can vary depending on the retailer, promotions, and condition (new, used, or refurbished). Both models typically fall into the mid-range price category for upright vacuums. The AX912 may sometimes be priced slightly higher due to its advanced features like noise reduction and Active-Glide technology. To find the most current and accurate pricing, it is recommended to check major online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, and the Shark official website.

When evaluating the value proposition, consider the features each model offers relative to its price. The AX912 may offer a better cost-to-feature ratio for those who prioritize powerful suction and advanced technology. However, the NV800 could be a more economical choice for users who value a lightweight design and essential cleaning capabilities. Both vacuums offer a lift-away feature and DuoClean technology, providing versatility for different cleaning tasks.

Design and Build Quality

The Shark AX912 and NV800 both feature a similar upright design with a lift-away canister for portable cleaning. The AX912 is designed with a focus on aesthetics, featuring a sleek look and incorporating noise reduction technology for quieter operation. The NV800 emphasizes a lightweight build for enhanced maneuverability and ease of use.

In terms of materials, both vacuums primarily use plastic components. Some user reviews suggest that the AX912 may have some durability issues with certain parts. The NV800, while generally reliable, may not feel as robust as higher-end models. Ergonomically, both vacuums are designed for comfortable use, with features like swivel steering and easy-to-reach controls. The specific design elements and build quality can influence the overall user experience and longevity of each model.

Performance Face-Off

Cleaning Performance on Hard Floors

Both the Shark AX912 and NV800 are equipped with DuoClean technology, which combines a bristle brush and a soft brushroll, making them effective at picking up both large and small debris on hard floors. The soft brushroll is particularly useful for capturing fine dust and particles, while the bristle brush helps to agitate and lift larger debris.

Cleaning Performance on Carpets

On carpets, the AX912’s stronger suction and advanced cleaning technology may give it a slight edge in deep cleaning and removing embedded dirt and pet hair. The DuoClean brush system works to agitate carpet fibers and lift debris effectively. The NV800 also performs well on carpets, with the bristle brushroll providing sufficient agitation for general cleaning tasks.

Pet Hair Removal

Both vacuums are designed to handle pet hair effectively, with features like the pet multi-tool attachment. The AX912’s stronger suction may provide better performance in removing deeply embedded pet hair from carpets and upholstery. The NV800 also does a good job of removing pet hair, with the motorized brush head and other attachments aiding in the process.

Edge Cleaning

Both models are designed to provide decent edge cleaning capabilities, allowing users to clean close to walls and furniture. However, the specific design of the brush heads and suction power may influence how well each vacuum performs in this area.

Special Features Comparison

• Shark AX912: The AX912 includes MultiFLEX technology, allowing the wand to bend for cleaning under furniture. It also features noise reduction technology, making it quieter than many other vacuums.
• Shark NV800: The NV800 features LED headlights on the nozzle, providing visibility in dark spaces. It also has fingertip controls for easily switching between hard floor and carpet modes.

Usability and User Experience

The Shark NV800 is generally considered easier to use due to its lighter weight and enhanced maneuverability. Its fingertip controls also make it simple to switch between cleaning modes. The AX912, while offering more advanced features, may require a bit more effort to maneuver due to its slightly heavier design. Both vacuums offer the convenience of a lift-away canister, making them suitable for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas.

Maintenance and Longevity

Both the Shark AX912 and NV800 require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes emptying the dust cup, cleaning the filters, and removing any hair or debris from the brush rolls. Replacement filters and parts are readily available for both models. The Shark AX912 and NV800 both come with a 5-7 year limited warranty.

Who Should Buy Shark AX912?

The Shark AX912 is best for:

• Users who prioritize powerful suction and deep cleaning capabilities.
• Those who want advanced features like noise reduction technology.
• Consumers who need effective pet hair removal from carpets and upholstery.
• Individuals who appreciate the convenience of the MultiFLEX wand for cleaning under furniture.

Who Should Buy Shark NV800?

The Shark NV800 is best for:

• Users who prefer a lightweight and easy-to-maneuver vacuum.
• Those who want a versatile cleaner for both hard floors and carpets.
• Consumers who appreciate the added visibility of LED headlights on the nozzle.
• Individuals who want a reliable vacuum at a reasonable price point.

Final Recommendation

The Shark AX912 and NV800 are both capable upright vacuums with unique strengths. The Shark AX912 is the better choice for those who need more powerful suction, advanced features, and quieter operation. However, the Shark NV800 is a compelling option for users who value a lightweight design, ease of use, and versatility for cleaning various surfaces.