The Shark APEX DuoClean series represents Shark’s “most advanced upright vacuums,” aiming to provide powerful cleaning performance and versatility. The AX951 and AX952 models are both full-sized, bagless upright vacuums packed with features like DuoClean Technology, Powered Lift-Away, and HEPA filtration. These vacuums target homeowners with a mix of carpets and hard floors, those with pets, and individuals concerned about allergens. Choosing between the AX951 and AX952 can be tricky, as the core functionality is nearly identical.
Both the AX951 and AX952 offer excellent cleaning capabilities and similar features. The decision hinges on which included accessories best suit your specific cleaning needs. Are you looking for an under-appliance wand or an on-board motorized pet tool? This comparison dives deep into the nuances of these two models to help you make an informed decision and select the Shark APEX DuoClean vacuum that’s right for you.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark APEX DuoClean AX951
- Short Review of Shark APEX DuoClean AX952
- Key Differences at a Glance
- Specifications Comparison
- Price Comparison
- Design and Build Quality
- Performance Face-Off
- Special Features Comparison
- Usability and User Experience
- Maintenance and Longevity
- Who Should Buy the Shark AX951?
- Who Should Buy the Shark AX952?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- Choose the Shark AX951 if: You need to clean under appliances frequently and want the MultiFLEX under-appliance wand.
- Choose the Shark AX952 if: You have pets and want the convenience of an on-board motorized pet tool for quick upholstery and stair cleaning.
Short Review of Shark APEX DuoClean AX951
The Shark APEX DuoClean AX951 is a versatile, bagless upright vacuum designed for whole-home cleaning. Its DuoClean technology, featuring a bristle brush and a soft roller, excels on both carpets and hard floors. The Powered Lift-Away function allows you to detach the canister for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas. Equipped with HEPA filtration and a complete seal, the AX951 traps allergens, making it suitable for allergy sufferers.
The AX951 includes a range of attachments such as an anti-allergen dust brush, a pet multi-tool, a duster crevice tool, a MultiFLEX under-appliance wand, and an accessory bag. The MultiFLEX wand is particularly useful for cleaning under refrigerators, stoves, and other low-clearance furniture. Its noise reduction technology and active glide technology provides reduced noise and smooth maneuverability.
Short Review of Shark APEX DuoClean AX952
The Shark APEX DuoClean AX952 is a powerful, bagless upright vacuum that shares many features with the AX951, including DuoClean technology and Powered Lift-Away. It is also equipped with HEPA filtration and a complete seal system to trap allergens and pollutants. Like the AX951, the AX952 offers excellent performance on both carpets and hard floors.
The key difference lies in the included attachments. The AX952 comes with an on-board deep cleaning motorized pet tool, an anti-allergen dust brush, a pet multi-tool, a duster crevice tool, and an accessory bag. The on-board motorized pet tool is ideal for removing pet hair and dander from upholstery, stairs, and other surfaces. Additionally, the AX952 incorporates noise reduction technology to minimize disruption during cleaning.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Attachment: The AX951 includes a MultiFLEX under-appliance wand, while the AX952 features an on-board motorized pet tool.
- Pet Cleaning: The AX952 is better suited for homes with pets due to its motorized pet tool that conveniently stores on the vacuum.
- Under-Appliance Cleaning: The AX951 excels at cleaning under appliances and furniture with its MultiFLEX wand.
- Accessory Storage: The AX952 has on-board storage for the motorized pet tool, while the AX951 does not have on-board storage for the under-appliance wand.
- Target User: The AX951 is geared towards users who need to clean under appliances regularly, while the AX952 is geared towards pet owners who want a convenient pet hair cleaning solution.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark AX951 | Shark AX952 |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | DuoClean, Powered Lift-Away | DuoClean, Powered Lift-Away |
| Filtration | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 1.5 quarts | 1.5 quarts |
| Weight | ~16 lbs | ~16 lbs |
| Cord Length | 30 feet | 30 feet |
| Attachments | Anti-Allergen Dust Brush, Pet Multi-Tool, Duster Crevice, MultiFLEX Under-Appliance Wand, Accessory Bag | On-Board Deep Cleaning Motorized Pet Tool, Anti-Allergen Dust Brush, Pet Multi-Tool, Duster Crevice, Accessory Bag |
| Noise Reduction Technology | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 7-Year Limited | 7-Year Limited |
Price Comparison
The Shark AX951 and AX952 are typically priced similarly, often within the same price bracket. Pricing fluctuates based on retailer and promotions. While both models offer excellent cleaning performance, the better value depends on your specific needs. If you require the under-appliance wand, the AX951 provides better value. If you need the motorized pet tool, the AX952 is the better choice. Checking for current deals and promotions will help determine the most cost-effective option at the time of purchase.
Design and Build Quality
Both the AX951 and AX952 share the same overall design and build quality. They are constructed from durable plastic materials and feature a sturdy upright design. The vacuums have a sage green color scheme. The Powered Lift-Away function is well-engineered, allowing for easy detachment and reattachment of the canister.
Some users find the vacuums a bit heavy, which can make them less maneuverable for some. The build quality is generally praised, with many owners reporting long-lasting performance. The key design difference lies in the attachment configuration: the AX952 has an on-board storage clip for the motorized pet tool, enhancing its convenience for pet owners.
Performance Face-Off
Both the Shark AX951 and AX952 boast impressive cleaning performance, thanks to their DuoClean technology and powerful suction.
Carpet Cleaning
Both vacuums excel at deep cleaning carpets, effectively removing dirt, debris, and pet hair. The bristle brush roll agitates carpet fibers, while the strong suction lifts embedded particles.
Hard Floor Cleaning
The soft roller brush of the DuoClean system gently cleans hard floors without scattering debris. Both models effectively pick up large and small particles, leaving floors clean and polished.
Edge Cleaning
Both models provide decent edge cleaning, although some users may find it necessary to use the crevice tool for optimal results in tight corners.
Pet Hair Removal
Both vacuums are effective at removing pet hair from various surfaces. The AX952’s motorized pet tool offers an advantage for cleaning upholstery and stairs, while the AX951 relies on the pet multi-tool attachment.
Special Features Comparison
- DuoClean Technology: Both models feature this technology, which uses a bristle brush and a soft roller to clean both carpets and hard floors effectively.
- Powered Lift-Away: Both models have the powered lift-away feature.
- HEPA Filtration: Both models come with HEPA filters.
- MultiFLEX Under-Appliance Wand (AX951): This allows for cleaning under appliances.
- On-Board Motorized Pet Tool (AX952): Conveniently stored on the vacuum for quick access.
Usability and User Experience
Both the AX951 and AX952 are designed for ease of use. The controls are intuitive, and the Powered Lift-Away function is simple to operate. The swivel steering enhances maneuverability, although the weight of the vacuums can be a factor for some users. The AX952 might be slightly more user-friendly for pet owners due to the on-board storage of the motorized pet tool.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both models require similar maintenance. The dust cup is easy to empty, and the filters are washable. Regularly cleaning the brush rolls is essential to maintain optimal performance. The 7-year limited warranty provides peace of mind regarding potential defects. The life span of both vacuums will depend on usage and maintenance, but many users report several years of reliable performance.
Who Should Buy the Shark AX951?
The Shark AX951 is the ideal choice for:
- Homeowners who frequently need to clean under appliances and low-clearance furniture.
- Users who appreciate the flexibility of the MultiFLEX under-appliance wand.
- Individuals who prioritize versatile cleaning tools for various surfaces.
Who Should Buy the Shark AX952?
The Shark AX952 is the ideal choice for:
- Pet owners who need to remove pet hair from upholstery, stairs, and other surfaces.
- Users who value the convenience of an on-board motorized pet tool.
- Individuals who want a powerful vacuum cleaner for pet hair removal and general cleaning.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark AX951 and AX952 are excellent upright vacuums that offer exceptional cleaning performance and versatility. The best choice depends on your specific cleaning needs and priorities.
If you frequently need to clean under appliances and value the MultiFLEX under-appliance wand, the Shark AX951 is the better option.
If you have pets and want a convenient solution for removing pet hair from upholstery and stairs, the Shark AX952 is the superior choice due to its on-board motorized pet tool.
