Shark NV801 vs AX910: Cleaning Battle

The Shark NV801 and AX910 are both upright vacuum cleaners from Shark’s DuoClean Powered Lift-Away series, designed to provide versatile cleaning for both carpets and hard floors. These models appeal to homeowners seeking a powerful and adaptable vacuum that can easily transition from upright mode for large areas to a portable mode for stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces. Both vacuums incorporate Shark’s signature features, but cater to slightly different needs and preferences based on their design and feature set.

Choosing between the Shark NV801 and AX910 can be a tough decision, as both offer excellent cleaning performance and innovative features. The NV801 is known for its maneuverability and powerful suction, making it a great option for homes with a mix of carpets and hard floors. The AX910 steps it up with enhanced features like a wider cleaning path and potentially a larger dustbin, making it suitable for larger homes or those who prefer less frequent emptying. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific cleaning needs, home size, and preferred features.

Quick Verdict

• For overall value and maneuverability: The Shark NV801 is a strong contender, especially for smaller homes or those who prioritize ease of use and storage.
• For larger homes and fewer interruptions: The Shark AX910 might be a better choice due to its wider cleaning path and potentially larger dustbin.

Short Review of Shark NV801

The Shark NV801, also known as the Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Speed, is a versatile upright vacuum cleaner designed for effective cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. Its key feature is the DuoClean technology, which uses two brushrolls working in tandem to pick up fine dust and larger debris. The Powered Lift-Away design allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning, making it easy to tackle stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces.

The NV801 is praised for its powerful suction, maneuverability, and user-friendly operation. It includes features like LED headlights to illuminate dark areas and adjustable suction settings to prevent rugs from being pulled up. While some users find the dust canister a bit small, its ease of emptying and reattachment is a definite plus. Overall, the Shark NV801 is a reliable and efficient vacuum cleaner suitable for homes with various flooring types and cleaning needs.

Short Review of Shark AX910

The Shark AX910, part of the Shark Apex DuoClean Powered Lift-Away series, is an enhanced upright vacuum cleaner designed for thorough and convenient cleaning. It features DuoClean technology with two brushrolls for effective debris and dust pickup on all floor types. The Powered Lift-Away function allows the canister to detach, making it easier to clean stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach areas.

The AX910 stands out with a wider cleaning head, which covers more ground in less time, making it suitable for larger homes. It often includes features like Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum. While it may be slightly heavier than some models, the swivel steering and powered lift-away mode enhance its maneuverability and ease of use. The Shark AX910 is a robust and feature-rich vacuum cleaner ideal for users who need powerful suction, versatile cleaning options, and advanced allergen protection.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Cleaning Path Width: The AX910 typically has a wider cleaning path, allowing you to cover more surface area in less time.
• Dustbin Capacity: The AX910 may offer a larger dustbin, reducing the frequency of emptying.
• Weight: The AX910 is generally heavier than the NV801, which could affect maneuverability for some users.
• Special Features: The AX910 may include additional features like Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology for enhanced allergen protection.
• Price: The AX910 is typically priced higher than the NV801, reflecting its additional features and enhanced capabilities.
• Brushroll Technology: The AX910 may include Anti-Hair Wrap technology, preventing hair from getting tangled in the brushroll.

Specifications Comparison

Price Comparison

The Shark NV801 typically retails for around $250-$350, while the Shark AX910 generally costs between $350-$450. The AX910 commands a higher price due to its enhanced features such as a wider cleaning path, potentially larger dustbin, and advanced allergen protection.

• Value Proposition (NV801): Offers excellent cleaning performance and versatility at a more affordable price point. It’s a great choice for budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on features.
• Value Proposition (AX910): Justifies its higher price with additional features that enhance cleaning efficiency and convenience, particularly for larger homes or those with allergy concerns.

Design and Build Quality

• NV801: Features a lightweight design with easy-to-use controls. The build quality is sturdy, though predominantly plastic. The Lift-Away feature is well-integrated, allowing for easy conversion to portable mode.
• AX910: Has a more robust construction with a wider cleaning head. The design includes advanced features like Anti-Allergen Complete Seal. While slightly heavier, the swivel steering and powered lift-away mode enhance maneuverability.

Performance Face-Off

Carpet Cleaning

• NV801: Excels at lifting embedded dirt and debris from carpets, thanks to its DuoClean technology and powerful suction. Adjustable suction settings prevent damage to delicate rugs.
• AX910: Offers similar or slightly improved carpet cleaning performance due to its wider cleaning path and enhanced suction capabilities. The Anti-Hair Wrap technology can also prevent the brushroll from getting tangled with hair.

Hard Floor Cleaning

• NV801: The DuoClean technology effectively captures fine dust and larger particles from hard floors without scattering. The soft brushroll gently polishes floors, leaving them clean and scratch-free.
• AX910: Performs equally well on hard floors, with the wider cleaning path allowing for faster cleaning. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal ensures that dust and allergens are trapped, preventing them from being released back into the air.

Pet Hair Removal

• NV801: Capable of handling pet hair, though the included pet tool may not be as effective as motorized versions. Regular maintenance is required to remove tangled hair from the brushroll.
• AX910: Often includes a more powerful pet power brush designed to efficiently remove pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces. The Anti-Hair Wrap technology further reduces the hassle of removing tangled hair.

Edge Cleaning

• NV801: The narrow cleaner head allows for decent edge cleaning, but may require some maneuvering to reach tight corners.
• AX910: May offer slightly better edge cleaning due to its wider cleaning head and enhanced suction, but performance is generally comparable to the NV801.

Special Features Comparison

• NV801:
  • DuoClean Technology: Two brushrolls work together to clean carpets and hard floors effectively.
  • Powered Lift-Away: Detach the canister for portable cleaning of stairs and upholstery.
  • LED Headlights: Illuminate dark areas for better visibility.
• AX910:
  • DuoClean Technology: Similar to NV801, but may be enhanced for even better performance.
  • Powered Lift-Away: Similar to NV801, providing versatile cleaning options.
  • Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
  • Anti-Hair Wrap Technology: Prevents hair from getting tangled in the brushroll.
  • Wider Cleaning Path: Covers more surface area in less time.

Usability and User Experience

• NV801: Easy to assemble and operate, with intuitive controls and a lightweight design. The Lift-Away feature is simple to use, and the vacuum is easy to maneuver around furniture.
• AX910: Offers a similar user experience, with the added benefit of a wider cleaning path for faster cleaning. While slightly heavier, the swivel steering and powered lift-away mode enhance maneuverability.

Maintenance and Longevity

• NV801: Requires regular cleaning of the brushrolls and filters. The dust canister needs to be emptied frequently. The machine is durable, but the plastic components may be susceptible to wear and tear over time. Filters should be cleaned every 3 months and the HEPA filter should be cleaned about once per year.
• AX910: Similar maintenance requirements, with the added benefit of Anti-Hair Wrap technology to reduce the need for brushroll cleaning. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal helps to keep the filters clean, extending their lifespan. Filters for both models are readily available.

Who Should Buy the Shark NV801?

The Shark NV801 is an excellent choice for:

• Budget-conscious consumers: Offers great value for its price.
• Apartment dwellers or small home owners: Compact and easy to store.
• Users who prioritize maneuverability: Lightweight and easy to maneuver around furniture.
• Those who need versatile cleaning: Effective on both carpets and hard floors.

Who Should Buy the Shark AX910?

The Shark AX910 is ideal for:

• Homeowners with larger homes: Wider cleaning path covers more area in less time.
• Allergy sufferers: Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology traps dust and allergens.
• Pet owners: Powerful pet power brush efficiently removes pet hair.
• Those who want advanced features: Anti-Hair Wrap technology and enhanced cleaning capabilities.

Final Recommendation

Both the Shark NV801 and AX910 are excellent upright vacuums that offer versatile cleaning performance. The Shark NV801 stands out as a great value option, offering powerful suction, DuoClean technology, and a lightweight design at a more affordable price point. It’s perfect for smaller homes and users who prioritize maneuverability.

The Shark AX910, on the other hand, justifies its higher price with enhanced features like a wider cleaning path, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, and potentially a larger dustbin. It’s an ideal choice for larger homes, allergy sufferers, and pet owners who need advanced cleaning capabilities.

In summary, if budget and maneuverability are your primary concerns, the Shark NV801 is a solid choice. If you’re willing to invest more for enhanced features and greater cleaning efficiency, the Shark AX910 is the better option.