The Shark AZ1000W and NV800W are both upright vacuums designed for whole-home cleaning, featuring Shark’s signature “Lift-Away” technology. This allows the canister to detach from the main unit for increased portability, making it easier to clean stairs, furniture, and other hard-to-reach areas. Both models aim to provide powerful suction and versatile cleaning capabilities, but they cater to slightly different needs and budgets. Deciding between these two comes down to understanding their specific strengths and weaknesses.
The Shark AZ1000W, part of the APEX DuoClean series, is positioned as a premium option with advanced features like Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll technology. This is designed to actively remove hair wrap, making it a great choice for pet owners or households with long-haired individuals. On the other hand, the NV800W, from the DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Speed series, offers a more streamlined approach with a focus on powerful suction and ease of use. It’s a solid all-around performer suitable for various floor types. Consumers looking for a balance of performance and convenience often consider these models.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark AZ1000W
- Short Review of Shark NV800W
- 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 Shark AZ1000W?
- Who Should Buy Shark NV800W?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict

- For Pet Owners and Those Tired of Hair Wrap: The Shark AZ1000W is the better choice due to its Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll.
- For Budget-Conscious Shoppers: The Shark NV800W typically comes at a lower price point while still offering good cleaning performance.
- For Homes with Mixed Flooring: Both vacuums excel, but the AZ1000W might have a slight edge with its advanced DuoClean technology.
- For Ease of Use and Maneuverability: The NV800W is lighter, which could be beneficial for some users.
Short Review of Shark AZ1000W

The Shark AZ1000W, part of the APEX DuoClean series, is designed to deliver Shark’s ultimate cleaning experience. It combines DuoClean technology, Powered Lift-Away, and Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll. The DuoClean technology features a dual brushroll system that deep cleans carpets and directly engages floors for a polished look. Its powered lift-away design allows the canister to detach to extend the reach of the cleaner head, including under furniture.
The AZ1000W is equipped with an advanced Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter. This vacuum traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. Its noise reduction technology is expertly tuned to reduce noise and soften pitch. Additionally, the Active-Glide Technology offers smooth maneuverability on hard floors and carpets while maintaining powerful suction. Customers appreciate its ability to switch from floors to carpets with a simple push of a button. The dual rollers are powerful and effective for cleaning under furniture and deep carpets.
Short Review of Shark NV800W
The Shark NV800W DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Speed Upright Vacuum is a versatile cleaning solution designed for various floor types and hard-to-reach areas. It features DuoClean technology, which uses two brushrolls working together to remove large, small, and stuck-on particles from both carpets and hard floors. The Powered Lift-Away design allows the canister to detach for portable cleaning, while still delivering power to the brushroll.
Equipped with Advanced Swivel Steering and LED headlights, the NV800W is easy to maneuver around furniture and navigate dark corners. It also features a completely sealed system with a HEPA filter, capturing 99.9% of dust and allergens. This vacuum includes multiple accessories, such as a motorized floor nozzle, upholstery tool, pet hair power brush, and duster crevice tool. Users praise its ease of use, effective suction, and ability to switch seamlessly between different floor types.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Brushroll Technology: AZ1000W has Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll, while NV800W does not.
- Weight: NV800W is lighter than AZ1000W.
- Power: AZ1000W has a more powerful motor (1350W vs 1150W).
- Noise Reduction: AZ1000W features noise reduction technology.
- Accessories: The specific attachments included may vary between the models.
- Price: NV800W is generally more budget-friendly.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark AZ1000W | Shark NV800W |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | APEX DuoClean with Zero-M | DuoClean Powered Lift-Away Speed |
| Technology | DuoClean, Powered Lift-Away, Zero-M | DuoClean, Powered Lift-Away |
| Wattage | 1350W | 1150W |
| Weight | 11 kg (24.25 lbs) | 4.5 kg (9.9 lbs) (Canister weight) |
| Cord Length | Not Specified | 30 feet |
| Dust Cup Capacity | Not Specified | 0.9 dry quarts |
| Filtration | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Brushroll | Zero-M Self-Cleaning | Standard DuoClean Brushroll |
| Noise Reduction | Yes | No |
| LED Lights | On Nozzle and Handle | On Nozzle |
| Dimensions | Not Specified | Not Specified |
| Special Features | Active-Glide Technology | Fingertip Controls |
| Included Accessories | Varies | Motorized floor nozzle, upholstery tool, pet hair power brush, duster crevice tool |
Price Comparison
The Shark NV800W is generally positioned as the more affordable option. Pricing can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. The Shark AZ1000W, with its advanced features like the Zero-M brushroll and noise reduction, typically commands a higher price. When assessing the value proposition, consider whether the extra features of the AZ1000W justify the additional cost, especially if you have pets or are particularly sensitive to noise.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Shark AZ1000W and NV800W share a similar upright design with the Powered Lift-Away feature. The AZ1000W has noise reduction technology and Active-Glide Technology for smooth maneuverability. The NV800W is equipped with Advanced Swivel Steering and powerful LED headlights. While both vacuums are made primarily of plastic, the AZ1000W might have a slightly more robust feel due to its higher price point and additional features. However, some users have noted that the plastic parts on both models can feel somewhat flimsy. The NV800W has a compact design.
Performance Face-Off
Carpet Cleaning
Both vacuums use DuoClean technology, which combines a bristle brush and a soft roller to effectively clean carpets. The AZ1000W’s Zero-M technology prevents hair from wrapping around the brushroll, maintaining consistent cleaning power. While the NV800W is effective, it may require more frequent brushroll cleaning in homes with pets or long hair.
Hard Floor Cleaning
Both the AZ1000W and NV800W are well-suited for hard floor cleaning due to the soft roller in the DuoClean system. This design allows them to pick up both large debris and fine dust without scattering. The AZ1000W is equipped with Active-Glide Technology for smooth maneuverability. The NV800W uses fingertip controls to easily switch from hard floor to carpet mode.
Pet Hair
The AZ1000W has an edge in pet hair removal due to the Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll. The NV800W comes with a pet power brush and captures up to 99.9% of allergens.
Edge Cleaning
Both vacuums have features that help with edge cleaning, but neither is specifically designed as an edge-cleaning specialist.
Special Features Comparison
- Shark AZ1000W:
- Zero-M Technology: Actively removes hair wrap from the brushroll.
- Noise Reduction Technology: Reduces noise and softens pitch during operation.
- Active-Glide Technology: Smooth maneuverability on hard floors and carpets.
- Shark NV800W:
- Advanced Swivel Steering: Excellent control when moving around obstacles.
- Fingertip Controls: Easily switch from hard floor to carpet mode.
Usability and User Experience
The NV800W has a lighter weight and advanced swivel steering. Both vacuums have LED lights on the nozzle. The AZ1000W has LED lights on the handle and Active-Glide Technology for smooth maneuverability.
Maintenance and Longevity

Both vacuums require regular maintenance, such as emptying the dust cup and cleaning the filters and brushrolls. The AZ1000W’s Zero-M technology reduces the need for manual brushroll cleaning. Some sources indicate that the NV800W comes with a 7-year limited warranty. Both vacuums utilize a HEPA filter that should be replaced periodically.
Who Should Buy Shark AZ1000W?
- Pet Owners: The Zero-M technology is a game-changer for homes with pets.
- Allergy Sufferers: The HEPA filter and complete seal technology trap dust and allergens.
- Those Sensitive to Noise: The noise reduction technology minimizes disturbance.
- Users Wanting Premium Features: The AZ1000W offers the latest innovations from Shark.
Who Should Buy Shark NV800W?
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: The NV800W provides good performance at a lower price point.
- Users Wanting a Lightweight Vacuum: Its lighter weight makes it easier to maneuver and carry.
- Those with Smaller Homes: The NV800W is a compact and versatile option for apartments.
- People Who Want an Easy-to-Use Vacuum: Fingertip controls make it easy to switch between floor types.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark AZ1000W and NV800W are excellent upright vacuums with Lift-Away capabilities. The Shark AZ1000W is the better choice for pet owners and those who prioritize advanced features like the Zero-M brushroll and noise reduction. If you’re on a budget or prefer a lighter machine, the Shark NV800W remains a solid performer that will effectively clean most homes.
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