For homeowners seeking powerful and versatile cleaning solutions, Shark vacuums have become a popular choice. Two models that often find themselves on potential buyers’ lists are the Shark AZ1000W APEX DuoClean and the Shark UV700 DuoClean Lift-Away. Both offer unique features and technologies designed to tackle various cleaning challenges. The AZ1000W, part of the APEX series, aims for a premium cleaning experience with advanced features like Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll and Powered Lift-Away. On the other hand, the UV700 is a more budget-friendly option that still incorporates Shark’s signature DuoClean technology and Lift-Away functionality.
Choosing between these two models depends on individual needs and priorities. Are you battling persistent pet hair and need a self-cleaning brushroll? Or are you looking for a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum for quick cleanups? This comparison delves into the specifics of each model, exploring their features, performance, and value proposition to help you determine which Shark vacuum is the right fit for your home. We’ll dissect their design, performance on different floor types, special features, and overall user experience to provide a comprehensive overview.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of the Shark AZ1000W APEX DuoClean
- Short Review of the Shark UV700 DuoClean Lift-Away
- 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 AZ1000W?
- Who Should Buy the Shark UV700?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- Shark AZ1000W: Best for homes with significant pet hair, those needing powerful deep cleaning, and users who value advanced features like the Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll and noise reduction technology.
- Shark UV700: Best for budget-conscious buyers, those needing a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum for everyday cleaning, and users who appreciate the DuoClean technology and Lift-Away functionality in a more compact package.
Short Review of the Shark AZ1000W APEX DuoClean
The Shark AZ1000W APEX DuoClean upright vacuum is designed to provide a comprehensive cleaning experience, equipped with features to handle various messes and floor types. Its standout feature is the DuoClean technology, which combines a bristle brushroll and a soft roller to capture large particles, pull in piles, and directly engage hard floors. The Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll actively removes hair wrap, reducing the need for manual cleaning. Additionally, the Powered Lift-Away feature allows users to detach the canister for extended reach under furniture and in above-floor areas.
This model also includes advanced anti-allergen complete seal technology with a HEPA filter, trapping dust and allergens inside the vacuum. The AZ1000W is designed for powerful suction and includes noise reduction technology for quieter operation. The LED lights on the handle and floor nozzle enhance visibility in dark spaces, ensuring no debris is missed. The AZ1000W aims to deliver a deep and thorough clean, making it suitable for households with pets and allergy sufferers.
Short Review of the Shark UV700 DuoClean Lift-Away
The Shark UV700 DuoClean Lift-Away upright vacuum is engineered for versatility and ease of use, offering effective cleaning performance across different surfaces. It features DuoClean technology, utilizing a dual-brushroll system to deep-clean carpets and directly engage hard floors. The Lift-Away functionality allows the canister to detach, making it easier to clean under furniture, on upholstery, and above-floor areas. The UV700 also incorporates a self-cleaning brushroll designed to minimize hair wrap, making it suitable for pet owners.
Equipped with anti-allergen complete seal technology and a HEPA filter, the UV700 traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum, promoting cleaner air. Its advanced swivel steering enhances maneuverability, allowing users to navigate tight spaces and corners with ease. The UV700 is designed to be lightweight and easy to handle, making it a practical choice for everyday cleaning tasks. The inclusion of LED headlights further improves visibility, ensuring thorough cleaning in dimly lit areas.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Self-Cleaning Brushroll: AZ1000W features Zero-M technology for nonstop hair removal, while UV700 has a standard self-cleaning brushroll.
- Weight: UV700 is lighter and easier to maneuver compared to the heavier AZ1000W.
- Noise Reduction: AZ1000W incorporates noise reduction technology, making it quieter during operation.
- Attachments: AZ1000W may include a more comprehensive set of attachments compared to UV700.
- Price: UV700 is generally more budget-friendly than the AZ1000W.
- Suction Power: AZ1000W generally boasts more powerful suction capabilities.
- ** maneuverability:** AZ1000W has active glide technology.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark AZ1000W APEX DuoClean | Shark UV700 DuoClean Lift-Away |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | DuoClean, Zero-M, Powered Lift-Away | DuoClean, Lift-Away, Self-Cleaning Brushroll |
| Filtration | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal |
| Brushroll | Self-Cleaning Brushroll (Zero-M) | Self-Cleaning Brushroll |
| Weight | ~16 lbs | ~13.3 lbs |
| Cord Length | 30 ft | 30 ft |
| Dust Cup Capacity | Larger | Smaller |
| LED Lights | Yes, on handle and floor nozzle | Yes, on floor nozzle |
| Noise Reduction | Yes | No |
| Attachments | Multiple, varies by model | Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, (sometimes Pet Power Brush) |
| Dimensions | Varies | 47.2″ H x 12.2″ W |
| Cleaning Path Width | Varies | 11 inches |
| Model Numbers Supported | AZ1000, AZ1002, AZ1003, AZ1000W, AZ1002BRN… | UV700, (possibly UV700 Renewed) |
Price Comparison
- Shark AZ1000W: Typically found in the higher price range for upright vacuums, reflecting its advanced features like Zero-M technology, noise reduction, and powerful suction.
- Shark UV700: Generally positioned as a more budget-friendly option, offering DuoClean technology and Lift-Away functionality at a lower price point.
Value Proposition: The AZ1000W offers a higher cost-to-feature ratio, providing advanced features and superior cleaning performance for those willing to invest more. The UV700 provides a balanced value for users seeking essential features and reliable performance without the premium price tag.
Design and Build Quality
- Shark AZ1000W: Designed with a robust build quality, the AZ1000W often incorporates premium materials and enhanced durability. Its design includes LED lights on both the handle and floor nozzle for improved visibility. Some customers find it heavy, which can affect maneuverability.
- Shark UV700: The UV700 is designed to be lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for quick and convenient cleaning. While still durable, its build quality may not be as robust as the AZ1000W. Customer reviews suggest that some find the build quality less impressive.
Performance Face-Off
Cleaning on Hard Floors
- AZ1000W: The DuoClean technology excels on hard floors, grabbing fine dust and large debris effectively. The soft roller ensures a polished look without scratching the surface.
- UV700: The DuoClean system also performs well on hard floors, providing good suction and effective cleaning. However, it may not have the same level of fine dust removal as the AZ1000W.
Cleaning on Carpets
- AZ1000W: With its powerful suction and DuoClean technology, the AZ1000W deep cleans carpets, removing embedded dirt and pet hair. The adjustable settings allow for optimized performance on different carpet types.
- UV700: The UV700 delivers solid performance on carpets, effectively removing surface dirt and debris. It may struggle with deeply embedded dirt in high-pile carpets compared to the AZ1000W.
Pet Hair Removal
- AZ1000W: The Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll is a significant advantage for pet owners, preventing hair wrap and maintaining consistent cleaning performance.
- UV700: The self-cleaning brushroll helps minimize hair wrap, but may require occasional manual cleaning, especially with long pet hair.
Edge Cleaning
- Both models perform adequately in edge cleaning, utilizing their brush designs to reach along walls and baseboards. The AZ1000W’s stronger suction may provide a slight edge in this area.
Special Features Comparison
- Shark AZ1000W:
- Zero-M Technology: Actively removes hair wrap from the brushroll, reducing maintenance.
- Powered Lift-Away: Detach the canister to extend the reach under furniture and in above-floor areas.
- Noise Reduction Technology: Operates more quietly than standard vacuums.
- Active-Glide Technology: Provides smooth maneuverability on hard floors and carpets.
- Shark UV700:
- Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture and above-floor areas.
- DuoClean Technology: Dual brushroll system for effective cleaning on carpets and hard floors.
- Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Engineered for more pet hair pickup with less hair wrap (vs. Shark bristle nozzles).
Usability and User Experience
- Shark AZ1000W: The AZ1000W is easy to use with intuitive controls and versatile cleaning modes. However, its weight can make it less maneuverable for some users.
- Shark UV700: The UV700 is designed for ease of use, with a lightweight design and swivel steering for enhanced maneuverability. It is suitable for both novice and experienced users.
Maintenance and Longevity
- Shark AZ1000W: Requires regular maintenance, including emptying the dust cup, cleaning filters, and checking for blockages. The Zero-M technology reduces brushroll cleaning.
- Shark UV700: Similar maintenance requirements, including emptying the dust cup and cleaning filters. The self-cleaning brushroll minimizes hair wrap, but occasional cleaning may still be needed.
Who Should Buy the Shark AZ1000W?
- Pet Owners: The Zero-M technology is a major benefit for homes with pets, reducing the need to clean the brushroll manually.
- Allergy Sufferers: The HEPA filtration and complete seal technology trap dust and allergens, improving air quality.
- Those Needing Powerful Deep Cleaning: The strong suction and DuoClean technology provide thorough cleaning on all floor types.
- Users Who Value Quiet Operation: The noise reduction technology makes vacuuming less disruptive.
Who Should Buy the Shark UV700?
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Offers essential features and reliable performance at a lower price point.
- Those Needing a Lightweight Vacuum: Easy to maneuver and carry, making it suitable for quick cleanups and multi-story homes.
- Users with Mixed Flooring Types: The DuoClean technology provides effective cleaning on both hard floors and carpets.
- Those Who Appreciate Lift-Away Functionality: The detachable pod allows for convenient cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
Final Recommendation
The Shark AZ1000W APEX DuoClean is the superior choice for those who need advanced features, powerful suction, and effective pet hair removal. Its Zero-M technology, noise reduction, and robust build quality make it a worthwhile investment for demanding cleaning needs.
The Shark UV700 DuoClean Lift-Away is an excellent option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize a lightweight, maneuverable vacuum with reliable performance. Its DuoClean technology and Lift-Away functionality provide versatile cleaning capabilities for everyday use.
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