The Shark ZU785 and AZ1002 are both upright vacuums designed for whole-home cleaning, targeting consumers who want powerful suction, versatile cleaning modes, and advanced filtration. Both models feature Shark’s signature DuoClean technology, promising effective cleaning on both hard floors and carpets. However, they cater to slightly different needs and preferences. The ZU785, part of the Rotator series, emphasizes maneuverability and ease of use with its Lift-Away design and swivel steering, while the AZ1002, from the Apex series, focuses on delivering Shark’s most powerful suction and innovative features for a comprehensive cleaning experience.
Choosing between the Shark ZU785 and AZ1002 depends on your specific cleaning priorities. If you value lightweight maneuverability and ease of use for quick cleanups, the ZU785 might be a better fit. On the other hand, if you need maximum suction power and are willing to handle a slightly heavier machine for deep cleaning and advanced features like the self-cleaning brushroll, the AZ1002 could be the better choice. Both vacuums offer excellent filtration and versatile cleaning modes, making them suitable for households with pets and allergy sufferers.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Shark ZU785 Short Review
- Shark AZ1002 Short Review
- 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 ZU785?
- Who Should Buy Shark AZ1002?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For Overall Value: The Shark ZU785 offers a balance of features and performance at a potentially lower price point, making it a good value for budget-conscious buyers.
- For Power and Advanced Features: The Shark AZ1002 provides superior suction and innovative features like the self-cleaning brushroll, making it ideal for those with demanding cleaning needs.
- For Maneuverability: The Shark ZU785 is lighter and has better swivel steering, making it easier to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces.
- For Pet Owners: Both are good, but the Shark AZ1002 comes with motorized pet brush, offers powerful pet hair pickup with no hair wrap.
The Shark ZU785 Rotator Lift-Away DuoClean Pro is an upright vacuum designed for versatile cleaning throughout your home. It features Shark’s DuoClean technology, which uses a bristle brush and a soft roller to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors. The Lift-Away design allows you to detach the canister for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and above-floor areas. The ZU785 also includes a self-cleaning brushroll to prevent hair wrap, a HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology to trap dust and allergens, and advanced swivel steering for easy maneuverability. This model is a strong contender for those seeking a balance of power, convenience, and features.
The ZU785 is particularly well-suited for homes with a mix of flooring types, as the DuoClean technology seamlessly transitions between carpets and hard floors. Its Lift-Away feature makes it easy to clean hard-to-reach areas, while the self-cleaning brushroll minimizes maintenance. The HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal are beneficial for allergy sufferers and pet owners. Its 30-foot cord offers a wide cleaning path. While not as powerful as some high-end models, the ZU785 offers a compelling combination of features and performance at a mid-range price point.
The Shark AZ1002 APEX DuoClean is an upright vacuum engineered for powerful and comprehensive cleaning. It boasts Shark’s most powerful suction, DuoClean technology for effective multi-surface cleaning, and a self-cleaning brushroll to eliminate hair wrap. The Powered Lift-Away feature allows you to detach the canister for motorized cleaning under furniture or above-floor areas. The AZ1002 also includes a HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology and LED lights on the nozzle and handle for enhanced visibility.
The AZ1002 is ideal for households that demand high suction power and advanced cleaning capabilities. Its DuoClean technology ensures effective cleaning on all floor types, while the self-cleaning brushroll minimizes maintenance and ensures consistent performance. The Powered Lift-Away feature provides added convenience for cleaning stairs and upholstery. The HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal are essential for allergy sufferers and pet owners. While it may be heavier than some other models, the AZ1002’s powerful performance and innovative features make it a top choice for those seeking a premium cleaning experience.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Suction Power: The AZ1002 generally has more powerful suction compared to the ZU785.
- Brushroll Technology: Both have self-cleaning brushrolls, but the AZ1002’s Zero-M technology may offer slightly better hair tangle prevention.
- Weight: The ZU785 is typically lighter and easier to maneuver than the AZ1002.
- Lift-Away Feature: The AZ1002 has a powered lift-away feature, while the ZU785 has a standard lift-away.
- LED Lights: The AZ1002 includes LED lights on both the nozzle and handle. The ZU785 has LED lights on the nozzle.
- Price: The ZU785 is generally more affordable than the AZ1002.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark ZU785 | Shark AZ1002 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | Rotator Lift-Away DuoClean Pro | APEX DuoClean Powered Lift-Away |
| Vacuum Type | Upright | Upright |
| Bagless/Bagged | Bagless | Bagless |
| DuoClean Technology | Yes | Yes |
| Self-Cleaning Brushroll | Yes | Yes |
| Lift-Away | Yes | Yes, Powered Lift-Away |
| Anti-Allergen Seal | Yes | Yes |
| HEPA Filter | Yes | Yes |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Cord Length | 30 feet | 30 feet |
| Weight | Approximately 15.5 lbs | Approximately 16 lbs |
| Attachments | Crevice tool, upholstery tool, pet power brush, under-appliance wand | Crevice tool, upholstery tool, pet power brush |
| LED Lights | Nozzle | Nozzle and Handle |
| Dimensions | 48″ H x 12″ W x 13.2″ L | 46″ H x 12.2″ W x 11.2″ L |
| Voltage | 120V | 120V |
| Special Features | Zero-M Technology, Advanced Swivel Steering | Noise Reduction Technology, Active-Glide Technology |
Price Comparison
The Shark ZU785 typically retails for around $276-$344, while the Shark AZ1002 is often priced higher, ranging from $329 to $575. Keep in mind that pricing can vary depending on the retailer, promotions, and whether the unit is new, used, or refurbished.
Given the price difference, the ZU785 presents a better value proposition for budget-conscious buyers who still want a versatile and feature-rich vacuum. However, the AZ1002 may be worth the extra investment for those who prioritize maximum suction power and advanced features like the self-cleaning brushroll and LED lights, which justifies the cost.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Shark ZU785 and AZ1002 share a similar upright design with a detachable canister for Lift-Away mode. Both models have HEPA filtration and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. The ZU785 distinguishes itself with advanced swivel steering for enhanced maneuverability. Both vacuums feature a bagless design for easy emptying of debris.
The AZ1002 has noise reduction technology and active glide technology. Both vacuums offer a robust build quality, but some users have reported issues with the durability of certain components, such as the brushroll belts. Consider the AZ1002 if you value advanced features and the ZU785 if maneuverability is more important.
Performance Face-Off
Suction Power
The Shark AZ1002 Apex is advertised as the most powerful Shark vacuum made with incredible suction power. Some reviews measure its suction at an astonishing 101 inches of water lift and its airflow at 90 CFM at the hose. While the Shark ZU785 is also effective, the AZ1002 provides more suction power.
Bare Floor Cleaning
The Shark APEX AZ1002 does an outstanding job clearing pet hair and small or bulky debris on bare floors with no significant loss in suction performance. The Shark ZU785 also performs well on bare floors.
Carpet Cleaning
Both the Shark ZU785 and AZ1002 have the DuoClean technology to deep-clean carpets. For thicker carpets, you may need a couple of passes to fully clean up finer debris. The AZ1002 has the extra suction power.
Pet Hair Removal
Both vacuums are decent options for pet owners, they clear pet hair on bare floors and low-pile carpets. The Shark AZ1002 comes with a motorized pet brush and pet multi-tool.
Edge Cleaning
Both vacuums have great edge cleaning capabilities. The design of the vacuum heads allows them to get close to edges and corners, ensuring thorough cleaning along walls and baseboards.
Special Features Comparison
Shark ZU785:
- Zero-M Technology: The self-cleaning brushroll actively removes hair wrap.
- Advanced Swivel Steering: Allows for easy maneuvering around furniture and obstacles.
Shark AZ1002:
- Powered Lift-Away: The canister detaches to extend the reach of the cleaner head.
- Noise Reduction Technology: Reduces noise and softens pitch.
- Active-Glide Technology: Smooth maneuverability on floors and carpets while maintaining powerful suction.
Usability and User Experience
The Shark ZU785 is designed for ease of use, with its lightweight construction and advanced swivel steering making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. The Lift-Away feature allows for quick conversion to a handheld vacuum for cleaning stairs and upholstery.
The Shark AZ1002, while slightly heavier, offers a more powerful cleaning experience with its enhanced suction and self-cleaning brushroll. The Powered Lift-Away feature adds convenience for cleaning under furniture and above-floor areas. However, its weight may make it less ideal for users who prioritize maneuverability.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both the Shark ZU785 and AZ1002 require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes emptying the dust cup after each use, cleaning the filters every few months, and removing any debris or hair from the brushrolls.
Shark vacuums aren’t designed to be maintained or repaired. Certain components, such as the brushroll belts, may need to be replaced over time. The AZ1002 may require more frequent maintenance due to its more powerful suction and complex features.
Who Should Buy Shark ZU785?
Shark ZU785 is better for:
- Individuals who value lightweight maneuverability and ease of use.
- Homes with a mix of hard floors and carpets where easy transition is important.
- Users seeking a balance of features and performance at a more affordable price point.
Who Should Buy Shark AZ1002?
Shark AZ1002 is better for:
- Users who demand maximum suction power for deep cleaning.
- Households with pets and allergy sufferers who need effective filtration and hair removal.
- Individuals who appreciate advanced features and are willing to handle a slightly heavier machine.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark ZU785 and AZ1002 are excellent upright vacuums with unique strengths and weaknesses. The Shark ZU785 is a better choice for those who prioritize maneuverability, ease of use, and value for money. Its lightweight design and advanced swivel steering make it ideal for quick cleanups and homes with multiple levels. The Shark AZ1002 is the superior option for users who need maximum suction power, advanced features, and comprehensive cleaning capabilities. Its powerful suction, self-cleaning brushroll, and Powered Lift-Away feature make it well-suited for homes with pets, allergy sufferers, and those who demand the best possible cleaning performance.
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