The Shark ION Robot 761 is designed as an entry-level robot vacuum focused on providing automated daily cleaning. It offers Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, making it a convenient option for maintaining clean floors. While it effectively handles day-to-day dirt, dust, and pet hair on various surfaces, its basic navigation and limited feature set place it as a more budget-friendly option in a competitive market filled with advanced models.
This robot vacuum aims to simplify floor cleaning by automating the process. It is equipped with a Tri-Brush System that combines side brushes, channel brushes, and a multi-surface brush roll to tackle debris on hard floors and carpets. However, its random pathing system and challenges with edge cleaning mean it may not be the best choice for those seeking comprehensive cleaning or smart mapping capabilities.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The Shark ION Robot 761 is effective at picking up dirt, dust, and pet hair on various floor types.
- It offers Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice control compatibility for ease of use.
- Its basic navigation system and lack of smart mapping may result in less efficient cleaning.
- Edge cleaning performance is a noted weakness due to its brush design and limited padding.
- The long-lasting battery provides ample runtime for cleaning most areas in a single session.
Verdict: 6.8/10 – A reliable robot vacuum for basic, everyday cleaning, but lacks advanced features found in higher-end models.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | RV761 |
| Battery Life | Up to 3 hours in Eco mode, up to 2 hours in Max mode |
| Dustbin Capacity | Unspecified, but considered small |
| Dimensions | Varies slightly depending on source, approximately 12.6″ diameter, 2.6″ height |
| Weight | 5.5 lbs |
| Navigation | Smart Sensor Navigation (Random Pathing) |
| Cleaning System | Tri-Brush System (Side Brushes, Channel Brushes, Multi-Surface Brushroll) |
| App Compatibility | SharkClean app |
| Voice Control | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Edge Cleaning | Dual side brushes |
| Filter Type | Standard Filter (replacement required) |
| Included Accessories | Charging dock, Bot Boundary strips, filter, side brushes |
Price and Availability
The Shark ION Robot 761 is available from various retailers, including:
- Online Retailers: Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy
- Grocery Stores: Fred Meyer, Harris Teeter, King Soopers, Foods Co., Mariano’s, Gerbes Super Markets
- Other Retailers: Xtra-vision, Back Market
Pricing varies depending on the retailer and condition:
- New: Prices range from $175 to $299 when sold new.
- Renewed: Approximately $88.95 on Amazon.
- Deals and discounts may be available, such as discounted prices at Fred Meyer and Mariano’s.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark ION Robot 761 features a fairly standard circular design common among robot vacuums. It is primarily constructed of plastic, which contributes to its light weight of 5.5 pounds, making it easy to carry. Its low profile, approximately 2.6 inches in height, allows it to navigate under furniture such as beds and sofas, reaching areas that traditional vacuums might miss.
The build quality is decent for its price point, although it doesn’t match the premium feel of higher-end models. The physical boundary strips included are a practical addition, allowing users to restrict the robot’s access to specific areas without needing virtual barriers. However, some customers have noted that the bumper can be temperamental.
Compared to previous models and competitors:
- The ION 700 series is slightly smaller than the 800 series, enhancing its ability to fit into tight spaces.
- Compared to the iRobot Roomba j7, the Shark ION Robot RV700 series feels less robust.
Performance and Features
Cleaning Performance
The Shark ION Robot 761 uses a Tri-Brush System, combining side brushes, channel brushes, and a multi-surface brush roll, to effectively handle debris on various surfaces. It performs well on bare floors, clearing small and bulky debris. However, its performance on low-pile carpets is less impressive, particularly with fine debris and pet hair.
In tests, the RV761 picked up debris away from edges effectively but struggled with edge cleaning due to limited padding and a less optimized side brush design. The robot utilizes random pathing, which, while providing good coverage in both empty and cluttered environments, is not as efficient as systematic navigation.
Navigation and Obstacle Avoidance
The Shark ION Robot 761 uses Smart Sensor Navigation, relying on proximity sensors to avoid obstacles. While it can sense ledges and stairs to prevent falls and maneuvers around furniture, its random pathing system can be inefficient. Unlike more advanced models with mapping capabilities, it does not create a map of the home, leading to unsystematic cleaning patterns.
The robot has some difficulty maneuvering over obstructions like electrical cords and may get stuck on rugs or power cables. Customer feedback indicates that removing obstacles is essential for optimal performance.
Pet Hair Cleaning
The Shark ION Robot 761’s pet hair cleaning performance is mixed. While it can pick up shorter pet hair, longer hair tends to get tangled in the brush roll, brush guard, and wheels instead of being suctioned into the dustbin. This requires regular manual cleaning of the brush roll and other components.
App and Voice Control
The Shark ION Robot 761 connects to Wi-Fi and can be controlled via the SharkClean app. The app allows users to start and stop cleaning, schedule cleaning sessions, and monitor the robot’s activity. It is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control for basic commands.
Customer experiences with the app’s functionality vary. Some users find it easy to use and helpful, while others consider it useless or report connectivity issues. The robot can be difficult to connect to Wi-Fi, even when placed near the router.
Battery Life
The Shark ION Robot RV700 Series offers impressive battery performance. In Max mode, it provides up to two hours of runtime, while Eco mode extends the runtime to approximately three hours. This is generally sufficient to clean most areas in a single session. The battery life is a significant advantage, particularly for larger homes.
Software and User Experience
The SharkClean app allows users to control the robot, schedule cleanings, and monitor its status. However, user reviews on the app experience are mixed. Some users find the app intuitive and useful for daily tasks, while others report connectivity issues and a lack of advanced features. The app’s basic functionality is adequate for simple scheduling and control, but it lacks the sophisticated mapping and customization options found in higher-end robot vacuums.
Comparison to Competitors
- iRobot Roomba j7/j7+: The Roomba j7 offers advanced mapping, better maneuverability, and the ability to set up virtual boundary lines. The j7+ includes a self-emptying base, reducing maintenance. However, the Roomba j7 is significantly more expensive than the Shark ION Robot 761.
- Shark IQ Robot RV1001AE: The Shark IQ Robot offers a self-empty base option, which reduces the frequency of manual dustbin emptying. It also features row-by-row cleaning for more systematic coverage.
- Roomba 980: The Roomba 980 has more advanced features and better navigation but comes at a higher price point
The Shark ION Robot 761 excels in affordability and ease of use, making it suitable for those new to robot vacuums or seeking a budget-friendly option. However, it falls behind in advanced features and navigation capabilities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Good for bare floors
- Long battery life
- App and voice control
Cons:
- Poor edge cleaning
- Inefficient navigation (random pathing)
- Small dustbin
- Mediocre performance on carpets
- Tends to get stuck on obstacles
Value for Money
The Shark ION Robot 761 offers good value for money for those seeking an entry-level robot vacuum for basic cleaning tasks. Its affordability and ease of use make it an attractive option for first-time buyers or those on a budget. However, its limited features and navigation capabilities may not satisfy users seeking more comprehensive or intelligent cleaning.
Who should buy this product:
- Individuals or families looking for an affordable robot vacuum for daily upkeep on bare floors.
- Those who primarily need a robot vacuum for light cleaning and are not concerned with advanced features.
- Users who have smaller homes or apartments with minimal obstacles.
Who should look elsewhere:
- Those seeking advanced navigation features such as smart mapping, virtual boundaries, and targeted room cleaning.
- Pet owners dealing with significant amounts of pet hair, as the robot struggles with hair management.
- Users with larger homes or multiple floor types requiring more efficient and thorough cleaning.
Verdict
The Shark ION Robot 761 is a decent entry-level robot vacuum that provides automated cleaning at an affordable price. While it performs well on bare floors and offers convenient app and voice control, its basic navigation, poor edge cleaning, and small dustbin limit its overall effectiveness. It is a suitable choice for those seeking a simple and budget-friendly robot vacuum for light cleaning tasks, but users with more demanding needs should consider higher-end models with advanced features and better performance.
Final Score: 6.8/10
