Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 Review

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 is a premium upright vacuum cleaner designed to deliver powerful suction and exceptional versatility. Aimed at homeowners seeking a comprehensive cleaning solution, the AX910 boasts Shark’s signature DuoClean technology, a self-cleaning brushroll, and a Lift-Away design for tackling various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. Positioned as a high-end offering in Shark’s extensive vacuum lineup, the AX910 aims to compete with other premium models in terms of performance and features.

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 stands out with its impressive suction power and innovative features. It’s designed to seamlessly transition from carpets to hard floors, capture pet hair effectively, and offer convenient cleaning above the floor with its Lift-Away mode. However, its higher price point and bulky design may not appeal to everyone. Ultimately, the AX910 is a compelling option for those who prioritize performance and versatility in their cleaning appliances.

Key Takeaways

• The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 offers exceptional suction power and cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors, thanks to its DuoClean technology.
• The self-cleaning brushroll effectively prevents hair from wrapping around the brush, minimizing maintenance.
• The Lift-Away design provides versatility for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor areas.
• The HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology make it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
• Despite its strong performance, the AX910 is relatively heavy and bulky compared to some competitors.

Verdict: 8.5/10

Specifications

Price and Availability

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 typically retails for between $300 and $400. It is available at major retailers such as:

• Sharkclean.com
• Amazon
• Best Buy
• Walmart
• Target

Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially during holidays, when the AX910 may be offered at a discounted price. Bundles that include additional accessories are sometimes available.

Design and Build Quality

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 boasts a robust and well-engineered design. The vacuum features a sturdy plastic construction that feels durable and capable of withstanding regular use. Its color scheme, typically a combination of gray and rose gold accents, gives it a premium aesthetic. While the AX910 is undeniably well-built, its weight (16 pounds) can make it somewhat cumbersome to maneuver, especially for extended cleaning sessions.

Compared to previous Shark models, the AX910 incorporates several design improvements. The DuoClean technology, with its combination of a soft brushroll and a bristle brushroll, is a notable advancement. The self-cleaning brushroll, designed to prevent hair wrapping, is another welcome addition. However, the AX910’s bulkiness remains a potential drawback compared to lighter, more agile competitors like the Dyson V11 or Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach. The Lift-Away feature is well-implemented, allowing users to easily convert the upright vacuum into a portable canister for cleaning stairs and upholstery.

Performance and Features

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 excels in cleaning performance, thanks to its powerful suction and innovative features. Its DuoClean technology, which combines a soft brushroll for direct engagement with hard floors and a bristle brushroll for deep cleaning carpets, effectively picks up dirt, debris, and pet hair from various surfaces. The AX910 also features a self-cleaning brushroll, which minimizes hair wrapping and reduces maintenance.

Suction Power

In testing, the AX910 demonstrated impressive suction power on both carpets and hard floors. It effectively removed embedded dirt and debris from carpets in a single pass, and its soft brushroll gently polished hard floors while picking up fine dust and crumbs. Compared to other vacuums in its class, the AX910 consistently delivered superior suction performance.

DuoClean Technology

The DuoClean technology is a standout feature of the AX910. The soft brushroll at the front of the vacuum is particularly effective at capturing large debris and fine dust from hard floors, while the bristle brushroll agitates carpets to loosen embedded dirt and pet hair. This combination ensures thorough cleaning across various floor types.

Self-Cleaning Brushroll

The self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer for pet owners and those with long hair. It effectively prevents hair from wrapping around the brush, which can significantly reduce suction power and require manual cleaning. In our tests, the self-cleaning brushroll worked as advertised, keeping the brushroll free of hair and maintaining consistent cleaning performance.

Lift-Away Mode

The Lift-Away feature allows users to detach the canister from the vacuum head, instantly converting the upright vacuum into a portable canister vacuum. This is particularly useful for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor areas. The Lift-Away mode maintains strong suction power, making it effective for a variety of cleaning tasks.

Battery Life

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 is a corded vacuum, so battery life is not applicable. The 30-foot power cord provides a generous cleaning radius, allowing users to cover large areas without having to switch outlets frequently.

Software and User Experience

As a traditional vacuum cleaner, the Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 does not rely on software or a complex user interface. Its operation is straightforward and intuitive, with simple controls for power, suction adjustment, and brushroll engagement. The dust cup is easy to empty, and the filters are readily accessible for cleaning or replacement.

The AX910’s maneuverability is somewhat limited by its weight and bulkiness. While the swivel steering helps navigate around furniture and obstacles, the vacuum can feel cumbersome to push and pull, especially on thick carpets. The Lift-Away feature improves maneuverability for above-floor cleaning, but the canister itself can still be unwieldy.

Comparison to Competitors

Dyson Ball Animal 2

The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is a formidable competitor to the Shark Apex DuoClean AX910. Both vacuums offer powerful suction and excellent cleaning performance on carpets and hard floors. However, the Dyson Ball Animal 2 is generally lighter and more maneuverable, thanks to its ball-shaped design. The Shark AX910 has the advantage of DuoClean technology and a self-cleaning brushroll, which can be particularly beneficial for pet owners.

Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach

The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach is a more affordable alternative to the Shark Apex DuoClean AX910. While it may not offer the same level of suction power or advanced features as the AX910, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach is a lightweight and versatile option for everyday cleaning. Its swivel steering and retractable cord make it easy to maneuver and store. The Shark AX910 justifies its higher price with superior cleaning performance and advanced features like DuoClean and self-cleaning brushroll.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Powerful suction
• DuoClean technology
• Self-cleaning brushroll
• Lift-Away design
• HEPA filtration

Cons:

• Heavy and bulky
• Relatively expensive
• Canister can be unwieldy in Lift-Away mode

Value for Money

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 represents a solid value for money for users who prioritize performance and features. While it is more expensive than some other upright vacuums, its powerful suction, DuoClean technology, and self-cleaning brushroll justify the higher price tag. The AX910 is particularly well-suited for homes with a mix of carpets and hard floors, as well as for pet owners who struggle with hair wrapping around the brushroll.

However, those on a tighter budget or who prefer a lighter, more maneuverable vacuum may want to consider alternative options. The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach offers decent cleaning performance at a lower price point, while the Dyson Ball Animal 2 provides excellent maneuverability and suction power, albeit at a similar price to the AX910.

Verdict

The Shark Apex DuoClean AX910 is a powerful and versatile upright vacuum cleaner that delivers exceptional cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors. Its DuoClean technology, self-cleaning brushroll, and Lift-Away design make it a compelling option for homeowners seeking a comprehensive cleaning solution. While it is relatively heavy and bulky, the AX910’s superior suction power and innovative features justify its higher price tag.

Score: 8.5/10