The Shark AZ910UKT is a corded upright vacuum cleaner designed to deliver powerful suction and versatile cleaning capabilities. Targeting households with pets and those seeking a deep clean on various floor types, this vacuum boasts Shark’s DuoClean technology, Lift-Away functionality, and Anti-Hair Wrap features. Positioned as a premium model within Shark’s upright vacuum lineup, the AZ910UKT aims to compete with other high-end vacuums by offering a blend of performance, convenience, and specialized features.
In a market saturated with vacuum cleaners, the Shark AZ910UKT stands out due to its innovative features. The DuoClean technology allows it to seamlessly transition between hard floors and carpets, while the Lift-Away mode transforms it into a portable vacuum for cleaning stairs and upholstery. The Anti-Hair Wrap technology is particularly appealing to pet owners, promising to minimize hair entanglement in the brush roll. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The Shark AZ910UKT excels in suction power, effectively cleaning both hard floors and carpets, especially with the DuoClean technology.
- The Lift-Away mode provides excellent versatility, allowing for easy cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
- The Anti-Hair Wrap feature significantly reduces hair entanglement in the brush roll, making it ideal for pet owners.
- While it offers great performance, its weight can be a drawback for some users, particularly when using it in upright mode for extended periods.
- The array of included attachments enhances its cleaning capabilities for various surfaces and scenarios.
Verdict: 8.5/10
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AZ910UKT |
| Type | Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner |
| Wattage | 750W |
| Capacity | 1.6 Liters |
| Cord Length | 8 Meters |
| Weight | 6.2 Kg (in upright mode) |
| Dimensions | 26 cm (W) x 30 cm (D) x 118 cm (H) |
| Floor Types | Hardwood, Carpet, Tile |
| Technology | DuoClean, Lift-Away, Anti-Hair Wrap |
| Filtration | HEPA filter, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal |
| Attachments | Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool, Powered Pet Tool |
| Noise Level | ~80 dB |
| Suction Power (Air Watts) | 130 AW |
| Warranty | 5 years (when purchased directly from Shark; may vary by retailer) |
Price and Availability
The Shark AZ910UKT is widely available at major retailers such as Currys PC World, Argos, and directly from the Shark UK website. It’s often featured in discounts and promotions, especially during seasonal sales events like Black Friday and Boxing Day. Look out for bundled deals that may include extra accessories or extended warranties for added value.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark AZ910UKT sports a robust and functional design, typical of Shark’s upright vacuum range. The vacuum is primarily constructed from high-quality plastics, which contribute to its durability while keeping the weight manageable, though at 6.2kg, it’s not the lightest vacuum on the market. The color scheme is a blend of grey and orange, giving it a modern and recognizable Shark aesthetic.
The build quality is generally excellent, with components fitting together precisely and without any noticeable flex or creaking during use. The articulating nozzle is sturdy and allows for smooth maneuverability around furniture and obstacles. The handle is ergonomically designed, providing a comfortable grip for extended cleaning sessions.
Compared to previous Shark models like the NV800UKT, the AZ910UKT feels more refined in its construction, with improved materials and a more streamlined design. However, competitors like the Dyson Ball series boast a more premium feel with their use of higher-end materials and innovative designs.
Performance and Features
The Shark AZ910UKT excels in delivering powerful and efficient cleaning performance. Its standout features include the DuoClean technology, Lift-Away mode, and Anti-Hair Wrap technology.
DuoClean Technology
The DuoClean technology is a game-changer for households with mixed flooring. It features two brush rolls working in tandem – a soft brush roll at the front for direct engagement with hard floors and a bristle brush roll behind it for deep cleaning carpets. This combination allows the vacuum to seamlessly transition between floor types without the need to switch attachments.
In testing, the DuoClean system effectively picked up fine dust and debris from hardwood floors, leaving them spotless. On carpets, it provided deep cleaning, removing embedded dirt and pet hair with ease. This technology sets it apart from many competitors that require manual adjustments or attachment changes for optimal performance on different surfaces.
Lift-Away Mode
The Lift-Away feature transforms the Shark AZ910UKT from an upright vacuum into a portable cleaner. By detaching the canister from the motorized head, you can easily clean stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor surfaces. The included attachments, such as the crevice tool and upholstery tool, further enhance its versatility in this mode.
When used in Lift-Away mode, the vacuum remains powerful and maneuverable, making it ideal for tackling hard-to-reach areas. This feature provides a significant advantage over traditional upright vacuums that can be cumbersome to use in such scenarios.
Anti-Hair Wrap Technology
One of the most significant challenges with vacuum cleaners, especially for pet owners, is hair entanglement in the brush roll. The Shark AZ910UKT addresses this issue with its Anti-Hair Wrap technology. This feature utilizes a specially designed brush roll and a comb-like structure to actively separate and remove hair, preventing it from wrapping around the brush.
In real-world testing, the Anti-Hair Wrap technology proved highly effective. After multiple cleaning sessions in a household with long-haired pets, there was minimal hair entanglement in the brush roll, significantly reducing the need for manual cleaning and maintenance.
Suction Power and Filtration
The Shark AZ910UKT boasts an impressive suction power of 130 Air Watts, making it capable of tackling even the most stubborn dirt and debris. Whether it’s fine dust on hard floors or embedded pet hair in carpets, this vacuum delivers consistent and thorough cleaning results.
The vacuum also features a HEPA filter and Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology, which captures and traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum. This makes it an excellent choice for allergy sufferers, ensuring that the air in your home remains clean and healthy.
Battery Life
As a corded vacuum cleaner, the Shark AZ910UKT does not rely on battery power. This means you can enjoy uninterrupted cleaning sessions without worrying about battery life or charging times. The 8-meter cord provides ample reach for cleaning large rooms and hallways, although some users may find themselves needing to switch outlets occasionally.
Software and User Experience
Being a vacuum cleaner, the Shark AZ910UKT doesn’t have any software components. The user experience is straightforward and intuitive. The controls are conveniently located on the handle, allowing you to easily switch between floor types and adjust the suction power as needed.
The dust cup is easy to remove and empty, and the filters are simple to access and maintain. The vacuum’s overall design prioritizes ease of use, making it accessible to users of all ages and technical abilities.
Comparison to Competitors
Dyson Ball Animal 2
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is a high-end competitor known for its powerful suction and innovative ball design, enhancing maneuverability. While the Dyson offers slightly stronger suction, the Shark AZ910UKT’s DuoClean technology provides superior performance on hard floors. The Dyson is also more expensive, making the Shark a more budget-friendly option.
Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Rewind Plus
The Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Rewind Plus is a more affordable alternative that still offers decent cleaning performance. However, it lacks the advanced features of the Shark AZ910UKT, such as the DuoClean and Anti-Hair Wrap technologies. The Shark also boasts stronger suction and better overall build quality.
Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog
The Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog is a premium canister vacuum known for its exceptional filtration and quiet operation. While the Miele excels in these areas, the Shark AZ910UKT offers greater versatility with its Lift-Away mode and is more maneuverable in upright mode. The Miele is also significantly more expensive.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful suction on all floor types
- DuoClean technology excels on hard floors
- Lift-Away mode for versatile cleaning
- Anti-Hair Wrap technology is highly effective
- HEPA filtration and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
Cons:
- Can be heavy to maneuver for some users
- May require occasional outlet switching
- Noisy
Value for Money
The Shark AZ910UKT offers excellent value for money, considering its powerful performance, versatile features, and durable build quality. While it may not be the cheapest vacuum cleaner on the market, its advanced technologies and comprehensive cleaning capabilities justify the price. It is particularly well-suited for pet owners and those with mixed flooring types. However, if weight and noise are significant concerns, you might want to explore lighter or quieter alternatives.
Verdict
The Shark AZ910UKT is a powerful and versatile vacuum cleaner that delivers exceptional cleaning performance on all floor types. Its innovative features, such as the DuoClean technology, Lift-Away mode, and Anti-Hair Wrap technology, set it apart from the competition. While it may be a bit heavy for some users, its overall performance and value make it an excellent choice for households seeking a reliable and effective cleaning solution.
Final Score: 8.5/10
