The Bissell AeroSlim and Shark WANDVAC are both contenders in the crowded field of cordless stick vacuums, promising lightweight convenience for quick cleanups. These vacuums target consumers seeking an alternative to bulky corded models, offering portability and ease of use for smaller spaces or as secondary cleaning tools. Deciding between the Bissell AeroSlim and the Shark WANDVAC involves weighing their respective strengths in design, performance, and features to determine which best suits your needs. While both aim for similar applications, their approaches differ significantly, influencing their overall effectiveness and user experience.
This review dives deep into the specifics of each vacuum, comparing their build quality, cleaning performance on various surfaces, battery life, and additional features. By examining real-world usage scenarios and performance metrics, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of each model’s capabilities, ultimately helping you make an informed decision about which cordless stick vacuum is the better fit for your home.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Bissell AeroSlim: Compact and ultra-lightweight, excels in handheld mode for spot cleaning and car interiors. Strong suction for its size but limited battery life.
- Shark WANDVAC: More powerful suction on carpets and hard floors, with a larger dustbin and longer runtime. Versatile with its multi-surface brushroll.
- Design: AeroSlim prioritizes extreme portability, while WANDVAC balances portability with more robust cleaning capabilities.
- Value: Both offer good value for the price, but the WANDVAC’s superior performance and battery life make it a better all-around choice for most users.
- Verdict: Shark WANDVAC: 8.0/10. Bissell AeroSlim: 6.5/10
Specifications
| Feature | Bissell AeroSlim | Shark WANDVAC |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number | 2986A | WS620 |
| Weight | 2.6 lbs (handheld) | 2.1 lbs (handheld) / 5.9 lbs (with wand) |
| Dimensions | 4.5″ x 4.5″ x 16.5″ | 10.24″ L x 9.45″ W x 42.91″ H |
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.1 gallons | 0.3 quarts |
| Battery Type | Lithium-Ion | Lithium-Ion |
| Runtime | Up to 12 minutes | Up to 30 minutes |
| Charging Time | 4 hours | 3.5 hours |
| Filtration | Multi-Layer Filtration | Multi-Layer Filtration |
| Surface Recommendation | Hard Floors, Upholstery, Cars | Hard Floors, Carpets, Upholstery, Stairs |
| Attachments | Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush | Multi-Surface Tool, Duster Crevice Tool |
| Cordless | Yes | Yes |
| Voltage | 7.2V | 14.4V |
| Warranty | 1 Year Limited | 2 Year Limited |
Price and Availability
- Bissell AeroSlim: Generally available for \$40-\$50 at major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and the Bissell website. Prices may fluctuate based on sales and promotions.
- Shark WANDVAC: Typically priced between \$150-\$200, available at retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and the SharkClean website. Bundles with additional accessories are sometimes available.
Design and Build Quality
The Bissell AeroSlim is designed with portability in mind. Its compact, handheld form factor makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces and store in small apartments or cars. The build quality is decent for its price point, with a sturdy plastic construction that feels durable enough for everyday use. However, its smaller size also means a smaller dustbin, requiring more frequent emptying.
The Shark WANDVAC strikes a balance between portability and functionality. It can be used as a handheld vacuum for quick cleanups or attached to the wand for floor cleaning. The build quality is noticeably better than the AeroSlim, with more robust materials and a well-engineered design. The WANDVAC’s larger dustbin is a significant advantage, reducing the need for frequent emptying during extended cleaning sessions. While slightly heavier than the AeroSlim in handheld mode, the WANDVAC feels more substantial and capable of handling tougher cleaning tasks. The design is sleek and modern, with intuitive controls and a convenient docking station for storage and charging.
Performance and Features
Cleaning Performance
The Bissell AeroSlim is best suited for quick cleanups on hard surfaces and upholstery. Its strong suction for its size makes it effective at picking up dust, crumbs, and pet hair. However, its performance on carpets is limited due to the lack of a motorized brushroll. In real-world use, the AeroSlim excels in cleaning car interiors and tight corners, thanks to its compact design and included attachments.
The Shark WANDVAC offers superior cleaning performance on both hard floors and carpets. Its multi-surface brushroll effectively agitates carpet fibers, lifting dirt and debris with ease. The powerful suction ensures thorough cleaning on various surfaces, making it a versatile option for different cleaning needs. The WANDVAC’s performance is particularly impressive on pet hair, easily removing it from carpets and upholstery.
Attachments and Accessories
The Bissell AeroSlim comes with a crevice tool and a dusting brush, which are useful for cleaning tight spaces and delicate surfaces. However, the limited number of attachments restricts its versatility compared to the Shark WANDVAC.
The Shark WANDVAC includes a multi-surface tool and a duster crevice tool, providing more options for different cleaning tasks. The multi-surface tool is especially effective on upholstery and stairs, while the duster crevice tool is ideal for cleaning tight corners and edges. The WANDVAC’s attachments are well-designed and easy to switch, enhancing its overall usability.
Maneuverability
The Bissell AeroSlim is incredibly easy to maneuver due to its lightweight and compact design. It can easily reach tight spaces and clean hard-to-reach areas. However, its small size may require more frequent passes to cover larger areas.
The Shark WANDVAC offers good maneuverability, although it is slightly heavier than the AeroSlim. The swivel steering allows for easy navigation around furniture and obstacles. The WANDVAC’s longer reach makes it suitable for cleaning floors and ceilings without straining your back.
Battery Life
The Bissell AeroSlim offers up to 12 minutes of runtime on a full charge, which is adequate for quick cleanups but may be insufficient for larger cleaning tasks. The 4-hour charging time is relatively long compared to its runtime.
The Shark WANDVAC provides up to 30 minutes of runtime, offering more cleaning time between charges. The 3.5-hour charging time is reasonable, and the battery indicator lights allow you to monitor the remaining power. The WANDVAC’s longer battery life makes it a more practical choice for those who need to clean larger areas or multiple rooms.
Software and User Experience
The Bissell AeroSlim has a simple and straightforward design with no complicated software or settings. It is easy to use right out of the box, making it a good option for those who prefer a no-frills cleaning experience.
The Shark WANDVAC features intuitive controls and a user-friendly design. The one-touch operation makes it easy to switch between modes and adjust the suction power. The WANDVAC’s docking station provides a convenient place to store and charge the vacuum, keeping it readily available for quick cleanups.
Comparison to Competitors
- Dyson V8: The Dyson V8 offers superior suction power and battery life compared to both the Bissell AeroSlim and Shark WANDVAC, but it comes at a higher price point. The V8 is a better choice for those who need a more powerful and versatile cordless vacuum for whole-house cleaning.
- Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean+: The Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean+ is a similar handheld vacuum to the Bissell AeroSlim, offering good suction and portability for a lower price. However, it lacks the WANDVAC’s versatility and carpet cleaning capabilities.
Pros and Cons
Bissell AeroSlim
Pros:
- Ultra-lightweight and compact
- Strong suction for its size
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Limited battery life
- Small dustbin capacity
- Poor carpet cleaning performance
Shark WANDVAC
Pros:
- Powerful suction on carpets and hard floors
- Longer battery life
- Larger dustbin capacity
Cons:
- More expensive than AeroSlim
- Slightly heavier than AeroSlim
- Can be a bit bulky with wand attached
Value for Money(Is it)
- Bissell AeroSlim: The Bissell AeroSlim offers good value for those seeking an ultra-portable handheld vacuum for quick cleanups. Its affordable price and strong suction make it a decent option for small apartments, cars, and spot cleaning. However, its limited battery life and poor carpet cleaning performance may deter some users.
- Shark WANDVAC: The Shark WANDVAC provides excellent value for its price, offering superior cleaning performance, longer battery life, and a larger dustbin compared to the Bissell AeroSlim. Its versatility and effectiveness on various surfaces make it a worthwhile investment for those who need a more capable cordless stick vacuum.
Verdict
The Shark WANDVAC is the better choice for most users. Its superior cleaning performance, longer battery life, and larger dustbin make it a more versatile and practical option for everyday cleaning tasks. While the Bissell AeroSlim is more affordable and ultra-portable, its limitations in battery life and carpet cleaning make it less suitable for larger homes or those with extensive carpeting.
Final Score:
- Shark WANDVAC: 8.0/10
- Bissell AeroSlim: 6.5/10
