The Bissell Icon Pet and Shark cordless vacuums represent two strong contenders in the competitive cordless vacuum market, both vying for the attention of pet owners and those seeking convenient cleaning solutions. The Bissell Icon Pet is designed with pet hair in mind, offering specialized tools and features to tackle stubborn messes. Shark cordless vacuums, known for their innovative designs and powerful suction, also provide compelling options. Choosing between these two brands involves a detailed look at their design, performance, battery life, and specific features to determine which best suits your needs.
This review aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the Bissell Icon Pet and Shark cordless vacuum cleaners, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision. We’ll delve into their specifications, performance metrics, and real-world usability, so you can confidently select the ideal cordless vacuum for your home.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Bissell Icon Pet: Excels in pet hair removal with specialized tools and a powerful brush roll.
- Shark Cordless: Offers innovative features like DuoClean technology and impressive suction power.
- Battery Life: Both offer comparable battery life, but usage depends on the power mode and attachments used.
- Design: Shark vacuums often have more flexible designs, such as self-standing capabilities and flexible wands, whereas Bissell focuses on lightweight maneuverability.
- Verdict: The choice depends on specific needs. The Bissell Icon Pet is better for dedicated pet owners, while Shark offers more versatility for general cleaning tasks.
Specifications
| Feature | Bissell Icon Pet | Shark Cordless Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Cordless Stick Vacuum | Cordless Stick Vacuum |
| Weight | 7 lbs | 7 – 9 lbs (depending on the specific model) |
| Battery Life | Up to 50 minutes | Up to 60 minutes (depending on the specific model) |
| Charge Time | 4 hours | 3.5 hours |
| Suction Power | Varies by model; typically around 400 AW | Varies by model; can reach up to 200 AW |
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.4 Liters | 0.45 – 0.7 Liters (depending on the specific model) |
| Filtration | Sealed Allergen System | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Attachments | Motorized brush tool, crevice tool, dusting brush | Crevice tool, upholstery tool, motorized pet brush (depending on the model) |
| Special Features | Tangle-Free Brush Roll, Smart Seal Allergen System | DuoClean Technology, Self-Cleaning Brush Roll, Flexology Wand (depending on the model) |
| MSRP | $349 | $299 – $499 (depending on the model) |
Price and Availability
The Bissell Icon Pet is typically priced around $349 and is available at major retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and the Bissell website. Prices may vary depending on promotions and sales events.
Shark cordless vacuums range from $299 to $499, depending on the specific model and features. They are widely available at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, and the SharkClean website. Bundles and refurbished options can sometimes offer better value.
Design and Build Quality
The Bissell Icon Pet is designed with a focus on lightweight maneuverability. Weighing around 7 lbs, it’s easy to carry around the house and up stairs. The build quality is solid, with durable plastics that can withstand regular use. The design is sleek and modern, available in various color options.
Shark cordless vacuums often feature innovative designs such as the DuoClean technology, which uses two brush rolls to capture both large and small particles. Some Shark models also include the Flexology wand, which allows for easy cleaning under furniture. The build quality is generally robust, though some users find certain plastic components less premium compared to higher-end models. Shark’s self-standing designs provide convenient storage options.
Performance and Features
Suction Power
The Bissell Icon Pet offers strong suction power, specifically designed to tackle pet hair on various surfaces. Its motorized brush tool is effective at lifting embedded hair from carpets and upholstery. Real-world tests show it performs well on both hard floors and carpets, though it may require multiple passes on heavily soiled areas.
Shark cordless vacuums are known for their powerful suction capabilities. The DuoClean technology enhances their performance on hard floors by capturing fine dust and debris. On carpets, Shark vacuums perform admirably, often outperforming competitors in initial dirt pickup tests.
Brush Roll Technology
The Bissell Icon Pet features a Tangle-Free Brush Roll, which effectively minimizes hair wrapping and reduces the need for manual cleaning. This is a significant advantage for pet owners dealing with long hair.
Shark offers various brush roll technologies, including self-cleaning brush rolls that actively remove hair and debris during use. Some models also include soft brush rolls for gentle cleaning on hard floors.
Maneuverability
The Bissell Icon Pet’s lightweight design contributes to its excellent maneuverability. It’s easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces. The swivel steering allows for smooth transitions between different floor types.
Shark cordless vacuums, particularly those with the Flexology wand, offer exceptional maneuverability. The flexible wand makes it easy to reach under furniture without bending over. Swivel steering and balanced weight distribution also contribute to ease of use.
Attachments
The Bissell Icon Pet comes with several useful attachments, including a motorized brush tool for upholstery and stairs, a crevice tool for tight spaces, and a dusting brush for delicate surfaces. These attachments enhance its versatility for various cleaning tasks.
Shark cordless vacuums typically include a crevice tool, an upholstery tool, and sometimes a motorized pet brush. The range of attachments varies by model, with some offering specialized tools for specific cleaning needs.
Battery Life
The Bissell Icon Pet provides up to 50 minutes of run time on a full charge, depending on the power mode and attachments used. In high-power mode, the battery life is significantly reduced. Charging takes approximately 4 hours.
Shark cordless vacuums offer up to 60 minutes of run time, depending on the model and usage conditions. Charging times are generally around 3.5 hours. Some Shark models feature removable batteries, allowing for extended cleaning sessions with an additional battery.
Software and User Experience
The Bissell Icon Pet is straightforward to use, with intuitive controls and a user-friendly design. The LED display indicates battery life and power settings. Maintenance is simple, with easy-to-empty dustbins and washable filters.
Shark cordless vacuums also offer a user-friendly experience, with clear controls and easy-to-empty dustbins. Some models feature LED headlights to illuminate dark areas. The self-cleaning brush roll is a notable convenience feature.
Comparison to Competitors
- Dyson V8 Absolute: The Dyson V8 Absolute is a strong competitor, offering powerful suction and versatile attachments. However, it is more expensive than both the Bissell Icon Pet and Shark cordless vacuums. The Dyson also has a smaller dustbin capacity.
- LG CordZero A9: The LG CordZero A9 provides excellent battery life and a telescopic wand for adjustable reach. It is priced higher than the Bissell and Shark, but it offers premium features like a Kompressor dustbin that compacts debris.
Pros and Cons
Bissell Icon Pet
Pros:
- Excellent pet hair removal
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Tangle-free brush roll
Cons:
- Smaller dustbin capacity
- Shorter battery life in high-power mode
Shark Cordless
Pros:
- Powerful suction
- Innovative features like DuoClean and Flexology
- Self-cleaning brush roll
Cons:
- Some plastic components feel less premium
- Can be heavier than the Bissell Icon Pet
Value for Money
Is the Bissell Icon Pet Worth the Money?
The Bissell Icon Pet offers good value for money, especially for pet owners needing a reliable and effective cordless vacuum. Its specialized features and solid performance justify its price point.
Is the Shark Cordless Worth the Money?
Shark cordless vacuums provide excellent value, offering innovative features and strong performance at a competitive price. They are a versatile option for general cleaning and specific needs like pet hair removal.
Verdict
Both the Bissell Icon Pet and Shark cordless vacuums are excellent choices, but the best option depends on your specific needs. The Bissell Icon Pet is ideal for pet owners seeking a lightweight and effective solution for pet hair. Shark cordless vacuums offer more versatility with innovative features like DuoClean and Flexology, making them suitable for a wider range of cleaning tasks.
