Carpet cleaners are essential for tackling tough stains and maintaining a fresh, hygienic home, especially if you have pets. BISSELL and Shark are two leading brands in this market, each offering powerful carpet cleaners designed for different cleaning needs. Choosing between the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus and the Shark CarpetXpert with Stain Striker can be challenging, as both vacuums have unique strengths and cater to different user priorities. This review provides a detailed comparison to help you determine which model offers the best carpet cleaning solution for your specific requirements. We’ll delve into their design, performance, features, and overall user experience, ensuring you make an informed decision.
BISSELL has a long-standing reputation in deep cleaning, and its ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is known for its professional-grade features, including Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes and a versatile 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool. Shark, on the other hand, has gained popularity for its innovative technology, and its CarpetXpert with StainStriker showcases this with a unique dual-formula system that delivers 20X more stain-striking power. Both models offer powerful solutions for dirty carpets, making it crucial to understand their key differences to make the best choice for your home.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Cleaning Performance : The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus offers more powerful and customizable deep cleaning, particularly for tough stains and embedded dirt, thanks to its Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes and three distinct cleaning modes (Max, Deep, Express). The Shark CarpetXpert with Stain Striker excels in targeted stain elimination with its innovative OXY-mixing handheld tool, while its automated floor cleaning provides strong suction for effective, simplified cleaning.
- Design and Maneuverability : The BISSELL model is lighter at 17.4 lbs and features a sturdy, fixed carrying handle, making it more manageable to move between rooms and up stairs. The Shark model is significantly heavier at 22.9 lbs and has been noted for a less robust plastic build. Its design is also prone to spills from the tanks, and the hose storage is less secure, impacting overall ease of handling.
- Features and Technology : Both brands incorporate unique features. BISSELL includes specialized technology like the foot-activated CleanShot® Pre-Treater for targeting stains, HeatWave Technology to help maintain water temperature, and a versatile 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool. Shark features its advanced StainStriker Technology, which mixes two separate formulas for 20X more stain-striking power, and a “Dry Only Mode” for quicker drying capabilities.
- Value and Included Components : BISSELL provides a comprehensive package with multiple attachments, including the 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool, a 3″ Tough Stain Tool, and an accessory bag for storage, offering versatile value out of the box. Shark includes its innovative StainStriker tool and a hose cleaning tool, focusing its value on its specialized, high-power spot treatment system. (Note: The provided text identifies the EX200 as missing one attachment compared to the EX201).
- Verdict : The best choice depends on your specific needs. For heavy-duty, whole-home cleaning and tackling stubborn pet stains with customizable power, the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is the preferred option. If you prioritize cutting-edge, powerful spot and stain elimination and a more automated floor cleaning process, the Shark CarpetXpert with Stain Striker is an excellent choice, particularly for homes without wood subfloors.
Specifications
To provide a clear comparison, let’s look at the specifications of a representative model from each brand: the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro and the Shark CarpetXpert EX200.
| Feature | Shark CarpetXpert with Stain Striker (EX200) | BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus (3588F) |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number | EX200 Series | 3588F |
| Item Weight | 22.9 pounds | 17.38 pounds (7.9 kg) |
| Power Source | Corded Electric | Corded Electric |
| Power Rating | Not specified | 6.8 Amps |
| Hose Length | Not specified | 8 feet |
| Clean Water Tank Capacity | Not specified | 1 Gallon |
| Cleaning Modes | 2 Modes: Deep Clean, Quick Dry / Dry Only | 3 Modes: Max Clean, Deep Clean, Express Clean |
| Spot Treatment | Integrated Stain Striker Hand Tool | Foot-activated CleanShot® Pre-Treater |
| Water Heating | No (Max water temp 140°F) | HeatWave Technology (maintains temp) |
| Key Attachments | Integrated Stain Striker tool, Hose cleaning tool | 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool, 3″ Tough Stain Tool |
| Storage | On-board cord hooks, hose wrap grooves, tool clip | Accessory bag included |
| Special Features | – StainStriker Dual-Formula Technology – Power Off Delay Suction – Removable Nozzle Cover | – Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes – Edge Brushes – 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery Tool (Wet/Dry) |
| ASIN | B0CTRQJT3S | B0B94P5LDK |
| Date First Available | February 1, 2024 | Not specified |
Price and Availability
- Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro: he Shark CarpetXpert is available for purchase on Amazon, with the provided product details referencing the ASIN B0CTRQJT3S.
- Shark CarpetXpert EX200: This model is a #11 Best Seller in Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Machines on Amazon, confirming its strong presence and availability on the platform under ASIN B0B94P5LDK.
When comparing the Shark CarpetXpert EX200 and the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus on Amazon, shoppers should look closely at the product listings. Both vacuums include starter cleaning formulas, but it’s common to find bundles or deals that include additional accessories or full-size solution bottles, which can provide better value.
Design and Build Quality
Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is designed as a functional and user-friendly upright cleaner. At 17.4 pounds, it is the lighter of the two vacuums, which, combined with a sturdy, fixed carrying handle, aids in moving it between rooms. Its design features a traditional recline pedal and a large 1-gallon clean water tank, a significant advantage that reduces the need for frequent refills during extensive cleaning sessions.
This vacuum also includes practical design elements like edge brushes for cleaning along baseboards and a quick-release cord wrap. The included 8-foot hose and accessory bag for tool storage reflect a focus on whole-home cleaning versatility.
Shark CarpetXpert EX200
The Shark CarpetXpert EX200 is noted for a build quality that feels somewhat less sturdy and cheaper than other Shark products, with less robust plastic construction. Weighing a substantial 22.9 pounds, it is the heavier model, which could impact maneuverability. Its design is prone to usability quirks; the tanks are held by friction clips and can be difficult to fill and insert without spilling, and the vacuum should not be tipped backward.
The hose storage system is also noted as being insecure, with clips that can be knocked off easily. On the positive side, the design allows for easy maintenance with a front nozzle cover that lifts for direct access to the brush roll area.
Performance and Features
Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus excels in deep cleaning performance, driven by its TURBOSTRENGTH MOTOR TECHNOLOGY and a professional-grade brush system. These features work together to effectively remove embedded stains, dirt, and tough odors. Its standout feature is the three-mode cleaning system, offering users customized control over cleaning intensity and drying time, from a MAX Clean mode that is advertised to out-clean leading rentals, to an Express Clean mode for carpets that dry in about 30 minutes.
- Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes:Â This vacuum features two brush rollers with a total of 12 rows of bristles. This system provides powerful agitation to reach deep into carpet fibers, dislodging and removing embedded dirt and grime for a professional-grade clean.
- HeatWave Technology:Â This feature helps maintain the temperature of the hot water you add to the tank. It works by venting hot air from the motor around the tank and at the base, which enhances the effectiveness of the cleaning solution and assists in faster drying times.
- Targeted Stain Removal: The foot-operated CleanShot® Pre-Treater allows you to spray a targeted stream of cleaning solution directly onto tough stains before cleaning, breaking them down for easier removal. This is complemented by the versatile 2-in-1 Pet Upholstery tool, designed to tackle pet messes on furniture and stairs.
- Edge Cleaning:Â The design includes small Edge Brushes on the sides of the cleaning head. This allows you to clean more effectively along baseboards and trim, ensuring a thorough clean across your entire carpeted area.
Shark CarpetXpert EX200
The Shark CarpetXpert EX200 offers impressive cleaning performance, particularly for tough stain elimination and everyday dirt removal. Its CarpetXpert technology is designed to provide a deep clean with each pass by combining powerful suction with a high-speed brushroll. The vacuum is easy to operate with a simplified, triggerless system, making it a great option for straightforward floor cleaning. The dedicated “Quick Dry” mode is effective at reducing drying time by focusing solely on water extraction, allowing you to get back to your routine faster.
- CarpetXpert Technology:Â This system combines a high-speed brushroll, a high-pressure PowerSpray, and powerful Shark suction. This trio works together to scrub and lift dirt and grime from carpet fibers, delivering what Shark claims is “unbeatable deep carpet cleaning.”
- Poor Water Extraction on Wood Subfloors:Â A critical performance note is its struggle to extract water efficiently on second-floor carpets over wood subfloors, leaving them very wet. This makes it less suitable for multi-level homes with this type of construction due to the risk of soaking the wood.
- Automated and Simplified Use:Â The floor cleaning process is streamlined with no spray trigger; the vacuum automatically dispenses solution on the forward pass and suctions on the backward pass. The simple handle controls for power and mode selection make it easy to operate, even for first-time carpet cleaner users.
- StainStriker Technology:Â The built-in handheld StainStriker tool is the standout feature. It is highly effective for targeting and removing specific stains by mixing two unique formulas (Shark Deep Clean Pro and Shark Stain Striker OXY Multiplier) on contact, unleashing the power of OXY for what is claimed to be 20X more stain-striking power.
Power Cord and Reach
As both the BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus and the Shark CarpetXpert EX200 are corded vacuums, battery life is not applicable. The BISSELL model features a long 35-foot power cord, providing ample reach for cleaning large rooms without needing to switch outlets frequently. The cord length for the Shark model was not specified in the provided details.
User Experience and Ease of Use
Since both the BISSELL and Shark models are mechanical carpet cleaners, there is no software to evaluate. The user experience is determined by the physical design, controls, and maintenance procedures.
BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus (3588F)
The BISSELL vacuum offers a user-friendly experience with clear controls and processes. The 1-gallon clean water tank is easy to remove, fill with clearly marked lines for water and formula, and re-insert. Maintenance is straightforward, with a removable nozzle and brush covers, plus an included tool for cleaning hair from the dual brush rollers. The primary user interaction during cleaning involves a simple solution trigger on the handle and a foot pedal to recline the vacuum.
Shark CarpetXpert with Stain Striker (EX200 Series)
The Shark vacuum presents a mixed user experience. It excels in simplicity with its automated, triggerless floor cleaning system and simple handle-mounted buttons for power and mode selection. However, it has significant design quirks that detract from ease of use. The tanks are held by friction clips and are prone to spilling during filling and insertion. The dirty water tank is small, requiring frequent emptying, and the hose storage system is described as insecure. A notable drawback is its poor performance on carpets over wood subfloors, which is a major consideration for the user experience in many homes.
Comparison to Competitors
Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro vs. Hoover SmartWash Automatic Carpet Cleaner
The Hoover SmartWash is another strong contender in the carpet cleaner market. While the Hoover offers similar automatic cleaning technology, the Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro provides superior stain removal and a more robust build quality. The Bissell’s Heatwave Technology also gives it an edge in maintaining consistent water temperature for better cleaning results.
Shark CarpetXpert EX200 vs. Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3
The Rug Doctor Mighty Pro X3 is a heavy-duty carpet cleaner known for its powerful suction and deep cleaning capabilities. However, it is significantly heavier and more expensive than the Shark CarpetXpert EX200. The Shark offers a more convenient and user-friendly option for regular home use, while the Rug Doctor is better suited for professional or commercial applications.
Pros and Cons
BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus (3588F)
Pros:
- Powerful deep cleaning
- Versatile cleaning modes
- Large 1-gallon tank capacity
- HeatWave Technology
- Specialized pet stain tools
- Lighter of the two models
Cons:
- Can be difficult to balance on stairs
- Requires regular brush and filter cleaning
- Does not have a built-in water heater
Shark CarpetXpert with Stain Striker (EX200 Series)
Pros:
- Exceptional spot and stain removal
- Strong suction power
- Easy, automated floor cleaning
- Quick drying mode
- Easy to access brush roll
Cons:
- Poor water pickup on wood subfloors
- Prone to spilling and leaks
- Heavier and less sturdy build
- Insecure hose storage
- Small dirty water tank
Value for Money (Is Bissell ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Worth It?)
The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus offers excellent value for money if you prioritize powerful, customizable deep cleaning and versatile stain removal. Its robust features—including the Dual DirtLifter PowerBrushes, three cleaning modes, and specialized pet tools—justify the investment, especially for pet owners or households with heavily soiled, high-traffic areas.
However, if your primary need is a vacuum focused specifically on aggressive spot treatment rather than whole-home deep cleaning, the Shark CarpetXpert’s targeted system may be a more suitable option.
Verdict
The choice between the BISSELL and Shark carpet cleaners ultimately depends on your specific home environment and cleaning priorities. The BISSELL ProHeat 2X Revolution Pet Pro Plus is the better option for those who require versatile, powerful deep cleaning and effective stain removal across the entire home, particularly in households with pets. Its robust features, customizable cleaning modes, and specialized tools make it a worthwhile investment for tackling embedded dirt and maintaining fresh carpets on any floor type.
On the other hand, the Shark CarpetXpert with Stain Striker is an excellent choice for users who prioritize aggressive, immediate spot and stain elimination above all else. Its innovative StainStriker tool offers unparalleled power for targeted treatments. While its significant design flaws—like the tendency to spill and poor performance on wood subfloors—make it less ideal for whole-home deep cleaning, it offers a compelling solution for handling acute messes and spills with incredible effectiveness.
