The Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 and the Shark DuoClean series represent two distinct approaches to tackling household dirt and debris. Dyson, known for its innovative engineering and powerful suction, offers the Ball Multi Floor 2 as a versatile upright vacuum designed to navigate various floor types with ease. Shark, on the other hand, champions its DuoClean technology, featuring a unique brushroll system engineered to capture both large and small particles effectively. Both vacuums aim to simplify the cleaning process, but their differing designs, features, and performance characteristics cater to different user preferences and needs.
In this review, we’ll delve into a detailed comparison of the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 and the Shark DuoClean, examining their design, build quality, performance on different surfaces, features, and overall value. We’ll put these vacuums through rigorous testing, analyzing their suction power, maneuverability, and ability to handle various cleaning tasks, from pet hair removal to deep carpet cleaning. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which vacuum is the better choice for your specific home and cleaning requirements.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2: Excels in maneuverability and powerful suction, making it ideal for homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors. However, its dustbin capacity and bulky design can be drawbacks. Verdict: 8.2/10
- Shark DuoClean: Offers exceptional versatility with its DuoClean technology, effectively capturing both large and small debris. Its lightweight design and included attachments make it a strong contender for comprehensive cleaning. Verdict: 8.5/10
- Surface Performance: Dyson excels on carpets, while Shark’s DuoClean shines on hard floors, meaning your choice depends on the prevalent flooring in your home.
- Features: Both vacuums offer useful features such as HEPA filters and specialized tools, but Shark generally includes more attachments, increasing its overall utility.
- Value: Shark DuoClean models often provide a better price-to-performance ratio, making them a more accessible option for budget-conscious buyers.
Specifications
| Feature | Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 | Shark DuoClean |
| ——————– | ———————————————————————————— | ———————————————————————————- |
| Type | Upright | Upright (various models) |
| Weight | 15.6 lbs | 9 – 17 lbs (depending on the model) |
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.55 gallons | 0.9 quarts – 1.8 quarts (depending on the model) |
| Cord Length | 31 feet | 25 – 30 feet (depending on the model) |
| Filtration | Whole-machine HEPA filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA filter |
| Brushroll Type | Motorized brushroll | DuoClean: Soft brushroll + bristle brushroll |
| Attachments | Combination tool, stair tool | Various, depending on the model (crevice tool, upholstery tool, pet power brush) |
| Swivel Steering | Ball technology | Yes |
| Wattage | 1400 W | 800-1200W (depending on the model) |
| Dimensions | 13.4 x 12.2 x 41.9 inches | Varies by model |
| Additional Features | Instant-release wand, self-adjusting cleaner head | Lift-Away feature (some models), LED headlights |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty | 5-year limited warranty (depending on the model) |
Price and Availability
The Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 typically retails between \$300 and \$400, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. It’s widely available at major retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and the Dyson website.
Shark DuoClean vacuums vary in price from \$150 to \$400, depending on the specific model and features. You can find them at similar retailers, including Amazon, Walmart, Kohl’s, and the SharkClean website. Keep an eye out for bundle deals that include additional attachments or accessories, which can significantly enhance the value proposition.
Design and Build Quality
The Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 features a distinctive design centered around Dyson’s signature ball technology, which allows for smooth maneuverability around furniture and obstacles. The vacuum feels robust, constructed with durable plastics and a sturdy frame. However, its bulkier size and heavier weight can make it less convenient to store and carry up stairs compared to more compact models.
Shark DuoClean vacuums are generally lighter and more modular in design. Many models incorporate the Lift-Away feature, allowing you to detach the canister for easier cleaning of stairs and hard-to-reach areas. The build quality is solid, though some users find the plastic components less premium than those used in Dyson vacuums. The DuoClean brushroll system, with its soft brushroll for hard floors and bristle brushroll for carpets, is a standout design element that sets it apart from traditional vacuums.
Performance and Features
Suction Power and Cleaning Performance
The Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 is renowned for its powerful suction, effectively lifting dirt and debris from carpets and hard floors. In testing, it performed exceptionally well on medium and high-pile carpets, removing embedded dirt and pet hair with ease. However, its suction can sometimes be too strong for delicate rugs or bare floors, requiring careful adjustment of the cleaner head.
Shark DuoClean vacuums utilize a dual-brushroll system that excels on both carpets and hard floors. The soft brushroll gently polishes hard floors while picking up fine dust and larger particles, while the bristle brushroll agitates carpet fibers for thorough cleaning. Many users report that the Shark DuoClean performs particularly well at capturing fine dust and crumbs on hard floors, outperforming traditional vacuums with single brushrolls.
Maneuverability
Dyson’s Ball technology provides excellent maneuverability, allowing the vacuum to pivot and turn effortlessly around furniture and tight spaces. However, some users find the ball design can be slightly awkward when navigating very tight corners or cleaning under low-profile furniture.
Shark DuoClean vacuums are generally lighter and easier to push than the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2. The swivel steering allows for good maneuverability, and the Lift-Away feature provides added flexibility for cleaning stairs and above-floor areas.
Attachments and Versatility
The Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 comes with a combination tool and a stair tool, which are useful for cleaning upholstery, crevices, and stairs. However, some users find the attachment selection limited compared to other vacuums in its price range.
Shark DuoClean vacuums often include a wider range of attachments, such as a crevice tool, upholstery tool, and pet power brush. These attachments, combined with the Lift-Away feature, make Shark DuoClean vacuums more versatile for tackling various cleaning tasks throughout the home.
Battery Life (if applicable)
Since both the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 and Shark DuoClean vacuums are corded models, battery life is not applicable. The cord length is adequate for most rooms, though some users with larger homes may need to switch outlets to reach all areas.
Software and User Experience (if applicable)
As traditional corded vacuums, the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 and Shark DuoClean do not rely on complex software or apps. Their user experience is straightforward and intuitive, with simple controls for power, brushroll settings, and attachment changes.
Comparison to Competitors
Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 vs. Bissell CleanView
The Bissell CleanView is a more budget-friendly option that offers decent suction power for everyday cleaning. However, it lacks the advanced maneuverability of the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 and doesn’t perform as well on thick carpets. The Dyson excels in overall cleaning performance and build quality, justifying its higher price point for those seeking a premium vacuuming experience.
Shark DuoClean vs. Hoover WindTunnel
The Hoover WindTunnel is another popular upright vacuum known for its powerful suction and multi-cyclonic technology. While it performs well on carpets, it struggles on hard floors compared to the Shark DuoClean, which utilizes its dual-brushroll system to capture fine dust and debris effectively. The Shark also offers more versatility with its Lift-Away feature and a wider range of attachments.
Pros and Cons
Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2
Pros:
- Powerful suction
- Excellent maneuverability with Ball technology
- Durable build quality
- HEPA filtration
Cons:
- Smaller dustbin capacity
- Bulky design
- Limited attachments
- Higher price point
Shark DuoClean
Pros:
- DuoClean technology excels on both hard floors and carpets
- Lift-Away feature for added versatility
- Lightweight design
- Wider range of attachments
- Generally more affordable
Cons:
- Build quality may not be as premium as Dyson
- Canister can feel less stable in Lift-Away mode
Value for Money
The Shark DuoClean generally offers better value for money due to its versatile cleaning performance, included attachments, and more affordable price point. While the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 boasts superior suction power and maneuverability, its higher cost and limited features may not be justified for all users.
Verdict
Both the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 and the Shark DuoClean are capable vacuums that offer distinct advantages. The Dyson excels in raw suction power and maneuverability, making it a great choice for homes with primarily carpeted floors. However, the Shark DuoClean stands out with its versatile cleaning performance on both hard floors and carpets, lightweight design, and a wider range of attachments. For most users, the Shark DuoClean offers a better balance of performance, features, and value.
Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2: 8.2/10
Shark DuoClean: 8.5/10
