The Shark Rocket AH401 Rocket Vacuum is designed as a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver solution for quick, everyday cleaning. It aims to provide powerful suction in a compact form factor, making it a convenient option for homes with both hard floors and carpets. While it has been around for a while, its simplicity and focus on core cleaning functions continue to appeal to users looking for an affordable and straightforward vacuum. However, some customers have expressed a desire for additional attachments to enhance its functionality.
This vacuum is marketed towards those who need a “grab-and-go” cleaning solution without the bulk and weight of traditional upright vacuums. It stands out with its two interchangeable brushrolls, one for carpets and another for hard floors, and fingertip controls for easy switching between floor types. But does it live up to the expectations?
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
* Lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for quick cleanups.
* Features two interchangeable brushrolls for effective cleaning on both carpets and hard floors.
* Compact design allows for easy storage and reaching under furniture.
* Good suction power for its size, effectively picking up dirt and debris on various surfaces.
* The dust cup is relatively small and may require frequent emptying during larger cleaning sessions.
Verdict: Despite its age, the Shark Rocket AH401 offers decent cleaning performance for its price and intended use, especially for those needing a lightweight option. 7/10
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | AH401 |
| Type | Upright/Stick Vacuum |
| Weight | 9 lbs |
| Cord Length | 25 ft |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.55 gallons |
| Cleaning Path Width | 12 inches |
| Dimensions | 13.78″ x 7.48″ x 32.086″ |
| Wattage | 600 watts |
| Brushroll Types | All-Surface Brushroll, Gentle Touch Hard Floor Brushroll |
| Carpet Height Adjustment | No |
| Edge Cleaning | No |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Price and Availability
The Shark Rocket AH401 Rocket Vacuum can be found at various retailers, including:
- Best Buy: Often available online.
- Lowe’s: Although it may no longer be sold directly on their website, it’s worth checking for availability in physical stores or through third-party sellers.
- eBay: New and used options are frequently available.
- Macy’s: Sometimes available, but often listed as “currently unavailable.”
Pricing can vary, but it generally falls in the range of $100-$150, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. Keep an eye out for deals, especially around holidays.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Rocket AH401 features a lightweight design, primarily constructed from plastic. This makes it easy to carry and maneuver around the house. The emerald green color gives it a distinctive look.
The vacuum weighs only 9 lbs, making it easy to use for extended periods without causing fatigue. The handle includes fingertip controls for switching between hard floor and carpet modes. The design also allows it to fold down almost flat, which is useful for cleaning under furniture.
The build quality is adequate for its price point, but it doesn’t match the robustness of higher-end models like the Shark Stratos UltraLight. Some users have reported issues with the durability of certain components over extended use. The dust cup is easy to remove and empty, but its small size means it needs frequent attention during larger cleaning tasks.
Performance and Features
The Shark Rocket AH401 aims to deliver strong cleaning performance on both hard floors and carpets. It includes two interchangeable brushrolls: an all-surface brushroll for carpets and a gentle-touch brushroll for hard floors.
Hard Floor Cleaning
On hard floors, the Shark Rocket AH401 performs reasonably well, effectively picking up most particles. However, it may struggle slightly with larger debris like cereal. The gentle-touch brushroll is designed to avoid scratching delicate surfaces. Some users have found it particularly effective on laminate floors.
Carpet Cleaning
The vacuum provides decent suction on low-pile carpets, though it may leave behind some debris. Its performance on high-pile carpets is less impressive. It may struggle with pet hair and embedded dirt on thicker carpets.
Maneuverability
Maneuverability is one of the strong suits of this vacuum. Its lightweight design and swivel steering make it easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces. It can also lie flat to clean under beds and other low-profile furniture.
Other Features
- Brushroll Garage: This feature allows for easy access to the brushroll for cleaning and maintenance.
- Pop-Up Dust Cup: The dust cup can be quickly released with a foot pedal for easy emptying.
- Fingertip Controls: Located on the handle, these controls allow for seamless switching between hard floor and carpet modes.
Battery Life
The Shark Rocket AH401 is a corded vacuum, so battery life isn’t a concern. The 25-foot power cord provides a decent cleaning radius without needing to switch outlets frequently.
Software and User Experience
As a traditional corded vacuum, the Shark Rocket AH401 doesn’t have any software or app integrations. The user experience is straightforward: plug it in, choose the appropriate brushroll and speed setting, and start cleaning. The fingertip controls are easy to use, and the overall design is intuitive.
Comparison to Competitors
When compared to other stick vacuums in its price range, the Shark Rocket AH401 holds its own in terms of maneuverability and ease of use. Here’s how it stacks up against a couple of competitors:
- Eureka Blaze: A budget-friendly option, the Eureka Blaze is even lighter than the Shark Rocket AH401. However, it lacks the interchangeable brushrolls and may not perform as well on carpets. The Eureka Blaze also lacks a HEPA filter.
- Shark Stratos UltraLight: A more premium option from Shark, the Stratos UltraLight offers better build quality, stronger suction, and a HEPA filter. However, it comes at a higher price point. The Shark Stratos UltraLight feels sturdier, takes up less room when not in use, and has a longer range.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Interchangeable brushrolls for different floor types
- Compact design for easy storage
- Decent suction power
- Easy-to-empty dust cup
Cons:
- Small dust cup requires frequent emptying
- Not ideal for high-pile carpets
- Lacks attachments for specialized cleaning
- The power cord could be longer
Value for Money
The Shark Rocket AH401 offers good value for money for those seeking a lightweight and versatile vacuum for quick cleanups on hard floors and low-pile carpets. It’s particularly suitable for small apartments or homes where storage space is limited.
However, if you have mostly high-pile carpets or need a vacuum with more specialized attachments, you might want to consider a more powerful and feature-rich model, even if it comes at a higher price.
Verdict
The Shark Rocket AH401 Rocket Vacuum is a decent option for users who prioritize lightweight design and ease of use over advanced features and deep-cleaning power. It performs well on hard floors and low-pile carpets, making it suitable for everyday cleaning tasks. While it has some limitations, its affordability and convenience make it a worthwhile choice for the right user.
Score: 7/10
