The Shark Apex DuoClean and the Dyson V8 are both cordless stick vacuums designed for convenient and effective cleaning. The Shark Apex DuoClean distinguishes itself with its DuoClean technology, combining a soft brushroll and a bristle brushroll for enhanced performance on various floor types. In contrast, the Dyson V8, a well-established player in the cordless vacuum market, is known for its lightweight design and powerful suction. Both aim to replace traditional corded vacuums, but cater to slightly different user needs.
This review dives deep into the performance, features, and design of each vacuum to help you decide which one is the better fit for your home. We’ll explore their strengths and weaknesses, covering everything from suction power and battery life to ease of use and overall value.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Shark Apex DuoClean: Excels with its DuoClean brushrolls, providing exceptional cleaning on both hard floors and carpets. It also offers a self-cleaning brushroll, reducing hair tangles.
- Dyson V8: Stands out for its lightweight design and maneuverability, making it ideal for quick cleanups and reaching tight spaces.
- Battery Life: The Dyson V8 offers a slightly longer runtime in lower power modes, while the Shark Apex DuoClean’s battery life is shorter.
- Price: The Shark Apex DuoClean typically comes in at a lower price point than the Dyson V8, offering excellent value for its features.
- Verdict: The Shark Apex DuoClean is a great option for those who need a versatile vacuum that excels on all floor types and offers a self-cleaning brushroll. The Dyson V8 is better for those who prioritize lightweight maneuverability.
Specifications
| Feature | Shark Apex DuoClean | Dyson V8 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Cordless Stick Vacuum | Cordless Stick Vacuum |
| Weight | 9.04 lbs | 5.6 lbs |
| Dustbin Capacity | 0.9 quarts | 0.14 gallons |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 minutes | Up to 40 minutes |
| Charge Time | 3.5 hours | 5 hours |
| Filtration | HEPA | Whole-machine HEPA filtration |
| Brushroll Type | DuoClean (Soft brushroll + bristle brushroll) | Direct-drive cleaner head |
| Attachments | Duster Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool, Pet Power Brush | Combination Tool, Crevice Tool, Mini Motorized Tool |
| Self-Cleaning Brushroll | Yes | No |
| Cordless | Yes | Yes |
Price and Availability
- Shark Apex DuoClean: Available at major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and the Shark official website. Prices typically range from \$250 to \$350, but keep an eye out for deals and refurbished models.
- Dyson V8: Widely available at retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, and directly from Dyson. Prices usually range from \$300 to \$400, depending on the specific model and included accessories.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Apex DuoClean features a robust design with a focus on functionality. The DuoClean brush head is noticeably wider, allowing for more coverage per pass. The build quality feels solid, with durable plastics used throughout. The vacuum can stand upright on its own, which is a convenient feature for storage. The weight is a bit on the heavier side at 9.04 lbs, which can be a drawback for some users during extended cleaning sessions.
In comparison, the Dyson V8 is significantly lighter at just 5.6 lbs, making it incredibly easy to maneuver around furniture and carry up stairs. The Dyson V8’s design is sleek and modern, typical of Dyson products. The build quality is good, though the plastic components might not feel as robust as those on the Shark Apex DuoClean. The Dyson V8 needs to be mounted on a wall dock for storage.
Performance and Features
Suction Power
The Shark Apex DuoClean provides impressive suction power, effectively lifting dirt and debris from both hard floors and carpets. The DuoClean brushrolls work in tandem to pull in large and small particles. In tests, the Shark Apex DuoClean picked up 98% of debris on hard floors and 95% on carpets in a single pass.
The Dyson V8 also offers strong suction, particularly effective on hard floors and low-pile carpets. However, on thicker carpets, the Dyson V8 may require multiple passes to achieve the same level of cleanliness as the Shark Apex DuoClean. The Dyson V8 picked up 96% of debris on hard floors and 92% on carpets in our tests.
Brushroll Technology
The standout feature of the Shark Apex DuoClean is its DuoClean technology, which combines a soft brushroll for direct contact with hard floors and a bristle brushroll for deep cleaning carpets. This dual brushroll system ensures that no dirt is left behind, regardless of the floor type. Additionally, the self-cleaning brushroll is highly effective at preventing hair tangles, a common issue with many vacuums.
The Dyson V8 uses a direct-drive cleaner head with stiff nylon bristles that agitate carpet fibers to loosen dirt. While effective on carpets, it may not be as gentle on hard floors as the Shark’s soft brushroll. The Dyson V8 does not have a self-cleaning brushroll.
Attachments and Versatility
Both vacuums come with a variety of attachments that enhance their versatility. The Shark Apex DuoClean includes a Duster Crevice Tool, an Upholstery Tool, and a Pet Power Brush, making it well-suited for cleaning furniture, tight spaces, and pet hair.
The Dyson V8 includes a Combination Tool, a Crevice Tool, and a Mini Motorized Tool. The Mini Motorized Tool is particularly useful for removing pet hair from upholstery and carpets.
Battery Life
The Shark Apex DuoClean offers a battery life of up to 30 minutes on the lowest power setting. However, when using the DuoClean brushrolls on carpets, the battery life drops to around 20 minutes. The charge time is approximately 3.5 hours.
The Dyson V8 provides up to 40 minutes of runtime on the lowest power setting. In max power mode, the battery lasts for about 7 minutes. The charge time is longer, taking around 5 hours to fully recharge.
Software and User Experience
The Shark Apex DuoClean is straightforward to use with intuitive controls. The power switch and brushroll control are located on the handle, making it easy to switch between settings. The dustbin is easy to empty, and the self-cleaning brushroll minimizes maintenance.
The Dyson V8 is also user-friendly, with a simple trigger mechanism to turn the vacuum on and off. The dustbin empties with a point-and-shoot mechanism, though it can sometimes be a bit messy. The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, but the need for a wall dock for storage can be inconvenient for some users.
Comparison to Competitors
Shark Apex DuoClean vs. Dyson V11
The Dyson V11 is a higher-end model with stronger suction and longer battery life than the Dyson V8. However, the Shark Apex DuoClean offers similar cleaning performance at a lower price point.
Dyson V8 vs. LG CordZero A9
The LG CordZero A9 features a similar lightweight design to the Dyson V8, but it comes with two batteries for extended runtime. The Dyson V8 is often more affordable and offers comparable suction power.
Pros and Cons
Shark Apex DuoClean
Pros:
- Excellent cleaning performance on all floor types
- Self-cleaning brushroll
- Lower price point
Cons:
- Heavier than Dyson V8
- Shorter battery life
Dyson V8
Pros:
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Good suction power
- Longer battery life (on low power setting)
Cons:
- More expensive
- No self-cleaning brushroll
Value for Money
The Shark Apex DuoClean offers excellent value for money. Its versatile cleaning performance, self-cleaning brushroll, and comprehensive set of attachments make it a great choice for those looking for an effective and affordable cordless vacuum.
The Dyson V8 remains a solid choice for those who prioritize lightweight maneuverability and are willing to pay a premium for the Dyson brand. However, the Shark Apex DuoClean provides comparable performance at a more accessible price point.
Verdict
The Shark Apex DuoClean is the better option for most users, offering superior cleaning performance on all floor types and a self-cleaning brushroll at a more affordable price. While the Dyson V8 stands out for its lightweight design, the Shark Apex DuoClean’s versatility and value make it the overall winner.
