Shark AX952 vs NV680: Cleaning Power Showdown

The Shark AX952 APEX and the Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away are both popular upright vacuums designed for whole-home cleaning. They both feature Shark’s signature Lift-Away technology, allowing you to detach the canister for portable cleaning. The AX952 APEX is marketed as Shark’s “most advanced upright vacuum,” emphasizing its powerful suction and innovative features. The NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away is known for its versatility and maneuverability.

These vacuums appeal to homeowners seeking a versatile cleaning solution that can handle various floor types and above-floor cleaning tasks. Both models are bagless, feature HEPA filtration, and come with multiple attachments for different cleaning needs. However, they differ in key areas such as cleaning technology, weight, and specific features, making one a better choice depending on your priorities. This comparison will provide a comprehensive analysis of their strengths and weaknesses to help you decide which Shark vacuum is the right fit for your home.

Quick Verdict

• For superior multi-surface cleaning: The Shark AX952 APEX wins with its DuoClean technology and more powerful suction.
• For lightweight maneuverability: The Shark NV680 is the better choice due to its lighter weight and easier handling.
• For pet owners: Both vacuums are suitable, but the Shark AX952 APEX may have a slight edge with its enhanced suction and pet-specific attachments on some models.
• For budget-conscious shoppers: The Shark NV680 typically comes at a lower price point.

Short Review of Shark AX952 APEX

The Shark AX952 APEX DuoClean Powered Lift-Away is a full-sized, bagless upright vacuum designed for powerful and versatile cleaning. A standout feature is its DuoClean technology, which combines a bristle brush and a soft roller to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors. It also boasts a HEPA filter and a complete seal system to trap dust and allergens. The Powered Lift-Away feature allows the canister to detach, making it easier to clean stairs, furniture, and other above-floor areas.

The AX952 is often praised for its strong suction, effective pet hair removal, and the convenience of its multiple attachments. It is equipped with noise reduction technology and Active-Glide Technology for enhanced maneuverability. However, some users find it heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver, especially for extended periods. Despite its weight, the AX952 remains a popular choice for those prioritizing deep cleaning and advanced features.

Short Review of Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away

The Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away Speed is a versatile and lightweight upright vacuum designed for easy maneuverability and effective cleaning. Its Powered Lift-Away feature allows the canister to detach, making it simple to clean stairs, furniture, and other hard-to-reach areas. The NV680 is equipped with dynamic swivel steering, providing excellent control around furniture and obstacles. It also features LED lights on the nozzle and handle, illuminating dark corners and under furniture.

Users appreciate the NV680 for its powerful suction, lightweight design, and ease of use. It effectively cleans both carpets and hard floors and comes with multiple attachments for various cleaning tasks. While it may not have all the advanced features of the AX952 APEX, the NV680 offers a balanced combination of performance, convenience, and affordability. Its lighter weight makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize maneuverability and ease of use.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Cleaning Technology: The AX952 features DuoClean technology (dual brushrolls), while the NV680 has a standard bristle brushroll.
• Weight: The NV680 is significantly lighter than the AX952.
• Suction Power: The AX952 generally offers more powerful suction than the NV680.
• Noise Reduction: The AX952 includes noise reduction technology, which is absent in the NV680.
• Price: The NV680 is typically more affordable than the AX952.
• Attachments: While both come with attachments, specific attachments may vary between models.

Specifications Comparison

Price Comparison

The Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away is generally priced lower than the Shark AX952 APEX. The AX952 APEX, with its advanced features like DuoClean and noise reduction, commands a higher price point. However, pricing can vary depending on the retailer, promotions, and whether the models are new or refurbished.

Value Proposition:

• Shark AX952 APEX: Offers a higher cost-to-feature ratio for users who prioritize advanced cleaning technology, stronger suction, and noise reduction, and are willing to pay more.
• Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away: Provides a better value for budget-conscious shoppers who need a versatile, lightweight vacuum with reliable performance.

Design and Build Quality

• Shark AX952 APEX: The AX952 has a robust build quality, designed to withstand regular use. Its design includes a wider cleaning head and additional features like LED lights on both the nozzle and wand. While durable, its heavier weight can affect ergonomics.
• Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away: The NV680 features a lighter and more compact design, making it easier to maneuver around furniture and carry up stairs. Its build quality is still reliable, though it may not feel as substantial as the AX952. The swivel steering enhances its usability in tight spaces.

Performance Face-Off

Cleaning Performance on Hard Floors

The Shark AX952 APEX excels on hard floors due to its DuoClean technology, which uses a soft roller to gently pick up fine dust and large debris without scattering. The Shark NV680 performs well but may require more passes to capture all debris.

Cleaning Performance on Carpets

Both vacuums perform admirably on carpets, but the Shark AX952 APEX has a slight edge due to its more powerful suction and the bristle brush working in tandem with the soft roller. The AX952 can dig deeper into carpet fibers, removing embedded dirt and pet hair more effectively. The NV680 is still a strong performer, particularly on low-pile carpets.

Pet Hair Removal

Both vacuums are suitable for pet owners. The Shark AX952 APEX, with its stronger suction, can handle more stubborn pet hair and dander. The NV680 also performs well and includes a pet power brush attachment on some models, making it a viable option for homes with pets.

Edge Cleaning

The Shark AX952 APEX, with its wider cleaning head and strong suction, offers excellent edge cleaning capabilities. The NV680 also performs well along edges, thanks to its design and powerful suction.

Above-Floor Cleaning

Both models feature the Powered Lift-Away function, making them easy to convert into portable cleaners for stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor surfaces. The lighter weight of the Shark NV680 may make it slightly easier to handle in these situations.

Special Features Comparison

• Shark AX952 APEX:
  • DuoClean Technology: Combines a bristle brush and soft roller for superior multi-surface cleaning.
  • Noise Reduction Technology: Reduces the vacuum’s operational noise.
  • Active-Glide Technology: Upgraded swivel for enhanced maneuverability.
• Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away:
  • Powered Lift-Away: Detachable canister for portable cleaning.
  • Dynamic Swivel Steering: Excellent control around furniture.
  • LED Lights: Illuminates dark corners for better visibility.

Usability and User Experience

• Shark AX952 APEX: While packed with features, its heavier weight can make it less user-friendly for some. The controls are straightforward, but maneuvering the vacuum may require more effort.
• Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away: Its lightweight design and dynamic swivel steering make it exceptionally easy to use. Switching between floor types and using the Lift-Away feature is simple and intuitive.

Maintenance and Longevity

• Shark AX952 APEX: Requires regular cleaning of the brushrolls and filters. The 7-year limited warranty provides peace of mind regarding its longevity.
• Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away: Similar maintenance requirements, with a 5-year limited warranty.

Who Should Buy Shark AX952 APEX?

The Shark AX952 APEX is the better choice for:

• Homeowners with a mix of carpets and hard floors who want a single vacuum to handle all surfaces effectively.
• Users who prioritize powerful suction and deep cleaning capabilities.
• Individuals who don’t mind a heavier vacuum in exchange for advanced features and superior performance.

Who Should Buy Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away?

The Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away is ideal for:

• Those seeking a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum for easy cleaning.
• Budget-conscious shoppers who want a versatile and reliable vacuum at a lower price point.
• Users who need a portable cleaner for stairs and above-floor surfaces.

Final Recommendation

Both the Shark AX952 APEX and the Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away are excellent vacuums that offer versatile cleaning solutions. The Shark AX952 APEX is the superior choice for those who prioritize powerful suction, advanced cleaning technology, and don’t mind a heavier machine. Its DuoClean technology and enhanced features make it ideal for homes with a mix of carpets and hard floors. However, the Shark NV680 Rotator Powered Lift-Away is a fantastic option for those seeking a lightweight, maneuverable, and budget-friendly vacuum. Its ease of use and reliable performance make it a great choice for everyday cleaning tasks.