The Shark Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner HZ500UK aims to deliver the performance of a full-sized vacuum in a lightweight and versatile stick format. Designed for homes with both hard floors and carpets, this model boasts Shark’s signature DuoClean technology and a range of attachments to tackle various cleaning tasks. It stands out in the crowded stick vacuum market with its corded power, promising consistent suction without the limitations of battery life. Is the Shark HZ500UK the right cleaning companion for your home? Let’s delve into the details.
The HZ500UK is positioned as a mid-range option, offering a compelling blend of power, convenience, and specialized features. It seeks to bridge the gap between budget-friendly stick vacuums that often compromise on performance and premium cordless models that come with a hefty price tag. With its corded design and emphasis on deep cleaning capabilities, the HZ500UK targets users who prioritize consistent power and thoroughness over absolute freedom of movement.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Powerful Cleaning: DuoClean technology excels on both hard floors and carpets.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: Easy to carry and navigate around furniture.
- Anti-Hair Wrap Technology: Effectively prevents hair from tangling in the brush roll.
- Corded Convenience: Provides consistent power without battery life concerns.
- Limited Reach: The cord can restrict movement in larger spaces.
- Verdict: 8.2/10
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | HZ500UK |
| Type | Corded Stick Vacuum |
| Weight | 4 kg |
| Power | 450W |
| Cord Length | 8 meters |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.4 Liters |
| Floor Types | Hard Floor, Carpet |
| Technology | DuoClean, Anti-Hair Wrap |
| Attachments | Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool |
| Dimensions | 26 x 16 x 118 cm |
| Filtration | HEPA Filter |
| Operating Radius | 8 meters + wand/hose length |
Price and Availability
The Shark HZ500UK is widely available at major retailers such as Currys PC World, Argos, and directly from the Shark website. Typical pricing ranges from £179.99 to £229.99, but it’s worth checking for promotional deals and discounts, especially during seasonal sales events. Bundles including extra attachments or extended warranties may also be available.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark HZ500UK sports a sleek and functional design. At 4kg, it’s relatively lightweight for a corded vacuum, making it easy to carry up stairs and maneuver around the home. The build quality feels solid, with durable plastic components that should withstand regular use. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the controls are intuitively placed.
Compared to previous Shark stick vacuum models, the HZ500UK features a refined design with improved ergonomics. The detachable wand allows for easy above-floor cleaning, and the LED headlights on the floorhead are a welcome addition for illuminating dark corners and under furniture. While it lacks the premium materials found in some higher-end vacuums, the HZ500UK strikes a good balance between durability and affordability.
Performance and Features
The Shark HZ500UK’s performance is where it truly shines. Thanks to its corded power supply, it delivers consistent suction that rivals many full-sized vacuums. The DuoClean floorhead is particularly effective, combining a soft brushroll for lifting fine dust and debris from hard floors with a bristle brushroll for agitating and removing dirt from carpets.
DuoClean Technology
The DuoClean technology is a standout feature. On hard floors, the soft brushroll gently polishes the surface while effectively capturing dust and small particles. On carpets, the bristle brushroll digs deep into the fibers to extract embedded dirt and pet hair. This dual-action approach eliminates the need to switch floorheads when moving between different surfaces, saving time and effort.
In testing, the HZ500UK excelled at picking up a variety of debris, including flour, sugar, and pet hair, from both hard floors and carpets. The suction remained strong even when the dust cup was partially full.
Anti-Hair Wrap Technology
Hair tangling in the brushroll is a common frustration with vacuum cleaners. Shark’s Anti-Hair Wrap technology addresses this issue by actively separating and removing hair from the brushroll as you clean. This feature proved highly effective in our tests, with minimal hair accumulating on the brushroll even after vacuuming areas with significant pet hair.
Maneuverability
The HZ500UK is easy to maneuver thanks to its lightweight design and swivel steering. It effortlessly glides across floors and around furniture, allowing you to clean quickly and efficiently. The low-profile floorhead also makes it easy to reach under sofas and beds.
Attachments
The HZ500UK comes with a crevice tool and an upholstery tool, which are useful for cleaning edges, corners, and furniture. While the attachment selection is somewhat limited compared to some other vacuums, the included tools are well-designed and effective for their intended purposes.
Battery Life (Not Applicable)
As a corded vacuum, the Shark HZ500UK does not have a battery. This eliminates the need to worry about battery life or charging times, providing continuous cleaning power for as long as you need it.
Software and User Experience (Not Applicable)
The Shark HZ500UK does not rely on software or apps. The user experience is straightforward and intuitive, with simple controls and easy-to-empty dust cup.
Comparison to Competitors
Dyson V8 Absolute
The Dyson V8 Absolute is a cordless stick vacuum that offers similar versatility to the Shark HZ500UK. While the Dyson provides greater freedom of movement thanks to its cordless design, it comes at a higher price point and has a limited battery life. The Shark HZ500UK offers comparable cleaning power at a lower cost, making it a compelling option for those who don’t mind the cord.
Vax Blade 4
The Vax Blade 4 is another cordless stick vacuum that competes with the Shark HZ500UK. The Vax offers good cleaning performance and a decent battery life, but it lacks the DuoClean technology found in the Shark, which gives the HZ500UK an edge on hard floors. The Shark also feels more robust and well-built than the Vax.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful and consistent suction
- Effective DuoClean technology for all floor types
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Anti-Hair Wrap technology works well
- No battery life concerns
Cons:
- Cord can be restrictive
- Smaller dust cup capacity
- Limited attachment selection
Value for Money
The Shark HZ500UK offers excellent value for money. It delivers the performance of a more expensive vacuum at a more affordable price point. Its consistent suction, versatile cleaning capabilities, and Anti-Hair Wrap technology make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking for a reliable and effective stick vacuum.
This vacuum is an excellent choice for:
- Homeowners with a mix of hard floors and carpets
- Pet owners struggling with pet hair
- Those who prefer consistent power over cordless convenience
- Users who want a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum
However, those who need:
- Unrestricted movement in larger homes
- A larger dust cup capacity for less frequent emptying
- A wider range of attachments for specialized cleaning tasks
might want to explore other options.
Verdict
The Shark Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner HZ500UK is a powerful and versatile cleaning tool that offers excellent value for money. Its DuoClean technology excels on both hard floors and carpets, and its Anti-Hair Wrap feature effectively prevents hair tangling. While the cord may be a limitation for some, the consistent suction and lightweight design make it a top contender in the stick vacuum market.
Score: 8.2/10
