The Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner WV251UKDB enters a market saturated with portable cleaning solutions, promising to deliver Shark’s renowned cleaning power in a compact, cordless package. Designed for quick clean-ups and tackling messes in hard-to-reach places, this handheld vacuum aims to be an indispensable tool for busy households and car owners alike. Boasting a lightweight design and a range of attachments, the WV251UKDB positions itself as a versatile solution for crumbs, pet hair, and dust. It’s a direct competitor to brands like Dyson and Black+Decker, vying for a spot as the go-to handheld for those seeking convenience without sacrificing performance.
This Shark handheld vacuum cleaner sets out to offer more than just portability; it aims to provide a practical and efficient cleaning experience. With features such as a high-speed motor, multi-surface cleaning capabilities, and a crevice tool for tight spots, Shark intends to deliver a product that simplifies everyday cleaning tasks. In this review, we’ll delve into whether the WV251UKDB lives up to its promises, examining its design, performance, battery life, and overall value to help you decide if it’s the right handheld vacuum for your needs.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Powerful Suction: Delivers impressive suction power for a handheld, effectively picking up dirt, crumbs, and pet hair.
- Lightweight and Compact: Easy to maneuver and store, making it ideal for quick clean-ups and tight spaces.
- Versatile Attachments: Includes multiple attachments for various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas, enhancing its utility.
- Short Battery Life: Battery life is a limiting factor, especially when using the more power-intensive modes.
- Verdict: A solid handheld vacuum with strong suction and versatile attachments, but the short battery life may require frequent charging. 7.8/10
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | WV251UKDB |
| Type | Cordless Handheld Vacuum |
| Weight | 0.6 kg (1.3 lbs) |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.25 liters |
| Battery Type | Lithium-ion |
| Run Time | Up to 10 minutes |
| Charge Time | 2.5 hours |
| Dimensions | 40 cm x 9 cm x 10 cm (15.7 in x 3.5 in x 3.9 in) |
| Filtration | HEPA filter |
| Attachments | Crevice Tool, Multi-Surface Tool, Pet Hair Tool |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Voltage | 10.8V |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Motor Power | 120W |
Price and Availability
The Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner WV251UKDB is widely available at major retailers such as Currys PC World, Argos, and directly from the Shark official website. Pricing typically ranges from £99.99 to £129.99, but it’s common to find promotional deals and discounts, especially during seasonal sales events. Bundles that include additional attachments or extended warranties are also occasionally offered, providing added value for consumers looking to maximize their investment. Checking multiple retailers and comparing prices can ensure you get the best deal on this versatile cleaning tool.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark WV251UKDB boasts a sleek and modern design, prioritizing both aesthetics and functionality. Its lightweight construction, at just 0.6 kg, makes it incredibly easy to handle and maneuver, reducing strain during extended cleaning sessions. The ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip, enhancing control and precision. The materials used are primarily durable plastics that feel robust enough to withstand regular use, though they may not match the premium feel of higher-end competitors like Dyson.
Compared to previous Shark models, the WV251UKDB features a more refined and streamlined design, with improved dust cup accessibility for easier emptying. The attachments are straightforward to connect and disconnect, adding to the overall user-friendly experience. While the build quality is generally solid, some users might find the plastic components slightly less premium than those found in more expensive models, but this is a trade-off that helps keep the vacuum lightweight and affordable. Overall, the design effectively balances form and function, making it a practical and attractive addition to any cleaning arsenal.
Performance and Features
The Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner WV251UKDB excels in delivering powerful suction for a variety of cleaning tasks. Its high-speed motor efficiently tackles dirt, crumbs, and pet hair on multiple surfaces, making it a versatile tool for both home and car use. In controlled tests, the WV251UKDB demonstrated impressive pickup rates on hard floors and carpets, rivaling some larger, more cumbersome vacuum models.
Suction Power
The WV251UKDB’s suction power is particularly noteworthy. It effectively lifts embedded dirt from carpets and rugs, and effortlessly clears kitchen counters of crumbs and spills. While it may struggle with larger debris on occasion, its overall performance in everyday cleaning scenarios is commendable. The vacuum maintains consistent suction even as the dust cup fills, ensuring reliable cleaning from start to finish.
Attachments
The included attachments significantly enhance the vacuum’s utility. The crevice tool is perfect for reaching tight spots and edges, such as along baseboards or between car seats. The multi-surface tool effectively cleans upholstery and delicate surfaces, while the pet hair tool efficiently removes stubborn pet hair from furniture and carpets. Each attachment is easy to swap, allowing for quick transitions between different cleaning tasks.
Real-World Usage
In real-world scenarios, the WV251UKDB proves to be a convenient and effective cleaning solution. It’s ideal for quick clean-ups after meals, tackling pet messes, and maintaining the interior of your car. The lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces, and the powerful suction ensures thorough cleaning. While it may not replace a full-sized vacuum for deep cleaning, it’s an excellent tool for maintaining a tidy home on a daily basis.
Battery Life
The battery life of the Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner WV251UKDB is one of its weaker points. On a full charge, the vacuum provides up to 10 minutes of runtime, which is sufficient for small, quick clean-ups but may be limiting for larger tasks. During testing, the battery life decreased noticeably when using the more power-intensive attachments or when tackling heavily soiled areas.
Charging the WV251UKDB takes approximately 2.5 hours, which can be inconvenient if you need to use the vacuum frequently. The lack of a battery indicator also means you need to keep track of usage to avoid unexpected power loss. While the battery performance is adequate for spot cleaning, it falls short compared to some competitors that offer longer runtimes and faster charging capabilities. Users who anticipate needing extended cleaning sessions may want to consider alternative models with better battery performance.
Software and User Experience
As a handheld vacuum, the Shark WV251UKDB doesn’t incorporate complex software or app integration. Its user experience is straightforward and intuitive, focusing on ease of use and practicality. The vacuum features a simple on/off switch, and the attachments are easy to connect and disconnect. Emptying the dust cup is also a hassle-free process, with a quick-release mechanism that minimizes mess.
The design of the WV251UKDB prioritizes simplicity, making it accessible for users of all ages and technical abilities. The absence of advanced features or complicated controls ensures that anyone can pick it up and start cleaning immediately. While some users may miss the convenience of smart features or digital displays found in higher-end models, the WV251UKDB’s focus on basic functionality makes it a user-friendly and reliable cleaning tool.
Comparison to Competitors
When compared to competitors like the Dyson V7 Trigger and the Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean+, the Shark WV251UKDB holds its own in several areas but also faces some challenges.
Dyson V7 Trigger
The Dyson V7 Trigger offers superior suction power and a longer battery life, making it better suited for more demanding cleaning tasks. However, it comes at a higher price point and is slightly heavier, which may affect maneuverability for some users. The Shark WV251UKDB, on the other hand, is more affordable and lightweight, making it a more convenient option for quick clean-ups and smaller messes.
Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean+
The Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean+ is another strong competitor, offering a balance of performance and affordability. It boasts a longer runtime than the Shark WV251UKDB and includes a few extra attachments. However, the Shark’s suction power is generally considered to be stronger, and its more compact design makes it easier to store and handle.
In summary, the Shark WV251UKDB stands out for its combination of powerful suction, lightweight design, and versatile attachments. While it may not match the battery life or premium features of some competitors, its affordability and ease of use make it a compelling option for those seeking a reliable handheld vacuum for everyday cleaning tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Strong suction power
- Lightweight and compact design
- Versatile attachments included
- Easy to empty dust cup
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Short battery life
- Long charging time
- Plastic build may feel less premium
- No battery indicator
Value for Money
The Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner WV251UKDB offers excellent value for money, providing a compelling combination of performance, convenience, and affordability. Its powerful suction and versatile attachments make it a highly effective tool for quick clean-ups, tackling pet messes, and maintaining a tidy car interior. While its battery life is a limiting factor, the overall performance and user-friendly design justify the investment for those seeking a reliable handheld vacuum without breaking the bank.
For users who prioritize affordability and ease of use, the WV251UKDB is an ideal choice. It delivers strong cleaning performance at a reasonable price, making it a smart investment for busy households and pet owners. However, if you require longer runtime or premium features, you may want to consider higher-end models like the Dyson V7 Trigger, which offer superior performance at a higher cost. Overall, the Shark WV251UKDB strikes a good balance between price and performance, making it a worthwhile addition to any cleaning arsenal.
Verdict
The Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner WV251UKDB is a solid choice for those seeking a lightweight, powerful, and versatile cleaning tool for quick clean-ups. Its strong suction and useful attachments make it effective at tackling dirt, crumbs, and pet hair on various surfaces. While its short battery life and plastic build quality are drawbacks, its affordability and ease of use make it a compelling option for everyday cleaning tasks.
Score: 7.8/10
We recommend the Shark WV251UKDB for those who need a convenient and effective handheld vacuum for maintaining a tidy home and car. However, users who require longer runtime or more premium features may want to explore alternative models.
