Shark ION RV750 vs RV761: Which Robot Vacuum Is Right For You?

Robot vacuums have become increasingly popular for their convenience in maintaining clean floors with minimal effort. Among the various brands and models available, the Shark ION series stands out as a budget-friendly option for many homeowners. The Shark ION RV750 and RV761 are two popular models within this series, offering similar features and capabilities. Deciding between these two can be tricky, as they share many similarities, but understanding their subtle differences is essential to making an informed purchase.

Both the Shark ION RV750 and RV761 are designed to provide everyday upkeep for your floors, tackling dust, dirt, and pet hair with ease. They both boast Wi-Fi connectivity, smart sensor navigation, and voice control compatibility with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. These features make them attractive options for busy individuals or those who prefer a hands-off approach to cleaning. Whether you’re a first-time robot vacuum buyer or looking to upgrade from an older model, this comparison will help you determine which Shark ION robot vacuum better suits your needs and lifestyle.

Quick Verdict

• For budget-conscious buyers: The Shark ION RV750 is generally the more affordable option.
• For smart home integration: Both offer similar smart features, but confirm compatibility with your existing ecosystem.
• For the best overall value: The Shark ION RV761 offers slightly improved features and performance for a modest price increase.

Short Review of the Shark ION RV750

The Shark ION RV750 is a Wi-Fi-connected robot vacuum designed for everyday cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. It features a Tri-Brush System, which combines side brushes, channel brushes, and a multi-surface brushroll to effectively capture debris from edges, corners, and various floor types. The RV750’s smart sensor navigation allows it to seamlessly navigate your home, avoiding obstacles and stairs.

This model is particularly appealing due to its ease of use and smart features. You can control the RV750 via the SharkClean app, allowing you to start, stop, and schedule cleaning sessions from anywhere. Additionally, it’s compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, enabling voice control for added convenience. Its low profile design allows it to easily clean under furniture, reaching areas that are typically difficult to access with a traditional vacuum.

Short Review of the Shark ION RV761

The Shark ION RV761 is also a Wi-Fi-enabled robot vacuum designed for multi-surface cleaning. It shares many features with the RV750, including the Tri-Brush System, smart sensor navigation, and compatibility with the SharkClean app and voice assistants like Alexa and Google Assistant. The RV761 is designed to seamlessly transition between carpets and hard floors, providing consistent cleaning performance throughout your home.

A key benefit of the RV761 is its ability to avoid getting stuck. Proximity sensors ensure careful cleaning to avoid collisions and stuck situations. Users appreciate its ease of setup, Wi-Fi connectivity, and the ability to control it via a smartphone app. While many find it effective for daily maintenance and picking up pet hair, some report challenges with navigation and returning to the dock.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Price: The RV750 is typically less expensive than the RV761.
• Cliff Sensors: Both have them. High-tech cliff sensors on the bottom to identify upcoming ledges & stairs to avoid falling.
• Runtime: Both have up to 90 minutes of runtime for multiple-room cleaning and a high coverage area.
• Navigation: Both use smart sensor navigation.
• App Control: Both have app control.
• Voice Control: Both models are compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant for voice control.

Specifications Comparison

Price Comparison

The Shark ION RV750 typically retails for a lower price than the RV761. The RV750 can be found for around $65-$159 new, while the RV761 generally sells for around $72-$175 new. Refurbished models may be available at even lower prices.

Value Proposition: Both models offer good value for their price point, providing Wi-Fi connectivity, app control, and voice assistant compatibility at a fraction of the cost of high-end robot vacuums. The RV750 is a more budget-friendly option, while the RV761 offers slightly improved features and performance for a modest price increase.

Cost-to-Feature Ratio: Considering the features and performance, both models offer a competitive cost-to-feature ratio. The RV750 is ideal for those seeking an affordable entry into the world of robot vacuums, while the RV761 is a worthwhile upgrade for those willing to spend a bit more for enhanced functionality.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Shark ION RV750 and RV761 share a similar circular design, typical of robot vacuums. They are constructed with durable plastic materials that can withstand everyday use. The RV750 has a lower profile, at 2.6 inches in height, allowing it to navigate under furniture with ease. The RV761 is slightly taller, at 3.5 inches, but still maintains a low profile suitable for most homes.

Aesthetics: Both models feature a sleek, modern design that blends well with most home decors. The RV750 comes in a black and gray color scheme, while the RV761 is available in black and navy blue.

Durability: Customer reviews suggest that both models are reasonably durable for their price range. However, some users have reported issues with the longevity of certain components, such as the battery and side brushes.

Ergonomics: As robot vacuums, neither model requires much manual handling. The dustbins are easy to remove and empty, and the controls are straightforward to use.

Performance Face-Off

Both the Shark ION RV750 and RV761 are designed to provide everyday upkeep for your floors, but there are some differences in their performance:

Cleaning Performance on Hard Floors

Both models perform well on hard floors, effectively picking up dust, dirt, and small debris. The Tri-Brush System ensures that debris is swept from edges and corners into the vacuum’s path.

Cleaning Performance on Carpets

The RV761 demonstrates slightly better carpet cleaning performance compared to the RV750. Its brushroll is more effective at agitating carpet fibers and lifting embedded dirt and pet hair.

Pet Hair Pickup

While both models can pick up pet hair, neither is exceptionally well-suited for homes with heavy shedding pets. Users have reported that pet hair can get tangled in the brushroll and side brushes, requiring manual removal.

Navigation

Both models use smart sensor navigation to avoid obstacles and stairs. However, some users have noted that the RV750 can sometimes get stuck under furniture or have difficulty finding its way back to the charging dock.

Special Features Comparison

• Shark ION RV750: Includes BotBoundary strips, which allow you to create virtual boundaries to prevent the robot from entering certain areas.
• Shark ION RV761: Features proximity sensors to avoid getting stuck and scuffing. Also includes extra accessories (two extra side brushes and an extra filter) for convenient maintenance.

Usability and User Experience

Both the Shark ION RV750 and RV761 are designed to be user-friendly, with simple controls and intuitive app interfaces.

Ease of Use: Setting up and operating both models is straightforward. The SharkClean app is easy to navigate, allowing you to schedule cleaning sessions, monitor the robot’s progress, and control it remotely.

Learning Curve: There is minimal learning curve associated with either model. The included documentation provides clear instructions, and the app offers helpful tips and troubleshooting advice.

Everyday Operation: Both models are suitable for everyday use, providing convenient and automated floor cleaning. However, it’s important to note that they may not completely replace a traditional vacuum, especially for deep cleaning or heavily soiled areas.

Maintenance and Longevity

Maintenance: Both models require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes emptying the dustbin, cleaning the brushroll and side brushes, and replacing the filter as needed.

Consumable Parts: The side brushes and filter are consumable parts that will need to be replaced periodically. Replacement parts are readily available online and in stores.

Warranty Coverage: The Shark ION RV750 comes with a 1-year limited warranty, while the RV761 only has a 6 month warranty.

Expected Lifespan: The expected lifespan of both models is similar, with most users reporting several years of reliable operation. However, factors such as usage frequency, maintenance practices, and environmental conditions can affect the lifespan.

Who Should Buy the Shark ION RV750?

The Shark ION RV750 is a good choice for:

• Budget-conscious buyers looking for an affordable robot vacuum.
• Individuals living in smaller homes or apartments with mainly hard floors.
• Those who want a simple, easy-to-use robot vacuum with basic smart features.

Who Should Buy the Shark ION RV761?

The Shark ION RV761 is a good choice for:

• Those willing to spend a bit more for slightly improved carpet cleaning performance.
• Individuals who appreciate the added convenience of proximity sensors to avoid getting stuck.
• Those who want extra accessories for convenient maintenance.

Final Recommendation

Both the Shark ION RV750 and RV761 are capable robot vacuums that offer good value for their price. The RV750 is the more affordable option, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers. The RV761, on the other hand, offers slightly improved features and performance, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those willing to spend a bit more. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.