The Shark ION Robot Vacuum Cleaning System S87 aims to provide a comprehensive cleaning solution by combining a robot vacuum for floors with a handheld vacuum for above-floor surfaces. This 2-in-1 system targets users who want automated floor cleaning alongside the flexibility of a handheld for spot cleaning and hard-to-reach areas. While it offers strong suction and smart features, its higher price point and basic navigation raise questions about its overall value compared to competitors.
The S87 attempts to cover all bases by including both a robot and a handheld vacuum. It promises to tackle everything from everyday floor debris to quick cleanups on furniture and in cars. But does this dual approach deliver a truly superior cleaning experience, or does it fall short of expectations set by more focused or similarly priced alternatives? Let’s delve into the details to see where the S87 shines and where it struggles to compete.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Versatile Cleaning System: Combines a robot vacuum for floors and a handheld vacuum for above-floor cleaning.
- Strong Suction: Both vacuums offer impressive suction power for effective cleaning.
- Smart Features: App control and voice assistant compatibility add convenience.
- Navigation Limitations: Lacks advanced mapping, relying on basic obstacle avoidance.
- Pricey for its Class: Faces stiff competition from more affordable or feature-rich alternatives.
Verdict: The Shark ION Robot Vacuum S87 offers a convenient 2-in-1 cleaning solution but may not be the best value due to its price and navigation limitations.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | RV851WV |
| Robot Weight | 5.4 lbs |
| Handheld Weight | 1.4 lbs |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.66 quarts |
| Cleaning Path Width | 5.9 inches |
| Robot Height | 3.5 inches |
| Robot Diameter | 12.6 inches |
| Battery Type | Lithium Ion |
| Battery Capacity | 2550 mAh |
| Charging Time | 3 hours |
| Robot Runtime | 60 minutes (claimed), up to 113 minutes (tested) |
| Voltage | 14.4 volts |
| Noise Level | 61-62 dB |
| Filter Type | Non-washable |
| App Enabled | Yes |
| Voice Control | Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant |
| Cliff Sensors | Yes |
| Side Brushes | 2 |
| Dimensions | 12.8″ L x 12.6″ W x 3.5″ H |
Price and Availability
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum Cleaning System S87 was originally priced around $499. However, given its age, it may be difficult to find at major retailers. You might find it through online marketplaces like Amazon or eBay, but pricing and availability will vary. Keep an eye out for deals or bundled offers, as purchasing the robot and handheld separately might be more expensive.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum S87 features a fairly standard circular design, typical of most robot vacuums. Its low profile (3.5 inches tall) allows it to navigate under furniture with ease. The build quality feels solid, and the materials seem durable enough to withstand regular use.
The included handheld vacuum is lightweight (1.4 pounds) and ergonomically designed for comfortable handling. It comes with several attachments, including a crevice tool, a soft brush for dusting, and a pet brush for cleaning pet hair. The all-in-one charging dock conveniently houses both the robot and handheld, saving space and keeping everything organized.
One design aspect that has received mixed reviews is the single-pronged side brushes on the robot vacuum. Some users feel that the three-pronged brushes found on competitors like Roomba are sturdier and more effective at sweeping debris into the vacuum’s path.
Performance and Features
Robot Vacuum Performance
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum S87 boasts strong suction, effectively picking up hair, dust, and debris from both hardwood floors and carpets. Its self-cleaning brush roll helps prevent hair from getting tangled, reducing maintenance. The robot performs well on hard floors, easily tackling cat litter and larger items like cereal. However, it may struggle with finer particles like sand, leaving some residue behind even after multiple passes.
The robot’s navigation relies on “Smart Sensor Navigation 2.0,” which uses proximity sensors to avoid obstacles. While it generally avoids bumping into furniture, its cleaning pattern can be somewhat random, and it may require multiple passes to cover an entire room effectively. It lacks the advanced mapping capabilities found in higher-end models, meaning it doesn’t create a visual map of your home for more efficient cleaning.
Handheld Vacuum Performance
The included Shark ION W1 handheld vacuum offers powerful suction for its size, making it ideal for spot cleaning and tidying up messes on furniture, countertops, and in cars. Its lightweight design and attachments make it easy to clean hard-to-reach areas. The one-touch bin emptying mechanism is convenient and hygienic, and the inner brushes glide over the filter each time the dust cup opens, helping to keep it clean.
Smart Features
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum S87 connects to your home Wi-Fi network and can be controlled via the Shark ION Robot app. The app allows you to start or schedule cleanings, select cleaning modes (Quiet, Normal, Max), and monitor battery life. The robot is also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, allowing for voice control. Setting up voice control is relatively simple, requiring you to download the Shark ION Robot app and link your accounts.
Battery Life
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum S87 has a claimed runtime of 60 minutes, but tests have shown it can last up to 113 minutes on a single charge. This is generally sufficient to clean an average-sized apartment or home. The robot takes approximately 3 hours to fully charge.
The handheld vacuum’s battery life is shorter, with some reviewers noting that it lasts long enough to vacuum a mini-van and do a few minutes of dusting. While the suction is strong, the limited battery life may be a drawback for larger cleaning tasks.
Software and User Experience
The Shark ION Robot app is user-friendly and straightforward. It allows you to easily schedule cleanings, select cleaning modes, and monitor the robot’s status. The app also includes a “Dock” button that tells the robot to return to its charging base. Connecting the vacuum to Wi-Fi is a simple process.
While the app provides basic control over the robot vacuum, it lacks advanced features such as room mapping or zone cleaning. The absence of these features may be a drawback for users who want more precise control over the cleaning process.
Comparison to Competitors
- Ecovacs Deebot N79S: A more affordable option with similar features, including app control and voice assistant compatibility. The Deebot N79S also offers steering controls via the app.
- iRobot Roomba 690: Another budget-friendly robot vacuum with a strong reputation. The Roomba 690 offers virtual wall barriers to restrict cleaning to specific areas.
- Roomba 960/i7: While more expensive, these Roomba models offer advanced mapping capabilities for more efficient and thorough cleaning. They also have stronger AI.
The Shark ION S87 differentiates itself with the inclusion of the handheld vacuum, providing added versatility. However, its higher price point and lack of advanced navigation make it a less compelling option compared to some of its competitors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes a handheld vacuum for versatile cleaning.
- Strong suction on both robot and handheld vacuums.
- App control and voice assistant compatibility.
- Large dustbin.
- Self-cleaning brush roll.
Cons:
- Relatively expensive.
- Basic navigation, lacks room mapping.
- Handheld vacuum has limited battery life.
- Single-pronged side brushes may be less effective.
Value for Money
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum S87 presents a mixed bag in terms of value for money. While the inclusion of a handheld vacuum adds versatility, its higher price point compared to competitors with similar or better features makes it a less compelling option for budget-conscious buyers.
Who should buy this product:
- Users who want a 2-in-1 cleaning system with a robot vacuum and a handheld vacuum.
- Those who need strong suction for pet hair and debris.
- Individuals who value app control and voice assistant compatibility.
Who should look elsewhere:
- Buyers on a tight budget.
- Those who want advanced navigation features like room mapping.
- Users who need long battery life for large cleaning tasks.
Verdict
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum Cleaning System S87 offers a convenient and versatile cleaning solution with its combination of a robot vacuum and a handheld vacuum. Its strong suction and smart features are appealing, but its higher price point and basic navigation hold it back from being a top contender in the robot vacuum market. While it’s a solid performer, there are other options that provide better value for money, especially for those seeking advanced features or budget-friendly alternatives.
