Shark LV900 vs LV901: Which Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleans Up Best?

The Shark LV900 and LV901 are both cordless handheld vacuums designed for quick cleanups, especially for pet owners. These models offer convenience and portability, making them suitable for tackling messes in homes, cars, and RVs. They compete in a market filled with various handheld vacuums, each promising superior suction and ease of use. Potential buyers often find themselves comparing these two Shark models, as they share many similarities but also have key differences that can influence the decision-making process.

For consumers seeking a lightweight and versatile cleaning solution, the Shark LV900 and LV901 are attractive options. Both vacuums are designed to efficiently remove pet hair, dust, and debris from various surfaces. Understanding their specific features, performance metrics, and value propositions is essential for making an informed choice. This comparison dives deep into the nuances of each model, providing a data-driven analysis to help you determine which Shark cordless handheld vacuum best fits your needs.

Quick Verdict

• For pet owners needing superior hair removal: The Shark LV901 is the slightly better choice due to its XL motorized pet brush, which is designed for embedded messes.
• For users prioritizing affordability: The Shark LV900 may be more appealing if the price difference is significant, as it offers similar core functionality.
• For those seeking the latest model: The Shark LV901 is the newer model and may incorporate minor improvements or design tweaks.

Short Review of Shark LV900

The Shark LV900 Cordless Pet Perfect XL is a lightweight and portable handheld vacuum designed for versatile cleaning. It excels at picking up pet hair, dust, and debris from various surfaces, making it a great tool for quick cleanups around the home, car, or RV. Its cordless design provides freedom of movement, allowing users to reach tight spaces and tackle messes without being tethered to an outlet.

This model features Twister suction technology, which maintains strong suction power for effective cleaning. It comes with a crevice tool for hard-to-reach areas and a motorized brush for embedded messes. The LV900’s ease of use and portability make it a convenient option for anyone needing a reliable handheld vacuum for everyday messes.

Short Review of Shark LV901

The Shark LV901 Cordless Pet Perfect XL is a cordless handheld vacuum designed to tackle pet hair and other messes with ease. It features an XL motorized pet brush, which effectively removes embedded dirt and hair from upholstery, carpets, and other surfaces. Its lightweight and portable design make it easy to carry around the house or take on the go for cleaning cars or RVs.

Equipped with Twister suction technology, the LV901 maintains consistent suction power for thorough cleaning. It also includes a crevice tool for reaching tight spaces and a direct suction option for easy cleaning on any surface. Overall, the Shark LV901 is a versatile and convenient cleaning tool for pet owners and anyone needing a powerful handheld vacuum.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Brushroll: The LV901 comes with an XL motorized pet brush to remove embedded dirt and hair, while the LV900 has a motorized brush.
• Model Iteration: The LV901 is the newer model.
• Accessories: Both include a crevice tool, but the LV901 may have additional accessories or slight variations.
• Availability: The LV900 might be more readily available refurbished or at a lower price point due to its age.
• Color/Design: Minor cosmetic differences may exist.

Specifications Comparison

Price Comparison

The Shark LV900 and LV901 are typically priced in the lower-mid range for cordless handheld vacuums. Prices may vary depending on the retailer, promotions, and whether the unit is new, refurbished, or open-box. Generally, the LV900 might be found at a slightly lower price due to being an older model, especially in refurbished condition. To determine the better value, consider the price difference in relation to the added benefits of the XL motorized pet brush in the LV901. If the price difference is minimal, the LV901 offers a better cost-to-feature ratio for pet owners.

Design and Build Quality

Both the Shark LV900 and LV901 share a similar design, emphasizing portability and ease of use. They are constructed with lightweight materials, making them easy to carry and maneuver. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip during operation. The build quality is generally robust, with durable plastic components that can withstand regular use. Both models feature a bagless design with an easy-to-empty dust cup. While both models are similar, the LV901 might have slight design tweaks or color variations compared to the LV900.

Performance Face-Off

Suction Power

Both the LV900 and LV901 utilize Shark’s Twister suction technology, which provides strong and consistent suction. Real-world tests show that both models effectively pick up pet hair, dust, and crumbs from various surfaces.

Pet Hair Removal

The key difference lies in the brushroll. The LV901 features an XL motorized pet brush designed for superior pet hair removal, especially embedded hair. The LV900, while still effective, may require more passes to achieve the same level of cleanliness on heavily soiled surfaces.

Bare Floor Cleaning

Both models perform well on bare floors, effectively picking up dust and debris without scattering. The suction is strong enough to capture particles from crevices and edges.

Upholstery Cleaning

Both vacuums are suitable for cleaning upholstery. The motorized brush helps to agitate and lift dirt and hair from fabric surfaces, making them ideal for couches, chairs, and car interiors.

Special Features Comparison

• Shark LV900: Features a standard motorized brush and crevice tool, suitable for general cleaning tasks.
• Shark LV901: Includes an XL motorized pet brush, designed specifically for enhanced pet hair removal performance.

The XL motorized pet brush on the LV901 is its standout feature, providing a significant advantage for pet owners dealing with embedded hair and stubborn messes.

Usability and User Experience

Both the Shark LV900 and LV901 are designed for ease of use. The cordless design allows for unrestricted movement, and the lightweight construction reduces fatigue during extended use. Emptying the dust cup is straightforward, and the washable filters simplify maintenance. Both models are suitable for novice and experienced users alike.

Maintenance and Longevity

Both models require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes emptying the dust cup after each use and cleaning the filters regularly. Replacement filters are readily available. The lifespan of both vacuums depends on usage and maintenance, but with proper care, they should provide several years of reliable service.

Who Should Buy the Shark LV900?

The Shark LV900 is ideal for:

• Users who need a basic, reliable handheld vacuum for quick cleanups.
• Individuals who don’t have pets or have minimal pet hair concerns.
• Budget-conscious buyers looking for an affordable option.

Who Should Buy the Shark LV901?

The Shark LV901 is ideal for:

• Pet owners who need a powerful handheld vacuum to tackle pet hair on various surfaces.
• Users who want the enhanced cleaning performance of an XL motorized pet brush.
• Individuals willing to invest slightly more for superior pet hair removal capabilities.

Final Recommendation

Both the Shark LV900 and LV901 are excellent cordless handheld vacuums. The Shark LV901 is the better choice for pet owners seeking superior hair removal, thanks to its XL motorized pet brush. However, if pet hair is not a major concern or if budget is a primary factor, the Shark LV900 remains a capable and cost-effective option.