I recently made a post in r/BuyItForLife that received a lot of responses about vacuum cleaner reviews.
My conclusion is that most review sites cannot review most products long-term and are optimized to generate affiliate revenue. Sharks seem to perform well out-of-the-box and sell well, so it makes sense why review sites recommend them.
But if there is one site that's most critical, honest, and trusted, it's Consumer Reports. CR is an 86-year-old non-profit dedicated to honesty and fairness to consumers. People consistently praise CR for their review quality. While sites like Wirecutter have gone downhill.
And still, CR recommends Shark, a brand not liked in this sub (also Dyson, which also is not popular here either).
So what gives?
Is CR missing something that r/VacuumCleaners gets? Does r/VacuumCleaners skew in a direction, and CR doesn't, and that's ok?
As a consumer, I think it's important to compare multiple sources. So I'd at least like to compare this sub with CR and maybe 2-3 other sources. I'm curious what folks here think.
Hi all
Apologies in advance for the long/detailed post.
I've been doing a heap of research, reading reviews, info from vacuum techs, comparison companies etc etc, and have narrowed it down to the following options, and have noted my thoughts/concerns underneath each: (I'm in Australia if that matters)
a) Dyson V15 Detect (Absolute)
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| * Powerful - 240 AW | * No stand (comes with wall dock, and extra tools can attach to the wand clip, but I was hoping for a stand like the Floor Dok with room for all tools, so might have to purchase that as an extra) |
| * Lightweight - 3.1kg | * Have to hold the trigger down |
b) Dyson Gen5 Detect (Complete)
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| * Most powerful - 280 AW | * Very heavy - 3.5kg |
| * Single power button | * Many reviews stating that the wheel on the head breaks off |
| * Tools built into inside of the handle | * No low-reach |
c) Shark Detect Pro with Auto Empty
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| * Auto empty | * Much lower power - 123 AW |
| * Single power button | * Smaller capacity - .042L vs 0.77L Dysons |
| * Bends low under furniture | |
| * Super lightweight - 2.7kg |
d) Shark PowerDetect Clean and Empty
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| * Auto empty | * Heaviest of all - 3.6kg |
| * Single power button | * Lowest power - 120 AW |
| * Bends low under furniture |
So... on paper, the Dysons seem to be the better choice due to being more powerful.
However, the "auto empty" feature of the Shark is very appealing. Love that idea.
AND even though Dyson are known for high quality (historically at least... I know there's haters here) - for whatever reason, I keep seeing Shark vacuums recommended by people who said they've always had Dysons, changed to Shark and never looked back - they love them.
So I'm confused. I *think* I'm leaning towards the Dyson V15... I love the idea of the Gen5 single power button, and the most power, and all the extra tools - BUT the weight of it, and the multiple reports of the little wheel thing breaking puts me off a bit.
I'm a small (5'1) woman, with joint/muscle pain issues on and off - hence why the trigger/power button thing is something I've noted. Our current Dyson V8 is only 2.3kg, which is a huge difference to all of these ones. But my issues aren't so severe that I probably can't just put up with the extra weight for a bit while I do a quick vacuum. I dunno... what do you all think? Is it a noticeably big difference, does it cause issues?
Our house - hardwood floors through the living areas, tiles in bathrooms, carpet in bedrooms.
! Argh! Help me decide!
I'd really love to hear from u/JohnnyHucky - I've read heaps of your comments, and despite the hate for some brands on these forums, you always have a very fair and measured response, and are primarily concerned with helping people vs just spouting off about your favourite brand.
To anyone who bothered to read this all - thanksssssss :)
Videos
Hi everyone. I’ve purchased one vacuum in my life and it was the Dyson V7. Now, 6 years later and a dying battery, I need to get something new. Here’s what I’m in between:
The Dyson V15
https://www.costco.com/dyson-v15-detect-total-clean-extra-cordless-stick-vacuum.product.4000177472.html?sh=true&nf=true
The Shark Duo Clean
https://www.costco.com/shark-duoclean-lift-away-upright-vacuum-with-self-cleaning-brushroll.product.100487494.html
Price is a factor, but if I love something I will pay the extra amount. My hold back on the Shark is that it has a cord and I find myself not wanting to revert to that, however it’s significantly cheaper and well-loved based on reviews.
The Dyson I’m more inclined to because I’ve had one before, plus it’s light and easy to start vacuuming as you’re not restricted by the cord.
Anyone have insight? Is there another vacuum that you recommend that’s better than both of these but under $700?
Thanks in advance.
I have a Dyson V8 and the battery is toast, so we are looking to buy a new vaccum.
We have a cat and I shed a lot too...maybe more than the cat.
We don't mind staying with Dyson, but I was looking at buying Dyson V15 Detect and it's $800ish on sale right now. Not sure if it's worth it.
I've heard good things about Shark. However, I am not sure what model to consider.
Any thoughts on Dyson VS shark? Is V15 Detect worth it?
My Dyson animal v11 died. I cannot figure out what is wrong with it after taking it apart to clean/check for any clogs, scrub the filter and all parts, etc. battery is fully charged and occasionally sputters to life for 2 seconds before dying again and refusing to turn on when I pull the trigger. Looking to replace it as Dyson customer support hasn’t gotten me anywhere and I can’t find a local repair shop to work on cordless Dysons. Im torn between replacing with/upgrading to another Dyson (looking at Dyson v15 submarine absolute) or jumping ship to Shark. I do not see a shark comparable to the v15 submarine but would likely replace with the shark stratos cordless.
Here are the considerations:
50% carpet/50% hardwood 2x daily use ~2000 sq ft home Pet hair
Budget is ideally under $1000, but that Dyson is in the running so this is negotiable at this point
Any recommendations for one brand versus the other?
In your opinion, which would you rather spend your money on? All things considered quality, price, etc.
Hey guys,
Ive been googling and youtubing around for days trying to figure out what cordless vacuum cleaner I should get. Got recommended this subreddit, and I wonder if you had any advice on which one I should get, or if I should avoid them all together.
I was set on a Dyson v8 absolute, then a V11 advanced, then a Shark Powerpro IZ380EU. Depending on which video or post I look at, theyre all either garbage or fantastic.
If anyone wishes to guide me a little it would be much appreciated.
I live in a 50 square meter apartment so operation time between charging isnt a major concern, no pets and am slightly budget conscious but can bend. I have some thick carpets and very long hair, so a vacuum with good suction power is important. I do wish for a vacuum that doesnt need replacement in a couple years, but apparently thats hard to find.
Thanks!
EDIT:
Also, thought Id add I can get the Dyson v8 for under $300, the Dyson v11 for under $500 and the Shark Powerpro to under $200. Im based in Europe.
Hi all,
I’m trying to choose a cordless vacuum to go with my Miele Complete C3, which is currently in for repair. I’ve had it a while and it’s insured with Domestic & General, so hoping it comes back good as new.
I’ve tried the Dyson V15 Detect Absolute and Shark PowerDetect Clean & Empty (IP3251UKT). The Dyson is lighter and works well, but it’s expensive. I can get it cheaper from Dyson’s eBay outlet, but it only comes with a 1-year warranty.
The Shark PowerDetect is good but heavier, and I don’t think I have space for the auto-empty dock.
I’m also looking at the Shark Stratos IZ420UKT, which seems a good balance lighter than the PowerDetect and comes with a 5-year warranty.
I need something cordless, bagless, reliable and easy for daily use. Any recommendations or long-term experiences with these vacuum cleaners please?
Hey guys! Gotta know what to get! I have no vacuum in my new house. I grew up using extremely heavy vacuums industrial types so I'm mentally bound on only having cordless. I watched vacuum wars on YouTube and dude recommended the Stratos in one video. But I'm really liking the Dyson 11 which is very hard to find especially at a great price. What's a good in between price vacuum from dyson 8-11 that's comparable to the shark stratos. Vacuum must come with many attachments OR able to add for a good price. Im looking for the motor head for stairs too. I have carpet and hard wood. My co workers told me I should stay away from cordless but I really don't know if I care.... but I don't want a dirty carpet. Any recommendations and things I should stay away from please let me know. Also I have no pets.
Budget 300-500ish
At the same price point, what’s a better buy?
I’ve owned a Dyson stick vac for a few years and it was good, until it wasn’t anymore (but it’s an older and lower model than the v8).
I’m really not into replacing parts and doing repairs etc. I just need something that will do the job for the next 5+ years ideally. I take good care of things and keep them clean.
Let me know your thoughts!
hello!! i need serious help lol. idk which one i should get, the airwrap or the flexstyle. for reference, i have thick, coarse, long, frizzy, curly/wavy hair! lol— and i still haven’t been able to determine which is best for me!! could anyone help me with this decision? :))
So I was just wondering if anybody knows which one is better or the pros and cons of each.
I picked up at Costco the Shark Detect (HERE) on sale for $380 + tax. The roller head has the bristles and the fins, but not is not covered with the soft bristles like I saw on youtube reviews. Haven't opened it up yet.
I also saw the Dyson V8 in store (HERE) for $450. The motor head seems about the same as the Shark. It has more attachments, but I probably would only end up using 1 or 2 of them.
I've got a combination of hardwood and carpet. But the hardwood I don't usually vacuum.
The price is almost the same. I've already got a corded Dyson V8 ball from a couple of years ago. I thought about getting a Dyson V15 but not sure I would want to spend the money for one unless it is a life changing vacuum. I thought I would check to see if what people think.
I see so many mixed reviews of people saying their style does not hold no matter what they do and some saying they last a week. Is there any way to know if it will work for me or not? Is this product really worth the price tag? Has anyone tried the Shark one and know if it’s worth saving $300?
Hi everyone. Looking to upgrade from my current vacuum. I've been eyeing the Shark Clean & Empty/Stratos, Lg Cord Zero, and Dyson v15 Detect.
I know that cord vacuum are elite, but since my apartment is mainly hardwood floor/ceramic, I want something that is just easy to maneuver. Between these models, which would you guys recommend?
Thanks!