8 Best Shark Vacuum Cleaners to Buy in 2025

This is Shark’s most advanced cordless vacuum yet, and it shows in every swipe across the floor. With 4X intelligent sensing technologies, including PowerDetect and DirectionDetect, the IP3251 doesn’t just clean—it thinks. It automatically ramps up suction when it senses hidden dirt, adjusts for carpet-to-hardfloor transitions, and even cleans in reverse for twice the debris pickup efficiency. If you’re tired of missing spots or manually boosting power, this model erases those frustrations with surgical precision.

In real-world testing, the DuoClean Detect nozzle proved exceptional on both plush carpets and tile, lifting embedded pet hair and fine dust without clogging. The 70-minute runtime in Eco mode is best-in-class among Shark’s cordless lineup, easily covering 1,500 sq. ft. homes on a single charge. The auto-empty base is a game-changer, sealing away debris for up to 45 days and eliminating the dreaded dust cloud during disposal. That said, the vacuum’s weight (around 10.5 lbs) can feel taxing during extended overhead cleaning, and the app integration, while functional, lacks the polish of premium smart vacuums.

Compared to the Shark Stratos AZ3002, this cordless model trades raw corded power for unmatched convenience and automation. It’s ideal for busy households that value hands-off maintenance and deep, consistent cleaning—especially those with pets and mixed flooring. While the Stratos delivers slightly stronger suction, the IP3251’s self-emptying, odor-neutralizing, and intelligent navigation system make it a smarter long-term investment. For those stepping up from basic cordless vacuums, this is the definitive leap into high-end, set-and-forget cleaning.

When it comes to conquering pet hair, the Shark Stratos AZ3002 isn’t just good—it’s relentless. Armed with DuoClean PowerFins HairPro technology, this upright dives deep into carpets while simultaneously scraping hard floors, leaving behind a level of cleanliness that feels almost surgical. The self-cleaning brushroll is a revelation, slicing through tangles and preventing the hair wrap that plagues most vacuums. For pet owners drowning in fur tumbleweeds, this machine is a lifeline.

During testing, the ultra-powerful suction obliterated tracked-in dirt, kibble crumbs, and even fine baking flour from grout lines. The powered lift-away pod lets you motorize clean under sofas or tackle stairs without lugging the whole unit, a feature that elevates it over basic lift-away models. LED headlights revealed dust bunnies in shadowy corners, and the anti-allergen complete seal with HEPA filter ensured allergens stayed trapped. However, the cord management is awkward, and the dust cup, while easy to empty, could be larger for whole-home cleans.

Against the NV360, the Stratos delivers superior pet hair performance and stronger suction, but at the cost of added weight and bulk. It’s best suited for homes with multiple pets and carpeted areas where daily deep-cleaning matters more than portability. While pricier than entry-level uprights, its performance justifies the investment—especially when compared to the more basic Shark Navigator models. For serious pet owners who want pro-level results, this is the undisputed king of hair pickup.

The Shark AI Ultra isn’t just a robot vacuum—it’s a silent, self-sufficient cleaning commando. With Matrix Clean Navigation, it maps your home in a precise grid, making multiple passes to ensure no speck of dust escapes. The 60-day self-empty base is a marvel, holding a bimonthly pile of debris without bags or smells, making it perfect for hands-off households. If you’re looking for a “set it and forget it” solution that actually works, this robot delivers with military-grade efficiency.

In real-world use, the 360° LiDAR mapping nailed room recognition and furniture avoidance, even in dim lighting. It seamlessly transitioned from hardwood to thick rugs, adjusting suction on the fly. The self-cleaning brushroll handled pet hair like a champ, resisting tangles better than most standalone vacuums. Recharge and Resume ensured full-home coverage, even in large layouts. That said, it struggles slightly on very dark floors (due to sensor limitations) and can’t mop—so it’s purely a dry vacuum solution.

Compared to the IP3251 cordless, the AI Ultra trades manual control for autonomy, making it ideal for maintenance cleans between deeper sessions. It outshines basic robot vacuums with its bagless self-empty system and superior navigation, though it lacks the raw power of uprights like the Stratos. For pet owners who want daily, voice-controlled cleaning without lifting a finger, this is the smartest long-term play. It doesn’t replace deep-cleaning vacuums—but it slashes how often you need them.

Don’t let the price fool you—the Shark CS110EM is a budget powerhouse that punches far above its weight. At under $100, it delivers nonstop corded power with zero battery anxiety, making it perfect for quick, whole-home cleanups. Weighing less than 9 lbs, its ultra-lightweight design and swivel steering make it a joy to maneuver around furniture and under couches. For renters or small-space dwellers, this stick vacuum is a no-brainer.

In testing, the direct-drive suction handled cereal spills, tracked-in dirt, and pet hair with ease, though it lacked the finesse of pricier models on high-pile rugs. The convertible design lets you detach the handheld unit for stairs or car interiors, adding surprising versatility. The slim profile slips under beds effortlessly, and the included tools, while basic, get the job done. However, the dust cup is on the smaller side, requiring frequent emptying during large jobs, and the cord is a bit short for multi-room homes.

Against the HV371 Rocket Pro, the CS110EM is lighter and cheaper but lacks LED lights and specialized pet tools. It’s not built for heavy pet hair or deep allergen capture, but for lightweight, reliable cleaning on a tight budget, it’s unmatched. Compared to cordless models, it sacrifices convenience for uninterrupted power and rock-bottom pricing. For first-time buyers or secondary home use, this is the smartest entry point into the Shark ecosystem.

The Shark IX141 is a precision strike weapon for pet messes, designed to obliterate hair, crumbs, and tracked-in dirt with surgical speed. Its HyperVelocity suction delivers a surprising punch for its size, making it ideal for spot-cleaning after meals or shedding season. The removable handheld design transforms it from floor cleaner to car-detailer in seconds, and the included Pet Multi-Tool is a beast on upholstery. If your life revolves around pet messes, this vacuum is your sidekick.

During testing, the 40-minute runtime was sufficient for 1-2 rooms or a full car interior, though power drops noticeably in Boost mode. The LED headlights exposed hidden fur under furniture, and the low-profile nozzle slid effortlessly under sofas. The CleanTouch Dirt Ejector made emptying mess-free, a rare win in this price range. That said, it lacks smart features and the suction isn’t strong enough for deep carpet cleaning—better suited for surface-level fixes.

Compared to the IP3251, the IX141 is far more portable but lacks automation and whole-home endurance. It’s not a replacement for a full-sized vacuum, but as a dedicated pet mess responder, it outshines most handhelds. For those who need quick, targeted cleaning with zero setup, this is the most agile tool in Shark’s arsenal. It’s not the most powerful—but for speed, convenience, and pet-specific tools, it’s unbeatable.

The Shark NV360 is the Swiss Army knife of upright vacuums, blending versatility, power, and smart design into one reliable package. Its lift-away pod is a standout, letting you clean under tables or carry motorized suction up stairs without straining your back. The 0.9-quart dust cup is one of the largest in its class, meaning fewer trips to the trash during big cleanups. For families who need one vacuum to do it all, this model delivers with confidence.

In real use, the brushroll shutoff made transitions from carpet to hardwood seamless, preserving floor finishes while maintaining suction. Swivel steering helped it pivot around chair legs and tight corners, and the HEPA filter with anti-allergen seal captured dust and dander effectively—great for allergy sufferers. The included upholstery and crevice tools handled furniture and tight spaces well. However, the hose is short, and the unit feels slightly top-heavy when using attachments.

Compared to the NV151, the NV360 offers a larger dust cup and lift-away functionality, making it better for whole-home cleaning. It doesn’t match the Stratos on pet hair, but it’s more agile and easier to store. For households that need flexibility without premium pricing, this is the best all-rounder in the mid-tier Shark lineup. It’s not flashy, but it’s dependable, versatile, and built to last.

For allergy-prone homes, the Shark NV151 is a silent guardian against dust and dander. Its anti-allergen complete seal with HEPA filtration traps 99.9% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, making it a must-have for asthma or sensitivity sufferers. The extendable hose gives you 11 feet of reach, turning ceiling cobwebs and high shelves into easy targets. When clean air matters as much as clean floors, this vacuum delivers peace of mind.

Testing confirmed its excellent allergen capture, with no dust escaping the sealed system—even when emptying. The Pet Power Brush made quick work of embedded fur on couches and stairs, outperforming generic upholstery tools. Swivel steering ensured smooth navigation, and the lightweight build reduced fatigue during long sessions. However, the dust cup is smaller than the NV360’s, and the lack of lift-away limits under-furniture reach.

Against the Stratos, the NV151 trades raw power for allergen control and portability, making it ideal for homes where health trumps heavy-duty cleaning. It’s not as aggressive on thick pet hair, but for daily maintenance in sensitive environments, it’s superior. Compared to budget models, it offers pro-level filtration at a mid-range price, making it the smartest choice for health-focused buyers.

The Shark HV371 Rocket Pro DLX is a hybrid powerhouse, blending the reach of an upright with the agility of a stick. Its 500-watt motor delivers deep carpet cleaning that rivals pricier uprights, while the removable handheld unit makes it a beast on stairs, furniture, and car seats. The XL dust cup (0.68 quarts) means fewer interruptions, and the easy-release foot pedal lets you detach the wand in seconds—no bending or wrestling. For those who want upright-level power in a sleek stick form, this is the answer.

In real-world use, the Advanced Swivel Steering made tight turns effortless, and the LED headlights on both nozzle and handheld revealed hidden debris. The anti-allergen dust brush was excellent for blinds and lampshades, and the included pet tools handled embedded fur with ease. However, the cord is short, and the fuchsia color, while bold, shows dust quickly.

Against the CS110EM, the HV371 offers more power, better tools, and a larger cup—justifying its higher price. It doesn’t have the IQ of robot vacuums, but for manual cleaning with maximum efficiency, it’s one of the most versatile corded sticks Shark makes. If you want upright performance without the bulk, this is the ultimate middle-ground machine.