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Sunday, February 16th
Shark is a well-established vacuum brand that has been in business for over two decades. They have a perfect "A+” rating from the Better Business Bureau and have been accredited since 2014. Shark has been recognized as the top brand for multi-function robot vacuum cleaners in the United States by The NPD Group, a reputable market research company.
8 different models
If you want a hands-free experience, Shark has self-emptying systems that automatically dispose of collected dust into a bagless base. For those who want to tackle two tasks in one go, their 2-in-1 vacuuming and mopping robots are a perfect choice, as they vacuum and wet mop simultaneously, saving you time. However, if your priority is deep-cleaning, they offer vacuum-only robots that can effectively clean carpets and hard floors throughout your entire home.
Matrix vacuums move in a precision grid
If you're looking for the most straightforward robot vacuum you can get from Shark, the Shark Matrix Self-Empty Robot Vacuum is a great choice at $499, featuring advanced cleaning and mapping abilities. If you need a device that can both vacuum and mop, consider the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Self-Empty Robot Vacuum and Mop, available exclusively online for $449.40. For the ultimate in convenience and cleanliness, the premium Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop at $699.60 comes with a larger self-emptying base and a 3-year VIP warranty. Each model increases in features and complexity, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
Detect Series vacuums won't get stuck
The Shark Detect Pro series uses advanced technology to automatically adjust to different types of dirt and floor surfaces. It can easily transition from hardwood flooring to raised carpet without getting stuck. The standalone vacuum, priced at $599.99, has neat features like DirtDetect and NeverStuck technology, and a special seal to help contain allergens. If you want more, there's an $899.99 bundle that includes a cordless vacuum. Why would you want a manual vacuum if you're shopping for a robot vacuum, you might ask? Shark explains that the robot is for "thorough maintenance cleans”, while the cordless stick vacuum is for deep cleaning of not just floors, but furniture and stairs, too.
Cheapest option is $179.99
The Shark ION Robot Vacuum, priced at an affordable $179.99 (at the time of our review, down from $279.99), is a great starter for anyone new to robot vacuums and is Shark's lowest priced robot vacuum. Its Tri-Brush System is designed to clean all types of surfaces, edges, and corners effectively. Plus, you can control it easily from your phone with the SharkClean app, or even by using voice commands with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. It avoids obstacles like stairs and furniture and provides up to 2 hours of cleaning time, which should be enough for cleaning your whole home (unless you live in a mansion, in which case, you can probably afford to hire a housekeeper). But keep in mind that, among the Shark vacuums discussed, this is the only model that doesn't come with a self-emptying feature.
AI Ultra vacuum is forgettable
The Shark AI Ultra Self-Empty Robot Vacuum seems to offer advanced technology, but when you look closer, you might find it doesn't stand out much from other Shark models. With features like Precision Home Mapping with 360° LiDAR, object avoidance, and systematic cleaning patterns, it shares much of its core technology with other models, particularly those in the Shark Matrix series. While it promises a range of great features, including reducing allergens, it's not clear if it's worth the higher price - about $600. At the time of our review, it wasn't even available for purchase. We wonder if its "advanced AI" label truly means it's better, or if it's just a clever marketing strategy to stand out among other similar products.
Get 10% off
Shark offers a 10% discount on your first order when you sign up for their email list. By subscribing, you'll get updates on their latest products and sales. This is a great way to stay on top of the best ways to save some money when purchasing their products.
One-year warranty
SharkNinja offers a one-year limited warranty for most of its vacuum products, but only if you bought it from an authorized retailer. If anything goes wrong with your vacuum that's not your fault within the first year of purchase, SharkNinja may fix it or replace it. If they give you a new vacuum, the warranty lasts another six months or until the end of the original warranty, whichever is longer. However, parts that wear out from regular use (like filters or pads) aren't covered, and you can't use the warranty if you break the vacuum yourself, use it incorrectly, or get it fixed by someone who's not approved by SharkNinja. Also, the warranty only applies to products purchased and used in North America.
Free shipping and 60-day guarantee
Depending on where you buy, shipping for your Shark robot vacuum will probably be free. Most vacuums also have a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
Some cosmetic issues
You're not alone if you're having trouble with dust collecting inside the plastic compartment of your Shark Detect Pro Cordless Stick Vacuum. Many people have called Shark Support about this issue, but it seems there's no easy way to clean or remove it. Shark has replaced the vacuum for some users, but the problem appears to persist. If you're facing the same issue, you might want to contact Shark Support. They may offer a replacement or even a full refund. It looks like this could be a design flaw that Shark is already aware of.
Vacuums might get a little depressed
One customer reported that their Shark robot vacuum seems to be having an existential crisis, thinking it's perpetually on the edge of a cliff. Just when they're ready to replace it, the vacuum perks up and gets back to work for a few weeks.
Thorough and doesn't take much maintenance
On the other hand, Shark has its fair share of happy customers. One has been in a steady relationship with their Shark vacuum for over 3 years. Sure, it occasionally forgets its map and schedule (don't we all?), but it's no biggie. It just takes a little nudge and it's back on track. Generally, customers also really appreciate that hair doesn't get tangled in the rollers and the thorough matrix cleaning, which covers the same area twice, but in two different directions.
#1 brand for robot vacuums
It's a good sign for Shark that we didn't find any "this brand totally sucks (and not in a good way)” callout posts on social media. Yes, you can find complaints about individual models and some less-than-stellar experiences with customer service, but you'll also find plenty of people happy with their Sharks. (Their "A+” from the BBB speaks to that, too.) Shark has all the markings of a good robot vacuum company, and we're happy to recommend them as our #1 pick.
Robot vacuums have soared in popularity over the past few years. And what's not to love? Imagine waking up to a freshly vacuumed house every day without lifting a finger. That's the promise of robot vacuums, a marvel of modern technology designed to make your life easier.
Gone are the days of dragging around a heavy vacuum cleaner, trying to reach under furniture, or struggling to clean tight spaces. Robot vacuums glide effortlessly across your floors, sucking up dirt, dust, and pet hair, navigating around obstacles with ease, and even docking themselves to recharge.
One of the main reasons robot vacuums are so popular is their unparalleled convenience. Unlike traditional vacuum cleaners that require manual operation and supervision, robot vacuums autonomously navigate through the home, effortlessly cleaning floors all by themselves. This hands-free approach to vacuuming saves time and effort, letting you enjoy a cleaner living environment without the hassle of manual labor.
Robot vacuums also offer a level of efficiency and thoroughness that rivals traditional vacuum cleaners. Equipped with advanced sensors and intelligent navigation systems, these robotic devices meticulously map out the layout of the home and strategically maneuver around obstacles, furniture, and tight spaces. Additionally, some models feature smart mapping technology that allows users to designate specific cleaning zones or schedule cleaning sessions according to their preferences.
However, not all robot vacuums are created equal. There are different models available from lots of different brands, and each vacuum is designed to tackle different challenges. Some are built for homes with pets, equipped with powerful suction and specialized brushes to pick up hair. Others are designed for homes with various types of flooring, from hardwood to high-pile carpets, adjusting their cleaning mode accordingly. There are even models that can mop your floors after vacuuming them.
As you consider different robot vacuums, you'll notice differences in battery life, suction power, navigation capabilities, and smart features. Some vacuums can map your entire home and follow a precise cleaning path, while others take a more random approach but still cover your floors effectively. Smart features vary too, with some models offering app control, voice assistant compatibility, and detailed cleaning reports.
It's a reality that some robot vacuum companies may have lapses in quality control, meaning sometimes, you might get sent a dud. This makes customer service incredibly important. Dependable customer service that offers prompt support and hassle-free replacements can significantly mitigate these concerns. Look for companies with positive reviews specifically mentioning their responsiveness and problem-solving capabilities. This can be a lifesaver if you encounter any issues with your vacuum.
When shopping for a robot vacuum online, consider the following:
Top Consumer Reviews has evaluated and ranked the best robot vacuums available, taking into account factors like cleaning performance, user-friendliness, durability, value for money, warranty, return policies, and customer feedback. Whether you're looking for a basic model to keep your floors tidy or a high-tech machine that can tackle a variety of cleaning tasks, we've got you covered. We hope this helps you find the perfect robot vacuum to meet your needs and make your daily routine a little easier.
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