When it comes to upright or stick vacuum cleaners, two brands stand head and shoulders above the rest. There are many great products from a number of different brands, but Shark and Dyson are probably the two favorites among the top end products. Neither of these brands are cheap, they are among the most expensive. When you look at cordless vacuum cleaners vs corded alternatives, you’ll be paying even more for battery-powered vacuum cleaners – regardless of the brand.
So this makes the two leading cordless vacuum cleaners from both Shark and Dyson some of the most expensive vacuum cleaners in their class. There are a lot of people who see the sense in paying extra for these machines – their popularity is proof of this. So before spending all that money, you might want to find out which is the best option.
Which is the Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, the Shark IONFlex or the Dyson V8?
I wouldn’t be able to answer that question for you, they are both great cordless vacuum cleaners. They cost about the same but their features are not all the same. So it’s really a question of which works better for your individual needs. To help you decide, we’ll be reviewing both the Shark ION Flex and the Dyson V8 in a comparative review. By doing this, you can decide which of the features on either model appeal to you.
Shark IONFlex
The Shark IONFlex DuoClean vacuum cleaner is a little cheaper than the Dyson V8, though, at this price level, a minor difference in cost won’t affect the decision of most buyers. While your budget may be a secondary concern for some, it should be pointed out that the Shark ION Flex comes standard with two rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, which does make it better value for money than the Dyson V8.
If you’re cleaning a large house and want to work for as long as possible without interruptions, a battery-powered vacuum cleaner has its limitations. You can only work for so long before the battery runs flat and needs to be recharged.
This is why many people who rely on battery-powered devices keep a spare battery (or two). By having a standby battery on charge at all times, you can simply swap out the battery when needed. Of course, buying extra batteries pushes up the cost of an already expensive machine. The added value of the extra battery on the Shark ION Flex might just sway the decision of some people.
The Shark ION battery will give you up to 25-minutes when using it in economy (low power) mode, but when using the full power and the roller brush, this could be as little as half the time. The battery takes 3.5-hours to fully recharge. So if you do the math, having two batteries isn’t going to keep you working continuously if you intend working for 30-minutes to an hour (depending on your power settings). Then again, how many people spend an hour vacuuming, without a break?
The Duo cleaning of the Shark ION-Flex basically means that it has two brush rolls, a hard bristle brush for deep cleaning your carpets and a soft brush roll that picks up heavy debris and provides a gentle polishing action for hard floors. This does not mean that you have to change the brush roll for different floor types, as both the brushrolls are already fixed in the vacuum head hence the name DuoClean. If you need to clean the soft brush roller, Shark has made this really easy – the brush roll clips in and out of position in seconds. Some may prefer separate brush rolls for different floor types, but it can be argued that having dual brush rolls means that there’s no compromise. You can change the type of surface you need to clean by simply pressing the carpet or floor buttons located at the top of the vacuum.
Another feature that I’m sure many will love on the Shark IONFlex is the flexibility of the pipe that gives this vacuum its name. The upright pipe is able to bend in the middle, this makes the Shark ION Flex one of the best vacuums for getting in under furniture. The Shark ION Flex is able to twist and bend to get into places that would otherwise need a contortionist to do this. This Flex action of the Shark also makes it very compact to store, the pipe can fold over double which almost halves the height of the vacuum cleaner. It also the added flexibility of converting into a handheld vacuum cleaner, weighing only 3 LBS. Even in its full form, the Shark ION isn’t a very heavy machine, it weighs 8.7 LBS when used as an upright stick vacuum.
The Shark ION-Flex is fantastic at removing pet hair and it comes with a Pet Multi-tool for removing pet hair from your upholstery. You also get a crevice/duster tool, anti-allergen dusting brush along with two batteries and a charging station. Shark offers a wide range of add-on accessories that you can buy separately and this includes improved air filters. It goes without saying that the Shark ION Flex offers great power, though the Dyson V8 is probably superior in this department. The Shark ION Flex has several power settings to maximize your cleaning power for the job at hand whilst also optimizing the battery time.
In conclusion, I’d say that the Shark has an advantage when it comes to its flexible reach, thanks to their Flex system. Some may prefer the dual roller brushes, while others may prefer separate brush rolls for different floor types. The extra battery does add some value to your purchase, but you’ll see that, when we review the Dyson V8, it has a better battery – so the batteries that you get with the Shark isn’t all that advantageous. In the end, the Shark ION Flex is a fantastic cordless stick vacuum, offering great value for its level of specifications and quality. The customer service that you’ll get from the guys at Shark is of the best and so is their warranty of 5 years on the Shark IONFlex DuoClean.
Dyson V8
The Dyson V8 is probably the most expensive cordless stick vacuum cleaner on the market, though many consider it to be the best. An independent market survey indicated that the Dyson V8 was voted the best cordless vacuum cleaner out of 7 high-end models that were tested. It also has one of the best lithium-ion batteries, giving you up to 40-minutes cleaning time.
Though if you’re going to use the full suction power and use the roller brush for maximum effect on carpets, you’ll get around 25-minutes, or less if you use the extra power boost. This does mean that although the Shark ION Flex comes with two batteries, the Dyson V8 doesn’t really fall far behind when it comes to the amount of time you’re getting from the battery.
Probably the most significant feature on the Dyson V8 is the two-tier cyclonic system that uses 15 cyclonic cones to remove fine dust and small particles from the air before it reaches the dust cup. This improves the air cleaning effect of the already fantastic HEPA filter and reduces the dust collecting in the filter, making for easier maintenance.
Unlike the Shark ION Flex, the Dyson V8 has two separate brush rolls – one for deep cleaning carpets and a softer brush roll for hard floors. The Dyson V8 is a lot lighter than the Shark IONFlex at 5.8 LBS. It also converts into a handheld vacuum cleaner that’s even lighter.
The direct drive roller brush is not only incredibly efficient in its use of the electric power that it consumes, but is also very effective at removing dirt and pet hair from deep inside the carpet fibers and is just as great when used on hard floors. It has a power boost mode that will increase the suction power for 7-minutes, this gives you the best suction when its need, at the same time improving the battery performance under normal conditions.
The Dyson V8 comes with a nice selection of attachments which include a motorized pet hair removal tool, combination crevice/surface tool, standard crevice tool and a soft dusting brush. It also has a wall-mounted docking station for easy storage and battery charging. The dust cup is one of the easiest and most hygienic to empty.
Many will prefer the extra power and battery time that the Dyson V8 offers. The two-tier cyclonic air cleaning system and superior HEPA air filter will make this the best cordless vacuum for allergen-free air in the home. Quality and customer service is every bit as impressive as what you’ll get from Shark but the warranty is not. Dyson offers a 2-year warranty on the V8.
Phil says
Which of the vacuums is the best for hardwood floors?
Nowell Ingram says
I love my shark Ionflex. It does it all and very well. I no longer keep a broom and dustpan in the house.
Lisa Vender says
I would not buy a shark ion Flex or anything it’s a piece of garbage. I had mine for less than a year needed apart called I have to pay shipping and it’s going to take now 4 to 6 weeks always go with Dyson Dyson Dyson
The 5 year warrantee is crap. Had it 3 months and two of the LED headlights went out. When I called Shark Customer service, they said the only solution was to PAY them approx. $40 to remedy the issue.
I hope nothing else goes.
The fact of the matter is all cordless stick vacuums Achilles heal is their durability and longevity. They’re meant to last about as long as the li-ions are viable, which is usually 2-4 years dependent on it’s use.
I’ve owned six Dysons, and all but the V10 I own now has had major issues, from the AC/dc wall adapter (Which Dyson considers a consumable item) to power head failure.) As an aviation engineer, when something breaks, I fully take it apart to see why)
When Dysons are new, they have no equal, but when the patents expire, many competitors have copied their technology.
I also own a ionflex, as I love the dual rollers. Dyson has the same, but you must remove the normal beater-brush to put on the Fluffy head. Sharks two in one rollers are pretty awesome.
There are a couple things that are nice about the Shark that I wish the Dyson had. I really find the lights helpful on the Shark. I wonder if the lights make the battery life shorter. I do feel that the Shark is capable of picking up larger debris.
Truth says
If you leave the lights on in the house does it use more power???
Peter Stavrakoglou says
True, the lights use some power but they are LED lights. LEDs require very little power and I suspect this makes little difference with this vacuum.
Chris says
That is the biggest lie I have ever heard. We already have led lights with more than one illuminating light equal to upto 180 illumination. Best answer battery market was never designed for 2 or 3 hrs of continuous use. A drill I use on jobsite runs 8 hrs but we rarely use battery continuously. Other factors to consider is battery charging method. Cell phone companies for years used trickle method of charging only recently finding that quick powered charges provide longer battery life. So idea of a wireless vacuum is in its infant age and like most tech no one seems to ask other companies for help.
????????????
Nowell Ingram says
My shark ionflex picks up stuff I didn’t think it would… onion skin, pennies, dimes, popcorn, somply amazing…. It has replaced my corded upright and exceeding its cleaning abilitys…. was very skeptical about a cordless…. not skeptical now. Get the shark..
Rick says
I like the flex that allows the Shark to reach just about anywhere easily. It’s almost a toss up in battery life and cleaning. The Dysoj dual cyclonic cone is a slightly superior allergen removal system. Both are great
Why in the world the Shark model did not include a HEPA filter is beyond me. Spreading fine dust in the home while vacuuming is not a good idea for many allergy and asthma sufferers. And Dyson - come on - how many times do you need to hear in reviews that your battery life sucks (LOL) and you are over priced?
Aaron Taulbee says
It does not have a HEPA filter but it does have a triple filter.
Nowell Ingram says
I bought replacement HEPA filters for my shark so YES IT CAN BE A HEPA VAC!
Matt says
What filters did you buy? TIA
Loren says
The HEPA filter may not make it a HEPA vac. My upright plug in vac has dual HEPA filters but it does not seal so if fills the air with fine particles according to my air particulate counter. You might be get lucky and it will seal but the filter is only part of the job. I have a Dyson V8 and the air as measured by the air particulate counter is very clean (I used to work in and monitor clean rooms for manufacturing). Oddly enough my HEPA shop vac is surprisingly clean. Unless you or someone else measures the filter name by itself means almost nothing. Good Luck.
John says
But the Dyson battery last 25 mins on full power vs the Shark that TWO batteries last ONLY 26 mins. Very little difference. PLUS the only time we use the FULL power is on our carpets which is less than 20% of our home. Basic power is more than enough for our hardwoods and time. One battery is enough to do general clean of our 3250 sq ft home.
jon says
wait till ya have to buy a battery! have fun
Mary doe says
How long will the batteries last before needing to replace them. And are they expensive Is there a corded model
J.lowe says
I tried both cordless models and ended up returning the ionflex. I kept the Dyson V8 Absolute AND picked up the first generation “corded” Shark Duoclean stick style vacuum as it was on clearance for $150. This combo easily cuts my vacuuming time in half!
Tip: I bought directly from Dyson who matched Bed Bath and Beyond’s 20% off plus they added three additional tools and a storage bag. (mattress nozzle, 18inch flex hose which works great in the car or for dusting the house and crevice tool). My total was $479 ($600 less the 20 %) with free shipping.
These replaced an older Shark traditional upright vacuum that we had for 12 years. It still works and is relegated to garage and car duties.
My house has two levels and a finished basement.
2000 sq ft Main and upper levels are 50% deep pile carpets, 40% hardwood and 10% ceramic tile.
1000 sqft Basement is 50% low pile carpet 50% tile.
Dyson Absolute can easily clean my top two levels on one charge. The ionflex was nice but it felt awkward to steer compared to the much lighter Dyson. I did appreciate the lights on the ionflex, but ultimately the Dyson’s smaller head units’ ability to get in tight areas ((including the tiled bathrooms) is what won me over.
The corded Shark Duo works great in the basement as the 30 ft cord allows me to clean the entire basement using only 2 outlets.
The Shark corded Duo has incredible suction and pulls like a freight train. I usually use it once a month on the upstairs deep pile carpets as the Dyson doesn’t do quite the deep cleaning that the corded Shark does.
We love the Dyson’s charge station. We keep the vacuum connected inside the kitchen’s broom closet with the Fluffy brush usually attached. It makes cleaning the tile and hardwood floors so quick and easy that we do it almost daily.
Hope this helps!
BJMackay says
Can anyone tell me how long it takes to charge the Dyson?
I have the first generation Dyson and the button has gone; it will turn on for a few seconds then off. I wish the Dyson had a ON and OFF button instead of having to keep your finger pressed on the trigger.
Gail says
It may not be the button. When my V7 turns on and off it has a plugged area. (This is according to owners manual). When it first happened I thought the same as you. After checking the manual i found the clog, removed it and went back to cleaning
Susan Libby says
Does the Shark Ion have an on/ off button that needs to be held in with your trigger finger like the Dyson 7?
Karen says
No. You do not need to hold down the on/off button on the Shark Ion.
Susan says
It’s been a little over 6 months (and it’s finally paid off), but I wanted to comment on one thing that I really dislike a lot about this vacuum. I am a disabled, senior citizen, and I have one cat. The apartment I live in is very small. Living room, bedroom, and a short hallway is all that are carpeted. When I vacuum, I have to stop at least 4 times, if not more, to remove the hair that is wrapped around the roller. In order to do this, I have to remove the handheld portion of the vacuum, hold the roller end over a trashcan, all the while balancing the thing on my lap. I don’t know about you, but I expected more from a vacuum, (that I should have never bought in the first place), that I paid so much money for. I am so disappointed. What a bad decision that was. I just got caught up in the hype. I even hate it when I have to vacuum and I put it off as long as possible. Wish I had more good to say.
Loreli says
Which vacuum are you referring to?
Bill says
I suspect this is the Shark. It defintly accumulates more hair and carpet fibers on the beater bar than does the Dyson.
Linda Henne says
With the Shark I spend more time removing debris and hair from the rollers than I do vacuuming. There is no easy way to do it. I use a hemostat and it still is hard to do. Battery life is a joke and mine came with only 1 battery.
Wendy Adlam says
The Shark ION is hands down better than the Dyson. I have had 4 Dysons.. The battery life on the Shark is excellent. I use it daily as we are a multi pet home. Altho the carpet feature is used much less because we have only hardwood floors so it is on just to do door entrance carpets. I have a 1500 square foot home and this machine battery life is enough to complete. That is the best I have ever had. The Dyson was iffy, and if you upped the suction, forget it. Maybe 10 minutes. The features on the Shark are amazing. Easy to clean, access the beater bar and the lights were a pleasant surprise. I see animal hair and dust that normally would go undected. It flips down to store and a solid built machine.
Susan says
how much do each of these vacuums weigh
Bill says
I have both and just completed a comparison test. Shark has a much more aggressive carpet brush and thus you will get a lot more carpet fuzz pickup than you do with the Dyson. Also, a lot of that carpet fuzz gets wrapped around the beater bar, so you have to pick it out constantly. Both seem to pick up the same amount of deep dirt once you remove the carpet fuzz. The Shark is definitely a longer running machine but it is heavier. Also, the Shark is constant on vs trigger activated like the Dyson. The net result is that you spend more time with the Shark on while moving from one area to the other, thus lessening actual on floor vacuum time. Don’t plan on running the Dyson on high for more than a few minutes. Verdict for me right now is TBD.
Barbara L Nallick says
Bill, have you found any more pluses/minuses about the two? I go back n forth, deciding which to buy! Dyson’s smaller, lighter, if I understand correctly, but wondering if one’s finger aches from holding the button. My need is for wood flooring mainly — particularly birdseed, some of which falls into crevices between planks. Cleaning carpeted stairs I guess too. The Dyson charger that hangs on the wall obviously must have a cord running to an outlet, which none of my closets have. One of life’s tough decisions, ha.
The button is extremely sensitive and light so you will have no problems in that department. I have never used the shark but I am IN LOVE with my dyson which I bought for $299 and right now at best buy online its selling for $279. I have absolutely nothing negative to say. I vacuum everywhere with extreme ease. I find myself vacuuming several times a day when before it would take me a month to hault out my hoover. And having dogs it was not good. I also couldn’t get into all the crevices I get into with the dyson. It is truly a joy to use. I just wish it was able to stand upright so when I have to put it down for a sec I don’t have to run all the way to the room with the stand to do so.
Suzy says
I have had a cordless Dyson for several years and my model requires a plastic slotted side on the roller unit to be unscrewed to clean the rollers, which is not easy - a quarter has worked best for me. I can not see how the new units break down to clean the rollers.
Susan Neal says
I am also a disable senior using the Shark Duo
with cord. It does clean exceptionally well. I have 2 cats and a dog. Plus living in the desert everything is covered with dust. It is difficult to maneuver or turn. As long as you are going straight it is great. The cord is long but cumbersome. This is the first bagless vacuum I have owned and cleaning the canister is hum bug; especially if have you have allergies and that is why I chose this vaccum. Cons as mentioned above and Pros clean carpet well but cleaning the rollers is not something I don’t want to do especially so often. I would think Shark would issue an refund if you are not happy; they have an excellent customer service record.
Leah says
I have had my Shark Ion MultiFlex, I have a problem getting it to pick up anything. It turns itself off after only vucuuming for a few minutes and takes at least 30 minutes. Had a Dyson Upright for many years. Have not tried the Dyson stick.