Vacuum cleaners have been around for a while now, and you might think there's not much left to improve on in terms of design or performance. Well, you might be wrong, because Shark has introduced a new range of vacuum cleaners that it claims solve a big problem with today's best vacuum cleaners.
The distinguishing feature of the Shark PowerDetect range of vacuum cleaners is that they work just as well backwards as forwards. Most vacuum cleaners are designed to do most of their suction work when you push them, and the return motion is primarily to get them back into position for another push.
PowerDetect vacuums feature a patent-pending fin design and “DirectionDetect technology” to change that and deliver the same cleaning power no matter which direction you move them. It could… well, probably not cut in half, but definitely significantly reduce, the time you need to spend vacuuming.
I had the chance to see one of Shark’s PowerDetect models in action at IFA 2024 and was impressed with what I saw: I could hear the suction continuing unabated when vacuuming in reverse. It was tested alongside another Shark cordless vacuum without this new feature and sounded noticeably different. The proof is in the cleaning, of course, and we’re in the process of testing one of these new vacuums to see if it’s as good as Shark promises.
The range consists of three models, to suit different households and cleaning tasks. There is the Shark PowerDetect cordless vacuum (IP1251UKT), the Shark PowerDetect Powered Lift-Away upright vacuum (AZ3900UKT) and the Shark PowerDetect corded stick vacuum (HZ4000UKT).
Of those, I'm guessing most people will be more interested in the first one. Shark is the brand behind many of the best cordless vacuums today and a pretty serious rival to Dyson at present. In addition to the new forward and reverse suction technology, the PowerDetect Cordless combines most of the best features of the best Shark vacuums today.
The best of both worlds
Previously, if you wanted maximum power, you'd go for a Shark Stratos model, while if you were looking for advanced technology, you'd buy a Detect Pro. Shark claims the PowerDetect does both. As for “detection,” this vacuum can sense whether it's on a hard floor or carpet, and how dirty it is, and reduce or increase suction in response. It can also tell when it's near the edge of a room, where dust can build up, and will increase suction. Only on that side of the cleaning head. for an extra boost of cleaning power, without unnecessarily draining the battery.
You can bend the wand forward, like a flamingo's legs, so you can reach under furniture without having to bend awkwardly. A 70-minute battery life is also promised, the longest you'll find anywhere. And if you want an even more autonomous experience, you can opt for the version with the self-emptying base.
We don't have any pricing or release date information for the Shark PowerDetect range yet, but we'll bring it to you as soon as we have it.
