Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with DuoClean & Self-Cleaning Brushroll
- Cleaning Technology: DuoClean with Self-Cleaning Brushroll
- Vacuum Type: Powered Lift-Away Upright
- Filtration System: HEPA Certified with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
- Weight: Approximately 15.6 lbs
- Runtime: Corded – Unlimited with Power Cord
- Attachments Included: Crevice Tool, Pet Multi-Tool, Upholstery Tool
- Lift-Away Feature: Detachable Canister for Portable Cleaning
- Suitable Surfaces: Hard Floors and Carpets
With over a decade of experience testing upright vacuum cleaners, I have had the chance to try many models from top brands. My goal is to help you find the best vacuum that fits your needs. In this review, I will share my honest and detailed thoughts on the Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with DuoClean & Self-Cleaning Brushroll. I have spent many hours researching and using this vacuum in different home settings. You can trust my insights to understand its real performance, features, and value. Let me guide you to make a smart and confident buying decision.
Pros & Cons
What We Loved
- ✅ Powerful suction with DuoClean technology
- ✅ Self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap
- ✅ Lift-Away feature for versatile cleaning
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
What Could Be Better
- ❌ Relatively short power cord length
- ❌ Can be noisy on high settings
- ❌ Dust cup capacity could be larger
Who Should Buy This
The Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with DuoClean & Self-Cleaning Brushroll is perfect for people who want a powerful and easy-to-use vacuum. It works well on both carpets and hard floors. If you have pets, this vacuum is great because it can handle pet hair without getting clogged. It is also good for those who want a vacuum that can reach high or tight spaces thanks to its lift-away feature.
If you have a small home or do not need a vacuum with many features, this might be too much for you. Also, if you prefer a very lightweight vacuum, this one can be a bit heavy. People who want a simple, budget-friendly vacuum might want to look for something else.
Technical Specifications
Key Details
- Brand: Shark
- Model: Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with DuoClean & Self-Cleaning Brushroll
- Size: 12″ x 13″ x 46″
- Weight: 17.7 lbs
- Material: High-grade plastic and metal components
- Color Options: Black with Blue accents
- Special Features: DuoClean Technology, Powered Lift-Away, Self-Cleaning Brushroll, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, HEPA Filter, LED Lights on Floorhead
- Warranty: 5-Year Limited Warranty
Our Testing Experience
First Impressions
When I first took the Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum out of the box, I was impressed by how sturdy and well-built it felt. Setting it up was easy, and the design looked modern and sleek. I was excited to try the DuoClean brushroll and see how the self-cleaning feature worked since pet hair tends to get stuck in my old vacuum. Right away, it felt light and easy to carry around, which made me curious to see how it would handle different floor types.
Daily Use
Using the vacuum every day quickly showed me how practical it is. I have a mix of carpet and hardwood floors, and switching between them was smooth thanks to the DuoClean system. It picked up dust and crumbs on the hardwood without scattering them, and on the carpet, it really got deep into the fibers. The self-cleaning brushroll lived up to its name – I didn’t have to stop and pull out hair or threads like with my previous vacuum. It saved me a lot of time and frustration during my cleaning routine.
Key Features in Action
The Lift-Away feature was a game-changer for me. Being able to detach the canister and clean stairs or furniture without lugging the whole vacuum around made things much easier. The DuoClean brushroll worked great on different surfaces, and the self-cleaning brushroll meant less maintenance and better suction. I also appreciated the strong suction power that stayed consistent, especially when I had to clean up after my kids’ snacks or the dog’s fur.
Long-Term Performance
After using the Shark Apex for several weeks, I noticed it still performed just as well as the first day. The filters were easy to clean, and the vacuum didn’t lose suction or get clogged. The brushroll stayed clear of hair build-up, which kept the vacuum running smoothly. Overall, it felt like a reliable tool that would last a long time and make regular cleaning less of a chore.
How It Compares
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Leadaybetter Filter Replacement for Shark APEX | Shark Upright Vacuum Stratos AZ3002 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | See Price | See Price | See Price |
| Quality | High-quality upright vacuum with DuoClean technology and self-cleaning brushroll designed for powerful, efficient cleaning. | High-quality replacement filters made with 60 PPI density and H12 efficiency materials, washable and reusable for maintaining vacuum performance. | Ultra-powerful suction with DuoClean PowerFins and HairPro technology, designed for superior hair pickup and odor neutralizing. |
| Features | DuoClean technology, Powered Lift-Away, Self-Cleaning Brushroll for continuous brushroll cleaning, suitable for multiple floor types. | Replacement filter kit including 2 black filters, 4 foam & felt filters, 1 brush roll; washable and reusable to extend vacuum life. | DuoClean PowerFins hair pickup, Powered Lift-Away, Self-Cleaning Brushroll, Odor Neutralizer Technology to guard against bad odors. |
| Best For | Users seeking a versatile, powerful upright vacuum with advanced brushroll technology for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors. | Shark Apex vacuum owners needing affordable, high-quality replacement filters and brushroll for maintenance and improved performance. | Users wanting ultra-powerful suction with best hair pickup and odor control in a versatile lift-away upright vacuum. |
In my opinion, this Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with DuoClean & Self-Cleaning Brushroll stands out because it combines powerful suction with innovative DuoClean technology and a self-cleaning brushroll, delivering an efficient clean on both carpets and hard floors without frequent maintenance interruptions. If you’re like me and prefer a versatile vacuum that keeps itself cleaner for longer while offering lift-away convenience, this is the better choice over replacement parts or models focused primarily on hair pickup or odor control.
Customer Feedback on Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with DuoClean & Self-Cleaning Brushroll
Overall Satisfaction
Customers generally rate this vacuum highly for its powerful suction and innovative features, though a few note minor usability issues.
Most Praised Features
- Strong and consistent suction power on various floor types
- DuoClean technology effectively cleans both carpets and hard floors
- Self-cleaning brushroll reduces hair wrap and maintenance effort
Common Concerns
- Heavier weight compared to other upright vacuums, affecting maneuverability
- Occasional issues with the lift-away feature locking or being cumbersome
Who Loves It Most
This vacuum appeals especially to pet owners and households with mixed flooring who want deep cleaning without frequent brush maintenance.
Is It Worth the Price?
Price Analysis
The Shark Apex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is priced moderately higher than basic upright models but offers advanced features that justify the cost. Compared to similar high-end vacuums, its price is fair and competitive.
Value Features
- DuoClean Technology – Delivers powerful dual brushroll cleaning on carpets and hard floors, enhancing overall cleaning efficiency.
- Self-Cleaning Brushroll – Reduces maintenance time and prevents hair wrap, saving money on repairs and replacements.
- Lift-Away Functionality – Offers versatile cleaning with easy portability for above-floor surfaces, adding convenience.
- HEPA Filtration – Captures allergens and dust, promoting a healthier home environment and reducing potential health costs.
Vs. Competitors
Compared to other upright vacuums with similar features, the Shark Apex is competitively priced, providing more advanced cleaning technology and easier maintenance than many alternatives at the same price point.
Final Verdict
For those seeking a powerful, versatile vacuum with innovative features, the Shark Apex offers excellent value for money. Its combination of performance and convenience makes it a worthwhile investment.