Vax Air Lift Pet Max Corded Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner vs Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus Upright Corded Pet Vacuum

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design, the Vax Air Lift Pet Max and the Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus both offer user-friendly features tailored for pet owners. The Vax model is lightweight at just 6.2 kg, making it easy to manoeuvre around the home. In contrast, the Shark vacuum is heavier, weighing 3.4 kg, which may seem lighter, but the overall design offers a larger XL 2.5L dustcup. This means that while the Vax is easy to carry, the Shark can hold more debris, reducing the frequency of emptying the dustbin.

Cleaning Performance

The Vax Air Lift Pet Max boasts multi-cyclonic performance with no loss of suction, ensuring powerful cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. It maintains constant powerful pickup, even when the 1.5L dirt bin is full. The Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus also excels in cleaning performance with its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens. This makes it particularly effective for allergy sufferers. However, the Vax's focus on maintaining suction even at full capacity may appeal more to those with larger, messier households.

Pet Hair Removal

Both vacuums are designed with pet owners in mind, but they take different approaches to tackling pet hair. The Vax Air Lift Pet Max features a Turbo Tool and Fur & Fluff Tool specifically aimed at removing stubborn pet hair. Meanwhile, the Shark model includes a targeted Pet Hair Remover Tool and Anti Odour Technology to keep your home smelling fresh. While both are effective, the Vax may have the edge for intensive pet hair pick-up due to its additional tools designed for this purpose.

Versatility

Versatility is a strong point for both models. The Vax Air Lift Pet Max can convert to a lightweight lift-out vacuum, making it ideal for cleaning stairs and cars. It also has a 9-metre power cord and a 1.65m stretch hose, providing a long reach for cleaning various areas. Conversely, the Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus features Lift-Away Technology, enabling it to transform into a portable vacuum for cleaning furniture and curtains. Both vacuums excel in versatility, but the specific needs of your home may make one option more suitable than the other.

Ease of Use

In terms of ease of use, the Vax Air Lift Pet Max is designed for smooth navigation around furniture with its steerable technology. This can make cleaning less of a chore. The Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus also offers user-friendly features, such as the ability to switch between hard floor and carpet modes at the press of a button. However, the Vax's lightweight build and ease of manoeuvrability may provide a more straightforward cleaning experience, especially for those managing stairs and tight spaces.

Maintenance

Maintenance is crucial for the longevity of any vacuum cleaner. The Vax Air Lift Pet Max has a 1.5L dirt bin, which needs to be emptied regularly but maintains powerful suction with no loss of performance. The Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus, with its larger 2.5L dustcup, allows for fewer trips to the bin, which can be a significant advantage for larger homes. Additionally, Shark’s Anti-Allergen technology may require less frequent cleaning of filters and the machine itself, making it potentially easier to maintain over time.

Price Comparison

Price is a significant factor when choosing between these two models. The Vax Air Lift Pet Max is priced at £99.00, making it a more budget-friendly option, particularly for those who need an effective yet affordable vacuum. On the other hand, the Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus comes with a higher price tag of £279.99. While it offers advanced features and a larger dust capacity, the price difference is considerable. For those on a tighter budget, the Vax may provide more value without compromising on performance.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Vax Air Lift Pet Max and the Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus largely depends on your individual cleaning needs and budget. If you prioritise lightweight design, excellent pet hair removal tools, and a more affordable price, the Vax Air Lift Pet Max is likely the better choice. However, if you are looking for advanced allergen control, a larger dust capacity, and the convenience of Lift-Away Technology, the Shark Anti Hair Wrap Plus justifies its higher cost. Ultimately, both vacuums offer unique advantages, so consider your specific requirements before making a decision.