🦈 Shark Vertex DuoClean Review (AZ2002) - The New Power Fins Debut!

We buy & test the new Shark Vertex DuoClean. Power Fins debut on the DuoClean brushroll, but does it make a difference?
Buy Shark Vertex - geni.us/ksA5kt (Amazon)
#SharkNinja #Shark
Table of Contents
0:00 Intro
0:10 Cleaning Tests
1:00 Design
2:01 Accessories
2:05 Usability
2:47 Maneuverability
3:11 Maintenance
3:32 Summary
The Shark Vertex is an upright vacuum that doubles as a corded upright or a more portable canister vacuum. It has an advanced DuoClean brushroll system, which combines spiral rubber brushes with a soft roller brush. The 1 quart dust bin canister is removable from the base, which allows you to carry it in-hand as you clean. It dominated our cleaning tests, removing 99% of all debris we tested it against on 3 different floor types. Build quality and performance were truly exceptional and we do agree with Shark…this is definitely their most powerful vacuum ever.
Pros
Multiple configurations for a variety of messes
Improved build quality over the more budget-friendly Shark models. The Vertex cleans incredibly solid.
New PowerFins on the improved DuoClean brush replace more traditional bristles and improve performance
Fantastic cleaning performance removing 99% of all debris we tested it against
Cons
Definitely on the heavier side at 16.38 pounds
One of the most expensive vacuum models Shark offers
Check out the full contextual Shark Vertex Review here:
moderncastle.com/shark-vertex...
Connect with us here:
moderncastle.com/
/ moderncastle
/ moderncastlereviews
Questions or comments? Drop us a comment down below or send us an email here:
moderncastle.com/contact/
We are always happy to help!
Modern Castle is supported by readers. When you buy with our links, we may earn a commission. Click the link below to learn more.
moderncastle.com/about/
Amazon.com Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

[@ModernCastle]

Buy Shark Vertex - amzn.to/3144KuL Questions? Please let us know in the comments. We do our best to answer all questions within 24 hours.

[@nicholatemple9296]

The best feature about this vacuum is the ease of maintenance. Almost everything opens and disconnects easily. There are extremely few shallow channels for debris to build up in. There might be better value options, but this is by far the best vacuum I have ever owned.

[@katc2345]

You answered all my questions and convinced me I want this even more mow! Fantastic job on demo and info! You rocked it!

[@ModernCastle]

Thanks very much! I'm glad to hear the video answer everything for you.

[@laylaqasrany7696]

so glad I ordered one, right before getting our puppy, love it, live near expressway, guests all the time, cleaning now is easy !

[@ModernCastle]

Glad to hear you like it!

[@kathvega22]

Such a helpful video!! Thank you🙌🏻🙌🏻

[@ModernCastle]

You're welcome!

[@jgillette98]

Thank you for talking about the cleaning modes being able to be switched on the handle! This is exactly what I'm looking for and you would think the companies would advertise something like this!

[@ModernCastle]

You're welcome!

[@brittanysobotta6520]

When you detached for the carry around, Sold.... thank you for the in depth video!

[@ModernCastle]

You're welcome!

[@rustystaley7150]

You never used the powered lift away function as it was intended. The canister comes off so you can reach the vacuum under the couch. It is different from their lift away models. So "powered lift away" vs "lift away". The issue with vacuums is they are too bulky to fit under the bed or couch and by creating the powered lift away, it turns the vacuum into a stick vacuum that easily reaches all the way under furniture.

[@DBR00]

Good video! I have a few other Shark vacuums and I thin it's time to get this one. I do have a question, can you remove the cannister and use the rollers to clean under a bed for example? On my last unit, I am able to remove the cannister and clean under the bed using the standard bristle roller. Please let me know right away because I want to order this tonight! Thanks .

[@ModernCastle]

It does have the lift away canister, but once you lift it off the base the rollers disengage. So you'd need to use the hose / attachments to clean once you lift the canister off.

[@Server73512]

Actually you can use the vacuum to vac under a bed with the canister removed. Just did that right now with mine.

[@LRIGWAK]

So can you detach the canister, then attach the wand back to the main vacuum head and power the brushes, thus allowing you to get under things like couches that you can not get under with the canister attached?

[@pepperpaws5276]

Indeed yes great feature

[@Tbvck]

Thanks, I have had my Vertex AZ2002 for over a year and with very heavy use. It is by far the best best vacuum we have ever had. My question is, where can I get a replacement beater roller? I have already ordered new foam filters, HEPA along with a duo roller on Amazon. I just could not find the beater bar or whatever you call it. Can you help? Thanks, TW

[@ModernCastle]

You can find the soft roller brush here - www.amazon.com/VacuumPal-Replacement-DuoClean-Replaces-XPSTFH380/dp/B079NBP7D5?tag=mc_1001-20 I am not finding any replacement options for other brushroll.

[@seanerdid]

How does it do for edge cleaning from the head? (Not wand)

[@ModernCastle]

It's pretty good, but doesn't quite clean all the way to the absolute edge. You can see that there is the plastic guard around the brushroll. That's about 1" thick. So if you're running the side of the cleaning head along the baseboard the closest you can get is around 1". However, if you push the head straight on to the edges you can reach the entire edge, since the DuoClean uses the open front brush.

[@isanchez6465]

I don't have any carpet, except a rug or two. It is mainly due to pet hair and all the dust that comes with having a pet. What is your recommendation?

[@ModernCastle]

The Vertex would be more than sufficient for you. It's great on both carpets, rugs, and hard surfaces. If you want something more dedicated to hard surfaces then I'd suggested the Dyson Omni-Glide - moderncastle.com/dyson-omni-glide-review/

[@breakbeats27]

Does it leave those awesome triangle clean patterns?

[@ModernCastle]

On most carpets, yes

[@raechelyndawn2580]

How do you get told canister off? I can’t figure that out!!! Been watching several videos!!!

[@ModernCastle]

You press the button down on top of the vacuum and then pull the canister away

[@breakbeats27]

What is the differences between the Vertex Duoclean and Vertex Powerfin?!thank you’

[@ModernCastle]

DuoClean uses the DuoClean brushroll Powerfin uses the PowerFin brushroll PowerFin is the newer design and supposed to be better, though in our tests we found the performance to be comparable

[@dannyaguiniga9781]

What size torque driver to remove bottom to access brushes? AZ2000

[@ModernCastle]

I don't believe you need any special tool. There's a little latch thing that unscrews on the side / bottom, then the brushroll slides out.

[@bellm60]

do you know the difference between the AZ2002 and the AZ2000?

[@ModernCastle]

Basically nothing (just some accessories, if anything). AZ2000 is Walmart's special SKU AZ20002 is the standard SKU

[@Martin_Vail_Esq.]

I’ve read online reviews that state the “powerfins” pictured on the box as silicone blades are not what is actually on the brush roll. I’ve seen photos of the roll from manufacturers website which clearly show only silicone fins with zero bristles...please let us know if you can confirm the design only has fins as the bristles collect hair and the fins do not. Also, is the blue model available or only the rose gold color?

[@ModernCastle]

Here's a close up pic of the brushroll - moderncastle.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/shark-vertex-duoclean-brushroll.jpg You can see that it does have bristles, but they are quite shallow and not typically what you'd find on a normal brushroll. In terms of color, I haven't seen the blue. Where did you see that one?

[@Martin_Vail_Esq.]

@@ModernCastle thanks for the reply! If you search “duoclean with powerfins” you will see the brush roll clearly shows only silicone which is misleading in my opinion. The blue color is shown on KZbin reviews and if searching images for the Shark Vertex AZ2000.

[@ModernCastle]

@@Martin_Vail_Esq. Ah, I see, yeah that graphic does make it look like there are zero bristles. A bit misleading. Blue color seems to be the AZ2000, which is the Wal-Mart SKU. Hard to tell if it's different than the main SKU, AZ2002.

[@Fulano.de.Tal.]

Hi N 7, the AZ2002 is different, the blades don't have bristles, and no hair sticks to the roller.

[@Martin_Vail_Esq.]

@@Fulano.de.Tal. the rollers actually have bristles and silicone fins.

[@XenaNZoey]

Is this stronger than the DYson animal 2? Better on hardwoods? I have pets and a lot of hair

[@ModernCastle]

It is not. But it is better on hardwoods due to the duoclean brushroll

[@MrWhiltetail]

How tall is the powered head? I want to know if it will fit under my furniture. Thanks!

[@ModernCastle]

The height is around 2.5" tall

[@MrWhiltetail]

@@ModernCastle That's Amazing. Thanks man!

[@ModernCastle]

@@MrWhiltetail You're welcome

[@miculgamer4843]

The links does not list the Vertex model any more, any idea why ?

[@ModernCastle]

What link? This link - amzn.to/3144KuL ? Or a different link?

[@miculgamer4843]

@@ModernCastle I could't find Vertex on any link you provided, nor on Amazon directly. Maybe it has something to do with the fact that I'm not from UK...

[@ModernCastle]

@@miculgamer4843 Ah, yes, that's probably the issue. That's an Amazon One-Click link...so it will direct you to your Country's Amazon website. But if they don't sell the Vertex then you'll get nothing. I know for sure it's available in the US, but beyond that I'm unsure.

[@colleenlockard1764]

I saw a picture in a review on Amazon showing the Power Fins had shredded after just a few months. I'm wondering if that was a defective unit, or if this is a common problem.

[@ModernCastle]

Seems like if it was a common problem there would have been a recall or more complaints by now. Ours are still doing fine.

[@colleenlockard1764]

@@ModernCastle Thanks. I was wondering if they might have received a fake since the fins were shredded like frayed fabric.

[@ModernCastle]

@@colleenlockard1764 Yeah, that seems possible. I just cannot imagine those rubber fins shredding unless they were misused / abused.

[@John-sn4hl]

What is difference in this and model AZ1810?

[@ModernCastle]

Looks like virtually nothing. I would guess that SKU is the one made specifically for Wal-Mart. Sometimes they include fewer accessories / attachments.

[@MrBlueCreeper]

Try the Shark AI and NeaBot NoMo! ROBOROCK is releasing a new robot vacuum and might be a Deebot T8 and/or i7 and maybe even s9 Competitor! It might have a self-emptying base, a vibrating mop, and a carpet avoiding technology for the mop! I will keep you updated, but it will be released in 4 days at CES 2021. Stay Tuned!

[@kiwibeast2162]

I wonder if Irobot will make an appearance at CES? I hope so!

[@MrBlueCreeper]

@@kiwibeast2162 let’s see!

[@ModernCastle]

We'll take a look at this. We'll also be watching CES to see what else we should check out this year!

[@stickgs]

Can you please explain the differences between Models AZ2000, AZ2002, & AZ2000W? Thanks

[@ModernCastle]

AZ2002 is the standard Shark Vertex DuoClean model. I would call this the flagship. AZ2000 seems to be a specialty SKU developed for Wal-mart. Seems to be the same vacuum, but has fewer accessories / tools. AZ2000W I'm not able to find as much information on, but I think it's also a specialty SKU with specific parts / accessories excluded that are included with the AZ2002 version.

[@stickgs]

@@ModernCastle I spoke with Shark Support and was told that AZ2002 is the latest technology and has the most powerful motor. However on their website the specs for each model # are the same! 1344 watts and 11.8 Amps. So I don't see how 2002 could be more powerful...you?

[@TheFudily]

@@stickgs Likely whichever CSR you were speaking with didn't have extensive knowledge of the product and misunderstood what you were asking. And so they were just giving you a salesman talking point, stating how the Vertex is their latest and greatest vs. their older models of vacuums. AZ2000 is the Vertex with blue accents AZ2000W is the Vertex with rose gold accents AZ2002 is the Vertex with all the extra accessories

[@teresabledsoe5241]

Does the vertex have a led light on the handle?

[@ModernCastle]

No

[@teresabledsoe5241]

@@ModernCastle interesting! When I called Shark customer service they promised that it does! I called twice with that question and received the same answer from 2 different people! Thank you for your help!!

[@ModernCastle]

@@teresabledsoe5241 Do you mean the little light that turns on and lights up the cleaning mode you're on? Or something else?

[@teresabledsoe5241]

@@ModernCastle I have a shark rotator true pet that has a light on the handle that illuminates the floor when I detach the wand, say to use the crevice tool to clean without having to bend over so much. It does a great job of showing what is in dark corners. This vacuum doesn’t have the duo clean feature, was thinking of getting a new one, but wanted that light. Apparently the vertex doesn’t have it.

[@ModernCastle]

@@teresabledsoe5241 Thanks for sharing. That is what I thought was the case as well. I went out to my storage unit and double checked the Vertex, I don't see any light on the handle.

[@NathanHegwer-px3us]

Can’t you go under furniture with the canister off?

[@ModernCastle]

Yes, to some degree, though it's not very convenient.

[@Firemedic712]

How would this do on shag carpet?

[@ModernCastle]

Poorly. Most vacuums with a brushroll are not great for shag carpets.

[@kynascarpecora7989]

Do you like the Shark Vertex or Dyson animal 2

[@ModernCastle]

They are both fantastic, easily within my top list for upright vacuums. The Vertex feels a little more maneuverable to me, and I believe is a little bit lighter. I also love the duo brushroll on the Vertex, that's perhaps the most significant factor in that vacuums performance. Where the Dyson Animal 2 excels is raw cleaning power. 306 AW of suction power.

[@kynascarpecora7989]

@@ModernCastle I’ve always owned dysons but when I purchased one several months ago it seemed like it was made cheaper and so hard to push on carpet. I’ve never owned a Shark but hear so many good things about them

[@Fulano.de.Tal.]

i haven't had hair remain on the roller of the vertex, it's really good. when i want extra suction i select the middle option on the handle.

[@ModernCastle]

@@Fulano.de.Tal. Nice! Glad to hear it's working out so well for you.

[@DillonCleans]

I have a shark apex and I did a review on it a while ago but I will revisit my review. One thing I don’t like on any shark vacuum is the one cyclone. Filters get dirty much quicker than other vacuums. I thing the vertex is great but I don’t see much of an advantage over the apex. I like my apex and it’s really good. And with the price drop of the apex due to the vertex, I dint see a huge advantage to the vertex. The power fins in my opinion are slightly worse than the normal bristles at agitating carpet. And the duoclean is the same. The power is slightly higher on the vertex but the apex still has way more power than you need. So I think the apex is better for value. But the best vacuum across all brands for VALUE is the shark navigator lift away. (Nv352). I really liked this review and I light pick up a vertex myself to test it out

[@brassyjazzful]

Which Apex would you recommend, I'm looking for a new vacuum for my 650 sq ft, apartment, with higher pile w2w carpet. I think there's a lot of allergens in the carpet, been having skin and breathing issues lately. I have an old 25 year old Eureka that no longer does the job, all these new vacuums are confusing..so many features. Was looking at the Uplight Duoclean model, which seems cool.

[@DillonCleans]

@@brassyjazzful I would not go for an Apex if you have have wall to wall carpet. The shark nv352 is better at carpets. But since you’re ok with spending a little more as you are willing to get an apex, I would go for a Dyson. Dysons are much better at carpets than sharks and require less maintenance and they are made to last longer. The Dyson ball animal 2 and multi floor 2 are both great options. But any Dyson upright is good. I wouldn’t go for a cordless one. They don’t have as much power as the uprights and they are more expensive. The only thing that the Dyson doesn’t have is duoclean and zero m. Duoclean is t really needed on carpet anyways. But zero m keeps hair off the brushroll. Dysons don’t have that. So you will have to periodically clean the brushroll if there is long hair present in your home. I hope this helps. Sharks are better for more versatile cleaning. But all carpet is a Dyson job.

[@brassyjazzful]

@@DillonCleans Thank you for the advice...yikes, not sure the Dysons may be a little out of my price range, but I will check them out to see how the lesser expensive ones fare.....Are the Sharks just not good for carpets? I know you mentioned one of the Navigators..people had recommended the Navigator to me and a Rotator

[@DillonCleans]

@@brassyjazzful sharks are good for carpets. But dysons are just better. And sharks also require washing the filter very frequently. Dyson filters stay clean for a long time. The best shark for carpets is the shark nv352. It’s also one of the cheapest sharks. There is a Dyson ball you can get for 189. Don’t remember where but I know I saw one. But go for the navigator if you’d like. The rotators are good too, but the navigator is better

[@marswmnwhoever2188]

I hate the Navigator. I have long haired cats and have burnt out two power heads with hair clogging and eventually burning out belt. 117.00 for new power head. Expensive money making rip off design

[@BOBODDYacronyms]

You missed a pretty important feature. *Powered* lift away.

[@ModernCastle]

Did we? Sorry about that oversight.

[@Boodieman72]

Tangles should be rare while the hair tangled in the video demo.

[@ModernCastle]

This is why testing hair is challenging. Hair that naturally falls out and scatters all over the home is infrequent. But to really test the hair tangling functions in a more objective and visual way, we needed to use so much hair that it puts massively more work on the vacuum. So while it did tangle a portion of the hair, it also removed a large portion as well. I don't think the Vertex is perfect in this respect, but it's significantly better than most, in my view.

[@Mysterios0]

@@ModernCastle from what I’ve heard elsewhere, allowing the vacuum to run for a bit after picking up the hair can potentially allow it to untangle on its own and send the hair into the canister.

[@ModernCastle]

@@Mysterios0 Yeah, that would make sense.

[@angelasandridge8938]

Hiiiii

[@kiwibeast2162]

Hi

[@lacewell72]

⁵