Shark PowerDetect Speed Review (2026): Light and Powerful
Shark’s new PowerDetect Speed is lighter and more affordable than the original, but still managed to ace most of my vacuum tests.
The Shark PowerDetect Speed is a new cordless vacuum that compares favorably to the original Shark PowerDetect, according to recent testing. This lighter, slimmer, and cheaper model comes with an optional base station for self-emptying and charging, which sets it apart from the original. The vacuum features a 350-watt motor, slightly less powerful than the original's 380-watt motor, but still performs admirably across various test conditions.
It excels on sand and thin rugs, matching the efficiency of more expensive Dyson vacuums. It effectively picks up debris from carpets, even from recently vacuumed areas, and its wand bends for easy furniture vacuuming. The PowerDetect Speed's smart vacuum head automatically adjusts suction based on floor type and dirt level, with color-coded lights for different surfaces.
It slightly trails behind the higher-priced Dyson Gen5Detect and V16 Piston Animal but still outperforms many competitors, including the V10 Konical and V15 Detect. The Clean & Empty version, with its base station and integrated lights, is a pricier but more feature-rich option, currently on sale for $400. The vacuum's overall performance is comparable to the original PowerDetect, making it a strong contender in the $500 price range.
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