Shark AZ1002 vs ZU782

This review covers two of Sharks latest upright vacuums the AZ1002 and the ZU782. At first glance, both of these vacuums seem very similar however there is one key difference. Read our comparison of the AZ1002 vs ZU782 to learn more.

You can have a look at the comparison table below to get a brief overview of the main differences between these two vacuums.

Comparison Table

(Note: Attachments might differ depending on which retailer you purchase the vacuum from)

Shark AZ1002 vs ZU782 – The Differences

• The AZ1002 has The powered liftaway feature while the ZU782 doesn’t.

• The AZ1002 has a slightly larger dust cup. The AZ1002 dust cup size is 1.5 quarts while the ZU782 size is 1.3 quarts.

• The ZU782 has a larger cleaning path, but only by 1 inch.

• The AZ1002 costs more than the ZU782.

Which vacuum is better?

We would recommend the AZ1002 model with a caveat. The main difference between these vacuums is the powered liftaway feature.

This means the AZ1002 model allows you to detach the canister and use the canister to vacuum in hard to reach places such as under the couch. The brush rolls will still work in this mode giving you more cleaning power.

The ZU782 model on the other hand has a liftaway feature. Keep in mind the ZU782 model is usually cheaper.

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What is Duo Clean Technology

The implementation of duo clean technology allows for more efficient cleaning on both hardwood floors and carpets.

The dual brush roll allows the vacuum to pick up large particles, small particles and stuck on dust that you would usually find on hardwood floors.

The bristle brush is ideal for cleaning carpets and the soft brush roll pulls in larger particles and work on floors to provide a more polished look.

What is Zero M Cleaning Brush Roll

Most of us are familiar with the problem, of hair wrapping around the brush-roll of our vacuums and having to manually remove the hair.

Shark has alleviated this problem with the Zero M self-cleaning brush-roll. As their slogan says “we remove the hair wrapped around the brush roll so you don’t have to”.

The self-cleaning brush roll has a series of protrusions that constantly remove hair from the brush roll as you vacuum.

What is Powered Liftaway

The powered liftaway feature allows you to detach the canister pod so you can clean hard to reach areas while still delivering power to keep the brush roll spinning.

This feature gives you more maneuverability when using the vacuum to reach hard to reach areas such as under couches or when cleaning above ground areas.

What is the difference between powered liftaway and liftaway

Lift-Away (ZU782 model) means that the main unit can be detached from the wand at the click of a button, turning your upright vacuum into a portable.

Powered Lift Away (AZ1002 model) delivers power directly to the brush roll head even in Lift Away mode.

Detailed Comparison of the Features

• Cleaning Performance (Winner AZ1002) – In this case we would go with the AZ1002 model mainly because it has the powered liftaway feature that allows the brush rolls to still work in this mode thus giving you more cleaning power.

• Weight & Dimensions (Tie) – Both vacuums are around the same weight. With regards to the dimensions, the AZ1002 has a similar length and width but the AZ1002 is taller.

• Maneuverability ( Winner AZ1002) – Both vacuums have the liftaway model. However the AZ1002 has the powered liftaway model.

• Accessories (Tie) – Both vacuums have a wide variety of accessories.

• Hose Length (Winner ZU782) – The ZU782 model has a longer hose length. The AZ1002 is 5.5 feet compared to 8.4 feet for the ZU782 model.

• Cost (Winner ZU782) – The ZU782 model is usually cheaper. You can check the price here.

Quick look at the AZ1002

Who is this vacuum best suited for?

If you want a multipurpose vacuum that is good for all floor types and ideal if you have to vacuum pet hair this vacuum is ideal. It seems like shark has gone out of their way to create a vacuum with all the bells and whistles.

Quick look at the Shark ZU782

Who is this vacuum best suited for?

This is a good all round vacuum. Keep in mind it is not as powerful as the AZ1002 and it does not have the powered liftaway feature but it is cheaper. It does however have the duo clean brush roll and the zero m self-cleaning brush roll.