Compare Shark PowerDetect Upright Vacuum vs Simplicity Vacuums Allergy Upright Vacuum, S20EZM

Included tools (crevice/duster, pet multi-tool, and a pet power brush) are repeatedly called useful for edges, upholstery, and tight spots. One review of the cordless ‘Clean and Empty’ variant said the attachment set felt minimal.

Included tools are usually described as basic but useful (commonly crevice and a combo dusting/upholstery tool). Several reviewers want a wider or softer dusting tool, and some add aftermarket pet or specialty attachments.

Reviewers generally like the premium look (notably the purple colorway and metallic accents) and the clear dustbin design. Overall impressions skew toward a modern, ‘flagship’ finish.

A few comments call the vacuum simple, clean, or stylish, while others dislike cosmetic choices or mention broken trim/cover parts that are mostly aesthetic.

The Detect system (floor type, dirt level, edge proximity, and direction sensing) is widely described as genuinely useful, automatically changing suction and brushroll behavior. There’s no app focus here—automation is built into the vacuum’s onboard sensors.

Debris scatter/blowback is generally low, and reviewers contrast it favorably against uprights that ‘shoot’ particles forward. Safety interlocks and DuoClean design help keep debris moving into the bin instead of back into the room.

Airflow blowback or scatter is specifically mentioned on hard floors by some users, including reports of particles being thrown back toward feet during use.

Area rugs are handled well overall, but strong suction can tug on lightweight/thin rugs and may require extra passes for larger debris. Better results are reported on thicker or more stable rugs.

Area rug handling depends heavily on height setting and rug type. Some owners say it works well when adjusted up; others say it can grab edges, chew bindings, or feel too aggressive on certain rugs.

Assembly and setup are repeatedly described as fast and painless, typically taking only a few minutes. Most reviewers felt it was ready to use almost immediately.

Assembly is repeatedly described as simple and quick, typically sliding in the handle and attaching the hose, with minimal screws.

One review notes a safety interlock: the vacuum won’t run until the hose is fully connected, which helps prevent accidental blowback or messy operation. This is a minor but appreciated safety/robustness detail.

The bag-full indicator is viewed as helpful when present, but at least one owner reports it failing to reset after changing bags.

Only covered for the cordless variant: the detachable battery is convenient and supports long runtime on lower-power settings. High-power use shortens runtime substantially, as expected.

The bagless dustbin is described as large for an upright and easy to remove, with reported capacities varying by source (roughly 1.3–1.9 L / about 0.5 gal). The size reduces how often you need to empty it.

The bagged system is a major selling point: owners like cleaner disposal, consistent suction, and less dust exposure than bagless designs. Bag capacity is often praised, but replacement cost and bag consumption (especially with heavy shedding or wool rugs) are frequent notes.

Build quality is described as robust and heavy-duty, with materials that feel durable and designed for serious cleaning. The sturdy build contributes to its heavier weight.

Build quality feedback is polarized: some praise sturdy materials (metal brush roll, aluminum wand, rubber bumpers), while others report cheap-feeling plastics, wobble, broken handles/covers, or hose issues over time.

High-pile/plush carpet performance is more mixed: some reviewers still found strong cleaning, while at least one lab test measured below-average pickup compared with other top uprights. Homes dominated by plush carpet may want to compare alternatives.

High-pile carpet performance is generally strong due to agitation and height settings, but some users find it hard to push or overly aggressive if set too low.

Low-pile carpet pickup is consistently strong, including embedded debris and hair, with some tests nearing ‘perfect’ results. It’s widely considered a dependable performer on common low/short carpet.

Low-pile carpet results are typically positive, especially for everyday pickup and pet hair, though pushing effort can increase if suction is high and height is set low.

Medium-pile carpet performance is generally strong, with some testing showing excellent deep-clean pickup. Most reviewers consider it effective on typical rugs and mid-pile carpet.

Medium-pile carpet cleaning is consistently praised, with multiple reports of lifting matted carpet and pulling embedded dirt and pet hair that previous vacuums missed.

Clogging resistance is generally good, but some testing noted debris clumping in the hose and fine sand accumulating on filters, which can reduce airflow until cleaned. A few mentions suggest keeping sensors/filters clean to avoid performance dips.

Some owners mention clogs or brush/belt issues that require disassembly, while others highlight visible clog indicators and easy access to the roller area for checks.

In comparisons, it’s often favored versus older Sharks and many uprights for its automation and overall pickup. A recurring nuance is that Shark’s Stratos can match or slightly beat it in certain sealed/crevice or plush-carpet scenarios, while PowerDetect wins on features.

Comparisons are common: many say it out-cleans certain Sharks/Dysons on carpet and pet hair, while at least one comparison favors a premium canister for ease and deep extraction despite higher upkeep.

Controls are described as straightforward, with clear mode buttons and helpful Detect-mode indicators that show when floors are clean/dirty. The cordless variant’s battery indicator is described as basic, but day-to-day operation is still simple.

Controls are usually described as straightforward, with height adjustment settings that are easy to use. The foot pedal placement is occasionally criticized for accidental shutoffs when bumping furniture.

The detachable pod (Lift-Away/Powered Lift-Away) is widely praised for turning the upright into a more flexible above-floor/under-furniture cleaner. This convertible design is a key differentiator versus basic uprights.

Corded versions are consistently listed around a 30‑ft cord, which most find sufficient. A few reviewers still wish it were longer for very large rooms.

Cord length perception varies: several reviewers call it long enough (often cited as 30 ft), while others say it is shorter than expected and requires frequent outlet changes in larger spaces.

Only discussed in a review of the cordless PowerDetect ‘Clean and Empty’ variant, where cordless operation and quick maneuvering are highlighted as major benefits. It’s not relevant to corded upright-only use.

Cord management is a recurring nit: the cord can get in the way and is not retractable. Storage solutions help, but it still requires a bit of attention while cleaning.

Cord wrap is often praised as neat and practical, but multiple users wish for a retractable cord for convenience and to reduce cord management hassles.

Crevice and groove pickup is generally above average, but a few reviews say it’s not class-leading due to airflow/seal design that’s less concentrated than some competitors. It still performs well for typical cracks and edges.

Only discussed for the cordless Clean & Empty variant, where the auto-empty dock and large bagless container are highlighted as a major convenience. No long-term reliability issues are described in the review text.

Handling is frequently praised for responsive swivel steering and a balanced feel that helps it not ‘feel’ as heavy while pushing. Downsides include a bulky head, strong suction that can tug on thin rugs, and occasional threshold hiccups.

Ease of use is generally high thanks to automation, clear controls, and a large bin. The main usability drawbacks are heft, bulky floorhead size in tight areas, and occasional hassle when changing configurations.

Day-to-day use is often described as simple and satisfying on carpet, but usability drops for some due to weight when carrying, strong pull on thick carpet, short hose frustrations, or brush roll behavior during hose use.

Edge cleaning is repeatedly called excellent; Edge Detect boosts suction at baseboards and corners, and one test rated edge pickup as perfect. This is one of the most consistently praised strengths.

Edge and baseboard cleaning is highlighted positively by some owners, while others still avoid edges on delicate rugs due to brush aggression.

Most reviewers find the bin easy to empty, but bottom-release designs can be messier than top-release systems and may put hands closer to debris. Auto-empty convenience is mentioned only for the cordless ‘Clean and Empty’ variant.

Filtration and dust containment are a strong point, with a sealed system and HEPA filtration performing well in fog/particle tests. Reviewers often cite it as a good option for allergy-conscious homes.

Filtration is a standout: multiple reviews highlight HEPA-style bags and filters, strong dust containment, and noticeable allergy relief versus bagless vacuums.

The DuoClean dual-roller floorhead (soft roller + bristle/fin roller) and integrated sensors are praised for mixed-floor effectiveness and reduced scatter. Multiple reviewers also call the head bulky, which can limit tight-space access.

The floorhead/brush system is powerful but divisive. Many emphasize strong agitation and carpet grooming; many also complain the brush roll runs continuously and can be too aggressive on hard floors and some rugs.

Several reviews suggest the seal/airflow isn’t as concentrated when fully sealed to the floor, which can slightly reduce deep-clean or crevice performance versus top competitors. The cordless variant also notes a squeegee design that can affect sealing.

Hair pickup on carpets is generally very good, particularly for pet hair on rugs. A few notes suggest extremely long hair can still wrap or require occasional roller checks.

Hard-floor hair pickup is widely praised, with the soft roller helping lift hair without scattering. Reviewers regularly mention clean results with minimal push-around.

Anti-tangle performance is frequently highlighted as best-in-class, and many reviewers report little to no hair wrap. One test still saw some long hair wrapping, so it’s strong but not always 100% hands-off.

Fine-dust pickup on hard floors is consistently very strong, often near-perfect in tests. A nuance: fine sand can end up on filters in some scenarios, increasing cleanup/maintenance.

Hard-floor fine dust pickup is inconsistent: some users report very clean results, while others say the brush roll and airflow can scatter particles or require switching to other vacuums for hard floors.

Large-debris pickup on hard floors is generally excellent and tends to avoid scattering, helped by the soft front roller. One review found very large clusters sometimes need a second pass.

Large debris intake on hard floors gets mixed feedback, including complaints about litter or particles being thrown back during use in some homes.

Headlights and Detect-mode lighting are frequently praised for improving visibility and giving feedback while cleaning. Lighting is considered a meaningful usability feature rather than just cosmetic.

The headlight is frequently mentioned as useful for spotting debris, though at least one owner questions bulb longevity and whether the lights are true LEDs.

Hose reach is repeatedly criticized as short, limiting high-reach tasks (stairs, ceilings, tall shelving). It works for quick spot jobs, but it’s not an ideal ‘whole-house above-floor’ setup.

Reach is a frequent theme: some are happy with the wand/hose extension for corners and drapes, while others say the permanently attached hose feels too short and can tug the vacuum toward them.

Reviewers often describe it as one of the most innovative, feature-rich uprights, driven by sensor-based automation and upgraded hair management. The smart behaviors are frequently cited as more than gimmicks.

Some reviewers note it can get low to the floor and reach under furniture better than many traditional uprights, especially when reconfigured into Lift-Away modes. This supports better access in low-clearance areas.

Routine maintenance is mostly straightforward (empty bin, wash filters, wipe sensors), but at least one test found fine sand builds up on a foam filter and increases cleaning frequency. Odor cartridges are optional and removable.

Maintenance expectations are higher than some modern uprights: multiple owners mention periodic belt changes and watching filters/bags, and a few report recurring belt or brush issues.

Handling is mixed: some call it easy to maneuver with good wheel roll and a small footprint, while others find it awkward to lift onto steps, hard to push on thick carpet, or unstable/wobbly when parked.

Noise is typically “upright-vac loud” rather than quiet, with measured levels ranging from the mid/upper‑60s into the 70s dB depending on mode. Detect/boost behavior can change the pitch and volume during use.

Noise is a common downside. Many describe it as loud, though a few say the tone is acceptable or less irritating than other vacuums.

The odor-neutralizer cartridge can leave a fresher scent, and some reviewers liked the effect. Others disliked the fragrance (described as overpowering) and removed the cartridge, so preferences vary.

Onboard tool storage is mentioned as a convenience feature, keeping key tools attached to the vacuum for quick swaps. This helps day-to-day usability.

Onboard tool storage is commonly praised as convenient and secure, helping reduce lost tools and making quick transitions easier.

Ongoing costs are generally low because it’s bagless; routine expenses are mainly filters and optional odor-neutralizer cartridges. One reviewer noted the odor cartridge lasts months and is inexpensive to replace.

Ongoing costs are mostly about bags and periodic belts/filters. Many accept the trade for cleaner disposal and better dust control, but some find OEM bags or add-on tools expensive.

Longevity reports are split: some claim many years across prior Simplicity units and expect long service due to replaceable parts, while others report failures around 1 to 2 years, frequent belt breaks, or brush/motor issues.

Overall sentiment is strongly positive across sources, with Vacuum Wars naming it a top pick and several outlets calling it a standout upright. The most consistent criticisms are weight/bulk, short hose reach, and a few maintenance quirks (like sand on filters).

Packaging is reported as well-protected, with sturdy inserts that keep parts secure in transit. Reviewers who mentioned it were happy with the condition on arrival.

Multiple reviews highlight pet-focused features: strong pet-hair pickup, anti-tangle brushroll performance, and included pet tools. Overall it’s positioned as a pet-friendly upright.

Pet owners frequently praise strong pickup on carpet and reduced lingering hair. A few reports note limitations for long hair on upholstery or brush/belt strain in heavy pet homes.

Most sources position it as a premium-priced flagship that feels worth it if you want top-tier performance and automation. Price-sensitive shoppers may find better value elsewhere unless it’s on sale.

Value is usually rated positively for a bagged HEPA-style upright, with several reviewers calling it worth the money. Some disagree when durability or repair frequency becomes an issue.

Only mentioned for the cordless variant: reviewers estimate roughly 30–40 minutes in typical auto use and up to about an hour-plus on lower settings. Actual runtime varies with floor type and how often boost triggers. Only mentioned for the cordless variant: max/boost runtime is relatively short (around the low teens in minutes). It’s best treated as a spot-boost mode rather than a whole-home setting.

Some users describe a powered-assist or self-propel-like feel, while others explicitly wish it were self-propelled, especially as they age or when cleaning thick carpet.

Lift-Away makes stair cleaning more practical than with a fixed-body upright, especially paired with the pet brush/crevice tool. That said, the unit’s overall weight is still a drawback if you carry it up and down frequently.

Stair cleaning is supported via hose/tools and at least one stair-focused attachment mention, but carrying weight and hose tug can make stair work more demanding for some users.

Several reviewers like the compact footprint and storage friendliness, especially for apartments and tight spaces. Upright stability is occasionally criticized due to wobble or center-of-gravity comments.

Reviews consistently describe suction as very strong and effective across surfaces, including embedded debris. A few note it can need an extra pass on certain large clusters, and sealed airflow is slightly less concentrated than some rivals.

Suction is consistently described as strong, often the primary reason people keep the vacuum. A minority say it is good but not on par with their best prior vacuum, or that strong suction can increase push effort.

Reviews frame it as a ‘powerhouse’ that can handle heavy-duty messes, mixed debris, and frequent pet hair. It’s well-suited to larger homes or demanding cleaning routines.

Multiple sources describe the vacuum as bulky, making it less ideal for very tight rooms or cramped layouts. It’s better suited to medium-to-large spaces where the head can maneuver freely.

Several reviews cite a long warranty (often 5 years) and don’t report common reliability failures in their testing windows. Overall sentiment suggests solid support coverage for a flagship upright.

Support experiences are mixed but lean positive in key stories, including at least one report of a quick refund after failure. Others report difficulty reaching customer service or post-warranty parts frustration.

Switching between upright and Lift-Away modes is generally quick with dedicated release buttons, and attachments click in easily. Some reviewers note the multi-configuration approach can feel a bit fiddly until you get used to it.

Tool changes are usually straightforward, especially with the telescoping wand. Compatibility with older hoses or certain attachments is a reported pain point for some owners.

Under-furniture cleaning is a standout thanks to Lift-Away/Powered Lift-Away configurations that let the head reach farther under beds and couches. In standard mode, the pod can reduce clearance, but reviewers like the workaround.

Above-floor cleaning is strong with the included tools, especially the pet power brush for upholstery. The limiting factor called out in multiple reviews is short hose reach for high areas.

Above-floor cleaning is generally strong with the wand and crevice tool, but upholstery performance is mixed, including complaints about long pet hair on couches and limited included fabric tools.

Versatility is a major theme: multiple floor modes, smart sensing, Lift-Away configurations, and a strong set of tools cover a wide range of cleaning tasks. The main tradeoff is that reconfiguring for certain scenarios can take a bit more effort.

Weight is a common complaint, with most sources describing it as heavy (around 17–18 lb) and bulky. Several reviewers add that good balance and swivel steering help it feel lighter while pushing than the number suggests.

Weight impressions vary but cluster around sturdy and somewhat heavy. Many say it feels fine while pushing, but heavier when carrying up stairs or doing repeated back-and-forth on thick carpet.

Wool and delicate rug compatibility is a concern in the reviews: some users report damage to a rug or needing to avoid edges, and others note wool rugs fill bags quickly even when they like the cleaning result.