Introduction
If you are looking for a cordless vacuum that can effortlessly handle pet hair, carpets, hard floors—even long hair—without constantly getting stuck and causing frustration, then the Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H will definitely grab your attention. I have personally used this vacuum for several months in a busy household with two long-haired dogs, a child, and various types of flooring. My question was—can it handle everyday dirt and dust, or will it face the same issues as other typical cordless vacuums, like weak suction, hair tangles, or quickly draining battery?
After long-term use, I can say that the Shark Stratos Cordless Stick Vacuum is one of the best cordless vacuums. It features powerful suction, a foldable MultiFLEX wand, a special anti-hair wrap brush, and Clean Sense IQ, which automatically adjusts the suction.
However, like any product, it comes with a few minor drawbacks that you should be aware of before purchasing. I have explained them in detail in this Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H vacuum review.
Our Verdict
The Shark Stratos Cordless Stick Vacuum IZ862H is one of the most powerful cordless vacuums I’ve tested. It handles pet hair, carpet, and hard floors effortlessly, making cleaning easy and stress-free. Clean Sense IQ and DuoClean PowerFins brush work together to prevent hair from getting stuck. The battery lasts about 60 minutes in Eco mode, enough for practical use. Overall, it’s a strong, reliable, and easy-to-use vacuum worth considering.
Our Rating Score: 95%
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SPECIFICATION
| Weight | 8.9 lbs |
| Battery Life | 60 minutes |
| Noise Level | 80 dB |
| Capacity | 0.68 Liters |
| Model | Shark IZ862H |
| Vacuum Type | Cordless |
| Bagless | Yes |
| Filter Type | HEPA |
Design & Build Quality
First Impressions
The Shark Stratos IZ862H is generally a bit larger and more robust than most cordless stick vacuums—like the Dyson V11 or V12. Shark generally prioritizes practicality and durability over extremely glossy or sleek designs. It feels sturdy and well-made in the hand. It weighs about 8.9 pounds, which is heavier than Dyson models, but the weight is well-balanced.
Build Quality
I’ve used this vacuum quite roughly, and it still holds up great. The dust cup opens with a single press of a button, and the mechanism hasn’t become loose or clunky after extended use. The wand locks in firmly when extended and doesn’t wobble at all. The only thing that feels a bit soft or flimsy is the battery release button, so I’m a little careful when pressing it.
One of the biggest advantages of this vacuum is its anti-hair-wrap roller. I have a golden retriever and two cats and have only had to clean their hair twice in three months. Previously, I had to cut the hair from the roller with scissors about once a week—now the hassle is almost zero.
Design & Features
The Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H has a robust and practical design that feels durable. It prioritizes durability and reliability over power-saving features like a lightweight vacuum. Every part is well-built, the plastic is thick, and the folding parts are so smooth that there’s no wobble or jolt during use.
The MultiFLEX folding wand is an important feature of the Stratos IZ862H. It bends in the middle, so I can clean under low furniture without having to reach under it or lift heavy objects. It also folds up small, so it can be easily stored in a closet or tight space.
The vacuum head features the DuoClean PowerFins HairPro dual-roller system, which features a soft roller for hard floors and a deep-cleaning brush for carpets. This system is paired with a self-cleaning and anti-hair-wrap design, which keeps pet hair, long human hair, and dust from getting stuck in the rollers.
Another smart feature is the Clean Sense IQ sensor that automatically adjusts suction when it detects dirt, optimizing battery usage and ensuring cleaning performance doesn’t suffer. The vacuum also has an odor control cartridge that keeps the air fresh while cleaning.
Cleaning Performance
Hardwood Floors Cleaning
The Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H performs great on hardwood floors. Its soft roller picks up dust, food particles, and pet hair—without scratching the floor. The PowerFins brush simply lifts tough dirt, and the strong suction ensures a clean in one go. The vacuum runs smoothly and can be easily maneuvered around furniture or tight spaces. The LED headlight helps identify hidden dust, making it perfect for everyday hardwood floor maintenance.
One minor downside is that occasionally, small dirt can get stuck on the edge of the floorhead or get knocked off due to the powerful suction, but this doesn’t significantly affect the overall cleaning performance
Low-Pile Carpet Cleaning
The Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H performs very well on low-pile carpet—it’s true, but there are a few things to consider. The vacuum moves easily on low-pile carpet, and the DuoClean PowerFins HairPro roller picks up dust, food particles, and pet hair in a single pass. The powerful suction effectively lifts even deep-set dirt, making cleaning faster. It’s perfect for daily maintenance of thin rugs or area rugs. However, sometimes fine dirt that is deeply embedded in the carpet fibers may require a second pass to clean. It strikes a good balance between performance and convenience for regular carpet maintenance.
High-Pile Carpet Performance
The Shark Stratos Stick Cordless vacuum takes a little more effort on high-pile carpets, but its performance is very strong. The PowerFins brush roll effectively agitates the carpet fibers and pulls out deeply hidden dirt, dust, and stubborn pet hair. The Clean Sense IQ feature intelligently balances suction and battery life, automatically increasing power on difficult areas, and the Boost mode is especially effective on thick carpets.
As a result, even thick rugs are thoroughly cleaned without repeated scrubbing, showing that this vacuum has truly versatile capabilities for a variety of carpet types.
Pet Hair Cleaning
Pet hair is one of the strongest points of the Shark Stratos Cordless vacuum. My long-haired dogs shed daily, but thanks to the Anti Hair Wrap technology, the hair doesn’t get tangled in the roller. This makes cleaning much easier and reduces maintenance.
I’ve also used the included Pet Power Tool on furniture, stairs, and inside the car, and it lifts even stubborn hair within seconds. Truly, it’s a lifesaver for homes with pets and heavy shedding.
Performance Testing Score
| Surface Type | Score(%) |
| Overall Score | 96% |
| Hardwood Floor | 93% |
| Low-Pile Carpet Cleaning | 92% |
| High-Pile Carpet Cleaning | 88% |
| Pet Hair Cleaning | 94% |
Battery Life of the Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H
The battery performance of the Shark Stratos IZ862H varies depending on the mode used. In Eco mode, I can clean hard floors and low-pile carpets for about an hour, which is more than enough for daily cleaning. The Clean Sense IQ mode automatically adjusts suction based on detected dirt, typically providing around 25 to 35 minutes of runtime. This mode strikes the right balance between power and battery life, allowing most deep-cleaning tasks to be completed without frequent interruptions.
Boost mode provides maximum suction, but the battery drains quickly, lasting about 10–14 minutes, so it’s best used for tough areas or heavy pet hair. The battery is removable, so it can be easily replaced for longer cleaning sessions, and it takes about 3.5 hours to fully charge.
For lithium-ion batteries, the battery runtime will decrease slightly after a few months of use, which is normal. Replaceable batteries are available for Stratos models and are usually covered under warranty.
Overall, the battery system of the Shark Stratos IZ862H is reliable and practical. It provides flexible battery runtime according to different cleaning needs and ensures user convenience through removable design and smart suction mode.
Maneuverability
The Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H feels surprisingly easy to move despite weighing around 8.9 pounds. The dual-roller floor head glides smoothly on both hard floors and carpets, making floor-to-floor cleaning effortless. The MultiFLEX wand adds a huge advantage, letting you reach under furniture without bending or lifting and folding for compact storage.
Swiveling around chairs, tables, and tight corners is smooth and responsive, while stairs are manageable thanks to the lightweight feel at the handle. Above-floor cleaning is doable but can get tiring after a few minutes. Overall, the Stratos balances stability, control, and flexibility, making it very maneuverable for everyday home cleaning.
Tools & Attachments
The Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H comes with a set of smart tools that make it useful for many different cleaning jobs. The crevice tool is great for tight corners and along baseboards, while the dusting brush works well on shelves, vents, and delicate surfaces without scratching. For pet owners like me, the pet power brush is a lifesaver—it quickly picks up stubborn hair from carpets, furniture, and even car seats.
All the attachments fit securely, and switching between the stick vacuum and handheld mode is easy. The vacuum also works well with the MultiFLEX wand, so you can reach under furniture or fold it up for storage while keeping the attachments in place. Having these tools makes cleaning stairs, sofas, and other tricky areas much faster and easier, which is why I use the Stratos every day.
Price & Value
The Shark Stratos IZ862H is a powerful cordless vacuum that normally costs $478. It cleans really well with strong suction, dual rollers, a self-cleaning system to stop hair from getting stuck, and a flexible wand that makes it easy to reach tricky spots. Its smart Clean Sense IQ feature senses dirt and adjusts the power automatically, saving both time and battery. Compared to expensive brands like Dyson, it works just as well and even handles pet hair better. Black Friday is a great time to buy, as many stores offer special discounts during the sale.
Maintenance
Maintenance of the Shark Stratos IZ862H is very simple and hassle-free. The dust cup can be emptied easily, and even when collecting pet hair or fine dust, it doesn’t create a mess. Its filters are washable and only need a quick rinse once a month, which helps the vacuum maintain strong suction and eliminates the need to buy extra filters. The Anti Hair Wrap brush roll prevents hair from tangling, so the rollers stay clean with almost no manual cutting required.
The removable battery can be charged separately, making it easy to swap or replace in the future. Overall, the Stratos remains powerful and reliable with very little maintenance—a great advantage for busy families.
Who Should Buy the Shark Stratos Cordless IZ862H
If you are a pet owner dealing with long hair, shedding, or frequent dirt, the IZ862H is a powerful option for you. Its dual-roller PowerFins HairPro system and anti-hair-wrap technology make tangle removal easy. The soft roller glides smoothly over hardwood floors, while the PowerFins brush penetrates deep into carpets, making it suitable for cleaning mixed flooring as well.
If you want a cordless vacuum that’s as powerful as a Dyson but don’t want to spend as much, the Stratos is a great option. It offers almost as much suction as a corded vacuum, intelligently controls power with Clean Sense IQ, and has a removable battery for long cleaning times. The MultiFLEX wand makes it easy to reach under furniture, and it’s also low-maintenance thanks to self-cleaning rollers and washable filters.
But there are some limitations—it’s a bit heavier than some models, and the battery doesn’t last very long when used in Boost mode for long periods of time. You won’t get the long Boost runtimes of ultra-premium vacuums here. So if your main priority is the lightest vacuum or the longest battery life in Boost mode, this model might not be the best choice for you.
FAQ
How long does the Shark Stratos IZ862H battery last?
The Shark Stratos IZ862H battery can last up to 60 minutes on Eco mode, making it ideal for everyday cleaning. Using Clean Sense IQ mode, which automatically boosts suction when needed, runtime typically falls around 25 to 35 minutes. In Boost mode, for deep carpet or heavy debris, the battery lasts about 10 to 14 minutes, giving short bursts of maximum power. The removable battery also lets you swap in a second one to extend cleaning sessions.
Is the Shark Stratos worth the money?
Yes, the Shark Stratos IZ862H is worth the investment. It offers strong suction, a self-cleaning dual roller, and a MultiFLEX wand for versatile cleaning. Features like Clean Sense IQ and the removable battery add convenience and efficiency. For pet owners and homes with mixed floors, it delivers premium performance at a lower cost than many high-end vacuums.
Is the Shark Stratos good for hardwood floors?
Yes, the Shark Stratos IZ862H works very well on hardwood. Its soft front roller gently lifts fine dust and crumbs without scratching the surface, while the PowerFins brush provides extra suction for stuck-on debris. The LED headlights help you spot hidden dirt along baseboards and under furniture. Because it balances power and gentleness, it’s a great choice for daily hardwood maintenance.
Can the Shark Stratos replace a traditional upright vacuum?
Yes, the Shark Stratos IZ862H can replace a traditional upright for most homes. It offers strong suction on both carpets and hard floors, handles pet hair well, and cleans efficiently. However, for very large homes or deep carpet cleaning, occasional use of a corded vacuum may still help.
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