Air purifiers have become an increasingly popular way to remove allergens, pollutants, and odors from your home. With more of us conscious about indoor air quality, brands like Dyson and Shark have released high-tech models into the market.
But with so many options, how do you decide which air purifier is right for your needs and budget?
We break down the key similarities and differences between Dyson and Shark air purifiers across critical categories. Read on for a detailed comparison review from a real-world perspective.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Dyson | Shark |
| Air Purification Technology | Uses patented Air Multiplier and auto sensing technology for whole-room purification | Focuses on HEPA and activated carbon filtration for local area efficiency |
| Design and Appearance | Elegant and minimalist; advanced tech look | More functional and compact; plain appearance |
| Smart Controls | App connectivity, air quality sensors, auto mode | Some models offer basic app and auto features |
| Room Size Coverage | Better for large open spaces up to 800 sq ft | Ideal for tight rooms under 200 sq ft |
| Cost | $400 to $800 for most models | $100 to $500 for range |
| Long Term Costs | Pricier replacement filters (~$70); higher energy consumption | Cheaper replacement filters (~$30); uses less energy |
| Warranty | Generous 2-5 years coverage | 1 year with some extended options |
| Noise Levels | Virtually silent operation; calm airflow | Low hum at higher fan speeds |
| Maintenance Needs | Annual filter changes recommended | Replace filters 6-12 months based on usage |
| Air Filtration Durability | Dense filters clog faster over time | Maintains performance longer between changes |
| Aesthetic Ambiance | Sleek modern statement piece | Neutral and functional |
Air Purification Technology Comparison
Both Dyson and Shark leverage similar core air purification technologies like HEPA filters to trap pollutants and activated carbon to tackle odors and gases. However, Dyson does bring a few proprietary innovations to the table.
- Dyson Air Purifiers
Dyson air purifiers use a combination of HEPA filters and activated carbon filters to purify the air.
Their distinctive trademark is the “Air Multiplier” technology that projects a smooth, powerful stream of purified air across the whole room.
Models like the Dyson Pure Cool combine an air purifying fan for cleaner, cooler breezes in summer.
Top-end Dyson air purifiers also feature intelligent sensors that automatically detect and react to changes in air quality.
This allows the machine to adjust fan speeds accordingly to conserve energy.
- Shark Air Purifiers
Shark air purifiers use a tried and tested formula of HEPA filters and activated carbon filters too. Some models also come with an antimicrobial treatment to prevent filter degradation.
While they miss out on Dyson’s patented extras, Shark air purifiers focus on getting the basics right. Most models feature an automatic fan mode that revs up when the machine detects particles or odors. This helps save on electricity bills while keeping indoor air clean.
Comparison of Design & Features
When it comes to looks and features, Dyson air purifiers edge out as the more premium, tech-forward range. However, Shark models offer great functionality too, especially for smaller spaces.
- Dyson Air Purifier Design
Dyson air purifiers scream modern and elegant.
They have a minimalist, cylindrical design with smooth finishes that come in sleek silver/white or black/nickel color schemes.
The fancier models have small LCD displays that highlight current air quality levels.
Thanks to their compact shape and lack of visible blades, Dyson air purifiers blend seamlessly into living spaces.
They don’t take up much floor space either, making them suitable for studios and apartments.
The signature air multiplier technology prevents dirty airborne particles from landing back on surfaces too.
- Shark Air Purifier Design
Shark air purifiers favor function over form. They have a traditional tower fan-style shape with large HEPA filters clearly visible behind grilles.
While they may lack Dyson’s avant-garde aesthetics, Shark models take up a smaller footprint. This compact rectangular shape can sit snugly in corners or against walls.
Most Shark air purifiers come in a minimalist black or white finish with some metallic accents and intuitive control panels.
They also have nifty design touches like integrated carry handles on the back. This enhances portability if you want to move the unit between rooms.
Additional Smart Features
Here are some extra smart features offered on premium Dyson and Shark models:
- WiFi connectivity and smartphone app integration for remote operation and air quality monitoring
- Air quality sensors with auto mode to automatically adjust fan speed
- Real-time air quality displays showing current pollution levels
- Portable operation with built-in batteries
While app connectivity is useful for tracking air quality metrics, having automatic adjustments and ambient displays on the unit itself offers more convenience. This allows you to monitor indoor air quality without constantly checking your phone.
Effectiveness For Room Size
Dyson and Shark rate their air purifiers based on room size coverage and airflow capacity. Generally, Dyson models cater better for larger spaces, while compact Shark purifiers work well for small rooms.
- Dyson Air Purifier Coverage
The clean air stream generated by Dyson air purifiers can cover areas of up to 800 square feet. Mid-range models like the Dyson Pure Cool are suitable for open concept spaces around 350 square feet.
Their higher airflow capacity and air projection reach make them effective for living rooms and combined kitchen-dining areas.
- Shark Air Purifier Coverage
Shark air purifiers work best for small rooms of around 200 square feet. They deliver purified air more locally via the front grille. While they may lose out to Dyson for large living spaces, Shark air purifiers are perfect for offices, bedrooms, and nurseries. Their lower fan power also makes them quieter than Dyson models if noise is a concern.
So Dyson air purifiers edge ahead for whole-home coverage, but Shark models work very effectively for targeting specific rooms.
Cost Of Ownership
Air purifiers are often an investment purchase, so it’s key to consider long term costs too. Dyson air purifiers cater more as luxury aspirational purchases, while Shark offers reliable performance for less.
- Dyson Air Purifier Prices
As a premium brand, Dyson air purifiers sit at the higher end of the market with most models priced between $400 to $800.
Their latest units with intelligent sensors and app connectivity can set you back a cool $799.95 or more.
However, the steep price tags do get you best-in-class technology and coverage.
Moreover, with their seamless designs and minimal aesthetic, Dyson appliances like air purifiers can work as subtle statement décor pieces.
- Shark Air Purifier Prices
Shark air purifiers provide a solid mid-market alternative at very reasonable price points between $100 to $500. Even their highest spec model with WiFi capability comes in at an affordable $499.99.
So while Shark units may lack some of Dyson’s proprietary extras, they get all the functionality right at a fraction of the price tag. Their replaceable filters and antimicrobial treatments also optimize longevity and keep maintenance costs low.
Maintenance Requirements
To keep your air purifier running in tip-top shape, regular maintenance is essential. This usually involves cleaning the exterior, checking the filters and replacing consumable parts when required.
- Dyson Air Purifier Maintenance
Dyson air purifiers require replacing their combined HEPA and activated charcoal cartridge filter about once a year based on usage. Their higher airflow and room capacity does put greater demands on the filter. Expect to spend $70 or more on new cartridges.
Other than the yearly filter change, keeping a Dyson air purifier well-maintained takes minimal effort. Wiping the exterior with a soft damp lint-free cloth every few weeks suffices to prevent dust buildup.
- Shark Air Purifier Maintenance
Most Shark air purifiers feature dual HEPA and activated charcoal filters that are designed to last 6-12 months with average use before requiring a swap. Replacement filters cost between $30 to $50.
The exterior needs occasional wipe downs just like any air purifier. One advantage of Shark models is that their detachable grille provides easy access to the filters when you need to vacuum or replace them.
So Dyson air purifiers have pricier filters that may need more frequent changes. But Shark air purifiers provide a bit more convenience for accessing and maintaining filters yourself.
Comparison of Warranties
The warranty terms reflect the higher or lower price points for these brands. Dyson offers strong coverage periods given their air purifiers are premium investments. Shark warranties are adequate but can’t match Dyson for lengthy coverage.
- Dyson Air Purifier Warranty
All new Dyson air purifiers come backed by a generous 2 year limited parts & labor warranty. Registering your product online with Dyson extends the coverage further to 5 years. Such a lengthy warranty really adds value given the high purchase cost.
- Shark Air Purifier Warranty
Shark air purifiers come with a 1 year limited warranty. Parts are covered, but you will need to pay for any labor charges yourself. This reflects their lower price positioning in the market. Extra warranty coverage can be purchased via retailers too.
So Dyson’s long 5 year coverage offers excellent peace of mind. But Shark’s warranty suffices given most issues arise early on for air purifiers.
Noise Levels Comparison
For a relaxing home environment, lower noise from an air purifier is desirable. But stronger airflow power needed for larger rooms or faster purification does mean more hum or fan noise.
- Dyson Air Purifier Noise
Dyson air purifiers with their bladeless designs generate minimal mechanical noise. Even at higher fan speeds the air projection amplifier causes more of a robust yet smooth ‘whoosh’ sound rather than a whirring racket. Expect noise levels around 50db on lower power settings.
- Shark Air Purifier Noise
Shark air purifiers emit more of a muffled hum rather than harsh fan noise even when running flat out. They reach around 50db on the lowest fan speed setting, but can ramp up to 60db on max speed for a strong breeze. This is manageable for most people, though light sleepers may notice the steady hum.
So Dyson models have the edge for quieter operation, but Shark air purifiers by no means sound shrill or deafening unless you are highly noise-sensitive.
Aesthetics & Ambiance Comparison
An air purifier for your living spaces needs to enhance – not diminish – your carefully curated ambiance and aesthetics through poor design. Dyson models clearly lead in blending seamlessly into modern luxe environments with their elegant forms. But Shark air purifiers take up less visual space at least.
- Sleek Dyson Style
With their sophisticated cylindrical silhouettes and metallic flourishes, Dyson air purifiers epitomize contemporary consumer tech styling.
The way they project purified air without visible blades create an ambient, almost ‘magical’ effect too.
Place one strategically in an open-plan living zone or by the bedroom nook and it becomes a subtle style focal point rather than an eyesore.
For design-conscious buyers, Dyson is tough to beat.
- Understated Shark Style
Shark air purifiers fall into the category of plain yet inoffensive appliances.
While nowhere near as visually arresting as Dyson units, their neutral colors and simple box-with-grille shaping won’t detract from room décor either.
Their compact sizing also makes Shark models easier to tuck away out of sight too. So form definitely takes a backseat to function for Shark air purifiers when it comes to aesthetics. But they fade more discretely into backgrounds.
Filtration Capacity Over Time
An air purifier’s filtration effectiveness can drop over years of accumulating dirt and particles on the filters. This reduces airflow and limits purification capabilities.
Both brands advise replacing filters about once a year under average usage conditions to maintain performance. However, Dyson filters prove slightly harder to keep in peak condition over longer periods.
- Dyson Filtration Durability
The tightly packed folded filters inside Dyson air purifiers capture particles extremely efficiently. However the dense filtration layers within the cartridge can get matted down by excessive dirt, smoke or pet hair. If you don’t replace it annually, the suction power drops.
Keen Dyson owners recommend using automatic mode and keeping usage under 8 hours daily. This prevents overburdening the machine to preserve filtration capacity in the long run. It’s also smart to schedule seasonal filter swaps before high pollution periods.
- Shark Filtration Durability
Shark air purifiers tend to maintain their stated filtration effectiveness levels for longer between recommended filter changes. Even after a year of accumulated dander, dust and smoke residues, there may not be a hugely noticeable reduction in airflow or particle capture rates.
The more spaced out filter layers avoid overly compacted clumping while the antimicrobial coating curbs mold risks. That said, sticking to the standard filter replacement schedule optimizes hygiene and performance. But Shark filters hold up better over time.
Summary – Key Differences
Air Purification Technology
- Dyson features air projection and intelligent auto modes
- Shark focuses on core HEPA and carbon filtration
Design & Features
- Dyson has modern and minimalist room appeal
- Shark maximizes functionality in a compact form
Room Size Coverage
- Dyson caters for larger open spaces
- Shark better suits smaller tight spaces
Costs & Warranties
- Dyson costs more but has excellent 5 year cover
- Shark is far cheaper with 1 year basic warranty
Both brands effectively clean indoor air with proprietary technologies tailored for different room sizes. Dyson leads outright performance, intelligence and style while Shark prioritizes value and simplicity. Now weighing up these factors, which model best matches your needs?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Dyson air purifiers consistently rank among the top-rated models in terms of performance, design and reliability. They feature prominently on expert review sites and consumer reports as high-end best-in-class options.
For an all-round blend of strong purification capacities, energy-efficiency, durability and usability – the Dyson Pure Cool Cryptomic tops experts’ air purifier recommendations. It removes 99.97% of pollutants down to microscopic particles while intelligently maximizing airflow.
Dyson air purifiers edge out much of the competition through class-leading whole room purification via their patented Air Multiplier and auto-sensing technologies. They also boast minimalist modern aesthetics that blend in beautifully with contemporary home decors.
When benchmarked against brands like Shark, Levoit, Blueair or Coway, Dyson air purifiers consistently come up top for their combination of high-performance filtration, automated smart features and pioneering designs. The premium pricing gets you the best in the market.
Closing Remarks
Hopefully this detailed comparison of Dyson versus Shark air purifiers gives you a clearer picture of their respective strengths and ideal usage scenarios. Both provide benefits – Dyson for whole home coverage and style, Shark for targeted purification and value.
Assess your priorities to pick the best fit.