Shark APEX AX912 vs AX952 – What is the difference?
Shark APEX 912/AX912 and 952/AX952 models (as well as the 951/AX951) belongs to the same series called Shark APEX Duoclean, which is one of the most advanced series of Shark brand. This series features 3 core technologies, namely Duoclean technology, Active glide technology, noise reduction technology.
These are both older models, but sometimes you can still find them on line for a good price. However, unless you get a really good deal, we recommend going for one of the newer model Shark upright vacuums.
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Performance of Shark APEX series
Before comparing these two models, let’s have a look at how Shark APEX Duoclean cleans the floors, in reality, to see whether it is a good buy or not.
Key features of Shark APEX Duoclean
Shark APEX Duocleans series (includes AX912, AX950, AX951, AX952) features Shark most advanced technologies in brush bar design, filtration system and ergonomic value.
- APEX technology – the active gliding wheels help the vacuum move smoothly
- Duoclean technology – 2 rollers on 1 cleaner head to engage and clean fine dust better.
- Noise reduction technology – keep the vacuum noise under 70 dB.
- Anti-allergen sealed system + HEPA filter – release clean air only
- Powered Lift-away canister – Clean under furniture without losing suction
- Fingertip control, LED lights, 5-7 years warranty condition….
Differences between Shark APEX 912 and AX952
The main difference is the weight and dust bin capacity. Shark APEX AX952 is a full-size model with a dust bin of 1.5 dry quarts, it weights 16 lbs.
On the other hand, Shark APEX AX912 is a compact model with a dust bin of 0.9 dry quarts, and its weight is 14.5 lbs.
Besides this key difference, both models have a different tool set. Specifically,
Shark APEX 952 accessories
- On-Board Deep Cleaning Motorized Pet Tool
- Anti-Allergen Dust Brush
- Pet Multi-Tool
- Duster Crevice
- Accessory Bag
Shark APEX 912 accessories
- MultiFLEX Under-Appliance Wand
- Anti-Allergen Dust Brush
- Pet Multi-Tool
- Duster Crevice
Recently, Shark APEX has updated a newer model with self-hair removing technology, called Shark APEX Duoclean with Zero-M, model AZ1002, AZ1002.
Instead of removing the wrapping hair by hands, now you can get rid of that boring job because the Zero-M technology will constantly remove the hair, keeping the brush head cleaner.
How to decide between Shark APEX AX912 vs AX952
If you are seeking for an upright vacuum cleaner with full features, low noise, efficient performance, Shark APEX series can definitely be one of your consideration lists.
Shark APEX AX912 is lighter (14.5 lbs) and although the dust bin size is 0.9 dry quarts, it is still big enough for vacuuming the whole apartment before emptying the dust cup.
Shark APEX AX952 has a bigger dust bin and it has a motorized pet tool, which is a better option if you have dogs, cats, a lot of hair shredding daily on sofa, floor.
But ultimately, as we said at the start, unless you find a really good sale on one of these older Shark vacuums, in our opinion you would be better off going for something newer. Not only will it be easier to get replacement parts, but you will also get the benefit of improvements in technology.