Shark WV200 Vs. WV201 – Which Handheld Vacuum Is Best?

If you’re in the market for a handheld vacuum, Shark makes some of the most popular models on the market. Two of their top sellers are the Shark WV200 and WV201. But what’s the difference between these two vacuums, and which one is right for you?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the Shark WV200 and WV201 on important factors like price, features, performance, and more. We’ll also provide pros and cons for each model. Read on to find out which Shark hand vac suits your cleaning needs.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Shark WV200	Shark WV201
Weight	1.4 lbs	1.4 lbs
Battery Runtime	15 mins	16 mins
Charging Time	4 hours	4 hours
Dust Cup Capacity	0.08 quarts	0.08 quarts
Accessories Included	Crevice tool, dusting brush	Crevice tool, dusting brush
Suction Power	Good for quick pickups	Good for quick pickups
Price	Lower	Slightly higher

Shark WV200 Overview

The Shark WV200 is a bagless hand vacuum that offers strong suction power in a slender, lightweight design. 

Here are some key specs and features of the WV200:

• Weight: 1.4 lbs
• Dimensions: 3.7 x 5.7 x 7.9 inches
• Cordless operation with included charger
• Car detail kit, stretch hose, and brush accessories included
• Large capacity 0.08 quart dust cup
• Charges in under 4 hours for up to 15 minutes of runtime

Some pros of the Shark WV200 include:

• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Good suction power for quick pickups
• Hose stretches up to 3 feet for hard to reach areas
• Crevice tool accesses tight spaces like couches

Some possible cons to consider:

• Short 15 minute runtime
• Small dust bin needs frequent emptying for big jobs
• Battery takes a while to recharge

Overall, the WV200 is a solid budget-friendly choice if you need a convenient hand vac for small messes and quick jobs. But the short battery life may be limiting for whole home use.

Shark WV201 Overview

Moving up a step, the Shark WV201 has many of the same design features as the WV200 but with improved battery life.

Here are the key specs:

• Weight: 1.4 lbs
• Dimensions: 3.7 x 5.7 x 7.9 inches
• Cordless with included charger
• Crevice tool, brush, stretch hose included
• 0.08 quart dust cup capacity
• Up to 16 minutes of runtime per charge

Some pros of the WV201:

• Light and maneuverable
• Good suction for dry debris pick up
• Hose reaches tight spaces like couches and stairs
• Slightly longer 16 minute runtime
• Easy to empty dust cup

Potential downsides to note:

• Still a relatively short battery life
• Small dust bin needs frequent emptying
• Charging takes up to 4 hours

The WV201 improves on the WV200 with a bit more runtime. But the battery life is still limiting for large whole home jobs.

Comparing Key Features And Performance

Now let’s compare some of the most important factors between the Shark WV200 and WV201 models:

• Suction Power

The suction power is similar between both models. Owners report that they can pick up dust, dirt, pet hair, and small debris without issues. Neither model has the same ultra-strong suction of a full size corded vacuum. But they work well for quick cleanups.

• Battery Life

The WV200 runs for about 15 minutes on a full 4 hour charge. The WV201 improves this slightly to 16 minutes of runtime. Both batteries take roughly 4 hours to recharge fully.

• Dust Cup Size

The dust cups on both models are the same small 0.08 quarts. You’ll likely need to empty after each room or two when vacuuming. The cups are easy to remove and empty as needed.

• Weight

These are two of the lightest hand vacs from Shark. The WV200 and WV201 both weigh in at just 1.4 pounds. They are designed to be lightweight and easy to carry around the home.

• Accessories

Both vacuums come with a 12 inch crevice tool and dusting brush. The stretch hose is useful for accessing hard to reach spots and also connects the accessories. No other tools or attachments are included.

• Filtration

They have similar filtration systems with washable foam filters. There’s no HEPA filtration, but the foam traps most dust and allergens inside the vacuum.

• Cordless Use

These vacuums run off rechargeable lithium ion batteries. They provide freedom to move around without a cord getting in the way. Just recharge as needed between uses.

• Warranty

Shark covers both models with a limited 1 year warranty. This protects against defects in materials and workmanship.

Also Read: Differences Between Shark NV352 And NV356.

Which Should You Buy?

Now for the big question – comparing the Shark WV200 and WV201, which one comes out as the better buy?

For quick pickups and tight spaces, you can’t go wrong with either model. But here are some key factors to help decide:

• The WV201 has a slight edge for battery life at 16 minutes VS. 15 minutes for the WV200. But it’s only one extra minute.
• The dust cups are equally small at 0.08 quarts. Frequent emptying is needed for larger jobs.
• Accessories are the same for both vacuums. You get a crevice tool and brush.
• Suction power, weight, and filtration are nearly equal. Performance is similar.
• Price is usually $20-$30 higher for the WV201. The WV200 offers better value.

Overall, the Shark WV200 comes out as the winner for shoppers on a budget. It delivers nearly identical performance to the WV201 but costs less.

The minor battery boost isn’t worth the extra money for the WV201. Go with the WV200 if you want great value on a convenient, lightweight hand vac. It tackles quick cleanups around the home or car without breaking the bank.

Also Read: Is Shark Navigator NV360 Better Than NV752?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Also Read: Is Tineco A11 Tango Bettter Than Hero?

Summary

For lightweight handheld performance, Shark’s WV200 and WV201 models are both great options. The WV200 delivers excellent value and nearly identical specs to the WV201.

Unless you really need that extra minute of runtime, we recommend saving money with the wallet-friendly WV200. It has everything you need for quick cleanups around the home or car.