Hoover SmartWash+ Carpet Cleaner vs Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker

The Hoover SmartWash+ is the easier machine to live with: push forward to wash, pull back to dry, and Auto Mix removes the measuring and trigger work. The Shark CarpetXpert with StainStriker is the stronger stain fighter, with high-pressure spray, a high-speed brushroll and two formulas that activate on contact, plus a detachable handset for stairs and upholstery. Both weigh about 18 to 19 lbs and are upright corded machines, so neither is a light carry. Owners of the Hoover praise the simplicity and suction but report a broken cover and spray leaking from the base; the Shark's 4.7 rating across 834 ratings points to steadier satisfaction.

• Choose the Hoover SmartWash+ if you want the simplest possible deep clean on large carpet areas and don't want to squeeze a trigger or mix solution.
• Choose the Shark CarpetXpert if tough stains, pet messes and above-floor cleaning with a detachable handset matter more to you than push-button simplicity.