Which is better for pet hair?

Both have self-cleaning brushrolls and a HairPro pet power brush, so hair wrap is limited on either. The Stratos lists pet hair pickup as a top use case and has far more owner ratings behind it.

Is the PowerDetect Transformer worth the extra $85?

Only if you value automatic suction and brushroll adjustment, the stick and handheld modes, and the auto-empty base. If you just want strong suction and HEPA filtration, the Stratos does that for less.

Which is better on carpet?

The Stratos is built for carpet and hard floors with its DuoClean PowerFins nozzle and three suction levels. The Transformer's DuoClean Detect adjusts itself to the floor type, which helps if you move between surfaces often.

Which is easier on stairs?

Neither is light: 17.2 lbs for the Stratos and 18 lbs for the Transformer. The Transformer's handheld mode removes the bulk for stairs and above-floor work.

Do both have HEPA filtration?

Yes. The Stratos is HEPA certified with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal that traps 99.9% of dust and allergens. The Transformer lists a HEPA filter.

Which has the longer cord?

The Stratos has a 30-foot cord. Shark does not list a cord length for the Transformer.

Shark Stratos Upright Vacuum with DuoClean PowerFins vs Shark Powerdetect Transformer Upright Vacuum with DuoClean Detect, Reveal Technology and Self-Cleaning Brushroll

Both are corded Shark uprights with HEPA filtration and self-cleaning brushrolls. The Stratos is the proven pick at $264.99 (as of October 28), with a 4.4 rating from 2,300 ratings and a 30-foot cord. The PowerDetect Transformer costs $349.99 (as of October 28) and adds auto dirt and floor detection, a 3-in-1 transformer design and an auto-empty base, but its 4.9 rating rests on just 38 ratings. Buy the Stratos unless you want the detection features and auto-empty base enough to pay about $85 more.

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