Shark's New Transformer Vacuum Breaks Down Into Three Different Vacuums

I love cordless vacuums, and I don't just say that because I'm one of CNET's primary testers of the category. I say it because switching from corded vacuums to cordless vacuums was a big quality-of-life upgrade, thanks to the ease of use and maneuverability around my apartment. The downside is that cordless vacuums don't usually match the suction power and cleaning capabilities of upright or canister models. 

Shark's PowerDetect Transformer 3-in-1 is the company's attempt to address this trade-off without forcing you to buy multiple vacuums.

"The upright vacuum has looked and worked the same way for decades," said Petra Oman, vice president of marketing at SharkNinja, in a press statement. "We saw an opportunity to rethink the category by eliminating the bulky hose and creating a system that adapts to the way people actually clean. Transformer delivers the deep-cleaning performance consumers expect from an upright, with the flexibility and reach needed to clean everything from floors and carpets to stairs, furniture, ceilings and the car."

The main upright dustbin is detachable when you want to use it as a slimmer cordless vac. 

Shark

As the name suggests, the PowerDetect Transformer is three vacuums in one. It's a full-size upright vacuum that's intended for deep cleaning carpets and hardwood floors with the strongest suction. Shark says you can remove the main canister with one click, and it'll turn into a slim stick vacuum for regular, lightweight cleaning, getting under furniture and into other tight spots. One more click turns it into a handheld vacuum, making it easier to clean stairs, upholstery, corners and cars. 

In terms of specs, the Transformer will have key features from Shark's most popular models, including LED lighting to help you find debris and automatic detection of dirt levels, flooring types, edges and movement to automatically adjust suction and cleaning performance. It features anti-tangle brushrolls, odor-neutralizing tech like the Shark Stratos and HEPA filtration. It'll also come with an auto-emptying system that empties the debris into the main dustbin when the handheld clicks back into place. 

I haven't had a chance to go hands-on with this vacuum yet, and I'm not entirely sure how the system breaks down. I'll be testing it both at home and at CNET's Louisville lab. The most interesting question will be whether the PowerDetect Transformer can truly deliver the cleaning performance of an upright vacuum without compromising elsewhere. 

The Transformer has all the key features we've liked from the most popular Shark models.

Shark

Price and availability 

The Shark PowerDetect Transformer 3-in-1 will be available on SharkNinja and TikTok Shop for $529. It'll also come to Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, Target, Costco and Sam's Club.