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Shark Rocket Corded Vacuum Review

Tested using Methodology v1.3
Review updated Feb 26, 2024 at 04:31 pm
Latest change: Test bench update Jun 12, 2024 at 02:53 pm
Shark Rocket Corded Picture
7.2
Bare Floor
6.6
Low-Pile Carpet
6.0
High-Pile Carpet
6.6
Pets
7.1
Stairs
6.6
Cars
3.9
Workshop

The Shark Rocket Corded is an entry-level corded stick vacuum. Compared to pricier models like the Shark APEX UpLight or newer alternatives like the Shark Stratos UltraLight, it's pretty bare-bones in overall design, with relatively few convenience features, a fairly rudimentary single-roller floorhead, and a somewhat cheap-feeling plastic construction. That said, it's highly affordable and very maneuverable.

Our Verdict

7.2 Bare Floor

The Shark Rocket is very good for use on bare floors. It does an outstanding job of cleaning all kinds of debris. It's reasonably easy to maintain and has few recurring costs, which is nice. Unfortunately, it has sub-par build quality, with plastic elements that feel a little fragile.

Pros
  • Outstanding bare floor performance.
  • Good maneuverability.
  • Virtually no recurring costs.
Cons
  • Mediocre build quality.
6.6 Low-Pile Carpet

The Shark Rocket is very good for low-pile carpet use. It does a great job of tackling pet hair as well as fine and large debris. However, smaller material can easily get caught in its floorhead's wheels, making it difficult to roll around smoothly. On the upside, its overall maneuverability is good, and the vacuum has few recurring costs.

Pros
  • Good maneuverability.
  • Virtually no recurring costs.
Cons
  • Mediocre build quality.
6.0 High-Pile Carpet

The Shark Rocket is decent for use on high-pile carpets. It has a dedicated setting for high-pile carpets, though this doesn't change its height, so it can still get stuck on plusher rugs. Still, it does a decent job of handling pet hair and larger debris, although it struggles to suck up finer debris. That said, it's still reasonably easy to maintain and doesn't have many recurring costs.

Pros
  • Good maneuverability.
  • Virtually no recurring costs.
  • Dedicated high-pile setting.
Cons
  • Mediocre build quality.
  • Struggles a bit more with small debris.
  • No brushroll height adjustment.
6.6 Pets

The Shark Rocket is decent for handling pet hair. It does an alright job of sucking up pet hair on low-pile carpets. However, it does a better job on high-pile carpets and bare floors. It also has an indicator light to warn you when your brush head becomes clogged, which can be handy when you have a heavily shedding pet. It doesn't have a pet grooming brush, though, and there's no HEPA filter to seal in allergens.

Pros
  • Virtually no recurring costs.
  • Is effective in clearing pet hair from most surfaces.
Cons
  • Mediocre build quality.
  • No HEPA filter.
7.1 Stairs

The Shark Rocket is decent for use on stairs. This vacuum is portable, and you can quickly reconfigure it as a handheld vacuum. It also has outstanding performance on bare floors, which is great if you have hardwood stairs. On the downside, its power cord is somewhat short, making it challenging to clean taller staircases.

Pros
  • Can configure it into handheld vacuum.
Cons
  • Limited cord range.
6.6 Cars

The Shark Rocket is okay for cleaning cars. The HV302 variant comes with a Home & Car Detail kit to clean tight spots and use it as a handheld vacuum by detaching the extension wand. It has great performance on low-pile carpets, as it can handle most types of debris and is lightweight. However, its power cord is short, so you'll probably need an extension cord to reach every part of your car's interior.

Pros
  • Can configure it into handheld vacuum.
Cons
  • Limited cord range.
3.9 Workshop

The Shark Rocket is poor for workshop cleaning, though that isn't its intended use. It can't deal with liquid spills, and heavy-duty debris like wood or metal shavings could damage its internals.

Pros
  • Outstanding bare floor performance.
Cons
  • Mediocre build quality.
  • Can't use it for liquid spills.
  • 7.2 Bare Floor
  • 6.6 Low-Pile Carpet
  • 6.0 High-Pile Carpet
  • 6.6 Pets
  • 7.1 Stairs
  • 6.6 Cars
  • 3.9 Workshop
  1. Updated Jun 12, 2024: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.3. We've overhauled our floor performance tests and added new 'Hard Floor Pick-Up,' 'High-Pile Carpet Pick-Up,' 'Low-Pile Carpet Pick-Up,' and 'Pet-Hair Pick-Up' tests. You can see the full changelog here.
  2. Updated Feb 26, 2024: We've made minor in-text adjustments to further clarify product details.
  3. Updated Dec 18, 2023: We've added text to this review for the new tests added in Test Bench 1.2.
  4. Updated Nov 07, 2023: We've converted this review to Test Bench 1.2. This update builds on our previous 'Suction' test with a new 'Airflow' test that more accurately measures a vacuum's ability to generate air movement. If you'd like to see an in-depth look at the reasoning and methodology behind this change, you can see our full changelog here..
  5. Updated May 29, 2023: Added link to the Shark Pet/Rocket Pro Cordless in the 'Range' section to provide a similarly-performing cordless alternative.
  6. Updated Feb 20, 2023: We've updated the text in the review to account for the new tests and scoring methodology in Vacuum Test Bench 1.0 and Vacuum Test Bench 1.1. We've also changed the product name to Shark Rocket Corded in order for the review to encompass all model variants.
  7. Updated Feb 10, 2023: Added a link to the Shark Stratos UltraLight in the 'Range' section to provide an alternative with a longer power cord.
  8. Updated Nov 08, 2022: This vacuum's suction force has been retested with a more accurate manometer. The test results for the 'Maximum Suction' and 'Normal Suction' fields have been updated. All relevant scores and text have been updated.
  9. Updated Aug 03, 2022: Converted to Test Bench 1.1.
  10. Updated Mar 31, 2022: Converted to Test Bench 1.0.
  11. Updated Jul 06, 2020: Updated the scoring for build quality.
  12. Updated Jul 06, 2020: Review published.

Differences Between Sizes And Variants

The Shark Rocket Corded, sometimes referred to as the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light, is available in a few different models.

Model Number Color Included Brushes and Tools Notes
HV300/HV300C Blue Wide upholstery tool, crevice tool, soft-bristle dusting brush HV300C is the Canadian designation for this model
HV301 Orange Upholstery tool/Hard bristle brush, crevice tool  
HV302 Orange Upholstery tool/Hard bristle brush, crevice tool, Home & Car Detail Kit  
CS110/CS110GN Red, Green Crevice tool CS110GN is exclusive to Amazon

Let us know in the discussions if you encounter another variant of this vacuum.

Compared To Other Vacuums

The Shark Rocket Corded is a corded stick/handheld vacuum. It has a lightweight, easy-to-use design and has excellent performance on bare floors. However, its build quality is unimpressive compared to the other vacuums in Shark's lineup, especially newer models like the Shark Stratos UltraLight, and is lacking in terms of convenience features.

If you're shopping for an alternative, take a look at our list of recommendations for the best corded vacuums, the best bagless vacuums, and the best vacuums for tile floors.

Shark APEX Upright

The Shark APEX Upright and the Shark Rocket Corded are similarly performing vacuums. The APEX Upright feels slightly better built, it has a bigger dirt compartment, and it comes with a turbo brush for helping you clean fabric-covered furniture. On the other hand, the Rocket Corded weighs less, it's easier to maintain, and it has fewer recurring costs. However, its cable is a little bit shorter than the APEX Upright.

Dyson V11

The Dyson V11 is a better overall vacuum than the Shark Rocket Corded. The Dyson stores easier, has a bigger dirt compartment, and is cordless, so you can go anywhere with it. It can also adjust its power level to better suit the mess, and it comes with several tools that help to clean more specific objects like blinds, which is nice. On the other hand, the Shark is corded, so you never have to worry about running out of battery life or recharging it.

Shark Rocket Pet Pro

Both the Shark Rocket Pet Pro and Shark Rocket Corded vacuums have advantages; one may suit you better than the other, depending on your needs. The Pet Pro is a cordless stick vacuum that allows you to clean far away from any electrical outlets. It's also better built, easier to store, and more maneuverable, and it delivers slightly better performance on all surface types. Meanwhile, the Corded is a corded vacuum with a virtually indefinite runtime and practically no recurring costs. There are also fewer parts that need regular cleaning.

Dyson V8

The Dyson V8 is a better stick/handheld vacuum for cleaning low- and high-pile carpets than the Shark Rocket Corded. The Dyson has a HEPA filter, is easier to store, and, most importantly, is cordless, so its range is limited only by the remaining charge. You can also adjust its power level, which is nice. However, the Shark performs better on bare floors, and it's easier to maintain.

Shark Stratos UltraLight

The Shark Stratos UltraLight is better than the Shark Rocket Corded. The Stratos feels sturdier, takes up less room when not in use, is fitted with an onboard HEPA filter, has a longer range, and has a more powerful suction motor, resulting in better performance on most surfaces. However, the Rocket is a little lighter.

Shark Vertex UltraLight Corded

The Shark Vertex UltraLight Corded and Shark Rocket Corded have different advantages, so depending on your needs, one might suit you better than the other. The Vertex feels better built, has a longer overall range, and cleans better on high-pile carpet. It also deals more effectively with pet hair on all surface types, but the Rocket does a better overall job on bare floors and low-pile carpets. The Rocket is also a little bit easier to maintain.

Shark APEX UpLight

The Shark APEX UpLight is better overall than the Shark Rocket Corded. They both have similar performance, although the APEX is better on low-pile carpets. It also has a better build quality, a bigger dirt compartment, and a longer range. The Rocket, instead, is easier to maintain and lighter to hold.

Shark ION F80 Cord-Free MultiFLEX

The Shark ION F80 Cord-Free MultiFLEX is a better overall vacuum than the Shark Rocket Corded. As a cordless vacuum, the ION F80 has an unlimited range, and it's only just a bit heavier than the Rocket. It also feels slightly better built, and there are even variants of this vacuum with more included tools, which is nice too. However, you'll need to replace its post-motor filter every six months. The Rocket, on the other hand, has a better performance on low-pile carpets, especially with large debris, and its dirt compartment is slightly larger. 

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Test Results

perceptual testing image
Design
6.0
Design
Build Quality
Vacuum Type
Stick/Handheld

Build quality is mediocre. While the vacuum itself doesn't flex or creak while in use, the plastic used in its construction feels cheap. It's especially problematic since this vacuum doesn't stay upright on its own and is prone to falling over when you try to lean it on something. The wheels under the main head also don't always roll very smoothly. Fortunately, an indicator light lets you know if there's a blockage in the brush head or if the vacuum is overheating. If you want a corded stick/handheld vacuum that feels better built, consider the Shark Vertex UltraLight Corded.

6.0
Design
User Maintenance

This vacuum has a couple of parts that need periodic cleaning.

  • Dirt compartment: The dirt compartment is quite small, so it needs frequent emptying, but it's not much of a hassle. The latch that opens the dirt compartment can be a bit tricky to access when the vacuum is upright in stick mode, though.
  • Brushroll: You can't remove the brushroll, which makes cleaning it a bit more difficult. You can remove the brush guard underneath the head by unscrewing it with a flathead screwdriver or a coin and then attempt to remove any tangled hair.
  • Pre-motor filters: The foam and felt pre-motor filters are very easy to access and wash from the top of the vacuum. Shark suggests you wash both pre-motor filters once a month. However, depending on your usage, they may need to be cleaned more frequently.
  • Post-motor filter: The post-motor filter is located just below the vacuum's handle. The manufacturer recommends cleaning it once yearly, though it appears to dirty considerably faster than the pre-motor filters.

10
Design
Recurring Cost
Bag Part Number No bag
Filter Part Number XFFV300
HEPA Filter Part Number No HEPA Filter

This vacuum incurs virtually no recurring costs. As per the manufacturer, the filters will last the vacuum's lifetime. However, you can buy a full replacement set of filters to maintain performance and extend the lifespan of the vacuum.

5.9
Design
Storing
Height
35.83" (91.0 cm)
Width
10.24" (26.0 cm)
Depth
11.42" (29.0 cm)
Cord Storing
Manual
On-Board Tool Storage
No
Vacuum Rack/Station
No

This vacuum is a little tricky to store. To keep the vacuum upright, you'll have to detach the main compartment from the wand and rest it on the vacuum head. This helps keep it from tipping over, but it's not very intuitive, and the vacuum still takes up quite a bit of space. You also can't store any of the included brushes or tools on the vacuum, but it does come with a bag for carrying around its accessories.

7.0
Design
Dirt Compartment
Bagless
Yes
Volume
0.10 gal (0.40 L)
Full Indicator
Yes
Bag Included
No Bag Needed

The dirt compartment is acceptable. It's small, so it needs emptying fairly often. Thankfully, it's easy to see through the clear plastic, and there's a clearly marked max fill line to let you know when you need to empty it.

Design
In The Box

  • Shark Rocket Corded vacuum
  • Main wand
  • Vacuum head
  • Upholstery tool and dusting brush
  • Under-appliance wand
  • Crevice tool
  • User guide and manual

The HV302 variant of this vacuum comes with all of the above components, along with:

  • Narrow hose
  • 3x Small crevice tools
  • 2x Detailing brushes
  • 2x Detailing brush nozzle adapters
  • Accessory carrying bag

6.8
Design
Range
Cordless
No
Cord Length
25.03 ft (7.6 m)
Hose Length
2.49 ft (0.76 m)
Minimum Wand Length
1.25 ft (0.38 m)
Maximum Wand Length
3.44 ft (1.05 m)
Total Range
28.48 ft (8.68 m)

The range is somewhat short. The cord extends up to just over 25 feet, which likely isn't long enough for you to go from room to room without swapping outlets. You could consider the Shark Stratos UltraLight if you want a corded stick vacuum with a longer range. Alternatively, if you don't want to worry about staying close to a power outlet, the Shark Pet/Rocket Pro Cordless is a good option that delivers similar overall performance in a cordless package.

The hose included in the detail kit also only has a reach of 2.5 feet, which may not be enough when trying to access hard-to-reach spots in your home or car.

7.8
Design
Portability
Total Weight
8.11 lbs (3.68 kg)
Weight In Hand
3.42 lbs (1.55 kg)
Carrying handle
Yes

This vacuum is quite portable. It's heavier than many cordless stick vacuums but still weighs less than other corded stick vacuums like the Shark APEX UpLight. However, you may want to consider the upright/handheld BISSELL Featherweight Stick if you want something lighter.

0
Design
Battery
Minimum Battery Life
N/A
Maximum Battery Life
N/A
Recharge Time
N/A
Recharge Dock
No
Battery Life Indicator
No
Removable Batteries
No

This is a corded vacuum without a battery.

Design
Quality Of Life Features
Rotating Head
Yes
Power Adjustment
Yes
Self-Propelled
No
Headlights
No
Easy On/Off
Yes
Head Surface Type Adjustment
None

This vacuum has a few additional features to make it easier to use. While you can't adjust the vacuum's power level, you can toggle between two surface type settings manually: setting 'I' is for bare floor and area rugs, while setting 'II' is for high-pile carpets. This only changes the brushroll speed, though, not its height.

Design
Tools And Brushes
Brushroll
Yes
Brushroll On/Off
No
Removable Brushroll
No
Turbo Brush
No
Crevice Tool
Yes
Upholstery Tool
Yes
Soft Bristle Brush
No
Hard Bristle Brush
Yes
Extension Wand
Yes
Ceiling Fan Tool
No
Pet Grooming Tool
No

This vacuum comes with several different tools, brushes, and accessories. There's a hard-bristle brush that clips onto the upholstery tool. The main crevice tool and the under-appliance wand can be used directly with the vacuum or attached to the main wand.

Note: The "Home & Car Detail Kit" of the HV302 model we tested includes a small hose, a miniature crevice tool, and a handful of differently-shaped adapters. If you lose or damage one of these parts, then some of the detailing accessories are no longer usable.

Design
Alternative Configuration
Blower Mode
No

You can use the Shark Rocket Corded as a handheld vacuum by detaching the wand.

Performance
7.5
Performance
Hard Floor Pick-Up
5.0
Performance
High-Pile Carpet Pick-Up
5.0
Performance
Low-Pile Carpet Pick-Up
7.0
Performance
Pet-Hair Pick-Up
1.7
Performance
Suction
Maximum Hose Suction
54.6 inHâ‚‚O (13.59 kPa)
Maximum Head Suction
0.6 inHâ‚‚O (0.15 kPa)
Normal Head Suction
0.4 inHâ‚‚O (0.10 kPa)
Setting Used For Normal "I. Bare Floor, Area Rugs"
Hose Diameter
1.6" (4.0 cm)

Real-world suction performance is poor. This vacuum's suction inlet is positioned too high above the ground to get a tight seal.

7.0
Performance
Airflow
Maximum Hose Airflow
54.4 CFM (1.5 m³/min)

This vacuum has decent airflow performance, though it might not offer the same power level as a corded upright like the Shark Rotator Lift-Away ADV. Still, it's similar to mid-range cordless models like the Dyson V8 in its ability to generate air movement. As such, it won't have too much trouble dealing with heavy debris.

8.1
Performance
Noise
Bare Floor
74.9 dBA
Low-Pile Carpet
75.3 dBA

This vacuum is a little on the louder end of the scale. It makes more noise than a comparably priced cordless model like the JASHEN V16; that being said, it won't be too disruptive for people nearby if you're vacuuming a room away.

7.5
Performance
Maneuverability

This vacuum has good maneuverability. The under-appliance wand makes cleaning underneath couches and low tables a breeze—you don't have to crouch, so you can maintain full mobility even when cleaning under very large pieces of furniture. The upholstery tool is also easy to use and maneuver around. However, this vacuum tends to suck up rug tassels due to the lack of height adjustment. The main head also can't make very sharp turns either, meaning you need to watch out for obstructions like chair or table legs and coat racks.

8.5
Performance
Pet Hair Furniture Performance
Sofa Pickup Post Test

This vacuum does an excellent job of cleaning pet hair on furniture. Even when compared to other vacuums that come with a turbo brush attachment like the Dyson V8, the Shark's simple pure-suction upholstery nozzle is remarkably effective for this kind of task. That said, the dustbin's vertical orientation and protruding shape make using the vacuum in a handheld configuration somewhat cumbersome.

Performance
Air Quality
Anti-Allergy Filter (HEPA)
No

This vacuum is reasonably effective in trapping small particles, though it doesn't have a HEPA-rated post-motor filter.

6.0
Performance
Cracks
Wood Cracks Post Test

This vacuum does a mediocre job of handling debris in cracks and crevices. Compared to newer Shark vacuums, like the Shark Stratos UltraLight, it doesn't have a secondary soft roller to help lift debris from cracks on hard floors.

1.0
Performance
Stains
Stain Pickup Post Test

This vacuum has no impact on dried-on stains.

0
Performance
Water
Wet Compatible
No
Water Pickup Post Test

This vacuum isn't meant to be used for clearing away water.

Automation
0
Automation
Physical Automation
Automatic Recharging
No
Automatic Bag Emptying
No
Pathing Algorithm
No Pathing Algorithm
Physical Boundary Markers
No
Scheduled Start Buttons
No
Cycle Control Buttons
No
Navigation Control Buttons
No

This vacuum has no automation features.

0
Automation
Companion App Automation
App Name
No App
iOS Availability
No
Android Availability
No
Software Boundary Markers (No Go Zones)
No
App Scheduled Start
No
App Cycle Control
No
Navigation Control within App
No

The Shark Rocket Corded has no companion app.