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Shark Upright Detect Pro LA742 vs. Detect LA492 vs. Rotator LA502

Updated: Oct 23, 2025

Lately, Skark released its newer series, Detect and Detect Pro, which is a better buy in many ways. Let's talk about it and compare it with the old-fashioned Rotator.

Shark Detect Pro LA742 vs. Detect LA492 vs. Rotator LA502

Specs LA742 Detect Pro LA492 Detect LA502 Rotator
Price $299.99 $329.99 $269.99
Specs
Dust capacity (quarts/ml) 0.74 / 700 0.74 / 700 0.89 / 842
Wattage 960 960 890
Cord length (ft) 30 30 30
Product weight (lbs/kg) 14.9 / 6.7 13.2 / 5.9 12.3 / 5.5
Cleaning mechanics
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal yes yes yes
Odor Neutralizer yes yes no
Filter type HEPA + Foam Filters HEPA + Foam Filters HEPA + Foam Filters
Brushroll technology DuoClean Detect PowerFinsDetect DuoClean PowerFins
Self-Cleaning Brushroll yes yes yes
Lift-Away yes yes yes
LED yes yes yes
Smart features
Floor Detect yes yes no
Direction Detect yes yes no
Edge Detect yes no no
Dirt Detect yes no no
Package
Crevice Tool yes yes yes
Dust Brush no yes no
Pet-Multi Tool no yes no
Upholstery Tool yes no yes
Pet Power Brush no no yes

The Shark's Duo Roller system is known for its best pickup performance and deep carpet cleaning. Depending on the model, the system varies with the type of duo.

The three uprights have similar specs, power, and cleaning mechanics.

Lift Away helps to reach above the floor without tiring your hand

Shark Detect Pro 

The LA742 features sensors that react to edges, floor type, direction, and dirty areas.

Smart suction adjust:

  • Direction detect (doesn't lose power on reserve)
  • Edge detect (boost suction along the edges)
  • Floor detect (senses carpets)
  • Dirt detect (messy areas)

Has the latest brushroll system and odor neutraliser cartridges.

Shark Detect

The LA492 has odor-neutralizer technology and better roller technology. It has more power but has a smaller dustbin and is heavier than the Rotator.

Great when on sale

The Shark Detect is a great value with lots of power and smart features.

Detect Pro

A classic, powerful vacuum for big homes with lots of carpets that can handle debris and has zero-tangle technology.

A powerful machine ideal for homes with carpets and pet owners

The only cleaner with a motorised pet power brush.

Unlike the other two, the Rotator doesn't adjust suction on carpets or along the walls.


Summing up

Editor's choice: LA742 Detect Pro

Smarter suction adjustment and the latest brushroll system make the LA742 a better buy in 2025/2026. However, the Detect LA492 is a great value, especially if it has a discount.

The Rotator is the cheapest one; it lacks extras, yet is a great buy if you don't need a fancy roller system or more power.


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