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
The biggest difference:
- Brushroll system
- Smart suction adjustment
Shark Detect Pro
Key features:
- Adjusts suction in the edges, on carpets, when it detects high-traffic areas
- Doesn't lose suction in reverse
- The latest brushroll technology
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.
Pross:
- The smartest suction adjust
- The latest brushroll system
Cons:
- The smallest accessory kit
- No powered extra tools
Shark Detect
Key features:
- Odor neutralizer
- Floor & direction detection
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.
Pross:
- Powerful
- Detects direction and floor type
Cons:
- Not the cheapest
Detect Pro
Key features:
- The biggest dustcup
- Includes a pet power brush
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.
Pross:
- The cheapest
- Includes a motorised extra tool
- The lighter
Cons:
- Doesn't adjust power settings automatically
- Not as powerful
- Older brushroll system
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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