Shark ZU503 Teal
Score: 79/100
Dyson Ball Animal 3
Score: 83/100Rankings
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 is a high-suction upright vacuum with a 290 AW motor and a large 1.7 L bin, excelling at pet-hair removal. Its heavy weight and bulkier shape make it less portable and harder to store. Best suited for pet owners in larger homes who prioritize suction power over maneuverability.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away ZU503AMZ is a corded upright with strong suction, HEPA filtration and a self-cleaning brushroll, making it great for pet owners. Its main drawbacks are the heavy weight and relatively short 25-ft cord. Best suited for medium-sized homes where maneuverability and allergen control are priorities.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
1,200 Wbest | — | |
| ↓ lower better | 95.9 cmbest | 107.1 cm |
| ↓ lower better | 6.8 kgbest | 7.86 kg |
7.62 mbest | — | |
— | 1.7 Lbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 80 dBbest | — |
120 Vbest | — | |
5best | 2 |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Build & Design(2) | ||
Height (cm) | 95.9 cm | 107.1 cm |
Weight (kg) | 6.80 kg | 7.86 kg |
Features(1) | ||
Lift‑Away Capability | true | false |
Accessories(2) | ||
Accessories Count | 5 | 2 |
Tools Included | Upholstery tool, Pet crevice tool | Dyson Ball Animal 3 vacuum unit, Tangle‑free turbine tool, Stair tool, Articulating hard floor tool, On‑board tool storage compartment, Manual cord storage mechanism, 5‑year warranty documentation |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers note that the ZU503AMZ (via the similar ZU560) delivers respectable airflow of 66.3 CFM and scores well for portability thanks to its Lift-Away pod, but its suction power trails behind premium Shark uprights. The HEPA filtration and anti-allergen seal are praised for indoor air quality, while the corded design is seen as a limitation for quick, cordless-style clean-ups.
Everyday users appreciate the strong suction, easy maneuverability, and hassle-free dust cup emptying, while also noting the acceptable noise level. The most common complaint is the relatively short 25-ft cord, and some find the unit heavy for prolonged use.
Professional reviewers commend the Dyson Ball Animal 3 for its strong suction, advanced detangling turbine, and redesigned self-adjusting floorhead that excels on hard floors and pet hair. Build quality and the large hygienic bin receive high marks, though the 17 lb weight and lack of a storage rack are noted as drawbacks, especially for users prioritizing portability.
Everyday users praise the vacuum's powerful suction, effective pet-hair handling, long reach, and large bin that minimizes emptying. Recurring complaints focus on its heavy weight, bulkier shape, and the challenges of managing the cord and storing the unit in smaller living spaces.
“Great suction, maneuverability, easy emptying, and acceptable sound; sole complaint is needing a longer cord”
