Shark IQ AV970 — Specs & Review
Specifications
| Brand | Shark |
|---|---|
| Model | IQ AV970 |
| Year | 2020 |
| Category | Cleaning |
| Autonomy | fully-autonomous |
| Environment | indoor |
| Price (USD) | $299–$349 |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Alexa, Google Assistant, App Control |
| Country of origin | CN |
Key features
- Self-emptying XL base (45-day capacity, bagless)
- Shark IQ home mapping with row-by-row cleaning
- Self-cleaning brushroll (removes hair tangles)
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
- SharkClean app room selection and scheduling
- Wi-Fi connected with remote access
- Compatible with Shark home ecosystem
What is it?
The Shark IQ AV970 is Shark's entry into the self-emptying robot vacuum segment, offering the brand's IQ navigation system — which maps the home and follows a methodical row-by-row cleaning pattern rather than the random bounce navigation of budget models.
Who is it for?
Budget-conscious buyers who want self-emptying capability and systematic mapping at a competitive price point. Pet owners benefit from the self-cleaning brushroll that removes tangled hair during operation. Those already in the SharkNinja ecosystem will appreciate seamless app integration.
Key specs
- Navigation: Shark IQ home mapping (camera-based)
- Cleaning pattern: Row-by-row systematic
- Self-empty: XL base, ~45 days capacity
- Brushroll: Self-cleaning (removes hair tangles automatically)
- Battery: ~90 minutes runtime
- Dustbin: 0.45L robot bin
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 2.4GHz, Alexa, Google Assistant
- Price: $299
How it compares
The AV970 competes directly with the Roomba i3+ at a $50 lower list price. The key differences: Shark uses an XL bagless base (empty manually) vs iRobot's bag-based Clean Base (change every ~60 days). Shark's row-by-row is more systematic than iRobot's vSLAM; iRobot's rubber dual brushes are more effective on carpet deep cleaning. The AV970 lacks a HEPA filter; the AV1002 adds HEPA and LiDAR for $50 more.
Limitations
- No HEPA filtration
- No LiDAR — camera navigation less precise than LiDAR competitors at this price
- XL base is bagless but must be manually emptied (unlike iRobot's bag swap)
- 90-minute runtime may require recharges in larger homes
- No mopping function
FAQ
Does the Shark IQ AV970 have HEPA filtration?
No. The AV970 uses a standard foam and felt filter. For HEPA filtration, Shark offers the AV1002 model. Users with allergies or asthma should consider the HEPA-equipped model.
How is the Shark IQ base emptied?
The AV970's XL base is bagless — you lift the base lid and empty it into a bin manually. This differs from the iRobot Clean Base, which uses sealed bags that you swap out. The AV970 base holds approximately 45 days of debris.
Does the Shark AV970 create a map of my home?
Yes. The Shark IQ navigation system uses camera-based mapping to learn your home's layout. It cleans in systematic rows rather than randomly, and you can designate rooms and set schedules per room via the SharkClean app.
How does the self-cleaning brushroll work?
The AV970's brushroll is designed to pull tangled hair off the brush and into the dustbin during operation. This significantly reduces the frequency of manual brushroll cleaning, particularly for pet hair and long human hair.
What is the difference between the Shark IQ AV970 and AV1002?
The AV1002 adds LiDAR navigation for more precise mapping and a HEPA filter for improved air filtration. The AV970 uses camera navigation and standard filtration. The AV1002 typically costs $50 more.