Shark vs Pursteam World's Best Steamers: Steam Mops Compared by Specs
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
When you compare the shark vs pursteam world s best steamers steam mop, you see two lightweight options that heat up in 30 seconds. Both units sanitize floors using only water. The Shark S3501 focuses on hard floor cleaning with a wide, fixed head. The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 offers a detachable handheld design. This difference changes how you store and use each tool. We break down the specs to help you choose.
Key differences
| Aspect | Shark Steam Pocket Mop with Reversible Pads | PurSteam 10-in-1 Detachable Steam Mop |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Fixed handheld mop | Detachable handheld steam cleaner |
| Width | 12 inches | 9.45 inches |
| Weight | 4.87 pounds | 4.41 pounds |
| Included Accessories | 2 washable double-sided pads | 10 accessories including brushes, squeegee, and carpet glider |
| Special Feature | Steam | Steam, Detachable Handheld Steamer |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Shark Steam Pocket Mop with Reversible Pads if
- You want a wider cleaning path for large hard floor areas.
- You prefer a simple setup with just washable microfiber pads.
- You want a unit designed specifically for sealed hard floors like hardwood and tile.
Choose PurSteam 10-in-1 Detachable Steam Mop if
- You need to clean upholstery, drapes, or carpets with attachments.
- You want a lighter unit that is easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
- You value a versatile tool that includes multiple specialized cleaning heads.
Verdict: Choose the Shark if you primarily clean large hard floor areas and want a wider mop head. Pick the PurSteam if you need a multi-purpose tool that detaches for fabric and detailed cleaning tasks. Both heat up quickly and use only water for sanitization.
Specs: Shark vs Pursteam Mops
Form factor and versatility
The Shark S3501 is a traditional steam pocket mop with a fixed head designed for floor cleaning. It measures 51.2 inches in length, providing a standard reach for mopping hard surfaces. The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 offers a detachable handheld configuration. You can separate the steamer unit from the handle to use it as a handheld cleaner for upholstery, clothes, or tight spaces. This makes the PurSteam a more versatile tool if you need to clean beyond just floors. The Shark remains a dedicated floor cleaner without this additional handheld capability.
Cleaning width and coverage
Floor coverage depends heavily on the width of the cleaning head. The Shark S3501 features a 12-inch wide mop head. This broader surface allows you to cover more square footage with each pass, which can speed up the cleaning process for large rooms. The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 has a narrower 9.45-inch width. While this may require slightly more passes to cover the same area, it can offer better precision in tighter spots. If your priority is covering large floor areas quickly, the wider Shark head provides a clear advantage in efficiency.
Included accessories
The accessory packages differ significantly between the two models. The Shark S3501 includes two dual-sided microfiber Dirt Grip pads. These are machine washable and designed to lift dirt from sealed hard floors. The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 comes with a much larger array of tools. It includes small and big brushes, an angled nozzle, a grout brush, a scrape tool, a steamer jet, a squeegee, a carpet glider, and microfiber cloths. The PurSteam provides more specialized tools for various cleaning tasks, whereas the Shark focuses solely on floor pad cleaning.
Portability and storage
Both units are lightweight and designed for easy handling. The Shark S3501 weighs 4.87 pounds and has a compact design for convenient storage. The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 is slightly lighter at 4.41 pounds. It also features a handle that collapses for easier storage. The PurSteam is narrower in overall dimensions, with a length of 8.07 inches compared to the Shark's 12-inch width. The collapsible handle and lighter weight of the PurSteam make it slightly more portable for carrying between rooms or storing in small spaces.
Compatible surfaces
Both steamers are designed for use on sealed hard floors. The Shark S3501 explicitly lists compatibility with hardwood, marble, tile, stone, laminate, and vinyl. It is optimized for these surfaces with its specific mop head design. The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 is also compatible with hard floors but includes a carpet glider accessory. This allows the PurSteam to be used on carpets as well, adding versatility. If you only clean hard floors, both are suitable. If you need to address carpets occasionally, the PurSteam offers broader surface compatibility.
Which steam mop suits your home best
You want a traditional mop for hard floors
The Shark S3501 features a fixed head that measures 12 inches wide. This wider coverage allows you to clean larger areas of sealed hardwood, tile, or vinyl more efficiently. Its 51.2-inch length provides comfortable reach without bending. The dual-sided microfiber pads lift dirt effectively. You can flip the pad to use both sides, reducing the frequency of washes during your cleaning session.
You need versatility for multiple surfaces and tasks
The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 detaches into a handheld steamer. This configuration lets you clean upholstery, drapes, or clothes directly. It includes a carpet glider for fabric cleaning and various brushes for grout or kitchen surfaces. The compact 23.9-inch height collapses for storage. You get a squeegee and scrape tool for detailed jobs beyond standard floor mopping.
You prefer a lighter unit for easy handling
The PurSteam model weighs 4.41 pounds, which is lighter than the Shark S3501 at 4.87 pounds. This reduced weight makes it easier to carry between rooms or hold for extended periods. The detachable handheld feature further reduces the load when cleaning vertical surfaces or tight spaces. Both units heat up in 30 seconds, but the lighter build enhances maneuverability for detailed work.
The products compared
Shark Steam Pocket Mop with Reversible Pads
Best for: Quick daily cleaning of sealed hard floors
- Heat-Up Time
- 30 seconds
- Compatible Surface
- Hard Floors
- Special Feature
- Steam, Lightweight, Swivel Steering
- Dimensions
- 51.2 × 12 × 5.9 inches
- Weight
- 4.87 pounds
View on Amazon: Shark Steam Pocket Mop with Reversible Pads Affiliate link
The Shark S3501 is a lightweight steam mop weighing under 5 lbs. It heats up in 30 seconds and features a 12-inch wide head. The design includes swivel steering for maneuverability around furniture. It cleans all sealed hard floors using just water. This model suits users who need quick setup and easy storage for routine maintenance.
Pros
- Heats up in 30 seconds for immediate use
- Weighs 4.87 pounds for easy carrying
- Includes two washable double-sided microfiber pads
- Swivel steering aids tight space cleaning
Cons
- Only cleans sealed hard floors
- No detachable handheld steamer function
- Fixed 12-inch head width
Good fit if
- You want to start steaming in under a minute
- You need a lightweight mop for stairs or upper floors
- You have sealed hard floors like hardwood or tile
Skip if
- You need to clean carpets or rugs
- You require a detachable handheld unit for upholstery
- You want to sanitize surfaces without water
Verdict: Shark S3501 Steam Pocket Mop is a practical option for quick daily cleaning of hard surfaces. It fits buyers who prioritize speed and low weight over versatile handheld features.
PurSteam 10-in-1 Detachable Steam Mop
Best for: Versatile cleaning of floors and fabrics
- Configuration
- Detachable handheld steam cleaner
- Heat-Up Time
- 30 seconds
- Compatible Surface
- Hard Floors
- Special Feature
- Steam, Detachable Handheld Steamer
- Color
- White
- Dimensions
- 8.07 × 9.45 × 23.9 inches
View on Amazon: PurSteam 10-in-1 Detachable Steam Mop Affiliate link
The PurSteam 10-in-1 Therma Pro 211 is a white steam mop that weighs 4.41 pounds. It heats in 30 seconds and features a detachable handheld unit. The 9.45-inch wide head swivels for maneuverability. You can use it on hard floors or with the carpet glider. It includes multiple brushes and a squeegee for versatile cleaning tasks around your home.
Pros
- Heats up in 30 seconds for quick use
- Detachable handheld steamer for upholstery and clothes
- Swiveling head reaches under furniture
- Includes carpet glider for hard surfaces and carpets
- Collapsible handle for compact storage
Cons
- Limited to 9.45 inches width compared to wider models
- 4.41 pounds weight may feel heavy for extended handheld use
- No water tank capacity listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You need a detachable handheld steamer for fabrics
- You want to clean grout lines and tight spaces
- You prefer chemical-free cleaning methods
Skip if
- You require a large water tank capacity
- You need a mop wider than 9.45 inches
- You prefer a heavier, more stable base unit
Verdict: PurSteam 10-in-1 Therma Pro 211 Steam Mop suits users who need a versatile, detachable steamer for both floors and fabrics. It is ideal for those who value quick heat-up times and multiple attachment options for detailed cleaning tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Shark Steam Pocket Mop with Reversible Pads | PurSteam 10-in-1 Detachable Steam Mop |
|---|---|---|
| Configuration | not stated | Detachable handheld steam cleaner |
| Heat-Up Time | 30 seconds | 30 seconds |
| Form Factor | not stated | Handheld |
| Compatible Surface | Hard Floors | Hard Floors |
| Special Feature | Steam, Lightweight, Swivel Steering | Steam, Detachable Handheld Steamer |
| Color | Purple | White |
| Dimensions | 51.2 × 12 × 5.9 inches | 8.07 × 9.45 × 23.9 inches |
| Weight | 4.87 pounds | 4.41 pounds |
| Size | Regular | Steam Mop - 10-in-1 Large |
| Model | S3501 | Therma Pro 211 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Shark S3501 heavy to use?
The Shark S3501 weighs 4.87 pounds, making it a lightweight option for daily mopping. Its compact design helps reduce arm fatigue while you clean. This weight allows for easy maneuvering around furniture and tight spaces without straining your wrist during extended cleaning sessions.
Does the PurSteam Therma Pro 211 clean upholstery?
Yes, the PurSteam Therma Pro 211 is designed for versatile cleaning. It features a detachable handheld steamer function that allows you to clean fabrics beyond just hard floors. This versatility makes it suitable for refreshing upholstery, curtains, and other fabric surfaces in your home.
What is the width of the Shark mop head?
The Shark S3501 has a mop head width of 12 inches. This wider coverage helps you clean larger areas of sealed hardwood, tile, or vinyl more efficiently. A broader head reduces the number of passes needed to complete your floor cleaning tasks.
How tall is the PurSteam 10-in-1 steam mop?
The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 stands 23.9 inches in height. This dimension refers to the unit itself, while the full length with the handle extends to 8.07 inches in one dimension and 9.45 inches in width. The design accommodates various cleaning tasks.
Can I use the Shark S3501 on carpets?
The Shark S3501 is best for quick daily cleaning of sealed hard floors. Its specifications indicate it is designed for hard surfaces rather than carpet cleaning. You should use this model for tile, vinyl, or sealed hardwood to maintain optimal performance and floor safety.
What color is the PurSteam Therma Pro 211?
The PurSteam Therma Pro 211 is available in white. This color choice helps it blend with most home decor styles while you clean. The white finish is consistent across the body of the unit, providing a clean and modern appearance in your utility or storage areas.