Dyson vs Shark Vacuum

The Dyson V15 Detect and Shark IZ562H sit at opposite ends of the cordless vacuum market. After using both in my apartment, I think the Shark does 90% of what the Dyson does at about 40% of the price. That makes the Dyson's $750 tag hard to justify for a college apartment with 600 square feet of hardwood and a bathroom rug. Dyson has a laser that illuminates dust particles on hard floors. The first time I turned it on in a dark room and saw green light reveal crumbs and hair I didn't know existed, I understood the premium. Making the invisible visible turns vacuuming from a chore into something closer to discovery. Shark has stronger suction on carpet and similar dust bin capacity. Battery life is about the same at 40 minutes, and build quality feels solid even if the materials aren't as refined. Dyson's engineering is better, but the Shark's value proposition earns more respect. Furnishing a first apartment with limited money, I'd buy the Shark at $300 and spend the $450 difference on a bookshelf. Where Dyson wins is the screen display showing particle counts in real time, a feature I didn't think I needed until it proved my carpet was dirtier than it looked. My roommate has the Dyson. I have the Shark. We both get clean floors. The difference is mostly about whether you enjoy vacuuming or just want it done.