The Shark cordless is a simple vacuum cleaner with no variable power modes: it’s either on or off. Above the power button, ever so slightly out of reach of my thumb, is the bin release mechanism. The Shark can’t go long without being emptied but, fortunately, it’s a hassle-free experience. Simply hold the machine horizontally over the bin and release the catch. The bin flips outward and hurls its contents with remarkable force, so be careful where you aim. Small handheld vacs are a great way to clean up small messes, but some can struggle to deal with more sizeable debris or larger areas. Not so with the Shark Premium Handheld Vacuum WV270UK, the new version of Shark’s classic handheld. Delivering more power, via two selectable modes, and a decent 15-minute runtime, this is a compact vacuum cleaner with the power to compete with a full-sized model. Design and Features I started out by testing the vacuum cleaner’s suction performance, using a water-lift gauge and an anemometer for air velocity. Using these two figures, I can approximate the AirWatts (AW) of the vacuum, which came in at 42.36AW. That’s pretty much par for the course for a handheld spot vacuum cleaner, and is around the same level of power you’d see from the mid setting of a regular cordless cleaner. On the standard ION mode, the cleaner came in at 62.78AW, which is around average for a cordless vacuum cleaner in regular power mode. With Boost mode, I measured the vacuum at 124.65AW, which is around the same as the larger Shark IZ251UK. That’s impressive going.

Double battery: You get two batteries with this design so when one runs out, you can easily switch to the other and continue your clean. Each one has a run time of 8 minutes. Designed to be convenient and easy to use, the Shark WV251UK is a small and lightweight vacuum cleaner. Measuring 420 x 60 x 55mm, and with a weight of 0.69kg, it’s incredibly light in the hand; it’s well balanced, allowing you to direct it at the mess you need to clean up.

Shark WV251UK handheld vacuum cleaner: The full review

Charging/storage base: The charging base - measuring 8.5in (22cm) long by 4in (10cm) at its widest point - doubles as a compact storage stand for the Shark WV251UK and its accessories so you can find everything in one place. There’s no point in having a lightweight vacuum cleaner if it doesn’t have the cleaning performance of a larger model. Starting out, I measured the cleaner’s power in AirWatts (AW), which is a measurement of suction power and airflow combined. It’s a bit of a shame, then, that the charging stand only has room to accommodate one of these accessories. You’ll need to find space to store the other tools. The single-battery variant offers space for two accessories. Lightweight body: The handheld device weighs just 0.6kg, making it the lightest Shark model you can get. It’s perfect for those with mobility problems who might not be able to lift heavy objects.

I then used the dusting brush on the rim around the bi-fold doors, which often collect cat hair and – because these are in a kitchen – slightly dirty grease. The WV251UK managed to rid most of the surface dirt, but small traces remained. I’ve seen more powerful vacuum cleaners do better – so for some jobs you’ll need to whip out your full-sized vacuum. Competition is tough, though. The Hoover H-Handy 700 is cheaper, offers similar levels of power and comfort, and runs for 12 minutes from its single battery. This cleaner has neater storage, although Hoover’s accessories have smaller heads than those of Shark, so it can take a little longer to clean.READ NEXT: Our Dyson V11 Absolute review Shark Cordless Handheld Vacuum review: Price and competition

Shark states that the WV361UK has a 16-minute run-time, although this is without the motorised floor brush. Attach a motorised tool and battery life is closer to 12 minutes. On Boost mode, you’ll get less than 10 minutes.Small, powerful and convenient, the Shark WV251UK is a useful grab-and-go cleaner. Thanks to its selection of attachments, it can clean up most spills with the ease and power of a larger vacuum cleaner.

The Shark WV251UK has plenty of features that make it super handy to have around at home. These include: You can remove the HEPA filter and bin separately to give both a regular clean, before leaving to dry and reinserting.Slimline design: There’s no bulky motor here. Instead, you have a 2ft (61cm) long wand-style vacuum that measures 2.5in (6cm) at its widest point. It's great for getting into those narrow gaps, tight corners and reaching up to clear away cobwebs. Is that a problem? Well, not necessarily. The battery life of the WV270UK is more than sufficient for its intended purpose, so I didn’t feel the need for a second battery.