DEVOAC VM6 vs Shark S8201: Which Steam Mop Is Better in 2026?
If you are comparing the DEVOAC VM6 vs. the Shark S8201, the decision is not as simple as choosing the steam mop with the longest feature list.
Both models use rotating pads to add scrubbing action to steam cleaning, but they approach hard-floor cleaning differently. The DEVOAC VM6 is positioned as a multi-purpose 10-in-1 steam mop with rotating pads and three steam modes, while the Shark S8201 focuses more heavily on powered floor scrubbing, targeted steam, and a simpler dedicated hard-floor design.
The bigger question is, which one makes more sense for the way you actually clean?
This comparison looks at their cleaning systems, steam control, floor use, water capacity, accessories, maintenance, price, and practical differences so you can decide which model better fits your home.
DEVOAC VM6 vs Shark S8201 at a Glance
| Feature | DEVOAC VM6 | Shark S8201 |
|---|---|---|
| Product type | Scrubbing steam mop | Steam & Scrub steam mop |
| Rotating pads | Yes. | Yes. |
| Steam modes | 3 | 3 |
| Targeted steam | Not the same Steam Blaster system | Steam Blaster |
| Multi-purpose design | 10-in-1 configuration | Dedicated hard-floor mop |
| Weight | About 8.1 lb in manufacturer/manual data | 8.91 lb |
| Water tank | Manufacturer/manual sources report 330 mL. | 11.8 fl oz |
| Voltage | The 120V version is documented in the DEVOAC manual. | 120V |
| Cord | Check current product listing. | 18.6 ft |
| Cleaning path | Check current listing. | 14.5 in |
| Washable pads | Yes. | 4 Dirt Grip soft scrub pads included |
| Warranty | 12 months reported in product documentation | 1 year |
| Current official US price | Varies by seller | $159.99 on Shark |
| Best suited to | Buyers wanting more versatility | Buyers wanting dedicated powered scrubbing |
Shark’s official US specifications list the S8201 at 8.91 lb, 120V, 1,120W, with three steam modes, an 18.6-foot cord, a 14.5-inch cleaning path, and four washable Dirt Grip Soft Scrub pads.
DEVOAC documentation identifies the VM6 as a 1300W rotating-pad steam mop with three steam modes. The manufacturer’s manual also documents a 120V version, while another VM6 manual source lists a 330 mL tank. Because VM6 specifications vary across listings, check the exact version before buying.
What Is the Difference Between the DEVOAC VM6 and Shark S8201?
The biggest difference is design philosophy.
The DEVOAC VM6 tries to do more than traditional floor steaming. Its 10-in-1 positioning makes it a more versatile cleaning system, while its rotating mop table adds mechanical scrubbing to steam cleaning.
The Shark S8201 is more focused. It is designed specifically as a hard-floor steam mop with rotating pads and Shark’s Steam Blaster technology.
Shark lists three steam modes—Light, Normal, and Deep—and says its rotating pads are designed to provide easier scrubbing while its Steam Blaster provides targeted steam power. Shark also advertises up to 2X better stuck-on stain removal than a traditional steam mop; that is a manufacturer claim based on its stated comparison methodology, rather than an independent conclusion.
So the practical distinction is
VM6: more versatility and multi-purpose positioning.
S8201: more focused floor-cleaning design with targeted steam and powered rotating pads.
Cleaning Performance: Which One Has More Scrubbing Power?
Both machines are designed to make steam cleaning more aggressive than a basic push-and-steam mop.
The rotating pads are important because they provide mechanical movement against the floor instead of relying only on steam and forward pressure.
DEVOAC VM6
The VM6 uses rotating pads and is marketed as a scrubbing steam mop. DEVOAC’s documentation lists a rotating-table speed of 110–130 RPM and three steam levels.
That combination can be useful for:
- dried food spots
- tracked-in dirt
- kitchen floor messes
- everyday hard-floor maintenance
- areas where a standard steam mop feels too passive
Shark S8201
The S8201 also uses rotating pads but adds Shark’s Steam Blaster system for targeted steam.
Shark specifically describes the machine as combining mopping, scrubbing, and steam sanitizing with light, normal, and deep steam modes.
Consumer Reports also includes the S8201 in its steam-mop testing program, evaluating steam mops on areas including cleaning, steam rate, and convenience.
The practical takeaway
Neither machine should automatically be called the winner based on specifications alone.
If your priority is dedicated floor scrubbing, the S8201 has a very clear feature set built around that purpose.
If you want scrubbing plus a more versatile multi-purpose cleaning system, the VM6 has the broader concept.
Steam Control and Stuck-On Messes
Steam control matters because different floors and messes do not always need maximum steam.
The Shark S8201 has three steam modes:
- Light
- Normal
- Deep
It also has a separate Steam Blaster control for targeted steam.
That can be particularly useful when you encounter a concentrated patch of dried dirt rather than needing maximum steam across the entire floor.
The VM6 also has three steam modes. Its main advantage is that the steam system is combined with the rotating scrubbing mechanism and broader 10-in-1 design.
Which approach makes more sense?
For someone who mostly cleans sealed hard floors and wants straightforward controls, the Shark system is easier to understand.
For someone who wants a machine that can potentially cover more cleaning tasks, the VM6’s multi-purpose design may be more attractive.
Water Tank, Weight, and Everyday Handling
The Shark S8201 weighs 8.91 pounds and has an 11.8-fl-oz reservoir, according to Consumer Reports; Shark’s official specifications also list the machine at 8.91 pounds.
DEVOAC documentation lists the VM6 at about 8.08 pounds, with a 330 mL tank in the manufacturer manual.
That puts the two machines in a broadly similar weight class.
However, don’t judge handling from weight alone.
A rotating mop head, cord position, cleaning path, and head movement can have a bigger effect on how easy a steam mop feels during a full cleaning session.
The S8201 has a 14.5-inch cleaning path and an 18.6-foot cord.
For a larger open floor, that combination can reduce the number of passes and outlet changes.
Hardwood, Tile, Laminate, and Other Hard Floors
Floor compatibility deserves more attention than the marketing feature count.
Steam should generally be used only where the flooring manufacturer permits it, particularly with wood-based floors.
Sealed tile
Both machines are designed around hard-floor cleaning, making sealed tile a logical use case.
Tile kitchens and entryways can benefit from rotating-pad scrubbing because dirt often collects around high-traffic areas and grout lines.
However, the mop head cannot replace a dedicated grout-cleaning tool in every situation.
Hardwood
Do not assume that every hardwood floor can safely be steam cleaned.
Always check the flooring manufacturer’s instructions first. Excess moisture and heat can be a problem for some wood floors and finishes.
Laminate
Laminate requires the same caution.
Some manufacturers allow limited steam use on particular products, while others specifically advise against it.
Therefore, an article that simply says “yes, use steam on laminate” would be misleading.
The safest rule is simple: check your flooring manufacturer’s care instructions before using either steam mop.
Vinyl
The same principle applies to vinyl flooring.
Use steam only when the flooring manufacturer permits it and follow the recommended temperature/moisture guidance.
For more floor-specific guidance, see our existing ShopBizly resources:
Accessories and Maintenance
This is an area where buyers should look beyond the initial purchase.
Steam mops depend on washable pads, clean water systems, and regular maintenance. Replacement parts can become important if you use the machine frequently.
Shark currently lists replacement-related components for the S8201, including a replacement handle/wand, body, and rotating discs on its US site.
The S8201 also comes with four Dirt Grip Soft Scrub washable pads.
DEVOAC lists VM6 replacement mop pads on its official site, which is useful because replacement-pad availability is something buyers should check before purchasing any rotating steam mop.
Maintenance checklist
After each cleaning session:
- Allow the mop to cool.
- Remove and wash the pads according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Empty remaining water when appropriate.
- Let washable components dry fully.
- Check the mop head for trapped debris.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for descaling and storage.
A steam mop that is inexpensive to buy can become frustrating if replacement pads or other parts are difficult to obtain.
Price: DEVOAC VM6 vs Shark S8201
Price is one of the biggest reasons someone may compare these two machines.
Shark currently lists the S8201 at $159.99, reduced from $189.99 on its US site. Prices can change.
Consumer Reports currently shows the S8201 from around $159 at some retailers, with higher prices at others, so checking current retailer pricing before purchase is worthwhile.
The VM6’s price varies substantially depending on the seller and market. DEVOAC’s own site currently lists the VM6 at $239.98, while other listings can show substantially different prices.
That means price alone is not enough for a fair comparison.
A better way to compare
Instead of asking:
“Which one is cheaper?”
Ask:
“Which features will I actually use?”
If you only need a dedicated hard-floor steam mop, paying for extra multi-purpose functionality may not be necessary.
If you want broader cleaning flexibility, the VM6’s additional functionality may matter more.
DEVOAC VM6 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Rotating scrubbing pads
- Three steam modes
- Multi-purpose 10-in-1 positioning
- Designed for hard-floor cleaning
- Relatively light for its feature set
- Replacement pads are available through DEVOAC
Cons
- Specifications can vary between listings, so verify the exact version
- Multi-purpose features may be unnecessary for buyers who only want floor cleaning
- Long-term replacement-part availability should be checked before purchase
- Floor compatibility still depends on the flooring manufacturer’s instructions
Shark S8201 Pros and Cons
Pros
- Dedicated hard-floor steam mop design
- Rotating scrubbing pads
- Three steam modes
- Targeted Steam Blaster
- LED headlights
- 18.6-foot cord
- Four washable pads included
- 1-year limited warranty
- Strong availability through major US retailers
Shark’s official page confirms the rotating pads, Steam Blaster, three steam modes, LED headlights, 120V specification, 18.6-foot cord, and four included washable pads.
Cons
- More expensive than many basic steam mops
- Primarily focused on floor cleaning rather than a broad multi-purpose system
- Smaller water reservoir than some VM6 documentation figures
- Replacement parts can add to long-term ownership cost
Which One Should You Choose?
There isn’t one universal answer because the two machines are aimed at somewhat different priorities.
Choose the DEVOAC VM6 if:
- You want a more versatile cleaning system.
- You like the idea of a 10-in-1 design.
- Rotating-pad scrubbing is important to you.
- You want multiple cleaning functions from one machine.
- You are comfortable checking seller-specific specifications before buying.
Choose the Shark S8201 if:
- Your main priority is hard-floor cleaning.
- You want rotating scrubbing pads.
- Targeted steam is useful to you.
- You prefer a well-documented US model.
- You want easy access to major US retailers and official replacement components.
- You value a dedicated floor-cleaning design.
The S8201 also has an advantage in publicly documented US specifications: Shark provides detailed voltage, wattage, dimensions, cord length, cleaning path, weight, and included accessories.
What About Independent Testing?
This is an important difference between product marketing and independent evidence.
Consumer Reports currently includes the Shark S8201 in its steam-mop testing program. Its testing framework considers cleaning, steam rate, and convenience, although the detailed ratings are behind its membership access.
The VM6 also appears in current steam-mop comparisons, including comparisons that place it alongside the Shark S8201. However, third-party roundup claims should be treated separately from laboratory testing or manufacturer specifications.
For that reason, this comparison avoids declaring a laboratory-tested winner where the underlying data are not publicly available.
Quick Decision Guide
| If your priority is… | Consider |
|---|---|
| Dedicated hard-floor steam cleaning | Shark S8201 |
| Rotating scrubbing | Either |
| Targeted steam | Shark S8201 |
| Multi-purpose versatility | DEVOAC VM6 |
| 10-in-1 functionality | DEVOAC VM6 |
| Detailed US specifications | Shark S8201 |
| Major US retail availability | Shark S8201 |
| Replacement components | Check both before buying. |
| Lowest possible purchase price | Compare current seller prices |
| Best fit for your exact floor | Follow flooring manufacturer guidance. |
Final Takeaway
The DEVOAC VM6 vs. Shark S8201 comparison comes down to versatility versus a more focused hard-floor cleaning system.
The VM6 is designed around a broader 10-in-1 concept with rotating scrubbing pads and three steam modes. The Shark S8201 takes a more dedicated approach, combining rotating pads, three steam modes, and targeted Steam Blaster technology in a hard-floor steam mop.
For shoppers who want a straightforward, well-documented US steam mop with a dedicated scrubbing design, the S8201 has a strong practical case.
For shoppers who value broader cleaning functionality and the VM6’s multi-purpose design, the DEVOAC can make more sense.
Before buying either one, check three things: your floor manufacturer’s steam-cleaning guidance, the exact product specifications for the version being sold, and the current replacement-pad/parts availability.
intentionally omitted because this comparison is not dependent on an AliExpress affiliate listing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the DEVOAC VM6 better than the Shark S8201?
They are designed with different priorities. The VM6 emphasizes multi-purpose functionality, while the S8201 focuses on dedicated hard-floor scrubbing with rotating pads and targeted steam. The better fit depends on how you plan to use the machine.
Does the DEVOAC VM6 have rotating pads?
Yes. The VM6 is designed with a rotating mop table/pads. Manufacturer documentation lists a rotating-table speed of approximately 110–130 RPM.
Does the Shark S8201 have different steam levels?
Yes. Shark lists Light, Normal, and Deep steam modes, plus Steam Blaster control.
Can I use either steam mop on hardwood?
Only if the flooring manufacturer permits steam cleaning. Hardwood floors differ in construction and finish, so do not rely solely on the steam mop manufacturer’s general floor claims.
Is the Shark S8201 available in the US?
Yes. Shark currently lists the S8201 on its US website as a 120V model, and Consumer Reports lists it through multiple US retailers.
Does the VM6 have replacement pads?
DEVOAC currently lists replacement mop pads for the VM6 on its official site.
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