The Shark Navigator series has long been a favorite for homeowners seeking powerful and versatile cleaning solutions without breaking the bank. Two popular models, the Navigator NV370 and NV360, often find themselves on the shortlists of potential buyers. Both offer the coveted “Lift-Away” feature, bagless design, and swivel steering, making them strong contenders in the upright vacuum market. This comparison dives deep into the nuances of each model to help you determine which one best fits your cleaning needs and budget.
These Navigator models are primarily targeted towards homeowners with a mix of carpeted and hard floors, those with pets, and individuals seeking a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum. They represent a sweet spot in the market, offering features typically found in higher-end models at a more accessible price point. Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, everyday dirt, or the occasional spill, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each model will ensure you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of the Shark Navigator NV370
- Short Review of the Shark Navigator NV360
- Key Differences at a Glance
- Specifications Comparison
- Price Comparison
- Design and Build Quality
- Performance Face-Off
- Special Features Comparison
- Usability and User Experience
- Maintenance and Longevity
- Who Should Buy the Shark Navigator NV370?
- Who Should Buy the Shark Navigator NV360?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For Pet Owners: The NV370, with its Pet Power Brush and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, is better suited for homes with pets.
- For Hard Floors: Both are decent, but neither have a brushroll off switch, so they may scatter larger debris.
- For Budget Conscious Shoppers: The NV360 generally comes in at a lower price point.
- For Allergy Sufferers: The NV370’s HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology make it a better option.
- For Ease of Use: Both models are similar in design and weight, offering comparable maneuverability.
The Shark Navigator NV370 is a corded, bagless upright vacuum cleaner known for its powerful suction and versatility. A key feature is its Lift-Away technology, allowing users to detach the canister for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas. It also boasts Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter, trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
The NV370 comes with several attachments, including a Hard Floor Hero attachment for superior bare floor cleaning, a Pet Power Brush for removing pet hair, a Dusting Brush, and a Crevice Tool. It’s designed for use on both carpets and hard floors, with swivel steering for excellent control and maneuverability around furniture. While it’s lightweight and easy to use, some users find it a little difficult to move under low furniture.
The Shark Navigator NV360 is a popular, affordable upright vacuum that offers a balance of performance and value. Its Lift-Away design allows for easy transition between upright and portable cleaning, making it convenient for various cleaning tasks. It’s bagless, which means no recurring costs for bags, and it has a decent-sized dust cup, reducing the frequency of emptying.
The NV360 is effective at picking up pet hair on both high and low-pile carpets, and it comes with a few useful attachments, such as a crevice tool and upholstery tool. However, some users have noted that it doesn’t clean edges very well, and the hose is quite short, which can be inconvenient when using attachments. The brushroll can also get tangled with hair, requiring regular maintenance.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Attachments: The NV370 includes a Hard Floor Hero attachment and a Pet Power Brush, while the NV360 typically comes with a standard crevice tool and upholstery tool.
- Filtration: The NV370 features Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter, which is not always standard on the NV360 (check specific NV360 models).
- Weight: The NV370 is slightly heavier than the NV360 (NV370: 13.7 lbs vs. NV360: 12.5 lbs).
- Price: The NV360 is generally more affordable than the NV370.
- Color: The NV360 typically comes in blue, while the NV370 is usually white and silver.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark Navigator NV370 | Shark Navigator NV360 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Bagless Upright | Bagless Upright |
| Weight | 13.7 lbs | 12.5 lbs |
| Dust Cup Capacity | Extra-large | Large |
| Cord Length | 25 feet | 25 feet |
| Filtration | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology | HEPA filter (on some models) |
| Lift-Away | Yes | Yes |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Attachments | Hard Floor Hero, Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool | Crevice tool, Upholstery tool |
| Dimensions | 14.96 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches | 14.96 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches |
| Model Number | NV370 | NV360 |
| Specific Uses | Hard Floors, Carpets | Dual-action |
Price Comparison
The Shark Navigator NV360 is generally the more budget-friendly option. Prices fluctuate depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, but the NV360 typically retails for around $150-$180, while the NV370 can range from $180-$220. The NV370 justifies its slightly higher price with the inclusion of additional attachments like the Hard Floor Hero and Pet Power Brush, as well as its enhanced filtration system.
Considering the cost-to-feature ratio, the NV360 offers excellent value for those seeking a basic, reliable upright vacuum with Lift-Away functionality. However, if you have pets or suffer from allergies, the NV370’s specialized attachments and filtration system may be worth the extra investment.
Design and Build Quality
Both the NV370 and NV360 share a similar upright design with a detachable canister for Lift-Away mode. They are primarily constructed from durable plastic, which contributes to their relatively lightweight nature. The swivel steering mechanism enhances maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
The NV370 features a white and silver color scheme, while the NV360 is typically blue. Both vacuums have a similar overall footprint, making them easy to store. While both are reasonably durable for their price point, some users have noted that the hose can be a bit stiff and prone to tipping the vacuum over.
Performance Face-Off
Carpet Cleaning
Both models perform adequately on carpets, with strong suction power that effectively removes dirt and debris. The NV370’s Pet Power Brush gives it an edge in pet hair removal on carpets, while the NV360 is also capable but may require more passes. The NV370 has demonstrated slightly better performance on both carpet types than the NV360.
Hard Floor Cleaning
Neither vacuum has a brushroll on/off switch, they may scatter larger debris on hard floors. The NV370’s Hard Floor Hero attachment is designed for superior bare floor cleaning, picking up surface litter and stuck-on debris. The NV360 can still perform well on hard floors, but it may not be as effective at capturing fine dust and debris.
Pet Hair Removal
The NV370 excels in pet hair removal thanks to its Pet Power Brush and strong suction. The NV360 can also handle pet hair, but the specialized brush of the NV370 makes it more efficient.
Edge Cleaning
The NV360 doesn’t clean up tight to an edge very well.
Special Features Comparison
- Shark Navigator NV370: The standout special feature is the Hard Floor Hero attachment, which provides superior bare floor cleaning. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter is another significant advantage for allergy sufferers.
- Shark Navigator NV360: The NV360’s main special feature is its affordability, offering Lift-Away functionality and decent performance at a lower price point.
Usability and User Experience
Both the NV370 and NV360 are easy to assemble and use, with intuitive controls and a lightweight design. The Lift-Away feature is a major selling point, allowing for versatile cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas. The swivel steering enhances maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around furniture and obstacles.
The NV370 and NV360 are suitable for both novice and experienced users. Their straightforward design and ease of use make them accessible to anyone, regardless of their cleaning experience.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both models require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance. This includes emptying the dust cup, cleaning the filters, and removing any hair or debris that may get tangled in the brushroll. The NV370’s HEPA filter may require more frequent cleaning, especially in homes with pets or allergy sufferers.
The expected lifespan of both vacuums is similar, with proper maintenance potentially extending their use for several years. However, some users have reported issues with the hose becoming stiff or the vacuum tipping over easily.
- Pet Owners: The Pet Power Brush and strong suction make it ideal for removing pet hair from carpets and upholstery.
- Allergy Sufferers: The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
- Those with Primarily Hard Floors: The Hard Floor Hero attachment provides superior bare floor cleaning.
- Users Who Want a Complete Cleaning Solution: With its versatile attachments, the NV370 can handle a variety of cleaning tasks.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: The NV360 offers excellent value for those seeking a reliable upright vacuum with Lift-Away functionality at a lower price point.
- Users with a Mix of Carpets and Hard Floors: The NV360 performs adequately on both surfaces, making it a versatile option for various homes.
- Those Seeking a Lightweight and Maneuverable Vacuum: The NV360 is easy to carry and maneuver, making it ideal for quick cleanups and smaller spaces.
- Users Who Don’t Require Specialized Attachments: If you don’t have pets or specific cleaning needs, the NV360’s basic attachments may suffice.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark Navigator NV370 and NV360 are solid choices for homeowners seeking a versatile and affordable upright vacuum. The NV360 offers excellent value for budget-conscious shoppers, while the NV370 provides enhanced features and specialized attachments for pet owners and allergy sufferers.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you have pets or allergies, the NV370 is worth the extra investment. If you’re looking for a basic, reliable vacuum at a lower price point, the NV360 is a great option.
