The Shark Navigator DLX and Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 are both upright vacuums designed for whole-home cleaning, targeting consumers who want powerful suction and versatile features at an affordable price point. These bagless vacuums compete in the popular mid-range category, offering features like HEPA filtration, specialized tools, and multi-surface cleaning capabilities. Potential buyers are often homeowners with a mix of carpets and hard floors, pet owners looking for effective hair removal, and those seeking a lightweight and maneuverable cleaning solution.
Choosing between these two models can be tricky, as they both offer compelling features and benefits. This comprehensive comparison dives deep into the key differences, performance metrics, design elements, and user experiences of the Shark Navigator DLX and Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 to help you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize powerful suction, ease of use, or specialized features, this detailed analysis will provide the insights you need to select the best vacuum for your specific needs and cleaning challenges.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark Navigator DLX
- Short Review of Hoover Windtunnel UH70400
- 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 DLX?
- Who Should Buy the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For Versatility and Above-Floor Cleaning: The Shark Navigator DLX wins with its Lift-Away feature, making it ideal for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
- For Lightweight Maneuverability: The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 is the lighter option, making it easier to carry and maneuver around furniture.
- For Pet Owners: Both vacuums offer pet hair removal capabilities, but the Shark Navigator DLX’s specialized pet tools may give it a slight edge.
- For Budget-Conscious Buyers: Both vacuums offer good value, but the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 is an older model and may be found at a lower price.
The Shark Navigator DLX is a bagless upright vacuum known for its powerful suction and versatility. A standout feature is its Lift-Away design, allowing users to detach the canister for portable cleaning on stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor surfaces. It also boasts Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter, trapping dust and allergens inside the vacuum. Its swivel steering enhances maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
This vacuum is well-suited for homes with a mix of carpets and hard floors, as it includes a brushroll shutoff to transition between different floor types. The included pet power brush effectively removes pet hair from various surfaces, making it a popular choice for pet owners. The large-capacity dust cup allows for extended cleaning sessions without frequent emptying. Overall, the Shark Navigator DLX offers a balance of power, versatility, and convenience for everyday cleaning needs.
Short Review of Hoover Windtunnel UH70400
The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 is a lightweight, bagless upright vacuum designed for ease of use and effective multi-surface cleaning. Its Windtunnel technology provides strong suction for lifting dirt and debris from both carpets and hard floors. The vacuum features a recline handle that can lay flat, for cleaning under furniture without moving it. A quick-fit hose allows for easy attachment of tools for above-floor cleaning.
Weighing only 12 pounds, this Hoover vacuum is easy to carry and maneuver around the home. It comes with a 3-in-1 combination tool that includes an extension wand, crevice tool, and upholstery brush, providing versatility for various cleaning tasks. The HEPA filter captures dust, dirt, and pollen, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. While it may lack some of the advanced features of newer models, the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 offers a reliable and affordable cleaning solution for smaller homes and apartments.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Lift-Away Feature: The Shark Navigator DLX has a Lift-Away feature for portable cleaning, while the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 does not.
- Weight: The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 is lighter (around 12 lbs) than the Shark Navigator DLX (around 16 lbs).
- Dust Cup Capacity: The Shark Navigator DLX has a larger dust cup capacity (0.9 qts) compared to the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400.
- Cord Length: The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 has a slightly longer cord (30 ft) than the Shark Navigator DLX (25 ft).
- Pet Tools: The Shark Navigator DLX includes a dedicated pet power brush, while the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 comes with a 3-in-1 combination tool.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark Navigator DLX | Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number | NV360, UV440 | UH70400 |
| Type | Upright, Bagless | Upright, Bagless |
| Weight | 15.96 lbs | 12 lbs |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 qts | Smaller Capacity (unspecified) |
| Cord Length | 25 ft | 30 ft |
| Cleaning Path Width | 9.5 in | 12 in |
| Filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, HEPA Filter | HEPA Filter |
| Brushroll Shutoff | Yes | Yes |
| Lift-Away Feature | Yes | No |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Not explicitly mentioned, but maneuverable |
| Amperage | 10 amps | 11 amps |
| Wattage | 1200 watts | 1200 watts |
| Tools Included | Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool, Pet Power Brush | 3-in-1 Combination Tool (Extension Wand, Crevice Tool, Upholstery Brush), Stair Hose |
| Warranty | 5 years | 2 years |
Price Comparison
The Shark Navigator DLX typically retails for around $150-$200, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. It offers a strong value proposition with its Lift-Away feature, HEPA filtration, and specialized pet tools. The cost-to-feature ratio is favorable, making it an attractive option for consumers seeking a versatile and effective cleaning solution without breaking the bank.
The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400, as an older model, may be found at a lower price point, potentially under $150. While it lacks some of the advanced features of the Shark, it still provides good cleaning performance and lightweight maneuverability for the price. Budget-conscious buyers may find it a compelling option, especially if they prioritize affordability over specialized features.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Navigator DLX features a modern design with a detachable pod for Lift-Away cleaning. Its construction feels durable, and the swivel steering enhances maneuverability. However, some users find its bulkier design challenging in tight spaces. The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 boasts a sleek, compact design that prioritizes lightweight maneuverability. Its build quality is acceptable for its price point, though it may not feel as robust as the Shark. The Hoover’s smaller size makes it easy to store in closets and tight spaces.
Performance Face-Off
Carpet Cleaning
The Shark Navigator DLX performs well on both low-pile and high-pile carpets, effectively removing pet hair and most large debris. However, it may struggle with fine debris on high-pile carpets. The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 also offers respectable carpet cleaning performance, particularly on low-pile carpets. However, some reviews indicate it may not be as effective on thicker carpets.
Hard Floor Cleaning
The Shark Navigator DLX performs adequately on bare floors, though larger debris may get trapped at the back of the floorhead. Its floorhead sits close to the floor, potentially pushing some debris around instead of picking it up. The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 has a brush roll shutoff, making it suitable for hard floor cleaning. However, some users have reported uneven suction power, which may affect its performance on hard floors.
Pet Hair Removal
Both vacuums are capable of removing pet hair from carpets and upholstery. The Shark Navigator DLX includes a dedicated pet power brush, which may provide a slight advantage in tackling stubborn pet hair.
Special Features Comparison
Shark Navigator DLX:
- Lift-Away Technology: Detach the canister for portable cleaning on stairs, upholstery, and above-floor areas.
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control for maneuvering around furniture.
Hoover Windtunnel UH70400:
- Windtunnel Technology: Lifts and removes surface debris and deep-down embedded dirt.
- Deep Recline Handle: Reclines flat to clean under furniture.
Usability and User Experience
The Shark Navigator DLX is generally easy to use, with intuitive controls and a convenient Lift-Away feature. However, some users may find it slightly heavy and bulky to maneuver, especially in tight spaces. The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 shines in terms of usability due to its lightweight design and maneuverability. It’s easy to carry up and down stairs, and its compact size allows it to fit under furniture and into corners. However, some users have reported difficulty attaching and detaching the hose for tool use.
Maintenance and Longevity
The Shark Navigator DLX requires regular cleaning of its filters and brushroll. While it has a 5-year warranty, some users have reported issues with its long-term durability. The Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 also requires regular filter cleaning. It comes with a 2-year warranty, and some users have reported issues with the hose and attachments.
- Homeowners who need a versatile vacuum for both floors and above-floor cleaning.
- Pet owners who need a powerful vacuum with specialized pet hair removal tools.
- Allergy sufferers who want a vacuum with HEPA filtration and a sealed system.
Who Should Buy the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400?
- Apartment dwellers or those with smaller homes who need a lightweight and compact vacuum.
- Budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable cleaning solution at an affordable price.
- Individuals who prioritize ease of use and maneuverability over advanced features.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark Navigator DLX and Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 offer compelling features and benefits for their respective target audiences. The Shark Navigator DLX stands out with its Lift-Away feature, powerful suction, and specialized pet tools, making it a versatile choice for homeowners with diverse cleaning needs. On the other hand, the Hoover Windtunnel UH70400 excels in lightweight maneuverability and affordability, making it a practical option for smaller homes and budget-conscious buyers. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual priorities and cleaning requirements.
