The Shark NV501 and NV751 are two popular upright vacuums designed for whole-home cleaning. Both models boast Shark’s signature Rotator technology, Lift-Away functionality, and HEPA filtration, making them attractive options for consumers seeking powerful suction and versatile cleaning capabilities. Understanding the nuances between these models is key to selecting the best vacuum for your specific needs.
These vacuums target homeowners and apartment dwellers who want a powerful, versatile, and easy-to-use cleaning solution. Pet owners will also find these vacuums appealing due to their strong suction and specialized attachments for removing pet hair. While both vacuums offer excellent cleaning performance, they differ in key areas such as suction power, included attachments, and maneuverability, making one potentially more suitable than the other depending on your cleaning requirements.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark NV501
- Short Review of Shark NV751
- 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 NV501?
- Who Should Buy the Shark NV751?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For pet owners and deep cleaning: The NV751 is the better choice due to its stronger suction and specialized pet hair attachments.
- For versatility and ease of use: The NV501 is lighter and more maneuverable, making it ideal for smaller spaces and those who prefer a lighter machine.
- For bare floor cleaning: NV751 stands out with its superior performance in cleaning bare floors.
- For budget-conscious shoppers: The NV501 is generally more affordable, offering excellent value for its features.
Short Review of Shark NV501
The Shark Rotator NV501 Lift-Away is a versatile 3-in-1 upright vacuum cleaner known for its powerful suction and maneuverability. It features a detachable canister, allowing for portable cleaning of stairs and upholstery. Its advanced brushroll technology ensures thorough cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. The NV501 also boasts excellent filtration, making it suitable for allergy sufferers.
This model stands out for its lightweight design and swivel steering, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. It includes LED headlights to illuminate hidden debris and comes with various attachments for different cleaning tasks. The NV501’s “Lift-Away” feature allows users to detach the canister for convenient cleaning of stairs, furniture, and other hard-to-reach areas. It is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and effective cleaning solution at a reasonable price.
Short Review of Shark NV751
The Shark Rotator NV751 Powered Lift-Away is a powerful upright vacuum designed for deep cleaning and pet hair removal. It features stronger suction than the NV501 and comes with a motorized brushroll that is equally good on carpets and hard floors. The NV751 also includes a Powered Lift-Away function that allows you to detach the canister while maintaining power to the brushroll.
The NV751 excels in removing pet hair and dirt from carpets, thanks to its enhanced suction power and specialized pet tools. It also features LED lights on both the nozzle and handle, providing better visibility in dark areas. The NV751 is equipped with HEPA filtration and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, making it ideal for households with allergy sufferers. While it may be slightly heavier than the NV501, its powerful cleaning performance and additional features make it a top choice for those with demanding cleaning needs.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Suction Power: NV751 has stronger suction, making it better for deep cleaning and pet hair removal.
- Attachments: NV751 includes more specialized attachments, such as a pet power brush and LED lights on the handle.
- Weight: NV501 is lighter and easier to maneuver, especially in smaller spaces.
- Filtration: NV751 typically boasts a higher filtration system, beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Price: NV501 is generally more affordable than the NV751.
- Brushroll: NV751 has a motorized brushroll that maintains power even in Lift-Away mode.
- Bare Floor Performance: NV751 offers superior performance on bare floors.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark NV501 | Shark NV751 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | Rotator Professional Lift-Away | Rotator Powered Lift-Away |
| Type | Upright | Upright |
| Cord Length | 25 feet | 30 feet |
| Weight | 15.5 pounds | 15.4 pounds |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 1.3 quarts | 1.5 quarts |
| Filtration | HEPA | HEPA with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Lift-Away | Yes | Yes, Powered Lift-Away |
| Brushroll On/Off | Yes | Yes |
| LED Lights | On Nozzle | On Nozzle and Handle |
| Attachments | Dusting brush, crevice tool, upholstery tool | Pet multi-tool, 12″ crevice tool |
| Dimensions | 13.2″ L x 12.1″ W x 45.7″ H | 13.2″L x 11.9″W x 45″H |
| Power | 1200 watts | 1150 watts |
| Cleaning Path Width | 11 inches | 8.6 inches |
Price Comparison
The Shark NV501 is typically priced around $269.99, while the NV751 averages around $279.99. However, prices may vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. The NV501 offers excellent value for its features, making it a budget-friendly option. The NV751, while slightly more expensive, provides additional features and stronger suction, which may justify the higher price for some users.
Design and Build Quality
Both the NV501 and NV751 feature a similar upright design with a detachable canister for Lift-Away functionality. The NV501 is slightly smaller and lighter, making it easier to maneuver. Both vacuums are made of durable plastic and have a sturdy construction. The NV751 has a rose gunmetal finish, while the NV501 comes in red and white. Customer reviews indicate that both models are well-built and reliable.
Performance Face-Off
Carpet Cleaning
Both vacuums perform well on carpets, but the NV751’s stronger suction gives it an edge in deep cleaning and removing embedded dirt and pet hair. The NV501 is still effective on carpets, especially low-pile ones, but may require more passes to achieve the same level of cleanliness as the NV751.
Hard Floor Cleaning
The NV751 stands out with its superior performance in cleaning bare floors, effectively picking up both fine and large debris. The NV501 is also good for hard floors but may struggle with larger debris.
Pet Hair Removal
The NV751 is the clear winner in pet hair removal due to its stronger suction and specialized pet power brush. It efficiently removes pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and hard floors. The NV501 can also handle pet hair, but may not be as effective on thick carpets or heavily soiled areas.
Edge Cleaning
Both vacuums have decent edge cleaning capabilities, but the NV751’s more powerful suction allows it to reach closer to edges and corners.
Special Features Comparison
- Shark NV501:
- 3-in-1 Design: Upright, Lift-Away, and canister modes for versatile cleaning.
- Swivel Steering: Excellent maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces.
- LED Headlights: Illuminate hidden debris for thorough cleaning.
- Shark NV751:
- Powered Lift-Away: Maintains power to the brushroll in Lift-Away mode for continuous cleaning.
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- LED Lights on Handle: Additional lighting for above-floor cleaning.
Usability and User Experience
Both vacuums are easy to use and have a similar user experience. The Lift-Away feature makes it simple to switch between upright and portable cleaning modes. The NV501’s lighter weight makes it easier to carry and maneuver, while the NV751’s powered brushroll in Lift-Away mode provides continuous cleaning power. Both models have easy-to-empty dust cups and washable filters. The NV751 has a longer cord, which may be more convenient for larger homes.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both vacuums require regular maintenance, including emptying the dust cup and cleaning the filters. The filters should be washed every 3 months and replaced every 12 months. Customer reviews suggest that both models are durable and long-lasting with proper care. Some users have reported issues with hair tangling in the brushroll, but this can be easily resolved by regularly cleaning the brushroll.
Who Should Buy the Shark NV501?
- Those who want a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum.
- Those who have smaller homes or apartments.
- Those who are on a budget.
- Those who need a versatile vacuum for both carpets and hard floors.
Who Should Buy the Shark NV751?
- Pet owners who need a powerful vacuum for pet hair removal.
- Those who have larger homes with more carpeted areas.
- Those who suffer from allergies and need a vacuum with HEPA filtration and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology.
- Those who want the convenience of a powered brushroll in Lift-Away mode.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark NV501 and NV751 are excellent upright vacuums that offer powerful suction and versatile cleaning capabilities. The NV751 is the better choice for pet owners and those who need a more powerful vacuum for deep cleaning. The NV501 is a great option for those who want a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum at a reasonable price. Ultimately, the best vacuum for you will depend on your specific cleaning needs and budget.
