The Shark NV601UK and NV681UK are both popular corded upright vacuum cleaners offering Shark’s signature Lift-Away technology, which allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning. These models target homeowners seeking powerful suction and versatility for cleaning various surfaces, from carpets and hard floors to stairs and upholstery. Choosing between them depends on specific cleaning needs and preferences, particularly regarding specialized tools and features.
Both vacuums aim to provide a convenient and effective cleaning experience with features like swivel steering, LED headlights, and a long power cord. They compete in a market segment dominated by brands like Dyson and Hoover, offering a compelling alternative with innovative designs and competitive pricing. Consumers often weigh factors like suction power, ease of use, included accessories, and overall value when deciding between these two Shark models.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark NV601UK
- Short Review of Shark NV681UK
- 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 NV601UK?
- Who Should Buy the Shark NV681UK?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For pet owners: The NV681UK, often marketed as the “Pet” version, typically includes a specialized pet tool, making it the better choice for homes with pets.
- For budget-conscious buyers: The NV601UK is generally more affordable while still providing excellent cleaning performance.
- For those prioritizing convenience: Both offer Lift-Away, but consider the NV681UK for its potentially enhanced feature set depending on the specific retailer bundle.
Short Review of Shark NV601UK
The Shark NV601UK is a corded upright vacuum cleaner known for its powerful suction and Lift-Away technology. This allows for easy conversion to a portable vacuum for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas. It excels at cleaning both carpets and hard floors, making it a versatile option for various homes.
Users appreciate its lightweight design and swivel steering, which enhance maneuverability around furniture. The NV601UK also features LED headlights to illuminate dark areas, ensuring thorough cleaning. Its bagless design and easy-to-empty dust cup add to the convenience, making it a practical choice for everyday cleaning tasks.
Short Review of Shark NV681UK
The Shark NV681UK is a step up from the NV601UK, offering similar features like Lift-Away technology and powerful suction, but often includes additional tools and enhanced capabilities. Marketed as a pet-specific model, it typically comes with a motorized pet tool designed to effectively remove pet hair from carpets and upholstery.
The NV681UK stands out with its enhanced filtration system, which captures more dust and allergens, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. Its larger dust cup capacity reduces the frequency of emptying, further adding to user convenience. With its combination of power, versatility, and specialized tools, the NV681UK offers a comprehensive cleaning solution for homes with pets and those seeking superior performance.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Pet Tool: NV681UK typically includes a motorized pet tool, while NV601UK may have a standard pet tool or none at all.
- Filtration: NV681UK often features an enhanced filtration system compared to NV601UK.
- Dust Cup Capacity: NV681UK generally has a larger dust cup capacity, reducing the need for frequent emptying.
- Price: NV601UK is usually more affordable than NV681UK.
- Weight: The NV601UK is lighter than the NV681UK
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark NV601UK | Shark NV681UK |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner |
| Technology | Lift-Away | Lift-Away |
| Weight | 6.3 kg | Approximately 6.8 kg |
| Power Cord Length | 8 meters | 8 meters |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.83 liters | 1.3 liters |
| Filtration | Standard HEPA | Enhanced HEPA with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Included Tools | Crevice tool, Dusting brush | Crevice tool, Dusting brush, Motorized pet tool, Hard floor tool (may vary) |
| Headlights | Yes | Yes |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Motor Power | 750W | 750W |
Price Comparison
The Shark NV601UK is typically priced lower, often around £150-£200, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The NV681UK, with its additional features and tools, generally retails for £200-£280. The value proposition depends on whether the extra tools and enhanced filtration justify the higher cost for the user.
Design and Build Quality
Both the NV601UK and NV681UK share a similar design, featuring a sturdy plastic construction and the Lift-Away mechanism. The NV681UK may have slightly better build quality with more robust components, but both are designed to withstand regular use. Ergonomically, both models are similar, with comfortable handles and easy-to-use controls.
Performance Face-Off
Suction Power
Both models offer strong suction power, effectively cleaning various surfaces. User reviews suggest that the NV681UK may have slightly stronger suction, particularly when using the motorized pet tool.
Carpet Cleaning
Both perform well on carpets, removing dirt, dust, and debris effectively. The NV681UK’s motorized pet tool gives it an edge in removing embedded pet hair.
Hard Floor Cleaning
Both models can clean hard floors, but the NV681UK may include a specialized hard floor tool for improved performance, preventing scratches and effectively picking up fine dust.
Pet Hair Removal
The NV681UK, with its dedicated motorized pet tool, excels in removing pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces. While the NV601UK can handle pet hair, it may require more passes and isn’t as efficient.
Special Features Comparison
- NV601UK: Primarily focuses on essential cleaning with Lift-Away and standard tools.
- NV681UK: Includes specialized pet tool, enhanced filtration, and potentially a hard floor tool, offering a more comprehensive cleaning solution.
Usability and User Experience
Both models are easy to use, with simple controls and the Lift-Away feature enhancing versatility. The NV601UK’s lighter weight makes it slightly more maneuverable, while the NV681UK’s larger dust cup reduces the frequency of emptying.
Maintenance and Longevity
Both vacuums require regular maintenance, including emptying the dust cup, cleaning filters, and removing hair from the brush roll. The NV681UK’s enhanced filtration system may require more frequent filter cleaning. Both models come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty, and their lifespan depends on usage and maintenance.
Who Should Buy the Shark NV601UK?
- Budget-conscious buyers seeking a powerful and versatile vacuum cleaner.
- Users who need a lightweight and maneuverable vacuum for everyday cleaning.
- Individuals without pets or with minimal pet hair concerns.
Who Should Buy the Shark NV681UK?
- Pet owners needing a specialized tool for effective pet hair removal.
- Allergy sufferers who require enhanced filtration to capture dust and allergens.
- Those willing to invest more for additional tools and superior cleaning performance.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark NV601UK and NV681UK are excellent vacuum cleaners, but the best choice depends on individual needs. The NV601UK offers great value for budget-conscious buyers, while the NV681UK provides a more comprehensive cleaning solution with its specialized tools and enhanced features, making it ideal for pet owners and allergy sufferers. If pet hair removal and superior filtration are priorities, the NV681UK is worth the extra investment. Otherwise, the NV601UK remains a solid choice for everyday cleaning tasks.
