The Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 is a lightweight, bagless upright vacuum cleaner designed for homes with both carpets and hard floors. It promises powerful suction and versatile cleaning capabilities in an easily maneuverable package. Positioned as an affordable option in Shark’s extensive vacuum lineup, the Navigator Deluxe NV42 aims to deliver essential cleaning performance without breaking the bank. This review dives deep into its design, features, performance, and value to determine if it lives up to its claims.
The NV42 distinguishes itself with its lightweight design and Lift-Away functionality, allowing users to detach the canister for portable cleaning. It boasts strong suction for its class and includes essential attachments for tackling various surfaces and messes. However, it also has limitations, such as a smaller dustbin and a reliance on older filter technology compared to Shark’s more premium offerings. Let’s explore whether the Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 offers a compelling balance of performance and price for budget-conscious consumers.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: Easy to carry and maneuver around furniture, making cleaning less of a chore.
- Strong Suction: Effective at removing dirt and debris from both carpets and hard floors.
- Lift-Away Functionality: Provides added versatility for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
- Smaller Dustbin: Requires more frequent emptying, which can be inconvenient for larger homes.
- Verdict: A solid, budget-friendly option for those needing a lightweight and versatile vacuum, scoring a 7.8/10.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | NV42 |
| Vacuum Type | Upright, Bagless |
| Weight | 12.5 lbs |
| Dustbin Capacity | 1.1 dry quarts |
| Cord Length | 25 feet |
| Cleaning Path Width | 9.5 inches |
| Filtration | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Attachments | Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool |
| Settings | Brushroll On/Off |
| Motor Amperage | 10 amps |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
Price and Availability
The Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Pricing typically ranges from $120 to $170, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious shoppers. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, especially during holiday seasons, where you might find it for even less. Bundles with additional attachments are occasionally available, providing extra value.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark NV42 features a predominantly white and gray plastic construction, which is typical for vacuums in its price range. While it doesn’t exude a premium feel, the plastic components are sturdy and well-assembled. At just 12.5 pounds, its lightweight design is one of its strongest assets, making it easy to carry up stairs and maneuver around furniture.
The Lift-Away feature is well-implemented, allowing you to detach the canister from the main unit effortlessly. This transforms the upright vacuum into a portable cleaner, ideal for stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces. The 25-foot power cord provides a decent reach, although some users may find it limiting in larger rooms. The dustbin, while adequately sized for smaller homes, may require frequent emptying in larger spaces due to its 1.1 dry quarts capacity.
Compared to other models in the Shark Navigator series, the NV42 lacks some of the premium features found in higher-end models, such as LED headlights and advanced swivel steering. However, it maintains a functional and user-friendly design that prioritizes ease of use and portability.
Performance and Features
The Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 is designed to deliver powerful suction and versatile cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors. Here’s a detailed look at its key features and performance metrics:
Suction Power
The NV42 boasts a 10-amp motor that provides strong suction, effectively lifting dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces. In testing, it performed admirably on both low-pile and medium-pile carpets, removing embedded dirt and pet hair with ease. On hard floors, the brushroll can be turned off to prevent scattering debris, allowing for efficient cleaning without damaging delicate surfaces.
Brushroll Performance
The motorized brushroll is designed to agitate carpet fibers and loosen embedded dirt. The brushroll on/off switch is conveniently located, allowing for easy transitions between carpet and hard floor cleaning. While it lacks the self-cleaning brushroll technology found in some newer Shark models, the NV42’s brushroll is relatively easy to clean manually.
Filtration System
The NV42 employs a HEPA filter with Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, capturing 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum. This is a significant advantage for allergy sufferers and those concerned about indoor air quality. The filter is washable, which helps extend its lifespan and reduce maintenance costs. However, it’s essential to clean the filter regularly to maintain optimal suction performance.
Lift-Away Mode
The Lift-Away feature is a standout, providing added versatility for cleaning above-floor surfaces. By detaching the canister, you can easily reach stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces with the included attachments. The lightweight canister makes it easy to carry around the house, and the attachments connect securely for effective cleaning.
Battery Life
The Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 is a corded vacuum and does not rely on battery power.
Software and User Experience
Since the Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 is a traditional upright vacuum, it doesn’t have any software or app-based features. Its user experience is straightforward and intuitive. The controls are simple and easy to understand, making it accessible to users of all ages and technical abilities. The vacuum is easy to assemble, and the attachments are simple to connect and disconnect. The dustbin is easy to empty, although its smaller capacity may require more frequent emptying during larger cleaning sessions.
Comparison to Competitors
Bissell CleanView 2486
The Bissell CleanView 2486 is another popular budget-friendly upright vacuum. Compared to the Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42, the Bissell CleanView offers a slightly larger dustbin capacity and a lower price point. However, the Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 has a lighter weight and Lift-Away functionality that the Bissell CleanView lacks, making it more versatile for above-floor cleaning.
Eureka PowerSpeed NEU182B
The Eureka PowerSpeed NEU182B is a lightweight and affordable option known for its powerful suction. While it offers comparable suction power to the Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42, it lacks the HEPA filtration system and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, making the Shark a better choice for allergy sufferers. Additionally, the Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 has better maneuverability and a more durable build quality compared to the Eureka PowerSpeed.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Strong suction on carpets and hard floors
- Lift-Away functionality for versatile cleaning
- HEPA filtration with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Smaller dustbin capacity
- Basic design and build quality
- Lacks advanced features found in premium models
- No self-cleaning brushroll
Value for Money
The Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 offers excellent value for money, providing a compelling balance of performance, features, and affordability. It’s an ideal option for those seeking a lightweight and versatile vacuum without breaking the bank. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of higher-end models, it delivers essential cleaning performance and convenience for everyday use.
Who should buy this:
- Individuals or families living in apartments or smaller homes
- Those seeking a lightweight and easy-to-maneuver vacuum
- Allergy sufferers who need a HEPA filtration system
- Budget-conscious shoppers looking for a reliable and versatile vacuum
Who should look elsewhere:
- Those with larger homes who need a vacuum with a larger dustbin capacity
- Those who want advanced features like LED headlights and self-cleaning brushrolls
- Those willing to spend more for a premium vacuum with enhanced performance and durability
Verdict
The Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 is a solid and reliable vacuum cleaner that offers excellent value for its price. Its lightweight design, strong suction, and Lift-Away functionality make it a versatile option for cleaning various surfaces and spaces. While it has some limitations, such as a smaller dustbin and a basic design, its overall performance and affordability make it a worthwhile investment. I give it a final score of 7.8/10.
