The Shark NV358 Navigator Lift-Away vacuum has been a popular choice for homeowners seeking a versatile and affordable cleaning solution for years. Its signature Lift-Away design, coupled with strong suction power, promises to make cleaning both floors and above-floor surfaces a breeze. While newer models have since emerged, the NV358 remains a readily available and budget-friendly option, begging the question: does it still hold up in today’s market? This review delves into the vacuum’s design, performance, and overall value to help you determine if the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV358 is the right cleaning tool for your needs.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV358 aims to provide the cleaning power of an upright vacuum with the flexibility of a canister model. Its standout feature is the Lift-Away pod, allowing users to detach the canister from the main unit for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas. This, combined with swivel steering and a range of attachments, makes it a multifaceted cleaner for various household tasks. However, in a market saturated with advanced features like self-cleaning brush rolls and cordless designs, the NV358 faces stiff competition. Let’s see if its core functionality and affordability can still win over consumers.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Pros: Lightweight and maneuverable; excellent suction power on bare floors and carpets; Lift-Away feature provides versatility; affordable price point.
- Cons: Small dustbin capacity; lacks advanced features like HEPA filtration; brush roll can get tangled with hair; can be noisy during operation.
- Good For: Budget-conscious individuals, small to medium-sized homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors, and those needing a versatile vacuum for both floor and above-floor cleaning.
- Verdict: The Shark NV358 Navigator Lift-Away remains a capable and affordable vacuum for basic cleaning needs. While it lacks some modern features, its strong suction and versatile design make it a solid choice for budget-minded consumers. 7.8/10
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | NV358 |
| Vacuum Type | Upright Lift-Away |
| Weight | 12.5 lbs |
| Dustbin Capacity | 1.2 dry quarts |
| Cord Length | 25 feet |
| Filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
| Attachments | Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool |
| Cleaning Path Width | 9.5 inches |
| Amperage | 10 amps |
| Voltage | 120V |
Price and Availability
The Shark NV358 Navigator Lift-Away vacuum is widely available at major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Pricing typically ranges from $130 to $170, making it one of the more affordable upright vacuums on the market. Keep an eye out for deals and discounts, especially during holiday sales events. Bundles that include additional attachments may also be available. Prices may also vary from different retailers.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV358 sports a practical, lightweight design. Weighing in at just 12.5 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver around furniture and carry up stairs. The Lift-Away feature is well-executed, allowing for quick conversion to a portable canister vacuum. The build quality is decent for its price point, using mostly plastic components. While it may not feel as robust as higher-end models, it’s sturdy enough for regular use.
Compared to previous Shark models like the NV356E, the NV358 offers similar functionality with slight design tweaks. However, it lacks some of the enhanced features found in newer Shark vacuums, such as the DuoClean brush roll or Zero-M anti-hair wrap technology. The dustbin, with a capacity of 1.2 dry quarts, is on the smaller side and may require frequent emptying during larger cleaning sessions. The 25-foot power cord provides a decent reach, but some users may find it limiting in larger homes.
Performance and Features
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV358 excels in its core function: providing strong suction for effective cleaning. It performs admirably on both bare floors and carpets, picking up dirt, dust, and debris with ease. However, its performance can vary depending on the specific type of flooring and the attachments used.
Suction Power
The NV358’s 10-amp motor delivers impressive suction, making it effective at removing embedded dirt from carpets. On bare floors, the suction is strong enough to pick up fine dust and larger particles without scattering them. The ability to switch between carpet and hard floor settings helps optimize suction for different surfaces.
Bare Floor Cleaning
On hardwood and tile floors, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV358 performs well, effectively capturing dust and debris. The suction doesn’t blast items around, and the brush roll can be turned off to prevent scattering on delicate surfaces. A soft brush attachment, if available, can further enhance bare floor cleaning.
Carpet Cleaning
The NV358 does a solid job on carpets, lifting dirt and pet hair effectively. The motorized brush roll agitates carpet fibers to loosen debris, while the strong suction pulls it into the dustbin. However, on high-pile carpets, the vacuum may require multiple passes to achieve optimal cleaning.
Pet Hair Removal
Pet owners will appreciate the NV358’s ability to tackle pet hair. The strong suction and motorized brush roll work together to lift hair from carpets and upholstery. However, the brush roll can become tangled with long hair, requiring occasional cleaning. Consider purchasing a model with an anti-hair wrap brush roll if pet hair is a major concern.
Attachments and Accessories
The NV358 typically comes with a dusting brush and a crevice tool. These attachments are useful for cleaning furniture, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas. The Lift-Away feature further enhances versatility, allowing you to carry the canister and attachments for convenient above-floor cleaning.
Battery Life
The Shark NV358 Navigator Lift-Away is a corded vacuum, so battery life is not applicable. The 25-foot power cord provides a decent cleaning radius, but some users may find it limiting in larger homes.
Software and User Experience
Since the Shark NV358 is a vacuum, it doesn’t rely on software for functionality. The user experience is straightforward and intuitive. The Lift-Away feature is easy to use, and the controls are simple and accessible. The vacuum is relatively easy to assemble and disassemble for cleaning and maintenance.
Comparison to Competitors
Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach offers similar features and performance to the Shark NV358, with a focus on pet hair removal. It includes a specialized pet turbo brush and a hands-free emptying system. However, the Bissell may not be as versatile as the Shark in terms of above-floor cleaning.
Dyson V8 Absolute
The Dyson V8 Absolute is a cordless stick vacuum that offers superior performance and convenience compared to the Shark NV358. It features a powerful motor, HEPA filtration, and a range of attachments. However, the Dyson comes at a significantly higher price point.
Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum
The Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum is a budget-friendly canister vacuum that offers good suction power and maneuverability. It’s a lightweight and compact option for small apartments and homes. However, it lacks the versatility of the Shark’s Lift-Away feature and may not perform as well on carpets.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price
- Strong suction power
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Lift-Away feature for versatile cleaning
- Good performance on bare floors and carpets
Cons:
- Small dustbin capacity
- Lacks HEPA filtration
- Brush roll can tangle with hair
- Can be noisy during operation
- Limited reach with 25-foot cord
Value for Money
The Shark NV358 Navigator Lift-Away offers excellent value for money. Its combination of strong suction, versatile design, and affordable price make it a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. While it lacks some of the advanced features found in higher-end models, it provides reliable cleaning performance for everyday needs.
This vacuum is ideal for individuals and families looking for an affordable and versatile cleaning solution. It’s particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors. However, those with large homes, severe allergies, or a strong preference for cordless convenience may want to consider other options.
Verdict
The Shark NV358 Navigator Lift-Away is a reliable and affordable vacuum that still holds its own in today’s market. Its strong suction, versatile Lift-Away design, and lightweight maneuverability make it a solid choice for budget-minded consumers. While it may lack some of the bells and whistles of newer models, its core cleaning performance is commendable. The Shark NV358 earns a final score of 7.8/10.
