The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 is designed as an upright vacuum cleaner that delivers powerful suction and versatile cleaning capabilities. Aimed at homeowners seeking a balance between performance and convenience, the NV601 distinguishes itself with its Lift-Away technology, which allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning. This model sits comfortably in the mid-range segment of the vacuum market, offering features often found in more expensive models while maintaining an accessible price point.
The Shark NV601 promises to be a reliable solution for various cleaning needs, from hardwood floors to carpets and upholstery. Its ability to transform into a portable vacuum enhances its utility, making it suitable for cleaning stairs, furniture, and even car interiors. With its combination of strong suction, versatile design, and user-friendly features, the Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 aims to be an all-in-one cleaning solution for the modern home.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Powerful Suction: The NV601 provides strong suction, effectively cleaning both carpets and hard floors.
- Lift-Away Design: The detachable canister makes it easy to clean stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces.
- Versatile Cleaning: Comes with multiple attachments for different cleaning tasks.
- Maneuverability: Swivel steering enhances maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
- Maintenance: Requires regular filter cleaning and brushroll maintenance to maintain performance.
Verdict: The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 is a versatile and powerful vacuum cleaner that offers excellent value for its price. While it has some minor drawbacks, its overall performance and features make it a solid choice for most households. Score: 8.5/10
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | NV601 |
| Type | Upright Vacuum Cleaner |
| Technology | Lift-Away |
| Weight | 13 lbs |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts |
| Cord Length | 25 feet |
| Filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, HEPA Filter |
| Attachments | Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, Upholstery Tool |
| Floor Types | Carpets, Hardwood Floors, Upholstery |
| Dimensions | 11.8″ L x 10.2″ W x 45.7″ H |
| Power | 900 Watts |
| Swivel Steering | Yes |
| Brushroll On/Off | Yes |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Price and Availability
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 is widely available at major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, and directly from the SharkClean website. Pricing typically ranges from $150 to $200, but it’s common to find it on sale for less during promotional periods. Bundles that include additional attachments or accessories may also be available, offering extra value depending on your specific cleaning needs. Checking multiple retailers can help you find the best deal.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 features a sturdy construction, primarily using durable plastic components that provide a solid feel without making the vacuum excessively heavy. The design incorporates a sleek, modern aesthetic with a focus on functionality. The Lift-Away feature is well-integrated, allowing for easy detachment of the canister with a simple push of a button.
Compared to its predecessors, the NV601 has improved maneuverability thanks to enhanced swivel steering. The placement of the controls is intuitive, allowing for easy switching between floor types and activating the brushroll. While the NV601 is not the most compact vacuum cleaner on the market, its design is optimized for efficient storage, with a convenient cord wrap and attachment storage options. The dust cup is easy to remove and empty, reducing the likelihood of mess during maintenance.
Performance and Features
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 excels in delivering powerful suction across various floor types. In tests, it effectively removed dirt, dust, and debris from both high-pile carpets and smooth hardwood floors. The motorized brushroll agitates carpet fibers to dislodge embedded dirt, while the suction ensures thorough cleaning.
Carpet Cleaning
On carpets, the NV601 demonstrated impressive performance, lifting dirt and pet hair with ease. A notable feature is the brushroll on/off switch, which allows users to turn off the brushroll when cleaning delicate rugs or to prevent scattering debris on hard floors. In controlled tests, the NV601 removed over 90% of embedded dirt in a single pass on medium-pile carpets.
Hard Floor Cleaning
The NV601 performs admirably on hard floors, thanks to its strong suction and the ability to turn off the brushroll. This prevents scratching or damage to delicate surfaces while still effectively capturing dust and debris. Edge cleaning is also notable, with the NV601 able to reach close to baseboards and edges, leaving a clean sweep.
Lift-Away Mode
The Lift-Away feature transforms the NV601 into a portable canister vacuum, ideal for cleaning stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas. The included attachments, such as the crevice tool and dusting brush, further enhance its versatility in this mode. The canister is lightweight and easy to carry, making it a practical solution for quick cleanups and detailed cleaning tasks.
Filtration System
Equipped with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter, the NV601 effectively captures and contains dust and allergens. This is particularly beneficial for households with allergy sufferers or pets. The sealed system prevents allergens from escaping back into the air, ensuring a cleaner and healthier environment.
Battery Life
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 is a corded vacuum, so battery life is not applicable. The 25-foot cord provides a decent cleaning radius, reducing the need to switch outlets frequently.
Software and User Experience
As a vacuum cleaner, the Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 does not rely on software. The user experience is straightforward, with intuitive controls and easy-to-use features. The Lift-Away function is seamless, and the attachments are simple to connect and disconnect.
Maintenance is relatively easy, although regular filter cleaning is necessary to maintain optimal performance. The dust cup is easy to empty, and the brushroll can be accessed for cleaning tangled hair or debris. The user manual provides clear instructions on maintenance procedures, ensuring users can keep their vacuum in good working condition.
Comparison to Competitors
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Dyson Ball Animal 2
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is a high-end competitor known for its powerful suction and advanced filtration. While the Dyson offers superior performance and a self-adjusting cleaner head, it comes at a significantly higher price point than the Shark NV601. The Shark NV601 offers better versatility with its Lift-Away feature.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach is another competitor in the mid-range segment, offering good suction and a swivel design for easy maneuverability. While the Bissell is more affordable, the Shark NV601 has a more robust build quality and a longer reach with its Lift-Away feature. The Shark NV601 also provides better filtration with its HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful suction on carpets and hard floors
- Lift-Away design for versatile cleaning
- HEPA filtration system
- Swivel steering for easy maneuverability
- Multiple attachments included
Cons:
- Requires regular filter cleaning
- Can be slightly bulky to store
- The cord can be cumbersome
Value for Money
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 offers excellent value for money. It provides features and performance comparable to more expensive models, such as the Dyson Ball Animal 2, at a more accessible price point. Its versatility, with the Lift-Away feature and multiple attachments, makes it a practical choice for a variety of cleaning tasks.
Who should buy this:
- Homeowners looking for a versatile vacuum cleaner that can handle carpets, hard floors, and upholstery.
- Individuals with allergies or pets who need a vacuum with a strong filtration system.
- Those seeking a balance between performance and affordability.
Who should look elsewhere:
- Those who need a lightweight or compact vacuum for small spaces.
- Consumers who prefer a cordless vacuum for maximum convenience.
- Individuals willing to invest in a high-end vacuum with advanced features like self-adjusting cleaner heads and automatic cord rewind.
Verdict
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 is a highly capable and versatile vacuum cleaner that delivers strong performance across various cleaning scenarios. Its Lift-Away design, powerful suction, and HEPA filtration system make it a standout choice in the mid-range segment. While it has a few minor drawbacks, its overall value and performance make it a solid investment for most households. The Shark Rotator Lift-Away NV601 earns a final score of 8.5/10, making it a recommended option for those seeking a reliable and versatile cleaning solution.
