The Bissell Model 1701 and the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro are two of the most popular upright vacuums on the market, each offering powerful cleaning capabilities and a range of features designed to tackle dirt, dust, and pet hair with ease. Both models have earned a reputation for reliability and effectiveness, making them go-to choices for homeowners seeking a versatile cleaning solution. In this review, we’ll dive deep into their specifications, performance, design, and value, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which vacuum is the better fit for your needs.

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These vacuums aim to strike a balance between performance and affordability. The Bissell 1701 is known for its specialized pet hair cleaning tools and multi-surface capabilities, while the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro stands out with its lightweight design and powerful suction. With a thorough analysis, we’ll see how these two models compare in real-world scenarios, helping you make an informed decision for your cleaning needs.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Bissell Model 1701: Excellent for pet owners, featuring specialized tools and strong performance on carpets and hard floors. However, it can be heavier and slightly less maneuverable than the Shark.
- Shark Navigator Swivel Pro: Lightweight and highly maneuverable, with powerful suction and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. Its dust cup is easy to empty, but it may struggle slightly more with embedded pet hair compared to the Bissell.
- Build Quality: The Bissell boasts a sturdy build, while the Shark emphasizes lighter materials for ease of use.
- Value: Both vacuums offer excellent value for money, but the best choice depends on specific cleaning needs, such as pet hair versus general maneuverability.
- Verdict: Both vacuums score an 8.5/10, with the choice depending on individual priorities—pet owners may prefer the Bissell, while those valuing maneuverability and ease of use may lean towards the Shark.
Specifications
Feature | Bissell Model 1701 | Shark Navigator Swivel Pro |
---|---|---|
Type | Upright | Upright |
Weight | 18 lbs | 12.5 lbs |
Cord Length | 27 feet | 25 feet |
Dust Cup Capacity | 1 liter | 1.2 quarts (1.1 liters) |
Filtration | Multi-Level Filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
Brushroll On/Off | Yes | Yes |
Attachments | TurboBrush Tool, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush | Pet Power Brush, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush |
Stair Cleaning | Yes, with hose and attachments | Yes, with hose and attachments |
Floor Types | Carpet, Hardwood, Tile | Carpet, Hardwood, Tile |
Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes |
Dimensions | 13 x 12 x 44 inches | 11.8 x 11.5 x 45.7 inches |
Warranty | 2-Year Limited | 5-Year Limited |
Additional Features | Febreze Filter | Lift-Away Canister |
Price and Availability
The Bissell Model 1701 and the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro are widely available at major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Best Buy.
- Bissell Model 1701: Typically priced between \$150 and \$200, depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions. Check for bundle deals that include additional filters or cleaning solutions.
- Shark Navigator Swivel Pro: Generally ranges from \$160 to \$220. Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or refurbished options that can offer significant savings.
Design and Build Quality
Bissell Model 1701
The Bissell Model 1701 features a robust design, built to withstand frequent use. The materials used are primarily durable plastics, which give it a sturdy feel. The vacuum is equipped with a swivel steering mechanism, enhancing its maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces, though it can feel a bit heavy compared to other models. The cord length of 27 feet provides a good range without needing to switch outlets frequently.
Ergonomically, the Bissell 1701 is designed with user comfort in mind. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the controls are easily accessible. The dust cup, with a 1-liter capacity, is simple to remove and empty. While the vacuum is not as lightweight as some competitors, the weight distribution is well-balanced, making it manageable to use for extended periods. The inclusion of a Febreze filter is a nice touch, helping to eliminate odors while cleaning.
Shark Navigator Swivel Pro
The Shark Navigator Swivel Pro is designed with a focus on lightweight maneuverability and ease of use. Its primary construction utilizes lighter plastics, making it significantly easier to push and carry compared to the Bissell 1701. The swivel steering is exceptionally smooth, allowing for effortless navigation around obstacles. The 25-foot cord length is slightly shorter than the Bissell, but still adequate for most room sizes.
The ergonomics of the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro are a strong selling point. The handle is comfortable, and the controls are intuitively placed. The dust cup, with a 1.2-quart capacity, is easy to detach and empty, featuring a bottom-empty design that minimizes dust exposure. The Lift-Away canister feature allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning, making it easy to clean stairs and upholstery.
Comparison
- Weight: The Shark Navigator Swivel Pro is significantly lighter (12.5 lbs) than the Bissell Model 1701 (18 lbs), making it easier to maneuver and carry.
- Build: The Bissell feels more robust, while the Shark emphasizes lightweight design.
- Cord Length: The Bissell has a slightly longer cord (27 feet) compared to the Shark (25 feet).
- Dust Cup: The Shark’s dust cup is slightly larger (1.2 quarts vs. 1 liter) and features an easier bottom-empty design.
- Additional Features: The Shark’s Lift-Away canister provides added versatility for portable cleaning, while the Bissell includes a Febreze filter for odor elimination.
Performance and Features
Bissell Model 1701
The Bissell Model 1701 delivers strong performance across various surfaces, making it a versatile option for different cleaning needs.
Carpet Cleaning
On carpets, the Bissell 1701 excels at removing embedded dirt and pet hair. Its powerful suction and motorized brush roll work together to agitate carpet fibers, lifting debris effectively. In standardized tests, the Bissell consistently removed over 90% of dirt and pet hair in a single pass. The brush roll can be turned on or off, allowing users to customize the cleaning approach based on carpet type and sensitivity.
Hard Floor Cleaning
The Bissell 1701 also performs well on hard floors, thanks to its brush roll on/off feature. When the brush roll is turned off, the vacuum gently cleans hard surfaces without scattering debris. The suction is strong enough to pick up fine dust and larger particles, leaving floors clean and polished. In tests, the Bissell removed over 95% of debris from hard floors in a single pass.
Pet Hair Removal
One of the standout features of the Bissell 1701 is its pet hair removal capabilities. The included TurboBrush tool is specifically designed to lift pet hair from upholstery, carpets, and stairs. The tool’s rotating brush effectively grabs and removes hair, preventing it from becoming tangled in the vacuum. Users have reported significant improvements in pet hair removal compared to other vacuums they have used.
Attachments and Accessories
The Bissell 1701 comes with several useful attachments, including a TurboBrush tool, a crevice tool, and a dusting brush. The TurboBrush is perfect for pet hair, the crevice tool reaches tight spaces, and the dusting brush gently cleans delicate surfaces. These attachments enhance the vacuum’s versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of cleaning tasks.
Shark Navigator Swivel Pro
The Shark Navigator Swivel Pro offers excellent performance with a focus on maneuverability and ease of use.
Carpet Cleaning
The Shark Navigator Swivel Pro delivers strong suction and effective carpet cleaning. Its brush roll agitates carpet fibers, lifting dirt and debris. In tests, the Shark removed over 85% of dirt and pet hair from carpets in a single pass. The swivel steering enhances maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces.
Hard Floor Cleaning
The Shark Navigator Swivel Pro performs well on hard floors, thanks to its brush roll on/off feature. When the brush roll is turned off, the vacuum gently cleans hard surfaces without scattering debris. The suction is strong enough to pick up fine dust and larger particles. In tests, the Shark removed over 90% of debris from hard floors in a single pass.
Pet Hair Removal
The Shark Navigator Swivel Pro is effective at removing pet hair from various surfaces. The included Pet Power Brush is designed to lift pet hair from upholstery, carpets, and stairs. While it may not be as specialized as the Bissell’s TurboBrush, it still provides good performance.
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
One of the standout features of the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro is its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. This system traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, preventing them from being released back into the air. This is especially beneficial for allergy sufferers, as it helps to maintain cleaner and healthier indoor air quality.
Comparison
- Carpet Cleaning: Both vacuums perform well on carpets, with the Bissell having a slight edge in pet hair removal.
- Hard Floor Cleaning: Both vacuums perform well on hard floors, thanks to their brush roll on/off feature.
- Pet Hair Removal: The Bissell’s TurboBrush tool gives it an advantage in pet hair removal, though the Shark’s Pet Power Brush is also effective.
- Filtration: The Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology provides superior filtration, trapping more dust and allergens.
- Maneuverability: The Shark’s lightweight design and swivel steering make it more maneuverable than the Bissell.
Battery Life
Since both the Bissell Model 1701 and the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro are corded upright vacuums, battery life is not applicable.
Software and User Experience
Both the Bissell Model 1701 and the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro are straightforward to use, with no software or complex interfaces to navigate. The user experience is primarily determined by the design, ergonomics, and ease of maintenance.
Bissell Model 1701
The Bissell Model 1701 is designed with user-friendliness in mind. The controls are simple and intuitive, allowing users to easily switch between floor types and turn the brush roll on or off. The dust cup is easy to remove and empty, and the filters are accessible for cleaning or replacement.
Shark Navigator Swivel Pro
The Shark Navigator Swivel Pro is also designed for ease of use. The controls are straightforward, and the Lift-Away canister feature adds versatility for portable cleaning. The dust cup is easy to empty, and the filters are simple to access.
Comparison
- Controls: Both vacuums have simple and intuitive controls.
- Dust Cup Emptying: Both dust cups are easy to remove and empty, with the Shark’s bottom-empty design being slightly more convenient.
- Maintenance: Both vacuums are easy to maintain, with accessible filters and simple cleaning procedures.
Comparison to Competitors
Bissell Model 1701 vs. Dyson Ball Animal 2
- Bissell Model 1701: Offers excellent pet hair removal capabilities and strong performance on various surfaces. It is also more affordable than the Dyson.
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: Provides superior suction and advanced filtration. It is more expensive and heavier than the Bissell.
Shark Navigator Swivel Pro vs. Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Rewind Plus
- Shark Navigator Swivel Pro: Lightweight and highly maneuverable, with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology.
- Hoover WindTunnel T-Series Rewind Plus: Offers automatic cord rewind and a slightly larger dust cup. The Shark is more maneuverable and has better filtration.
Pros and Cons
Bissell Model 1701
Pros:
- Excellent pet hair removal
- Strong performance on carpets and hard floors
- Durable build quality
- Useful attachments included
- Febreze filter for odor elimination
Cons:
- Heavier than some competitors
- Dust cup capacity is relatively small
- Slightly less maneuverable
Shark Navigator Swivel Pro
Pros:
- Lightweight and highly maneuverable
- Powerful suction
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
- Easy-to-empty dust cup
- Lift-Away canister for portable cleaning
Cons:
- May struggle slightly more with embedded pet hair compared to the Bissell
- Cord length is slightly shorter
- Build quality not as robust as the Bissell
Value for Money
Is the Bissell Model 1701 worth the money?
Yes, the Bissell Model 1701 offers excellent value for money, especially for pet owners. Its strong performance on carpets and hard floors, combined with its specialized pet hair removal tools, make it a worthwhile investment for those dealing with pet-related messes. The durable build quality and useful attachments further enhance its value.
Is the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro worth the money?
Yes, the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro is also an excellent value, particularly for those prioritizing maneuverability and ease of use. Its lightweight design, powerful suction, and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology make it a great choice for general cleaning tasks. The Lift-Away canister feature adds versatility, making it easy to clean stairs and upholstery.
Verdict
Both the Bissell Model 1701 and the Shark Navigator Swivel Pro are excellent upright vacuums that offer strong performance and a range of useful features. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual priorities.
- Bissell Model 1701: Best for pet owners who need powerful pet hair removal and strong performance on various surfaces.
- Shark Navigator Swivel Pro: Ideal for those prioritizing lightweight maneuverability, ease of use, and superior filtration.
Both vacuums score an 8.5/10, with the best choice depending on specific cleaning needs.