The Shark NV501 and NV585 Rotator Lift-Away vacuums are popular choices for homeowners seeking versatile cleaning solutions. Both models offer the convenience of an upright vacuum with the added benefit of a detachable canister for portable cleaning. These vacuums target consumers who want a powerful and adaptable machine capable of tackling various surfaces, from carpets to hard floors, and reaching tight spaces with ease.
Choosing between the Shark NV501 and NV585 can be tricky, as they share many similarities. Both are designed to be lightweight and easy to maneuver, featuring Shark’s signature Lift-Away technology and HEPA filtration. However, key differences in features, accessories, and price point can influence the decision-making process. This comparison dives deep into the specifics of each model, providing a data-driven analysis to help you determine which Shark vacuum best suits your cleaning needs and preferences.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark NV501
- Short Review of Shark NV585
- 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 NV501?
- Who Should Buy the Shark NV585?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Shark NV501 generally offers a better value for those on a tighter budget, providing similar core cleaning performance at a lower price point.
- For Bonus Features: The Shark NV585 stands out with its bonus steam mop, offering an additional cleaning function for hard floors.
- For Overall Versatility: Both are quite versatile, but the NV585 might be slightly better due to the steam mop and additional accessories depending on the specific configuration.
Short Review of Shark NV501
The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away is a versatile upright vacuum cleaner designed for whole-home cleaning. Its Lift-Away feature allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning, making it easy to tackle stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas. Equipped with a HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, the NV501 effectively captures dust and allergens, making it a suitable choice for allergy sufferers. The NV501 is also known for its swivel steering and LED headlights, which enhance maneuverability and visibility while cleaning.
The NV501’s strong suction and brush roll on/off feature make it effective on both carpets and hard floors. Several attachments, including a dusting brush, crevice tool, and upholstery tool, add to its versatility. Despite being a corded vacuum, its long power cord provides ample reach for cleaning large spaces. The NV501 is a reliable and affordable option that continues to be competitive.
Short Review of Shark NV585
The Shark NV585 Navigator Powered Lift-Away is designed to deliver uninterrupted floor-to-ceiling cleaning. Like the NV501, it features the Powered Lift-Away technology, allowing the canister to detach for versatile cleaning above floors, under furniture, and in tight spaces. It also includes LED lights on the floor nozzle and fingertip controls on the handle for seamless transitions between carpet and hard floor cleaning.
The NV585’s standout feature is the inclusion of a bonus steam mop, which sanitizes hard floors by eliminating dirt and bacteria. The vacuum also boasts Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens. Equipped with multiple attachments, the NV585 is designed to handle various cleaning tasks around the home. The powerful swivel movement system allows it to reach tight corners.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Bonus Feature: The NV585 includes a bonus steam mop for sanitizing hard floors, while the NV501 does not.
- Attachments: The NV585 may come with a Dust-Away hard-floor attachment, depending on the specific configuration, which the NV501 typically lacks.
- Price: The NV501 is generally more budget-friendly than the NV585.
- Model Availability: The NV501 is more widely available as a vacuum-only option, while the NV585 is often bundled with the steam mop.
- Dust Cup Capacity: While both have XL dust cups, the specific capacity may vary slightly; check the specifications for the exact volume.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark NV501 | Shark NV585 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Name | Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Navigator Powered Lift-Away Vacuum with Bonus Steam Mop |
| Product Type | Upright Vacuum | Upright Vacuum |
| Technology | Lift-Away | Powered Lift-Away |
| Filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, HEPA Filter | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, HEPA Filter |
| Dust Cup Capacity | XL Capacity (specific volume may vary) | XL Capacity (specific volume may vary) |
| Weight | 15.5 lbs (Upright), 9.37 lbs (Lift-Away Pod) | Varies (check specific configuration) |
| Cord Length | 25-30 ft (varies by retailer) | Varies (check specific configuration) |
| Cleaning Path Width | 9.5 inches | Varies (check specific configuration) |
| Attachments | Upholstery Tool, Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool (number of attachments can vary) | Varies, typically includes multiple attachments for above-floor cleaning; may include Dust-Away attachment |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes |
| LED Headlights | Yes | Yes |
| Brush Roll On/Off | Yes | Yes |
| Bonus Feature | None | Steam Mop |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
| Dimensions | 45.7″ H x 12.1″ W x 12.2″ D | Varies (check specific configuration) |
| Wattage | 1200 W | Varies (check specific configuration) |
| Other Features | Detachable canister for portable cleaning, advanced swivel steering | Detachable canister for portable cleaning, advanced swivel steering, fingertip controls |
Price Comparison
The Shark NV501 is generally priced lower than the NV585. The NV501 can be found for around $150-$200 depending on the retailer and any ongoing sales. The NV585, due to its inclusion of the steam mop and potentially more attachments, typically retails for $200-$300 or more.
Value Proposition:
- NV501: Offers excellent core vacuuming performance at a budget-friendly price. Ideal for those who prioritize a powerful and versatile vacuum without extra features.
- NV585: Provides additional value with the inclusion of a steam mop. This is a great option for those who want an all-in-one cleaning solution for both carpets and hard floors.
Cost-to-Feature Ratio: The NV501 has a high cost-to-feature ratio, offering strong performance for its price. The NV585, while more expensive, offers a good value for those specifically seeking a vacuum and steam mop combination.
Design and Build Quality
Both the Shark NV501 and NV585 share a similar design aesthetic, featuring a sleek, upright form factor with a detachable canister for Lift-Away functionality. The vacuums are primarily constructed from durable plastic, which helps keep them relatively lightweight.
- Aesthetics: Both models sport a modern look with a combination of colors (typically white, red, and/or purple accents).
- Materials: Both are made of plastic, which is standard for vacuums in this price range.
- Durability: Both are generally considered durable.
- Ergonomics: Both vacuums feature swivel steering for easy maneuverability around furniture and obstacles. The Lift-Away function enhances ergonomics when cleaning stairs or above-floor areas.
- Construction Quality: Both models are well-constructed for their price point, with robust components and a solid feel.
Performance Face-Off
Suction Power
Both the NV501 and NV585 offer strong suction power suitable for a variety of surfaces. User reviews and tests show that both models effectively pick up dirt, debris, and pet hair from carpets and hard floors.
Carpet Cleaning
Both vacuums perform well on carpets, thanks to their motorized brush rolls and strong suction. The brush roll on/off feature allows users to switch between carpet and hard floor cleaning seamlessly.
Hard Floor Cleaning
Both the NV501 and NV585 are effective on hard floors. The NV585 may have an edge due to the Dust-Away attachment (depending on the configuration). The NV585’s bonus steam mop provides an additional level of cleaning for hard floors, sanitizing and removing stuck-on messes.
Edge Cleaning
Both vacuums are equipped with features that allow for effective edge cleaning, such as a slim nozzle design and strong suction.
Pet Hair
Both the NV501 and NV585 are well-suited for homes with pets. Their strong suction and specialized attachments (such as the pet upholstery tool) effectively remove pet hair from carpets, upholstery, and other surfaces.
Special Features Comparison
- Shark NV501: The NV501’s standout feature is its Lift-Away function, which allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning. Its HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology are also notable for allergy sufferers.
- Shark NV585: The NV585’s primary special feature is the inclusion of a bonus steam mop. This provides an additional cleaning option for hard floors. The NV585 also features fingertip controls on the handle, making it easy to switch between carpet and hard floor cleaning modes.
Usability and User Experience
Both the Shark NV501 and NV585 are designed to be user-friendly.
- Ease of Use: Both models are easy to assemble and operate. The Lift-Away function is intuitive, and the swivel steering enhances maneuverability.
- Learning Curve: Minimal learning curve for both models.
- Everyday Operation: Both vacuums are straightforward to use for everyday cleaning tasks. The bagless design makes emptying the dust cup quick and easy.
- Novice vs. Experienced Users: Both vacuums are suitable for both novice and experienced users.
Maintenance and Longevity
- Maintenance: Both the NV501 and NV585 require regular maintenance, such as emptying the dust cup, cleaning the filters, and removing any hair or debris from the brush roll.
- Consumable Parts: The primary consumable parts are the filters, which should be replaced periodically.
- Warranty Coverage: Both models come with a 5-year limited warranty.
- Expected Lifespan: With proper maintenance, both vacuums can provide several years of reliable service.
Who Should Buy the Shark NV501?
- Budget-conscious buyers: The NV501 offers excellent cleaning performance at a lower price point.
- Users who primarily need a vacuum: If you don’t need a steam mop, the NV501 is a great choice.
- Those who want a versatile and reliable vacuum: The NV501’s Lift-Away function and strong suction make it suitable for a variety of cleaning tasks.
Who Should Buy the Shark NV585?
- Those who want a vacuum and steam mop in one: The NV585 is ideal for those who want an all-in-one cleaning solution for carpets and hard floors.
- Users who prioritize convenience: The inclusion of the steam mop and potentially more attachments makes the NV585 a convenient option.
- Those willing to spend more for extra features: The NV585’s higher price point is justified by its additional features and capabilities.
Final Recommendation
Both the Shark NV501 and NV585 are excellent choices for those seeking a versatile and powerful upright vacuum with Lift-Away functionality. The NV501 offers a better value for budget-conscious buyers, while the NV585 provides additional features and capabilities, including a bonus steam mop.
- Choose the Shark NV501 if: You want a reliable and versatile vacuum at a lower price point.
- Choose the Shark NV585 if: You want a vacuum and steam mop combination for comprehensive cleaning.
