Shark APEX DuoClean vs Navigator

Shark vacuums are a popular choice for homeowners looking for powerful cleaning performance at a reasonable price. Within the Shark lineup, the APEX DuoClean and Navigator series both offer upright vacuums with “Lift-Away” technology, allowing for versatile cleaning above floors. However, these series cater to slightly different needs and budgets. The APEX DuoClean is generally positioned as a premium option with advanced features like DuoClean brushrolls and Zero-M anti-tangle technology, while the Navigator series offers more affordable models with a focus on strong suction and ease of use.

Choosing between the Shark APEX DuoClean and Navigator can be challenging, as both offer compelling features for tackling various cleaning tasks. This comparison will break down the key differences in design, performance, features, and price to help you determine which Shark vacuum is the best fit for your home. We will delve into their strengths and weaknesses, consider different flooring types, pet owner needs, and overall user experience to provide a comprehensive guide for making an informed decision.

Quick Verdict

• For superior cleaning performance on all floor types: The Shark APEX DuoClean, with its DuoClean technology and stronger suction, generally outperforms the Navigator on bare floors and carpets.
• For a more budget-friendly option: The Shark Navigator offers excellent value for money, providing strong suction and Lift-Away functionality at a lower price point.
• For homes with primarily high-pile carpets: Some Navigator models may perform better on high-pile carpets due to their design.
• For pet owners: The APEX DuoClean’s Zero-M technology is a significant advantage for preventing hair tangles, but some Navigator models also offer good pet hair cleaning capabilities.
• For ease of maneuverability: The APEX DuoClean is designed to be easier to maneuver.

Shark APEX DuoClean: Short Review

The Shark APEX DuoClean series represents Shark’s high-end upright vacuum offerings, known for their advanced cleaning technologies and powerful performance. A standout feature is the DuoClean brushroll system, which combines a soft brushroll for direct engagement with hard floors and a bristle brushroll to dig deep into carpets. This combination ensures effective cleaning across all floor types, picking up both large and small debris with ease. Furthermore, the APEX DuoClean often includes the Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll technology, which actively removes hair wraps, making it an excellent choice for pet owners.

Beyond its cleaning prowess, the APEX DuoClean also prioritizes user convenience. The Powered Lift-Away feature allows users to detach the canister and clean hard-to-reach areas with the motorized brushroll, while the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum. While the APEX DuoClean may come with a higher price tag, its superior cleaning performance, advanced features, and user-friendly design make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a top-of-the-line upright vacuum.

Shark Navigator: Short Review

The Shark Navigator series focuses on delivering powerful cleaning performance and practical features at an accessible price point. These upright vacuums are known for their strong suction, which effectively removes dirt, dust, and pet hair from various surfaces. The Navigator series also features the Lift-Away design, allowing users to detach the canister and use it separately with the wand and attachments for above-floor cleaning, such as stairs and upholstery. This versatility makes the Navigator a popular choice for homeowners seeking an all-in-one cleaning solution.

While the Navigator series may not have all the bells and whistles of the APEX DuoClean, it still offers a range of features that enhance usability. Many Navigator models include swivel steering for easy maneuverability, HEPA filtration to trap allergens, and a variety of attachments for specialized cleaning tasks. The Navigator’s simple design and straightforward operation make it easy to use for both novice and experienced users. With its combination of powerful suction, versatile features, and affordable price, the Shark Navigator series provides excellent value for money.

Key Differences at a Glance

• Brushroll Technology: APEX DuoClean features a two-brushroll system (DuoClean), while Navigators typically have a single brushroll.
• Anti-Tangle Technology: APEX DuoClean often includes Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll, which is less common in Navigator models.
• Suction Power: APEX DuoClean generally offers stronger suction than Navigator models.
• Dustbin Capacity: APEX DuoClean tends to have a slightly smaller dustbin capacity compared to some Navigator models.
• Price: Navigator vacuums are generally more affordable than APEX DuoClean models.
• Weight: Navigator vacuums are typically lighter than APEX DuoClean models.
• Maneuverability: APEX DuoClean is designed to be easier to maneuver, especially around furniture.

Specifications Comparison

Price Comparison

The Shark Navigator series typically ranges from $150 to $250, while the Shark APEX DuoClean series generally falls between $300 and $400. The Navigator offers a strong value proposition for budget-conscious shoppers who want powerful suction and Lift-Away functionality. The APEX DuoClean, while more expensive, justifies its price with advanced features like DuoClean, Zero-M, and Powered Lift-Away, making it a worthwhile investment for those seeking top-tier cleaning performance.

The cost-to-feature ratio favors the Navigator for basic cleaning needs, but the APEX DuoClean provides better long-term value for homes with diverse flooring, pets, and allergy concerns.

Design and Build Quality

The Shark APEX DuoClean generally boasts a more modern and robust design compared to the Navigator series. It often features premium materials and a more refined finish, contributing to a higher-quality feel. The APEX DuoClean’s construction is designed for enhanced durability and longevity. The Navigator series, while still well-built, typically uses more basic materials and a simpler design aesthetic.

Both series offer swivel steering for maneuverability and a Lift-Away feature for portable cleaning. However, the APEX DuoClean’s Powered Lift-Away, with its motorized brushroll, provides more effective cleaning in handheld mode compared to the Navigator’s suction-powered tools. The APEX DuoClean is designed to be easier to maneuver due to the low center of gravity.

Performance Face-Off

Bare Floors

The Shark APEX DuoClean excels on bare floors due to its DuoClean technology. The soft brushroll directly engages with the floor, capturing fine dust and large debris without scattering. The Navigator, while still effective, may push larger particles around due to its single brushroll design.

• APEX DuoClean: Excellent – effectively picks up fine dust and large debris.
• Navigator: Good – may struggle with larger debris, potentially scattering it.

Low-Pile Carpet

Both vacuums perform well on low-pile carpets. However, the APEX DuoClean’s combination of brushrolls provides a deeper clean, agitating and lifting dirt and debris more effectively than the Navigator’s single brushroll.

• APEX DuoClean: Excellent – provides a deep and thorough clean.
• Navigator: Very Good – effectively removes surface dirt and debris.

High-Pile Carpet

The Shark Navigator can sometimes outperform the APEX DuoClean on high-pile carpets. The APEX DuoClean can be harder to push on this surface.

• APEX DuoClean: Good – may require more effort to push and pull.
• Navigator: Very Good – good at removing debris.

Pet Hair

The APEX DuoClean is a top choice for pet owners thanks to its Zero-M technology, which prevents hair from wrapping around the brushroll. The Navigator can also handle pet hair, but it may require more frequent brushroll cleaning.

• APEX DuoClean: Excellent – Zero-M technology minimizes hair tangles.
• Navigator: Good – may require manual removal of hair from the brushroll.

Edge Cleaning

Both vacuums have decent edge cleaning capabilities, but the APEX DuoClean’s stronger suction and specialized edge brush design (on some models) provide slightly better performance.

• APEX DuoClean: Very Good – effectively cleans along edges and baseboards.
• Navigator: Good – may leave some debris along edges.

Special Features Comparison

• Shark APEX DuoClean:
  • DuoClean Technology: Two brushrolls working in tandem for superior cleaning on all floor types.
  • Zero-M Technology: Self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wraps.
  • Powered Lift-Away: Motorized brushroll in Lift-Away mode for enhanced cleaning on stairs and upholstery.
• Shark Navigator:
  • Lift-Away: Detachable canister for portable cleaning.
  • Swivel Steering: Enhances maneuverability around furniture.
  • HEPA Filtration: Traps dust and allergens for cleaner air.

Usability and User Experience

Both the Shark APEX DuoClean and Navigator are designed with user-friendliness in mind, but there are some key differences in their usability and overall user experience.

The Shark Navigator is generally considered easier to use due to its lighter weight and straightforward design. Its simple controls and intuitive operation make it a good choice for users who prefer a no-frills cleaning experience. However, its shorter cord length and smaller dustbin may require more frequent stops during cleaning.

The Shark APEX DuoClean, while slightly heavier and more complex, offers a more refined user experience. Its longer cord, larger dustbin (on some models), and enhanced maneuverability contribute to a more efficient and convenient cleaning process. The Powered Lift-Away feature and specialized attachments also provide greater versatility for tackling various cleaning tasks.

Maintenance and Longevity

Both the Shark APEX DuoClean and Navigator require regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This includes emptying the dustbin after each use, cleaning the filters every few months, and removing any hair or debris that may accumulate on the brushroll.

The APEX DuoClean’s Zero-M technology significantly reduces the need for manual brushroll cleaning, making it a more convenient option for pet owners. However, the APEX DuoClean’s more complex design may require more attention to detail during maintenance.

The Navigator’s simpler design makes it easier to disassemble and clean, but its lack of advanced features like Zero-M means that users will need to manually remove hair and debris from the brushroll more frequently.

Both series come with a limited warranty, typically ranging from 1 to 5 years, depending on the model.

Who Should Buy Shark APEX DuoClean?

• Homeowners with a mix of hard floors and carpets who want the best possible cleaning performance on all surfaces.
• Pet owners who want to minimize hair tangles and enjoy hassle-free brushroll maintenance.
• Allergy sufferers who need a vacuum with advanced filtration to trap dust and allergens.
• Those who don’t mind paying a premium for top-of-the-line features and performance.

Who Should Buy Shark Navigator?

• Budget-conscious shoppers who want a powerful and versatile vacuum at an affordable price.
• Users who need a lightweight and easy-to-maneuver vacuum for quick and convenient cleaning.
• Homeowners with primarily low-pile carpets or hard floors.
• Those who don’t mind manually cleaning the brushroll and performing basic maintenance tasks.

Final Recommendation

The Shark APEX DuoClean and Navigator are both excellent upright vacuums that offer strong cleaning performance and versatile features. The best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and priorities.

If you prioritize superior cleaning performance on all floor types, advanced features like DuoClean and Zero-M, and don’t mind paying a premium, the Shark APEX DuoClean is the better choice.

If you’re looking for a more affordable option that still delivers powerful suction, Lift-Away functionality, and ease of use, the Shark Navigator is an excellent value.