The Shark HV301 Rocket Vacuum is designed as an ultra-lightweight, corded stick vacuum that offers versatility and convenience for quick clean-ups. It aims to provide powerful suction in a compact form, easily converting to a handheld vacuum for floor-to-ceiling cleaning. Positioned as an affordable and maneuverable option, the HV301 competes with other stick vacuums by offering continuous corded power, eliminating concerns about battery life.
This vacuum targets users who need a lightweight and easy-to-store cleaning solution for apartments, small homes, or as a secondary vacuum for quick messes. Its key selling points include its light weight, swivel steering, and the ability to transition seamlessly between carpets and hard floors. The Shark HV301 Rocket strives to deliver effective cleaning performance without the bulk and complexity of traditional upright vacuums.
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Key Takeaways
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: Weighing under 9 lbs, the HV301 is easy to carry and maneuver around furniture and tight spaces.
- Versatile Cleaning: Converts to a handheld vacuum with included attachments for floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
- Continuous Power: Corded design ensures uninterrupted cleaning without the need to recharge.
- Effective on Multiple Surfaces: Designed for use on both carpets and hard floors with fingertip controls for easy switching.
- Easy to Store: Includes a wall mount for convenient storage.
Verdict: The Shark HV301 Rocket Vacuum is a solid choice for those needing a lightweight, versatile, and affordable cleaning solution, particularly for small spaces and quick clean-ups. It offers good suction power and maneuverability, though it lacks some of the advanced features and build quality of pricier models. A solid 7.5/10.
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | HV301 |
| Vacuum Type | Corded Stick/Handheld |
| Weight | 7.5 – 8.2 lbs (varies slightly based on the source) |
| Dimensions | 46″ (H) x 9.8″ – 10.5″ (W) x 10.5″ (D) |
| Cord Length | 25 – 30 feet (inconsistent information across sources) |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.31 quarts |
| Cleaning Path Width | 8.3 – 10 inches (varies slightly based on the source) |
| Power | 4.2 amps, 500 watts |
| Filtration | HEPA type |
| Bag Type | Bagless |
| Surface Cleaning | Carpet, Bare Floors |
| Attachments Included | Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, Wide Upholstery Tool, Accessory Bag, Wall Mount |
| Number of Speeds | 2 |
Price and Availability
The Shark HV301 Rocket Vacuum is available at various retailers, including:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Target
- Kohl’s
- Staples
- Home Depot
- Macy’s
- Lowe’s
Pricing varies depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions, but typically ranges from $100 to $170. It’s advisable to check multiple sources for the best deals.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark HV301 Rocket Vacuum features a lightweight design, primarily constructed from plastic. Its slim profile and swivel steering enhance maneuverability around furniture and tight corners. The design allows for easy conversion from a stick vacuum to a handheld unit by detaching the wand.
While the lightweight construction makes it easy to carry, some reviews suggest that the build quality feels somewhat cheap compared to higher-end models. The dust cup is relatively small, requiring more frequent emptying, and the vacuum does not stand upright on its own, necessitating wall mounting or leaning it against a surface for storage.
Compared to previous models, the HV301 maintains the Rocket line’s emphasis on lightweight design and versatility. However, newer models like the Shark Stratos UltraLight offer improved build quality and additional features.
Performance and Features
The Shark HV301 Rocket Vacuum is designed to perform well on both carpets and hard floors. It includes two-speed settings: one for bare floors and another for carpets, which adjusts the brush roller speed.
Suction Power and Cleaning Effectiveness
The HV301 provides strong suction for its size, effectively picking up dirt, dust, and pet hair. However, some users have noted that it may struggle with larger debris like cereal. The vacuum performs well on hard floors, getting close to baseboards, and is effective at removing pet hair from various surfaces.
Maneuverability and Ease of Use
Swivel steering allows for excellent control in tight spaces and around furniture. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry up and down stairs, and the conversion to a handheld vacuum adds to its versatility. The fingertip controls are conveniently located for easy switching between surfaces.
Attachments and Accessories
The HV301 comes with several useful attachments:
- Crevice Tool: For cleaning in tight spaces and along edges.
- Dusting Brush: For dusting furniture and other surfaces.
- Wide Upholstery Tool: For cleaning upholstery and removing pet hair.
- Accessory Bag: For storing attachments.
- Wall Mount: For convenient storage.
These attachments enhance the vacuum’s ability to clean various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.
Battery Life
Since the Shark HV301 Rocket is a corded vacuum, battery life is not a factor. It offers continuous, uninterrupted cleaning power as long as it is plugged in.
Software and User Experience
As a vacuum cleaner, the Shark HV301 Rocket does not incorporate any software or app-based user experience. It is a straightforward, plug-and-play device.
Comparison to Competitors
When compared to other stick vacuums in the market, the Shark HV301 Rocket holds its own in terms of lightweight design and versatility, but has some drawbacks when compared to others:
- Dyson V11: The Dyson V11 is a cordless vacuum that offers superior overall performance, a larger dirt compartment, and more advanced features like automatic power adjustment. However, it is significantly more expensive than the HV301. The Dyson stores easier, has a bigger dirt compartment, and is cordless, so you can go anywhere with it. It can also adjust its power level to better suit the mess, and it comes with several tools that help to clean more specific objects like blinds, which is nice.
- Levoit Cordless Vacuum: The Levoit Cordless Vacuum offers a cordless alternative with versatile functionality. While the Shark Rocket provides continuous power through its corded design, the Levoit offers the freedom of movement without being tethered to an outlet.
- Shark Stratos UltraLight: The Shark Stratos UltraLight is a newer model in Shark’s lineup that offers improved build quality and additional features compared to the HV301. However, it also comes at a higher price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Converts to a handheld vacuum
- Continuous corded power
- Effective on carpets and hard floors
- Includes useful attachments
- Relatively affordable
Cons:
- Small dust cup
- Does not stand upright on its own
- Build quality could be better
- Cord can be limiting
- Lacks advanced features of higher-end models
Value for Money
The Shark HV301 Rocket Vacuum offers good value for money, especially for those seeking an affordable and lightweight cleaning solution. Its versatility and continuous power make it a practical choice for small homes, apartments, and quick clean-ups.
Who should buy this product:
- Individuals living in apartments or small homes
- Those seeking a lightweight and easy-to-store vacuum
- Users who prefer continuous corded power over battery life
- People needing a versatile vacuum for floor-to-ceiling cleaning
- Pet owners looking for an affordable option to pick up pet hair
Who should look elsewhere:
- Those needing a vacuum for large homes with extensive carpeting
- Users seeking advanced features like automatic power adjustment and smart sensors
- Individuals who prioritize build quality and durability
- Those willing to invest in a higher-end cordless vacuum for greater convenience
Verdict
The Shark HV301 Rocket Vacuum is a reliable and versatile cleaning tool that offers excellent value for its price. Its lightweight design, continuous power, and useful attachments make it a solid choice for small homes and quick clean-ups. While it lacks some of the advanced features and build quality of more expensive models, its affordability and practicality make it a worthwhile investment for the right user. A final score of 7.5/10 reflects its strengths in lightweight maneuverability and versatile cleaning, balanced against its limitations in dust cup capacity and overall build.
