The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is a corded upright vacuum designed to deliver powerful cleaning performance at an affordable price. Aimed at households with a mix of carpets and hard floors, as well as those needing a versatile machine for above-floor cleaning, the NV360 distinguishes itself with its Lift-Away feature, HEPA filtration, and swivel steering. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious consumers who don’t want to compromise on essential features and cleaning effectiveness. After years on the market, it continues to be a relevant option, especially for those who prefer the reliability of a corded vacuum.
This vacuum isn’t trying to be the smartest or most innovative cleaner on the market. Instead, it focuses on providing reliable suction, essential features, and ease of use. While it may lack some of the advanced technologies found in newer, more expensive models, the Shark NV360 offers a compelling balance of performance and value, making it a practical choice for many homes.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Pros: Strong suction for its price range, Lift-Away feature for versatile cleaning, HEPA filtration for allergen control, and good performance on carpets.
- Cons: Short hose, can be difficult to maneuver, brushroll can tangle with hair, and feels less robust than higher-end models.
- Verdict: A solid, budget-friendly upright vacuum that offers good cleaning power and versatility for the price. Score: 7.5/10
Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | NV360 |
| Vacuum Type | Upright, Lift-Away |
| Cord Length | 25 feet |
| Weight | 15.96 pounds |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.9 quarts |
| Cleaning Path Width | 9.5 inches / 11 inches (various sources) |
| Filtration | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal |
| Motor Power | 1200 Watts / 10 Amps |
| Attachments | Crevice tool, Upholstery tool |
| Dimensions | 45.5″ H x 11.4″ W x 14.9″ D |
| Warranty | 5-Year Limited Warranty |
Price and Availability
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is widely available at major retailers such as Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Home Depot. Pricing can vary, but it typically ranges from $150 to $200. Keep an eye out for sales and deals, especially during holiday seasons, where you might find it for even less. It’s also worth checking for renewed or refurbished options to save even more.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Navigator NV360 sports a classic upright vacuum design with a detachable Lift-Away pod. The main body is constructed primarily of plastic, which helps keep the weight down but can make it feel less premium compared to models with more metal components. Assembly is straightforward, typically requiring you to connect a few parts without the need for tools.
The Lift-Away feature is a standout design element, allowing you to detach the canister from the main body with the push of a button. This makes it easier to clean stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor areas. The swivel steering enhances maneuverability around furniture, although some users find it can still be a bit bulky in tight spaces. The corded design ensures consistent power without the need to worry about battery life, but the 25-foot cord length might be limiting for larger homes.
Compared to older models, the NV360 maintains a similar design philosophy, focusing on functionality and affordability. However, newer Shark models often feature improved build quality, advanced brushroll technology (like DuoClean or self-cleaning), and enhanced maneuverability. When compared to competitors like Bissell CleanView, the Shark NV360 offers a better hose length and maneuverability, but the Bissell performs better on bare floors and low-pile carpets.
Performance and Features
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is designed to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors. Its key features include strong suction, a motorized brushroll, HEPA filtration, and the Lift-Away function.
Suction Power
The NV360’s 1200-watt motor provides strong suction, effectively picking up dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces. In tests, it performs well on carpets, lifting embedded dirt and pet hair. On hard floors, the brushroll can be turned off to prevent scattering of debris, allowing for efficient cleaning. While it may not have the absolute strongest suction on the market, it offers more than enough power for most household cleaning tasks.
Lift-Away Functionality
The Lift-Away feature is one of the most useful aspects of this vacuum. By detaching the canister, you can easily clean stairs, upholstery, and other hard-to-reach areas. This versatility makes it a practical choice for homes with multiple floor types and various cleaning needs. The included crevice tool and upholstery tool further enhance its ability to tackle different surfaces and messes.
Filtration System
The NV360 is equipped with a HEPA filter and Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. This system traps over 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 and pet owners, as it helps to maintain a cleaner and healthier home environment. The filters are also washable, which helps to extend their lifespan and reduce maintenance costs.
Brushroll Performance
The motorized brushroll is effective at agitating carpet fibers and loosening embedded dirt. It can be turned on or off, making it suitable for both carpets and hard floors. However, some users have reported that the brushroll can become tangled with hair, requiring regular cleaning. Newer Shark models often feature self-cleaning brushrolls that mitigate this issue, but the NV360 requires manual maintenance.
Battery Life
As a corded vacuum, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 does not have a battery. This means you have continuous power without the need to recharge, making it suitable for longer cleaning sessions. The downside is the limited reach of the 25-foot power cord, which may require you to switch outlets when cleaning larger areas.
Software and User Experience
Since the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 is a traditional vacuum cleaner, it does not come with any software or app integrations. The user experience is straightforward and intuitive, with simple controls and easy-to-use features.
The Lift-Away function is easily activated with the push of a button, and the swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and obstacles. The dust cup is easy to empty, and the washable filters are simple to access and maintain. While it may lack the advanced features of smart vacuums, its simplicity is a strength for those who prefer a no-nonsense cleaning experience.
Comparison to Competitors
When compared to other vacuums in its price range, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 holds its own in terms of performance and features. Here’s how it stacks up against a couple of competitors:
- Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet: The Bissell CleanView offers better performance on bare floors and low-pile carpets. However, the Shark NV360 is better built, has a longer hose, and is easier to maneuver. The Shark is also slightly better at cleaning high-pile carpets and dealing with pet hair.
- Dyson V8: The Dyson V8 is a cordless stick vacuum that offers more maneuverability and convenience. However, it comes at a significantly higher price point. The Shark NV360 provides comparable suction power for a fraction of the cost, making it a more budget-friendly option for those who don’t mind the corded design.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Strong suction power
- Lift-Away feature for versatile cleaning
- HEPA filtration system
- Suitable for both carpets and hard floors
Cons:
- Short hose length
- Can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
- Brushroll can tangle with hair
- Build quality not as robust as higher-end models
Value for Money
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 offers excellent value for money. It provides strong cleaning performance and versatile features at an affordable price. While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, it delivers where it counts: effective cleaning and ease of use.
This vacuum is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious consumers
- Households with a mix of carpets and hard floors
- Pet owners looking for effective pet hair removal
- Allergy sufferers who need HEPA filtration
You might want to consider other options if:
- You need a vacuum for very large homes where the short cord length would be limiting
- You prefer a cordless vacuum for maximum convenience
- You have a lot of high-pile carpets that require a more specialized cleaning head
Verdict
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360 remains a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and versatile upright vacuum. Its strong suction, Lift-Away feature, and HEPA filtration make it a practical option for a variety of cleaning tasks. While it has some limitations, such as the short hose and potential for brushroll tangling, its overall performance and value make it a worthwhile investment. Overall score: 7.5/10.
