The Shark Navigator NV501 and Dyson vacuums are both popular choices for homeowners seeking powerful and versatile cleaning solutions. The Shark Navigator NV501, known for its Lift-Away design and affordability, has been a consistent contender in the upright vacuum market. Dyson, on the other hand, has built a reputation for innovative technology, strong suction, and sleek designs, often positioning itself as a premium brand.
Choosing between the Shark Navigator NV501 and a Dyson vacuum depends largely on your specific cleaning needs, budget, and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable and versatile vacuum with decent performance and a range of attachments, the Shark Navigator NV501 might be a suitable option. However, if you prioritize superior suction, advanced features, and a more premium build quality, and are willing to invest more, a Dyson vacuum could be the better choice. This comparison will delve into the specifics of each brand, helping you determine which vacuum aligns best with your requirements.
Table of Contents
- Quick Verdict
- Short Review of Shark Navigator NV501
- Short Review of Dyson Vacuums
- 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 Shark Navigator NV501?
- Who Should Buy Dyson?
- Final Recommendation
Quick Verdict
- For Budget-Conscious Buyers: The Shark Navigator NV501 offers a compelling balance of features and performance at a more accessible price point.
- For Power and Technology Enthusiasts: Dyson vacuums generally offer superior suction power and innovative features like laser dust detection, but come at a higher cost.
- For Versatility: Both brands offer versatile models with various attachments and the ability to convert to handheld vacuums, but Shark’s Lift-Away feature provides a unique advantage for cleaning stairs and hard-to-reach areas.
- For Pet Owners: Both brands have models designed for pet hair removal, but Dyson’s de-tangling technology and specialized pet tools may offer an edge.
The Shark Navigator NV501 is a corded upright vacuum cleaner known for its versatility and Lift-Away feature. It allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning, making it easier to reach stairs, upholstery, and other above-floor areas. It is equipped with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter, which traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
The NV501 also features swivel steering for maneuvering around furniture and LED headlights to illuminate the cleaning path. It comes with several attachments, including a premium pet power brush, wide pet upholstery tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool. The Shark Navigator NV501 offers a lightweight design, an XL-capacity dust cup, and a 5-year limited warranty.
Short Review of Dyson Vacuums
Dyson vacuums are renowned for their innovative technology, powerful suction, and advanced features. Dyson offers a wide range of vacuum cleaners, including cordless stick vacuums, upright vacuums, and robot vacuums. Their cordless vacuums are particularly popular for their lightweight design, strong suction, and versatility.
Dyson’s key technologies include the Dyson Hyperdymium motor, Root Cyclone technology, and whole-machine HEPA filtration. Some models also feature laser dust detection, LCD screens that report on performance, and de-tangling brush heads. Dyson vacuums are designed for whole-home cleaning and are known for their ability to tackle pet hair, allergens, and fine dust. They typically come with a 2-year warranty and offer various accessories for specialized cleaning tasks.
Key Differences at a Glance
- Price: Shark Navigator NV501 is significantly more affordable than most Dyson vacuums.
- Suction Power: Dyson vacuums generally offer stronger suction power compared to the Shark Navigator NV501.
- Technology: Dyson incorporates more advanced technology, such as laser dust detection and LCD screens, in their vacuums.
- Design: Dyson vacuums often have a more modern and sleek design compared to the Shark Navigator NV501.
- Cordless vs. Corded: Dyson primarily focuses on cordless vacuums, while the Shark Navigator NV501 is a corded model.
- Weight: The Shark Navigator NV501 is lighter than some Dyson models, but heavier than Dyson’s cordless stick vacuums.
- Lift-Away Feature: The Shark Navigator NV501 has a unique Lift-Away feature that allows the canister to be detached for portable cleaning, which is not available on most Dyson vacuums.
Specifications Comparison
| Feature | Shark Navigator NV501 | Dyson V8 Absolute |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Corded Upright | Cordless Stick/Handheld |
| Weight | 15.5 lbs | 5.82 lbs |
| Cord Length | 30 ft | N/A (Cordless) |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.88 quarts | 0.14 gallons (0.53 liters) |
| Filtration | HEPA, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal | Whole-machine HEPA filtration |
| Run Time | N/A (Corded) | Up to 40 minutes |
| Charge Time | N/A (Corded) | 5 hours |
| Power | 1200 watts | 115 AW (suction power in Powerful mode) |
| Attachments | Pet Power Brush, Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush | Fluffy cleaner head, Motorbar cleaner head, Crevice tool, Combination tool, Hair screw tool, Docking station |
| Warranty | 5-year limited | 2-year limited |
| Cleaning Path Width | 11.5 inches | Not specified |
| Dimensions | 45.7″ H x 13.4″ W x 12.2″ D | 49″ H x 8.7″ W x 9.8″ D |
Price Comparison
The Shark Navigator NV501 is typically priced between $200 and $250. Dyson vacuums, depending on the model, can range from $350 to over $800. The Shark Navigator NV501 offers a good value proposition for budget-conscious buyers, providing a range of features and decent performance at a lower cost. Dyson vacuums, while more expensive, offer advanced technology, stronger suction, and a more premium build quality.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Navigator NV501 features a sturdy, functional design with a focus on versatility. Its Lift-Away feature allows users to detach the canister for portable cleaning, and it comes with a range of attachments for various cleaning tasks. While the design is somewhat dated, the components are solid and durable.
Dyson vacuums are known for their sleek, modern designs and high-quality materials. They often incorporate innovative features, such as ball technology for maneuverability and laser dust detection for enhanced visibility. Dyson’s cordless vacuums are lightweight and easy to maneuver, while their upright vacuums offer powerful suction and advanced filtration.
Performance Face-Off
Bare Floors
The Shark Navigator NV501 performs well on bare floors, effectively picking up dust and debris. It has a brush roll on/off switch to prevent scattering on hard surfaces. Dyson vacuums, particularly those with soft roller cleaner heads (like the V8 Absolute’s Fluffy cleaner head), excel at cleaning bare floors, capturing fine dust and larger debris.
Carpets
The Shark Navigator NV501 is effective on both low and high-pile carpets, thanks to its strong suction and motorized brush roll. It may require multiple passes to remove deeply embedded dirt. Dyson vacuums, with their powerful suction and advanced brush head designs, provide excellent carpet cleaning performance. Some models also feature automatic suction adjustment based on floor type.
Pet Hair
Both the Shark Navigator NV501 and Dyson vacuums are capable of removing pet hair from various surfaces. The Shark Navigator NV501 comes with a pet power brush attachment for lifting pet hair from carpets and upholstery. Dyson vacuums often include de-tangling technology and specialized pet tools for efficient pet hair removal.
Edge Cleaning
Both vacuums perform reasonably well along edges, but may require the use of attachments to reach tight corners and crevices. Dyson’s slim cleaner head designs may offer an advantage in reaching under furniture and along baseboards.
Special Features Comparison
Shark Navigator NV501:
- Lift-Away Design: Allows the canister to be detached for portable cleaning of stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control and maneuverability around furniture.
- LED Headlights: Illuminates the cleaning path for enhanced visibility.
Dyson Vacuums:
- Dyson Hyperdymium Motor: Generates powerful suction for deep cleaning.
- Root Cyclone Technology: Captures dust and debris from the airflow, preventing loss of suction.
- Laser Dust Detection: Reveals hidden dust and debris on hard floors.
- LCD Screen: Reports on run time, power mode, and maintenance alerts.
- De-Tangling Brush Heads: Automatically clear wrapped hair from the brush bar.
Usability and User Experience
The Shark Navigator NV501 is easy to use and maneuver, thanks to its swivel steering and lightweight design. The Lift-Away feature adds to its versatility, allowing users to easily switch between upright and portable cleaning modes.
Dyson vacuums are designed with user experience in mind. Their cordless models are lightweight and easy to maneuver, while their upright models offer powerful suction and advanced features. Dyson’s LCD screens and intuitive controls make it easy to monitor performance and adjust settings.
Maintenance and Longevity
The Shark Navigator NV501 requires regular maintenance, including emptying the dust cup and cleaning the filters. Replacement parts are readily available and relatively inexpensive. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty.
Dyson vacuums also require regular maintenance, such as emptying the dust bin and cleaning the filters. Dyson’s high-quality components and durable construction contribute to their longevity. They typically come with a 2-year warranty.
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for a versatile and functional vacuum cleaner.
- Users who need a lightweight vacuum for cleaning stairs and hard-to-reach areas.
- Those who appreciate a corded vacuum with a long reach.
- Individuals with allergies or sensitivities who need a vacuum with HEPA filtration.
Who Should Buy Dyson?
- Those who prioritize superior suction power and advanced technology.
- Users who prefer a cordless vacuum for greater convenience and maneuverability.
- Pet owners who need a vacuum with de-tangling technology and specialized pet tools.
- Individuals who are willing to invest more for a premium build quality and sleek design.
Final Recommendation
The choice between the Shark Navigator NV501 and a Dyson vacuum depends on individual needs and preferences. The Shark Navigator NV501 offers a compelling balance of features and performance at a more accessible price point, making it a good option for budget-conscious buyers. Dyson vacuums, on the other hand, provide superior suction power, advanced technology, and a premium build quality, making them a worthwhile investment for those who prioritize top-of-the-line cleaning performance.
