The Shark Navigator and the Dyson DC65 are two titans in the vacuum cleaner market, both vying for the title of best upright vacuum. The Shark Navigator, known for its affordability and versatility, has consistently offered strong cleaning performance at a price point accessible to many households. The Dyson DC65, on the other hand, built its reputation on innovative technology and powerful suction, appealing to those willing to invest more for premium performance. This review delves into a detailed comparison of these two models, examining their design, performance, features, and overall value to help you determine which vacuum best suits your cleaning needs.
In this comparison, we’ll dissect the nuances of each vacuum, exploring their strengths and weaknesses across various metrics. From suction power and brush roll design to maneuverability and ease of maintenance, we leave no stone unturned. Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, hardwood floors, or thick carpets, understanding the capabilities of the Shark Navigator and Dyson DC65 will empower you to make an informed decision and keep your home spotless.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Shark Navigator: Offers excellent cleaning performance for its price, particularly on carpets. Its lightweight design and swivel steering enhance maneuverability, while the lift-away feature adds versatility.
- Dyson DC65: Delivers superior suction power and advanced brush bar technology, excelling at removing embedded dirt and pet hair. Its self-adjusting cleaner head seamlessly transitions between different floor types.
- Maintenance: The Shark Navigator requires more frequent filter cleaning compared to the Dyson DC65.
- Price: The Shark Navigator is significantly more affordable, making it a budget-friendly option without sacrificing essential features.
- Verdict: The Shark Navigator is a great choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking strong performance and versatility, earning it a score of 7.8/10. The Dyson DC65 is a premium option for those prioritizing top-tier suction and advanced features, scoring it an 8.2/10.
Specifications
| Feature | Shark Navigator | Dyson DC65 |
|---|---|---|
| Model Number | NV356E | DC65 Animal Complete |
| Weight | 13.7 lbs | 17.4 lbs |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 1.2 dry quarts | 0.55 gallons |
| Cord Length | 25 feet | 35 feet |
| Filtration | Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter | Whole-machine HEPA filtration |
| Brush Roll | Standard Brush Roll | Radial Root Cyclone technology brush bar |
| Suction Power | 1200 Watts | 180 Air Watts |
| Floor Types | Carpet, Hardwood, Upholstery | Carpet, Hardwood, Tile |
| Attachments | Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool | Tangle-Free Turbine Tool, Combination Tool, Stair Tool |
| Swivel Steering | Yes | Yes |
| Lift-Away Feature | Yes | No |
| Warranty | 1-Year Limited Warranty | 5-Year Limited Warranty |
| Dimensions | 45.5″ H x 12.1″ W x 11.9″ D | 48″ H x 13.4″ W x 14″ D |
| Additional Features | Brush roll shutoff, Lightweight | Ball technology, Self-adjusting cleaner head |
Price and Availability
As of March 12, 2025, the Shark Navigator can be found at major retailers such as Amazon, Walmart, and Target, typically ranging from $150 to $200. Keep an eye out for deals and refurbished models, which can offer even greater savings. The Dyson DC65, while no longer in production, can still be found through online marketplaces like eBay and refurbished retailers, usually priced between $300 and $400, depending on condition and included accessories. Pricing may vary based on the specific model and included attachments.
Design and Build Quality
The Shark Navigator boasts a lightweight design, primarily constructed from durable plastic. Its maneuverability is enhanced by swivel steering, making it easy to navigate around furniture and tight spaces. The lift-away feature allows the canister to detach from the main body, transforming it into a portable vacuum for cleaning stairs and upholstery. While the build quality is solid for its price point, it lacks the premium feel of the Dyson DC65.
The Dyson DC65 showcases a robust construction with high-quality materials. Its signature ball technology not only provides smooth maneuverability but also houses the motor and cyclone assembly, contributing to a lower center of gravity. The self-adjusting cleaner head automatically adjusts to different floor types, ensuring optimal contact and suction. The overall design exudes durability and engineering excellence, reflecting its higher price tag. Compared to the Shark Navigator, the Dyson DC65 feels more substantial and refined, promising longevity and consistent performance.
Performance and Features
Suction Power and Cleaning Performance
The Shark Navigator delivers impressive suction power, particularly on carpets. It effectively removes surface dirt and debris, making it suitable for everyday cleaning tasks. However, it may struggle with deeply embedded dirt and pet hair compared to the Dyson DC65. The brush roll is effective at agitating carpet fibers, but it lacks the advanced bristle design found in the Dyson.
The Dyson DC65 excels in suction power, thanks to its Radial Root Cyclone technology. This advanced system generates powerful centrifugal forces to capture even the finest dust and allergens. In controlled tests, the DC65 consistently outperformed the Shark Navigator in removing embedded dirt from carpets. Its brush bar, equipped with stiff nylon bristles, effectively agitates carpet fibers and lifts stubborn pet hair. The self-adjusting cleaner head maintains optimal contact with various floor types, ensuring consistent cleaning performance.
Filtration System
The Shark Navigator utilizes Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology coupled with a HEPA filter, capturing 99.9% of dust and allergens. While effective, the filters require regular cleaning to maintain optimal performance. Users should rinse the filters every three months and replace them annually.
The Dyson DC65 features whole-machine HEPA filtration, ensuring that all air expelled from the vacuum is clean and free of allergens. The sealed system prevents dust and allergens from escaping back into the environment. The filters are designed to last the lifetime of the machine, requiring only occasional washing. This advanced filtration system makes the Dyson DC65 an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
Attachments and Versatility
The Shark Navigator comes with a dusting brush and a crevice tool, which are adequate for basic cleaning tasks. The lift-away feature enhances its versatility, allowing it to be used as a portable vacuum for stairs and upholstery. However, the attachments are relatively basic compared to those included with the Dyson DC65.
The Dyson DC65 includes a tangle-free turbine tool, a combination tool, and a stair tool, providing greater versatility for various cleaning needs. The tangle-free turbine tool is particularly effective at removing pet hair from upholstery and carpets without tangling. The combination tool and stair tool are useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. While the DC65 lacks a lift-away feature, its wide range of attachments compensates for this omission.
Battery Life
Since both the Shark Navigator and the Dyson DC65 are corded vacuums, battery life is not applicable.
Software and User Experience
Software and user experience are not applicable for the Shark Navigator and the Dyson DC65 as they are both traditional corded vacuums without smart features.
Comparison to Competitors
Shark Navigator vs. Bissell CleanView: The Bissell CleanView is another budget-friendly upright vacuum. While it offers similar cleaning performance to the Shark Navigator on carpets, it lacks the lift-away feature and swivel steering, making the Shark Navigator more versatile and maneuverable.
Dyson DC65 vs. Hoover WindTunnel T-Series: The Hoover WindTunnel T-Series is a mid-range upright vacuum that offers good suction power and a range of features. However, the Dyson DC65 outperforms the Hoover in terms of suction power, filtration, and overall build quality. The Dyson’s self-adjusting cleaner head and tangle-free turbine tool provide added convenience and effectiveness.
Pros and Cons
Shark Navigator
Pros:
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Lift-away feature enhances versatility
- Good suction power for the price
Cons:
- Requires frequent filter cleaning
- Basic attachments
- Not as effective on embedded dirt and pet hair as premium models
Dyson DC65
Pros:
- Superior suction power
- Advanced brush bar technology
- Whole-machine HEPA filtration
- Self-adjusting cleaner head
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Heavier than the Shark Navigator
- No lift-away feature
The Shark Navigator offers excellent value for money, providing strong cleaning performance and useful features at an affordable price. It is an ideal choice for budget-conscious consumers who want a versatile and maneuverable vacuum for everyday cleaning tasks. While it may not match the premium performance of the Dyson DC65, its price-to-performance ratio is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a reliable and effective vacuum without breaking the bank, the Shark Navigator is a solid option. However, if you can find the Dyson DC65 at a competitive price, it provides great value for money.
Verdict
The Shark Navigator is a well-rounded vacuum that offers a compelling combination of performance, features, and affordability, earning it a score of 7.8/10. Its lightweight design, swivel steering, and lift-away feature make it a versatile choice for various cleaning needs. The Dyson DC65, with its superior suction power and advanced features, remains a top-tier option for those willing to invest in premium performance, scoring it an 8.2/10. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your budget and specific cleaning requirements.
