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Shark Navigator vs Rotator – Comparison of Models

Just an F.Y.I. there are affiliate links in this post, and if you click any of those links, we will earn a small commission.

shark rotator vs navigatorYou will agree with me that Shark is a top vacuum brand just like Dyson and Bissell.

Important

If you want the best value for money, then you need to check out two of the best Shark vacuums; the Rotator and Navigator. The two models have been very dominant in the market, and it is quite hard for homeowners to choose between the two.

If you are not sure what model to go with, this Shark Rotator vs. Navigator comparison review will help you select the right Shark for the job.

As usual, we received the two vacuums and set out on our week-long review testing all the features each model has and comparing to the other.

We also put them under our stringent cleaning test to find out if they are really effective in vacuuming.

So, without further ado, I present to you the Shark Navigator vs. Rotator face to face comparison. But just before that, here is a review of the brand and an overview of the two vacuum models.

Shark

Shark ION

Attention

The brand Shark is part of the larger Euro-Pro group of companies. While Shark is known for the best vacuum cleaners, it has a range of other products to choose from including the famous Shark Ninja juicers.

Since the introduction of Shark to the US market, it has been hell for Dyson, the UK brand that once had the monopoly in vacuuming industry. Shark products are manufactured in China and have an advantage when it comes to the prices.
Today, Shark has 20% market share in the US vacuum cleaner market.

What’s the Difference between Shark Navigator vs. Rotator?

While it is easy to compare other vacuums cleaners, Shark Rotator and Navigator are quite similar, and there exist a few differences between the two. Many websites have tried to compare the two by pointing out some significant differences, but then, they can be 100% correct always.

Important

For example, some websites still mention that Shark Navigators don’t have LED lights. This was true in the past, but now, some Shark Navigators have LED lights.

The idea is that while Shark Navigator and Rotator may be quite different models, their features are more or less the same. They share the same brush roll, HEPA filters, motor, and overall performance.

However, there is very little difference between the two models. Perhaps the only difference we have noted so far is regarding the filter. Shark Rotators come with a cylindrical filter while Navigators come with a flat filter. Another thing, the Rotators tend to be a little heavier than Shark Navigators.

Attention

It is imperative to note that most of the differences that many websites describe; for example LED lights, cleaning path, dustbin, warranty and so on vary depending on the actual model number of the vacuum and not whether it is a Shark Rotator or Navigator.

That means, when shopping, you should focus more on the specific model number you are buying; don’t look at either the Rotator or Navigator as a whole.

Shark Navigator

This is one of the best upright vacuums in the market. Before we go any further, I want to bring to your attention the fact that Shark Navigator is not a specific model.

The Shark Rotator has several models in the market including;
So, what’s the difference between these models?
Nice Choice
Shark NV352 Navigator...
Budget Choice
Shark NV360 Navigator...
Best Choice
Shark NV356E Navigator...
Great Choice
Shark Navigator Powered...
Deluxe Choice
Shark Navigator Deluxe...
Star Rating
Dimensions
15 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches
15 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches
15 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches
12 x 9.4 x 46.1 inches
11.4 x 11.8 x 45.5 inches
Weight
12.5 pounds
13 pounds
13.7 pounds
15.4 pounds
15 pounds
Vacuum Series
Shark Navigator Lift-Away
Shark Navigator Lift-Away
Shark Navigator Professional Lift-Away
Upright and Powered Lift-Away
Shark Navigator Deluxe
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
1.2 dry quarts
1.2 dry quarts
2.2 dry quarts
2.2 dry quarts
1 dry quart
LED light
Cord Length
25 feet
25 feet
30 feet
26 Feet
25 Feet
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
9.25 inches
9.25 inches
9.5 inches
9.5 inches
11” cleaning path
Included Accessories
Dusting Brush, 5.5” Crevice Tool, 24” Bonus Crevice Tool
Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 5.5 inch Crevice Tool
Wide Pet UpholPet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 8" Crevice Toolstery Tool, Dusting Brush, 24" Crevice Tool, 5.5" Crevice Tool
Pet multi-tool, Hard floor attachment, Duster crevice, Appliance wand, Pet-powered brush among others.
5.5" Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush
User Reviews
25,212 Reviews
85,791 Reviews
85,804 Reviews
123 Reviews
4,933 Reviews
Nice Choice
Shark NV352 Navigator...
Star Rating
Dimensions
15 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches
Weight
12.5 pounds
Vacuum Series
Shark Navigator Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
1.2 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
25 feet
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
9.25 inches
Included Accessories
Dusting Brush, 5.5” Crevice Tool, 24” Bonus Crevice Tool
User Reviews
25,212 Reviews
Budget Choice
Shark NV360 Navigator...
Star Rating
Dimensions
15 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches
Weight
13 pounds
Vacuum Series
Shark Navigator Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
1.2 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
25 feet
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
9.25 inches
Included Accessories
Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 5.5 inch Crevice Tool
User Reviews
85,791 Reviews
Best Choice
Shark NV356E Navigator...
Star Rating
Dimensions
15 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches
Weight
13.7 pounds
Vacuum Series
Shark Navigator Professional Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
2.2 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
30 feet
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
9.5 inches
Included Accessories
Wide Pet UpholPet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 8" Crevice Toolstery Tool, Dusting Brush, 24" Crevice Tool, 5.5" Crevice Tool
User Reviews
85,804 Reviews
Great Choice
Shark Navigator Powered...
Star Rating
Dimensions
12 x 9.4 x 46.1 inches
Weight
15.4 pounds
Vacuum Series
Upright and Powered Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
2.2 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
26 Feet
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
9.5 inches
Included Accessories
Pet multi-tool, Hard floor attachment, Duster crevice, Appliance wand, Pet-powered brush among others.
User Reviews
123 Reviews
Deluxe Choice
Shark Navigator Deluxe...
Star Rating
Dimensions
11.4 x 11.8 x 45.5 inches
Weight
15 pounds
Vacuum Series
Shark Navigator Deluxe
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
1 dry quart
LED light
Cord Length
25 Feet
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
11” cleaning path
Included Accessories
5.5" Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush
User Reviews
4,933 Reviews

Last update on 2024-03-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352

Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352
View on Amazon
Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 is among the cheapest and lightest models in the Navigator Series.

It comes with:

  • three attachments;
  • a dusting brush,
  • 5.5” crevice tool,
  • an additional 24” crevice tool.

A 1-year warranty accompanies this vacuum.

This vacuum weighs 12.5lbs. and has a 9.25’’ cleaning path.

The hose and cord length is 5 feet and 25 feet respectively.

Shark Navigator NV360

Shark Navigator NV360
View on Amazon
The second model is the Shark Navigator NV360 that is quite heavy at 16lbs.

But it comes with a wider 11.4’’ cleaning path making it suitable for vacuuming large floors.

This model comes with:

  • 4 attachments including a 5.5’’ crevice tool,
  • dusting brush,
  • pet hair power brush
  • a unique under appliance wand.

The hose and cord length remains 5 feet and 25 feet for maximum maneuverability.


Shark Navigator NV356E

Shark Navigator NV356E
View on Amazon
The third is the Shark Navigator NV356E.

This model comes with:

  • a noticeably larger dustbin and four attachments;
  • hard floor hero,
  • dusting brush,
  • 8’’ crevice tool
  • a pet power brush.

It tags along with a generous lifetime warranty.

It weighs 13.4lbs. and has a wider 11.4’’ cleaning path.

The hose is 5 feet long whereas the power cord is 25 feet so you can get wherever you want without strain.

Shark Navigator NV583

Shark Navigator NV583
View on Amazon
The Shark Navigator NV583 is a pretty new model that even features LED lights.

This vacuum comes with:

  • 6 attachments;
  • pet multi-tool,
  • hard floor attachment,
  • duster crevice,
  • appliance wand,
  • pet-powered brush among others.

It also boasts a lifetime warranty.


Shark Navigator Deluxe

Shark Navigator Deluxe
View on Amazon
Last we have Shark Navigator Deluxe which is another cheap upright vacuum you should consider.

It comes with:

  • a 5.5’’ crevice tool
  • a dusting brush only.

These are just among the many Shark Navigator models in the market.

Remember to precisely ascertain the features each model has, as well as the warranty period.


Shark Rotator

Another popular Shark vacuum model is the Shark Rotator.
Just like the Navigator, there are also several variations of the Shark Rotator classified depending on the features and accessories they come with.
Great Choice
Shark NV752 Rotator...
Good Choice
Shark NV501 Rotator...
Best Choice
Shark Rotator Upright...
Star Rating
Star Rating
13.2 x 11.9 x 45 inches
13.4 x 12.2 x 45.7 inches
11.8 x 11.9 x 461 inches
Weight
15.4 pounds
15.5 pounds
13.2 pounds
Vacuum Series
2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away
2-in-1 Lift-Away
3-in-1 Vacuum Upright Powered Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
1.5 dry quarts
1.3 dry quarts
0.9 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
30 feet
30 feet
30 feet
Finger Tip Controls
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
11.5 inches
9.5 inches
10.5 inches
Included Accessories
Hard Floor Hero, TruePet Mini Motorized Brush, Pet Multi-Tool, Crevice Tool
Dusting Brush, 12" Crevice Tool, Premium Pet Power Brush
Duster Crevice, Pet Multi Tool, Dust-Away Hard Floor Attachment with 1 Microfiber Pad
User Reviews
14,666 Reviews
18,375 Reviews
106 Reviews
Great Choice
Shark NV752 Rotator...
Star Rating
Star Rating
13.2 x 11.9 x 45 inches
Weight
15.4 pounds
Vacuum Series
2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
1.5 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
30 feet
Finger Tip Controls
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
11.5 inches
Included Accessories
Hard Floor Hero, TruePet Mini Motorized Brush, Pet Multi-Tool, Crevice Tool
User Reviews
14,666 Reviews
Good Choice
Shark NV501 Rotator...
Star Rating
Star Rating
13.4 x 12.2 x 45.7 inches
Weight
15.5 pounds
Vacuum Series
2-in-1 Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
1.3 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
30 feet
Finger Tip Controls
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
9.5 inches
Included Accessories
Dusting Brush, 12" Crevice Tool, Premium Pet Power Brush
User Reviews
18,375 Reviews
Best Choice
Shark Rotator Upright...
Star Rating
Star Rating
11.8 x 11.9 x 461 inches
Weight
13.2 pounds
Vacuum Series
3-in-1 Vacuum Upright Powered Lift-Away
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
HEPA
Dust Cup Capacity
0.9 dry quarts
LED light
Cord Length
30 feet
Finger Tip Controls
Swivel Steering
Cleaning Path Width
10.5 inches
Included Accessories
Duster Crevice, Pet Multi Tool, Dust-Away Hard Floor Attachment with 1 Microfiber Pad
User Reviews
106 Reviews

Last update on 2024-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

So, what are some of the popular models and what’s unique about each?

Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away

Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away
View on Amazon
Also known as Shark Rotator NV501, this is among the most popular Shark Rotator vacuums.

There is also a slightly different variation known as Rotator NV502.

The attachments include:

  • a 12’’ crevice tool,
  • straight nozzle,
  • premium pet power brush,
  • upholstery tool,
  • canister caddy,
  • car detail kit, under appliance wand and dust pad.

Accompanying them is a 5-year warranty.

Other notable features include a swivel steering with LED headlights.

Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Speed

Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Speed
View on Amazon
This is a lightweight vacuum cleaner and is also known as NV683, and it measures 47.5″ x 11″ x 12″ with 180AW speed.

So it a challenge to store it since it doesn’t need a lot of space.

The NV683 comes with Dust-Away hard floor attachment and one washable microfiber pad which helps in picking large debris and fine dust from the floor. The dust away pro is used with or without the microfiber pad. The microfiber pad helps in removing the fine dust that is missed by most vacuums.

Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Speed also comes with Duster Crevice which is suitable for cleaning into deep and shallow spaces between objects.

It is also ideal for removing cobwebs and dusting sharp corners.

NV683 packs with it home & car detail tool which comes with micro tools used in cleaning the tiniest spaces.

Lastly, this model also comes with canister caddy, used for portable cleaning and pet multi-tool used in picking up pick up pet hair on upholstery, cushions, stairs and hard to reach places.

Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away True Pet

Shark Rotator TruePet
View on Amazon
This Shark Rotator model is also known as NV752, and it comes with more advanced features compared to order models like NV683, and it measures 45” x 12” x 13.5” with a speed of 270AW.

It is suitable for cleaning surface litter and removing stuck-on debris from the hard floor since it comes with hard floor genie head.

The TruePet motorized brush and pet-multi tool make it most suitable for cleaning pet hair from all surfaces.

It is a 3-in -1 vacuum cleaner, and it comes with canister mode, pod mode or upright mode.

The canister caddy detaches and cleans hard to reach sharp corners and ceiling and still providing enough power to keep brush roll spinning.

These are the most popular Shark Rotator models that we will use in this comparison review. But there are many other models with a few tweaks making them unique, and with different model numbers.

Shark Navigator vs. Shark Rotator Face To Face Comparison Review

Now, having looked at the major models from Shark Rotator and Shark Navigator, it’s time we compare two of the most popular models from the Rotator Series and Navigator Series.

Our two popular models are Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro NV356E and Rotator Lift-Away NV501. If you want the best value for money, go for either of these two. So, what does each model offer?

We decided to compare these two vacuums in light of the important considerations you make before buying a vacuum cleaner.

Important

So, if you are also not sure how to select the best upright vacuum, whether for pets or carpets, this comparison section will also serve as a buying guide. We will first be highlighting particular factors and comparing what each of the two models offers before giving a verdict on the winner.

So, without further ado, let’s get to business.

Dimensions and weight

Important

Vacuuming is something you do on a daily basis, and if you are required to move the vacuum from one place to the other, you will need to consider the dimensions and weight carefully. Well, this is among the areas where the two Shark upright vacuums differ.

So, how does Shark Navigator NV356E compare to Rotator NV501?

Shark Rotator NV501 Dimensions and weight

Here, the dimensions and weight are almost the same only that this model is a bit larger. It measures 45.7 x 12.1 x 12.2 inches and is slightly heavier at 15.5 lbs. The benefit of this model is that the cleaning width stretches to 12-inches.

Dimensions 45.7×12.1×12.2 inches
Weight 15.5 lbs
Сleaning width 12 inches

verdict

Winner: Here, we are torn in between ergonomics and efficiency. Shark Navigator NV356E is lightweight making its handling much easier. On the other hand, Shark Rotator NV501 has a wider cleaning head meaning it will make work easier and faster as you can cover more area with each pass.

What’s the design like?

Important

Even though the design doesn’t necessarily impact on the performance of the vacuum, there are several aspects that you need to consider. A good vacuum cleaner should be ergonomic, versatile and very flexible. But is this what the two vacuums offer?

Shark Rotator NV501 Design

Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away
Has also boasts a clean bin, onboard accessories, upright cord wrap, and a 2-in-1 design.

That means you can vacuum the floor in the upright mode or transform it into a handheld for your upholstery.

The Rotator NV501 comes with an advanced swivel steering mechanism with full LED headlights.

verdict

Winner: No model outshines the other here for any good reason. That said, you can pick any favorite model but trust me, they all look amazing. However, if you fancy the LED lights, then the Shark Rotator NV501 is your best match.

Cleaning head

Important

We have two common types of cleaning heads in Shark upright vacuum cleaners. When buying an upright vacuum, make sure the cleaning head is compatible with the type of surface you are going to be using the vacuum on. So, how does the Rotator NV356E vs. Navigator NV501 battle escalate here?

Shark Rotator NV501 Cleaning head

Shark Rotator Cleaning head
Shark Rotator comes with a hard floor cleaning head. As the name suggests, it is designed for bare floors.

If you have a hard floor; tile or linoleum, make sure to buy the Shark Rotator and not the Navigator. This is because it comes with a hard floor cleaning head and the Navigator doesn’t have the feature.

verdict

Winner: Here, it is hard to call a winner because both cleaning heads are designed for specific purposes. It is a matter of choosing the right vacuum for the job.

Filtration technology

Important

One of the important functions of a vacuum cleaner is air purification. This is a role that’s vested upon the filtration system. When buying a vacuum cleaner, make sure to go for a model that has the most efficient filtration system. This is especially if you have pets and carpets. Allergy sufferers must also be very keen here.

So, what does Shark offer in these two upright vacuums?

Shark Rotator NV501 Filtration technology

Shark Rotator Filtration technology
Shark Rotator comes with the sealed vacuum technology and HEPA filters which make it best for allergy sufferers.

The airtight seal makes sure that all the captured allergens don’t sneak back to the atmosphere.

verdict

Winner: If you have pets, settle for the Shark Rotator as it can seal the bad odor and prevent it from getting back to the atmosphere. However, if you don’t have pets or any allergy concerns, you can as well buy the Navigator as it has HEPA filters.

Bin capacity

Important

When shopping for your next vacuum, make sure to check the bin size. While Shark and Rotator vacuums have almost the same overall size, their bins are quite apart in terms of capacity. So, if you have a lot of dirt to vacuum at a go, make sure to get the largest bin. At least you will cut down the number of times you will be emptying the bin.

So, how does Shark Rotator N356E and Shark Navigator NV501 compare?

Shark Rotator Bin capacity

Shark Rotator comes with an XL-capacity dust cup which ensures that you go for at least a long time before having to empty the bin. It has a capacity or around 3.4L.

verdict

Winner: For these two models, there is no winner when it comes to the bin capacity. However, when choosing other model numbers, make sure to check the bin size as some models like Shark Rocket have smaller bins.

Accessories and attachments

Like said in the introduction, the different Shark vacuum models come with various accessories. When you are choosing between the Rotator NV501 and Navigator NV356E, it is essential to know exactly what accessories are provided for each model, and that’s what we want to look at here.

Shark Rotator NV501 Accessories and attachments

The Shark Rotator comes with:

  • a hard floor cleaning head,
  • HEPA filter,
  • 8’’ crevice tool,
  • dusting brush,
  • pet power brush,
  • upholstery tool,
  • a 30-foot hose.

The only thing you sacrifice is the dust away genie head.

verdict

Winner: As we have seen, the two vacuums share over 80% of the accessories. The difference comes in with the hard floor cleaning head and the dust away genie cleaning head. Shark Rotator comes with a hard floor cleaning head, a feature its counterpart lacks. On the other hand, the Shark Navigator comes with a dust away genie cleaning head. It all depends on your cleaning needs. However, we feel the Shark Rotator deserves recognition for having an upholstery tool which the Navigator lacks.

Cleaning Tests

Many vacuum cleaner brands out there just hype their vacuums, yet they don’t live up to the expectations. At Robotbox, one of our endeavors is to put these vacuums to the test in a real house.

That way, we can separate the wheat from the chaff by identifying the best vacuums as far as performance is concerned.

We also tested the Rotator and Navigator, and in this segment, we are going to share with you the results.

Shark Navigator NV356E Cleaning

93%

Shark Rotator NV501 Cleaning

93%

Just before that, I want to tell you about our testing conditions.
We tested these vacuums oh hard floors (hardwood and tile), low pile carpets and high pile carpet. We scattered some of the common dirt that most American homes face on a daily basis. These include rice, sugar, flour, cereal, sand, kitty litter, pet hair and so on.

So, let’s find out the performance of each vacuum on the variety of surfaces.

Hard floors (Hardwood/Tile)

The tests on the hardwood floor and tile floor were very similar.

Shark Rotator NV501 Hard floors

The Rotator was able to vacuum all the dirt that was on its way very effectively.

The 1200W motor provided just enough suction to wipe out everything including the tiny flour particles and kitty litter.

Attention

But the most important feature is the Hard Floor Hero tool designed for Even though some pet hair was being blown away, at the end of the day, it was a job well done!

Shark Rotator Cleaning

92%
verdict

Winner: In as much as both vacuums offer a great performance of hard floors, there is one distinction to guide you. Buy the Rotator if you have a hard floor cleaning head as it is specially designed for hard floors. However, for hardwood floor owners and pet owners as well, you will benefit from the dust away genie cleaning head which is gentle on carpets and unforgiving on pet hair.

Important

The most important thing is to make sure that you weigh your cleaning needs and pick the model that comes with the appropriate cleaning head. Fortunately, you can buy either cleaning head so even if you end up with dust away genie cleaning head instead of the hard floor hero, you can still save yourself.

Low Pile Carpet

Low pile carpet as you understand doesn’t have a very thick fabric and has fewer slots where dirt can hide.

Rotator NV501 Low Pile Carpet

The Shark Rotator delivered excellent vacuum power that was able to capture all the dirt on low pile carpets and rugs. The only problem was the flour that left a few patches after the first pass. But on the second pass, everything vanished.

When it comes to dirt pickup, the Rotator looked more ready for the job courtesy of the dust away genie cleaning head that is designed like a traditional brushroll. It was better in agitating dirt and lifting also.

Shark Rotator Cleaning

95%
verdict

Winner: First, I want to acknowledge the fact that both vacuum cleaners have what it takes to suck all the dirt from light pile carpets and rugs. But the pickup is not the same in both models because of the cleaning heads included.

High Pile Carpet

On high pile carpet, the difference between the performances of the two vacuums starts to deviate because of the pickup head.

Rotator NV501 High Pile Carpet

Shark Rotator comes with a hard floor cleaning head and as the name suggests it is designed for hard floors. That means the Rotator relies basically on the vacuum power.

This vacuum picked up most of the dirt on its path, save for a few patches of flour here and there, as well as a few pet hair.

Shark Rotator Cleaning

72%
verdict

Winner: Here, we give credit to the Shark Navigator solely because of the dust away genie cleaning head which can lift dirt more efficiently than the hard floor cleaning head. Otherwise, regarding vacuuming power, they are all equal.

Usability

Important

Now, one last thing you should be aware of before settling for either of these vacuums is the usability. I’m sure you want something that’s easy to use. This is especially for the busy homes that need vacuuming on a daily basis.

So, which of the two vacuums offers the best usability?

NV501

Shark Rotator Usability
Shark Rotator comes with a swivel steering and offers the best maneuverability. It can turn 90-degrees, lay flat and more in just any direction. The presence of headlights also means you can vacuum in the dark with no problem.

verdict

Winner: The extra headlamps on the Shark Rotator make the difference here. While the swivel steering is a standard feature in both models, the headlights make the Shark Rotator the best in terms of usability.

Maintenance

Important

Definitely, just like all the other cleaning equipment, an upright vacuum will require maintenance. Some have high maintenance requirements while others require very little maintenance.

Before you decide on which Shark to buy, better understand the maintenance requirements of each. You don’t want something that will be taking much of your precious time to change the filters or brushes.

So, let’s find out the winner between Shark NV356E and NV501.

Shark Rotator NV501 Maintenance

The Rotator, on the other hand, comes with washable and replaceable foam and felt filters that are to be replaced after 8-12 months as well.

The HEPA filters and the hard floor cleaning head, on the other hand, will require a replacement after 24 months.

verdict

Winner: I wouldn’t say that there is an easier option when it comes to maintenance. You will need to replace the filters or clean the unit depending on your usage. Just to mention, the more wear and tear you put your vacuum through, the more maintenance it will require. Above all, make sure you use your vacuum for the right job. While the Rotator seems to be a great deal because of the extended life of its head, remember your primary concern is the cleaning needs no maintenance.

Assembly

Most upright vacuums, as well as stick vacuums, come preassembled. Perhaps robot vacuums are the only ones which come with every part assembled.

But then, the assembly varies from one model to the other with vacuums that have lesser parts being the most desirable.

But then, less parts in an upright vacuum is a far-fetched dream because there are a lot of small components that are shipped with these vacuums.

Rotator NV501 Assembly

The Rotator too isn’t very easy to assemble as the parts are so many just like in the Shark Navigator.

But with the usual drill of identifying the parts first, it’s an easy hack. It also comes with a clear installation guide to kick-start the assembly.

verdict

Winner: Here, we don’t think there is a winner because both vacuums come with almost the same number of parts. Remember, the more the parts, the higher the chances of having a hard time assembling the unit.

Our verdict: What’s the best choice?

Now, we are almost coming to the end of our Shark Rotator N356E vs. Navigator NV501 comparison review.

By now, you should be able to make the right choice regarding what model you want between the Navigator and Rotator.

But just to help a few who might have got stuck, here are a few recommendations for each model.

Buy Shark Navigator if;

  • You have pets: the dust away genie cleaning head is like a traditional brushroll
  • You have hardwood floor: The dust away genie cleaning head is gentle
  • You are on a budget: at least it saves you a few bucks

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better Shark Navigator or Rotator?

Shark Navigator and Shark Rotator series are quite similar in many respects and feature the same high quality and functionality. So, when choosing the best Shark, you`d better compare definite models with their characteristics.

FAQ

Is the Shark Rotator a good vacuum for pet hair?

Shark Rotators are suitable for carpet cleaning, as they all are equipped with powerful motors, motorized multi-surface heads, anti-allergen HEPA filters. Some models have pet attachments to deal with hair in upright and handheld configurations.

What is the difference between Shark Navigator and Shark Rotator?

These series have very few differences, which can be clearly seen only in the course of models face to face comparison. However, there are some distinguishing features common for all Navigators and all Rotators. Thus, as a rule, Rotators have longer cords. They all are equipped with LED lights, while among Navigators only Navigator Powered Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum NV583 can boast of such an element. If you want to see more differences and similarities, look for comparison reviews of specific Shark vacuums.

Is the Shark Navigator Lift Away cordless?

All Shark Navigator Lift Away vacuum models are corded. The length of the cord varies from 25 to 30 feet.

Do Shark Navigators use washable filters?

Shark Navigator vacuums come with 3 filters. They are washable. You should rinse them with cold water and dry. The manufacturer recommends us to clean filters once in 2-3 months.

Final words

Indeed, the Rotator and Navigator are two of the best models from Shark. While they may bear so much resemblance, they are unique in their own way.

But then, when shopping, it’s advisable to watch out for the specific model numbers of each one of them.

Attention

Remember, Shark and Rotator have so much in common, but it’s the number of accessories that really make a difference.

The only way to pick your best Shark upright vacuum will be to consider the specific model number and accessories and not just choosing any Rotator or Navigator.

Diane Smith

Anybody that would make a pet vac with a non removable brush needs there head examined.

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