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Winner
The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe, offers a solid performance in the corded vacuum category, particularly for those with pets and allergies. One of its standout features is the powerful suction, which effectively cleans both carpets and bare floors. The HEPA filtration system, coupled with the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, ensures that dust and allergens are trapped, making it a suitable choice for allergy sufferers. Additionally, the detachable Lift-Away pod allows for easy cleaning under furniture and above the floor, enhancing its versatility.
Weight and maneuverability are other strong points; at nearly 16 pounds, it strikes a balance between sturdiness and ease of handling, complemented by the swivel steering that helps navigate tight spaces. The large 0.9-quart dust cup means fewer interruptions for emptying, which is great for longer cleaning sessions. Plus, with included attachments like the upholstery tool and crevice tool, tackling pet hair becomes much simpler.
However, there are some areas where it could improve. While the vacuum does well on multiple surfaces, its noise level of 80 dB might be a concern for those who prefer quieter cleaning options. The cord length is also adequate but not exceptionally long, which could limit mobility in larger spaces without needing to switch outlets frequently. Furthermore, while it is portable, the assembly requirement may not suit everyone.
The Shark HZ2002 Vertex Ultralight Corded Stick Vacuum stands out for its strong suction power, making it effective on both hard floors and carpets. Its DuoClean PowerFins and self-cleaning brushroll are designed to pick up more dirt and pet hair without the hassle of hair wrap, which is great for pet owners. The vacuum features a 680-watt motor, providing substantial power for thorough cleaning.
However, the dust capacity is relatively small at 0.32 quarts, meaning you may need to empty it more frequently during larger cleaning sessions. Weighing just over 9 pounds, it's relatively lightweight and offers easy maneuverability with advanced swivel steering, making it easy to navigate around furniture. The vacuum can also convert into a handheld model, adding to its versatility for cleaning upholstery and other above-floor areas.
The inclusion of several attachments, like the self-cleaning pet power brush, crevice tool, and dusting brush, makes it well-equipped for various cleaning tasks. The LED headlights are a thoughtful addition, helping you spot hidden debris. While it excels in many areas, its limited dust capacity and potential need for frequent emptying might be drawbacks for some users.
The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Vacuum is a solid choice if you're looking for a versatile corded vacuum that handles multiple cleaning tasks around the home. It offers strong suction powered by a 1.6 horsepower motor, which is powerful enough for carpets and hard floors alike. The vacuum’s standout feature is the Lift-Away pod, allowing you to detach the canister for easier cleaning on furniture, stairs, or under low spaces. This adds great flexibility compared to standard upright vacuums.
For allergy sufferers, its HEPA filtration combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology traps dust and allergens effectively, helping to keep the air cleaner. Maneuverability is enhanced by the advanced swivel steering and the vacuum weighs 15.5 pounds, making it easier to push around furniture and tight corners despite being a bit heavier than some models. The 25-foot cord and 8.4-foot hose give ample reach without constantly changing power outlets. The 0.88-quart dust capacity is moderate, so it may require emptying after thorough cleaning sessions but should be fine for regular household use.
Useful included tools like the wide upholstery tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool expand its usefulness for above-floor cleaning on delicate surfaces, corners, and tight gaps. LED headlights on the nozzle also help reveal hidden debris, which is handy for spotting pet hair or dust in dim areas. One potential drawback is the vacuum’s weight, which might be a bit heavy for some users during extended use, especially if you often carry it upstairs. Also, it has only two speed settings, which could limit control for very delicate surfaces. Nonetheless, the solid build, effective filtration, and versatile attachments make it a great option for most homes, especially those needing a reliable all-around cleaning vacuum with allergy protection.