Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum or Shark Wandvac Lightweight Handheld Vacuum? Which Shark Model to Buy
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Links on this page are affiliate links.
You are looking at the shark navigator lift away upright vacuum vs wv201 wandvac handheld. Both are Shark models designed for effective cleaning, but they serve very different needs. The Navigator is a full-sized upright system for whole-home deep cleaning. The Wandvac is a compact handheld unit for quick spot cleaning. You need to decide between comprehensive coverage and portable convenience.
Key differences
| Aspect | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Shark Wandvac Lightweight Handheld Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12.5 pounds | 1.4 pounds |
| Power Source | Corded (implied by upright design and lack of cordless spec) | Cordless |
| Filtration | HEPA | Standard dust/debris filtration |
| Brushroll | DuoClean PowerFins | None listed |
| Dimensions | 15 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches | 16.5 x 2.5 x 2.4 inches |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum if
- You need a primary vacuum for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors throughout your entire home.
- You have allergies and require HEPA filtration to trap dust and allergens inside the machine.
- You want a self-cleaning brushroll that prevents hair wrap on pet hair.
Choose Shark Wandvac Lightweight Handheld Vacuum if
- You need a lightweight tool for quick cleanups on stairs, upholstery, or in cars.
- You want a cordless device that is easy to store and maneuver with one hand.
- You prefer a vacuum that weighs only 1.4 pounds for effortless handling.
Verdict: Choose the Navigator if you need a robust main vacuum for daily whole-home cleaning. Pick the Wandvac if you only need a portable tool for small messes and above-floor surfaces. They complement each other well if you have space for both.
Navigator vs Wandvac Core Specs
Weight and portability
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away weighs 12.5 pounds. This is a substantial weight for an upright vacuum, though the Lift-Away pod allows you to detach it for stairs or furniture. The Shark Wandvac WV201 weighs only 1.4 pounds. It is designed as a handheld device for quick cleanups. You will find the Wandvac significantly easier to carry around the house or store in a closet. The Navigator requires more effort to maneuver on floors due to its full upright structure.
Filtration system
Filtration matters if you have allergies or pets. The Navigator includes a HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. This system traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum. The Wandvac lists general filtration technology that captures dust and large debris. It does not specify HEPA certification in the provided data. If you need to trap microscopic particles and allergens, the Navigator’s sealed HEPA system offers a clear advantage over the Wandvac’s standard filtration.
Cleaning surface types
The Navigator uses DuoClean PowerFins Technology. This combines a PowerFins brushroll and a soft roller. It deep cleans carpets and area rugs while directly engaging hard floors. The Wandvac is a handheld unit. It includes a Multi-Surface Pet Tool for upholstery and carpets, plus a Duster Crevice Tool. The Wandvac is better for spot cleaning on stairs, cars, or furniture. The Navigator is built for whole-home floor cleaning on both carpets and hard surfaces.
Dust disposal method
Both models use bagless designs, but the mechanisms differ. The Navigator features a large dust cup that is part of the Lift-Away pod. You detach the pod to empty it or clean above-floor areas. The Wandvac features a one-touch empty button. You press a button to release debris from the detachable dust cup without getting your hands dirty. The Wandvac’s single-touch emptying is more convenient for quick, small messes. The Navigator’s larger capacity handles bigger jobs.
Size and dimensions
The Navigator measures 15 inches long, 11.4 inches wide, and 45.5 inches high. It is a full-sized appliance that requires floor space for storage. The Wandvac measures 16.5 inches long, 2.5 inches wide, and 2.4 inches high. It is extremely compact and fits easily into small spaces or cabinets. The charging dock for the Wandvac is also designed for quick access and minimal footprint. You will save significant storage space with the Wandvac compared to the upright Navigator.
Specialized features
The Navigator includes LED headlights to illuminate hidden dust on floors. It also offers advanced swivel steering for maneuvering around furniture. The Wandvac features an LED indicator on the control panel to show charging status and remaining battery life. It also includes an ergonomic handle for comfortable handheld use. The Navigator focuses on floor cleaning efficiency and visibility. The Wandvac focuses on handheld comfort and power status monitoring. Each has distinct helpful features for its form factor.
Which Shark Vacuum Fits Your Home
Allergy sufferers needing deep carpet care
Choose the Navigator if you have allergies or pets. Its HEPA filtration traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the unit. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology ensures these particles do not escape back into your air. The self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap, making it ideal for homes with furry animals who shed frequently.
Users needing quick handheld spot cleaning
The Wandvac is the better choice for fast, lightweight cleanup. Weighing only 1.4 pounds, it is easy to carry for stairs or car interiors. The one-touch empty feature lets you dispose of debris without touching it. Its compact size and included crevice tools make it perfect for targeted messes on upholstery or tight spaces.
Those cleaning multiple floor types deeply
Select the Navigator for thorough whole-home cleaning. The DuoClean PowerFins technology combines two brushrolls to pick up debris on carpets and hard floors in a single pass. Advanced swivel steering helps you maneuver around furniture, while LED headlights reveal hidden dust. This upright model offers comprehensive coverage for large areas and varied surfaces.
The products compared
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
Best for: deep carpet cleaning and pet hair removal
- Weight
- 12.5 pounds
- Filtration Type
- HEPA
- Suitable For
- Carpet, Hard Floors
- Features
- HEPA Filtration, Swivel Steering
- Dimensions
- 15 × 11.4 × 45.5 inches
View on Amazon: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Affiliate link
The Shark Navigator NV352 is a 12.5-pound upright vacuum with HEPA filtration. It features DuoClean PowerFins for carpets and hard floors, plus a Lift-Away pod for above-floor cleaning. The self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap. At 45.5 inches tall, it offers whole-home cleaning with swivel steering. This model suits homes needing deep carpet care and allergen control, unlike the lighter WV201 handheld.
Pros
- DuoClean PowerFins technology for carpets and hard floors
- Lift-Away pod for portable above-floor cleaning
- Self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap
- HEPA filtration traps 99.9% of dust and allergens
Cons
- Heavier at 12.5 pounds compared to the 1.4-pound WV201
- Requires manual lifting for stairs and furniture
- Larger footprint than handheld alternatives
Good fit if
- You need deep cleaning on carpets and rugs
- You have allergy concerns requiring HEPA filtration
- You want to clean stairs and upholstery with the Lift-Away pod
Skip if
- You prioritize ultra-lightweight portability under 2 pounds
- You only need quick spot cleaning on hard floors
- You have limited storage space for a 45.5-inch unit
Verdict: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum delivers robust deep cleaning and allergen control for homes with pets and carpets, making it a solid choice for thorough whole-home maintenance rather than quick handheld tasks.
Shark Wandvac Lightweight Handheld Vacuum
Best for: Quick spot cleaning and pet hair on upholstery
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Weight
- 1.4 pounds
- Bag Type
- detachable dust cup
- Dimensions
- 16.5 × 2.5 × 2.4 inches
View on Amazon: Shark Wandvac Lightweight Handheld Vacuum Affiliate link
The Shark WV201 Wandvac is a cordless handheld vacuum weighing just 1.4 pounds. Its compact dimensions of 16.5 x 2.5 x 2.4 inches make it easy to store and maneuver. The unit features a detachable dust cup for one-touch emptying and includes a charging dock for convenient power management. This model is designed for quick cleanups, pet hair removal, and tight spaces rather than whole-home carpet cleaning.
Pros
- Weighs only 1.4 pounds for easy handling
- Includes Multi-Surface Pet Tool and Duster Crevice Tool
- Features a sleek charging dock for fast charging
- One-touch button for emptying the detachable dust cup
Cons
- No HEPA filtration specified in the data
- Small dust cup capacity limits continuous cleaning
- Lacks the deep-cleaning power of an upright model
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight tool for quick spot cleaning
- You want to clean pet hair on upholstery or in cars
- You have limited storage space for a bulky vacuum
Skip if
- You need to deep clean large carpeted areas
- You prefer a full-size upright vacuum for whole-home use
- You require HEPA filtration for allergy management
Verdict: Shark Wandvac Lightweight Handheld is ideal for users who prioritize portability and speed over deep cleaning power. It serves as a practical secondary vacuum for cars, stairs, and upholstery.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Shark Wandvac Lightweight Handheld Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | not stated | Cordless |
| Weight | 12.5 pounds | 1.4 pounds |
| Filtration Type | HEPA | not stated |
| Bag Type | not stated | detachable dust cup |
| Suitable For | Carpet, Hard Floors | not stated |
| Features | HEPA Filtration, Swivel Steering | not stated |
| Dimensions | 15 × 11.4 × 45.5 inches | 16.5 × 2.5 × 2.4 inches |
| Size | 15 in L x 11.4 in W x 45.5 in H | 16.5 x 2.5 x 2.4 Inch |
| Color | Lavender | Slate |
| Model | NV352 | WV201 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away better than the Wandvac for carpets?
Yes, the Navigator is superior for carpet care. It is designed for deep cleaning and pet hair removal on rugs. The Wandvac is a lightweight handheld unit. It weighs only 1.4 pounds. It is not built for deep carpet agitation. Use the Navigator for main floors.
Can I use the Wandvac WV201 on stairs?
Yes, the Wandvac is ideal for stairs. It weighs just 1.4 pounds. This makes it easy to carry up steps. The Navigator is much heavier at 12.5 pounds. While it has a Lift-Away pod, the Wandvac is lighter for quick stair cleaning tasks.
Does the Shark Navigator have HEPA filtration?
Yes, the Navigator includes HEPA filtration. This feature traps dust and allergens inside the unit. It is best for homes with pets or allergies. The Wandvac data does not list filtration specs. You should choose the Navigator if air quality is your primary concern.
Which vacuum is lighter to carry?
The Wandvac is significantly lighter. It weighs only 1.4 pounds. The Navigator weighs 12.5 pounds. The Wandvac is easy to hold for extended periods. The Navigator requires more effort to move around. Choose the Wandvac for portability and light tasks.
Is the Wandvac good for car cleaning?
Yes, the Wandvac is perfect for cars. Its compact size fits in small spaces. It weighs only 1.4 pounds. You can easily maneuver it in vehicles. The Navigator is too large for car interiors. It measures 15 by 11.4 inches. The Wandvac is the practical choice here.
What is the size of the Navigator base?
The Navigator base is 11.4 inches wide. It is 15 inches long and 45.5 inches high. This footprint covers floors efficiently. The Wandvac is much smaller at 2.5 inches wide. The Navigator is a full-sized upright. The Wandvac is a slender handheld device.
Which model is better for upholstery cleaning?
The Wandvac is better for upholstery. It is designed for quick spot cleaning. It weighs only 1.4 pounds. You can easily hold it against furniture. The Navigator is a heavy upright. It is not ideal for delicate fabric surfaces. Use the Wandvac for sofas and chairs.