Shark or DEWALT? Cordless Vacuums Compared in 2026
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When you compare a shark vs DEWALT cordless vacuum, you face two very different tools. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a full-size upright designed for whole-home cleaning on carpets and hard floors. The DEWALT DCV501HB is a compact, 20V hand vacuum built for quick jobs and fine dust. Both use HEPA filtration to trap allergens. The main difference is form factor and intended use: one cleans rooms, while the other handles debris in tight spaces or workshops.
Key differences
| Aspect | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Upright with Lift-Away pod | Handheld |
| Weight | 12.5 pounds | 6.83 pounds |
| Power Source | Corded | 20V Cordless |
| Runtime | Not listed | Up to 214 minutes with dcb205 battery |
| Brushroll | DuoClean PowerFins with self-cleaning | Not listed |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum if
- You need to clean large areas of carpet and hard floors throughout your home.
- You want a self-cleaning brushroll that prevents hair wrap on pet hair.
- You prefer a corded unit for continuous power without worrying about battery life.
Choose DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum if
- You need a lightweight tool for quick pickups in garages or workshops.
- You want to vacuum fine dust like concrete or drywall with HEPA filtration.
- You need a portable vacuum that runs on a standard 20V battery system.
Verdict: Choose the Shark Navigator if you are looking for a primary vacuum for daily whole-home cleaning. Pick the DEWALT hand vacuum if you need a specialized tool for light-duty tasks, fine dust, or areas where a full-sized vacuum is too bulky.
Shark vs DEWALT Vacuum Specs
suitable for
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a full-size upright vacuum designed for whole-home cleaning. It features DuoClean PowerFins to deep clean carpets and engage hard floors. The Lift-Away pod allows for portable cleaning on stairs and furniture. The DEWALT DCV501HB is a compact hand vacuum. It is built for quick jobs and fine dust like concrete or drywall. You use it for small areas rather than entire rooms. The Shark handles large spaces. The DEWALT handles specific, localized messes. They serve different cleaning needs.
runtime
The DEWALT DCV501HB offers up to 214 minutes of runtime per charge when using the DCB205 battery. This allows for extended use on smaller tasks. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a corded upright vacuum. It does not rely on battery power, so it has unlimited runtime while plugged in. You do not need to worry about charging it for large cleaning sessions. The DEWALT provides battery freedom for short bursts. The Shark provides continuous power for long jobs. Both have distinct advantages based on your power source preference.
voltage
The DEWALT DCV501HB operates on a 20V power source. This voltage supports its cordless operation and suction performance for a hand vacuum. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a corded unit. It does not list a voltage specification in its data. It draws power directly from your home outlet. You cannot compare the voltage numbers directly. The DEWALT relies on its 20V battery system. The Shark relies on mains electricity. Both deliver power, but through different methods.
weight
The DEWALT DCV501HB weighs 6.83 pounds. This light weight makes it easy to carry for quick cleanups or above-floor tasks. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away weighs 12.5 pounds. This is heavier due to its upright design and larger components. However, the Shark features a Lift-Away pod that you can detach. This allows you to carry just the lighter pod for stairs. The DEWALT is lighter overall. The Shark offers modular weight distribution. The DEWALT is easier to lift entirely.
filtration
Both vacuums feature HEPA filtration. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away uses HEPA filtration combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. This traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum. It is suitable for allergy-prone households. The DEWALT DCV501HB also includes a HEPA filter. This allows for efficient vacuuming of fine dust such as concrete and drywall. Both products filter fine particles effectively. The Shark focuses on allergen sealing. The DEWALT focuses on fine dust capture. Both meet high filtration standards.
features
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away includes several specialized features. It has DuoClean PowerFins for carpet and hard floor cleaning. It also includes a self-cleaning brushroll to prevent hair wrap. LED headlights illuminate dirt, and swivel steering aids maneuverability. The DEWALT DCV501HB has a push-button release for quick emptying. It is designed for dry hand vacuuming. The Shark offers more complex cleaning technologies for floors. The DEWALT offers simplicity for debris removal. The Shark has more active cleaning features.
Choose the right vacuum for your needs
You need whole-home carpet and floor cleaning
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a full-size upright with DuoClean PowerFins technology. It combines a PowerFins brushroll for carpets and a soft roller for hard floors. At 12.5 pounds, it offers advanced swivel steering for maneuvering around furniture. The Lift-Away feature lets you detach the pod for stairs and upholstery. HEPA filtration traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
You want a lightweight tool for quick cleanup jobs
The DEWALT DCV501HB is a compact hand vacuum weighing only 6.83 pounds. It runs on a 20V battery system and provides up to 214 minutes of runtime. The HEPA filter captures fine dust like concrete and drywall. A push-button release makes emptying the canister quick. Its small size, measuring 20.4 inches long, is ideal for targeted debris removal.
You have pets and need hair pickup without wrap
The Shark Navigator includes a self-cleaning brushroll that continuously removes hair wrap. It comes with a Pet Power Brush for stubborn hair on stairs and an Upholstery Tool for furniture. The Lift-Away pod allows you to take the vacuum to specific areas. LED headlights illuminate hidden debris. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology helps manage pet dander and dust.
You need a durable tool with a warranty
The DEWALT DCV501HB comes with a 3 Year Limited Warranty. It is built for dry jobs and handles fine dust efficiently. The 20V power source allows for up to 15 tank fills per charge. The yellow design is distinct and easy to spot. Its cordless nature and lightweight build make it easy to store and carry for various tasks.
The products compared
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
Best for: Allergy-prone homes with pets and stairs
- 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 Lift-Away NV352 is a 12.5-pound upright vacuum with HEPA filtration. Its DuoClean PowerFins technology uses two brushrolls for deep carpet cleaning and hard floor engagement. The detachable Lift-Away pod allows for portable above-floor cleaning. Advanced swivel steering and LED headlights improve maneuverability and visibility. This model suits allergy-prone households and pet owners seeking thorough debris removal.
Pros
- HEPA filtration traps 99.9% of dust and allergens
- DuoClean PowerFins technology cleans carpets and hard floors
- Self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap
- Lift-Away pod enables portable cleaning on stairs and furniture
Cons
- Fixed upright design limits portability compared to stick vacuums
- No battery or cordless operation
- No app connectivity or digital display
Good fit if
- You need HEPA filtration for allergy control
- You want to clean above-floor surfaces like stairs
- You have pets and need hair removal tools
Skip if
- You require a lightweight cordless stick vacuum
- You need app-based smart controls
- You prefer a compact, battery-powered design
Verdict: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright offers strong filtration and versatile cleaning modes for homes with pets and allergies. It fits buyers who prioritize deep carpet cleaning and above-floor portability over cordless convenience.
DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum
Best for: fine dust and extended runtime
- Power Source
- Cordless
- Battery Voltage
- 20V
- Runtime
- up to 214 minutes
- Weight
- 6.83 pounds
- Filtration Type
- HEPA
- Suitable For
- Car
View on Amazon: DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum Affiliate link
The DEWALT 20V Cordless Dry Hand Vacuum is a compact tool for fine dust. It weighs 6.83 pounds and uses a HEPA filter to trap particles like concrete and drywall. You get up to 214 minutes of runtime on a single charge. The push-button canister release simplifies emptying. It suits users needing portable, high-efficiency filtration for small messes.
Pros
- HEPA filtration captures fine dust
- Up to 214 minutes runtime
- Push-button canister release
- Lightweight 6.83 pounds build
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Only 3-year limited warranty
- Single size option
Good fit if
- You need HEPA filtration for drywall dust
- You want long runtime for extended use
- You prefer a lightweight handheld design
Skip if
- You need a full-size upright vacuum
- You require included battery power
- You want a larger capacity canister
Verdict: DEWALT 20V Hand Vacuum delivers extended runtime and precise HEPA filtration for fine dust. It fits users who need a lightweight, portable tool for specific dry cleanup tasks.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | not stated | Cordless |
| Battery Voltage | not stated | 20V |
| Runtime | not stated | up to 214 minutes |
| Weight | 12.5 pounds | 6.83 pounds |
| Filtration Type | HEPA | HEPA |
| Suitable For | Carpet, Hard Floors | Car |
| Voltage | not stated | 20V |
| Features | HEPA Filtration, Swivel Steering | HEPA Filtration, LED Headlights |
| Dimensions | 15 × 11.4 × 45.5 inches | 20.4 × 7.44 × 9.19 inches |
| Size | 15 in L x 11.4 in W x 45.5 in H | One Size |
| Color | Lavender | Yellow |
| Model | NV352 | DCV501HB |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away cordless?
No, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away (model NV352) is a corded upright vacuum. It does not use a battery or voltage system. You must plug it into a wall outlet to operate. This design provides continuous power without worrying about runtime limits, making it suitable for large cleaning sessions.
How heavy is the DEWALT hand vacuum?
The DEWALT 20V Cordless Hand Vacuum (model DCV501HB) weighs 6.83 pounds. This lightweight design makes it easy to carry for quick cleanups. It is significantly lighter than the Shark Navigator, which weighs 12.5 pounds. The lower weight helps reduce fatigue during handheld use.
Does the DEWALT vacuum have HEPA filtration?
Yes, the DEWALT DCV501HB includes HEPA filtration. This feature captures fine dust particles, which is helpful for allergy-prone homes. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away also features HEPA filtration. Both models provide similar air filtration benefits for trapping allergens and fine debris during use.
What is the size of the DEWALT hand vacuum?
The DEWALT DCV501HB measures 20.4 inches in length, 7.44 inches in width, and 9.19 inches in height. It is a compact tool designed for portability. In comparison, the Shark Navigator is much larger, measuring 45.5 inches in height and 15 inches in length.
Can I clean stairs with the Shark Navigator?
Yes, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away is designed for this task. Its Lift-Away feature allows you to detach the pod for portable cleaning. This makes it easy to vacuum stairs, furniture, and above-floor areas. It is best for homes with pets and stairs where versatility is key.
What voltage does the DEWALT vacuum use?
The DEWALT DCV501HB operates on a 20V power system. This voltage supports extended runtime for specific dry cleanup tasks. The Shark Navigator does not use a voltage rating as it is a corded model. The DEWALT system is ideal for users needing a portable, battery-powered tool.
Is the Shark Navigator good for hard floors?
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is designed for both carpets and hard floors. It features DuoClean PowerFins technology to engage hard surfaces effectively. This makes it a strong choice for whole-home cleaning. It prioritizes deep cleaning on various floor types over the specialized handheld use of the DEWALT.