Rotator Or Navigator - Which is the Best Vacuum Cleaner?
When you are shopping for a Shark vacuum cleaner, the decision often comes down to the Shark Rotator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum vs Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright vacuum.
Where the Units Are Equivalent
Both Shark vacuums are quieter than the competition, primarily the Dyson and Dirt Devil. Both vacuum models have HEPA filters you can wash and re-use, reducing the unit’s lifetime cost. The Shark Navigator and Shark Rotator each have high quality seals to prevent the dirt and debris you’ve vacuumed from escaping out of the canister and into the air. Both vacuums work well on hard floors and carpets, with superb suction. Both vacuums have the same basic tool set of the dusting brush, crevice tool, pet tools and tool holders.
These vacuums all come with the five year Shark vacuum warranty. This includes the hassle of sending vacuums back for repair to their approved repair centers at your own cost if they don’t have one near you. Customer service is slow to send replacement parts under warranty, usually taking 7 to 10 business days. They send replacement parts ordered through the website more quickly if you simply order them without going through the warranty process.
Now let’s do a comparison between the two models
Shark Rotator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum NV501
The Shark Rotator is both an upright vacuum cleaner and portable vacuum cleaner. You can separate the Lift-Away pod to turn it into a portable vacuum. It comes with tools to let you clean your car. If the ability to do all of your cleaning with one vacuum is appealing, you’ll prefer this model. Plus you can get rid of your Dirt Devil handheld vacuum. One caveat is that you’ll need the hand tools to get under low slung furniture, if the vacuum head can’t go under them. Comes with headlights to easily see the debris hiding under furniture or other areas with low light visibility
This vacuum may be better at cleaning your deep carpets than the Shark Navigator, once the brush roll is in place. However, it is not as easy to maneuver as the Shark Navigator. This is despite only being 16 pounds or so in weight. The cord is 30 feet long, which can be very handy when cleaning large rooms and not needing to plug and unplug from one power socket to another. The rolling caddy is another great accessory for you to do furniture and curtains while the unit rolls along with you together with cleaning tools on board. It has a 11.5 inch cleaning path.
Click Here For Shark Rotator User Reviews
Click Here For Shark Rotator TruePet NV752 User Reviews
Shark Navigator Lift Away Professional Upright
The Shark Navigator has a dust-away bare floor attachment which is highly effective replacement to a Swifter on your wood floors and tile surfaces.
For those debating between the Shark Rotator Vs Navigator, the Shark Rotator has superior features at a higher price while the navigator has the adequate features that will get the job done and will cost your less. It has greater capacity and better tools for removing pet hair. It has a 9 inch cleaning path. Slightly narrower path than the Rotator.
The Shark Navigator has controls to turn the brush roll on and off. Use the brush roll when vacuuming carpets.
The Shark Navigator is one of the easiest Shark models to find. It is available at Lowe’s, Bed, Bath and Beyond and other major retailers. If you don’t want to go to the store, you can order it through either Amazon.com or Shark’s website.
The Shark Navigator does a good job when cleaning as an upright vacuum. It has a removable canister for localized cleaning such as stairs and furniture cleaning like the Shark Rotator, but it doesn’t have tools for cleaning things like cars. However, you do get a broader assortment of tools. Some user complaints focus on the number of clips to hold attachments and confusion on where everything goes, in addition to the tools kept in the attachment bag. The attachment hose is not very long, so using the attachments to clean isn’t as convenient as using the upright vacuum cleaner.
The Shark Navigator wins when it comes to ease of use and cost. The 30 foot cord means you can clean most rooms without having to unplug and re-plug it in. It is 14 pounds and easier to handle than the Rotator. Does not come with headlights like the Rotator.
Click Here For User Reviews Of Shark Navigator
sandy griffin says
will the attachments for the rotator fit a shark lift away portable?
I am a senior citizen with strength but no a lot of endurance. I have 2 dogs, lots of pet hair and dust always seems to be around even after we clean. What vacuum do I need.
I would advise a lightweight vacuum. The Oreck Insight would be a good upright vacuum choice while the shark HV302 or the Shark Truepet HV322 are 2 good lightweight stick vacuums that you can look into.
David says
I use oreick daily at work and have a shark. I like the shark a lot more. Oreck does not favor all carpet types.
Beth M says
Finally had to say goodbye to my 12 year old shark and break down and buy a new one. After doing careful research online I purchased a Shark Rotator figuring the extra money would be worth it. It arrived and I am speechless with joy and satisfaction at this vacuum cleaner: it is superb. It’s suction is unlike anything I’ve ever used before, it is lightweight, the tools that come with it are amazingly applicable and useful.I could not be happier, so glad that I did not have to purchase a Dyson.
Christine says
did you get the shark rotator pro NV552 for 229.99 and says its 14 lbs. or the other one for $199 model is shark rotator pro NV356E. There is another Rotator power lift away true pet for $349.99. WHich did you get? you seem very happy and that it isnt really heavy which is what I need. Thats why I picked the one that was $229.99. it has lots of attachments, says its lightweight and got 4 and half star rating. please let me know which you got.
The NV552 is on Walmart dot comma for $179 as of today. I think I’m going with the NV752 from Bed Bath & Beyond for $349 with 20% off coupon which is very common and easily obtained.
I have an older Navigator and have been very happy with it, and Shark customer service. A couple of years ago I had a problem with the power brush. Via telephone, they walked me through a trouble shooting sequence and ended up sending me a new assembly for free, even though the unit was technically out of warranty!
L Evenson says
Late reply but I just got the Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet (NV752) and for me as a senior citizen it is very heavy and the caddy is not worth it as it just does not follow behind you well. Had a Navigator for years and may ask family to return the NV 752 to one that is more useable in real life for me
Maureen says
I have a Shark Navigator and I couldn’t be happier. Probably THE BEST vacuum cleaner I have used next to the Hoover Lark.I had that one for over 30 years and it never ever failed or needed to be repaired. When I gave it away it still worked!
The Shartk has some of the same features that the Lark had which is the ‘beats as it sweeps as it cleans’ feature. This is so great for your carpets.
I am looking for something a little easier for every day use as I have arthritis in all my joints, and I have been reviewing the Dyson DC45. Does Shark have a good stick vacuum that I haven’t heard of?
Hi, yes the Shark Navigator is one of the best value for money vacuums around. Re. Stick vacuums, the Shark Rocket TruePet HV322 is the one of the popular vacuum by shark and it weighs less than 8 Lbs and it come with a removable handheld vacuum . The other Stick vacuums worth checking out from Shark are the Shark Rocket HV301 / HV302 and the Shark SV1106 and Shark Rocket UV450. Hope that helps.
rik kg says
Hey,
I have a Navigator. I need a new vac. Name brand or $ don’t mean anything now. How do I find the strongest suction, best seal (if needed) w/best filtration? Please tell me or tell me where to look. Thanx soooo much. rk
Joe says
If money isn’t a concern, then get a Kirby. It has its own transmission! It’s powerful!
Helen pitts says
I used to have a navigator and let my daughter have it. Will the rotator be harder to pull back on carpet for my lower back? If so, I guess I will get another navigator lift away. Ty
Hi, if weight is a consideration then I would suggest the Shark Navigator as it weighs about 2 pounds less than the Shark Rotator, so easier to pull, push and maneuver with limited body effort. But for more power the Shark Rotator would be the better choice. Good luck!
Christine says
did you get the navigator that costs $339 or there about? I was going to get that one but it seemed more than my budget allowed and the one right below it, the rotator got great reviews. I hope I’m not making a mistake.
but the navigator is so much more money isnt it? even though it weighs 2 lbs less? I have titanium rods in my entire spine and right now I have an old hoover. I have no idea how much it weighs but it feels really heavy to push. I cant imagine any models today being that hard to push and that heavy. But now I’m confused. I thought I really studied the 3 top of the line sharks and found the rotator was the best bang for the buck. I hope I;m not making a mistake.
Hi Christine, all the Shark models mentioned in this article are good powerful vacuum cleaners in their own right. They are not hard to push on low or medium pile carpets, but I would not call them lightweight. You can check out this Shark model that weighs only 10.6 Lbs - Also you can have a look at the this bagged Hoover model which weighs less than 12 Lbs. Good luck!
C Hart says
I have primarily bare floors and a few area rugs. I would also like to be able to get under furniture (my couch, for example). Should I consider either of these models?
Hi, you will need a low profile vacuum. The Rotator would be the better choice for you. The Shark Rotator 501 is suitable for both bare floors and carpets and comes with a caddy, which allows you to convert your upright vacuum into a canister vacuum. Vacuuming under furniture is easy once the vacuum is in the canister mode. This is one of the useful features of this bagless Shark Rotator vacuum. Most bagged vacuums have a low profile and can easily get under furniture. You can also have a look at these bagged vacuums here- https://theprimereviews.blog/best-bagged-vacuum-cleaners/
Jessa says
Hi, are you able to turn the brush roll off on both vacuums? We have a shag area rug and am concerned about being able to vacuum it without the brush roll on.
Thanks!
Hi Jessa, yes the brushroll can be turned off on both vacuums. But you might have some difficulty in vacuuming shag carpeting due to the powerful one speed suction of the Shark Vacuum. You can also have a look at some of these shag carpet vacuums with variable power settings https://theprimereviews.blog/top-3-vacuums-long-pile-shag-carpet/
Traci says
I have both tile floor and high pile carpet. I borrowed my neighbor’s navigator lift away and loved it but found it a little hard on the steps. I’m pretty certain I want to buy either the navigator or the rotator. (I currently have a Kirby that needs repair/service but my kids -8 & 11- hate using it. They say it’s too hard to use and I find the attachments so hard to put on that I never use them.) I think I’m leaning toward the rotator but is that the best choice for the high pile carpet (not shag) and for ease of use for my children? Also, will the attachments on either be good for cleaning wood blinds?
Hi Traci, The tool attachments for the blinds would be the dusting brush, and are same for both the Rotator and the Navigator. The Lift away canisters are also similar for both vacuum models. The Rotator would be a better option for cleaning pet hair in the home. Good Luck on what ever you decide!
Laila says
I have a dog that goes crazy over the sound of vacuums. He thinks its some type of monster i must be protected from. I currently own an Oreck. I’m looking for something that is quiet, does well with pet hair, stairs, and wood floors. What the Shark Navigator work for me?
Generally average (not very loud) vacuums have noise/sound level ratings of 70 -75 db, shark vacuums included. Canister vacuums are generally quieter than upright vacuums. You can have a look at the Sanitaire SC889A Commercial Quiet Upright Vacuum, it has a 69 db rating and suitable for carpets and hardwood floors.
Alisa says
Dyson is amazing, I have never had the cnhcae to own one, but I’ve used my Mom’s and the job it does is fantastic. I also like that it is good for all floors. My current vaccuum is too heavy for my wood floors so I had to purchase a small vaccuum for my main floor. Seriously- two vaccums. How nice it would be to have one great one to do the job it currently takes two to do!
Mark says
I have tile thru my house with two small area rugs . There are 3 big dogs in my home . Do you have a recommendation on a couple vacuums I could look into . I have been using a Small Hoover Air Windtunnel that is great on solid floor but leaves me wanting something more on my rugs . In the past I have used dyson and a really nice royal but it was really only for carpet . Thank you .
Hi, you can have a look at the BISSELL PowerGlide Pet Vacuum 1305 which is good for hard floors, carpets and pet hair. The Shark Rotator 501 would also be a top choice.
Barbara Neubauer Zarn says
I need a rugged vac for my basement which is not finished and I would be vac’ing concrete floors. Which Shark do you recommend for this cleaning challenge? Shop vacs are out of the question as they just do not work and do not come in an upright and I am elderly and cannot handle the heavy weight of a shop vac or the bending over to use it. Thanks
Hi Barbara, the Oreck XL bagged vacuum would be the ideal vacuum for you, It is lightweight (8 Lbs) rugged, vacuums hardfloors and in the same price range as shark Vacuums. The only downside would be it is slightly louder than the Shark vacuums. It is marketed as a commercial vacuum but is used in many homes and users are quite happy with its performance. Good luck! Check it out here - http://amzn.to/1TzOucl
Gina says
Hello, I have hard wood, tile, and a couple low profile carpets and rugs, plus a long-haired shedding cat. I need the best vacuum to use on my floors and to vacuum pet hair on furniture. Which one- the Navigator or the Rotator- do you recommend? I’ve found I can get the Rotator for the same price as the Navigator.
Hi Gina, if not for pet hair the Shark Navigator model would have been your go to model. The Shark Rotator models deal much better with pet hair especially the Shark Rotator NV752 model. Good Luck!
Tara Nicole Sabo says
Hi there! We purchased the Shark Navigator NV352 through the Shark TV Commercial approximately 3 years ago. Unfortunately, my boyfriend didn’t register it and so therefore I now have to buy another vacuum now that this one has slowly broken down piece by piece. The cost of replacement parts that we would need easily sums up to the cost of buying a new vacuum all together. We were lucky and received the free carpet cleaner which we have used a hand full of times. I’m wondering what we should buy this time. My boyfriends is very hard on everything, we have dogs, and it would be primarily used in the house since we have a shop vac for the car. I have a small toddler who likes to assist mommy and I am disabled so I may need something on the lighter side. Also, grew up with canister vacuums so I would absolutely love something detachable. Could you please help me?
Hi Tara, the Shark vacuums in this post and perform well and good machines. but they are not lightweight. I can recommend you these 2 lightweight bagged upright vacuums where the Hoover model can even be used as a handheld canister vacuum. Suitable for pet hair and carpets You can check out these 2 models
Oreck Vacuum - http://amzn.to/1VWPpov
Hoover Vacuum - http://amzn.to/1Td4VKC
You can also check out this Panasonic canister vacuum - http://amzn.to/1Td4VKC
Kelley says
I’ve been looking at the Shark Navigator and Rotator models. I have bare floors at this point, most of the carpet removed (except two bedrooms) and will likely replace with vinyl planks. I have several cats and I do dog rescue so at times have several dogs. I also have plant shelves that I need to climb a ladder to dust so need to “take” the vacuum with me. I was looking at the lift-away models for that reason. What is the difference between the navigator models and the rotator models? Walmart has the Rotator NV522 on sale right now for $179. Your recommendation would be appreciated.
Hi, If you can get the NV522 at that price go for it. The Shark Rotator is the preferred choice for people who have pets and carpets. For bare floors and pets either the Navigator or the Rotator vacuum is suitable. Good Luck!
Sheila says
I am so confused with so many models of th Shark vacuum. I have hardwood floors and Berber carpet. My Dyson seemed to be very harsh on my Berber. Which style would you suggest for Berber/hardwood floors?
Thanks!
Jacqueline Brown says
Hi
I am in the market for a vacuum cleaner. Light weight with removable canister to do ceiling fans, etc. I have tile throughout the main living areas and bathrooms. Carpet on in the bedrooms. I currently do not have a pet, but am looking into getting one. Which vacuum would you recommend.
Thank you!
Hi Jacqueline, some of the Shark and Bissell upright vacuums come with the removable canister. But if you are looking for superior performance then Shark would be my 1st preference, though at a higher price point. Both the Navigator and the Rotator models from shark are excellent.
Germenn Savannah says
Hi,
I am buying my first vacuum and decided on Shark as a good entry level brand. Our primary need is pile carpet cleaning, no pets, not much foot traffic. The sheer number of models scares me. What model would you suggest?
Thank you!
Hi Germenn, I can recommemd the Shark NV356. A reliable vacuum that is also a multi surface vacuum with a lift away canister which can be ideal for vacuuming stairs.
Charlie says
I can’t handle anything heavy, but I need something that has a lot of suction power. I have cats and a daughter who uses a lot of baby powder. Oh the baby powder. I need something that gets around corners, but also fits in tight spaces and does the edges. What do you suggest?
Hi Charlie, if you are looking for a lightweight bagless vacuum with adequate suction power, I can suggest the following models.
* Shark Rocket - Models HV302 or HV382 - (These are lightweight vacuums but most of the weight is at the top!)
* Shark NV105
* Hoover Corded Cyclonic Stick Vacuum SH20030
Charlie says
Also, I need a bagless upright. No stairs here.
Irene says
Hi. I own a 10+ years Kenmore vacuum. It is very heavy and seems to spew dust out whenever I use its attachment tools, coming out from the outlet where you put the hose head back into the vacuum body. Vacuuming the stairs is a dreaded chore that requires some gymnast moves. The upholstery attachment does not work vey much so I have not been able to clean the couch. I am debating between the navigator and the rotator. Carpets throughout the house except for kitchen and dining room. Weekly vacuuming with one toddler and not much foot traffic and no pets. I have heard that the navigator tips over easily. Which vacuum would you recommend? Thank you.
Both the Rotator and Navigator have well sealed HEPA filtration systems that keep 99% of the dust out of the air. Because these are bagless you will still have to dump the canister and be exposed to dust to some degree. I think you would like the NV800w Rotator that is being sold on the Shark website. Splurge for the pet tools as I think the motorized brush will work nicely on your stairs and upholstery. You can detach the canister making it lightweight and attach the motorized brush right to the hose. It also has a second roller brush that is inside the main head. This is a new feature that the latest Shark Rotator 800 models have and is great for sucking up larger pieces of debris instead of snow plowing it.
kim says
HI,
I am needing to replace my hoover windtunnel, very old. I want a vacuum to deep clean my carpets, and I have pets, am confused on which type to get, navigator or rotator, like features of both, but need the deep cleaning, leaning to rotator, but have read it has stiff hoses, breaks easily, need a sturdy vacuum, and that will go under furniture, swivel, help? kim