8 Best Shark Navigator Vacuums (November 2026)
The best Shark Navigator upright vacuums include the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner for sealed allergen capture, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum for brushroll shutoff, and the Shark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed Self Cleaning for pet hair pickup.
On this page (5 sections)
The best Shark Navigator vacuum for most homes is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner, with a detachable pod, sealed HEPA filtration and tools for above-floor cleanup. If pet hair is your main concern, compare the self-cleaning brushroll models; if cordless convenience matters most, consider the Freestyle.
This roundup compares Navigator upright variants by their Lift-Away features, floor tools, brushrolls and filtration. Shark uses similar names across models, so check the model number and included tools to make sure you're comparing the version you want.
For a broader look at Shark's upright range, see our best Shark upright vacuum cleaner guide. If carpet is the main challenge, our best Shark vacuum for carpet picks focus on floor cleaning features.
Our picks at a glance
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1
Best for sealed allergen captureShark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for pet hair pickupShark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed Self Cleaning
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
- 4
Check itShark Navigator Swivel Pro Upright Vacuum
Best for long above-floor reach - 5
Check itShark Navigator Upright Vacuum
Best for self-cleaning with Lift-Away - 6
Check itShark ZU62 Navigator Zero-M Self-Cleaning Brushroll Pet
Best for fewer dust-cup stops - 7
Check itShark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle Upright Bagless Cordless
Best for cordless quick cleans - 8
Check itShark Navigator ADV Lift-Away Vacuum
Best for a lighter Lift-Away upright
How we chose the best Shark Navigator vacuum
The best Shark Navigator vacuum depends on how you clean above the floor and which surfaces need attention. We compared the stated pod designs, floor controls, brushroll features, filtration and included tools for each model.
Our score weighs specs and features against what shoppers typically want from a Navigator upright. It does not come from practical testing.
A detachable Lift-Away pod can help with stairs, furniture and other spots that are awkward to clean with the floor nozzle. Models without a detachable pod may still have an extendable hose for above-floor reach.
Floor controls also differ. The NV360 has brushroll shutoff, while the ZU561 uses a suction control slider; the Freestyle has a two-speed brushroll for carpet and hard floors.
Shark Navigator models compared
The strongest choices pair the features you need with useful tools for your home. Use this table to spot differences, then read the matching model section for context.
| Product | Best for | Model | Filtration | Lift-Away | Our score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner | sealed allergen capture | NV352 | HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal | Detachable pod | 9.7 |
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | brushroll shutoff | NV360 | 9.6 | ||
| Shark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed Self Cleaning | pet hair pickup | ZU561 | 9.4 | ||
| Shark Navigator Swivel Pro Upright Vacuum | long above-floor reach | NV151 | 8.8 | ||
| Shark Navigator Upright Vacuum | self-cleaning with Lift-Away | ZU503AMZ | HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal | 8.6 | |
| Shark ZU62 Navigator Zero-M Self-Cleaning Brushroll Pet | fewer dust-cup stops | ZU62 | 8.5 | ||
| Shark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle Upright Bagless Cordless | cordless quick cleans | SV1106 | 8.3 | ||
| Shark Navigator ADV Lift-Away Vacuum | a lighter Lift-Away upright | LA322 | 7.9 |
The best Shark Navigator vacuums by use
The NV352 is the most balanced starting point for a sealed HEPA system and above-floor cleaning. Other Navigator models fit specific needs, from self-cleaning brushrolls to cordless quick cleans.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner: Best for sealed allergen capture
- Detachable Lift-Away pod
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
- Pet Power Brush and upholstery tool
A versatile Navigator pick with a detachable pod and included tools for pet hair, furniture and narrow spaces. Its sealed HEPA system is aimed at trapping dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
Pros
- Detachable pod for above-floor cleaning
- HEPA filtration with sealed system
- Pet Power Brush included
Cons
- No self-cleaning brushroll listed for this model
- Confirm the exact model and included tools before buying
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a strong all-around choice if you want one upright for floors, stairs and furniture. Its detachable pod and included Pet Power Brush, upholstery tool and crevice tool cover a range of above-floor tasks.
The HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal are designed to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum. Shark describes the NV352 as a lightweight 2-in-1 upright with swivel steering for maneuvering around furniture.
This model does not list a self-cleaning brushroll. If reducing hair wrap is a priority, compare it with the ZU561 or ZU503AMZ, which do specify self-cleaning brushrolls.
Choose the NV352 if you want Lift-Away versatility, sealed filtration and pet-focused tools together. For more detail on the same model family, read our Shark Navigator Lift-Away reviews.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum: Best for brushroll shutoff
- Detachable Lift-Away pod
- Brushroll shutoff
- 0.9-liter dust cup
The NV360 pairs Lift-Away cleaning with a brushroll shutoff for switching between carpet and hard-floor modes. It includes upholstery and crevice tools.
Pros
- Brushroll shutoff for different floor surfaces
- Detachable pod
- HEPA filter and sealed system
Cons
- No self-cleaning brushroll listed
- Dust cup capacity is smaller than some Navigator options here
The NV360 stands out for its brushroll shutoff, which lets you switch from deep carpet cleaning to a hard-floor mode. It also has a detachable pod for cleaning stairs and furniture.
Shark includes an upholstery tool and crevice tool, and the vacuum uses a HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal. Its 0.9-liter dust cup is smaller than the stated capacities of some other picks here.
Pick the NV360 if you want direct control over the brushroll for different floor surfaces. Our Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe review has more on this Lift-Away style.
Shark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed Self Cleaning: Best for pet hair pickup
- Self-cleaning brushroll
- Detachable Lift-Away pod
- Suction control slider
The ZU561 combines a self-cleaning brushroll with a detachable pod and a suction control slider. Its included tools cover upholstery, hair removal and crevices.
Pros
- Self-cleaning brushroll
- Lift-Away pod
- Suction control slider
Cons
- Large upright form may not suit storage with limited space
- Check the included tool set for your cleaning needs
The ZU561 is the Navigator to consider if pet hair and brushroll wrap are high on your list. Its self-cleaning brushroll is designed for pet hair pickup, and the detachable pod adds flexibility for stairs and furniture.
A suction control slider lets you manage suction from hard floors to carpets. The included tools cover crevices, hair removal and upholstery, while the HEPA filter and sealed system trap dust and allergens inside.
Choose this model if you want a self-cleaning brushroll without giving up Lift-Away cleaning. For a newer feature set in Shark's upright range, see our Shark PowerDetect upright vacuum review.
Shark Navigator Swivel Pro Upright Vacuum: Best for long above-floor reach
- Up to 11 feet total reach
- Pet Power Brush
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal
The Swivel Pro offers an extendable hose with up to 11 feet of total reach for stairs and furniture. It includes a Pet Power Brush and upholstery tool.
Pros
- Long stated reach for above-floor areas
- Three useful cleaning tools included
- HEPA filter with sealed system
Cons
- No detachable pod listed
- Single power level
The Navigator Swivel Pro is built around above-floor reach without a detachable pod. Its extendable hose provides up to 11 feet of total reach for furniture, stairs and other raised areas.
It includes a Pet Power Brush, crevice tool and upholstery tool, plus a HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal. The model has a single power level, so it offers fewer floor-control options than the NV360 or ZU561.
Choose it if the hose reach and included pet tools match your cleaning routine. If carpet is your priority, see our best Shark vacuum for carpet guide for a floor-focused comparison.
Shark Navigator Upright Vacuum: Best for self-cleaning with Lift-Away
- Detachable pod
- Self-cleaning brushroll
- Pet Crevice Tool and upholstery tool
This teal Navigator combines Lift-Away cleaning and a self-cleaning brushroll. Its Pet Crevice Tool and upholstery tool address hair and debris in tight spaces and on fabric.
Pros
- Self-cleaning brushroll
- Detachable pod for above-floor cleaning
- Pet-focused tools included
Cons
- No brushroll shutoff listed
- Confirm the exact model and included tools before buying
The ZU503AMZ combines two features many Navigator shoppers seek: Lift-Away and a self-cleaning brushroll. Detach the pod for above-floor cleaning, then use the Pet Crevice Tool and upholstery tool on cushions, curtains and other fabric surfaces.
Its HEPA filter works with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal to trap dust and allergens inside. The model's listed tools are focused on furniture and tight spaces, while its brushroll is intended to help with pet hair pickup.
Pick this teal upright if you want the self-cleaning brushroll and a detachable pod in one model. Buyers looking for more options can compare our best Shark upright vacuum cleaner guide.
Shark ZU62 Navigator Zero-M Self-Cleaning Brushroll Pet: Best for fewer dust-cup stops
- Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll
- 3XL dust-cup capacity
- Up to 12 feet total reach
The ZU62 emphasizes long cleaning sessions with a 3XL dust cup and a Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll. An integrated extendable hose reaches stairs, furniture and tight spaces.
Pros
- Large stated dust-cup capacity
- Self-cleaning brushroll
- Up to 12 feet total reach
Cons
- Detachable Lift-Away pod not listed
- No separate accessory set specified
The ZU62 is designed for longer cleaning sessions, with a 3XL dust-cup capacity and a Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll. Its integrated extendable hose offers up to 12 feet of total reach for stairs, furniture and tight spaces.
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and a HEPA filter trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum. The product description does not specify a detachable Lift-Away pod, so choose this model for its stated capacity and hose reach rather than assuming it has the same pod setup as the NV352.
Pick the ZU62 if you want a large dust cup and self-cleaning brushroll in an upright. If allergies influence your choice, read our best Shark vacuum for allergies guide.
Shark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle Upright Bagless Cordless: Best for cordless quick cleans
- Cordless design
- Two-speed brushroll
- 7.5 lb weight
The Navigator Freestyle is a cordless upright with a two-speed brushroll for carpet and hard floors. Its compact dust cup and stated runtime suit shorter cleaning sessions.
Pros
- Cordless convenience
- Light 7.5 lb design
- Two-speed brushroll
Cons
- No Lift-Away pod listed
- Runtime is up to 25 minutes
The Navigator Freestyle suits short cordless cleaning sessions. It weighs 7.5 lb, has a two-speed brushroll for carpet and hard floors, and runs for up to 25 minutes.
Its 0.64-quart dust cup is smaller than those of the full-size upright options here. A precision charger doubles as a storage block and can charge the vacuum in four hours.
Choose the Freestyle for portability and quick cleans when a cord would get in the way. It does not list a Lift-Away pod or HEPA filtration, so compare those needs against the other models first.
Shark Navigator ADV Lift-Away Vacuum: Best for a lighter Lift-Away upright
- Detachable Lift-Away pod
- HEPA and foam filters
- Swivel steering
The LA322 combines a detachable pod with carpet and hard-floor cleaning, swivel steering and a 1.9-quart dust cup. Its stated weight is 12.3 lb.
Pros
- Detachable pod
- 12.3 lb stated weight
- Pet multi tool and crevice tool included
Cons
- No self-cleaning brushroll detail in the listed features
- Confirm floor-tool needs before choosing
The Navigator ADV LA322 combines a detachable Lift-Away pod with a 1.9-quart dust cup and swivel steering. It weighs 12.3 lb and includes a crevice tool and Pet Multi Tool.
Shark describes it as lighter than the NV351 and says it has more suction, measured at the hose. Its HEPA and foam filters work with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology.
Pick the LA322 if you want an updated Lift-Away style and a stated lower weight than the NV351 reference. Compare its specific included tools and floor features with the NV352 before choosing.
Which Shark Navigator features matter most?
The right Navigator comes down to how often you clean above the floor and what kind of floor controls you prefer. Start with those tasks, then compare filtration and the tools included.
Is a Shark Navigator Lift-Away vacuum right for your home?
A Shark Navigator Lift-Away vacuum makes sense if stairs, furniture or shelves are part of your regular cleaning. The detachable pod lets you carry the cleaning unit to those areas, while models with only an extendable hose keep the vacuum body on the floor.
The NV352, NV360, ZU561, ZU503AMZ and LA322 specify detachable pods. For a broader review of the Lift-Away family, read our Shark Navigator Lift-Away reviews.
Which floor tools help on carpet and hard floors?
Brushroll shutoff is a clear floor-control feature on the NV360, while the ZU561's suction slider lets you adjust suction from hard floors to carpets. The Freestyle uses a two-speed brushroll for both floor types.
If you have delicate or sealed hard floors, check the instructions for the exact model and floor type before cleaning. A model's general multi-surface description does not replace the care guidance for your flooring.
Do self-cleaning brushrolls matter for pet hair?
A self-cleaning brushroll is worth considering if you regularly pick up hair that can wrap around a brush. The ZU561, ZU503AMZ and ZU62 each specify a self-cleaning or Zero-M brushroll.
Also look at the included tools. A Pet Power Brush or upholstery tool can help with furniture and stairs, while a crevice tool reaches narrow gaps.
How should you compare HEPA filtration claims?
Several picks combine a HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. The NV352, NV360, ZU561, Swivel Pro, ZU503AMZ and ZU62 specify this pairing.
Compare the wording for the exact model you are considering, and follow its filter care instructions. For allergy-focused choices, our best Shark vacuum for allergies guide discusses the features to weigh.
Final choice: which Shark Navigator should you pick?
Choose the NV352 for a balanced Lift-Away setup with sealed HEPA filtration and pet tools. Pick the NV360 for brushroll shutoff, the ZU561 or ZU503AMZ for self-cleaning brushrolls with a pod, and the Freestyle for cordless short cleans.
If you want to compare across Shark's wider upright range, start with our best Shark upright vacuum cleaner guide.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
-
1
Best for sealed allergen capture
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner
9.7/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
2
-
3
Best for pet hair pickup
Shark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed Self Cleaning
9.4/10 our score
See it on Amazon
Frequently asked questions
Which Shark Navigator vacuum is best for most homes?
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a flexible starting point because it has a detachable pod, sealed HEPA filtration, and tools for stairs, furniture and crevices.
Choose the NV360 instead if brushroll shutoff matters more, or the ZU561 if you want a self-cleaning brushroll.
Do all Shark Navigator vacuums have Lift-Away?
No. Several models here have a detachable pod, including the NV352, NV360, ZU561, ZU503AMZ and LA322.
The Navigator Swivel Pro and ZU62 describe above-floor reach through an extendable hose, while the Freestyle is a cordless upright.
Compare the specific model features before choosing.
Which Shark Navigator is best for pet hair?
For hair that can wrap around a brushroll, consider the ZU561 or ZU503AMZ, both of which have a self-cleaning brushroll. The ZU62 also has a Zero-M self-cleaning brushroll and a large stated dust-cup capacity.
For furniture and stairs, compare the included pet tools as well.
What is the difference between a Lift-Away pod and an extendable hose?
A Lift-Away design detaches a pod so you can carry vacuuming power to stairs, furniture and other above-floor areas. An extendable hose lets you reach those areas while the main vacuum stays on the floor.
Some models offer one approach, so check the model details and included tools.
Which Shark Navigator works for both carpet and hard floors?
Several models are described for multiple floor types. The NV360 adds brushroll shutoff for switching from carpet cleaning to a hard-floor mode, while the ZU561 has a suction control slider.
Check each model's floor controls and your flooring before deciding.
