After comparing the Shark NV501 vs NV500, I gave the winning ticket to the first one.
The Shark 501 is a refreshed version of the Shark 500. Hence, it is obvious that some of the technologies work better in the improved model, although they’re the same. Moreover, the Shark NV500 is an older model, so its parts could become a bit more difficult to replace.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. So let’s get into the details!
Shark NV501 vs NV500: Comparison Chart
Shark NV501 vs NV500: Differences
The Shark NV501 beat the NV500 with a score of 2-1. The former is lighter and ideal for cleaning pet hair thanks to its premium power brush.
Dimensions and Weight
Winner: Shark NV501
Both of the vacuums are very maneuverable, although there are slight differences in dimensions and weight. The dimensions of the NV500 are 11.75 x 15.24 x 33.50 inches. and it weighs around 21.1 lbs. Meanwhile, the NV501 measures 45.7x 12.1 x 12.2 inches, and its weight is about 15.5 lbs. If you’re looking for something lightweight, the NV501 is the one to get.
Both machines come with a lift-away design that allows for convenient vacuuming. This feature is ideal for cleaning stairs and ceilings because you don’t have to lug the entire vacuum around your house. All you need to do is press the button to lift the canister and then clean all tight and awkward areas with ease.
Cleaning Performance
Winner: Shark NV500
As mentioned above, the NV501 model is a 2-in-1 vacuum cleaner, while the Shark NV500 is a 3-in-1. The second can be used as a discarded vacuum, canister vacuum, or upright vacuum. Meanwhile, the NV501 doesn’t have the canister feature implemented.
Although you probably don’t need to use the canister function too often since the upright mode already does a good job at cleaning, it is better than nothing. So the fact that the manufacturer removed this nice-to-have feature in the NV501 makes me a bit confused.
The NV501 even has a little less suction power. One thing that this machine has over its predecessor is that it reaches more angles, meaning that it will take fewer passes to clean an area.
Both of these machines feature a rotating neck, making it easy to vacuum tight spaces, and they both deliver powerful suction that is more than enough to deep clean any carpet.
Included Attachments And Tools
Attachments and tools are other important things that should be taken into account. It’s also one of the factors where these two machines differ the most.
| Shark NV500 | Shark NV501 |
| A power brush A multi-tool, An 18” crevice tool A canister caddy A straight suction nozzle. | A 5” dusting brush A 12” crevice tool A multi-angle brush A large turbo brush A straight suction nozzle. |
Generally, these machines share a set of tools but come in different sizes. Which one you should get will depend on what your cleaning needs are. The premium power brush of the Shark NV501 is ideal for pet owners, making it the winner here.
Shark NV501 vs NV500: Similarities
Power Cord length
The cord length is an aspect that should be considered, especially for those who have to clean large areas on a daily basis. Both machines share a 30-foot cord length, which is a pretty common length for a standard upright vacuum. To be frank, this length will work fine for most users.
Dust Cup Capacity And Filters
Both the Shark NV501 vs NV360 have HEPA filters, which will remove up to 99.9% of the dust and allergens that can be found in the air, making them ideal for those who have allergies.
Better yet, these filters can be washed, which will reduce your recurring costs since you don’t need to replace them. Mother Nature will also be grateful to you for using these washable filters.
Those machines have somewhat large dust cups, which are approximately the same (around 1.3 quarts). So you can expect not to constantly empty your vacuum during the cleaning process. And to keep these dust cups safe from overfilling, it is essential to follow the basic maintenance steps (which can be found in your owner’s manual).
Maintenance
Maintenance is required to keep your machine operating at the desired level and to prevent serious damage. I won’t dig into details here, and I highly recommend consulting the owner’s manual to learn all the details, but here is a quick rundown of maintaining these upright vacuums.
- Regularly empty and rinse their dust containers.
- Regularly inspect their nozzles or any other attachments for any stuck dirt and debris.
- Clean the cover of the brush, nozzle, and other tools at least once a week.
- Replace any damaged parts as fast as possible.
- Regularly clean the washable filter.
Quick Rundown Of Shark NV501
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for cleaning under furniture or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
- ADVANCED SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum to get in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more.
- LED HEADLIGHTS: Powerful lights on the nozzle reveal hidden debris and pet hair around your home.
- WIDE UPHOLSTERY TOOL: The wide cleaning path helps remove pet hair, dust, and large debris from mattresses, couches, curtains, lampshades, and other delicate upholstered surfaces.
Quick Rundown Of Shark NV500
Product Video
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References:
- Shark NV501: https://www.sharkclean.ca/products/shark-rotator-professional-lift-away-upright-vacuum-zidNV501
Victor K. Giles is a leading consultant and expert in vacuum cleaner technology with over a decade of experience. As a mechanical engineering graduate in the University of Michigan, he specializes in product development, design optimization, and performance analysis. Victor collaborates with manufacturers and educates consumers, making her a sought-after guest speaker at industry events. His work has been featured in renowned publications, and he shares his expertise on his blog, “The Vacuum Teria”. Victor’s passion for cleaner, healthier living spaces drives his to help clients choose the best vacuum solutions for their needs.