Shark NV501 vs NV502: Which one wins? The NV502 is essentially the same machine as the NV501, but it has a few more advanced accessories. So, the winning ticket obviously belongs to the former.
Generally, they are excellent little vacuums that will give you much freedom regarding where and how you clean. If you are a budget-oriented guy, both will be your best bet!
Shark NV501 vs NV502: Comparison Chart
Shark NV501 vs NV502: Differences
The Shark NV502 wins 1-0 and ties twice against the NV501 just because it comes with a few more advanced accessories.
Design
Winner: tie
Both the Shark NV501 vs NV502 are 2-in-1 lift-away upright vacuums from the Shark Rotator line. They don’t have as many bells and whistles as newer Shark uprights like the Shark APEX, but they are great value for money.
Their 2-in-1 design means you can change their configuration for different uses. It is a breeze to detach their canisters from their bodies to use them in canister mode. So if the traditional upright configuration doesn’t make much sense, you can hold them in one hand and clean your house with their wands.
Better yet, Shark added a caddy with wheels. Hence, in essence, these upright machines convert to canisters, which is pretty neat. So whenever I need to use the wand without wanting to carry the canister around, I use the caddy to wheel the machine around behind me.
These machines also share a rotating head that enables you to maneuver around corners, under tables, and any other minor obstacle that may be present in your house. I found it easier to tip these vacuums accidentally when I didn’t set them upright when I was done using them.
Regarding build quality, the Shark NV501 vs NV502 are built using durable plastic material. They aren’t flimsy and will hold up well with regular use and even the occasional bump. So I’m keeping my fingers crossed that my machines will last!
In terms of aesthetics, color makes the biggest difference. The NV502 only comes in a rosy color, while, the NV501 is available in multiple colors, including purple, green, red, and blue.
Cleaning Performance
Winner: NV502
Shark NV501 vs NV502 work well on carpet and hard floors alike, so they would be ideal for those living in medium to large homes that have a combination of hard floors and carpets. They also feature the premium power brush, which allows them to easily handle any debris and pet hair your four-legged friends may leave behind.
However, the NV502 is packed with a car detail kit, making it ideal for professional car detailers or those aspiring to include car detailing as an aspect of their assistance.
Dimensions and Weight
Winner: tie
The NV501 measures 45.7 x 12.1 x 12.2 inches, and the dimensions of the NV502 are 45.7×12.2×13.4 inches. As you can see, the newer version is wider and deeper than its predecessor, but not significantly. I would say they are bulky, but they could fit in many tight areas in my house.
Regarding weight, both weigh about 15.5 lbs and are only slightly over 5 pounds when used in their canister configuration, thanks to the lift-away design. So I think they are easy to lug for most users.
To use these machines as a semi-handled vacuum, all you need to do is press the button to lift the canister from the main body. That way, you can clean the stairs, ceilings, and other hard-to-reach areas without carrying the entire machine.
Shark NV501 vs NV502: Similarities
HEPA Filter System
‘Both the Shark NV501 vs NV502 come equipped with a HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology to trap and keep dust and allergens inside their dust cups. So you can expect the only thing that comes out of these vacuums to be clean, breathable air.
On top of that, these filters are washable, which helps reduce your recurring costs. Of course, they will eventually require a replacement, but not too frequently. Depending on how often they are used, they can last 3 to 6 months.
Noise
Both the Shark NV501 vs NV502 have powerful suction but are amazingly quiet, though others can hear their noises when you use them in other rooms. So, of course, don’t expect them to be as quiet as a washing machine. They are just quiet enough that your loved ones can still listen to the TV or carry on a conversation while you are on duty.
Powerful Suction
These machines have impressive suction power that’s comparable to or even better than some more expensive models I’ve tested. The manufacturer has equipped them with “No Loss of Suction” technology. So no matter what type of surface you are vacuuming, they will maintain the same powerful suction strength.
Warranty
The Shark backs up these machines in terms of design and durability with a 5-year limited warranty. They don’t list obvious abuse, but I firmly believe its generous warranty will honor regular wear and tear.
Quick Rundown Of Shark NV502
- 2-motor system for superior pick-up power.
- Superior on pet hair.
- Permanent belt drive never needs replacement.
- Full complement of accessories for cleaning above the floor.
- Includes powered pet hair tool.
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.
Product Video
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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.