Between the Shark UV540 vs NV356E Navigator Lift-Away upright vacuums, it is difficult to choose the better one. Both are Shark’s conventional upright vacuums and exhibit good household cleaning performance. Yet, I’m more on the side of the Shark UV540 than the NV356E model.
The Shark UV540 Navigator is more versatile owing to its longer cord length, about 35 feet, and LED headlights for cleaning debris more effectively, especially in dark areas. Though this vacuum cleaner is a bit heavier than the model NV356E, it is still easy to maneuver in general.
The Shark NV356E model, on the other hand, has a relatively larger dust tank than the UV540. This is an advantage for large-house cleaning as the dust bin can hold a larger amount of debris and particles without getting cleaned too frequently. If you have a large home, this Shark NV356E could be a suitable choice.
Shark UV540 vs NV356E: Comparison Chart
Shark UV540 vs NV356E: Differences
After considering between Shark UV540 vs NV356E performance, I decided that the Shark UV540 wins 1-0 against the NV356E in terms of utility. For the cleaning performance, my evaluation is that both machines do a great job of picking up pet hairs and debris.
Cleaning performance
Tie!
There is no notable difference in the cleaning performance of these two models, Shark UV540 vs NV356E. To me, their efficiency is incredible and really worth the money. Let’s go into a little detail on the factors contributing to their effective cleaning process.
Suction strength and control
Suction power is an imperative factor for an upright vacuum cleaner. For Shark UV540 and NV356E models, I noticed that they possess strong suction power. I tested cleaning my low-pile carpets with both vacuums and was amazed at the dust they picked up.
They also collected all the hairs of my golden retriever effectively. I used to have a cheaper vacuum, but it could not pick up all the hair, so I had to re-vacuum my carpet several times. So, a Shark UV540 or NV356E is a life and time saver for me.
Besides, these two Sharks vacuum models have a ring to adjust the suction strength if it is too high and lift up the carpet. By releasing the suction strength, I can move the vacuums easier on my carpet.
However, neither the Shark UV540 nor the NV356E has the option for adjusting the cleaning head height; therefore, it may be difficult to move them on high pile carpet.
Brush-roll shutoff feature
The brush roll is essential for cleaning the carpet, in addition to the strong suction power. On both Shark UV540 and NV356E models, I can turn on and off the brush roll with the 2 brush-roll settings for cleaning carpets and bare floors. By switching the button to the bare floor setting, I can shut off the brush roll immediately. Meanwhile, the carpet cleaning setting is to activate the brush roll spin.
However, the brush rolls on these models are not equipped with self-cleaning technology, so they have the hair-wrap issue. I have to clean their brush roll frequently to remove the dog hairs so that they can work well in the next use.
Floor type compatibility
As I mentioned, the Shark UV540 and NV356E can clean multiple surfaces, including the carpet or drugs and bare floors. I can also use them to clean the sofa and curtains by using their attachments like the Pet Power Brush or Crevice Tool. However, they are not compatible with wet surfaces, so do not use them to clean wet dust or liquid.
Utility
Winner: Shark UV540
In terms of utility and convenience, I gave my vote for the Shark UV540 because it has a longer cord and LED lights on the cleaning head.
Cord length
For Shark UV540 vs NV356E cord length, the UV540 has a 35-foot cord while the NV356E’s is 30 feet. This means that with a 5-foot longer cord, it is easier to move the UV540 around the house without having to unplug and replug it every few minutes.
LED headlights
LED headlights are useful for cleaning more effectively because they help to spot dirt and debris while vacuuming more easier, especially in dark corners and crevices. So, using the UV540 with LED headlights can help me perform a more thorough vacuuming process.
Shark UV540 vs NV356E: Similarities
For the Shark UV540 vs NV356E similarities, they are equipped with a high-efficacy fully-sealed HEPA filtration system, require the same cleaning & maintenance schedule, and offer the Lift-Away function.
Fully-sealed HEPA filtration system
Both Shark UV540 and NV356E are equipped with high-efficiency HEPA filtration and an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal system. This system helps trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner up to 99.9%. So, the air released from the vacuums is fresh, which is beneficial to allergy or asthma sufferers.
Cleaning & Maintenance
These two vacuum cleaners need proper cleaning and maintenance to function well. They have washable filter foams that need to be washed and air-dried every three months. It is also recommended to empty their dust bin after finishing every cleaning process to avoid over filled-up status.
Lift-away feature
The “Lift-Away” feature on the Shark UV540 and NV356E models allows me to detach the canister from the cleaning head. This function is brilliant as it makes cleaning above surfaces like stairs, ceiling cobwebs, or curtains much easier. So, this feature basically makes the Shark UV540 and NV356E a combination of a canister and an upright vacuum cleaner.
Quick Rundown of Shark UV540
- With the push of a button, lift-away technology allows you to lift the canister away and easily clean in hard-to-reach areas
- The air-driven pet brush removes stubborn pet hair from furniture and upholstery
- Features anti-allergen complete seal technology and a heap filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum
- Brush roll shutoff allows you to easily switch between carpet and bare floor cleaning
Quick Rundown of Shark NV356E
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: lift away the detachable pod and easily clean above-floor areas like stairs, furniture, and more
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Works with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9%* of dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner. (*Based on ASTM F1977 of particles .3 microns or larger.)
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Instantly switch from more maneuverability on deep carpets to gentle bare floor cleaning
- PERFECT FOR PET OWNERS: Picks up pet hair and loose debris. Powerfully deep-cleans dander out of upholstery and other surfaces
- SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more
Product Videos
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References:
- Shark UV540: https://support.sharkclean.com/hc/en-us/sections/4650315456796-UV540-Series
- Shark NV356E: https://support.sharkclean.com/hc/en-us/sections/360005920140-NV355-Series
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.