After testing the Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352, I concluded that they are both good and easy-to-maneuver vacuums with amazing suction, so there is no winner in this comparison. It’s a tie!
The Shark ZU503AMZ takes the spotlight for its self-cleaning brush roll, which helps me spend less time clipping the hair wrapping around the roller. However, its brush roll cannot be turned off completely but runs slowly instead.
The Shark NV352, on the other hand, has the traditional brush roll type, so the hair wrap issue is unavoidable. But it can stop the brush roll motion in the Bare Floor setting to avoid damaging delicate surfaces when using the hose. It is also lighter than the Shark NV352; thus, maneuvering it will put less pressure on your hand and wrist.
Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352: Comparison Chart
Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352: Differences
Between the Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352, the differences are not considerable. The noticeable distinction lies in their brush roll and the weight. In particular, the brush roll on the ZU503AMZ is better, while the NV352 is lighter. Thus, I decided that it is a tie in this comparison.
Cleaning performance
Winner: Shark ZU503AMZ
Suction strength and control
The suction between the Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352 is comparable. In other words, they all have good suction power that I sometimes could not push over my rug areas. It can be ascribed to the similar specifications of their motors. Both of the vacuums are driven by 1200-watt and 10-amp motors to ensure strong suction for the machine.
Besides, Shark ZU503AMZ and NV352 have Suction release collars, which allow you to reduce the suction for delicate cleaning. These Shark models do not have adjustable nozzle height, so the strong suction could make the vacuum hard to push over the thick-fiber carpet; thus, reducing the suction can help make it easier to maneuver on carpeted surfaces.
Brushroll system
The brush roll is the most noticeable difference between Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352. Specifically, the brush roll of the Shark ZU503AMZ has a self-cleaning feature, which I think is especially useful for pet owners. This self-cleaning brush roll can reduce the amount of hair wrapping on the roller, offering lower maintenance compared to the traditional brush roll like the one on Shark NV352.
On the other hand, the brush roll on the Shark ZU503AMZ cannot be completely shut off, while the Shark NV352 allows you to do so. On many Shark models, when switching the power button to the Bare Floor setting, it is able to stop the brush roll spinning, supporting the suction performance by limiting debris scattering and preventing delicate surfaces from being damaged, especially when using the hose.
The brush roll of Shark ZU503AMZ, in fact, runs slowly at the Bare Floor setting. The slower spinning speed can actually help reduce the scattering of debris, though it cannot be as effective as when the brush roll is completely off. Yet, I am still afraid that the spinning brush roller could chew up my carpet fibers when I am using the hose.
Floor-type compatibility
They can work well on both carpeted and bare/hard floors. As I mentioned, they can be difficult to move on carpets with thick fibers owing to the strong suction, but releasing the suction with the Suction release collar can help.
With that plenty of suction, either Shark ZU503AMZ or Shark NV352 can handle all types of debris from fine to large and pet hair. Though they have a little struggle when picking up the larger debris like fruit loops, their quick-releasing wands can support cleaning up all of this stuff.
Design & Convenience
Winner: Shark NV352
Maneuverability
- Weight
The Shark NV352 is relatively lighter than the Shark ZU503AMZ, which you can see in the comparison chart. The Shark ZU503AMZ is nearly 15 pounds, while the NV352 is just 12.5 pounds. The lighter vacuum will support the ease of control and put less pressure on your arm and wrist.
- Lift-away functionality
The canister of Shark ZU503AMZ and NV352 can be lifted off and carried around or upstairs. As the position of the canister and dirt cup makes these vacuums difficult to move under furniture, the lift-away functionality and detachable hose wand can really help you to reach those areas.
- Swivel steering
Like most of the Shark models, the ZU503AMZ and NV352 have great swivel heads. With that smooth swivel joint, I can easily steer the vacuum around my sofas, couches, and tables. So, this is another useful feature that I really like on these two ZU503AMZ and NV352.
Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352: Similarities
The significant similarity between the Shark ZU503AMZ vs NV352 is their dust cup and filtration system. I see that they have the same dirt cup capacity (~1.1 dry quarts) with a similar design. Additionally, like other models of Shark upright vacuums, these two Navigator models have the same HEPA filtration and advanced allergen seal.
I really appreciate the allergen-seal HEPA filtration because the air emits from the vacuum is free of dust. I could say that the Shark has done well on their filtration system, which actually helps my stuffy nose. So, these Shark vacuums can be appropriate options for allergy sufferers.
Quick Rundown of Shark NV352
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: lift away the detachable pod and easily clean above-floor areas like stairs, furniture, and more.
- ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
- POWERFUL & LIGHTWEIGHT : Powerful suction to deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors with a lightweight design for effortless portability.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Feature allows you to instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floor cleaning.
- SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more.
Quick Rundown of Shark ZU503AMZ
- SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL: Engineered for more pet hair pickup with no hair wrap (vs. Shark bristle nozzles)..Voltage:120 volts. Wattage : 1200 watts
- 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.
- PERFECT FOR PETS: The Pet Crevice Tool removes pet hair from hard-to-reach spaces like corners, ceilings, and between couch cushions.
- SWIVEL STEERING: Easily maneuver your vacuum to get in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more.
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References:
- Shark ZU503AMZ: https://support.sharkclean.com/hc/en-us/sections/4403094166418-ZU503AMZ-Series
- Shark NV352 (in NV350 series): https://support.sharkclean.com/hc/en-us/sections/360005917460-NV350-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.