Finding the best Shark upright vacuum can dramatically change your cleaning routine, especially when dealing with everyday dust, stubborn dirt, or persistent pet hair. Shark has built a strong reputation for producing powerful, versatile, and user-friendly vacuum cleaners that cater to a variety of household needs. From innovative lift-away designs to advanced self-cleaning brushrolls, these vacuums are engineered to deliver a deep clean across all floor types. We’ve taken a close look at the top contenders to help you navigate the options and choose the perfect Shark upright vacuum that truly makes a difference in your home.
Quick Product Comparison
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Our Top 5 Best Shark Upright Vacuum Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering for Pet Hair
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a fantastic all-around choice for busy households, especially those with pets. Its unique Lift-Away functionality makes it incredibly versatile, allowing you to easily tackle both floor cleaning and above-floor tasks. This model also boasts a robust Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology paired with a HEPA filter, ensuring that dust and allergens are effectively captured.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for easy above-floor cleaning.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Offers excellent maneuverability around furniture.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Seamless transition from deep carpet to bare floors.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Shark Navigator for its unparalleled versatility and effective allergen filtration. It’s a powerhouse for homes with pets or allergy sufferers, making light work of fur and fine dust. The ability to switch between an upright and a portable canister vacuum is a game-changer for comprehensive cleaning.
Best For
This vacuum is best for pet owners, allergy sufferers, and homes with a mix of carpeted and hard floor surfaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional pet hair pickup on various surfaces.
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal effectively trap allergens.
- Lift-Away feature provides excellent versatility for cleaning stairs and upholstery.
- Smooth swivel steering enhances maneuverability.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavy for some users in upright mode.
- Power cord length might require frequent outlet changes in larger homes.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
2. Shark Vertex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with DuoClean PowerFins, Self-Cleaning Brushroll for Pets
The Shark Vertex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum represents Shark’s commitment to cutting-edge cleaning technology. It’s engineered with powerful suction and innovative features like DuoClean PowerFins and a self-cleaning brushroll, making it exceptionally effective against pet hair and embedded dirt. This model truly elevates the cleaning experience for those seeking top-tier performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Powerful Suction: Delivers incredible cleaning performance.
- ✓ DuoClean PowerFins: Combines a soft roller and PowerFins for deep carpet and hard floor cleaning.
- ✓ Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Actively prevents hair wrap, ideal for pet owners.
- ✓ Powered Lift-Away: Offers motorized brushrolls even in canister mode for versatile cleaning.
Why We Recommend It
As our Editor’s Choice, the Shark Vertex is a premium selection for its advanced features that tackle common vacuuming frustrations. The DuoClean PowerFins system ensures comprehensive cleaning across different surfaces, and the self-cleaning brushroll is a blessing for homes with long hair or pets, virtually eliminating annoying hair tangles.
Best For
This upright vacuum is ideal for homes with multiple floor types, especially those with heavy pet shedding and a need for powerful, hassle-free cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Superior suction power for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors.
- Self-cleaning brushroll eliminates hair wrap, a major convenience.
- DuoClean PowerFins provide continuous contact, enhancing pickup.
- Powered Lift-Away maintains brushroll power during above-floor cleaning.
Cons:
- Can be heavier and bulkier than some other models.
- Higher price point due to advanced features.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is with out a doubt the most powerful vacuum I have ever used or owned. My last vacuum was a Shark Navigator lift away,which I still have, works great. there was nothing wrong with the vacuum, I just wanted a new one. The power detect however blows it out of the water! I used the Navigator two “
Customer Review: “Oh my goodness! This vacuum is amazing!! This guy picks up everything I couldn’t even see and that my Bissell Power Force Helix Turbo couldn’t get! I already vacuumed with it then used this Shark Stratos. The bin was full and I only vacuumed my walk in closet!! What the heck?! I routinely clean my o”
3. Shark Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Anti-Allergen for All Floors
For those seeking powerful cleaning without breaking the bank, the Shark Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is an excellent budget-friendly choice. It maintains Shark’s signature Lift-Away versatility and superior Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter, offering a comprehensive clean across various surfaces. This model proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune for effective vacuuming.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Easily converts into a portable canister for versatile cleaning.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA Filter: Traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Lightweight Design: Easier to maneuver and carry compared to bulkier models.
- ✓ Excellent Suction Power: Delivers strong pickup on both carpets and hard floors.
Why We Recommend It
We’ve chosen this Shark Navigator as our Best Budget option because it provides outstanding value without compromising on essential cleaning features. It’s incredibly effective at capturing allergens and pet dander, and its lightweight design makes it less strenuous to use, making cleaning less of a chore.
Best For
This Shark upright vacuum is perfect for budget-conscious buyers, smaller homes, or anyone needing a lightweight yet powerful vacuum for all floor types.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable price point for a feature-rich Shark vacuum.
- Effective allergen filtration with HEPA filter and sealed system.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, reducing user fatigue.
- Strong suction power tackles dirt and debris efficiently.
Cons:
- Lacks some of the advanced brushroll technologies of newer models.
- May not have as many specialized attachments as premium versions.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
4. Shark Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with No Hair Wrap and HEPA Filter for Pet Hair
The Shark Rotator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with No Hair Wrap is specifically designed to combat the notorious problem of tangled hair on brushrolls. Featuring DuoClean PowerFins Technology and a self-cleaning brushroll, it offers superior hair pickup without the hassle of maintenance. Coupled with its Lift-Away feature and HEPA filtration, this vacuum is a powerhouse for pet owners and those with long hair.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ DuoClean PowerFins Technology: Dual brushrolls for continuous contact on all floors.
- ✓ Self-Cleaning Brushroll: Engineered for no hair wrap, even with heavy pet hair.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detachable pod for portable cleaning power.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA Filter: Captures 99.9% of dust and allergens.
Why We Recommend It
If hair wrap is your biggest vacuuming headache, this Shark Rotator is your solution. The self-cleaning brushroll truly works, making it a stress-free choice for homes with pets or family members with long hair. Its strong suction and versatile design ensure a thorough clean everywhere.
Best For
This vacuum is best for pet owners and individuals who frequently deal with long hair and desire a powerful upright vacuum with minimal maintenance.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Effectively prevents hair from wrapping around the brushroll.
- DuoClean PowerFins deliver excellent cleaning on both carpets and hard floors.
- Lift-Away feature adds flexibility for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
- Strong suction for thorough pet hair and debris removal.
Cons:
- Can be a bit heavy and less nimble than stick vacuums.
- Dust cup capacity might be smaller than some larger uprights, requiring more frequent emptying.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “We have our house professionally cleaned, so I wasn’t expecting that when I tried this on our carpets that it would pull anything up. Holy smokes – there was a lot of lint and dust that this vacuum picks up that gets left behind with other vacuums. Very easy to push and feels sturdy. We’ve had other”
Customer Review: “Powerful yet light. It’s all about hair and It’s all about the double brush. I “sold” the Kirby vacs as a teenager waiting to get in the military. We were trained on various vacuums and I was in a lot of homes showing people how junk their other vacuums were. Never sold one because even though they”
5. Shark POWERDETECT Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, DuoClean for Pets
The Shark POWERDETECT Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum pushes the boundaries of smart cleaning with its innovative DuoClean Detect technology. Equipped with Intelli-Sense sensors, this vacuum automatically adjusts suction and brushroll speed based on the detected dirt and debris, ensuring an optimized clean every time. It’s a truly intelligent cleaning solution for homes needing maximum power and efficiency.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ POWERDETECT Technology: Automatically senses dirt and boosts power for deeper cleaning.
- ✓ DuoClean Detect: Two brushrolls with intelligent sensors for optimal performance on all floors.
- ✓ Powered Lift-Away: Converts to a portable canister with motorized brushrolls.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA Filter: Traps allergens and dust within the vacuum.
- ✓ Bright LED Headlights: Illuminates hidden debris for a thorough clean.
Why We Recommend It
For those who want the absolute peak of cleaning intelligence, the Shark POWERDETECT is an exceptional choice. Its ability to detect hidden dirt and automatically adjust power means you get the best possible clean with minimal effort. This vacuum truly takes the guesswork out of effective home maintenance.
Best For
This Shark upright vacuum is ideal for tech-savvy users, large homes, and those who demand the most powerful and intelligent cleaning performance for varied messes, especially pet-related ones.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Intelligent POWERDETECT system provides optimized cleaning automatically.
- Most powerful suction offered by Shark for exceptional deep cleaning.
- DuoClean Detect excels at picking up all types of debris on any surface.
- Powered Lift-Away adds incredible versatility for comprehensive cleaning.
Cons:
- Premium pricing compared to other Shark models.
- Can be heavier due to its robust motor and advanced features.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is with out a doubt the most powerful vacuum I have ever used or owned. My last vacuum was a Shark Navigator lift away,which I still have, works great. there was nothing wrong with the vacuum, I just wanted a new one. The power detect however blows it out of the water! I used the Navigator two “
Customer Review: “Oh my goodness! This vacuum is amazing!! This guy picks up everything I couldn’t even see and that my Bissell Power Force Helix Turbo couldn’t get! I already vacuumed with it then used this Shark Stratos. The bin was full and I only vacuumed my walk in closet!! What the heck?! I routinely clean my o”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Shark Upright Vacuum
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best Shark upright vacuum, there are several key factors that we believe are crucial for making the right decision. First, consider your floor types. Do you have mostly carpets, hard floors, or a mix? Features like DuoClean brushrolls are fantastic for mixed homes, while powerful suction is key for deep carpets. Second, think about pet ownership. If you have furry friends, look for vacuums with specialized pet tools, self-cleaning brushrolls, and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter to manage dander and odors effectively. Third, assess the vacuum’s versatility. Shark’s Lift-Away feature is a huge plus, allowing you to clean above floors and in tight spaces with ease. Lastly, don’t overlook weight and maneuverability. Swivel steering and lighter designs can make a big difference in reducing fatigue during longer cleaning sessions.
Budget Planning
Shark offers a range of upright vacuums at various price points, so there’s likely a model that fits your budget without compromising too much on performance. Generally, models like the Navigator series provide excellent value and essential features for a more affordable price. If your budget allows, investing in a Vertex or POWERDETECT model will give you advanced features like self-cleaning brushrolls, more powerful suction, and intelligent sensing technology. Determine what features are “must-haves” versus “nice-to-haves” to balance cost and functionality. Remember, a slightly higher initial investment can often lead to a more efficient and satisfying cleaning experience in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Selecting the ideal Shark upright vacuum is all about matching the vacuum’s capabilities with your household’s unique needs. Whether you prioritize deep cleaning for pet hair, superior allergen filtration, or maximum versatility, Shark has an upright model designed to excel. By focusing on brushroll technology, suction power, filtration, and portability, you can confidently choose a vacuum that will make your cleaning tasks quicker, easier, and more effective. A truly great vacuum isn’t just about suction; it’s about seamlessly integrating into your home and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Shark Lift-Away feature?
A: The Shark Lift-Away feature allows you to detach the canister from the upright base with the push of a button. This transforms the vacuum into a portable canister vacuum, making it much easier to clean stairs, upholstery, ceilings, and other above-floor areas without having to carry the entire upright unit.
Q: Do Shark upright vacuums work well on pet hair?
A: Yes, many Shark upright vacuums are specifically designed with pet owners in mind. Models featuring DuoClean PowerFins, self-cleaning brushrolls, and specialized pet tools excel at picking up embedded pet hair from carpets and hard floors, while their Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with HEPA filters helps trap pet dander.
Q: What is DuoClean technology?
A: DuoClean technology combines two distinct brushrolls in one nozzle: a soft front brushroll for direct engagement with hard floors and pulling in larger debris, and a bristled brushroll to deep clean carpets. This combination allows for seamless cleaning across different floor types without needing to switch nozzles.
Q: How often should I clean or replace the filters in my Shark upright vacuum?
A: It’s generally recommended to rinse your pre-motor foam and felt filters every month and replace them every 6-12 months, depending on usage. The post-motor HEPA filter, if your model has one, typically needs to be cleaned once a year or replaced every 2-3 years. Always refer to your vacuum’s specific manual for precise maintenance instructions.
Q: Are Shark upright vacuums heavy or difficult to maneuver?
A: While upright vacuums are generally heavier than stick vacuums, Shark designs many of its upright models with features like swivel steering and the Lift-Away option to enhance maneuverability. Some models are also lighter in overall weight. The Lift-Away feature significantly reduces the weight you handle when cleaning above-floor areas.
Choosing the best Shark upright vacuum is an investment in a cleaner, healthier home. With options ranging from powerful pet hair eliminators to intelligent cleaning systems, there’s a Shark vacuum perfectly suited for every household. We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you narrow down your choices and feel confident in selecting the ideal upright vacuum for your cleaning needs. Ready to upgrade your cleaning game? Click on the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to explore the models and find your perfect match today!
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I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
