Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Review
The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away combines power and versatility, featuring Lift-Away tech for easy above-floor cleaning, strong suction, and HEPA filtration.
check best priceSummary / TL;DR
The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away is an upright vacuum that combines power, versatility, and convenience, thanks to its Lift-Away technology which allows easy cleaning of both floors and above-floor areas. It features strong suction, advanced swivel steering, and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. However, its weight of 15.5 pounds might be cumbersome for some users. The vacuum includes multiple attachments, such as a pet power brush and a crevice tool, enhancing its versatility.
Despite its robust construction and user-friendly design, some users find it bulky compared to stick vacuums. The vacuum excels in suction power across various surfaces, though it lacks specialized pet tools. Maintenance is straightforward, with easy-to-clean filters and a dust cup, though regular upkeep is necessary for optimal performance.
In comparison to competitors like the Dyson V11 and Bissell ICONpet, the Shark NV501 offers a more budget-friendly option with solid performance. Overall, it is a reliable choice for those seeking a versatile vacuum, although its weight and price might require consideration for those seeking a lightweight or budget option.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Shark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed or Shark ZU503AMZ Navigator Lift-Away or Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe.
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Introduction
The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away is making waves in the world of cleaning gadgets. If you're in the market for an upright vacuum that promises a mix of power, versatility, and convenience, this one might catch your eye. With its Lift-Away technology, this vacuum offers the flexibility to tackle both floors and above-floor areas with ease. But is it all it's cracked up to be?
This vacuum boasts a reputation for strong suction and a user-friendly design. It's designed to handle a variety of surfaces, from plush carpets to hard floors. However, some users have noted that it can be a bit on the heavier side, which might not be ideal for everyone. Despite this, the vacuum's maneuverability and ability to convert into a portable canister unit make it a favorite among many households.
One of the standout features of the Shark NV501 is its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combined with a HEPA filter, which traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum. This is particularly beneficial for households with allergy sufferers or pets. The vacuum's versatility and cleaning performance make it a strong contender in the upright vacuum category, but let's dig deeper to see how it holds up in various aspects.
Key Features
When you're on the hunt for a reliable upright vacuum cleaner, it's the key features that often seal the deal. The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away is loaded with practical features that make cleaning less of a chore.
Lift-Away Functionality
This vacuum's Lift-Away technology is a game-changer. It allows you to detach the canister with a simple press of a button, transforming the vacuum into a portable unit. This is perfect for reaching those tricky spots like stairs and under furniture without lugging the whole vacuum.
Advanced Swivel Steering
The advanced swivel steering offers smooth maneuverability around furniture and tight corners. This feature makes it easier to navigate your home, reducing the time you spend cleaning.
Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
If you're concerned about allergens, this vacuum's Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology works in tandem with a HEPA filter to trap 99.97% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum. This is particularly useful for households with allergy sufferers.
LED Headlights
LED headlights on the vacuum head are more than just a flashy feature. They illuminate hidden debris under furniture or in dimly lit areas, ensuring you don’t miss a spot.
Multiple Attachments
The Shark NV501 comes with a variety of attachments that enhance its versatility. These include a dusting brush, a crevice tool, and a wide upholstery tool, catering to different cleaning needs.
Quieter Operation
While it's not whisper-quiet, this model is designed to operate at a lower noise level compared to some of its competitors. This can be a relief for those who prefer a quieter cleaning experience.
However, it's worth noting that the vacuum can feel a bit bulky when used in upright mode, which might not be ideal for everyone. But the trade-off is a powerful cleaning performance that many users find beneficial.

Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality of the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away are both sleek and functional, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable cleaning companion. This vacuum features a modern design with a combination of red and white hues, giving it a visually appealing look that fits in with most home decor.
Its construction feels robust, thanks to the high-quality plastics used, ensuring that it can withstand daily wear and tear. The vacuum is designed with user convenience in mind, featuring an ergonomic handle that makes it comfortable to hold during extended cleaning sessions. The lift-away feature adds to its versatility, allowing you to detach the canister for more portable cleaning tasks, like stairs or above-floor areas.
However, the overall weight of the unit might be a bit on the heavier side for some users, especially when compared to other stick vacuums in the market. It weighs approximately 15.5 pounds, which may not be ideal for those seeking a super lightweight option. Despite this, the vacuum's swivel steering makes it relatively easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces.
Overall, the design and build of this vacuum reflect a balance between durability and user-friendly features, though its weight might be a consideration for some. If you’re looking for a vacuum that combines style with substance, this one’s definitely worth a look.

Performance and Suction Power
The performance and suction power of the Shark NV501 Rotator Lift-Away is notable. This vacuum cleaner is equipped with a robust motor that ensures reliable suction, making it suitable for various surfaces like carpets, hardwood floors, and tiles.
One of the impressive features is the cyclonic technology that helps maintain suction power even as the dustbin fills up. This technology efficiently pulls in dirt and debris, ensuring your surfaces are clean. However, it's more about keeping dust away from filters rather than maintaining suction power as the bin fills.
Regarding pet hair, while the Shark NV501 is effective for general household messes, it doesn't specifically come with specialized pet tools as standard. It can handle pet hair well but might not be the best for large debris like cereal or small pebbles.
Additionally, the vacuum features a HEPA filtration system, which traps allergens and dust, ensuring cleaner air in your home. This is beneficial for those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Overall, the Shark NV501 offers strong suction power and versatility, although it's not entirely flawless. A small downside is that it can be a bit noisy, which might be a concern if you prefer a quieter cleaning experience.
What's in the Box
When you unbox the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away, you’re greeted with a neat array of components that make it ready to tackle your cleaning needs right out of the gate. Here's what you'll find inside:
- Lift-Away Vacuum Unit: This is the heart of the vacuum, featuring the main motor and dust collection system.
- Pet Power Brush: A handy tool for those stubborn pet hairs that seem to cling to every surface.
- Dusting Brush: Perfect for those delicate surfaces that need a gentle touch.
- Crevice Tool: Ideal for reaching into those narrow and awkward spaces that often get overlooked.
- Upholstery Tool: Great for refreshing your furniture and getting rid of dust and debris.
- Canister Caddy: Allows you to convert the vacuum into a portable unit, making it easier to clean large areas.
- Owner's Manual: Provides detailed instructions on assembly and operation, though some might find it a bit overwhelming at first glance.
Each component feels well-made, and the accessories snap into place with ease, ensuring you can switch between tasks without a hitch. However, the number of accessories can be a bit much for those who prefer a more minimalist setup. But hey, better to have options, right?

Ease of Use and Maneuverability
The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away is designed with user convenience in mind, but how easy is it to use day-to-day? Let's break it down. Ease of Use is a big deal when it comes to upright vacuums, and this model doesn't disappoint.
Its Lift-Away feature is a game-changer for cleaning stairs and hard-to-reach areas. Just detach the canister, and you're good to go. This makes transitioning from floor to above-floor cleaning super smooth.
The vacuum's swivel steering is another highlight. It allows for seamless navigation around furniture and tight corners without breaking a sweat. You might find yourself zig-zagging through the room with ease. However, the vacuum can feel a bit hefty, especially if you're using it for extended periods.
Maneuverability is aided by its design, although it's not the lightest on the market. It weighs in at around 15.5 pounds, which is manageable but might be a tad cumbersome for some users. If you have a multi-level home, carrying it up and down stairs could be a minor workout. The controls are conveniently located on the handle, making it easy to switch between different modes. However, some users mentioned that the power button placement could be better.
It's easy to accidentally switch it off while vacuuming, which can be a bit annoying. Overall, the Shark NV501 delivers a decent balance of usability and maneuverability, making it a solid choice for those who want a versatile vacuum without too much fuss. Just be ready for a bit of a workout if you're using it for extended cleaning sessions!
Maintenance and Filtration
Maintaining your Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away vacuum is often a concern, but with its design, maintenance is surprisingly straightforward. The vacuum is equipped with user-friendly features that make keeping it in top shape relatively easy.
Maintenance
First off, the dust cup is easy to empty. You pull up on the dust cup release latches and lift it off the pod, then hold it over a trash bin and press the empty-release latch on the bottom. However, be mindful that the cup isn't massive, so if you're dealing with a large area, you might need to empty it more frequently. The brush roll is another key area to maintain. It’s accessible and can be removed quickly, which is a plus for removing hair and tangled debris. Just keep in mind, if you have pets, you'll likely be doing this regularly.
Filtration System
The Shark NV501 features a HEPA filter, which is excellent for trapping allergens and dust particles. This is a big win for allergy sufferers. The HEPA filter should be cleaned once a year, while the foam filters should be cleaned every three months. Both types of filters are washable with water only, and they must be thoroughly dried before being replaced to prevent damage.
Filter Replacement
While the filters are designed to last, they will eventually need replacement. Replacement intervals depend on how often you use the vacuum, but generally, once a year is a good rule of thumb for the HEPA filter. Just remember, keeping those filters clean and up to date is vital for maintaining optimal suction and air quality.
Overall Maintenance Ease
In terms of maintenance, the Shark NV501 does a commendable job of making things simple for users. From easy-to-access parts to washable filters, it’s designed to keep your workload light while ensuring the vacuum runs smoothly.

Competitor Comparison
In the world of upright vacuum cleaners, the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away faces stiff competition. Let's take a closer look at how it stacks up against some popular models.
Dyson V11 Torque Drive
The Dyson V11 Torque Drive is often considered a top-tier stick vacuum. It boasts a high level of suction power and a sleek design. However, it comes with a hefty price tag. While the Shark NV501 offers a more budget-friendly option, it doesn't quite match the Dyson's advanced features like the LCD screen that displays remaining runtime and performance updates.
Bissell ICONpet Cordless
Another competitor is the Bissell ICONpet Cordless, which is specifically designed for pet owners. It excels in hair pick-up and has a tangle-free brush roll. On the other hand, the Shark NV501 provides a more versatile cleaning experience with its lift-away feature, allowing you to clean above-floor areas with ease.
Hoover Linx Signature Stick
The Hoover Linx Signature Stick is known for its simplicity and straightforward design. It's lightweight and easy to use, making it a great choice for quick clean-ups. However, it lacks the advanced filtration system found in the Shark NV501, which uses a HEPA filter to trap allergens and dust particles effectively.
Comparison Table
Feature | Shark NV501 | Dyson V11 | Bissell ICONpet | Hoover Linx |
---|---|---|---|---|
Suction Power | Strong | Very Strong | Strong | Moderate |
Price | Moderate | High | Moderate | Low |
Filtration | HEPA | Advanced | Standard | Standard |
Pet Hair | Good | Excellent | Excellent | Good |
In conclusion, while the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away may not have all the bells and whistles of some high-end models, it provides a balanced package with solid performance and versatility at a reasonable price. It's a strong contender for those who want a reliable vacuum without breaking the bank.
Conclusion
Wrapping up our review, the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away is more than just your average vacuum cleaner. With its versatile design and powerful suction, it tackles a range of cleaning tasks with ease. It's perfect for anyone looking to maintain a clean home without breaking a sweat. The lift-away feature is a game-changer, allowing you to clean those tricky spots that are often neglected. However, it's not all positives. Some users might find it a bit bulky, especially when compared to more compact stick vacuums. And while the HEPA filtration system is impressive, regular maintenance is necessary to keep it functioning at its best.
In terms of price, this vacuum sits in the mid-range category. It offers a solid performance that justifies the cost, but budget-conscious shoppers might want to weigh their options. If you're after a reliable vacuum with a few extra features, the NV501 could be a fantastic fit. It's ideal for those who value both performance and convenience in their cleaning arsenal. But if you're seeking something more lightweight or budget-friendly, you might want to explore other options. Overall, the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away delivers on most fronts, making it a strong contender in the world of home cleaning solutions.
FAQ
- Can I use the Shark NV501 on both carpets and hard floors?
Yes, the Shark NV501 is suitable for both carpeted areas and hard surfaces. However, it lacks carpet height adjustment, so you may need to adjust your cleaning technique accordingly. - Is the Shark NV501 suitable for pet hair?
Yes, the Shark NV501 is effective at picking up pet hair. Its strong suction power and specialized attachments make it a good choice for pet owners. However, some users have mentioned that the brush roll may need frequent cleaning to avoid tangling. - How heavy is this vacuum?
The Shark NV501 weighs around 15.5 pounds. While it’s not the lightest vacuum, its Lift-Away feature helps reduce the weight when cleaning stairs or other tricky spots. - Does it come with a HEPA filter?
Yes, it includes a HEPA filter which is great for trapping allergens and dust particles. Regular maintenance is important to keep the filter working effectively, so remember to clean or replace it as needed. - How long is the power cord?
The power cord is about 30 feet long, providing a good reach for most cleaning tasks. - Is assembly required?
Some assembly is needed, but it's generally straightforward. Most users find it easy to put together without any special tools. - What is the warranty on this vacuum?
The Shark NV501 comes with a 5-year limited warranty. This covers repairs or replacements for any defects in materials or workmanship, giving you some peace of mind.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Lift-Away technology for versatility
- Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
- Advanced swivel steering
- LED headlights for better visibility
- Multiple attachments included
Cons
- Heavier than some competitors
- Can be noisy during operation
- Frequent brush roll maintenance needed
- Power button placement could be better
Technical specifications
Product Name | Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away |
---|---|
Type | 2-in-1 Upright Vacuum Cleaner |
Color | White with Metallic Red Trim |
Dimensions | 45.7 x 13.4 x 12.2 inches |
Weight | Approximately 15.5 pounds |
Power Source | Corded Electric |
Wattage | 1200 Watts |
Cord Length | 30 feet |
Dust Cup Capacity | 0.88 quarts |
Filtration System | HEPA Filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology |
Lift-Away Feature | Yes, allows for portable cleaning |
Swivel Steering | Yes, for excellent control when maneuvering around furniture |
LED Headlights | Yes, for illuminating dark areas |
Brushroll | Motorized brushroll for deep carpet cleaning |
Attachments | 12-in. crevice tool, dusting brush, wide upholstery tool |
Noise Level | Moderate |
Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Additional Features | Advanced cyclonic technology is not explicitly mentioned; however, it features fingertip controls and a suction release ring |