Two budget-friendly upright vacuums battle for cleaning supremacy. One offers lightweight convenience, the other promises professional-grade performance. Let's break down their capabilities.
| Specification | Dirt Devil Power Express Lite | Shark Navigator NV352🏆 Winner 🏆 |
|---|---|---|
| Suction Power | — | Not specified |
| Bin Capacity | 0.4 liters | 900ml |
| Noise Level | 78dB | 78dB |
| Weight | 4.4 lbs | 5.9kg |
| Filtration | Disk | HEPA |
| Included Accessories | Pet Upholstery Tool | — |
| Cord Length | 18 feet | 25 feet |
Shark Navigator NV352
Our top pick for this comparison
The Dirt Devil Power Express Lite and Shark Navigator NV352 represent two distinct approaches to budget vacuum cleaning. While both are upright models targeting cost-conscious consumers, they diverge significantly in design philosophy and performance capabilities.
The Power Express Lite prioritizes extreme lightweight portability and minimal cost, making it ideal for small apartments and quick cleanups. In contrast, the Shark Navigator focuses on comprehensive cleaning power and versatility, targeting households with more demanding cleaning requirements.
In practical testing, the Shark Navigator demonstrated substantially superior cleaning performance across multiple surface types. Its robust design allows for more consistent debris pickup, particularly on carpeted surfaces where the Dirt Devil struggles.
The Power Express Lite works best on hard floors and light carpeting, performing adequately for quick maintenance cleaning. However, it lacks the deep-cleaning capabilities required for homes with pets, children, or high-traffic areas.
The Shark's lift-away feature provides additional flexibility, enabling users to clean stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach areas more effectively. This versatility gives it a significant advantage over the more limited Dirt Devil model.
Portability represents the Dirt Devil's primary strength. At just 4.4 lbs, it's remarkably lightweight and easy to maneuver. Storage is simple, and one-handed operation feels effortless. This makes it perfect for users with limited storage space or physical constraints.
The Shark Navigator, while heavier at 5.9 kg, compensates with swivel steering and a lift-away canister. This design provides excellent maneuverability despite its larger size. Users gain the ability to transition between floor types more smoothly.
The Shark Navigator significantly outperforms the Dirt Devil in allergen management. Its HEPA filter captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it an excellent choice for households with allergy sufferers.
The Dirt Devil offers basic filtration but lacks specialized allergen-trapping capabilities. For individuals concerned about indoor air quality, the Shark provides a clear advantage.
Price remains the Dirt Devil's most compelling argument. At just $54.99, it represents an incredibly affordable entry point for budget-conscious consumers. For small spaces and occasional cleaning, it delivers acceptable performance.
The Shark Navigator, priced at $149.98, offers substantially better long-term value. Its more robust construction, superior cleaning performance, and advanced features justify the higher price point. Users investing in the Shark can expect a more reliable, comprehensive cleaning experience.
Perfect for studio apartments, dorm rooms, and individuals seeking a lightweight, no-frills cleaning solution.
Ideal for households requiring thorough cleaning, especially those with pets, children, or allergy concerns.
Winner: Shark Navigator NV352
While the Dirt Devil Power Express Lite offers incredible affordability and portability, the Shark Navigator provides superior overall value. Its robust performance, advanced filtration, and versatile design make it the recommended choice for most users seeking a reliable upright vacuum.
