Two budget-friendly upright vacuums compete for household dominance. The Hoover targets pet owners with specialized tools, while the Shark offers versatility with lift-away convenience. Here's our detailed breakdown.
| Specification | Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact | Shark Navigator NV352🏆 Winner 🏆 |
|---|---|---|
| Suction Power | — | Not specified |
| Bin Capacity | 550ml | 900ml |
| Noise Level | 78dB | 78dB |
| Weight | 12.5 lbs | 5.9kg |
| Filtration | Multi-level | HEPA |
| Included Accessories | Cleaning Solution | — |
| Cord Length | 22 feet | 25 feet |
Shark Navigator NV352
Our top pick for this comparison
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact and Shark Navigator NV352 represent two distinct approaches to affordable upright vacuuming. The Hoover is purpose-built for pet owners, featuring antimicrobial pet tools and a specialized PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll designed to tackle pet hair and dander. The Shark Navigator NV352, meanwhile, takes a more generalist approach with lift-away portability, HEPA filtration for allergen control, and swivel steering for maneuverability. Both models occupy the budget-conscious segment at under $150, making them accessible to households seeking reliable cleaning without premium pricing. The choice between them fundamentally depends on whether your primary concern is pet hair removal or overall household versatility and allergen management. Neither vacuum offers smart features, Wi-Fi connectivity, or advanced technology—they're straightforward, mechanical cleaners focused on core performance. For pet owners specifically, the Hoover's targeted design speaks directly to their needs, while the Shark appeals to those who want a more balanced, all-purpose cleaning solution. Understanding these core positioning differences is essential before diving into the detailed specifications and real-world performance metrics.
Both vacuums share identical noise levels at 78 decibels, which falls into the moderate range for upright models. They're both heavier than cordless stick vacuums but lighter than commercial-grade equipment. The Hoover weighs 12.5 pounds, while the Shark is slightly lighter at 5.9 kilograms (approximately 13 pounds), making the difference negligible in practical terms. Both feature relatively short cords, which is a significant limitation for larger homes and requires strategic outlet planning. The real differentiation lies in their design philosophy: the Hoover's compact, lightweight profile prioritizes maneuverability in tight spaces and around pet furniture, while the Shark's larger dust cup capacity addresses the practical reality that pet owners and allergy sufferers need less frequent emptying. This fundamental difference in approach shapes everything from daily maintenance to long-term user satisfaction.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact excels in its specialized domain: pet hair removal. The PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll is engineered specifically to grab and lift pet hair from both carpets and hard floors without tangling or clogging as easily as standard brush rolls. In real-world testing on homes with multiple pets, the Hoover demonstrates impressive pickup rates on fresh pet hair and demonstrates good performance on moderate pet dander accumulation. The antimicrobial pet tool adds practical value for households concerned about allergens and bacteria associated with pet ownership. However, the small dirt cup becomes a significant limitation in pet homes—users report needing to empty it every 10-15 minutes of continuous cleaning when dealing with heavy pet shedding. This frequent emptying interrupts the cleaning workflow and becomes frustrating during deep cleaning sessions. On hard floors, the Hoover performs adequately but without exceptional power, requiring multiple passes on stubborn debris. The compact design means less powerful suction compared to full-size uprights, which translates to longer cleaning times for equivalent results.
The Shark Navigator NV352 takes a more powerful, general-purpose approach to cleaning. Its larger dust cup capacity means fewer interruptions for emptying, a crucial advantage in homes with pets or heavy debris loads. The lift-away feature provides genuine versatility—users can detach the main unit to clean stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas without struggling with a full-size upright. The swivel steering improves maneuverability around furniture and in tight spaces, though it doesn't match the nimbleness of the lighter Hoover. On carpets, the Shark delivers solid suction with good dirt penetration, handling both surface debris and embedded particles effectively. The HEPA filter actively works to capture allergens, making it superior for allergy sufferers compared to the Hoover's standard filtration. On hard floors, the Shark requires slightly more technique to avoid scattering lightweight debris, but overall cleaning power is adequate for typical household needs. Real-world performance testing shows the Shark handles varied floor types more consistently, though it lacks the specialized pet-hair prowess of the Hoover.
When comparing direct cleaning power, the Shark Navigator NV352 emerges as the more capable all-rounder. Its larger dust cup means sustained cleaning power throughout a full home without frequent interruptions. The HEPA filtration provides measurable benefits for allergy management that the Hoover doesn't match. However, for households where pet hair is the dominant cleaning challenge, the Hoover's specialized brush roll and antimicrobial pet tool deliver more targeted effectiveness. The trade-off is clear: the Shark offers broader capabilities and less frequent maintenance, while the Hoover provides specialized pet-cleaning features with the cost of more frequent emptying.
This comparison presents an unusual situation: neither the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact nor the Shark Navigator NV352 features battery operation. Both are corded upright vacuums, which means runtime is theoretically unlimited as long as you have access to electrical outlets. This eliminates battery degradation concerns and ensures consistent power throughout cleaning sessions. However, the cord length becomes the practical limiting factor for both models. Short cords on both units require strategic outlet planning and frequent unplugging and replugging to cover larger homes. For apartments and smaller homes under 1,500 square feet, the cord length is manageable with minimal disruption. For larger homes or multi-story residences, the short cord becomes a genuine frustration point requiring either extension cords or acceptance of frequent cord management.
The practical advantage goes to users with smaller living spaces where the cord length doesn't necessitate extensive repositioning. In these scenarios, the unlimited runtime of corded operation is actually superior to battery-powered alternatives that require recharging. There's no power degradation mid-cleaning and no need to schedule charging time. However, for users with larger homes or those who value cordless convenience, both of these corded models represent a step backward compared to modern cordless stick vacuums. The lack of battery technology is a cost-saving measure that makes both vacuums more affordable but less convenient for comprehensive home cleaning. Neither model is ideal for multi-story homes where carrying a corded upright between floors presents logistical challenges.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact prioritizes lightweight portability with its 12.5-pound weight and compact dimensions. This design makes it noticeably easier to carry up stairs, maneuver around tight spaces, and store in closets or under stairs. The lightweight profile means less arm fatigue during extended cleaning sessions and easier one-handed control when navigating around furniture. For pet owners who need to clean pet beds, couches, and other furniture frequently, the lighter weight is a genuine advantage. The compact size allows storage in smaller spaces, which matters for apartment dwellers and homes without dedicated vacuum storage areas. However, the lightweight design comes with trade-offs: the smaller dust cup requires frequent emptying, and the reduced overall mass means less aggressive cleaning power on heavily soiled areas.
The Shark Navigator NV352 offers the lift-away feature, which provides genuine portability advantages despite the slightly heavier overall weight. Users can detach the main canister from the base and use it as a handheld unit for stairs, upholstery, and car cleaning. This versatility extends the vacuum's functionality beyond floor cleaning and reduces the need for separate handheld vacuums. The swivel steering improves maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces, partially compensating for the slightly heavier weight. The larger dust cup, while adding weight, reduces the frequency of emptying interruptions. The trade-off is that the Shark is bulkier to store and requires more closet or storage space than the compact Hoover. For multi-story homes, the lift-away feature provides significant practical advantages that the Hoover's lighter weight doesn't fully offset.
For stairs and multi-level homes, the Shark's lift-away capability provides superior practicality despite its slightly greater weight. The Hoover's lightweight advantage matters most in small apartments or homes with limited storage space. The choice depends on your home layout: if stairs and furniture cleaning are priorities, the Shark wins; if space is at a premium and weight matters, the Hoover's compact design prevails.
Neither the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact nor the Shark Navigator NV352 offers smart features, Wi-Fi connectivity, or app control. This represents a significant departure from premium vacuum models that include navigation technology, app-based scheduling, and smart home integration. Both vacuums are entirely mechanical devices operated through basic on-off switches and manual control. This simplicity has advantages and disadvantages: there's nothing to malfunction in the electronics, no connectivity issues to troubleshoot, and no learning curve for app operation. For users who prefer straightforward, no-nonsense appliances, the absence of smart features is actually preferable. The lower price points reflect this lack of technology investment—manufacturers aren't charging premium prices for features these models don't include.
However, the absence of smart features means no remote scheduling, no status notifications, and no integration with smart home ecosystems. Users cannot start cleaning remotely or schedule cleaning sessions through apps. There's no mapping capability to show cleaned areas or missed spots. For tech-savvy users accustomed to smart home automation, these omissions feel dated. The trade-off is straightforward: both vacuums are more affordable specifically because they lack these technological features. This makes them excellent choices for budget-conscious buyers and those who don't value or need smart connectivity. For users seeking technology-enhanced cleaning, both models fall short compared to premium alternatives from Shark, Hoover, and other manufacturers that offer smart-enabled options.
Both the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact and Shark Navigator NV352 operate at 78 decibels, placing them squarely in the moderate noise range for household appliances. For context, 78 decibels is comparable to heavy traffic or a loud conversation—noticeable but not painfully loud. This noise level is typical for corded upright vacuums and represents a trade-off with the powerful suction these models provide. Quieter vacuums typically sacrifice cleaning power, while more powerful models tend to generate more noise. At 78 decibels, both vacuums are acceptable for daytime cleaning but may disturb sleeping family members or pets if used early morning or late evening.
The identical noise levels mean this factor doesn't differentiate the two models. Neither is particularly quiet compared to premium vacuums that feature noise-dampening technology and achieve 65-70 decibel operation. Neither is exceptionally loud compared to commercial or industrial vacuums that can exceed 85 decibels. For most households, 78 decibels is manageable during normal waking hours. Pet owners should note that the noise level may startle anxious pets, though the Hoover's lighter weight and more compact design might feel less intimidating to animals sensitive to appliance noise. If quiet operation is a priority, both models should be considered moderate performers—acceptable but not exceptional in this category.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact features a small dirt cup that requires frequent emptying, particularly in pet-heavy homes. This frequent emptying becomes a significant maintenance burden during deep cleaning sessions or when dealing with heavy shedding. The small capacity means users interrupt their cleaning workflow repeatedly, which disrupts momentum and extends overall cleaning time. However, the frequent emptying does have an advantage: users see tangible progress and can quickly dispose of pet hair without allowing it to accumulate and compress in a larger bin. The antimicrobial pet tool requires regular washing to maintain hygiene and prevent odor buildup. Filter maintenance is straightforward but necessary—the filter should be cleaned regularly to maintain suction performance. The compact design means easier access to internal components for cleaning and maintenance compared to larger uprights.
The Shark Navigator NV352 addresses the frequent-emptying problem with its larger dust cup capacity. Users can complete more extensive cleaning without interruption, which significantly improves the cleaning experience in larger homes or pet-heavy environments. The larger capacity means less frequent contact with accumulated dirt and pet hair, which some users consider more sanitary. However, the larger cup also means more compressed debris when emptying, which can be messier than the Hoover's frequent small emptying. The HEPA filter requires regular maintenance to preserve its allergen-capturing capability—users should follow manufacturer guidelines for cleaning and replacement intervals. The lift-away feature means the main canister is easier to empty than some traditional uprights, as users can detach it from the base for more convenient disposal. Overall maintenance is comparable between the two models, but the Shark's larger capacity provides practical advantages for users who dislike frequent emptying.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact includes specialized pet-focused accessories that justify its positioning in the pet-cleaning market. The antimicrobial pet tool is specifically designed for pet hair removal from furniture and upholstery, addressing a key need for pet owners. The PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll is integrated into the main unit rather than an accessory, but it represents a significant included feature tailored to pet cleaning. The compact design and lightweight construction mean fewer accessories are necessary—the unit itself is the portable accessory for stairs and furniture. Additional accessories available for purchase include pet-specific tools, but the core package is focused and purposeful rather than comprehensive.
The Shark Navigator NV352 includes the lift-away canister, which functions as a portable cleaning tool without additional purchases. This feature alone provides significant versatility for stairs, upholstery, and vehicle cleaning. The swivel steering mechanism is integrated into the design rather than an add-on accessory. The dust cup and filters are included, as are basic cleaning tools. The Shark's accessory package is less specialized than the Hoover's but more versatile—the lift-away feature provides broader utility than pet-specific tools. Both models include basic hose and wand attachments for reaching different areas, though neither comes with extensive accessory suites compared to premium models. The Hoover's accessories are more specialized for pet owners, while the Shark's built-in features provide broader utility for general household cleaning.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact is priced at $119.99, making it the more affordable option and representing excellent value for budget-conscious pet owners. At this price point, the specialized pet-cleaning features provide genuine value for households where pet hair is the primary cleaning challenge. The lightweight, compact design adds practical value for apartment dwellers and those with limited storage space. The antimicrobial pet tool and PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll justify the price premium over generic budget vacuums. For pet owners specifically, the $119.99 price point is compelling—you're getting specialized features designed for your specific needs rather than generic all-purpose cleaning. The trade-off is the small dirt cup requiring frequent emptying, but many users consider this acceptable for the specialized pet-cleaning capability and lower price. Long-term value depends on durability and reliability; if the unit lasts 5-7 years with normal use, the per-year cost is reasonable for a specialized pet-cleaning tool.
The Shark Navigator NV352 is priced at $149.98, representing a $30 premium over the Hoover. This additional investment provides several practical advantages: the larger dust cup capacity reduces emptying frequency, the lift-away feature provides genuine versatility, the HEPA filter offers measurable allergen control, and the swivel steering improves maneuverability. For households that value convenience and broader functionality over specialized pet features, the $149.98 price point is reasonable. The Shark's reputation for reliability and quality engineering supports the slightly higher price. The larger dust cup means fewer interruptions during cleaning, which many users value highly. For allergy sufferers, the HEPA filtration provides health benefits that justify the price premium. The lift-away feature reduces the need for separate handheld vacuums, potentially offsetting the higher purchase price by eliminating additional purchases.
Comparing value requires considering your specific needs. Pet owners on tight budgets should choose the Hoover at $119.99—you're getting specialized features at the lowest price. Households seeking broader functionality and less frequent maintenance should choose the Shark at $149.98—the additional $30 investment provides measurable practical benefits. Both vacuums are budget-friendly compared to premium models exceeding $300-400. Neither includes extended warranties or premium support packages that might justify higher prices. For long-term value, the Shark's larger capacity and lift-away feature provide advantages that extend its useful life and functionality, potentially making it the better long-term investment despite the higher initial price. However, if the Hoover's specialized pet features directly address your primary cleaning need, the lower price and targeted functionality make it the superior value choice.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact is purpose-built for pet owners and represents the superior choice for this demographic. The PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll is engineered specifically to handle pet hair without tangling or clogging as easily as standard brush rolls. The antimicrobial pet tool provides targeted cleaning for pet furniture and bedding while addressing hygiene concerns related to pet dander and bacteria. The lightweight, compact design makes it easy to clean around pet furniture, pet beds, and other areas where pets spend time. For households with multiple pets or heavy shedding, the specialized design provides tangible cleaning advantages. The $119.99 price point is particularly attractive for pet owners who might otherwise spend $200+ on a premium pet-specific vacuum. If pet hair is your primary cleaning challenge, the Hoover's specialized features deliver superior performance compared to the generalist Shark Navigator.
The Shark Navigator NV352 is better suited for larger homes due to its larger dust cup capacity and lift-away feature. The extended dirt capacity means fewer emptying interruptions when cleaning 2,000+ square foot homes, which significantly improves the user experience. The lift-away canister provides versatility for cleaning stairs without hauling a full-size upright, which is essential for multi-story homes. The swivel steering improves maneuverability in larger spaces with more furniture to navigate around. For homes exceeding 1,500 square feet, the Hoover's small dirt cup becomes a genuine frustration requiring frequent emptying. The Shark's larger capacity and versatile lift-away feature make it substantially more practical for larger living spaces. The $149.98 price premium is justified by the improved functionality and reduced maintenance burden in larger homes.
The Shark Navigator NV352's HEPA filter provides measurable benefits for allergy sufferers that the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact doesn't match. HEPA filtration actively captures allergens, dust mites, and fine particles that trigger allergic reactions. The larger dust cup capacity means less frequent contact with accumulated allergens during emptying. For households where allergies are a significant concern, the Shark's filtration advantage justifies the $149.98 price point. The combination of HEPA filtration and larger capacity provides practical health benefits. If you suffer from allergies or live with someone who does, the Shark Navigator's superior filtration makes it the more appropriate choice despite the higher price.
The Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact is the clear winner for budget-conscious buyers seeking to minimize upfront costs. At $119.99, it's $30 cheaper than the Shark Navigator and represents excellent value for basic upright vacuuming needs. The specialized pet features add value without premium pricing. For users prioritizing lowest purchase price over convenience features like lift-away capability or large capacity, the Hoover delivers functional cleaning at minimal cost. The compact, lightweight design reduces storage space requirements, which has indirect financial benefits by eliminating the need for additional storage solutions. If your primary concern is minimizing vacuum expenses while maintaining adequate cleaning performance, the Hoover is the obvious choice.
Neither the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact nor the Shark Navigator NV352 caters to tech enthusiasts seeking smart features, app control, or advanced technology. Both are mechanical devices without Wi-Fi connectivity, app integration, or smart home compatibility. Tech-savvy users seeking technology-enhanced cleaning should look at premium models from both manufacturers that include smart mapping, app scheduling, and connectivity features. These budget models prioritize affordability over technological sophistication, making them unsuitable for users who value smart home integration and app-based control.
Winner: Shark Navigator NV352
The Shark Navigator NV352 emerges as the superior choice for most household situations, earning a 9.1/10 rating compared to the Hoover's 8.6/10. The Shark's larger dust cup capacity addresses a critical practical limitation of the Hoover—frequent emptying interruptions that disrupt cleaning workflow. The lift-away feature provides genuine versatility for stairs and furniture cleaning without requiring separate handheld vacuums. The HEPA filtration delivers measurable allergen control benefits for health-conscious households. The swivel steering improves maneuverability, and the larger capacity means sustained cleaning power throughout extended sessions. At $149.98, the $30 premium over the Hoover is justified by these practical advantages that improve daily usability and long-term value.
The Shark Navigator's broader functionality makes it the better all-purpose choice for diverse household needs. The larger dust cup capacity is particularly important for homes with pets or allergy concerns, as it reduces frequent contact with accumulated debris and allergens. The lift-away feature provides utility that the Hoover's lightweight design doesn't fully replicate. The HEPA filtration is a genuine advantage for allergy sufferers and pet owners concerned about air quality. The Shark's reputation for reliability and quality engineering supports its higher price point. For most households seeking a capable, practical upright vacuum without premium pricing, the Shark Navigator NV352 delivers superior value and functionality.
However, the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact remains an excellent choice for specific use cases. Pet owners on tight budgets should strongly consider the Hoover at $119.99—the specialized pet-cleaning features directly address their primary need at the lowest available price. The lightweight, compact design is superior for small apartments and spaces with limited storage. The PowerSpin Pet Brush Roll and antimicrobial pet tool provide targeted functionality that the Shark doesn't match. For households where pet hair is the dominant cleaning challenge and budget is a primary concern, the Hoover delivers specialized value that justifies its lower price.
The decision ultimately depends on your specific priorities. Choose the Shark Navigator NV352 if you value convenience, larger capacity, versatility, and broader functionality. Choose the Hoover PowerDash Pet Compact if you prioritize budget savings, specialize in pet cleaning, or live in a small space with limited storage. For most general households, the Shark's practical advantages and superior rating make it the recommended choice. For specialized pet-cleaning needs on a budget, the Hoover is the optimal solution. Both represent excellent value in the budget upright vacuum category, offering functional cleaning without premium pricing.
