
With so many options to choose from, it’s hard to be sure which vacuum cleaner is the right one for your needs. One of the best options in 2020 is the Shark Navigator NV352. This is a versatile model with powerful features such as a lift-away design and swivel steering. With features like these, you’d expect the price tag to be high, but the NV352 is actually one of the most affordably priced vacuums on Amazon today.
There are a number of different things we look at when we review a vacuum cleaner, not least of which is the usability of the product. Price may be an important consideration, but it also has to be an effective cleaning tool. The Shark Navigator ticked most of our boxes as we’ll outline below in our full review and it also happens to be SpotlessMag’s best vacuum for allergies.
Broad Overview of the Shark Navigator NV352
We were hard-pressed to find many things we didn’t like about the NV352 as we reviewed its main features. This is a versatile cleaning machine that’s powerful enough to be your main vacuum cleaner.
The lift-away feature allows you to take your cleaning anywhere you need to and it’s highly effective as a tool for eliminating various allergens such as pet dander.
One key feature we really like is the suction release system on this model. With it you can control the amount of suction used by the machine – you can ramp up the suction on a thick carpet, or reduce it on area rugs and hardwood.

Designed for Ease of Use
Perhaps the simplest way to judge a vacuum is to look at how it compares to its peers in important categories. In every category, the NV352 outperforms similarly priced vacuums. This model has a fully sealed HEPA filter system, it has swivel steering for ease of use and the ability to lift the canister away from the body makes it easier to use on stairs or to clean curtains.
The other great advantage of the lift away feature is that it makes it easier to store the vacuum in a compact area. If you don’t have a lot of storage space this can be a big advantage and as an added bonus the process of lifting the canister from the stick body is straightforward.
Vacuuming can be hard work, especially if you have a big house. The last thing you want is a heavy piece of equipment that wears you out. The Shark Navigator NV352 weighs just 12.5 pounds making it one of the lightest upright corded vacuums we’ve reviewed. The only thing that may hold you back a bit is the cord length at 25 feet – there are models with better reach.
We should also mention that this vacuum features a bagless design. That means you don’t have to worry about running to the local store in the middle of a cleaning session because you’ve run out of bags. It’s just one more reason that this is one of the most user-friendly products in our reviews.
Performance Highlights of the NV352
Versatile Suction – In our 2020 reviews, we haven’t found many products that can match the NV352 for versatility. It has a powerful suction capability and that by itself is a great feature. What makes this product that much better is that Shark has included a suction release function so that the user can use it to decrease suction when it’s not needed or when it could cause damage to the surface you’re cleaning.
Best in Class Pet Hair and Dander cleaning– One of the biggest challenges for homeowners with pets is trying to keep the pet hair from piling up and removing the dander from the home. Many vacuum manufacturers claim to be effective at cleaning pet hair, but they don’t necessarily help with pet dander that can aggravate allergy symptoms. The Shark Navigator NV352 includes a HEPA filter system with sealing technology that captures the dander and keeps it locked inside.
Swivel Steering – In the average home there are many different obstacles that can make cleaning a challenge. With its swivel steering technology, this Shark vacuum allows you to easily navigate around furniture, appliances and anything else that may be in the way. It’s hard to believe that it’s also one of the most affordable corded upright vacuum cleaners on Amazon.
Powerful Motor – We’ve already looked at the versatile suction of this vacuum cleaner, but it’s also equipped with a powerful motor. At 1200 watts this machine is capable of cleaning just about everything you put in its path.
Shark’s NV352 is A Durable Vacuum
With the NV352 Shark has proven that you can have a product that’s both affordable and designed to last as well. Most of the vacuum is made from injection-molded plastic, but all parts fit together seamlessly. The company believes strongly in the quality of their product, backing it with a 5-year warranty.
Technical Specs
Product Name | Navigator NV352 |
Manufacturer | Shark |
Dimensions | 15 x 11.4 x 45.5 |
Weight | 12.5 pounds |
Dustbin Capacity | 1.1 quarts |
Warranty | 5-years |
Features | Swivel steering, suction release feature, 1200 watt motor, HEPA filter system with complete seal |
Our Review Verdict
The Shark Navigator NV352 is easily the best budget upright vacuum cleaner we’ve reviewed in 2020. Its versatility and range of features help it to easily stand out in a crowded marketplace. The lift-away functionality and suction release are highlights.
We also liked the sealed HEPA filter system that makes the NV352 stand out as a powerful tool in the battle against pet dander and allergies. If you’re searching for a quality vacuum that won’t cost hundreds of dollars, your search is over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the filter on the Shark Navigator can be removed and cleaned with a cloth. The filter will have to be replaced eventually – usually every 2 to 3 months is standard.
Shark has included a suction release mechanism on this vacuum that allows the user to control the level of suction used. This allows you to increase or decrease the suction to match the surface you’re cleaning.
Our review team actually chose this product as the best vacuum for allergies. Its HEPA filtration system, combined with its airtight seal helps to effectively reduce the number of allergens your family is exposed to.
The NV352 comes with an impressive 5-year warranty which is the longest warranty we’re aware of on an affordable vacuum cleaner.
Unfortunately, the Shark Navigator NV352 is not equipped with headlights to help see in dark areas.