Shark HV301 Review – Ultra-Light Corded Stick Vacuum

Keeping your home clean can be challenging, especially if you want a vacuum that’s lightweight, versatile, and powerful enough to handle both carpets and hard floors. The Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum promises all of that and more. In this detailed review, we’ll explore its features, performance, pros, cons, and what real users have to say.

Key Specifications

Feature	Details
Model	Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light
Type	Corded Stick Vacuum
Weight	7.6 lbs
Power Source	Corded Electric (120V)
Filter Type	HEPA
Included Accessories	Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, Upholstery Tool
Surface Recommendation	Carpet, Hard Floors, Above Floor
Special Features	Swivel Steering, Fingertip Controls, Handheld Convertible
Warranty	5-Year Limited

Design and Build Quality

The Shark HV301 is ultra-lightweight, weighing just under 8 lbs, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and carry between rooms or floors. Its slimline design allows for easy storage, while the corded power source ensures unlimited runtime—no need to worry about battery life.

The vacuum features swivel steering for tight corners, a motorized brush bar for deep carpet cleaning, and a handheld mode for furniture, stairs, and high surfaces. A storage hook on the wand lets you hang the handheld vacuum for convenient storage or wheel it around in mini storage mode.

Performance

Carpet Cleaning

The Shark HV301 delivers powerful suction on carpets, picking up dirt, crumbs, and pet hair efficiently. Its independent brush roll motor agitates fibers to lift embedded dirt, while multiple cutouts on the brush head prevent scattering of debris. Users note that it works well for low-pile rugs and carpets, though it may not match the suction power of larger Shark uprights.

Hard Floor Cleaning

While effective on hard floors, some users find it average compared to other vacuums. The fluffy strip behind the brush roll helps reduce debris scattering and lightly dusts hard floors, but the unit is noisy due to the motor’s position near your ears.

Edge Cleaning

Edge cleaning performance is mixed. The right and front sides are cleaned effectively, but the left edge can be challenging due to the brush design. Users may need to perform a second pass in corners or along walls.

Filter and Maintenance

The Shark HV301 comes with washable HEPA filters, including pre-motor and post-motor filters. While easy to clean, the lack of gaskets around the filters means some microscopic dust may bypass the system, reducing air filtration efficiency slightly.

Emptying the dust cup is straightforward: press the orange release button, and dirt falls into the trash. However, hair can wrap around the internal spindle, so occasional cleaning is necessary.

Accessories

• Crevice Tool – Full suction, great for tight spaces
  
• Stair Tool – Adjustable angle with lint pickers for pet hair
  
• Dusting Brush – Twistable for ceiling fans and high surfaces
  
• Upholstery Tool – Efficient for couches, mattresses, and furniture
  

The vacuum’s versatility allows it to function as an upright, canister, and handheld vacuum, making it suitable for virtually every cleaning scenario.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and highly maneuverable
  
• Corded power for unlimited runtime
  
• Motorized brush roll for deep carpet cleaning
  
• Convertible to handheld vacuum
  
• Swivel steering for tight spaces
  
• Washable HEPA filters
  
• Multiple versatile accessories
  
• Compact storage with wand hook
  

Cons:

• Can be noisy
  
• Edge cleaning inconsistent on some sides
  
• Internal hose prone to splitting
  
• Dust filters not fully sealed (some dust escapes)
  
• Top-heavy, can’t stand upright without leaning
  
• Cable is fixed to handheld for outdoor bin emptying
  

Real User Feedback

Corena White: “Perfect little vacuum, works great on carpets and hard floors. Lightweight and easy to handle. Only issue is the harder hand grip can be uncomfortable for arthritis.”

PJM: “Best vacuum I’ve ever bought! Picks up dirt you can’t even see on hardwood and carpets. Strong motor and very pleased with performance.”

Educated Consumer: “Powerful suction, light weight, handles pet hair, dirt, and messes easily. Excellent versatility and accessories. Worth the price!”

Matthew Flores: “Easy to carry between floors, cleans crumbs efficiently, and storage is simple. Top-heavy but manageable.”

Overall, users rate the Shark HV301 very highly, appreciating its performance, lightweight design, and versatile cleaning modes.

Final Verdict

The Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a lightweight, versatile, and powerful corded vacuum. 

While it may not fully replace a heavy-duty upright on thick carpets, its performance across multiple surfaces, ease of storage, and extensive accessory kit make it a practical, all-in-one cleaning solution.

If you want a vacuum that combines handheld convenience with upright and canister functionality, the Shark HV301 is a solid investment, backed by Shark’s reliable 5-year warranty.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5)

Read Also: Shark HV322 Vs HV301: The In-depth Comparison