There are some major difference between Shark NV80 and NV42 though they look similar.
image from manufacturer
If you want swivel feature, the NV80 fits your needs since it has the swivel steering which the NV42 does not have.
If you want a larger dirt bin, you should choose the NV80, it has 3X dust cup versus 2X on the NV42.
If you are a pet owner or allergy sufferer, the NV80 may be a better choice since it features Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA filter.
If you want a cheap one with longer crevice tool, then buy the NV42 because it is about $20 cheaper and include a 8″ longer crevice tool.
More details, read the specs comparison table below.
Compare Shark NV42 and NV80 Specs
| Shark Navigator Deluxe NV42 Specs | Shark Navigator Professional NV80 Specs | |
|---|---|---|
 | |
|
| Design | Upright | Upright |
| Bagged or Bagless | Bagless | Bagless |
| Clear Dirt Cup | Yes | Yes |
| Dirt Cup Size | Twice the capacity of the original Navigator | Three times that of the original Navigator |
| Power Source | Corded | Corded |
| Cord Length | 25 foot | 30 foot |
| Power | 1200 Watts | 1200 Watts |
| Amps | 10 amps | 10 amps |
| Nozzle Width | 9.25" | 9.5" |
| Weight | 15.1 lbs | 18.6 lbs |
| Never Loses Suction Technologys | Yes | Yes |
| Motorized Brushroll | Ye | Yes |
| Brushroll On/Off | Yes | Yes |
| Washable Filters | Yes | Yes |
| Headlights | No | No |
| HEPA Filtration | No | Yes |
| Filtration | Electrete Filters | Foam Filters and HEPA |
| Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology | No | Yes |
| Manual Height Adjustment | No | No |
| Bottom-empty dust cup | Yes | Yes |
| Attachments | a 5.5" Crevice Tool, 24" Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, and a Pet Hair Power Brush | a 5.5" Crevice Tool, 16" Crevice Tool ,Dusting Brush, Pet Hair Power Brush |
| Handle | Fixed | Fixed |
| Cleaning Wand | 1 wand without handle | 2 wands, one with handle and one without handle |
| Hose | Yes, stretch hose | Yes, stretch hose |
| Speed options | Brush on or suction only | Brush on or suction only |
| Swivel Feature | No | Swivel steering for easy maneuver |
| Color | Gold | White with Gold |
| Self-propelled | No | No |
| Full Bin Indicator | No | No |
| Surface Cleaning Types | Carpet, Bare Floors | Carpet, Bare Floors |
| Warranty | 5 year limited warranty | 5 year limited warranty |
| Manual | Download Manual | Download Shark NV80 manual from Amazon: http://s3.amazonaws.com/szmanuals/dcdf1f182804a108681a9250f14573b3 |
| Suction Control | There is a suction release valve at the top of the hose, you can adjust it to get the desired suction. | There is a suction release valve at the top of the hose, you can adjust it to get the desired suction. |
Please comment below to share your reviews on Shark Navigator NV80/NV42 if you own these vacuums.