I have not used a shark upright before and I was pleasantly surprised.  I have always used another popular brand that is much more expensive, but this navigator did a great job!  I had to get used to the swivel of the vacuum head, but that was easy enough.  I really like the self cleaning brush roll!  The attachments are nice as well.  I only wish the power cord were longer, especially with so many open concept floor plans out there.  All in all, a great vacuum!  It did a really good job picking up sand and hair!