Upright vacuum cleaners hold the largest market share in the United States. Despite their heavy weight, these long-standing devices have gained trust over the years, thanks to their powerful suction that many users rely on for top-notch performance. Their high suction power is often trusted for keeping carpets clean and picking up stubborn dirt.
While you might continue to rely on the upright vacuum cleaner you purchased a decade ago, there are popular models from manufacturers like Shark, Bissell, Eureka, and Hoover that have strengths other than suction power, such as lightness and ease of use.
For our latest testing, we've gathered 13 popular upright vacuum cleaners from the latest and top-selling products across various manufacturers. These units underwent thorough evaluations based on 10 key points. Stay tuned as we present our top picks in our rankings.
At mybest, we define the best upright vacuum cleaner as one that is light and easy to use, making daily cleaning feel more enjoyable and less of a hassle. Providing a comprehensive guide on selecting an upright vacuum cleaner and offering genuine insights based on thorough tests, we encourage you to use this information as a reference when making a purchasing decision.
Bruce Vance has been involved in the cleaning industry for more than 30 years. In 1991, he and his wife Sarah founded Town & Country Cleaning Services, a company that covered a broad range of cleaning services initially, now focusing entirely on residential and light office cleaning. Bruce was Chair of the Technical Advisory Committee of the IICRC (Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification) for Residential Cleaning and was instrumental in the development of the House Cleaning Technician certification. He is an IICRC-approved instructor who taught the HCT class to students from more than 10 countries and nearly every state.
Dave Taylor has been involved in the consumer electronics business for many years, both as an entrepreneur and as a journalist and marketing consultant. A frequent CES Innovations judge, he has also reviewed over a thousand popular audio and electronic devices on his AskDaveTaylor YouTube channel. He also teaches marketing and communication at the University of Denver, where he's been honored as a Leader in Teaching Excellence. Visitors often comment that his office looks like a miniature BestBuy, with dozens of headphones, earbuds, laptops, display screens, and much, much more.
During his university years, Hiroki Tamaru worked as a dispatch sales representative for Dyson, where he was in charge of vacuum sales at electronics stores for two years. As head of HVAC and vacuums at mybest, Hiroki has rigorously tested and reviewed a diverse range of over 150 vacuum cleaners and HVAC products such as evaporative coolers, oil heaters, and cordless vacuums, and more from notable appliance brands such as Haier, De'Longhi, and Electrolux, HVAC manufacturers like Hessaire, and vacuum cleaner manufacturers like BISSELL and Eureka. He meticulously evaluates performance metrics, features, energy consumption, and more. Leveraging his sales experience in the household appliance industry, Hiroki strives to create content that makes it easy for anyone to develop a passion for these products.
Our team looked for products capable of efficiently suctioning most dirt from the depths of the carpet in a single pass.
We looked for models that perfectly vacuum dirt from deep within the short-pile carpet in one back-and-forth motion.
For hard flooring, we tested products looking for ones that can suck up all the dirt on the surface in one go.
At mybest, we checked for products that can suck up the debris deep within the carpet on stairs in one go.
Our testers tested vacuums to see which ones can suck up all the debris on the surface of hard floor stairs in one round trip.
We had our testers evaluate upright vacuum cleaners on how easy they are to use after using them on three types of flooring materials.
Our team looked for upright vacuums that require minimal maintenance and infrequent emptying of the trash.
Versatility is important, so we tested how well each product can be used to clean each part of a house with its attachments and different modes.
We checked for products that have less chance of a cord tangling when cleaning a large room.
Our team measured the operational noise for each product to evaluate how quiet they are to the human ear and to ensure minimum stress for pets.
All product tests
were conducted in-house at mybest
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.The mybest team independently conducts its own tests to rank products.
Table of Contents
Kenmore
Good Suction, Easy Handling – A Game-Changer in Upright Vacuum Cleaners
Dyson Manufacturing
Incredible Suction Power, but Potential for Carpet Damage
SharkNinja Operating
Sufficient Versatility and Usability, but Somewhat Heavy and Less Flexible
During this assessment, at mybest, we conducted a variety of tests including testing suction power across three types of flooring materials and checking user-friendliness with real testers.
Based on our findings, we found 4 upright vacuum cleaners that stood out for different reasons.
mybest highly recommends Kenmore's Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum as the top choice for an upright vacuum cleaner.
This product earns glowing reviews primarily due to its uncompromised suction power and remarkable effectiveness in effortlessly cleaning carpets with long fibers akin to a smooth floor surface. Despite lacking a mode change function for adjusting the brush position based on floor material, the robust rotation of the brush imparts a sensation of being effortlessly guided along during the cleaning operation.
Furthermore, near the dust case lid, there is a convenient button that, when pressed the paper bag drops, enabling you to dispose of the trash without touching it at all.
Priced at just $200, this vacuum cleaner is poised to be the ideal companion in your daily life.
This is a valuable gem that greatly changes the impression that "upright vacuum cleaners equals heavy and difficult to handle" by achieving a balance of suction power and resistance to sticking. With an average overall weight, lifting and moving may require some effort, yet the cleaning experience is unlikely to feel overly burdensome.
A small but significant point is the placement of instructions at the power source and parts connection section, which prevented any struggles during assembly and cleanup, contributing to a favorable impression.
While upright vacuum cleaners typically boast strong suction power, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Complete stands out as exceptionally powerful. It effectively vacuums nearly all debris on short-pile carpet or flooring and approximately half of it on long-pile carpet.
Although the body is notably heavy, and its design lacks the convenience of separating the dust collection part from the head, Dyson stands as the sole option for those prioritizing intense suction power over ease of use.
Hearing "half capacity" might sound inefficient, but visually, it's almost perfect. This vacuum even takes care of troublesome trash like pet hair, capturing all visible waste right up to the edges of the walls.
Non-Dyson vacuums, even after 5 passes, were only able to suction about 25% of the debris.
Yet, aggressive brush action during use can potentially harm your carpet, with certain manufacturers cautioning against overuse to prevent damage. Canister vacuums, while causing less harm to carpets than their upright counterparts, often come with reduced airflow due to their lighter build.
Investigate the type of carpet in your home and choose a vacuum cleaner that suits it.
The Shark Stratos DuoClean Powered Lift-Away with Odor Neutralizer Upright Vacuum stood out for its excellent versatility. The removable dust collection part and the direct attachment of the hose to the main head enable the vacuum to retain the potent suction of corded models while effortlessly reaching intricate spaces reminiscent of a stick cleaner, such as under the bed.
Another great feature is the control module located near the handle, making it easy to switch modes while cleaning and allowing you to clean without interruption, even in houses with multiple types of flooring.
Cleaning stairs can be challenging if the dust collection part isn't removable. Even when detachable, if the vacuum lacks compatibility with a larger head, you'll find yourself cleaning with a small nozzle, consuming more time.
This product can be described as one that combines the best features of an upright vacuum cleaner and a stick cleaner, reaching even those hard-to-reach spots.
In the low-price range, the PowerSpeed Bagless from Eureka was the most well-balanced overall.
While the head is somewhat large and less maneuverable, its light weight of around 11 pounds makes it more manageable compared to other vacuum cleaners, enhancing its overall reputation. This feature proves particularly advantageous when navigating stairs or negotiating corners.
Cheaper vacuum cleaners tend to have larger heads, making it potentially difficult to clean under furniture. Also, many cannot be assembled without screws, which may make the setup process seem laborious.
However, as long as these drawbacks don't bother you, such vacuum cleaners can serve perfectly well as your main cleaning device.
The aforementioned products are our recommendations. In the following sections, we will detail the tests we conducted and the corresponding results.
At mybest, we filmed each product in action when assessing the amount of visible debris picked up from vacuuming back and forth to compare their effectiveness.
In addition, we also quantified the dust cup capacity after each vacuum session. We evaluated the vacuum's ability to capture even invisible particles, particularly relevant for households with pets or individuals with allergies.
As a result, we found the following:
Most upright vacuum cleaners can pick up the majority of the dirt on short carpets (about 3/8 inch in pile height) in one pass.
The same is true for longer carpets (approximately 1 inch in pile height), with most upright vacuum cleaners picking up the majority of noticeable debris, including pet hair, in one pass.
However, when we measured the actual capacity of the dust case, we found that the suction power was less than half of the expected performance. Vacuuming the same spot about 50 times still couldn't completely remove the deep-seated sand we placed in the fibers.
For short-pile carpets, mid to high-priced manufacturers like Dyson, Kenmore, and Shark score particularly high, suctioning about 80% on a single pass, with no visible residue to the naked eye.
If the suction amounts to roughly 70% after one pass, there might be visible remnants like crumbs from snacks, dust, or sand, necessitating a repeat pass for thorough cleaning.
While the trend of hard floors in homes has risen in recent years, it's essential to note that upright vacuum cleaners could potentially cause damage if used on hard floors.
Carpets, being prone to accumulating allergens and dust, require meticulous cleaning, especially in households with allergy-prone individuals.
Using a cordless vacuum cleaner for carpet cleaning might be frustrating, as it could lead to a quick depletion of battery life or insufficient suction power and brush strength.
When choosing an upright vacuum cleaner, it's crucial to consider not only suction power but also ease of handling.
For this round of testing, we invited a group of male and female testers to assess the vacuum cleaners on different surfaces: hard flooring, short-pile carpet, and long-pile carpet. As a result of their assessment on ease of cleaning, we found the following:
Just because a vacuum cleaner is expensive, it doesn't mean it's always more convenient to use. Products with extremely high suction power or a large head/suction area can increase friction on the carpet, making it difficult to maneuver the vacuum.
Cleaning thick-pile carpets can be challenging, but the Kenmore, Shark's Stratos, and Eureka models glide over them with ease. Overall, user reviews have been fairly positive, with many praising Kenmore for its "dreamlike sweep," even over fluffy carpets.
In homes where short-pile carpets are common, those who do not particularly worry about how much the vacuum cleaner sticks to the carpet should focus on the grip's fatigue resistance.
If the handle is not ring-shaped or doesn't have a grip, there's a possibility that your hand may get tired after extended use.
Kenmore, in addition to its resistance to sticking, has a closed handle that is easy to grip. Although there are no features like a bulgy grip or slip resistance, it might not tire your hand as much.
Flexibility is crucial for a vacuum for enhanced maneuverability. Certain upright vacuum cleaners have a swivel in the head, enabling natural turns in the desired direction with a slight wrist twist, making it easier to clean around furniture legs and room corners.
On the other hand, vacuum cleaners without a swivel add a burden, requiring users to pull the heavy dust collection part sideways during turns. Given the weight of the upright vacuum cleaner's main body, a swivel saves the day for usability.
The typical lifespan of an upright vacuum cleaner is 5 to 10 years. Due to its extended usage, concerns regarding its effectiveness for cleaning the entire house are valid.
In this assessment, we not only checked for basic tools and hose length but also evaluated weight for portability and examined any special features that help with vacuuming every corner of a house.
Among upright vacuum cleaners, those equipped with the "Lift-Away" feature allow you to detach the dust collection part from the head and switch it to a different nozzle. This flexibility allows for better-detailed cleaning in areas such as stairs and atop shelves.
Among the 13 products reviewed, over half featured a detachable dust collector from the head. Notably, Shark's Stratos DuoClean Powered Lift-Away stands out as the sole model enabling the attachment of a hose to the main large head after dust collector removal.
In addition to cleaning tricky areas, the main head can navigate areas untouched by the dust collector, such as under sofas and tables. If it's challenging to clean detailed places with only an upright vacuum cleaner, we also recommend using a handheld cleaner on surfaces like sofas and tabletops. At mybest, we tested suction power on various materials, from hard floor materials to sofa cushion covers.
Nozzles explicitly designed for stair cleaning may be lacking; hence, utilizing a small attachment is necessary, potentially extending cleaning time. Opting for a vacuum with a switchable main head, as seen in Shark products, or one equipped with a floor head attachment, as in Dyson products, proves more efficient.
Pet hairs that fall on the sofa may be difficult to pick up with vacuum attachments, so you should use rubber or latex gloves, or an upholstery brush.
The Shark Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV Upright Vacuum and the Vertex Pro Powered Lift-Away Cordless Vacuum felt lighter when the main body and the hose were separated. Both weigh under 8 pounds, making them easy to carry around various places in the house.
While cleaning the vacuum cleaner may not be the most appealing task, it is crucial to do so regularly, particularly emptying the dust case, as it directly impacts suction power.
Certainly, the most convenient method for waste disposal involves the use of a paper-pack system. Beyond its ease of disposal, it offers hygienic benefits as there's minimal airborne dust during waste disposal. This dust collection system is particularly popular among people with allergies.
However, in recent years, there has been an increasing trend towards bagless vacuum cleaners that don't incur running costs. If you choose this type of vacuum, selecting one without protrusions on the dust bin will prevent the trash from getting caught, facilitating easier disposal.
When the bag becomes full, the efficiency of the vacuum cleaner significantly decreases, so it's advised to replace it when the bag is about half or two-thirds full.
A roller-type head, like that of a Shark vacuum, avoids entanglement with hair or dust. Similarly, heads with narrow brush spacing, like those of Dyson or Bissell, are less likely to cause hair entanglement. Both types are relatively easy to maintain, lacking bumps where debris could accumulate.
On the other hand, a head that is less likely to cause hair entanglement has wider spaces between the brushes and no gaps between the brush and the suction port. While it is easier for debris to get attached, there is no space for the dust to slip through, so even with a single pass over a carpet, dust and hair will remain inside the head.
Products | Image | mybest Score | Click to purchase | Key features | Main Score | Details | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Suction Power on Long-Pile Carpet | Suction Power on Short-Pile Carpet | Suction Power on Hard Flooring | Ease of Cleaning Carpet Stairs | Ease of Cleaning Hard Flooring Stairs | Ease of Operation | Ease of Maintenance | Versatility | Cord Management | Noise Level | Width of the Main Body | Depth of the Main Body | Height of the Main Body | Weight of the Main Body | Type of Head | Dust Collection Method | Swivel Function | Separability of Hose and Dust Collection Unit | Dust Collection Volume | Dust Sensor Available | Dust Case Washable | Filter Washable | Operating Noise (High Mode) | Operating Noise (Standard Mode) | Accessories | Width of the Main Head | Length of the Cord | Automatic Cord Rewind Feature | Hair Entanglement Prevention on Main Head | ||||||
1 | Kenmore Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum | ![]() | 4.51 | Good Suction, Easy Handling – A Game-Changer in Upright Vacuum Cleaners | 4.15 | 4.78 | 4.77 | 3.69 | 4.95 | 4.41 | 4.87 | 4.68 | 4.50 | 3.59 | 8.1 in. | 13.0 in. | 34.0 in. | 14.0 lb. | Power Head | Paper Bag | Detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 3.1 L | 78.4dB | 78.3dB | 6pcs Dust Bags, Upholstery Tool, Pet Head, Crevice Tool, Deluxe Dusting Brush | 11.0 in. | 28.0 ft. | |||||||
2 | Dyson Manufacturing Ball Animal 3 Complete | ![]() | 4.41 | Incredible Suction Power, but Potential for Carpet Damage | 4.42 | 4.88 | 5.00 | 3.75 | 4.88 | 3.90 | 4.65 | 4.04 | 4.75 | 3.83 | 11.0 in. | 15.5 in. | 42.2 in. | 17.3 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Non-detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 1.7L | 73.9dB | 73.2dB | Tangle-free turbine tool, Stair tool, Pet groom tool, Combination tool, Reach-under tool, Multi-angle brush, Articulating hard floor tool, Fabric and mattress tool, Quick-release carbon fiber soft dusting brush, Tool bag | 11.0 in. | 30.0 ft. | |||||||
3 | SharkNinja Operating Shark|Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV Upright Vacuum | ![]() | 4.37 | Effortless Roller-type Head With Ample Suction for Short-Pile Rugs | 4.06 | 4.71 | 5.00 | 4.21 | 4.93 | 4.28 | 3.96 | 4.71 | 4.00 | 3.84 | 12.0 in. | 13.0 in. | 45.5 in. | 14.4 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 0.8 L | 73.7dB | 72.6dB | Crevice tool, Upholstery tool, Anti-allergen dust brush | 12.0 in. | 25.0 ft. | |||||||
4 | SharkNinja Operating Shark|Stratos DuoClean Powered Lift-Away with Odor Neutralizer Upright Vacuum|AZ3002 | ![]() | 4.36 | Sufficient Versatility and Usability, but Somewhat Heavy and Less Flexible | 3.67 | 4.77 | 5.00 | 3.81 | 5.00 | 4.16 | 4.34 | 4.75 | 4.75 | 3.72 | 11.0 in. | 12.2 in. | 46.5 in. | 16.7 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Detachable & Power Brush Compatible | 1.4 L | 75.6dB | 75.5dB | Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool, HairPro Self-cleaning Pet Power Brush | 12.0 in. | 30.0 ft. | |||||||
5 | Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | ![]() | 4.32 | Lightweight with Few Weaknesses, All Under $100 but No Swivel Included | 4.03 | 4.40 | 4.96 | 4.05 | 4.96 | 4.16 | 4.76 | 4.17 | 4.50 | 3.62 | 6.5 in. | 13.4 in. | 44.5 in. | 10.0 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Non-detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 2.6 L | 78.0dB | 77.1dB | Pet turbo tool, Crevice tool, Dusting brush, Upholstery tool | 13.3 in. | 25.0 ft. | |||||||
6 | Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum Cleaner|2252 | ![]() | 4.25 | Performs Like a Dyson on Certain Floors but Tends to Stick | 4.39 | 4.22 | 4.56 | 3.75 | 4.50 | 4.08 | 4.55 | 4.00 | 4.50 | 3.76 | 13.0 in. | 14.0 in. | 44.5 in. | 12.5 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Non-detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 1.0 L | 75.1dB | 74.6dB | Crevice Tool, Pet TurboEraser Tool, Dusting Brush, Pet Hair Corner Tool | 13.5 in. | 25.0 ft. | |||||||
7 | Bissell MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet|2998 | ![]() | 4.24 | Notable Flaw: Drags Debris. Otherwise, Strong Suction With Few Weaknesses | 3.99 | 4.51 | 3.75 | 3.76 | 4.97 | 4.12 | 4.42 | 4.66 | 4.50 | 3.95 | 7.3 in. | 14.0 in. | 32.0 in. | 15.7 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 0.8 L | 71.2dB | 70.9dB | 2-in-1 Dusting Brush & Crevice Tool, Pet Turbo Eraser Tool | 11.8 in. | 25.0 ft. | |||||||
8 | SharkNinja Operating Shark|Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe|NV360 | ![]() | 4.22 | Budget-Friendly Choice – focus on Suction Power and Maintenance | 4.13 | 4.62 | 3.80 | 3.77 | 5.00 | 4.08 | 3.96 | 4.53 | 4.50 | 3.82 | 7.8 in. | 14.9 in. | 45.5 in. | 16.0 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 0.9 L | 74.3dB | 73.0dB | Crevice Nozzle,Mattress/Fabric Head | 11.3 in. | 25.0 ft. | |||||||
9 | Bissell Powerforce Helix Bagless Upright Vacuum|3313 | ![]() | 4.17 | Unbeatable Affordability and Lightness, but Low Versatility and Ease of Use | 4.52 | 4.59 | 4.07 | 4.09 | 5.00 | 3.84 | 4.13 | 4.10 | 3.67 | 3.86 | 6.9 in. | 14.3 in. | 44.0 in. | 12.0 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Non-detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 3.8 L | 73.1dB | 72.7dB | Crevice Nozzle,Mattress/Fabric Head | 13.4 in. | 19.0 ft. | |||||||
9 | SharkNinja Operating Shark|Navigator Lift-Away Professional|NV356E | ![]() | 4.17 | Garbage Disposal and Maintenance are Troublesome, With Subtle Suction Power | 4.01 | 4.60 | 3.41 | 4.10 | 4.90 | 4.36 | 3.79 | 4.53 | 4.50 | 3.87 | 11.4 in. | 15.0 in. | 45.5 in. | 13.7 lb. | Power Head | Bagless | Detachable & Power Brush Not Compatible | 0.87 L | 73.0dB | 72.5dB | Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool | 11.3 in. | 25.0 ft. |
Dust Collection Method | Paper Bag |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 3.1 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
According to a 10-point test conducted by mybest, the top of the upright vacuum cleaners is Kenmore's Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum. It effectively balances suction power and user-friendly features, making it highly recommended for households with short-pile carpets.
Although it lacks the option to adjust the brush position based on the flooring, its simple design prevents the brush from spinning on hardwood floors, avoiding scratches while allowing it to operate on carpets. It excelled in suction power tests on both short-pile carpet and hardwood flooring, scoring over 4.7. Users praised it, saying, "It moves in the direction you want it to, even on long-pile carpets."
However, certain aspects of its performance, particularly the suction power on carpeted stairs, left room for improvement. Depending on the material of the stairs, the cleaning process might take a bit longer. Although it's a paper bag model, which makes waste disposal easy, there were instances of debris, like hair and pet fur, getting tangled due to the spacing between the brushes.
Nevertheless, for a price tag under $200, it delivers an overall performance akin to high-end models, with strong suction and smooth maneuverability.
Width of the Main Body | 8.1 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 13.0 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 34.0 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 78.4dB |
Accessories | 6pcs Dust Bags, Upholstery Tool, Pet Head, Crevice Tool, Deluxe Dusting Brush |
Width of the Main Head | 11.0 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 1.7L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 Complete is a high-end model in the company's series and comes with an abundance of accessories but caters more to users prioritizing powerful suction over versatility and ease of use.
The product's suction power was highly rated, scoring nearly perfect on flooring and short-pile carpets. During a test on a long-pile carpet, running the vacuum back and forth five times effectively cleaned up almost half of the scattered waste, leaving the carpet nearly spotless. Additionally, the vacuum demonstrated the capability to pick up debris left behind by other vacuum cleaners.
The vacuum's strong suction, evident in the dust case capturing carpet fibers, isn't gentle on carpets. Its weight and large suction mouth firmly attach to the carpet, garnering negative feedback like "a very heavy monster" and "cleaning with this device is a bad experience" in usability tests, contrasting with the user-friendly Kenmore vacuum.
The vacuum's body and hose are not detachable. To clean stairs, position the vacuum at the bottom and extend the long 11.5-foot hose. Caution is advised if you have a lot of steps to vacuum.
Width of the Main Body | 11.0 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 15.5 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 42.2 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 73.9dB |
Accessories | Tangle-free turbine tool, Stair tool, Pet groom tool, Combination tool, Reach-under tool, Multi-angle brush, Articulating hard floor tool, Fabric and mattress tool, Quick-release carbon fiber soft dusting brush, Tool bag |
Width of the Main Head | 11.0 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 0.8 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Shark's Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV Upright Vacuum features the company's unique roller-type head, "DuoClean PowerFins," renowned for its rare occurrence of hair entanglement.
Shark's roller head vacuums, lacking stiff brushes, avoid digging into long-pile carpets and are noted for their comfortable handling compared to other brands. However, some reviewers mentioned that its swivel movement range seemed somewhat narrower than other products, commenting, "It's very easy to move forward, but a bit difficult to turn."
While its non-digging brush design offers gentler treatment, it falls short in deep dust suction. When tested on a long-pile carpet, visible dust disappeared after one pass, but only about 10% of the scattered dirt was sucked up after five passes. Still, on low-pile carpets, it managed to suction about 95% of the dust after five passes. Unless you have long-pile carpets in your main living spaces, it might not pose a big problem.
The box contains assembly instructions, and the main body has written instructions for parts separation and mode switching, ensuring a straightforward assembly and operation process and minimizing the likelihood of confusion.
Width of the Main Body | 12.0 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 13.0 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 45.5 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 73.7dB |
Accessories | Crevice tool, Upholstery tool, Anti-allergen dust brush |
Width of the Main Head | 12.0 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 1.4 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Shark Stratos DuoClean Powered Lift-Away with Odor Neutralizer Upright Vacuum stands out as the sole product in our recent tests that enables the removal of the dust collection unit and hose from the main body. Combining robust suction power characteristic of upright vacuums with the flexibility of a stick cleaner, it offers a unique and versatile cleaning solution. Ideal for homes with numerous sofas and shelves, it not only ensures thorough room cleaning but also reaches under furniture effortlessly.
As one of the company's higher-priced models, it has been designed with ease of use in mind. Unlike other tested products, you can conveniently switch modes at your fingertips. You can effortlessly control power and toggle between modes for various floor materials, all from the handle. This eliminates the need to interrupt cleaning, bend over, or manipulate the front nozzle of the main unit.
Similar to our highly rated Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV Upright Vacuum, this Shark model has a roller-type head, making it less prone to hair entanglement and ensuring user comfort. However, it weighs approximately 2 pounds more than the mentioned model, and in usability testing on particularly long pile carpets, we frequently heard from testers that "it is difficult to move backward or turn."
Width of the Main Body | 11.0 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 12.2 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 46.5 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 75.6dB |
Accessories | Crevice Tool, Upholstery Tool, HairPro Self-cleaning Pet Power Brush |
Width of the Main Head | 12.0 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 2.6 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Priced affordably at under $100, the Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner impresses with commendable scores in suction power, ease of use, and versatility. While there are some drawbacks, this unit is recommended for cost-conscious individuals or those seeking a supplementary vacuum to complement their robot vacuum or another upright model.
One necessary caveat is its difficulty in maneuverability. At 11.2 pounds, it is fairly light compared to other upright vacuums. While lifting and moving forward is relatively easy due to the brush position adjusting to floor type, the lack of a swivel requires adjusting posture and force for turning. Feedback includes remarks like, "It's very lightweight, but you can't turn without using your whole body."
Our review findings highlight a trend where cheaper models often have larger heads, and this holds true for this product. The vacuum tends to wobble when lifted, attributed to its lower center of gravity. Additionally, it was observed to drag sand and dust while vacuuming carpets.
Nevertheless, it manages to suck up approximately 90% of debris, even from short-pile carpets after about five passes. Given the price point, revisiting areas to pick up any remaining debris is likely to be a less stressful experience.
Width of the Main Body | 6.5 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 13.4 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 44.5 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 78.0dB |
Accessories | Pet turbo tool, Crevice tool, Dusting brush, Upholstery tool |
Width of the Main Head | 13.3 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 1.0 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum Cleaner, as the name suggests, was developed for pet hair removal, but it struggles with carpets. Despite the swivel, the brush's weak rotation can be a disadvantage, especially on long-pile carpets, where it tends to stick. Usability tests generated mostly "very dissatisfied" responses, with comments such as "The carpet moves when I try to move the vacuum" and "It is almost impossible to move."
As an economical model priced around $100, this vacuum, like others in its category, tends to have an oversized head compared to the suction port. This design may lead to dirt being dragged around, leaving particles like sand or crumbs after a single pass on a short-pile carpet or floorboard. While it can eventually absorb everything after five passes, achieving a thorough vacuuming requires time.
On the other hand, when cleaning a long-pile carpet, after five passes, it absorbed about half the dirt, equivalent to a Dyson. While it may not completely eliminate deeply embedded dirt in the fibers, it effectively removes visible debris like dust and sand in just one pass.
Minor points of concern included the need for screws in the assembly of the main unit and the slight difficulty in attaching the dust case. For those new to upright vacuum cleaners, these aspects might pose some confusion.
Width of the Main Body | 13.0 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 14.0 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 44.5 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 75.1dB |
Accessories | Crevice Tool, Pet TurboEraser Tool, Dusting Brush, Pet Hair Corner Tool |
Width of the Main Head | 13.5 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 0.8 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Bissell's MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet may leave visible debris after just one pass, and the difference between it and the higher-ranking Eurekas is the presence of a swivel and the ability to detach the dust collection compartment and hose from the body. If you are not particularly concerned with flexibility and versatility, you might want to consider the less expensive Eureka.
The low suction score was due to the head, with a small suction opening and no rollers underneath causing the head to adhere to the floor closely. This issue is especially noticeable on hard floors, where it tends to drag debris. While all vacuums manage to pick up visible debris in a single pass on short-pile carpets, this product leaves a clear blue trace of sand after just one pass.
Contrasting with the suction power, the ease of cleaning score is relatively better. Although the power on/off switch is near the dust collection compartment, you can switch modes for different floor materials at the handle. Its moderate suction power allows for smooth movement on short pile carpets, with the spinning brush earning praise for "exceptionally smooth movement," according to some testers.
Additionally, it appears to be easy to maintain as the high density of the brush prevents dirt from getting tangled in the head. The wide dust cup outlet and simplified filter section allow for easy disposal of dirt without clogging.
Width of the Main Body | 7.3 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 14.0 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 32.0 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 71.2dB |
Accessories | 2-in-1 Dusting Brush & Crevice Tool, Pet Turbo Eraser Tool |
Width of the Main Head | 11.8 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 0.9 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is the highest-ranking model within Shark's entry-level lineup. While it occasionally faces drawbacks in suction power and handling, it uniquely combines Shark-like quality with remarkable affordability. It's a noteworthy option for homes entirely carpeted with short-pile carpets, bearing in mind the mentioned disadvantages.
This product has limited suction mode options, offering only "Bare Floor" and "Brushroll On" without a brush position adjustment feature. Moreover, when compared to higher-end models, the brush rotation doesn't seem quite as powerful. Although it maneuvers rather well on short-pile carpets, there have been reports of it "getting stuck in the carpet, like it's getting speared into it" when used on long-pile carpets.
It works well on short-pile carpet, where it sucks up around 80% of spilled debris in a single pass and about 96.4% after five passes. However, it encounters challenges on both long-pile carpets and hard floor surfaces. The small suction opening and the hard material at the top of the suction port often result in pushing debris further in rather than effectively suctioning it up.
Additionally, on closer inspection of the bottom side of the vacuum head, there is a slight gap between the brushes, making it easy for hair and dust to get caught and then passed on to the next brush, complicating the cleaning process.
Width of the Main Body | 7.8 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 14.9 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 45.5 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 74.3dB |
Accessories | Crevice Nozzle,Mattress/Fabric Head |
Width of the Main Head | 11.3 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 3.8 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
Bissell's Powerforce Helix Bagless Upright Vacuum is the least expensive vacuum cleaner among the products we tested.
Due to its low price, the convenience of this vacuum is lacking. It doesn't have a swivel, and the main body can't be separated from the hose, which is below the average length of 4.6 feet. The cord is also short, at 19 feet, and might not reach far ends in a large living room. If you have a large room, you may want to increase your budget and choose a similar option from Eureka.
Despite the main body weighing less than 10 pounds and being very lightweight, the brush's low rotating ability had a negative impact on handling comfort. Testers, particularly on long-pile carpets, gave it low ratings, citing strain on the wrist. Additionally, the non-round and pointed grip raised concerns among some users, with worries that it might cause discomfort or injury during cleaning.
On the positive side, despite its affordability, the suction power is quite commendable. Particularly on long-pile carpets, it managed to suction nearly 70% of the entire area after five swipes, surpassing Dyson. However, with a huge head, it tends to drag dirt along, leaving bits of debris on flooring and short pile carpets. The challenge lies in the head's inability to adhere to the dirt despite the high suction power effectively.
Width of the Main Body | 6.9 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 14.3 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 44.0 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 73.1dB |
Accessories | Crevice Nozzle,Mattress/Fabric Head |
Width of the Main Head | 13.4 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 0.87 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Shark's Navigator Lift-Away Professional struggled to increase its suction score due to its head lacking unevenness, causing it to adhere completely to the floor, especially on hard flooring where it tends to drag small debris like sand. Overall, if you're a stickler for Shark, it's better to choose higher-ups like the Rotator or Stratos, and if you're budget-conscious, the Kenmore vacuum is a viable alternative.
Differing not only in head design but also in the structure of the dust collection section from higher-ranked products, it requires removing two hooks to detach the dust cup instead of the usual push-button mechanism. Disposing of debris involves approximately three units more labor than an average product, potentially causing daily use to be a bit stressful. Concerns about the brush bristles being hard and prone to catching hair also stand out.
While detailed mode switching based on flooring material isn't an option, the strong brush rotation was praised on short-pile carpets with comments like "it moves forward with minimal effort" and "it feels light and easy to turn." However, the close contact of the head to the floor became a drawback, as the brush rotation stopped on long-pile carpet brushes, sometimes pushing in the entire carpet.
Width of the Main Body | 11.4 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 15.0 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 45.5 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 73.0dB |
Accessories | Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool |
Width of the Main Head | 11.3 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 1.3 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
As the name suggests, Hoover's WindTunnel Cord Rewind Pro is the only product featuring a cord rewind function in our recent tests. Pressing the rewind button automatically retracts the cord. However, with an excessively long cord, it may occasionally get jammed inside the unit, necessitating multiple button presses for complete retraction.
In addition, the hose does not detach from the main body, and the unit's weight is nearly 17 pounds, more than 2 pounds heavier than average. Lacking a swivel feature and despite having detailed mode settings for different flooring materials, it can be challenging to handle, even on short-pile carpets. Users reported that it is "hard to turn during linear movement" and "requires physical effort just to move it forward."
Also, the machine's weight is impacted by the large head, affecting suction. While the wide gap between the suction mouth and the brush prevents hair tangling, it delays the transfer of sucked-up dirt to the dust cup. After cleaning and turning the machine off, dirt leaked out of the suction mouth. The head's substantial size can also lead to dragging trash, especially on wooden flooring, where sweeping might seem effective, but fine sand granules can still remain.
While not part of our formal evaluation, it's worth noting that there is excessive exhaust during suction, which can escape and hit your face. People with allergies or those with small children might find the flitting dust bothersome.
Width of the Main Body | 13.5 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 13.0 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 44.0 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 77.2dB |
Accessories | Crevice Tool, Extension Wand, Pivoting Dusting Brush, Upholstery Tool |
Width of the Main Head | 14.1 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 1.0 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Lift-Off Upright Pet Vacuum is adorned with paw prints of dogs and cats. Despite the roller-type head reducing hair tangling, making it suitable for pet owners, overall, opting for higher-ranking products like Kenmore or Shark might be a better choice.
The roller-type head is positioned too close to the floor surface, hindering its ability to advance while suctioning dirt on both flooring and carpets. Its performance is particularly poor on short-pile carpets, leaving dust even after being vacuumed three times.
On carpets, it controls adhesion through the exhaust port and has minimal brush rotation. There are no detailed mode-changing functions according to the floor material. Due to the brush's proximity to the floor, it struggles to move forward even when rotating, especially evident on long-pile carpets. Testers stated, "it hardly moves at all" and "it's so hard to push that even my back gets tired." On top of that, the absence of a grip and a slippery handle can result in fatigue from fingertips to toes by the end of your cleaning session.
The main unit is equipped with straightforward text instructions, ensuring you won't face confusion with basic operations like power switching or dust cup removal.
Width of the Main Body | 12.0 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 13.0 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 44.0 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 74.3dB |
Accessories | Crevice Tool, Pet Turbo Eraser Tool |
Width of the Main Head | 12.5 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
Dust Collection Method | Bagless |
---|---|
Swivel Function | |
Dust Collection Volume | 0.83 L |
What we loved
What we didn't love
The Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum from Shark falls in the mid-price range among upright vacuums and scores reasonably well in terms of versatility and cord manageability.
However, its small suction opening and significant extra space between the head and suction opening lead to a tendency to drag dirt, leaving remnants even after five sweeps on floors, especially on laminate flooring. For a well-balanced vacuum cleaner, considering the higher-ranked Kenmore might be a preferable choice.
The head, which posed challenges during suction power testing, raises concerns as the brush touches the edge, increasing the likelihood of hair getting tangled. If hair becomes stuck due to its hardness, removal can be difficult. Moreover, the three-step process required to remove the dust cup adds to the perception of cumbersome maintenance. When compared to the Kenmore, which is in the same price range and facilitates touchless dirt disposal, recommending this vacuum becomes challenging.
The design, which causes the suction opening to easily adhere to the floor surface, coupled with the unit's weight of about 16 pounds, resulted in a less favorable rating in ease of cleaning tests. Reviews varied on long-pile carpets, with some reviewers providing a low rating, stating "it has a swivel, but it is heavy and hard to move." Failing to excel in both "suction power" and "ease of cleaning," this vacuum cleaner lacks compelling reasons for choosing it.
Width of the Main Body | 6.9 in. |
---|---|
Depth of the Main Body | 12.2 in. |
Height of the Main Body | 45.7 in. |
Dust Sensor Available | |
Dust Case Washable | |
Filter Washable | |
Operating Noise (High Mode) | 71.6dB |
Accessories | Crevice Tool, Dusting Brush, Wide Upholstery Tool |
Width of the Main Head | 11.9 in. |
Automatic Cord Rewind Feature |
At mybest, we define the best upright vacuum cleaners as lightweight and easy to use with powerful suction that makes you want to clean your entire house every day.
To find a top-notch upright vacuum cleaner, we have collected 13 best-selling products from popular manufacturers, as well as those on Amazon, Walmart, Best Buy, and other websites. We thoroughly examined them based on the following ten points.
Products we tested
Our team looked for products capable of efficiently suctioning most dirt from the depths of the carpet in a single pass.
First, we measured the dust case capacity of each vacuum cleaner. Subsequently, we established a 3-foot x 0.5-foot frame on a carpet with a 1-inch pile length, scattered a specific amount of debris within the frame, and activated the switch with the strength corresponding to the automatic mode or standard mode of each product. The vacuum head was then allowed to make one round trip.
We measured the dust case capacity after each round trip and documented the amount of debris sucked in one pass. Our scoring criterion, focusing on capturing even invisible debris in the carpet, was based on the larger quantity of trash sucked up in one round trip, with a limit set at 1.5 ounces, equivalent to 95% of the initially scattered debris.
[Head & Mode]
[Test Equipment]
We looked for models that perfectly vacuum dirt from deep within the short-pile carpet in one back-and-forth motion.
The volume of debris and the scale used are the same as in Test 1.
For hard flooring, we tested products looking for ones that can suck up all the dirt on the surface in one go.
The volume of debris and the scale used are the same as in Test 1.
At mybest, we checked for products that can suck up the debris deep within the carpet on stairs in one go.
First, we measured the dust case capacity of each vacuum cleaner before cleaning. Subsequently, we established a frame approximately 40 inches by 3 inches on a carpet with a 1-inch-long pile and scattered a specific amount of debris within the frame. Turning on the switch at the power level corresponding to each product's automatic or standard mode, we ran the head back and forth once.
After each round trip, we measured the dust case capacity and recorded the amount of debris suctioned at once. Our scoring criterion, focusing on capturing even invisible debris, was based on approximately 0.5 ounces per round trip, equivalent to 87% of the initially scattered debris. The higher the amount of debris suctioned, the more the product was recommended.
[Head & Mode]
[Floor Material]
The scale used is the same as in Test 1.
Our testers tested vacuums to see which ones can suck up all the debris on the surface of hard floor stairs in one round trip.
[Head & Mode]
The amount of debris and the scale used are the same as in Test 4.
We had our testers evaluate upright vacuum cleaners on how easy they are to use after using them on three types of flooring materials.
We conducted cleaning tests with flooring, short-pile carpets, and long-pile carpets using various products. Testers evaluated the ease of cleaning and handling, and we scored each product's recommendation level accordingly.
Testers: Men and women who have used a household upright vacuum cleaner, 5 - 10 participants
Floor materials used: Flooring, short pile carpet, long pile carpet
Cleaning range: 4.4 feet x 6.4 feet
The ease of cleaning each floor surface
The ease of switching power/mode
The ease of gripping and using the handle
Our team looked for upright vacuums that require minimal maintenance and infrequent emptying of the trash.
The tester checked each product and scored them based on the following points, converting the recommendation level of each product into a score.
Dust Collection Volume (Manufacturer's Stated Value)
Effort involved in waste disposal
Is the dust case structured so that the waste doesn't get stuck?
What is the dust collection method?
How hard is it for hair to tangle on head after cleaning the flooring?
How hard is it for long-haired carpets to have hair tangled in the head after cleaning?
How hard is it for short-haired carpets to have hair tangled in the head after cleaning?
Versatility is important, so we tested how well each product can be used to clean each part of a house with its attachments and different modes.
The tester checked each product, scored them based on the following points, and quantified the recommendation level of each product.
Can you separate the main body and the hose?
Whether a brush tool for pets/fabric is included
Whether a gap tool is included
Length of the hose
Weight of the main body
Weight after separating the head and the hose
We checked for products that have less chance of a cord tangling when cleaning a large room.
The testers evaluated each product and scored them based on the points below, converting their recommendation level for each product into a score.
Length of the cord
Presence or absence of automatic cord retraction
Height of the position where the cord is coming out
Our team measured the operational noise for each product to evaluate how quiet they are to the human ear and to ensure minimum stress for pets.
We placed a noise meter 3 feet away from the vacuum cleaner and operated it. We recommended a product if it registered a quieter noise level, with a limit set at 55dB.
Testing Equipment: Noise Meter (Rion "Standard Noise Meter NL-27")
Testing Location: mybest's in-house soundproof room
Ambient Noise: Around 22dB
Mode: Standard Mode (if there is no standard mode, use the weakest mode), High Power Mode
No. 1: Kenmore|Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum
No. 2: Dyson Manufacturing|Ball Animal 3 Complete
No. 3: SharkNinja Operating|Shark|Rotator Pet Lift-Away ADV Upright Vacuum
No. 4: SharkNinja Operating|Shark|Stratos DuoClean Powered Lift-Away with Odor Neutralizer Upright Vacuum|AZ3002
No. 5: Eureka|PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
Health
Beauty
Home goods
Home electronics
PC
Camera
Food and drinks
Kitchen
Fashion
Accessories
Kids and baby
Interior
Hobbies
Outdoor
Home, garden, and tools
Sports and fitness
Pets
Media
Games
Apps
Automotive
Gifts
Mobile devices