In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleOur Top PicksReviewsOthers We TriedWhat to KnowBehind the ScenesFAQWhy Trust PEOPLE?What Is PEOPLE Tested?
In This ArticleView All
View All
Our Top Picks
Reviews
Others We Tried
What to Know
Behind the Scenes
FAQ
Why Trust PEOPLE?
What Is PEOPLE Tested?
Photo:People / Henry Wortock
People / Henry Wortock
When it comes to keeping your home clean, you can’t go wrong with a traditional upright vacuum.Thistype of vacuum cleaneris known for its incredible suction power, large dustbin, and longevity. According to cleaning expertHailey Becnel, an upright vacuum is generally easy to maneuver, endlessly versatile, and usually cost-effective. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the battery dying mid-clean since upright vacuums are usually corded.Benefits of Upright VacuumsWhy upright? Upright vacuum cleaners are generally efficient, with good suction power and relatively large dustbins. They plug into the wall, so you never have to worry about charging the battery, and many have robust filters that capture dust, pet dander, and other airborne particles.To determine which upright vacuums live up to their claims, we tested dozens of models firsthand. We evaluated each vacuum for its effectiveness, maneuverability, portability, and more. We made several messes on carpet, tile, and hardwood to see which upright vacuums could clean them up quickly, then we took the vacuums home to test them out in our daily lives. We found the best bagged and bagless upright vacuums, as well as the best models to suck up pet hair and more, with picks starting under $200.Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum at Amazon$220$150Jump to ReviewBest Overall, Runner-Up:Kenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Vacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$81Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra at Amazon$490Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Hair:SALEBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum at Amazon$176$135Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:SALEShark Rotator Professional Upright Vacuum at Amazon$300$200Jump to ReviewEasiest to Maneuver:Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite Lift-Up Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest with HEPA Filter:Kenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest Bagged:Kenmore Floor Care Elite Upright Vacuum at Amazon$320Jump to ReviewBest Bagless:SALEShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuum at Amazon$319$269Jump to Review
When it comes to keeping your home clean, you can’t go wrong with a traditional upright vacuum.
Thistype of vacuum cleaneris known for its incredible suction power, large dustbin, and longevity. According to cleaning expertHailey Becnel, an upright vacuum is generally easy to maneuver, endlessly versatile, and usually cost-effective. Plus, you don’t have to worry about the battery dying mid-clean since upright vacuums are usually corded.
Benefits of Upright VacuumsWhy upright? Upright vacuum cleaners are generally efficient, with good suction power and relatively large dustbins. They plug into the wall, so you never have to worry about charging the battery, and many have robust filters that capture dust, pet dander, and other airborne particles.
Why upright? Upright vacuum cleaners are generally efficient, with good suction power and relatively large dustbins. They plug into the wall, so you never have to worry about charging the battery, and many have robust filters that capture dust, pet dander, and other airborne particles.
To determine which upright vacuums live up to their claims, we tested dozens of models firsthand. We evaluated each vacuum for its effectiveness, maneuverability, portability, and more. We made several messes on carpet, tile, and hardwood to see which upright vacuums could clean them up quickly, then we took the vacuums home to test them out in our daily lives. We found the best bagged and bagless upright vacuums, as well as the best models to suck up pet hair and more, with picks starting under $200.
Our Top PicksBest Overall:SALEShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum at Amazon$220$150Jump to ReviewBest Overall, Runner-Up:Kenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Vacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$81Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra at Amazon$490Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Hair:SALEBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum at Amazon$176$135Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:SALEShark Rotator Professional Upright Vacuum at Amazon$300$200Jump to ReviewEasiest to Maneuver:Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite Lift-Up Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest with HEPA Filter:Kenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest Bagged:Kenmore Floor Care Elite Upright Vacuum at Amazon$320Jump to ReviewBest Bagless:SALEShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuum at Amazon$319$269Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum at Amazon$220$150Jump to ReviewBest Overall, Runner-Up:Kenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$160Jump to ReviewBest Budget:Vacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$81Jump to ReviewBest Investment:Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra at Amazon$490Jump to ReviewBest for Pet Hair:SALEBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum at Amazon$176$135Jump to ReviewBest Lightweight:SALEShark Rotator Professional Upright Vacuum at Amazon$300$200Jump to ReviewEasiest to Maneuver:Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite Lift-Up Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest with HEPA Filter:Kenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to ReviewBest Bagged:Kenmore Floor Care Elite Upright Vacuum at Amazon$320Jump to ReviewBest Bagless:SALEShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuum at Amazon$319$269Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum at Amazon$220$150Jump to Review
Best Overall:SALEShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum at Amazon$220$150
Best Overall:
SALE
Best Overall, Runner-Up:Kenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$160Jump to Review
Best Overall, Runner-Up:Kenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$160
Best Overall, Runner-Up:
Best Budget:Vacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$81Jump to Review
Best Budget:Vacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$81
Best Budget:
Best Investment:Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra at Amazon$490Jump to Review
Best Investment:Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra at Amazon$490
Best Investment:
Best for Pet Hair:SALEBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum at Amazon$176$135Jump to Review
Best for Pet Hair:SALEBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum at Amazon$176$135
Best for Pet Hair:
Best Lightweight:SALEShark Rotator Professional Upright Vacuum at Amazon$300$200Jump to Review
Best Lightweight:SALEShark Rotator Professional Upright Vacuum at Amazon$300$200
Best Lightweight:
Easiest to Maneuver:Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite Lift-Up Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to Review
Easiest to Maneuver:Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite Lift-Up Bagless Upright Vacuum at Amazon$150
Easiest to Maneuver:
Best with HEPA Filter:Kenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up Vacuum at Amazon$150Jump to Review
Best with HEPA Filter:Kenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up Vacuum at Amazon$150
Best with HEPA Filter:
Best Bagged:Kenmore Floor Care Elite Upright Vacuum at Amazon$320Jump to Review
Best Bagged:Kenmore Floor Care Elite Upright Vacuum at Amazon$320
Best Bagged:
Best Bagless:SALEShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuum at Amazon$319$269Jump to Review
Best Bagless:SALEShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuum at Amazon$319$269
Best Bagless:
Best OverallShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$220$150 at Amazon$200 at Target$338 at WayfairStar QualitiesEffective on carpet, hardwood, tile, and groutBuilt-in HEPA filter removes allergens from the airLarge canister makes for easy, mess-free emptyingRed FlagsNot ideal for stairsHarder to push on carpetAs one would expect from a high-qualityShark vacuum, the Shark Navigator Deluxe was a dream from the moment it came out of the box. It performed remarkably well on all flooring surfaces, effortlessly sucking up all the debris and hair in one or two passes. It also transitioned smoothly between surfaces and was easy to maneuver under furniture and around sharp corners.That said, it was slightly harder to push on high-pile carpet and a little cumbersome on stairs, but this is often the case with upright vacuums. Vacuuming upholstered furniture was a breeze with the pet brush and crevice tool. And thanks to the built-in HEPA filter, this vacuum also traps and removes dust, pollen, dander, and other allergens from your indoor air.The noise level was about average — not excessively loud, but also not ideal for conversing. We found emptying the large dustbin to be simple: It detaches without a fuss and empties without making another mess. Considering the powerful suction, user-friendly design, and overall versatility, we think this Shark upright vacuum is fairly priced and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone in the market for an upright model.How It’s Held UpAfter several months of regular use, the Shark Navigator Deluxe continued to work like a dream. Though it no longer looks new, it still picks up pet hair, dust bunnies, dirt, and crumbs with ease. We love how it gently pulls forward like a self-propelled lawn mower, which makes cleaning feel effortless. The lightweight design and easy-to-empty dirt canister make this vacuum a reigning champ in the upright category.Weight:16 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:3.4 liters |Cord Length:25 feet |Attachments:Pet brush, duster, crevice tool, long-reach hose, floor brush nozzlePHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best OverallShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$220$150 at Amazon$200 at Target$338 at Wayfair
Best OverallShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum
PHOTO: Amazon
$220$150 at Amazon$200 at Target$338 at Wayfair
Star QualitiesEffective on carpet, hardwood, tile, and groutBuilt-in HEPA filter removes allergens from the airLarge canister makes for easy, mess-free emptyingRed FlagsNot ideal for stairsHarder to push on carpet
Star QualitiesEffective on carpet, hardwood, tile, and groutBuilt-in HEPA filter removes allergens from the airLarge canister makes for easy, mess-free emptying
Effective on carpet, hardwood, tile, and grout
Built-in HEPA filter removes allergens from the air
Large canister makes for easy, mess-free emptying
Red FlagsNot ideal for stairsHarder to push on carpet
Not ideal for stairs
Harder to push on carpet
As one would expect from a high-qualityShark vacuum, the Shark Navigator Deluxe was a dream from the moment it came out of the box. It performed remarkably well on all flooring surfaces, effortlessly sucking up all the debris and hair in one or two passes. It also transitioned smoothly between surfaces and was easy to maneuver under furniture and around sharp corners.
That said, it was slightly harder to push on high-pile carpet and a little cumbersome on stairs, but this is often the case with upright vacuums. Vacuuming upholstered furniture was a breeze with the pet brush and crevice tool. And thanks to the built-in HEPA filter, this vacuum also traps and removes dust, pollen, dander, and other allergens from your indoor air.
The noise level was about average — not excessively loud, but also not ideal for conversing. We found emptying the large dustbin to be simple: It detaches without a fuss and empties without making another mess. Considering the powerful suction, user-friendly design, and overall versatility, we think this Shark upright vacuum is fairly priced and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it to anyone in the market for an upright model.
How It’s Held UpAfter several months of regular use, the Shark Navigator Deluxe continued to work like a dream. Though it no longer looks new, it still picks up pet hair, dust bunnies, dirt, and crumbs with ease. We love how it gently pulls forward like a self-propelled lawn mower, which makes cleaning feel effortless. The lightweight design and easy-to-empty dirt canister make this vacuum a reigning champ in the upright category.
After several months of regular use, the Shark Navigator Deluxe continued to work like a dream. Though it no longer looks new, it still picks up pet hair, dust bunnies, dirt, and crumbs with ease. We love how it gently pulls forward like a self-propelled lawn mower, which makes cleaning feel effortless. The lightweight design and easy-to-empty dirt canister make this vacuum a reigning champ in the upright category.
Weight:16 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:3.4 liters |Cord Length:25 feet |Attachments:Pet brush, duster, crevice tool, long-reach hose, floor brush nozzle
PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best Overall, Runner-UpKenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum$160$140 at AmazonStar QualitiesPowerful suction picks up large and fine particlesPerforms well on all surfaces and transitions easilySwivels smoothly under and around furnitureUseful attachments for furniture and cornersRed FlagsToo loud to hold a conversationDoesn’t take corners as well as othersIf you’re looking for avacuum that costs less than $200and still works great, this option from Kenmore also performed notably well in our tests. Its powerful suction was a champ on all surfaces, but its best work was on carpets and picking up fine powder from tile and hardwood. We also found it easy to maneuver. This vacuum transitioned smoothly from hard floors to carpet and rugs and went under and around furniture without issues.On account of the wide cleaning path, this vacuum didn’t take tight corners as well as other Kenmore models we tried, like theFeatherlite Lift-Up Upright Vacuum. However, we found the attachments handy for getting into crevices, nooks, and crannies. And while it’s too loud to hold a conversation while it’s running, this wasn’t a deal-breaker for us.How It’s Held UpAfter a few months of at-home testing, this vacuum performs just as well as it did on the first day. There hasn’t been any wear and tear on the vacuum, and the suction has remained consistent. Our tester primarily uses this model for deep cleans, and it sucks up dust bunnies, dog hair, and dirt with ease. “This is our go-to vacuum for our carpeted and rug areas,” they said.Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:2 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Upholstery tool, pet tool, rotating fan, 3-in-1 combo toolPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock
Best Overall, Runner-UpKenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum$160$140 at Amazon
Best Overall, Runner-UpKenmore Allergen Seal Bagless Upright Vacuum
$160$140 at Amazon
Star QualitiesPowerful suction picks up large and fine particlesPerforms well on all surfaces and transitions easilySwivels smoothly under and around furnitureUseful attachments for furniture and cornersRed FlagsToo loud to hold a conversationDoesn’t take corners as well as others
Star QualitiesPowerful suction picks up large and fine particlesPerforms well on all surfaces and transitions easilySwivels smoothly under and around furnitureUseful attachments for furniture and corners
Powerful suction picks up large and fine particles
Performs well on all surfaces and transitions easily
Swivels smoothly under and around furniture
Useful attachments for furniture and corners
Red FlagsToo loud to hold a conversationDoesn’t take corners as well as others
Too loud to hold a conversation
Doesn’t take corners as well as others
If you’re looking for avacuum that costs less than $200and still works great, this option from Kenmore also performed notably well in our tests. Its powerful suction was a champ on all surfaces, but its best work was on carpets and picking up fine powder from tile and hardwood. We also found it easy to maneuver. This vacuum transitioned smoothly from hard floors to carpet and rugs and went under and around furniture without issues.
On account of the wide cleaning path, this vacuum didn’t take tight corners as well as other Kenmore models we tried, like theFeatherlite Lift-Up Upright Vacuum. However, we found the attachments handy for getting into crevices, nooks, and crannies. And while it’s too loud to hold a conversation while it’s running, this wasn’t a deal-breaker for us.
How It’s Held UpAfter a few months of at-home testing, this vacuum performs just as well as it did on the first day. There hasn’t been any wear and tear on the vacuum, and the suction has remained consistent. Our tester primarily uses this model for deep cleans, and it sucks up dust bunnies, dog hair, and dirt with ease. “This is our go-to vacuum for our carpeted and rug areas,” they said.
After a few months of at-home testing, this vacuum performs just as well as it did on the first day. There hasn’t been any wear and tear on the vacuum, and the suction has remained consistent. Our tester primarily uses this model for deep cleans, and it sucks up dust bunnies, dog hair, and dirt with ease. “This is our go-to vacuum for our carpeted and rug areas,” they said.
Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:2 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Upholstery tool, pet tool, rotating fan, 3-in-1 combo tool
PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock
Best BudgetVacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$81 at AmazonStar QualitiesSuction power is comparable to more expensive optionsManeuvers smoothly around and under furnitureRelatively quiet and lightweight for upright modelRed FlagsPower cord is shorter than othersSuction is too strong for high-pile carpetOn a budget? The Vacmaster Respira won’t run you more than $60, and its performance is up to par with many pricier vacuums we tested. This upright vacuum has a powerful motor that effortlessly sucks up debris. We found it a good option for cleaning all types of flooring, except for high-pile carpet, as the suction is a little too strong in that the fibers can get caught.This vacuum maneuvers well under and around furniture. It was also relatively quiet compared to others we tested, like theShark Rotator Vacuum. And while it’s not as light as a stick vacuum, 11 pounds is pretty lightweight for an upright model. The 17-foot power cord is a bit short, but this may not be an issue when vacuuming smaller rooms or a studio apartment.How It’s Held UpOver the past few months, our tester has put this affordable vacuum through the wringer on some “truly messy stuff,” and it’s still working quite well. There are some things we would change about this vacuum, including a longer power cord, but otherwise, we have been pretty impressed for the price point.Weight:11 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:1.5 liters |Cord Length:17 feet |Attachments:3-in-1 combination toolPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock
Best BudgetVacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$81 at Amazon
Best BudgetVacmaster UC0501 Bagless Upright Vacuum
$81 at Amazon
Star QualitiesSuction power is comparable to more expensive optionsManeuvers smoothly around and under furnitureRelatively quiet and lightweight for upright modelRed FlagsPower cord is shorter than othersSuction is too strong for high-pile carpet
Star QualitiesSuction power is comparable to more expensive optionsManeuvers smoothly around and under furnitureRelatively quiet and lightweight for upright model
Suction power is comparable to more expensive options
Maneuvers smoothly around and under furniture
Relatively quiet and lightweight for upright model
Red FlagsPower cord is shorter than othersSuction is too strong for high-pile carpet
Power cord is shorter than others
Suction is too strong for high-pile carpet
On a budget? The Vacmaster Respira won’t run you more than $60, and its performance is up to par with many pricier vacuums we tested. This upright vacuum has a powerful motor that effortlessly sucks up debris. We found it a good option for cleaning all types of flooring, except for high-pile carpet, as the suction is a little too strong in that the fibers can get caught.
This vacuum maneuvers well under and around furniture. It was also relatively quiet compared to others we tested, like theShark Rotator Vacuum. And while it’s not as light as a stick vacuum, 11 pounds is pretty lightweight for an upright model. The 17-foot power cord is a bit short, but this may not be an issue when vacuuming smaller rooms or a studio apartment.
How It’s Held UpOver the past few months, our tester has put this affordable vacuum through the wringer on some “truly messy stuff,” and it’s still working quite well. There are some things we would change about this vacuum, including a longer power cord, but otherwise, we have been pretty impressed for the price point.
Over the past few months, our tester has put this affordable vacuum through the wringer on some “truly messy stuff,” and it’s still working quite well. There are some things we would change about this vacuum, including a longer power cord, but otherwise, we have been pretty impressed for the price point.
Weight:11 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:1.5 liters |Cord Length:17 feet |Attachments:3-in-1 combination tool
Best InvestmentDyson Ball Animal 3 ExtraPHOTO: Amazon$490 at Amazon$500 at Target$480 at Walmart
Best InvestmentDyson Ball Animal 3 Extra
$490 at Amazon$500 at Target$480 at Walmart
Offers powerful suction on hard floors and carpet
Extra-long power cord makes it ideal for large spaces
Red FlagsSetup is a bit confusingSomewhat heavy
Setup is a bit confusing
Somewhat heavy
Dyson vacuumsare always solid options for those willing to invest in higher-end models. We loved everything about this particular vacuum except for the initial setup. The directions have pictures showing how everything connects, but without written instructions, it just wasn’t intuitive.
Once you get this upright vacuum assembled, however, you’ll be impressed. This powerhouse appliance does excellent work on both hard floors and carpets — easily picking up dirt, coffee grounds, dry cereal, and hair — and transitioning smoothly between surfaces.
How It’s Held UpSix months later, we’re still loving the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra. It’s super easy to maintain, continues to run remarkably well, and looks as good as it did the day we pulled it out of the packaging. This vacuum is a workhorse in high-traffic areas, including carpeted floors, area rugs, and stairs, picking up all visible (and invisible) debris in its path. It’s proven to be an outstanding choice for households with shedding animals.
Six months later, we’re still loving the Dyson Ball Animal 3 Extra. It’s super easy to maintain, continues to run remarkably well, and looks as good as it did the day we pulled it out of the packaging. This vacuum is a workhorse in high-traffic areas, including carpeted floors, area rugs, and stairs, picking up all visible (and invisible) debris in its path. It’s proven to be an outstanding choice for households with shedding animals.
Weight:17.3 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:2.1 liters |Cord Length:35 feet |Attachments:Combination tool, stair tool, turbine tool, grooming tool
People / Rachel Marek
Best for Pet HairBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$176$135 at Amazon$176 at Target$135 at WalmartStar QualitiesReasonably priced and reliableSetup process was a breezeEasy-to-empty dustbinRed FlagsNo HEPA filterNot ideal for stairsIf you’re looking for a greatpet hair vacuum, we recommend the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind. This vacuum took almost no time to set up — all you have to do is pop on the handle. It performed really well on hard floors, particularly grouted tile, removing all the debris and hair during our tests. It also did an excellent job cleaning medium-pile rugs and carpets.While it’s easy to maneuver on flat surfaces, it’s somewhat heavy compared to a stick vacuum, which makes it a little harder to move up and down stairs. We tested a large group of vacuums for pet hair, but this Bissell model proved to be exceptional at picking up pet hair during our real-world tests.The CleanView Swivel is about average in terms of noise level, and emptying the dirt canister is an easy, mess-free process. This vacuum doesn’t have a HEPA filter, but considering the simple setup process and effective design, we think the lower-than-average price makes it worth buying.How It’s Held UpAfter six months of use, the CleanView Swivel Rewind looks and works just like new. It sucks up pet hair like it’s nothing, even on carpeted floors, steps, and other high-traffic areas. The suction is so strong, it can even vacuum up small Legos and loose change. Not only that, but the swivel head makes it easy to move around. The only thing to note is that emptying the dirt canister can sometimes be messy if you’re not careful.Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:1 liter |Cord Length:27 feet |Attachments:Dusting brush, crevice tool, motorized brushPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best for Pet HairBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$176$135 at Amazon$176 at Target$135 at Walmart
Best for Pet HairBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuum
$176$135 at Amazon$176 at Target$135 at Walmart
Star QualitiesReasonably priced and reliableSetup process was a breezeEasy-to-empty dustbinRed FlagsNo HEPA filterNot ideal for stairs
Star QualitiesReasonably priced and reliableSetup process was a breezeEasy-to-empty dustbin
Reasonably priced and reliable
Setup process was a breeze
Easy-to-empty dustbin
Red FlagsNo HEPA filterNot ideal for stairs
No HEPA filter
If you’re looking for a greatpet hair vacuum, we recommend the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind. This vacuum took almost no time to set up — all you have to do is pop on the handle. It performed really well on hard floors, particularly grouted tile, removing all the debris and hair during our tests. It also did an excellent job cleaning medium-pile rugs and carpets.
While it’s easy to maneuver on flat surfaces, it’s somewhat heavy compared to a stick vacuum, which makes it a little harder to move up and down stairs. We tested a large group of vacuums for pet hair, but this Bissell model proved to be exceptional at picking up pet hair during our real-world tests.
The CleanView Swivel is about average in terms of noise level, and emptying the dirt canister is an easy, mess-free process. This vacuum doesn’t have a HEPA filter, but considering the simple setup process and effective design, we think the lower-than-average price makes it worth buying.
How It’s Held UpAfter six months of use, the CleanView Swivel Rewind looks and works just like new. It sucks up pet hair like it’s nothing, even on carpeted floors, steps, and other high-traffic areas. The suction is so strong, it can even vacuum up small Legos and loose change. Not only that, but the swivel head makes it easy to move around. The only thing to note is that emptying the dirt canister can sometimes be messy if you’re not careful.
After six months of use, the CleanView Swivel Rewind looks and works just like new. It sucks up pet hair like it’s nothing, even on carpeted floors, steps, and other high-traffic areas. The suction is so strong, it can even vacuum up small Legos and loose change. Not only that, but the swivel head makes it easy to move around. The only thing to note is that emptying the dirt canister can sometimes be messy if you’re not careful.
Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:1 liter |Cord Length:27 feet |Attachments:Dusting brush, crevice tool, motorized brush
Best LightweightShark Rotator Professional Upright VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$300$200 at Amazon$221 at Walmart$200 at WayfairStar QualitiesEasy to set up without instructionsWorks well on all flooring surfaces and stairsComes with useful attachments for hard-to-reach areasRed FlagsCan be very loudSomewhat bulkyLightweight models are ideal, like the Shark Rotator, which weighs just over 14 pounds. This upright vacuum was incredibly simple to set up — we didn’t even need to look at the instructions to figure out how the parts snapped together. Though it’s not as compact as others we tried, which makes it harder to reach under furniture, we found it generally easy to maneuver, and the attachments worked well for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.The Shark Rotator sucked up everything in its path on all flooring surfaces and even stairs. The dirt cup is larger than most and a piece of cake to empty. This vacuum also has a HEPA filter to help clean your indoor air. While we wouldn’t call it budget-friendly, we think the price is reasonable, considering the high-quality, efficient design.Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:3.8 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Dusting brush, pet brush, wide pet tool, straight suction nozzlePHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: PEOPLE / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best LightweightShark Rotator Professional Upright VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$300$200 at Amazon$221 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair
Best LightweightShark Rotator Professional Upright Vacuum
$300$200 at Amazon$221 at Walmart$200 at Wayfair
Star QualitiesEasy to set up without instructionsWorks well on all flooring surfaces and stairsComes with useful attachments for hard-to-reach areasRed FlagsCan be very loudSomewhat bulky
Star QualitiesEasy to set up without instructionsWorks well on all flooring surfaces and stairsComes with useful attachments for hard-to-reach areas
Easy to set up without instructions
Works well on all flooring surfaces and stairs
Comes with useful attachments for hard-to-reach areas
Red FlagsCan be very loudSomewhat bulky
Can be very loud
Somewhat bulky
Lightweight models are ideal, like the Shark Rotator, which weighs just over 14 pounds. This upright vacuum was incredibly simple to set up — we didn’t even need to look at the instructions to figure out how the parts snapped together. Though it’s not as compact as others we tried, which makes it harder to reach under furniture, we found it generally easy to maneuver, and the attachments worked well for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
The Shark Rotator sucked up everything in its path on all flooring surfaces and even stairs. The dirt cup is larger than most and a piece of cake to empty. This vacuum also has a HEPA filter to help clean your indoor air. While we wouldn’t call it budget-friendly, we think the price is reasonable, considering the high-quality, efficient design.
Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:3.8 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Dusting brush, pet brush, wide pet tool, straight suction nozzle
PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: PEOPLE / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Easiest to ManeuverKenmore DU4080 Featherlite Lift-Up Bagless Upright Vacuum$150$130 at Amazon
Easiest to ManeuverKenmore DU4080 Featherlite Lift-Up Bagless Upright Vacuum
$150$130 at Amazon
Star QualitiesSelf-propelled head transitions smoothly between surfacesLightweight and easy to liftNarrow-ish cleaning path good for tight cornersSeparate dirt chambers limit dust exposure to indoor airRed FlagsBrush roll randomly stops spinning, even without tanglesNot as effective at suctioning fine debris from hard floors
Star QualitiesSelf-propelled head transitions smoothly between surfacesLightweight and easy to liftNarrow-ish cleaning path good for tight cornersSeparate dirt chambers limit dust exposure to indoor air
Self-propelled head transitions smoothly between surfaces
Lightweight and easy to lift
Narrow-ish cleaning path good for tight corners
Separate dirt chambers limit dust exposure to indoor air
Red FlagsBrush roll randomly stops spinning, even without tanglesNot as effective at suctioning fine debris from hard floors
Brush roll randomly stops spinning, even without tangles
Not as effective at suctioning fine debris from hard floors
The Kenmore Featherlite Lift-Up Vacuum was the easiest to maneuver out of those we tested. It transitioned smoothly to and from hard floors and carpet. There seemed to be a self-propelling action that pulled the base forward, so all we had to do was steer. At only 12 pounds and just over 10 inches wide, it’s also lightweight with a narrower cleaning path, which helps when moving it around and accessing tight corners.
This upright vacuum was most effective on carpet. The performance was decent on hard surfaces, too, but it wasn’t as good as theShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxeat sucking up finer debris. On that note, we liked that the dual-chamber dirt canister separates light debris from heavier particles. This means you can empty them separately and avoid unnecessarily exposing your indoor air to the dust.
How It’s Held UpAfter three months, our tester says it has the same reliable suction as their Kenmore canister vacuum and works well at getting dirt and debris out of carpet, rugs, and along stairs. It picks up everything from cobwebs and crumbs to pet hair and everyday dust and transitions nicely on various surfaces. “It picked up what our iRobot missed,” they said. A few noticeable cons: They had to regularly cut hair out of the brush roll, and it doesn’t come apart easily for cleaning purposes. Otherwise, it’s a great upright for its price point, and we’d still recommend it.
After three months, our tester says it has the same reliable suction as their Kenmore canister vacuum and works well at getting dirt and debris out of carpet, rugs, and along stairs. It picks up everything from cobwebs and crumbs to pet hair and everyday dust and transitions nicely on various surfaces. “It picked up what our iRobot missed,” they said. A few noticeable cons: They had to regularly cut hair out of the brush roll, and it doesn’t come apart easily for cleaning purposes. Otherwise, it’s a great upright for its price point, and we’d still recommend it.
Weight:12 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:1.5 liters |Cord Length:25 feet |Attachments:Upholstery tool, 3-in-1 combination tool
PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock
Best with HEPA FilterKenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$150 at AmazonStar QualitiesComes with several useful tools for furniture, counters, and tight cornersConvenient handheld attachment is perfect for stairs, shelves, and curtainsWorks well on all surfacesRed FlagsHair gets stuck in the filterWe also liked the Kenmore AllergenSeal Vacuum. As the name suggests, it leans on a HEPA filter to remove dust, dander, pollen, and other allergens from the air you breathe. This upright vacuum did an excellent job cleaning hard floors, grouted tile, and carpet. Though the main brush roll was hard to maneuver on stairs, the “Lift-Up” handheld attachment made it more doable.It comes with several other useful attachments, too. We loved how well the upholstery and crevice tools worked for cleaning furniture, and the pet tool is perfect for picking up hair. There’s also a dusting brush and a combination tool that removes dust, hair, and other debris from hard-to-reach places.This vacuum has a long 30-foot power cord and a decent-sized dirt cup. Emptying the canister is pretty easy, but hair can get caught in the filter, and you may have to get your hands dirty to dislodge it. All things considered, this is an effective mid-range vacuum cleaner that gets the job done.Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:2 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Combination tool, upholstery tool, crevice tool, pet tool, dusting brushPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best with HEPA FilterKenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$150 at Amazon
Best with HEPA FilterKenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up Vacuum
$150 at Amazon
Star QualitiesComes with several useful tools for furniture, counters, and tight cornersConvenient handheld attachment is perfect for stairs, shelves, and curtainsWorks well on all surfacesRed FlagsHair gets stuck in the filter
Star QualitiesComes with several useful tools for furniture, counters, and tight cornersConvenient handheld attachment is perfect for stairs, shelves, and curtainsWorks well on all surfaces
Comes with several useful tools for furniture, counters, and tight corners
Convenient handheld attachment is perfect for stairs, shelves, and curtains
Works well on all surfaces
Red FlagsHair gets stuck in the filter
Hair gets stuck in the filter
We also liked the Kenmore AllergenSeal Vacuum. As the name suggests, it leans on a HEPA filter to remove dust, dander, pollen, and other allergens from the air you breathe. This upright vacuum did an excellent job cleaning hard floors, grouted tile, and carpet. Though the main brush roll was hard to maneuver on stairs, the “Lift-Up” handheld attachment made it more doable.
It comes with several other useful attachments, too. We loved how well the upholstery and crevice tools worked for cleaning furniture, and the pet tool is perfect for picking up hair. There’s also a dusting brush and a combination tool that removes dust, hair, and other debris from hard-to-reach places.
This vacuum has a long 30-foot power cord and a decent-sized dirt cup. Emptying the canister is pretty easy, but hair can get caught in the filter, and you may have to get your hands dirty to dislodge it. All things considered, this is an effective mid-range vacuum cleaner that gets the job done.
Weight:14 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:2 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Combination tool, upholstery tool, crevice tool, pet tool, dusting brush
PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best BaggedKenmore Floor Care Elite Upright VacuumPHOTO: Walmart$320$300 at Amazon$330 at Wayfair$330 at Home DepotStar QualitiesHEPA filter helps eliminate allergens from the airEasy to maneuver with extra-long power cordHas two modes: floor and carpetRed FlagsHeavier than averageFor those who prefer traditional bagged over bagless designs, we recommend the Kenmore Floor Care Elite. It has two modes (floor and carpet) and did a good job of picking up virtually all the debris during our tests, including dried rice grains and hair. (The hair got caught in the rotator brush, but it was easy enough to remove with scissors.) It also has a HEPA filter that helps eliminate allergens from your air.The Kenmore Floor Care Elite moves around with ease and has an extra-long 35-foot power cord. Instead of a reusable canister, this upright vacuum uses disposable bags. While changing them out is a simple process, we should note it’s an added expense. Weighing over 21 pounds, this is one of the heavier vacuums we tested, so it’s not the best for cleaning stairs. But in the end, we were satisfied with its performance and think it’s reasonably priced.Weight:21 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:N/A |Cord Length:35 feet |Attachments:Dust brush, crevice tool, bare floor tool, extension wandPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best BaggedKenmore Floor Care Elite Upright VacuumPHOTO: Walmart$320$300 at Amazon$330 at Wayfair$330 at Home Depot
Best BaggedKenmore Floor Care Elite Upright Vacuum
PHOTO: Walmart
$320$300 at Amazon$330 at Wayfair$330 at Home Depot
Star QualitiesHEPA filter helps eliminate allergens from the airEasy to maneuver with extra-long power cordHas two modes: floor and carpetRed FlagsHeavier than average
Star QualitiesHEPA filter helps eliminate allergens from the airEasy to maneuver with extra-long power cordHas two modes: floor and carpet
HEPA filter helps eliminate allergens from the air
Easy to maneuver with extra-long power cord
Has two modes: floor and carpet
Red FlagsHeavier than average
Heavier than average
For those who prefer traditional bagged over bagless designs, we recommend the Kenmore Floor Care Elite. It has two modes (floor and carpet) and did a good job of picking up virtually all the debris during our tests, including dried rice grains and hair. (The hair got caught in the rotator brush, but it was easy enough to remove with scissors.) It also has a HEPA filter that helps eliminate allergens from your air.
The Kenmore Floor Care Elite moves around with ease and has an extra-long 35-foot power cord. Instead of a reusable canister, this upright vacuum uses disposable bags. While changing them out is a simple process, we should note it’s an added expense. Weighing over 21 pounds, this is one of the heavier vacuums we tested, so it’s not the best for cleaning stairs. But in the end, we were satisfied with its performance and think it’s reasonably priced.
Weight:21 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:N/A |Cord Length:35 feet |Attachments:Dust brush, crevice tool, bare floor tool, extension wand
PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Dera BurresonPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Dera Burreson
Best BaglessShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$319$269 at Amazon$285 at Walmart$450 at Best BuyStar QualitiesPowerful suction picks up all types of debrisEasy to maneuver with smooth surface transitionsSwitches to handheld for shelves, counters, and furnitureRed FlagsSomewhat loudThis upright Shark vacuum is extremely powerful and easy to use. It is exceptionally good at picking up all types of debris, though larger pieces like dried rice require a second pass. It works well on multiple types of flooring and transitions smoothly between surfaces.The pet and crevice tools come in handy when picking up hair and vacuuming upholstery. You can also detach the base and use it as ahandheld vacuumto clean shelves, countertops, curtains, or furniture.This vacuum is pretty loud, which isn’t surprising considering the powerful motor. We found it easy to maneuver, thanks to the long power cord, pivoting head, and smooth, self-propelled roller. It also has a large dirt canister and a built-in HEPA filter for removing dust and dander from your indoor air.Weight:16.4 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:3.8 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Pet tool, dust brush, pet power brushPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock
Best BaglessShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away VacuumPHOTO: Amazon$319$269 at Amazon$285 at Walmart$450 at Best Buy
Best BaglessShark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuum
$319$269 at Amazon$285 at Walmart$450 at Best Buy
Star QualitiesPowerful suction picks up all types of debrisEasy to maneuver with smooth surface transitionsSwitches to handheld for shelves, counters, and furnitureRed FlagsSomewhat loud
Star QualitiesPowerful suction picks up all types of debrisEasy to maneuver with smooth surface transitionsSwitches to handheld for shelves, counters, and furniture
Powerful suction picks up all types of debris
Easy to maneuver with smooth surface transitions
Switches to handheld for shelves, counters, and furniture
Red FlagsSomewhat loud
Somewhat loud
This upright Shark vacuum is extremely powerful and easy to use. It is exceptionally good at picking up all types of debris, though larger pieces like dried rice require a second pass. It works well on multiple types of flooring and transitions smoothly between surfaces.
The pet and crevice tools come in handy when picking up hair and vacuuming upholstery. You can also detach the base and use it as ahandheld vacuumto clean shelves, countertops, curtains, or furniture.
This vacuum is pretty loud, which isn’t surprising considering the powerful motor. We found it easy to maneuver, thanks to the long power cord, pivoting head, and smooth, self-propelled roller. It also has a large dirt canister and a built-in HEPA filter for removing dust and dander from your indoor air.
Weight:16.4 lbs. |Dustbin Capacity:3.8 liters |Cord Length:30 feet |Attachments:Pet tool, dust brush, pet power brush
PHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry WortockPHOTO: People / Henry Wortock
Upright vacuums are the most common type of vacuum cleaner due to their versatility and reliable suction power. As the name suggests, they stand upright and are operated from a handle on the top.Cordless stick vacuums(which we also tested) stand upright, but they’re usually much slimmer and lighter than traditional upright vacuums. This makes stick vacuums easy to maneuver and handy for accessing hard-to-reach areas. The main downside to cordless stick vacuums is that they run on batteries, so you have to recharge them after about 20 minutes of use.
Pay attention to the cord length when buying an upright vacuum. With this type of vacuum, power cords can be as long as 35 feet or closer to 15 feet. At the risk of stating the obvious, a longer cord means you can clean a larger space, like a great room, without having to pause and plug it into a different outlet.
Many of today’s upright vacuums are bagless, meaning they have a removable canister you empty each time it fills up with dirt. With a bagged model, you can easily replace the dust bags when they fill up. The bags also tend to be better at sealing in dust and other indoor allergens than a canister. But since you have to keep extras on hand, it’s an added expense and somewhat wasteful because you throw out the used bags.
“Most upright vacuums come with an assortment of attachments for upholstery and small crevices,” says Becnel. For instance, theKenmore AllergenSeal Lift-Up Upright Vacuumincludes a combination tool, upholstery tool, crevice tool, pet tool, and dusting brush. These interchangeable pieces make it easy to access hard-to-reach areas and clean surfaces other than floors, like furniture upholstery, curtains, orcar interiors.
Some of the best upright vacuums have built-in HEPA filters, like theShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe. “These are so important because they capture such a large amount of allergens in your home,” says Becnel.
HEPA stands for “high-efficiency particulate air.” As theEPA(U.S. Environmental Protection Agency) explains, these filters trap over 99.9 percent of dust, dander, pollen, mold, bacteria, and other microscopic particles floating around your indoor air.
After researching today’s best upright vacuums, we selected dozens of the highest-rated models to try firsthand. We performed four rounds of tests to evaluate the vacuums based on setup, effectiveness, maneuverability, portability, features, attachments, and long-term performance.
We awarded each upright vacuum a score for ease of setup, noise level, effectiveness, maneuverability, portability, ease of emptying, and value. With effectiveness accounting for roughly half the total score, those upright vacuums with the highest ratings were selected for this article.
People / Dera Burreson
Frequently Asked QuestionsThis is ultimately a matter of preference. Upright vacuums are generally more powerful, and since they usually plug into a wall, you can use them as long as you need to without worrying about the battery dying. Stick vacuums, on the other hand, are slimmer and lighter-weight, making them more portable and a little easier to maneuver. But most only run for about 20 minutes before needing to be recharged.In our tests, we found theShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuumto have the most powerful suction. It quickly and effortlessly sucks up all types of debris in one or two passes. TheDyson Ball Animal 3 Extraalso has impressive suction power, though it’s a more expensive option.According to our tests, theKenmore Featherlite Lift-Up Vacuumand theShark Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuumare the easiest upright vacuums to push, even on medium- and high-pile carpets. We also found theBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuumeasy to maneuver on flat surfaces, though it was a little cumbersome when cleaning stairs.
This is ultimately a matter of preference. Upright vacuums are generally more powerful, and since they usually plug into a wall, you can use them as long as you need to without worrying about the battery dying. Stick vacuums, on the other hand, are slimmer and lighter-weight, making them more portable and a little easier to maneuver. But most only run for about 20 minutes before needing to be recharged.
In our tests, we found theShark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuumto have the most powerful suction. It quickly and effortlessly sucks up all types of debris in one or two passes. TheDyson Ball Animal 3 Extraalso has impressive suction power, though it’s a more expensive option.
According to our tests, theKenmore Featherlite Lift-Up Vacuumand theShark Vertex Powered Lift-Away Vacuumare the easiest upright vacuums to push, even on medium- and high-pile carpets. We also found theBissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Reach Vacuumeasy to maneuver on flat surfaces, though it was a little cumbersome when cleaning stairs.
Theresa Hollandis a writer for PEOPLE. In compiling this list of the best upright vacuum cleaners, she drew on the experiences of our team of product testers and countless online user reviews. PEOPLE has tested over 300 vacuums, fromrobot vacuumsandhandheld vacuumstocanister vacuumsandpet hair eliminators. We test in the PEOPLE lab and our own homes, putting each vacuum up against a series of tests. For this particular article, we put these upright vacuums through multiple rounds of lab testing, including using them at home for an additional six months.
Our Expert PanelHailey Becnelis a cleaning expert who shares her expertise on social media. She frequently shares her favorite cleaning products and tips for a sparkling home.
Hailey Becnelis a cleaning expert who shares her expertise on social media. She frequently shares her favorite cleaning products and tips for a sparkling home.
We created thePEOPLE Tested seal of approvalto help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.
In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.
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