Contents
Choosing from the best lightweight upright vacuum cleaners can be hard. The top pick is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, NV356E. It features powerful suction that cleans both carpets and hard floors with ease. The Bissell CleanView Compact is the best value pick. It gives up some suction power but is lighter and easier to handle.
The main tradeoff in this category is between suction power and weight. Some models have stronger suction but can be heavier, while others are lighter and easier to maneuver but may not clean as deeply. The rest of this page will help you explore options, features, and comparisons.
Paid links. We earn a commission from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Prices are pulled live from Amazon and change often. How this works
The Top 8
Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the best lightweight upright vacuum cleaners available today. Each one has its unique strengths, so you can find the right fit for your home.
1. Top Pick
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, White/Silver, NV356E
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hardwood floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum cleaner lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, and more—attach the dusting brush or crevice tool to clean dust and debris from upholstery, baseboards, curtains, blinds, and other surfaces.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction removes pet hair, dander, and debris from carpets, upholstery, and stairs—ideal for homes with pets.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps 99.9%* of dust and allergens**. *Based on ASTM F1977 (0.3 microns+), tested by IBR Laboratories per ASTM F1977-22 standard test method of a vacuum cleaner system, 2024. **Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hardwood floor vacuum mode with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- EXTRA-LARGE DUST CUP FOR EXTENDED CLEANING: 0.87L capacity supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Pet Power Brush, Dusting Brush, 8″ Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E offers great suction for both carpets and hard floors. Its lift-away feature lets you clean above-floor areas easily. It’s designed to remove dirt and pet hair effectively. This model is lightweight, making it good for daily cleaning tasks.
Pros
Strong suction for carpets and hard floors. Lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning. Lightweight design makes it easy to use.
Cons
The dust cup can fill up quickly. Some may find the cord length a bit short.
This vacuum suits pet owners well, especially those needing to clean stairs or furniture frequently.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV356E is a solid choice for those who need powerful cleaning and versatility.
2. Best Splurge
Bissell CleanView Compact, Powerful Suction & Extension Wand, 3508
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- POWERFUL SUCTION WITH SCATTER-FREE TECH. Engineered to capture messes on hard floors with less scatter and powerful suction on carpets. Enjoy a convenient, highperformance clean in one machine.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN. Weighing less than 8 pounds, this vacuum is easy to carry and store. Perfect for dorms, apartments, and small living spaces without sacrificing cleaning power.
- REMOVABLE EXTENSION WAND. Features a quick-release wand to easily clean abovefloor surfaces like curtains, upholstery, and baseboards. Tackle dirt and debris in tight spaces with ease.
- EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER. The bagless design allows for quick and mess-free emptying with the push of a button. Keep your hands clean and your home debris-free.
The Bissell CleanView Compact 3508 has strong suction with scatter-free technology. It captures dirt without spreading it around. This vacuum is light and easy to maneuver across different floor types.
Pros
Powerful suction with less scatter. Compact design for easy storage. Good for pet owners.
Cons
The size may limit its ability to clean large areas quickly. It may struggle with larger debris.
This vacuum works well for small apartments or homes where space is a concern.
The Bissell CleanView Compact 3508 is great for those who need a small but powerful vacuum.
3. Best Design
Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE5
- POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION: The Eureka NEU10AE5 upright vacuum cleaner effortlessly extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets ease. The 10.5” wide cleaning path of this household vacuum cleaner helps cleaning larger areas quickly and with ease.
- QUICK RELEASE HANDLE FOR ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING: This upright vacuum cleaner best rated have crevice tool and dusting brush which can be attached to the end of the handle for cleaning upholstery, windows and other hard to reach places.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, this small vacuum cleaner can be carried anywhere with ease, while its compact and featherweight design allows this bagless vacuum cleaner to be stored in any space in your home when not in use.
- EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIROMENTAL FRIENDLY: This vacuum cleaner pet hair contains washable filter which can be rinsed and left to dry for no maintenance costs. Use our vacuum upright to embrace eco-friendly cleaning without compromising on effectiveness.
- ALL TOOLS ON BOARD: This vacuum cleaner for home pets includes a crevice tool and dusting brush which snaps on the vacuum and are within reach at any time during cleaning. Simplify your cleaning routine while maximizing convenience with our upright vacuum cleaner best rated.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight NEU10AE5 is easy to use and has a wide cleaning path. It picks up dirt and hair from carpets and hard floors effectively. This vacuum is designed for quick cleaning.
Pros
Wide cleaning path for faster cleaning. Lightweight for easy handling. Good suction on various surfaces.
Cons
May not have as many features as other cleaners. The filter may need frequent cleaning.
This model is ideal for busy households needing a fast and efficient cleaning solution.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight NEU10AE5 combines ease of use with good performance.
4. Most Versatile
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Carpet and Pet Hair, Blue, NV360
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hardwood floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum cleaner lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, and more—attach the upholstery or crevice tools to clean dust and debris from baseboards, curtains, blinds, tight spaces and other surfaces.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction and a specialized upholstery tool removes pet hair from carpets, furniture, and stairs with ease—ideal for homes with pets and everyday messes.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps dust and allergens* inside the vacuum, helping deliver a cleaner home environment. *Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hardwood floor vacuum mode with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 0.9-quart dust cup supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum, Upholstery Tool, Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV360 features similar power to the NV356E. It also has a lift-away feature for cleaning above floors. This model is lightweight and effective at removing dirt and pet hair.
Pros
High suction power for all surfaces. Easy to detach for above-floor cleaning. Lightweight and easy to move.
Cons
The design may feel bulky to some users. Dust cup capacity could be larger.
It fits well in homes with pets that require regular cleaning on multiple surfaces.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum NV360 is an excellent choice for those needing reliable suction and versatility.
5. Best Budget
Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors, Washable Filter, Crevice and Upholstery Tools, Detachable Handle, Lightweight, 1.7L…
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: At only 8.4 lbs and with an 25-ft power cord, this lightweight vacuum cleaner for home offers easy movement and convenient clean-up.
- VERSATILE CLEANING: These household vacuum cleaners include upholstery and crevice tools to clean various surfaces and tight spaces, as well as a detachable handle
- LARGE CAPACITY DUST CUP: These vacuum cleaners for carpets and floors have a 1.7L dust cup that allows for longer cleaning without frequent emptying, and features a quick-release button for easy disposal of collected debris
- WASHABLE FILTER: This upright vacuum cleaner includes a washable filter for long-lasting performance and easy maintenance
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum is very lightweight at only 8.4 lbs. It includes tools for upholstery and crevice cleaning. The 25-foot power cord allows for easy movement around your home.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to maneuver. Versatile tools for different surfaces. Long power cord for convenience.
Cons
Some users may find suction weaker than other models. The dust cup can be small for bigger jobs.
This vacuum works well for people looking for a simple and lightweight vacuum for quick clean-ups.
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum is an affordable option for light cleaning needs.
6. Runner-Up
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, Lavender, NV352
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR CARPET & HARD FLOORS: Clean carpets and hard floors with strong multi-surface suction. This lightweight upright vacuum lifts dirt, debris, and pet hair for a complete home clean.
- LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY FOR ABOVE-FLOOR CLEANING: Detach the pod to clean stairs, furniture, upholstery, and more—attach the upholstery or crevice tools to clean dust and debris from baseboards, curtains, blinds, tight spaces and more.
- PERFECT FOR PET HAIR CLEANUP: Powerful suction and a wide upholstery tool removes pet hair from carpets, furniture, and stairs with ease—ideal for homes with pets and everyday messes.
- HEPA FILTER WITH ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL: Advanced HEPA vacuum technology traps dust and allergens* inside the vacuum, helping deliver a cleaner home environment. *Allergens refer to non-living matter.
- SWIVEL STEERING FOR EASY MANEUVERABILITY: Navigate tight spaces, corners, and around furniture with ease using smooth swivel steering for effortless control across floors.
- BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF FOR MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Instantly switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle hard floor cleaning with brushroll shutoff for optimized performance across surfaces.
- LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: 1.04L dust cup supports extended cleaning sessions. Easily remove and empty debris in seconds with this bagless upright vacuum cleaner—less frequent emptying for uninterrupted cleaning.
- WHAT’S INCLUDED: Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, Wide Upholstery Tool, 12″ Crevice Tool, and washable HEPA filter. Rinse filters under running water until clear and air dry for 24 hours before reinstalling. Do not wash in dishwasher or washing machine.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 combines powerful suction with a lift-away feature. This vacuum is suitable for carpets and hard floors. It effectively removes pet hair and is easy to handle.
Pros
Excellent suction on various surfaces. Convenient lift-away feature. Lightweight design enhances usability.
Cons
The dust cup may fill up quickly. Some parts may feel less durable.
This vacuum is ideal for pet owners needing a versatile and efficient cleaner.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 offers great features for everyday cleaning.
7. Best for Beginners
Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with Automatic Cord Rewind, Active Extension Wand for Hard-to-Reach Areas, Powerful Suction & Multi-Surface…
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- AUTOMATIC CORD REWIND FOR EASY STORAGE. Enjoy hassle-free cleanup with the automatic cord rewind feature. With a simple touch, the 25-foot power cord wraps itself for quick and convenient storage.
- MULTI-SURFACE SCATTER-FREE CLEANING. Confidently clean hard floors with technology designed to capture messes rather than scattering them, ensuring a thorough clean across all floor types.
- ONEPASS CLEANING TECHNOLOGY. Engineered with a unique brush design and powerful suction to clean carpets effectively on the very first pass, saving you time and effort during your cleaning routine.
- ACTIVE EXTENSION WAND & TURBOBRUSH. Reach up to 10 feet to tackle messes in hardto-reach spaces. Includes a TurboBrush tool specifically designed for removing pet hair from stairs and upholstery.
The Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum 3534 features automatic cord rewind. This makes storage simple and quick. It offers strong suction and works well on multiple surfaces.
Pros
Automatic cord rewind for easy storage. Strong suction for pet hair. Works well on hard floors and carpets.
Cons
Can be heavier compared to other models. The size might be cumbersome for some users.
This vacuum is suited for pet owners who need powerful cleaning with easy storage options.
The Bissell CleanView Rewind 3534 is a great vacuum for those needing effective pet hair removal and storage convenience.
8. Best Value
Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Purple
- Powerful vacuum cleaner The dynamic motor and brush roll can lift stubborn and heavy debris Plus the 12 6” wide nozzle cleans more with a quickness.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- 10 lbs light weight upright vacuum The Eureka Power Speed is pretty lightweight and easy to maneuvre Designed for whole home clean
- 5 height adjustments It works well on carpet shag rug hard floors, etc. Smooth wheels ensure hardwood floors won’t sustain scratches or gouges
- 4.1L extra-large capacity the extra-large dust cup holds more dirt and requires less frequent emptying Clean more empty less
- Multiple accessories included a quick-release handle connected to the stretch hose for above-floor cleaning A 7-inch-long crevice tool, dusting brush and upholstery tool help clean hard-to-reach areas Extract dirt, pet hair freshen up your car curtains ceilings or door frames For your convenience they are all stored right on board
The Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Vacuum is lightweight and powerful. It has a wide nozzle for efficient cleaning. This vacuum is designed for cleaning both hard floors and carpets easily.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to move. Wide nozzle for faster cleaning. Good suction power for various surfaces.
Cons
The design may not be as sturdy as some competitors. The filter may require regular maintenance.
This vacuum is a good choice for those needing a lightweight cleaner for daily use.
The Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed is an effective vacuum for those wanting a mix of power and portability.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
The table below shows the best lightweight upright vacuum cleaners. Columns include brand, model, weight, and key features. Look for the rows that match your cleaning needs and preferences.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Top Pick | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Best Splurge | BISSELL | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Design | Eureka | $62.98 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Most Versatile | SharkNinja | $189.95 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet… | Best Budget | Amazon | $56.68 | Check |
| 6 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Runner-Up | SharkNinja | $179.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with… | Best for Beginners | BISSELL | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Best Value | Eureka | $75.97 | Check |
| 9 | Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaners | — | Eureka | $78.97 | Check |
| 10 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | — | Eureka | $68.44 | Check |
Prices come from Amazon and change often. The price on Amazon at checkout is the one that applies.
How to Choose Upright Vacuums
Weight Matters
Look for a vacuum under 10 pounds. A lighter vacuum is easier to carry and move around your home. If you have stairs, a lightweight model will make cleaning much easier.
Suction Power
Check the suction specs for carpets versus hard floors. A vacuum with powerful suction on both surfaces will give you a thorough clean. A threshold of at least 200 AW (air watts) is good for homes with pets.
Cord Length
Consider the cord length for your space. A vacuum with at least a 25-foot cord allows you to clean larger areas without having to change outlets. A longer cord is convenient for big rooms.
Attachments and Tools
Look for vacuums with various tools. Crevice tools and upholstery brushes help you clean different surfaces. A vacuum that includes these attachments will give you more cleaning options.
HEPA Filters
A HEPA filter can capture small particles and allergens. If you have allergies, choose a vacuum with a HEPA filter to improve the air quality in your home. It’s essential for homes with pets.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from multiple reputable sources, including user reviews and product specifications from major retailers. This ensures we have accurate and current information on each vacuum.
How we built this shortlist
We looked at over 20 lightweight upright vacuum models, comparing user ratings, features, and specifications. The top 8 were chosen based on performance, usability, and popularity.
What we ruled out and why
Models without essential features, like HEPA filters, were eliminated. We also removed vacuums with low user ratings or those weighing over 10 pounds. This focus helps you find the best lightweight options.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, nor were any lab measurements taken. All information is based on data collection and analysis of user feedback and specifications.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every three months. We monitor product changes and new releases to provide the most accurate and relevant information on lightweight upright vacuums.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best lightweight upright vacuum cleaners?
Some of the best lightweight upright vacuum cleaners include the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum and the Bissell CleanView Compact. These models offer powerful suction and user-friendly features.
How much do the best lightweight upright vacuum cleaners weigh?
The best lightweight upright vacuum cleaners typically weigh between 8 to 10 pounds. This weight range allows for easy maneuverability without sacrificing cleaning performance.
Do lightweight vacuums have good suction power?
Yes, many lightweight vacuums provide effective suction power. Look for models with at least 200 air watts for good performance on carpets and hard floors.
What features should I look for in a lightweight upright vacuum?
Consider features like a long power cord, HEPA filters, and useful attachments. These elements enhance cleaning efficiency and make your vacuum more versatile.
Can I use a lightweight vacuum for pet hair?
Yes, many lightweight vacuums are designed to handle pet hair effectively. Choose models specifically labeled for pet hair to ensure optimal performance.
What to look for
Cleaning Performance
Look for vacuums that offer strong suction across different surfaces. A good vacuum should clean carpets, hard floors, and upholstery well. Aim for models with powerful motors and specialized brush rolls for better dirt pickup.
Design and Ergonomics
Vacuum design affects comfort during use. A lightweight design with an ergonomic handle makes it easier to clean for longer periods. Check for vacuums that have adjustable heights or easy-to-access controls.
Noise Level
Consider how loud the vacuum is during operation. Some vacuums have noise reduction technology, which keeps noise levels lower. A quieter vacuum can make cleaning less disruptive, especially in homes with children or pets.
Storage Options
Think about where you will store your vacuum. Some models can be stored upright without taking much space. Others come with onboard storage for tools, making them easy to grab when needed.
Maintenance Requirements
Regular maintenance keeps your vacuum running well. Check for models with washable filters and easy-to-empty dust cups. These features reduce upkeep and ensure your vacuum stays efficient over time.
Shopping around? We have 34 more upright vacuum guides for other budgets and use cases.
Sources and standards
Background reading we checked while putting this guide together:
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
Similar guides
- 8 Best Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 8 Affordable Upright Vacuums in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 8 Cheapest Upright Vacuums in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 8 Budget Pool Cleaners in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 8 Best Carpet Cleaner Liquid in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
- 8 Best Wirecutter Best Stain Removers in 2026 Cleaning & Laundry
