Contents
The best small upright vacuum for most people is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, White/Silver, NV356E. It features powerful suction for both carpets and hard floors. The lift-away functionality allows you to clean above-floor areas easily. For those looking to save, the Bissell CleanView Compact offers strong suction but lacks some advanced features like the lift-away design.
Most buyers face the choice between powerful suction and maneuverability. The Shark Navigator offers both, while the Bissell Compact may struggle a bit with thicker carpets. This article helps you compare various options so you can find the best small upright vacuum that meets your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
Here are some of the best small upright vacuum options available today. We will compare their features, pros, and cons.
1. Editor’s Choice
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 is great for both carpets and hard floors. Its powerful suction lifts dirt and pet hair easily. You can detach the pod for cleaning stairs and furniture. It’s lightweight, making it easy to maneuver around your home.
Pros
Strong suction for various surfaces. Lightweight and easy to carry. Lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning.
Cons
Some users find the cord too short for larger spaces. It may be less effective on deep pile carpets.
This vacuum is great for pet owners and anyone with mixed flooring in their home.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum offers versatility and strong performance for home cleaning.
2. Best Design
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 vacuum is designed for powerful suction with less mess on hard floors. It has a special tech called scatter-free technology. This feature reduces how much dirt scatters during cleaning. The compact design makes it easy to store.
Pros
Compact and easy to store. Strong suction with scatter-free technology. Supports a good cause with every purchase.
Cons
The smaller size may not hold as much dirt as larger models. It might struggle with larger debris.
This vacuum is suitable for small apartments or homes with minimal storage space.
The Bissell CleanView Compact is effective and convenient for quick clean-ups.
3. Best Splurge
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 vacuum is designed for easy cleaning on all floors. It features a wide cleaning path to cover more ground. This vacuum is lightweight at only 10 lbs, which allows for easy handling. It also has a quick-release handle for above-floor tasks.
Pros
Wide cleaning path for faster cleaning. Lightweight and easy to maneuver. Good for cleaning both carpets and hard floors.
Cons
The smaller dust cup requires frequent emptying. It may lack some advanced features found in other models.
This vacuum works well for those who need an easy-to-use option for daily cleaning.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight vacuum is a solid choice for quick and efficient cleaning.
4. Best Value
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 in blue offers similar benefits as the white version. It has powerful suction that works well on different floor types. The lift-away feature allows for easy cleaning of stairs and furniture. It’s a good option for pet owners too.
Pros
Effective suction for various surfaces. Detachable pod for above-floor cleaning. Lightweight design for easy use.
Cons
Like the white model, the cord length may limit your cleaning range. It might be bulky for some users.
This vacuum is best for anyone looking for versatile cleaning options in their home.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away in blue is reliable and convenient for home cleaning.
5. Best Heavy-Duty
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 Vacuum is designed to be lightweight and easy to use. It has a detachable handle and comes with tools for upholstery and crevices. The 25-foot cord provides good reach for cleaning larger areas.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to maneuver. Comes with useful tools for various cleaning tasks. Good cord length for larger spaces.
Cons
The dust cup may fill up quickly. It may lack the suction power of more expensive models.
This vacuum is good for users seeking an affordable and straightforward cleaning solution.
The Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum is a practical choice for everyday 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 in lavender shares features with its other models. It provides strong suction for carpets and hard floors. The lift-away feature makes cleaning furniture and stairs easier. Its lightweight design also adds to its appeal.
Pros
Strong cleaning power on different surfaces. Convenient lift-away feature for above-floor tasks. Lightweight for easy handling.
Cons
The cord length can be limiting in larger homes. Some users may find it bulky.
This vacuum is suitable for pet owners and anyone needing a versatile cleaning tool.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away in lavender is a dependable vacuum for various cleaning needs.
7. Best Budget
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 vacuum is designed with pet owners in mind. It features automatic cord rewind for easy storage. The active extension wand helps reach hard areas. Its powerful suction cleans multiple surfaces effectively.
Pros
Automatic cord rewind for convenience. Designed specifically for pet hair. Powerful suction for different floor types.
Cons
It can be heavier than other compact models. The dust cup may need frequent emptying.
This vacuum is great for households with pets needing extra cleaning power.
The Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet vacuum is effective for pet hair and general cleaning.
8. Best Lightweight
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 vacuum is powerful and designed for easy use. It features a dynamic motor for lifting tough debris. The wide nozzle cleans more area quickly. It is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Pros
Powerful suction for tough messes. Wide nozzle for efficient cleaning. Lightweight and easy to use.
Cons
It may not have advanced features like others. The dust cup can fill up rapidly.
This vacuum is good for those needing a strong cleaner for various surfaces.
The Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed offers solid cleaning performance for everyday tasks.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
This table summarizes key features of the best small upright vacuum options. The columns show brand, model, weight, and unique features. Use this information to find the best small upright vacuum for your home.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Editor's Choice | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Best Design | BISSELL | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Splurge | Eureka | $62.98 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best Value | SharkNinja | $189.95 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet… | Best Heavy-Duty | 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 Budget | BISSELL | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Best Lightweight | 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 We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered information from trusted home appliance websites, manufacturer specifications, and customer reviews. This helped us compile accurate details about each vacuum model.
How we built this shortlist
We examined over 20 upright vacuum models, narrowing our list to the top contenders based on features, performance, and user feedback. Each selected product had to meet specific criteria, such as suction power and weight.
What we ruled out and why
We removed models that had low ratings or were too heavy for everyday use. Vacuums lacking essential features like HEPA filters were also eliminated from our shortlist.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We focused solely on research and did not assign any subjective scores or ratings.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly to reflect changes in availability and new model releases. We aim to keep our information current for readers.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is important for effective cleaning. Look for a vacuum with strong multi-surface suction that can handle both carpets and hard floors. Models with a minimum of 10-15 amps of motor power tend to perform well across different surfaces.
Weight and Maneuverability
Consider the weight of the vacuum for ease of use. A vacuum that weighs between 8-12 lbs is usually lightweight enough for most people. This makes it easier to carry up stairs or move around your home.
Filtration System
A good filtration system is important, especially if you have allergies. Look for vacuums with HEPA filters, which can trap small particles in the air. This is particularly beneficial for pet owners.
Attachments and Features
Check for useful attachments like crevice tools and upholstery brushes. These add-ons make cleaning tight spaces and furniture much easier. A detachable handle can also provide more flexibility in reaching higher areas.
Noise Level
Noise levels can vary among vacuum models. Aim for a vacuum that runs at around 70 dB or lower for a quieter cleaning experience. This is especially important if you have pets or young children.
How to Choose Upright Vacuums
Check Suction Power
For effective cleaning, choose a vacuum with strong suction power. Look for models that specify at least 100 air watts or 10 amps of motor power. This ensures it can tackle debris on carpets and hard floors.
Consider Weight
Weight impacts how easy it is to use your vacuum. Aim for a weight of 8-12 lbs for comfortable handling. This range usually allows you to move it easily, especially for above-floor cleaning.
Look for HEPA Filters
If you or your family have allergies, opt for vacuums with HEPA filters. These filters capture small allergens and improve air quality. Ensure the vacuum states it has a HEPA filtration system.
Evaluate Attachments
Think about what tools you might need. A vacuum with attachments like brushes and crevice tools can simplify cleaning tasks. Check if the model has a detachable handle for better access to hard-to-reach areas.
Noise Consideration
Noise can be a significant factor in choosing a vacuum. Look for vacuums that operate at 70 dB or lower for a quieter experience. This is especially useful in homes with pets or children.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best small upright vacuum for pet hair?
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is highly rated for pet hair. Its powerful suction effectively lifts hair from carpets and upholstery.
Are small upright vacuums effective?
Yes, small upright vacuums can be very effective. They offer strong suction and are easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
How much should I spend on a small upright vacuum?
Prices vary, but a good small upright vacuum typically ranges between $100 and $300. Consider features and durability when choosing.
Do small upright vacuums have good suction?
Most small upright vacuums have good suction. Look for models with at least 10 amps of power for effective cleaning.
How often should I clean my vacuum filters?
You should clean or replace your vacuum filters every 3-6 months. This helps maintain strong suction and air quality.
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:
- ENERGY STAR clothes washers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- ENERGY STAR clothes dryers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
About the author
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