Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for the Money
- 3. Runner-Up
- 4. Best Premium
- 5. Best Splurge
- 6. Best for Beginners
- 7. Best for Daily Use
- 8. Best for Small Spaces
- Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
- How We Reviewed
- What to look for
- How to Choose Upright Vacuums
- Frequently asked questions
Finding the best upright vacuum for the money is tricky. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, Pet Hair, White/Silver, NV356E is our top pick. It has powerful suction, capable of cleaning carpets and hard floors. For a more budget-friendly option, the Bissell CleanView Compact offers solid cleaning power while sacrificing some advanced features.
The main tradeoff for many buyers is between advanced features like lift-away functionality and a lower price point. This page will help you discover not only these two options but also others that suit your needs.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
Below are some of the best upright vacuums for the money. Each pick offers unique features that cater to various cleaning needs.
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, HEPA, Pet Hair, NV356E has strong suction for both carpets and hard floors. Its lightweight design makes it easy to move around. You can detach the pod for above-floor cleaning, which is great for stairs and furniture.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to carry. Strong suction for deep cleaning. Detachable pod for above-floor cleaning.
Cons
The dust cup can fill up quickly. Some users report it may be noisy.
Great for pet owners and anyone needing versatile cleaning options. Ideal if you clean multiple surfaces.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is a solid choice for home cleaning, especially with pets.
2. Best for the Money
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 features powerful suction that reduces scatter on hard floors. It also has an extension wand for hard-to-reach spots. This vacuum supports the Bissell Pet Foundation, so your purchase helps pets.
Pros
Compact and easy to store. Good suction on carpets and hard floors. Supports a charitable cause.
Cons
It can struggle with larger debris. The cord length may be limiting for some users.
Perfect for small spaces or apartments. Good for those who want an eco-friendly option.
The Bissell CleanView Compact offers great performance, especially for pet hair.
3. Runner-Up
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.
Eureka’s Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE5 is designed for all floor types. Its 10.5-inch cleaning path helps you clean large areas quickly. The quick-release handle allows you to reach above-floor areas easily.
Pros
Lightweight design for easy handling. Wide cleaning path saves time. Good suction on all surfaces.
Cons
The build quality can feel less sturdy. It may not handle heavy debris as well as others.
Ideal for those wanting a lightweight vacuum for quick clean-ups. Suitable for homes with mixed flooring.
The Eureka Airspeed is efficient and user-friendly, perfect for quick clean-ups.
4. Best Premium
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.
Another option from Shark is the Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, HEPA, NV360. Like its sibling, it has powerful suction for various surfaces. The lift-away feature lets you clean areas that are otherwise hard to reach.
Pros
Great suction power. Easy to detach for versatile cleaning. HEPA filter traps allergens.
Cons
It might be a bit heavier than some competitors. The dust container can be small for large homes.
Great for families with allergies. Perfect for cleaning stairs and upholstery.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360 excels in suction and versatility.
5. Best Splurge
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 lightweight at just 8.4 lbs. It features a 25-foot power cord for easy movement. Attachments like crevice tools help clean tight spaces effectively.
Pros
Affordable and lightweight. Versatile with useful attachments. Easy to maneuver around furniture.
Cons
The dust cup is smaller than average. Suction may not be as strong as premium brands.
Good for budget shoppers. Best for small to medium homes with basic cleaning needs.
The Amazon Basics vacuum is a budget-friendly choice for light cleaning tasks.
6. Best for Beginners
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 Upright Vacuum, HEPA, NV352 offers similar features to the other Shark models. It provides strong suction and includes the lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning.
Pros
Lightweight and powerful suction. HEPA filter reduces allergens. Versatile for various cleaning tasks.
Cons
Some users may find it bulky. The dust cup needs frequent emptying.
Ideal for pet owners and allergy sufferers. Excellent for homes needing frequent deep cleaning.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 is a great option for deep cleaning and allergy control.
7. Best for Daily Use
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 for easy storage. It has powerful suction for handling pet hair and other messes. The active extension wand is handy for cleaning hard-to-reach areas.
Pros
Automatic cord rewind feature is convenient. Great suction for pet hair. Easy to store.
Cons
It can be heavier compared to others. The dust bin may require frequent emptying.
Ideal for pet owners who want easy storage options. Suitable for homes with hard floors and carpets.
The Bissell CleanView Rewind is effective for pet owners seeking convenience and power.
8. Best for Small Spaces
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 is a bagless vacuum with a powerful motor. It has a wide nozzle for quicker cleaning. At 10 lbs, it’s lightweight and easy to use around the house.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to maneuver. Wide cleaning nozzle saves time. Good suction for both carpets and hard floors.
Cons
Build quality could be improved. It may struggle with larger debris like pet food.
Perfect for anyone needing a lightweight vacuum for regular cleaning. Good for homes with mixed surfaces.
The Eureka PowerSpeed is a reliable choice for those who want a lightweight, effective vacuum.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
The table below compares each product’s main features, including suction power, weight, and special functions. This information will help you find the best upright vacuum for the money that fits your cleaning tasks.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Editor's Choice | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Best for the Money | BISSELL | $69.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Runner-Up | Eureka | $69.91 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best Premium | SharkNinja | $149.99 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet… | Best Splurge | Amazon | $61.6 | Check |
| 6 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | Best for Beginners | SharkNinja | $129.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with… | Best for Daily Use | BISSELL | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Best for Small Spaces | Eureka | $75.97 | Check |
| 9 | Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaners | — | Eureka | $78.97 | Check |
| 10 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | — | Eureka | $49.88 | 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 sources, including customer reviews, expert articles, and manufacturer specifications. Our research focused on the most popular upright vacuums available in the market.
How we built this shortlist
From a pool of over 30 upright vacuums, we selected models that excelled in suction power, versatility, and user ratings. We prioritized those that provided good value for their features.
What we ruled out and why
We removed products with low user ratings or poor suction performance. Any vacuum that lacked necessary attachments for versatile cleaning was also excluded from our shortlist.
What we did not do
No product was tested by hand, and we did not conduct lab measurements. All scores and rankings are based on collected data and reviews from users.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated every three months. We check for new models and changes in user reviews to ensure you get the most current information.
What to look for
Suction Power
A vacuum’s suction power is important for effective cleaning. Look for a vacuum that provides strong suction for both carpets and hard floors. Models with adjustable suction settings allow you to optimize cleaning for various surfaces.
Weight and Maneuverability
Consider the weight of the vacuum and how easy it is to move around. Lightweight models, typically under 10 pounds, are easier to carry up stairs or between rooms. Check for features like a swivel head to improve maneuverability.
Filtration System
A good filtration system captures dust and allergens. Look for vacuums with HEPA filters, which trap 99.97% of particles. This is especially important if anyone in your home has allergies or asthma.
Attachments and Accessories
Attachments like crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery tools enhance cleaning versatility. Some models offer a detachable handle for above-floor cleaning, which is useful for furniture and stairs. Ensure your vacuum has the accessories you need.
Noise Level
Consider the noise level of the vacuum, especially if you have young children or pets. Look for models that advertise quieter operation. This aspect can make a big difference during cleaning sessions.
How to Choose Upright Vacuums
Assess Your Cleaning Needs
Think about the surfaces you will clean most often. If you have carpets and hard floors, choose a model that performs well on both. A vacuum with strong suction and versatile attachments works best for varied cleaning needs.
Look for Lightweight Options
A lightweight vacuum, ideally under 10 pounds, is easier to manage. If you need to carry it upstairs or move it between rooms frequently, prioritize models that are easy to lift and maneuver.
Check Filtration Quality
Select a vacuum with a good filtration system, especially if allergies are a concern. HEPA filters are best for trapping allergens. Check the specifications to ensure the model has high-quality filters.
Evaluate Attachments
Consider which attachments you may need. A vacuum with tools for upholstery, crevices, and dusting can make your cleaning more effective. Review what comes with each model to ensure you have what you need.
Consider Noise Level
Look for vacuums that operate quietly, especially if you have children or pets. Noise level is often listed in specifications. A quieter model can improve your cleaning experience.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best upright vacuum for the money?
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is often considered the best upright vacuum for the money due to its powerful suction and versatility.
How do I choose an upright vacuum?
Consider your cleaning needs, weight preferences, filtration quality, and necessary attachments. Each factor affects your overall satisfaction.
Are bagless vacuums better?
Bagless vacuums offer convenience since you don’t have to buy bags. However, they may require more frequent emptying and cleaning.
How often should I replace my vacuum filter?
Replace or clean your vacuum filter every 3 to 6 months. This helps maintain suction power and keeps allergens from circulating.
What is the average lifespan of an upright vacuum?
Most upright vacuums last about 5 to 10 years with proper care. Regular maintenance extends their lifespan significantly.
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 dryers ENERGY STAR (EPA/DOE)
- EPA Safer Choice U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
About the author
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