Contents
The best upright vacuum under 300 is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, NV356E. This vacuum offers powerful suction for both carpets and hard floors, making it a strong choice for homes with pets. The lift-away feature allows you to detach the pod for cleaning stairs and furniture. For a great value option, the BISSELL CleanView Compact can tackle messes with powerful suction and a compact design, but it lacks the above-floor cleaning ability of our top pick.
A common tradeoff in this category is between strong suction and portability. The Shark model excels at suction, while the BISSELL is easier to carry. The rest of this page helps you understand more options in this budget-friendly range.
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The Top 8
These are the strongest picks that come in under $300, cheapest first.
Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
Here’s a closer look at each of our top picks.
1. Best Overall
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 Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, NV356E, is a powerful choice with its strong suction for carpets and hard floors. Its lift-away feature allows you to detach the pod, making it easier to clean stairs and furniture. This vacuum is lightweight, which adds to its efficiency. Compared to other models, it excels in suction power, making it the best overall option.
While the Shark Navigator is our top pick, the BISSELL CleanView Compact offers good suction at a lower price. However, it lacks the lift-away function. If you have pets or need to clean multiple surfaces, the Shark model is a better investment.
One limitation is that the Shark Navigator can be bulky when fully assembled. If you need a very compact model, consider alternatives like the Eureka NEU10AE5 that are lighter.
Pros
- Strong suction for carpets and hard floors
- Lightweight design for easy maneuverability
- Lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning
Cons
- Can be bulky when fully assembled
- Limited dust cup capacity for larger jobs
Best for: Homes with pets and multiple floor types. Not ideal for: Small apartments with limited storage space.
A reliable vacuum for serious home cleaning.
2. Best Value
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 BISSELL CleanView Compact is designed for powerful suction and convenience. It effectively captures dirt on both carpets and hard floors. This model also includes a lightweight design, which makes it easy to carry around your home. Compared to the Shark Navigator, it offers less suction power, but it is perfect for smaller spaces.
This vacuum features scatter-free technology, which minimizes mess when cleaning hard floors. This is a great trait for homes with pets or children. However, the lack of a lift-away feature limits its above-floor cleaning capabilities.
One honest limitation is that the compact size may not pick up larger debris effectively. If you usually deal with bigger messes, this might not be the best choice for you.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Powerful suction with scatter-free technology
- Designed specifically for pet messes
Cons
- No lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning
- Limited performance on larger debris
Best for: Small homes and pet owners. Not ideal for: Large homes with many carpets.
A perfect choice for everyday small messes.
3. Best Compact
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 NEU10AE5 is an ultra-lightweight vacuum made for all-floor cleaning. Its 10.5-inch cleaning path ensures quick coverage of larger areas. This vacuum stands out due to its lightweight design, making it easy to maneuver. However, it has less suction power compared to the Shark Navigator and BISSELL models.
This vacuum effectively picks up dirt and hair from both carpets and hard floors. The quick-release handle allows access for above-floor cleaning, which adds versatility. While its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, you might find it less powerful for heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
One downside is that the dust cup capacity is smaller than some others in this list. If you typically deal with larger messes, you may need to empty it more frequently.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight for easy handling
- Wide cleaning path for quick cleanups
- Quick-release handle for versatile cleaning
Cons
- Less suction power than competitors
- Smaller dust cup may require frequent emptying
Best for: Quick cleanups and smaller spaces. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
An excellent choice for lightweight convenience.
4. Best Design
Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE4
- Quick release handle for effortless above floor cleaning. Attach the crevice tool or dusting brush to the end of the handle for cleaning upholstery, windows and other hard to reach places.700.0 watts.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- Powerful all floor suction extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets ease. It’s 10.5” wide cleaning path gets the job done quickly
- Lightweight at only 7.7 pounds with its compact and featherweight design this vacuum can store in any space in your home and be carried anywhere
- Contains one washable filter which can be rinsed and left to dry for no maintenance costs
- Includes a crevice tool and dusting brush which snaps on the vacuum and are within reach at any time during cleaning
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, NV360, offers similar features to our top pick with a stylish design. The vacuum provides powerful suction across both carpets and hard floors. Its lift-away functionality allows for easy cleaning of furniture and stairs. Compared to the NV356E, this model is very similar in performance.
This vacuum features a HEPA filter, which traps allergens and improves air quality. This makes it a great choice for allergy sufferers. However, its design is slightly bulkier than the clean and minimal look of the NV356E.
One limitation is that both models can be difficult to store due to their size. If you have limited storage space, consider a more compact option.
Pros
- Stylish design with powerful suction
- HEPA filter for allergen capture
- Lift-away feature for above-floor cleaning
Cons
- Bulky design may be hard to store
- Similar performance to NV356E
Best for: Users who want a stylish vacuum. Not ideal for: Small spaces with limited storage.
A strong performer with an attractive design.
5. Best Budget
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 Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is an affordable option that does not compromise on performance. It features a detachable handle and tools for upholstery and crevices. Despite its budget-friendly nature, it provides convenient features for a variety of cleaning tasks. Compared to the Shark models, it is less powerful but great for light cleaning.
This vacuum is lightweight at just 8.4 pounds. It also has a 25-foot power cord, allowing for easy movement around the home. Although it may not have the same suction power, it still offers functionality for everyday use.
One downside is its less than ideal suction for heavy debris. If you have pets or need deep cleaning, consider a more powerful model.
Pros
- Lightweight at only 8.4 pounds
- 25-foot power cord for easy reach
- Includes crevice and upholstery tools
Cons
- Less powerful suction for heavy messes
- Limited dust cup capacity
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
A practical choice for light cleaning.
6. Best for Daily Use
Eureka Upright Vacuum Cleaners, PowerSpeed Lightweight, NEU280
- Upgraded Cyclone System: The Eureka PowerSpeed is now upgraded with new cyclone technology to handle larger debris, smaller dirt, and even microscopic dust.Specific uses:hard floor,carpet,dual action
- Powerful pick-up: Penetrates deep into the carpet to extract embedded dirt, dust, and debris.
- Lightweight: PowerSpeed does all the work while still remaining lightweight.
- 5 Height Settings: The PowerSpeed works well on carpets, shag rugs, and hard floors. Its wheels run smoothly on hardwood floors to prevent scratches or gouges.
- Multiple accessories included: A quick-release handle is 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, and pet hair, and freshen up your car, curtains, ceilings, or door frames. For your convenience, they are all stored right on board.
- Warning: When you use the vacuum cleaner, the floor brush may be clogged by hairs and dirts. We recommend cleaning the roller brush and the belt to remove the hairs and dirts every 2 weeks. If the roller and belt not cleaned for a long time, it may cause malfunction, and in some serious cases, there may be the risk of smoke and belt broken.
- Traps 99.9% of dust, dander and allergens
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum, NV352, is designed for pet owners and offers superior suction. It has similar features to the NV356E but comes in a stylish lavender color. This model is lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it suitable for various cleaning tasks. While it shares many strengths with other Shark models, it excels in pet hair removal.
The lift-away feature adds flexibility, allowing you to clean above the floor easily. Its HEPA filter captures allergens, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers as well. However, it does have a smaller dust cup compared to some competitors.
One limitation is that its smaller dust cup means it requires more frequent emptying. If you have a larger space or pets that shed a lot, consider a vacuum with a larger capacity.
Pros
- Great for pet hair removal
- Stylish lavender design
- HEPA filter for allergens
Cons
- Smaller dust cup capacity
- Requires frequent emptying
Best for: Pet owners needing a powerful vacuum. Not ideal for: Larger homes with frequent clean-ups.
A stylish choice for pet owners.
7. Best Premium
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 offers convenience with an automatic cord rewind feature. This model is designed for efficient cleaning with powerful suction and multi-surface capabilities. Compared to other vacuums, it is an excellent choice for homes with pets. The automatic cord feature makes it easy to store.
This model excels in capturing pet hair while being easy to maneuver. The extension wand allows access to hard-to-reach areas. While it performs well overall, it is heavier than some other models on this list.
A downside is its weight, which may make it harder to carry for some users. If you prefer a lighter model, consider options like the Eureka NEU10AE5 instead.
Pros
- Automatic cord rewind for easy storage
- Powerful suction for pet hair
- Multi-surface cleaning capabilities
Cons
- Heavier than other models
- Can be cumbersome for above-floor cleaning
Best for: Pet owners needing strong suction. Not ideal for: Users who want a lightweight vacuum.
A great option for pet owners who value convenience.
8. Best Lightweight
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 Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum is designed for users seeking a lightweight model. Weighing only 10 lbs, it offers ease of use without sacrificing suction power. This vacuum features a wide nozzle that helps clean large areas quickly, making it efficient for everyday use. In comparison to other models, it may have less suction but is still effective for general cleaning tasks.
This model is equipped with a dynamic motor and brush roll that lifts heavy debris from both carpets and hard floors. However, users might find that it struggles with deep cleaning tasks.
One limitation is that while it is lightweight, it may not perform as well on larger, stubborn messes. If you have a lot of heavy debris, consider other more powerful options.
Pros
- Lightweight at only 10 lbs
- Wide nozzle for quick cleaning
- Dynamic motor for effective debris lift
Cons
- May struggle with deep cleaning
- Less effective on larger debris
Best for: Users needing a lightweight vacuum. Not ideal for: Heavy-duty cleaning tasks.
A solid choice for lightweight usage.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
The comparison table below shows the best upright vacuum under 300 choices. Each column details different features. You can see how they align with your cleaning needs.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best Overall | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Best Value | BISSELL | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Compact | Eureka | $62.98 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best Design | 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 | Best for Daily Use | SharkNinja | $179.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with… | Best Premium | 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 to Choose Upright Vacuums
Suction Power
Look for at least 10 amps of power for strong suction. This helps clean deeply embedded dirt and pet hair. Many vacuums list their suction power in amps, so check that number before deciding.
Weight
Aim for a vacuum under 15 pounds if you want easy maneuverability. Heavier models can be harder to carry around your home, especially up and down stairs.
Cord Length
Choose a vacuum with at least a 25-foot cord for a wider cleaning range. Shorter cords may limit your cleaning area and require more outlet changes.
Filtration System
Select a vacuum with a HEPA filter to trap allergens. HEPA filters catch tiny particles and help improve air quality, especially for allergy sufferers.
Attachments
Look for extra tools for cleaning upholstery and tight spaces. These attachments can make a vacuum more versatile for different cleaning tasks.
How We Reviewed
Where our data comes from
We gathered data from reputable sources including manufacturer websites and customer reviews. We also looked at expert opinions to validate features and performance.
How we built this shortlist
We reviewed over 20 upright vacuum models under $300. We filtered them based on suction power, weight, and user ratings to find the top contenders.
What we ruled out and why
Models with less than 10 amps of power were excluded due to poor suction performance. We also removed any vacuums with significant negative customer feedback.
What we did not do
We did not test any vacuums by hand or take lab measurements. All data is based on manufacturer specs and user reviews to maintain objectivity.
How often this page is updated
This page will be updated quarterly to reflect any changes in product availability or specifications. New models will be reviewed and added as they come to market.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best upright vacuum under 300?
The best upright vacuum under 300 is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, NV356E. It offers strong suction and versatility with its lift-away feature.
Are lightweight vacuums less powerful?
Not necessarily. Many lightweight vacuums are designed with powerful motors. Always check the suction power to ensure effectiveness.
How often should I replace my vacuum cleaner?
Replace your vacuum cleaner every 5-7 years. Regular maintenance can extend its life, but older models may lose suction and effectiveness.
Do I need a HEPA filter?
If you have allergies, a HEPA filter is beneficial. It captures small particles and improves indoor air quality.
Can I use these vacuums on hardwood floors?
Yes, all of the vacuums listed can be used on hardwood floors. They offer settings to switch between carpet and hard floor cleaning.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is a key factor in vacuum performance. Look for models with at least 10 amps. Strong suction helps effectively lift dirt, dust, and pet hair from surfaces.
Filtration System
A good filtration system can make a big difference, especially for allergy sufferers. HEPA filters are highly recommended as they trap small particles efficiently, improving air quality.
Weight & Maneuverability
Consider the weight of the vacuum. Models under 15 pounds are easier to maneuver. This is especially important if you need to carry it up stairs or move it between rooms.
Cord Length
A longer cord means less hassle when cleaning large areas. Look for vacuums with cords longer than 25 feet to reduce the need for frequent outlet changes.
Attachments & Features
Attachments can enhance your vacuum’s versatility. Look for models that include tools for upholstery, crevices, and above-floor cleaning to tackle various tasks around your home.
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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