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Self propelled upright vacuum cleaner reviews can help you make a smart choice. The top pick is the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum, which features a powerful suction for both carpet and hard floors. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver around the house. The best value option is the Bissell CleanView Compact, which offers strong suction but lacks some advanced features like a lift-away function.
The main tradeoff here is between lightweight design and powerful suction. The Shark Navigator excels with its lift-away feature, making above-floor cleaning simple. You will find more details on comparing these models and others on this page.
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The Top 8
Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
Here are detailed reviews of the best self propelled upright vacuum cleaners.
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 is lightweight and versatile. It has strong suction for both carpets and hard floors. You can detach the pod for easy above-floor cleaning. This vacuum works well for pet hair removal too.
Pros
Lightweight design makes it easy to carry. Powerful suction cleans a variety of surfaces. Lift-away function allows for cleaning stairs and furniture.
Cons
The dust cup may need frequent emptying. Some users find it a bit noisy during use.
This vacuum is great for pet owners and families. It’s suitable for homes with both carpets and hard floors.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a solid choice for those seeking a reliable vacuum for different surfaces.
2. Best for Beginners
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 offers strong suction and a compact design. It has scatter-free technology to reduce mess on hard floors. This vacuum is also pet-friendly, supporting a good cause.
Pros
Compact size for easy storage. Powerful suction with features to reduce mess. Supports pet rescue efforts with every purchase.
Cons
The smaller size may not be as powerful for larger homes. It might struggle with heavy debris on carpets.
Ideal for small apartments or homes. Great for pet owners who want a reliable and compact cleaner.
The Bissell CleanView Compact is excellent for those needing a versatile vacuum with a focus on pet hair.
3. Best Lightweight
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 is designed for quick cleaning. It has a wide cleaning path to cover more area. This vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver.
Pros
Lightweight design for easy handling. Wide cleaning path speeds up cleaning time. Suitable for both carpets and hard floors.
Cons
The filter may need frequent changes to maintain performance. It can be less effective on large pet hair clumps.
Best for those who need a lightweight vacuum for quick clean-ups. Suitable for homes with mixed flooring.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is a practical choice for anyone wanting a fast and easy cleaning solution.
4. Best Budget
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 (Blue) has similar features to the white model. It cleans carpets and hard floors well. The detachable pod makes cleaning stairs easy.
Pros
Strong suction for diverse cleaning needs. Lift-away function is very convenient. Lightweight for easy transport.
Cons
Some users report issues with the cord length. The dust cup can be smaller than expected.
Great for users needing a reliable vacuum for various surfaces. Perfect for homes with pets.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a dependable choice for versatile cleaning around the home.
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 Bagless Vacuum is affordable and lightweight. It has a washable filter and various cleaning tools. The 25-foot cord provides good reach for cleaning larger areas.
Pros
Lightweight design allows for easy use. Includes tools for special cleaning tasks, like corners and upholstery. Bagless design simplifies maintenance.
Cons
Suction power may not match higher-end models. The dust cup requires regular emptying.
Suitable for budget-conscious buyers looking for basic cleaning features. Good for small homes and apartments.
The Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum is a great value for those needing a straightforward, efficient cleaning tool.
6. Best Splurge
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 (Lavender) is another great option. It offers the same excellent features as the other Shark models. Its design is appealing and functional.
Pros
Effective at lifting dirt and pet hair. Light enough for easy carrying. Detachable pod makes cleaning above-floor areas simple.
Cons
May have a short cord limiting reach. Some parts can feel less durable over time.
Good for anyone wanting a stylish yet effective vacuum. Works well in homes with pets and mixed surfaces.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away offers reliable cleaning with a nice design, perfect for various home needs.
7. Best Value
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 has powerful suction and a handy cord rewind feature. It cleans multiple surfaces and is also designed to tackle pet hair. This model is user-friendly.
Pros
Automatic cord rewind makes storage simple. Strong suction for effective cleaning. Supports pet rescue programs with each sale.
Cons
The vacuum might be heavier than some prefer. The design may be bulkier for tight spaces.
Great for pet owners looking for a powerful vacuum. Fits well in homes that require multi-surface cleaning.
The Bissell CleanView Rewind is a good choice for those needing a sturdy vacuum with pet-friendly features.
8. Best Design
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 powerful and lightweight. It has a wide nozzle to clean more area quickly. This vacuum is built for all floor types.
Pros
Dynamic motor lifts tough debris easily. Lightweight design for easy maneuvering around the house. Affordable option for many users.
Cons
Some may find the suction not as strong for heavy-duty cleaning. The design may feel less sturdy compared to pricier models.
Perfect for users who want a lightweight vacuum for whole-home cleaning. Suitable for homes with both carpets and hard floors.
The Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and effective vacuum cleaner.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
Use the table below to compare the specifications of different models. Each column shows key features like suction power, weight, and special functions. Those looking for self propelled upright vacuum cleaner reviews will find helpful insights in this comparison.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Top Pick | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | Best for Beginners | BISSELL | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | Best Lightweight | Eureka | $62.98 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | Best Budget | 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 | Best Splurge | SharkNinja | $179.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with… | Best Value | BISSELL | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Best Design | 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 data from top retail websites and manufacturer specifications. Our main sources include Amazon, manufacturer websites, and customer reviews. We reviewed over 20 different upright vacuum cleaners to find the best options.
How we built this shortlist
We focused on vacuums with self-propelling features and strong suction. Each vacuum had to have at least 200 positive reviews to qualify. The shortlisted products were selected for their balance of performance and user satisfaction.
What we ruled out and why
Models lacking self-propelling features were removed from the list. We also excluded any vacuum that had less than a 3-star average rating. Those that were too heavy or complicated were also ruled out.
What we did not do
No products were tested by hand, and no lab measurements were taken. We did not assign any scores, focusing instead on gathering factual information. The insights are based on data alone.
How often this page is updated
We review and update this page every three months. This ensures that the information remains relevant and accurate. We will include new models and remove outdated ones as needed.
How to Choose Upright Vacuums
Consider the Weight
When choosing a self propelled upright vacuum, weight matters. If a vacuum is too heavy, you may struggle to move it. A good rule is to aim for a vacuum under 10 lbs for easier handling.
Check Suction Power
Look for models with strong suction power for effective cleaning. A vacuum with at least 12 amps of power is usually effective on carpets and hard floors. This will help ensure all dirt and pet hair is lifted.
Look for Versatility
A vacuum with versatile features will make cleaning easier. Choose one with attachments for upholstery and crevice cleaning. This allows you to clean various surfaces in your home efficiently.
Evaluate Cord Length
A longer power cord can make cleaning larger areas easier. Aim for at least a 25-foot cord to reduce the need for outlet changes. This can save you time and effort during vacuuming.
Opt for Easy Maintenance
Choose a vacuum with washable filters and easy-to-empty dust bins. This feature will reduce ongoing costs and maintenance hassle. A vacuum that is simple to clean will last longer and work better.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is essential for effective cleaning. Look for vacuums with at least 12 amps for optimal performance. Higher suction power helps to lift dirt and debris from carpets and hard floors.
Weight
The weight of a vacuum can impact how easily you can maneuver it. A lighter model, under 10 lbs, is easier to carry up stairs. Heavier models may be more durable but can be hard to control.
Cord Length
Cord length plays a big role in how far you can clean without switching outlets. A vacuum with a longer cord, around 25 feet, allows for more freedom. This is especially helpful in larger homes.
Filtration System
A good filtration system captures allergens and dust. Look for HEPA filters as they trap small particles. This is especially important if anyone in your home has allergies.
Attachments and Features
Extra attachments can enhance a vacuum’s versatility. Look for models with tools for upholstery and crevices. These features can make cleaning various surfaces much easier.
Frequently asked questions
What is a self propelled upright vacuum cleaner?
A self propelled upright vacuum cleaner uses motorized wheels or other mechanisms to move itself forward. This makes it easier for you to push and maneuver while cleaning.
Are self propelled vacuums better for pet hair?
Yes, self propelled vacuums often have stronger suction and specialized brushes to tackle pet hair. This helps to remove hair from carpets and furniture more effectively.
How do I clean my self propelled vacuum?
Refer to the user manual for specific cleaning instructions. Generally, you will need to empty the dust bin, clean or replace filters, and check for clogs in the hose.
What should I look for in a self propelled vacuum?
Focus on suction power, weight, cord length, and additional features. Attachments can also make a big difference in how well it fits your needs.
Can I use a self propelled vacuum on hardwood floors?
Yes, many self propelled vacuums have settings for both carpet and hardwood floors. Look for models that specify they are safe for hard surfaces.
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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