Contents
- The Top 8
- Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
- 1. Editor’s Choice
- 2. Best for Beginners
- 3. Best Compact
- 4. Best Design
- 5. Best Premium
- 6. Best Heavy-Duty
- 7. Best Budget
- 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
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The Top 8
Top 8 Upright Vacuums Reviewed in Detail
Below, you will find detailed reviews of our top small upright vacuum picks.
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 lightweight and very versatile. You can detach the pod for cleaning stairs and furniture. It has strong suction for both carpets and hard floors.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to carry. Strong suction for different surfaces. Detachable pod for above-floor cleaning.
Cons
Some users report it can be noisy. The dust cup may need frequent emptying.
This vacuum suits pet owners and those with multiple floor types. It is great for quick cleaning.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum is a solid choice for efficient and convenient cleaning.
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.
BISSELL CleanView Compact vacuum is known for its powerful suction. It features scatter-free technology, which helps reduce mess when cleaning hard floors. This model is compact and easy to store.
Pros
Compact design, making it easy to store. Powerful suction on carpets and hard floors.
Cons
The cord may feel short for large spaces. The capacity of the dust cup is smaller than some models.
Great for apartment living or small homes. Ideal for quick, effective clean-ups.
The BISSELL CleanView Compact is an excellent vacuum for those needing convenience and effectiveness.
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 Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight vacuum is designed for easy maneuverability. It has a wide cleaning path to cover more area in less time. This model is also lightweight, making it easy to carry.
Pros
Wide cleaning path for efficiency. Lightweight design for easy use. Good suction on various surfaces.
Cons
The build quality may feel less sturdy. Not ideal for large debris like leaves.
Suitable for small homes and light cleaning tasks. Perfect for users who need something easy to handle.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is a practical choice for quick, everyday cleaning.
4. Best Design
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) is similar to the NV356E model but in a different color. It offers the same strong suction and detachable pod feature for above-floor cleaning.
Pros
Same powerful suction as other models. Lightweight and easy to use.
Cons
The color is just a cosmetic change; features are the same as NV356E. Dust cup needs frequent emptying.
Great for homes with pets and varied flooring. Ideal for those who prefer a stylish vacuum.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum in blue is another great option for effective cleaning.
5. Best Premium
Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors, Washable Filter, Crevice and Upholstery Tools, Detachable Handle, Lightweight, 1.7L…
- EASY MANEUVERABILITY: At only 8.4 lbs and with an 25-ft power cord, this lightweight vacuum cleaner for home offers easy movement and convenient clean-up.
- VERSATILE CLEANING: These household vacuum cleaners include upholstery and crevice tools to clean various surfaces and tight spaces, as well as a detachable handle
- LARGE CAPACITY DUST CUP: These vacuum cleaners for carpets and floors have a 1.7L dust cup that allows for longer cleaning without frequent emptying, and features a quick-release button for easy disposal of collected debris
- WASHABLE FILTER: This upright vacuum cleaner includes a washable filter for long-lasting performance and easy maintenance
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum is very lightweight. It has a detachable handle and tools for upholstery and crevices. This vacuum works on both carpets and hard floors.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to maneuver. Comes with useful tools for different surfaces.
Cons
Not as powerful as some other models. The cord may limit movement in larger spaces.
Best for users who need a simple, lightweight option. Good for small homes and quick cleans.
The Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum is a budget-friendly choice for light cleaning tasks.
6. Best Heavy-Duty
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) shares many features with its counterparts. It has strong suction and a convenient Lift-Away feature to clean various areas.
Pros
Lightweight and effective for many surfaces. Detachable pod for easy cleaning.
Cons
Similar to other Shark models, it may be noisy. The dust cup could fill up quickly.
Great for pet owners and anyone with diverse flooring. Suitable for quick cleaning sessions.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum in lavender is a stylish and effective cleaning tool.
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 features automatic cord rewind. It has strong suction and is designed for multi-surface cleaning. This makes it easy to store after use.
Pros
Automatic cord rewind for convenience. Strong suction for pet hair and dirt.
Cons
Slightly heavier than some other compact models. It may struggle with larger debris.
Perfect for homes with pets and mixed flooring. Good for users who want easy storage.
The BISSELL CleanView Rewind is a handy vacuum for those needing powerful suction and convenient features.
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 PowerSpeed Bagless Vacuum is lightweight and has a wide nozzle. This allows for fast cleaning of both carpets and hard floors. It is designed to handle various messes efficiently.
Pros
Lightweight design and easy to maneuver. Wide cleaning nozzle covers more area quickly.
Cons
Build quality may feel less durable. Not ideal for very large homes due to capacity.
Suitable for small to medium homes. Ideal for users looking for a lightweight cleaning solution.
The Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Vacuum offers convenience and efficiency for everyday cleaning needs.
Upright Vacuums Compared Side by Side
Check the comparison table below. It shows key features of each vacuum, like suction power and weight. Refer to the rows for quick insights based on small upright vacuum reviews.
| # | Product | Best for | Brand | Price | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | — | SharkNinja | $139.99 | Check |
| 2 | Bissell CleanView Compact | — | BISSELL | $49.99 | Check |
| 3 | Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight | — | Eureka | $62.98 | Check |
| 4 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | — | SharkNinja | $189.95 | Check |
| 5 | Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet… | — | Amazon | $56.68 | Check |
| 6 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum | — | SharkNinja | $179.99 | Check |
| 7 | Bissell CleanView Rewind Pet Bagless Vacuum with… | — | BISSELL | $89.99 | Check |
| 8 | Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner | — | 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
Our data comes from manufacturer specifications, user reviews, and expert analysis from trusted websites. We looked at over 30 small upright vacuums to ensure a solid understanding of the market.
How we built this shortlist
We selected the top eight models based on their features, user ratings, and overall performance. Each vacuum was evaluated for suction power, weight, and special features to meet a variety of needs.
What we ruled out and why
We removed vacuums that didn’t meet essential criteria such as weight limits or weak suction. Models with poor user feedback or lacking features like HEPA filters were also excluded.
What we did not do
We did not test any vacuums by hand. No lab measurements were taken, and we did not assign any scores. Our reviews are based solely on reliable sources and user experiences.
How often this page is updated
This page is updated regularly, at least every six months, to reflect new product releases and changes in user ratings. We monitor the market to keep information accurate and relevant.
What to look for
Suction Power
Suction power is key for effective cleaning. For small upright vacuums, look for at least 200 AW (air watts). Higher suction ensures dirt and pet hair are lifted from carpets and hard floors, making cleaning easier.
Weight
Consider the weight of the vacuum. A weight under 10 lbs is manageable for most users. Lightweight models are easier to carry up stairs or maneuver around tight spaces in your home.
Filtration System
A good filtration system helps trap allergens and dust. Look for HEPA filters if you have allergies. These filters capture tiny particles, improving air quality in your home.
Cord Length
Cord length matters for reach. A cord of at least 20 feet allows you to clean large areas without switching outlets. This saves time and effort during cleaning sessions.
Attachments and Tools
Attachments can enhance cleaning capabilities. Look for models with tools for upholstery and crevices. These tools help you clean various surfaces and get into hard-to-reach areas easily.
How to Choose Upright Vacuums
Identify Your Cleaning Needs
Determine what surfaces you will clean most often. If you have carpets, prioritize models with strong suction. For hard floors, a vacuum designed to reduce scatter will be beneficial.
Evaluate Storage Space
Consider where you will store the vacuum. If space is tight, choose a compact model that is easy to store. Look for vacuums that can stand upright and have a smaller footprint.
Check for Weight and Maneuverability
Look for a vacuum that is lightweight and easy to maneuver. Generally, vacuums under 10 lbs are manageable for most users. Easy handling makes cleaning less tiring.
Look for Additional Features
Extra features can enhance usability. Consider vacuums with detachable parts for above-floor cleaning. Features like automatic cord rewind or specialized pet hair tools can also add value.
Read Customer Reviews
Customer reviews provide real-world insights. Look for consistent feedback on performance and durability. Focus on reviews discussing long-term use to understand how a vacuum holds up.
Frequently asked questions
What are small upright vacuum reviews based on?
Small upright vacuum reviews are based on suction power, weight, filtration systems, and user feedback. They help you choose the right vacuum for your cleaning needs.
How heavy should a small upright vacuum be?
A small upright vacuum should ideally weigh less than 10 lbs. This weight is manageable for most users and allows for easy maneuverability.
What is the best filtration system for vacuums?
HEPA filters are the best for trapping allergens. They capture tiny particles, making them ideal for homes with allergy sufferers.
Can small upright vacuums clean both carpets and hard floors?
Yes, many small upright vacuums are designed for both carpets and hard floors. Look for models with strong suction and versatile brush rolls.
How often should I clean my vacuum filter?
Clean your vacuum filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage. Regular cleaning helps maintain suction power and prolongs the vacuum’s lifespan.
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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