I’ve spent the last several weeks digging through specs, buyer reviews, and hands-on feedback to help you find the best vacuum cleaner to buy this year. Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, hard floors, or just want something that doesn’t weigh a ton, this list has you covered.
After comparing dozens of models from Shark, Bissell, and Eureka, one machine stood out above the rest: the Shark Navigator Lift-Away. It’s versatile, well-built, and handles both carpets and bare floors without breaking a sweat. Let’s walk through the picks so you can find the right fit for your home.
Comparison Chart of Best Vacuum Cleaner to Buy
| Product | Details | Rating | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
Editor’s Choice  | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum | ★★★★☆4.3/5 | |
Top Pick  | Bissell CleanView Upright Vacuum Active Extension | ★★★★☆4.4/5 | |
Best Budget  | Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum | ★★★★☆4.5/5 | |
| ★★★★☆4.4/5 | ||
| ★★★★☆4.3/5 | ||
| ★★★★☆4.4/5 | ||
| ★★★★☆4.2/5 |
List of Top 7 Best Vacuum Cleaner to Buy
I compared these models based on suction power, build quality, weight, maneuverability, and real-world feedback from thousands of buyers. Each one earned its spot for a specific reason. Whether you need something for a small apartment, a pet-filled home, or a mix of carpet and hard floors, there’s a match here.
Below are the list of products:
1. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away has been a top seller for years, and for good reason. It combines strong suction with a detachable pod that lets you clean stairs, upholstery, and above-floor areas without lugging the whole machine around. The HEPA filter traps allergens, and the brushroll shutoff means you can safely switch to hard floors.
Why I picked it
The Navigator Lift-Away hits the sweet spot between power and versatility. Its 0.9-quart dust cup is easy to empty, and the swivel steering makes it nimble around furniture. For a household that sees both carpet and bare floors, this is the most balanced option.
Key specs
- Weight: 12.5 pounds
- Dust cup capacity: 0.9 quarts
- Cord length: 25 feet
- Filtration: HEPA with washable foam and felt filters
- Brushroll: On/off switch for hard floors
Real-world experience
Aggregate buyer feedback consistently highlights how well this machine transitions from thick carpet to tile. The Lift-Away pod is a lifesaver for cleaning under beds or doing the stairs. Some users note that the hose can feel a bit short for very tall ceilings, but for most homes it’s plenty.
- HEPA filter traps 99.9% of dust mites and allergens
- Lift-Away pod makes stair and above-floor cleaning easy
- Brushroll shutoff protects delicate hard floors
- Swivel steering provides excellent maneuverability around furniture
- Dust cup is small at 0.9 quarts, needs frequent emptying
- Hose length could be longer for tall ceilings
- ✔ You want a single vacuum that handles both carpet and hard floors
- ✔ You have stairs or furniture that requires a portable pod
- ✔ Allergies are a concern and you need HEPA filtration
- ✖ You need a very large dust bin for a sprawling home
- ✖ You prefer a canister style for easier above-floor cleaning
2. Bissell CleanView Upright Vacuum Active Extension
The Bissell CleanView with Active Extension Wand packs a lot of suction into a budget-friendly package. Its 2-liter XL dirt tank means fewer trips to the trash, and the OnePass Technology is designed to clean carpets in a single pass. The extension wand reaches high corners and ceiling fans too.
Why I picked it
I wanted a model that offers great value without sacrificing suction. The CleanView’s Active Extension Wand is a real standout because it gives you above-floor cleaning without detaching anything. The large dirt tank also means you can clean a whole house without stopping to empty.
Key specs
- Weight: 16.5 pounds
- Dirt tank capacity: 2 liters
- Cord length: 25 feet
- Filtration: Washable filter
- Brushroll: Multi-surface with scatter-free technology
Real-world experience
Verified buyer reviews consistently praise this model for picking up embedded dirt from medium-pile carpets in one pass. The extension wand works well for ceiling fans and high shelves. Some users mention the vacuum is a bit heavier than expected, but the large tank offsets that inconvenience.
- Large 2-liter dirt tank reduces emptying frequency
- Active Extension Wand reaches high areas without detaching
- OnePass Technology cleans thoroughly on first pass
- Scatter-free tech prevents debris from blowing around on hard floors
- Heavier than some competitors at 16.5 pounds
- No HEPA filtration, basic washable filter
- ✔ You want a large dirt tank so you don’t have to empty often
- ✔ You need an integrated wand for cleaning high places
- ✔ Your home has mostly carpets that need deep cleaning
- ✖ You need a lightweight machine for carrying up and down stairs
- ✖ You require HEPA filtration for allergies
3. Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum
If you’re on a tight budget but still need to deal with pet hair, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is a steal. It has a triple-action brush roll that works on both carpets and hard floors, plus swivel steering that makes it easy to maneuver around furniture. The scatter-free technology keeps messes from flying around.
Why I picked it
This model delivers solid pet-hair pickup at a price that won’t break the bank. The swivel steering is especially helpful for navigating around chair legs and corners. The large capacity dirt tank is also a nice bonus for a budget machine.
Key specs
- Weight: 12.5 pounds
- Dirt tank capacity: 1.2 liters
- Cord length: 25 feet
- Filtration: Washable filter
- Brushroll: Triple action with scatter-free technology
Real-world experience
Aggregate user feedback highlights that this vacuum picks up pet hair from both carpets and hard floors effectively. The swivel steering makes it very agile. On the downside, some buyers report that the hose attachment could be longer, and the lack of a HEPA filter may be a concern for allergy sufferers.
- Excellent pet hair pickup on both carpet and hard floors
- Swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver around obstacles
- Scatter-free technology prevents debris from blowing around
- Very affordable for the features offered
- No HEPA filter, basic filtration
- Hose is relatively short, limiting reach
- ✔ You have pets and need a budget-friendly solution
- ✔ You want a vacuum that’s easy to steer around furniture
- ✔ You prefer a lightweight machine (12.5 lbs)
- ✖ You need HEPA-level filtration for allergies
- ✖ You have a large home and need a longer hose
4. Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Eureka PowerSpeed is a lightweight upright that still delivers strong suction. It’s designed for both carpets and hard floors, with five height settings to adjust for different pile depths. The washable filter saves you money on replacements, and the large dust cup holds plenty before needing a dump.
Why I picked it
Sometimes you just want a vacuum that doesn’t weigh a ton but still cleans well. The Eureka PowerSpeed weighs only about 10 pounds, making it ideal for quick cleanups. The five height settings let you go from low-pile to high-pile carpet without losing suction.
Key specs
- Weight: 10 pounds
- Dust cup capacity: 2.6 liters
- Cord length: 20 feet
- Filtration: Washable filter
- Height adjustment: 5 positions
Real-world experience
Buyer reviews frequently mention how easy this vacuum is to carry up and down stairs. The suction is strong enough for everyday messes, though some users note that the brushroll can be difficult to clean if hair wraps around it. The large dust cup is a welcome feature for a lightweight machine.
- Very lightweight at 10 pounds, great for stairs
- Large 2.6-liter dust cup reduces emptying frequency
- Multiple height adjustments for different carpet types
- Washable filter saves money on replacements
- Brushroll can get tangled with long hair
- No HEPA filtration, basic washable filter only
- ✔ You need an ultra-lightweight vacuum for quick cleaning
- ✔ You have multiple carpet heights to adjust for
- ✔ You want a large dust cup without a heavy machine
- ✖ You have long hair and don’t want to clean the brushroll often
- ✖ You need HEPA filtration for allergies
5. Eureka Vacuum Cleaners Home
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is a senior-friendly upright that weighs just 7.7 pounds. It’s designed for easy handling, with a low profile that fits under furniture. The included brush and crevice tool handle edges and upholstery, and the washable filter keeps maintenance simple.
Why I picked it
This is the lightest upright on the list, coming in at just 7.7 pounds. It’s designed for easy handling, especially for seniors or anyone with limited strength. The low profile lets you clean under furniture without bending.
Key specs
- Weight: 7.7 pounds
- Dust cup capacity: 0.5 liters
- Cord length: 20 feet
- Filtration: Washable filter
- Included tools: Brush and crevice tool
Real-world experience
Buyer feedback consistently mentions how easy this vacuum is to carry and maneuver. It works well on low-pile carpets and hard floors. Some users note that the small dust cup fills up quickly, and the suction is not as strong as heavier models.
For quick daily cleanups, though, it gets the job done.
- Extremely lightweight at 7.7 pounds, ideal for seniors
- Compact design fits under low furniture
- Washable filter keeps maintenance costs low
- Includes brush and crevice tool for edges
- Small dust cup requires frequent emptying
- Suction is weaker than full-size uprights
- ✔ You need the lightest possible vacuum for easy carrying
- ✔ You have low furniture and need a low profile
- ✔ You prefer a simple, no-fuss design
- ✖ You need deep cleaning power for thick carpets
- ✖ You have a large home and need a bigger dust cup
6. Bissell CleanView Compact Powerful Suction &
The Bissell CleanView Compact is built for small spaces like apartments and dorms. It packs the same OnePass technology as its bigger siblings but in a smaller, lighter frame. The removable extension wand helps with above-floor cleaning, and scatter-free technology keeps debris from shooting across hard floors.
Why I picked it
This is the best choice for tight living spaces. The compact design stores easily, and the lightweight build makes it easy to carry from room to room. The extension wand is a nice bonus for reaching ceiling corners and curtains.
Key specs
- Weight: 10.5 pounds
- Dirt tank capacity: 1.2 liters
- Cord length: 20 feet
- Filtration: Washable filter
- Features: Scatter-free technology, removable extension wand
Real-world experience
Aggregate reviews show that this vacuum is very popular among apartment dwellers. It cleans well on low-pile carpets and hard floors. Some users note that the suction is not as strong as larger models, and the cord could be longer.
For a small space, though, it’s a perfect fit.
- Compact size fits easily in small closets or dorms
- Removable extension wand for above-floor cleaning
- Scatter-free technology prevents debris from blowing around
- Lightweight at 10.5 pounds, easy to carry
- Suction is weaker than full-size uprights
- Short cord limits reach without switching outlets
- ✔ You live in an apartment or dorm with limited storage
- ✔ You need a vacuum that’s light and easy to carry
- ✔ You want scatter-free cleaning on hard floors
- ✖ You have a large home with thick carpets
- ✖ You need a long cord for fewer outlet changes
7. Eureka Whirlwind Bagless Canister Cleaner NEN110A
The Eureka Whirlwind is a lightweight canister vacuum that’s easy to pull around. It’s bagless, so you never need to buy replacement bags, and the washable filter keeps maintenance simple. The included crevice tool and dusting brush handle furniture and tight spaces.
Why I picked it
Canister vacuums are great for reaching under furniture and cleaning stairs without carrying the whole machine. The Whirlwind is one of the most affordable canister options out there, and it’s bagless, which saves you money over time.
Key specs
- Weight: 8.5 pounds
- Dust cup capacity: 0.5 liters
- Cord length: 15 feet
- Filtration: Washable filter
- Included tools: Crevice tool, dusting brush
Real-world experience
Buyer feedback shows that this vacuum is popular for quick cleanups and hard floors. It’s easy to pull around, and the canister design makes it easy to clean under furniture. Some users note that the suction is not as strong as upright models, and the short cord requires frequent outlet changes.
For a small apartment, it gets the job done.
- Canister design reaches under furniture easily
- Bagless and washable filter save on ongoing costs
- Lightweight at 8.5 pounds, easy to pull
- Includes crevice tool and dusting brush
- Suction is weaker than upright models
- Short cord limits reach without switching outlets
- ✔ You want a canister vacuum for under-furniture cleaning
- ✔ You prefer bagless convenience
- ✔ You need a very lightweight option
- ✖ You need strong suction for thick carpets
- ✖ You have a large home and need a longer cord
How I picked
I evaluated each vacuum on three benchmarks: suction performance on carpet and hard floor, ease of use (weight, maneuverability, cord length), and real-world durability based on aggregate buyer feedback. I cross-referenced manufacturer specifications with verified purchaser reviews to identify consistent praise and common complaints.
I deliberately did not test long-term durability beyond what buyer reports at the 6-month and 12-month mark reveal. I also didn’t test noise levels in a controlled environment, though I noted user mentions of noise where relevant. The goal was to find the best balance of cleaning power, convenience, and value for typical home use.
Buying guide — what actually matters for best vacuum cleaner to buy
What type of vacuum is best for your home?
Upright vacuums are the most common choice for carpeted homes because they offer strong suction and a wide cleaning path. Canister models are better for hard floors and under-furniture cleaning. If you have a mix of flooring, an upright with a brushroll shutoff (like the Shark Navigator) gives you the best of both worlds.
How much suction power do you really need?
Suction power is measured in air watts (AW) or amps, but those numbers don’t tell the whole story. A well-designed vacuum with 12 amps of current can outperform a 15-amp model with poor airflow. Look for models with direct-drive or brushless motors, as they tend to maintain suction better over time.
For most homes, 10, 12 amps is sufficient.
What about filtration?
If you have allergies, HEPA filtration is a must. A HEPA filter traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is one of the few models in this price range that includes a certified HEPA filter.
Other models use washable foam filters, which are cheaper but less effective for allergens.
How important is weight and maneuverability?
Weight matters a lot if you have stairs or need to carry the vacuum between floors. A lightweight model like the Eureka Airspeed (7.7 lbs) is ideal for seniors or anyone with mobility issues. Swivel steering also helps: the Bissell CleanView Swivel is a great example of how a well-designed swivel joint makes it easier to navigate around furniture.
What about dust cup capacity?
A larger dust cup means fewer trips to the trash. The Bissell CleanView Active Extension (2 liters) is the biggest on this list, while the Eureka canister (0.5 liters) fills up quickly. If you have a large home, prioritize a bigger bin.
For small apartments, a smaller cup is fine.
Do you need pet hair features?
Pet hair requires a vacuum with a brushroll that won’t get tangled easily. The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet has a triple-action brush roll designed for pet hair. The Shark Navigator also handles pet hair well, and its brushroll shutoff helps when switching to hard floors where pet hair tends to accumulate.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is a HEPA filter worth it for a vacuum?
Yes, if you have allergies or asthma. A HEPA filter captures microscopic particles that standard filters miss. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is the only model on this list with a certified HEPA filter.
If you don’t have allergies, a washable filter is fine and saves you money on replacements.
Can I use an upright vacuum on hard floors?
Yes, but you need a brushroll shutoff feature. Without it, the spinning brush can scatter debris and scratch delicate floors. The Shark Navigator has a brushroll shutoff, making it safe for hard floors.
The Bissell models use scatter-free technology to prevent debris from blowing around.
Which vacuum is best for pet hair?
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is specifically designed for pet hair with its triple-action brush roll. The Shark Navigator also performs well on pet hair, plus it has a HEPA filter that traps pet dander allergens. Both are good choices depending on your budget.
How often should I replace the filter?
Washable filters should be rinsed every 3, 6 months, depending on usage. HEPA filters typically need replacement every 6, 12 months. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific model.
The Shark Navigator’s HEPA filter is washable, extending its life.
What is the best vacuum for a small apartment?
The Bissell CleanView Compact is the best choice for small spaces. It’s lightweight, stores easily, and has a removable extension wand for above-floor cleaning. The Eureka Airspeed is also a good option if you want something even lighter.
Can I use a canister vacuum on stairs?
Yes, canister vacuums are excellent for stairs because the motor unit stays on the floor while you carry the wand and hose. The Eureka Whirlwind is a budget-friendly canister that works well for stairs and under furniture.
Final verdict
After reviewing all the options, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away stands out as the best overall for most homes. It balances strong suction, HEPA filtration, and the versatile Lift-Away pod. If you’re on a tighter budget, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet offers excellent pet hair pickup at a great price.
Affiliate disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes my recommendation, I only suggest gear I'd actually buy myself.
