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When it comes to keeping your house clean, a reliable vacuum is a must. Vacuums are the quickest and easiest way to tackle dust bunnies, stubborn pet hair, and debris that collect in hidden corners. But not just any vacuum will do.
Finding the right vacuum is often overwhelming when you're faced with sifting through dozens of upright models, robot vacuums, and more. A vacuum is a big investment, and an uninformed purchase often leads to disappointment if your choice turns out to be too heavy, too cumbersome, or not powerful enough. Plus, you want to pay for features you need without overspending on extras you'll never use.
In this guide, we considered upright, cordless, canister, and robotic options from trusted brands, and evaluated them based on research and rigorous testing. We broke down key factors related to functionality, features, and maintenance to help you find the best vacuum, whether you need a pet-friendly option, one that's powerful enough to clean up after kids, or a budget-friendly model.
Best Vacuums
Best Budget: Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum
Best Canister:Miele Classic C1 Turbo Team Bagged Canister Vacuum
Best for Pets: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum
More Home Appliances: Best Vacuums for Hardwood Floors • Best Dryers • Best Clothes Steamers
How We Selected and Tested
To find the best vacuums for every home, we first gathered a lineup of models across a range of brands, price points, and features. We deliberately chose a mix of canister, upright, stick, and robot vacuums to help ensure our selections accommodate different living situations, flooring types, and cleaning needs.
We focused on criteria like performance, ease of use, and versatility. For meaningful results, we ran each vacuum through a series of real-world tests to simulate common messes they'd be likely to come across in everyday life. We tried them on multiple surfaces like low-pile carpet, thick shag rugs, hardwood flooring, and bare concrete, seeing how well the vacuum adjusted to different demands. This also helped us assess suction power and how well the brush roll adapted to each surface type.
For debris, we chose materials that mimic typical household spills, like crumbled potato chips, popcorn, coffee, and cereal. The different weight and sizes of rubbish gave us a realistic view of how effectively the vacuum could remove the mess.
We also conducted similar tests with the handheld portions and attachments of these vacuums, using crevice tools and motorized brushes on couch cushions, on upholstery, and in tight corners. We noted how easy the tools were to maneuver, and whether they still packed enough power even when detached from the main unit.
By running each vacuum through comprehensive tests, we were able to get a clear picture of their real-world performance, so we could find dependable models for everyday cleaning.
1) Shark AZ2002 Vertex Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
I love using an upright vacuum for heavy-duty cleaning, and the AZ2002 packs the punch you need for tackling messes on carpets, couches, and floors. This model has two brushes: a soft roller brush and a foam-paddled brush. These work in tandem to increase contact with flooring and rugs, and I think it gives the vacuum a significant boost compared to models with just one traditional brush roll. The AZ2002 successfully picked up cat litter, dirt, and crumbs on a textured area rug.
All the cleaning modes are accessible right on the handle, so I was able to swiftly transition between carpet and laminate flooring without having to stop my cleaning session. The LED headlights brought attention to any dirt and gunk I missed during my initial swipes, too.
The AZ2002 also easily converts from an upright to a motorized canister vacuum. I especially liked using this functionality with the powered pet brush for cleaning couch cushions, so I didn't have to haul the entire vacuum around. The hose and stick attachments extend to clean crevices and curtains, which I normally wouldn't be able to reach.
The vacuum is on the heavier side, weighing a little over 16 pounds, but because it functions as a canister vac, I'm not too upset about sacrificing a little portability.
- The self-cleaning brush roll reduces tangles
- Transitions easily from upright vacuum to canister to clean upholstery and in between couch cushions
- Anti-allergen technology is beneficial if you have pets or are sensitive to common household irritants
- Motorized pet brush picks up stubborn hair
- Floorhead has powerful suction
- It's heavy, so it might be a little more difficult to maneuver around furniture
2) Shark HV301 Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Stick Vacuum
I've had this vacuum from Shark for six years, and it has proved to be a reliable choice for apartments with hardwood, tile, area rugs, and two cats—so plenty of hair, litter, and dirt to go around.
I appreciate the Rocket for its lightweight build, convenient features, and usability. It transitions between hardwood and carpets using a switch right above the handle, and the base also detaches to become a handheld vacuum. The dustbin capacity is small, but that's not uncommon for a stick vacuum. I just empty the dustbin whenever it gets too full by using the quick-release button.
The Rocket is easy to move around and underneath furniture, and it comes with useful attachments like a crevice tool, upholstery tool, and anti-allergen dusting brush for sucking up fine particles. The only bump in the road I've come across over the years is when I had a really shaggy carpet—the brush roll would often stop rotating and I'd have to untangle any fibers that got stuck.
You don't get a ton of new tech with the Rocket, but I've found that it performs well on multiple surfaces. It also stores easily, and doesn't require any hands-on effort emptying a bag or figuring out how to pair the appliance with a compatible app.
- Vacuum works well on both hardwood and low-pile carpet
- Convertible handheld feature helps me clean smaller messes
- Dustbin empties with a quick-release button
- You might lose suction on high-pile carpet
3) Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum
The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser has a tangle-free brush roll, and even after using the vacuum on two large area rugs and hardwood floors, I didn't find any hair wrapped in the bristles. What I did find, however, was plenty of pet hair, dirt, and dander in the dustbin because the suction power is strong enough to agitate carpet fibers and pick up debris that might not be completely visible.
I use the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum on an everyday basis, so I was excited to see that this upright model comes with a dedicated pet hair attachment for the hose wand. I tried it on my couch cushions, and a couple pushes back and forth removed a majority of the mess. Plus, the canister detaches from the base so you can carry it around as you clean.
The vacuum only has two settings, plush carpet and low carpet/bare floor, so it isn't as versatile as other vacs for different floor types. But I liked being able to manually turn the brush roll on and off with a control switch on the base, which helped me tackle different cleaning tasks.
As a whole, this vacuum is a great option if you have pets. The combination canister-upright design adds maneuverability, and the attachments included are helpful for more intricate cleaning.
Full Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off Vacuum Review
- Pet hair attachment works well on couch cushions, and power is adjustable
- Agitated area rugs well enough to pick up hair and unseen dirt and dander
- There is storage on the vacuum for the attachments
- Even after vacuuming hardwood floors and area rugs, hair didn’t get trapped in the brush roll
- There are only two clean settings
4) Miele Classic C1 Turbo Team Bagged Canister Vacuum
When I think of canister vacuums, Miele comes to mind, and I'm willing to bet I'm not the only one. The brand is known for its powerful, well-designed canister vacuums, and the Classic C1 Turbo Team is, well, a classic.
It has six suction power settings, including options for hard floors, rugs, and even furniture. The floor head has a toggle switch that you can operate with your foot, switching between cleaning carpeting and hard floors easily.
The hose is long, which I found helpful because I didn't have to lug the entire vacuum around as I cleaned. The cord is retractable, and the hose is completely detachable, so the C1 stores easily in a closet or laundry room. There's also a removable component that holds the crevice tool and brushes.
The suction was impressive on low-pile carpets, but we wouldn't suggest using this model on dense, thick carpets. The floor head also often lost suction during our tests. I particularly liked using this vacuum on furniture—it glided across the seat cushions, and the attachments came in handy for cleaning in between cracks and seams.
This style of vacuum captures dirt and other messes in self-sealing dust bags, so you'll be able to clean for longer before needing to do any maintenance.
Full Miele Classic C1 Turbo Team Bagged Canister Vacuum Review
- Multiple suction settings for different types of floor and carpet
- The vacuum sits upright or lays flat
- The dust bags have a large capacity
- I like the retractable cord for keeping things organized when not in use
- It’s not designed for high-pile carpeting, so you could be better off with an upright vacuum depending on your needs
5) Roborock Qrevo Series QV 35A Robot Vacuum and Mop
It might seem like cleaning is my favorite thing to do, given how many vacuums I'm testing regularly, but even I need a bit of a break sometimes. The Roborock Qrevo Series QV 35A has automated the process for me, so my weekly deep cleans don't take nearly as long.
I have an 850 square foot apartment, and it took about 30 minutes for the vacuum to map out my entire home. It worked its way over thresholds, across varied floor types, and in tight spaces with ease. I was impressed by how well it differentiated between carpet and hard flooring, so I didn't have to worry about my area rugs getting wet during the mopping cycle.
It took 61 minutes for the QV 35A to vacuum my entire apartment. It worked around the perimeter first, and then moved in a zigzag pattern around the rest of the interior. There are a few different power options, and I ran it on turbo for most of the cleaning cycle because I have two pets. I felt like the suction power delivered, but it did kill the battery relatively quickly.
Mopping is equally as satisfying, and it took roughly half the time to do all my laminate floors. The QV 35A automatically refills and empties its water reservoir, so I don't really have to do anything besides turn it on and let it do its thing.
The robot vacuum attempted to work its way over the legs of my kitchen island chairs, and after a few tries, it got stuck. Obstacle avoidance was mostly accurate otherwise, but I had to manually add a no-go zone in the app so the vacuum avoids this spot in the future.
Full Roborock Qrevo Series QV 35A Robot Vacuum and Mop Review
- Mid-range suction works well on carpet, hardwood, and tile
- Sensors under the robot vacuum successfully differentiate between floor types
- Multifunctional dock self-empties and refills
- Companion app offers a lot of customization and features
- Obstacle avoidance isn't always accurate
6) Levoit LVAC-300 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Lauren Bongard
If a corded stick or upright vacuum isn't the best choice for your home cleaning needs, then check out the LVAC-300 from Levoit. It's a cordless stick vacuum that switches between hard floors, rugs, and tiles without skipping a beat or losing suction power. According to our tester, the vacuum uses three different modes to take on an array of cleaning jobs like picking up cat litter or fine dust, without spreading material around your floors.
It only weighs a little over six pounds so it's easy to lift and maneuver, and the vacuum lays completely flat for cleaning under furniture. The LED headlight on the floor head illuminates any lingering messes in areas with less visibility.
The LVAC-300 is designed with a five-stage HEPA filter with as much efficiency as an air purifier, and it's also washable and reusable. The dust container releases with the touch of a button, and it empties just as easily.
We're keen on the LVAC-300's handheld vacuum capability and the various attachments it comes with, like a mini motorized brush for couch cushions and beds, and a crevice tool that is slender enough for car seats. A minor inconvenience is that there's nowhere to store these accessories, which might occasionally interrupt your cleaning session if you have to change tools.
- Strong suction is good for carpets and upholstery
- LED headlight and ability to lay completely flat are features that stood out during testing
- Doubles as a powerful handheld vacuum
- Equipped with a 5-stage HEPA filtration system
- Vacuum is convenient to use, but it might lack the power needed for deeper cleans or thicker carpet
7) Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Trevor Raab
Dyson remains a top brand when it comes to cordless stick vacuums, and I've personally tested several of their latest models. The Gen5detect stood out to me because it offers 10 minutes more battery life when compared to the V15 Detect series we've previously tried, and that extra time goes a long way when you're reaching the tail end of a cleaning session.
The vacuum comes with a laser cleaner to illuminate hidden dirt, dust, and debris on hardwood floors, and this feature has proved to be very useful for me, even in well-lit rooms. The traditional-style cleaner head works well on carpet, and neither head feels lackluster in suction power.
The cordless-to-handheld structure is nice for going from longer cleaning sessions to quick or more detailed cleaning, and I like using the hair screw tool for removing pet fur from couches, cushions, and more. Better yet, there is a built-in dusting and crevice tool that is great for quick cleanups.
An LCD screen on the handheld portion shows what size of particles you're cleaning up in real time, along with battery levels and overall cleanliness status. The HEPA filtration is added peace of mind that you're getting a thorough clean.
My main gripe is that this model doesn't come with a trigger button to start and stop the vacuum like other Dyson's, which is a feature I missed during testing.
- Longer runtime than other Dyson models
- LCD screen display shows the amount of dust picked up with each clean
- HEPA filtration captures 99.99% of particles
- Vacuum head with laser illuminates hidden dirt and debris
- No trigger button for starting and stopping the vacuum
8) Shark PowerDetect Cordless Stick Vacuum
We recently added the Shark PowerDetect Cordless Stick Vacuum to our cleaning tool arsenal. It looks like something from the future, but it actually solves a lot of the problems cordless stick vacuums face in the present, namely when it comes to maneuverability and small-capacity dustbins.
The flexible center pole bends at a joint, which made it much easier for our tester to get under furniture and in tight spaces around his apartment. This vacuum uses detection technology to automatically adjust suction power based on the type of flooring and size of mess, so you don't have to change manually and potentially miss spills or hidden debris. The floor head light helped illuminate dirt better, too.
Another useful feature is the docking station. Once our tester was finished cleaning, he locked the vacuum back onto the base, and it automatically suctioned collected dirt, hair, and dust out of the main dustbin. This doesn't entirely offset the small dustbin capacity on the vacuum itself, but it's nice not having to manually empty the receptacle after every clean.
- Flexible hose is convenient for cleaning under furniture and hard-to-reach spaces
- Automatically adjusts suction based on level of debris and surface type
- Reduces overall cleaning time
- Small dustbin requires more frequent emptying
- Heavier than other cordless stick models we recommend
What to Consider
Types of Vacuums
Upright: Upright vacuums are arguably the most common type of full-size vacuum. They're convenient to operate since they stand up on their own and are often quite powerful. Since these models are typically bagless, you simply empty its dustbin when it gets full. This type of vacuum is best used for deep cleaning large, carpeted areas, but they tend to be heavier and less maneuverable.
Canister: The other type of full-size options are canister vacuums. They have wheeled components that house a bag or dustbin, and usually have a long hose or tube that connects to the body. They come with versatile attachments and vacuum heads for cleaning hardwood floors, stairs, or tight spaces that a regular vacuum can't access.
Trevor Raab
Stick: Stick vacuums have been gaining popularity in recent years, as they're lightweight and beneficial for everyday messes. These vacuums have a rigid tube that connects the dustbin to the vacuum head—hence, the name—and you don't have to bend over to use them. They're generally battery-powered, but they do have significantly smaller dustbins than full-size vacuums.
Robot: Robot vacuums have taken the world by storm over the past decade. These autonomous cleaning units navigate your home while avoiding obstacles as they go. While they don't provide the deepest clean, they're great for daily maintenance. Today's top robot vacuums often have a variety of other features, including self-emptying dustbins, smart connectivity, and even mopping abilities.
Trevor Raab
Handheld: Handheld vacuums are even smaller and lighter than stick vacuums, and they're mostly used for small tasks or cleaning tight or awkward areas like a car interior. A lot of today's vacuums convert from an upright or stick vacuum to handheld to save you from purchasing two separate units.
Corded vs. Cordless
Many vacuums are available in both corded and cordless models. Corded vacuums offer unlimited runtime, but require a nearby outlet. Cordless or battery-powered models are convenient to use, as you can just pick them up and start cleaning, but they have a limited runtime.
The best option for you depends on how you like to clean—do you vacuum your whole house in one go? If so, go for a corded model. Or do you normally clean one room at a time? Then a cordless option might work just fine for your needs.
Floor Type
Different vacuums are better suited for cleaning hard floors or carpeting, and some feature heads that raise or lower to meet the height of the surface you're vacuuming. If you have a combination of flooring types, you may want to look for a vacuum with multiple heads and attachments, too.
Brush Rolls
Vacuum brush rolls, or "beater bars," come in several different styles, and each is made for specific cleaning tasks and flooring. The most common types you'll see are bristle, soft, and tangle-free. Bristle rolls are designed with stiff, nylon bristles that are ideal for thick carpets because they lift dirt effectively. They are less optimal on delicate surfaces as their harsh structure causes scratches or other damage.
For hardwood floors, or homes with a mix of surfaces, a vacuum with a soft roll brush is what you need. They're gentle yet efficient, picking up fine particles without scattering. Tangle-free is best for pet owners, since they resist hair wrapping and are easier to maintain.
Some of today's vacuums feature dual brush rolls, or have detachable vacuum heads for adjusting to different situations.
Capacity and Maneuverability
Capacity refers to how much dust, dirt, and grime the vacuum is able to hold before the dustbin needs emptying. Bigger capacities are better for larger homes or heavy-duty cleaning, while smaller dustbins are better for compact spaces or low-lift tasks. Upright vacuums typically have a dustbin capacity of 0.75 liters or more, while stick vacs only hold a couple of quarts at a time.
Maneuverability determines how easily the vacuum navigates around furniture, corners, and other obstacles. Features like swivel steering, lightweight builds, and sturdy wheels all contribute to better control. Typically, vacuums with bigger capacity are more difficult to maneuver around, usually due to a combination of size and weight. Striking the right balance between capacity and maneuverability will help you find a vacuum that's both efficient and easy to handle.
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