13 Best Vacuum Cleaners for Every Situation. Are you looking for even more all-star cleaning and organizing items? Shop everything you’ll need to get your home gleaming in our Top-to-Bottom Spring Cleaning Toolkit for the season.
Vacuuming is only some people’s favorite household activity, but the best vacuum cleaners may make it a little less tedious and significantly easier. These handy devices come in several forms and styles, making them ideal for sucking up dust bunnies buried under your couch or cleaning your favorite area rug. Robot vacuums perform the work for you, while stick vacuums fit easily into tight corners; handheld models clean upholstery, and carpet cleaners target rugs, runners, and other items. While the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional, which doubles as an upright and portable vacuum, is the best overall model, there are plenty more possibilities.
- Best Vacuum Cleaner Overall: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional
- Best Stick Vacuum Cleaner: Dyson V8 Absolute
- Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaner: Eureka RapidClean Pro Lightweight
- Best Robot Vacuum Cleaner: Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum
- Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaner: Hoover OnePwr Cordless Handheld
- Best Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner: Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight
- Best Vacuum Cleaner For Hardwood Floors: Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction
- Best Vacuum Cleaner For Pet Hair: Dyson v15 Detect
- Best Value Vacuum Cleaner: Bissell Cleanview Bagless
- Best Car Vacuum Cleaner: Armor All Utility Vac
- Best Upright Vacuum Cleaner: Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
- Most Powerful Vacuum Cleaner: Dyson Ball Multi Floor
- Best Canister Vacuum Cleaner: Dyson Big Ball Canister
Dimensions: 14.96 x 11.4 x 45.5 inches | Weight: 13.7 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord length: 30 feet | Attachments: Pet power brush, crevice tool
There are a few modes on the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional upright vacuum that you could find useful. The upright mode, of course, allows you to clean both carpets and hardwood floors. You may detach the canister and utilize it as a handheld vacuum with one of several attachments to clean your stairs. The Shark Navigator also includes an extender, allowing you to vacuum high or difficult-to-reach locations to remove dust and cobwebs. It also incorporates an anti-allergen seal to keep infectious debris out of your home and a large capacity canister to hold more dirt than most other upright vacuums.
Pros:
- Able to get hard-to-reach areas
- Has anti-allergen seal
- Comes with additional attachments
Cons:
- Heavier than other models
- Not cordless
MOST POPULAR
2. Dyson V8 Absolute
$400$500Save $100 (20%)
Dimensions: 9.8 x 8.8 x 49 inches | Weight: 5.75 pounds | Cord: No; 40-minute battery life | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord length: NA | Attachments: Fluffy cleaner head, hair tool and more
The first generation Dyson V8 Absolute is one of the best Dyson vacuums, which we can certainly state based on extensive testing. This formidable stick model is a lightweight cordless vacuum with powerful suction that can take up everything from hairballs to exceptionally huge dust bunnies to the tiniest grains of dirt. The vacuum comes with six useful attachments for cleaning practically every surface and nook in your home, including a tiny motorized tool for deep cleaning upholstered surfaces and a combination tool for reaching spots like vents and floor trims. The filter is also washable, so you’ll never have to deal with a stinky vacuum again. (Read our full Dyson V8 Absolute review here.)
Pros:
- Has additional cleaning tools
- Washable filter
- Powerful suction
Cons:
- Pricey, even when on sale
- Not ideal on shag carpets
3. Eureka RapidClean Pro Lightweight Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
$115$155Save $40 (26%) With coupon
Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.3 x 43.3 inches | Weight: 5.26 pounds | Cord: No; 40-minute battery life | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord length: NA | Attachments: Crevice tool, 2-in-1 dust brush
You know how inconvenient it is to trip over your vacuum’s cable when cleaning your floors. You’d never have to worry about getting tangled up with this cordless model from Eureka. Furthermore, this is a really powerful machine. You can work on many rooms before recharging with a 40-minute fade-free runtime that quickly cleans wood floors, tile floors, low-pile rugs, and carpets. There are also LED headlights to view hidden dust in darker rooms, which can lie completely flat to reach under furniture and mattresses.
Pros:
- Swiveling head and flexible model
- Good for apartments
- Includes LED lights
Cons:
- Not ideal for heavy cleaning
- Unbalanced when standing up on its own
4. Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum
$485$600Save $115 (19%)
Dimensions: 12.9 x 12.6 x 3.5 inches | Weight: 14.5 pounds | Cord: No; 120-minute battery life | Compatible Floor Type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord Length: NA | Attachments: NA
The Shark AI Ultra Robot Vacuum has features that will make cleaning your entire home a reasonably easy (and painless) experience. This is how it works: The vacuum will map out your whole house or apartment on its first few runs. You then specify the rooms you want it to clean. Instead of randomly bumping around, as some robot vacuums do, the Shark IQ cleans in a row-by-row sequence. There’s also Wi-Fi and voice command capability via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, so all you have to do is tell your vacuum where to go.
Pros:
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant
- Follows a methodical row-by-row cleaning pattern
- Has a self-cleaning brush and allergen filter
Cons:
- Built-in filter is not washable
5. Hoover OnePwr Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
$92$99Save $7 (7%)
Dimensions: 16.5 x 5 x 6.5 inches | Weight: 3 pounds | Cord: No; 35-minute battery life with the option to swap batteries | Compatible floor type: Hard floor | Cord length: NA | Attachments: Built-in crevice tool
Do you require a handheld vacuum for car seats and other difficult-to-reach areas? With an inbuilt crevice tool and powerful suction that guarantees no dust is left behind, the Hoover OnePwr Cordless Handheld Vacuum is more than up to the task. The battery has a full runtime of 35 minutes, and while a charger is included, you can also purchase an additional 2Ah battery to extend the runtime. This vacuum is also extremely lightweight, weighing only 3 pounds, making it excellent for anyone with arthritis or other movement concerns.
Pros:
- Only weighs 3 pounds for easy control
- Can replace the battery for longer run time
- Built-in filter is washable
Cons:
- Doesn’t have a brush attachment
- Only comes with one battery
6. Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
$60$70Save $10 (14%)
Dimensions: 11.42 x 11.93 x 41.34 inches | Weight: 7.7 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord length: 18 feet | Attachments: Crevice tool, dusting brush
This powerful cleaner hits well above its weight class despite weighing only 7.7 pounds. The all-floor suction releases pet hair and debris from hard floors and carpets, while a detachable handle collects dirt in vents and other difficult-to-reach areas. There’s also no need to buy infinite replacements because the filter can be washed and reused. The vacuum’s small size contributes to its portability, allowing you to move it from room to room and then store it until you need it again.
Pros:
- Light and portable at only 7 pounds
- Powerful suction for hard floors and carpet
- Washable, reusable filter
Cons:
- Small tank fills up quickly
- Not ideal for thick carpets
7. Miele Classic C1 Pure Suction Canister Vacuum Cleaner
$349
Dimensions: 18.2 x 11 by 8.7 inches | Weight: 11.4 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible Floor Type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord Length: 21 feet | Attachments: Crevice tool, dusting brush and more
Miele’s vacuum is primarily designed to preserve hardwood floors in pristine condition. The 1,200-watt engine swoops debris while the nimble cleaning head effortlessly travels around chairs and table legs. The Miele vacuum has a filtration technology that preserves the motor and leaves the interior air cleaner than before vacuuming. If you have lots of thicker carpeting, there are better options than this vacuum because it lacks a brush roller. However, it’s a fantastic choice if your home is largely hardwood with a few low-pile rugs or carpets strewn about.
Pros:
- Good for low-pile carpets
- Filtration system for cleaner indoor air
- Flexible head for easier cleaning
Cons:
- Not ideal for thick carpets
- Bulkier than other models
8. Dyson V15 Detect
$680$750Save $70 (9%)
Dimensions: 11 x 6.5 x 37 inches | Weight: 6.8 pounds | Cord: No | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet| Cord length: NA | Attachments: Stubborn dirt brush, hair screw tool, fluffy cleaner head and more
If you have a cat or a dog, no matter how well you clean, your floors will almost certainly never be completely fur-free. The Dyson V15 is effective at sucking up the majority of shedding. While cordless vacuums aren’t typically known for their power, the V15 is an exception. This vacuum can operate for 60 minutes on a single charge, making it suitable for most houses. It has various pet-friendly features, including the laser brush head, highlighting hair and easy-to-miss dirt particles to help you see what you’re cleaning. When handling spot cleanings, it swiftly and conveniently changes to a handheld.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Seven attachments
- Cordless
Cons:
- May be tough to push on carpets
- Expensive
9. Bissell Cleanview Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
$78
Dimensions: 9 x 15 x 45 inches | Weight: 17.44 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible Floor Type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord Length: 25 feet | Attachments: Crevice tool, dusting brush and more
Bissell’s powerful model provides effective cleaning at an unusually low price. The huge (1-liter) tank conveniently empties into the garbage, the filter can be removed and washed, and a 25-foot cord provides prolonged cleaning power. The vacuum’s scatter-free technology prevents debris from flying around as you clean. And onboard storage keeps all the tools—a dusting brush, crevice tool, and extension wand—together and easily accessible when needed.
Pros:
- Excellent value for its features
- Large tank and good suction
- Storage for included tools
Cons:
- Not cordless
10. Armor All Utility Vac
$67$72Save $5 (7%)
Dimensions: 10.6 x 14.2 x 14.4 inches | Weight: 7 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible floor type: Hard floor | Cord length: 10 feet | Attachments: Crevice tool, detail brush and more
While cordless vacuums are useful for rapid cleanup, the best vacuums for heavier duties, like this Armor All Utility Shop Vacuum, are the more powerful corded models. It includes a 10-foot power cable that is easy to wrap and store when finished. It also has a brush attachment, crevice tool, detail brush, and various nozzles (including a blower). Remember that the hose has a diameter of 1.25 inches, so while it will easily catch dirt and dust, it will not work for larger materials such as leaves.
Pros:
- Deep-cleans vehicle interiors and/or garages
- Includes additional tools
- Easy to store
Cons:
- Won’t collect larger items like leaves
- Not cordless
11. Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
$292$320Save $28 (9%)
Dimensions: 13.2 x 11.9 x 45 inches | Weight: 15.4 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet | Cord length: 30 feet | Attachments: Crevice tool, pet power brush and more
The Shark Rotator Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum features a 2-in-1 design that lets you to detach the pod to clean hard-to-reach spots. Swivel steering with advanced technology gets into every nook and corner. Meanwhile, an integrated LED headlight highlights pet hair and dust bunnies for a thorough cleaning. If anyone in your home suffers from allergies, the Shark’s built-in HEPA filter and anti-allergen seal will make breathing much easier.
Pros:
- Pet Power Brush removes stubborn pet hair
- Features a large-capacity 0.88-quart dust cup
- Easily flip from floor to carpet mode
Cons:
- Heavy at nearly 16 pounds
- Pricier than similar models
12. Dyson Ball Multi Floor
$258$400Save $142 (36%)
Dimensions: 15.5 x 13.5 x 42.5 inches | Weight: 18 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet| Cord length: 35 feet | Attachments: Combination tool, stair tool
The Dyson Ball has earned a reputation as one of the most powerful corded vacuums. This machine has 1,350 watts of power and can easily suck up dirt, dust, pet hair, and anything else in its path. The vacuum includes a self-adjusting head that automatically switches between carpet and hard floor suction, and a HEPA filter captures allergens to keep them from spreading throughout your home. Stiff bristles go deep into the carpet to pick up any filth that may be lurking, and the vacuum’s spherical form makes it easy to maneuver around furniture. Push a button to empty the bin after the task ends; you don’t need to handle any of its contents.
Pros:
- Powerful suction
- Self-adjusting head
- Easy to empty
Cons:
- Heavy
- Corded
13. Dyson Big Ball Canister
$260$304Save $44 (14%)
Dimensions: 16 x 12 x 13 inches | Weight: 17.6 pounds | Cord: Yes | Compatible floor type: Hard floor, carpet| Cord length: 21 feet | Attachments: Stair tool, combination nozzle
Dyson’s Big Ball technology is also available in a canister style. This vacuum is one of a kind, with a circular design that rolls about your floor and even right itself if it gets knocked over. A 0.5-gallon dust cup with a HEPA filter collects and traps dirt particles, pet hair, allergies, and other contaminants. For focused cleaning, switch between a combination nozzle and a stair tool. When you’re through vacuuming, place the dust cup over your trash can, push a button to empty it, replace it, and move on. Some customers only complain that this machine needs to stand alone.
Pros:
- Bagless
- Rights itself
- Easy to operate
Cons:
- Can’t stand up on its own
- Shorter cord
How We Chose The Best Vacuum Cleaners
Our editors are well-versed in vacuum cleaners because we’ve published numerous stories. We’ve tried out robot vacuums, Dyson vacuums, and even robot mops that double as vacuums. We began our story by researching top-rated and bestselling vacuums from trustworthy brands, taking into account their features and customer evaluations. We also largely relied on existing studies. Years of research and first-hand experience among our authors and editors have given us a keen sense of which vacuums are worthwhile investments.
What To Consider When Buying A Vacuum Cleaner
When looking for a vacuum cleaner, take a few things in mind, such as the best type for you and the overall cleaning purpose. Here’s everything you need to know.
Type
Before you go out and buy a vacuum, experts recommend learning about the various types of vacuum cleaners available and the fundamental distinctions between them. A classic vacuum is an upright vacuum. In a single chassis, it features a suction head and a motor. Canister vacuums are more expensive than other models since they contain a separate motor and suction head. “Typically, canister vacuums have more energy than upright vacuums,” Wilson explains. Stick vacuums have a dust canister and various attachments on top of the stick. Robotic vacuums work with a smartphone app and can be controlled from anywhere—even when you’re not at home. Finally, portable vacuums are compact and typically used for spot cleanings or reaching difficult-to-reach areas such as stairs. It should be noted that several stick and cordless vacuums can be transformed into handhelds.
Cleaning Purpose
When selecting a vacuum, it is critical to consider your specific cleaning demands. For example, if you have fuzzy pets, consider a pet hair vacuum that specializes in removing fur from floors and carpets. For your automobile or rougher surfaces like garages, more than a lightweight vacuum is required; instead, seek utility and car-specific vacuums. Additionally, space needs to be considered. Apartments and smaller places may benefit from a lightweight stick vacuum. However, larger rooms typically require something heavier, such as a conventional upright vacuum. Some vacuums are also more suited to specific types of flooring than others. However, most vacuums are now prepared to handle hard flooring and carpets.
What Is The Best Vacuum Cleaner On The Market?
Our extensive research shows that the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional is the best vacuum for most consumers. The upright model not only has a large tank that can hold lots of dirt, but it can also work into tight spaces and trap dust and irritants thanks to its anti-allergen seal. However, no vacuum is ideal for every household. Depending on your unique demands, one model may outperform another.
Which Brand Of Vacuum Cleaner Is The Best?
Shark, Dyson, Eureka, Bissell, Miele, and Hoover are famous companies making top-of-the-line vacuums today. While no brand is superior to another, you can sometimes narrow down which to choose based on the type of vacuum you’re looking for. For example, iRobot (the company behind Roombas) specializes in robot vacuums, whereas Dyson is recognized for its stick vacuums.
How Often Should You Clean Your Vacuum Cleaner?
Your vacuum cleaner is also in need of cleaning. “Keeping your vacuum is relatively simple, takes around 30 minutes, and can extend the life of your vacuum,” adds Micetich. “Newer models make cleaning easy by using simple buttons to open up other parts of the vacuum, and they usually include a maintenance guide.” It’s best to read your vacuum’s instructions to ensure you’re cleaning it correctly, but “it’s generally a good idea to empty your vacuum’s dust canister after each use and conduct a deeper cleaning every three to six months,” she advises. Wilson suggests cleaning the filter of a bagless vacuum “at least once a month.”
Do You Need A Separate Vacuum For Hardwood Floors, Pets And Carpets?
Some vacuums are designed with specific goals, such as pets, hardwood floors, and carpets. And while having a separate vacuum for each type of flooring is good, it’s not necessary. “Vacuums have become much more versatile,” says Wilson. “If you have a cordless or upright vacuum, it will most likely have settings that allow you to switch from surface to surface,” Micetich explains. “Depending on the surface you’re cleaning, canister vacuums require you to switch out the vacuum heads.” She advises attempting to find a vacuum cleaner with numerous settings for different surfaces to save space—and your budget.
Are Dyson Vacuums The Most Powerful Vacuums On The Market?
For decades, Dyson has been a household name in vacuum cleaners, and for good reason: these vacuums are powerful and inventive. It’s worth noting that four Dyson vacuums made our list—these are high-quality items. However, despite their high power, Dyson vacuums are more expensive than their competitors, which is worth considering before purchasing. If you have lots of pet hair around your home or are concerned about the ability of your vacuum to suck up dirt and dust from your flooring, a Dyson is worth investigating. However, you may still find a good vacuum at a reduced cost with enough power to care for your flooring needs.