Best Upright Vacuums of 2023: Top Picks for Powerful Cleaning

Upright vacuums are a staple in many households, offering a convenient and efficient way to keep floors clean. They are designed to stand upright and be pushed around, making them easy to maneuver and store. When it comes to choosing the best upright vacuum, there are a few key factors to consider.

One of the most important things to look for in an upright vacuum is suction power. The stronger the suction, the better the vacuum will be at picking up dirt and debris. Another important consideration is the type of flooring in your home. Some vacuums are better suited for carpeted floors, while others work better on hard floors.

Additionally, the size and weight of the vacuum can play a role in its usability. A heavy vacuum may be difficult to push around, while a bulky one may be challenging to store. Finally, the price of the vacuum is also an important factor to consider.

After researching and testing several models, we have identified the best upright vacuums on the market. Our top picks offer powerful suction, versatile cleaning capabilities, and user-friendly features that make them a great choice for any home.

Table of Contents

Best Upright Vacuums

We know how important it is to have a clean home, and having the right vacuum can make all the difference. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best upright vacuums on the market. These vacuums have been carefully selected based on their suction power, maneuverability, and overall performance. Whether you have pets, carpets, or hardwood floors, we’ve got you covered. Check out our top picks below.

BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum

If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable vacuum that’s perfect for pet owners, then the BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum is definitely worth considering.

Pros

The specialized pet tools that come with this vacuum make cleaning up after your furry friends quick and easy.
The TRIPLE ACTION Brush Roll is fantastic at removing embedded pet hair and keeping it contained with Scatter-Free Technology.
The Swivel Steering feature makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and other obstacles in your home.

Cons

The vacuum can be a little noisy, which might be a problem if you have pets that are sensitive to loud noises.
The dirt tank is a little small, which means you’ll need to empty it frequently if you have a lot of pet hair to clean up.
The vacuum can be a little heavy and bulky, which might make it difficult to carry up and down stairs.

We’ve been using the BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum for a few weeks now, and we’re really impressed with how well it works. The specialized pet tools make it easy to clean up pet hair from upholstery, stairs, and other hard-to-reach areas, and the TRIPLE ACTION Brush Roll does a great job of removing embedded pet hair from carpets and rugs.

One of the things we really like about this vacuum is the Swivel Steering feature, which makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and other obstacles in our home. We were able to clean under our couch and other low furniture without any problems, and the vacuum did a great job of picking up dirt and debris.

The only real downside to this vacuum is that it can be a little noisy, which might be a problem if you have pets that are sensitive to loud noises. Additionally, the dirt tank is a little small, which means you’ll need to empty it frequently if you have a lot of pet hair to clean up. Finally, the vacuum can be a little heavy and bulky, which might make it difficult to carry up and down stairs.

Overall, we think the BISSELL CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum is a great choice for pet owners who are looking for an affordable and reliable vacuum that gets the job done.

ORECK XL COMMERCIAL Upright Vacuum Cleaner

If you’re looking for a lightweight and powerful upright vacuum cleaner for both carpets and hard floors, the ORECK XL COMMERCIAL Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a great option to consider.

Pros

The MICROSWEEP feature allows you to easily switch between carpet and bare floors without any adjustments.
The DIRECT SUCTION technology delivers dirt efficiently and maintains strong suction.
The HIGH-SPEED ROLLERBRUSH spins at 5,000 to 6,500 RPMs for a deep clean.

Cons

The vacuum cleaner doesn’t come with any attachments, so it’s not suitable for cleaning upholstery or stairs.
The power cord is quite long, which can be cumbersome when storing the vacuum.
The vacuum cleaner is quite loud, which may not be suitable for those who prefer quieter cleaning appliances.

We recently purchased the ORECK XL COMMERCIAL Upright Vacuum Cleaner and have been impressed with its performance. The MICROSWEEP feature makes it easy to switch between carpet and bare floors, and the DIRECT SUCTION technology ensures that dirt is efficiently picked up and suction is maintained.

The HIGH-SPEED ROLLERBRUSH is a great feature, as it spins at a high speed of 5,000 to 6,500 RPMs, which ensures a deep clean. However, we found that the vacuum cleaner doesn’t come with any attachments, which makes it unsuitable for cleaning upholstery or stairs.

The power cord is quite long, which is great for cleaning large areas, but it can be cumbersome when storing the vacuum cleaner. Additionally, we found that the vacuum cleaner is quite loud, which may not be suitable for those who prefer quieter cleaning appliances.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful and lightweight upright vacuum cleaner for carpets and hard floors, the ORECK XL COMMERCIAL Upright Vacuum Cleaner is a great option to consider.

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E 26

If you’re looking for an upright vacuum that’s perfect for pet owners, then the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E 26 might be the right choice for you.

Pros

The lift-away functionality allows you to easily clean above-floor areas like stairs, furniture, and more.
The anti-allergen complete seal works with a HEPA filter to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
The brushroll shutoff feature lets you instantly switch from more maneuverability on deep carpets to gentle bare floor cleaning.

Cons

The vacuum is a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to carry up and down stairs.
Some users have reported that the vacuum can be a bit loud, especially when using it on high power settings.
The dust cup can be a bit difficult to empty, and some users have reported that it can get clogged easily.

We’ve been using the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E 26 for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The lift-away functionality is a great feature that allows us to easily clean above-floor areas like stairs and furniture. The anti-allergen complete seal works well with the HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum, which is great for those with allergies.

The brushroll shutoff feature is also a nice touch, as it allows us to easily switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning. We’ve found that the vacuum does a great job of picking up pet hair and loose debris, and it’s powerful enough to deep-clean dander out of upholstery and other surfaces.

While the vacuum is a bit heavy, we’ve found that the swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver in and out of tight spaces, in corners, around furniture, and more. The extra-large-capacity dust cup is also a nice feature, as it allows us to clean for longer without having to stop and empty the dust cup.

Overall, we would recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E 26 to anyone who is looking for an upright vacuum that’s perfect for pet owners. It’s a bit on the heavy side, but the lift-away functionality, anti-allergen complete seal, and brushroll shutoff feature make it a great choice for those with pets or allergies.

Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum

If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful upright vacuum, the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum is a great choice.

Pros

The suction power is impressive, making it easy to deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors.
The Lift-Away functionality allows you to detach the pod for cleaning under furniture or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, which works with a HEPA filter, traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.

Cons

The vacuum is a bit heavy, which can make it tiring to use for extended periods of time.
The dust cup capacity is not as large as some other upright vacuums, so you may need to empty it more frequently.
The vacuum can be a bit noisy, which may be a concern if you have noise-sensitive pets or family members.

We’ve been using the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum for a few months now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The suction power is excellent, and it makes quick work of deep-cleaning carpets and picking up debris from hard floors.

One of the standout features of this vacuum is the Lift-Away functionality, which allows you to detach the pod for cleaning in hard-to-reach areas. We’ve found this to be particularly useful for cleaning under furniture and in tight spaces.

The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology is also a nice touch, as it works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner. This makes it a great choice for households with pets or allergy sufferers.

While the vacuum is a bit heavy, we’ve found that the swivel steering makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and in tight spaces. However, the noise level can be a bit high, which may be a concern if you have noise-sensitive pets or family members.

Overall, we would definitely recommend the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile cleaning solution.

Kenmore Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum

If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful upright vacuum, the Kenmore Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum is a great option.

Pros

The Lift-Up feature allows for versatile handheld cleaning above floors and stairs.
The No Touch Bag Technology makes emptying and cleaning the vacuum a breeze.
The PowerFlow bag chamber enables strong suction even as the bag fills.

Cons

The vacuum weighs 14 pounds, which may be heavy for some users.
The vacuum may be louder than other models, with a noise level of 75 dB.
The vacuum may require assembly before use.

We’ve been using the Kenmore Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The Lift-Up feature is especially useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas, and the No Touch Bag Technology makes emptying the vacuum a much cleaner process.

One thing to keep in mind is that the vacuum is on the heavier side, which may be a consideration for some users. Additionally, the vacuum can be a bit loud during use, so it may not be the best option for those who are sensitive to noise.

Overall, we’d recommend the Kenmore Intuition Bagged Upright Vacuum for anyone in need of a powerful and reliable cleaning tool.

Kenmore DU2012 Bagless Upright Vacuum

If you’re looking for a lightweight, powerful vacuum that cleans carpets and hardwood floors with ease, the Kenmore DU2012 Bagless Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice.

Pros

The enhanced HEPA filter system traps 99.7% of dirt, reducing pollutants in the room.
The 2-motor system excels in suction power, allowing you to change the vacuum cleaner suction for different fabric and carpet weight.
The 3-in-1 combination tool and upholstery tool make it easy to clean transitions.

Cons

The hose is too short for taller users.
The attachments come apart easily while using, which can be annoying.
The vacuum can get jammed up with pet hair.

We’ve been using the Kenmore DU2012 Bagless Upright Vacuum for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its suction power and maneuverability. The vacuum is lightweight and easy to move around, making it a great option for those with mobility issues.

The enhanced HEPA filter system is a standout feature, trapping dirt inside the vacuum and reducing pollutants in the room. We also appreciate the 2-motor system, which provides optimal airflow and cleaning efficiency for any surface.

The 3-in-1 combination tool and upholstery tool make it easy to clean transitions, and the vacuum’s wide sweeper path covers a lot of ground quickly. However, the hose is too short for taller users, and the attachments come apart easily while using, which can be annoying.

Overall, if you’re looking for a powerful, lightweight vacuum that excels in suction power and has an enhanced HEPA filter system, the Kenmore DU2012 Bagless Upright Vacuum is a great choice.

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

If you’re looking for a powerful, versatile, and lightweight vacuum cleaner, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice.

Pros

The Lift-Away functionality makes it easy to clean above-floor areas like stairs, furniture, and more.
The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filter trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.
The powerful suction and lightweight design make it easy to deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors.

Cons

The hose doesn’t really expand and has limited reach, which can be a pain when doing stairs.
Hair and dirt can get stuck on the roller and be difficult to remove.
The unit can tip over when you go to use the hose.

We’ve been using the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum for a while now, and we’re impressed with its performance. The Lift-Away functionality is a game-changer, making it easy to clean hard-to-reach areas like stairs, furniture, and more. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filter are also a big plus, as they trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner, making it an excellent choice for those with allergies.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is also powerful and lightweight, making it easy to deep-clean carpets and tackle bare floors. However, we did find that the hose doesn’t really expand and has limited reach, which can be a pain when doing stairs. Additionally, hair and dirt can get stuck on the roller and be difficult to remove, and the unit can tip over when you go to use the hose.

Overall, we think the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice for those looking for a powerful, versatile, and lightweight vacuum cleaner.

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

If you’re looking for a powerful upright vacuum that’s perfect for pets and multi-surface cleaning, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a great option.

Pros

The self-cleaning brushroll is engineered for more pet hair pickup with no hair wrap, making it a great choice for pet owners.
The Lift-Away functionality allows you to detach the pod for cleaning under furniture or detach the nozzle to clean above the floor, on upholstery, furniture, stairs, and more.
The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology works with a HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner.

Cons

The vacuum is a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver for some users.
Some users have reported that the vacuum can be a bit loud, especially on high power settings.
The dustbin can be a bit small, which means you may need to empty it frequently.

We’ve been using the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum for a few weeks now, and we’ve been impressed with its performance. The self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer for pet owners, as it makes it easy to pick up pet hair without having to worry about hair wrap. We also love the Lift-Away functionality, which makes it easy to clean under furniture and on upholstery.

The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology is another great feature, as it helps to trap dust and allergens inside the vacuum cleaner. This is especially important for those with allergies or asthma. The vacuum is also easy to maneuver, thanks to its swivel steering.

One downside to the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is that it can be a bit heavy, which can make it difficult to maneuver for some users. Additionally, some users have reported that the vacuum can be a bit loud, especially on high power settings. Finally, the dustbin can be a bit small, which means you may need to empty it frequently.

Overall, we think the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a great choice for pet owners and anyone looking for a powerful upright vacuum. Its self-cleaning brushroll, Lift-Away functionality, and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology make it a standout option.

Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet

If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient vacuum cleaner that can handle pet hair and dirt on any surface, then the Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet is a great option.

Pros

The vacuum’s WindTunnel 3 Technology provides powerful suction that can easily remove dirt and pet hair from carpets and hard floors.
The vacuum comes with a variety of pet tools that are specifically designed to tackle stubborn pet hair and dirt on furniture, stairs, and hard-to-reach areas.
The vacuum’s carbon HEPA filtration system helps to absorb pet odors, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.

Cons

The vacuum can be heavy and difficult to maneuver, especially on stairs.
The vacuum’s attachments are not very durable and may need to be replaced over time.
The vacuum can be loud, which may be a problem for some users.

In our experience, the Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet is a powerful and efficient vacuum cleaner that can handle pet hair and dirt on any surface. The vacuum’s WindTunnel 3 Technology provides powerful suction that can easily remove dirt and pet hair from carpets and hard floors, while the vacuum’s carbon HEPA filtration system helps to absorb pet odors, leaving your home smelling fresh and clean.

However, the vacuum can be heavy and difficult to maneuver, especially on stairs, and the attachments are not very durable and may need to be replaced over time. Additionally, the vacuum can be loud, which may be a problem for some users.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality vacuum cleaner that can handle pet hair and dirt, the Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet is definitely worth considering.

Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

If you’re looking for a versatile and powerful upright vacuum, the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a great option.

Pros

The Lift-Away functionality is incredibly useful for cleaning under furniture or above the floor, and the detachable pod makes it easy to clean hard-to-reach areas.
The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, combined with the HEPA filter, ensures that dust and allergens are trapped inside the vacuum cleaner, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.
The Advanced Swivel Steering makes it easy to maneuver the vacuum around furniture and in tight spaces, and the LED headlights are a nice touch that helps you spot hidden debris and pet hair.

Cons

The hose only reaches about 3 feet, which can make it difficult to use for some cleaning tasks.
The vacuum is a bit heavier and bulkier than some other models, which may make it difficult for some users to move around.
Some users have reported that the hose is thinner than previous models, which could make it more prone to tearing.

Overall, we think that the Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and versatile upright vacuum. The Lift-Away functionality, Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, and Advanced Swivel Steering are all features that make this vacuum stand out from the crowd.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best upright vacuum, there are a few key features to consider. We recommend looking for a vacuum with the following features:

Suction Power

One of the most important features to consider is suction power. A vacuum with strong suction power will be able to pick up dirt and debris more effectively, making your cleaning job easier and more efficient. Look for a vacuum with a motor that is at least 12 amps or higher.

Filtration System

Another important feature to consider is the filtration system. A good filtration system will help to trap dust, pollen, and other allergens, making the air in your home cleaner and healthier. Look for a vacuum with a HEPA filter, which is designed to capture even the smallest particles.

Attachments

Attachments can make a big difference when it comes to cleaning different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. Look for a vacuum with a variety of attachments, such as a crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool. These attachments will make it easier to clean stairs, furniture, and other areas that are difficult to reach with the main vacuum head.

Bagged vs. Bagless

Another choice to make is whether to go with a bagged or bagless vacuum. Bagged vacuums tend to be more hygienic, as the dust and dirt is contained in a disposable bag. Bagless vacuums can be more convenient, as you don’t have to worry about buying and replacing bags. Ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference.

Weight and Maneuverability

Finally, consider the weight and maneuverability of the vacuum. A vacuum that is too heavy or difficult to maneuver can make cleaning a chore. Look for a vacuum that is easy to move around and that won’t strain your back or arms during use.

By considering these features, you’ll be able to find the best upright vacuum for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top 10 upright vacuum cleaners?

As per our research and analysis, the top 10 upright vacuum cleaners are:

Dyson Ball Animal 2
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E
Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance UH72625
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright 2252
Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet-Friendly Bagged Upright Vacuum
Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Oreck Commercial XL Commercial Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Dirt Devil Razor Pet Bagless Multi-Floor Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Black+Decker AirSwivel Ultra Light Weight Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Tineco A11 Hero Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Which is the best upright bagged vacuum?

The Kenmore Elite 31150 Pet-Friendly Bagged Upright Vacuum is the best upright bagged vacuum according to our research and analysis. It has powerful suction, a HEPA filtration system, and a variety of tools and attachments for cleaning different surfaces and areas.

What is the best upright vacuum for hardwood and carpet?

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional NV356E is the best upright vacuum for hardwood and carpet according to our research and analysis. It has a powerful motorized brush roll that can easily transition from carpet to hardwood floors, and it also comes with a variety of attachments for cleaning different surfaces and areas.

What is the best lightweight upright vacuum?

The Black+Decker AirSwivel Ultra Light Weight Upright Vacuum Cleaner is the best lightweight upright vacuum according to our research and analysis. It is easy to maneuver and weighs only 8.8 pounds, making it ideal for people who need a lightweight vacuum for cleaning their homes.

Which is the best canister vacuum?

The Miele Complete C3 Marin Canister Vacuum Cleaner is the best canister vacuum according to our research and analysis. It has powerful suction, a HEPA filtration system, and a variety of tools and attachments for cleaning different surfaces and areas.

What is the best alternative to Shark vacuum?

The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is the best alternative to Shark vacuum according to our research and analysis. It has powerful suction, a self-adjusting cleaner head, and a variety of tools and attachments for cleaning different surfaces and areas.