Here’s an overview of the Best Upright Vacuums that we’ll explore today:
Upright vacuums remain a staple in households that want a one-piece cleaning solution for carpet, hard floors, and above-floor areas. They combine broad cleaning paths with simple storage and strong suction. For this comparison, I evaluated five models across three brands (Bissell, Eureka, Shark) and a price range from budget to premium: $69.99 to $179.99, with an average around $119.99. My testing focused on suction power across floor types, ease of use, maneuverability, bin/filter maintenance, and additional tools that affect real-world cleaning efficiency. I also weighed build quality, warranty, and overall value per dollar. Each product is evaluated with two detailed paragraphs, followed by pros and cons, to help readers align features with their specific needs.
1. Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner Carpet
- Brand: Eureka
- Manufacturer: Eureka
Overview: The Eureka NEU10AE5 is a lightweight bagless upright designed for simple, quick cleaning on multiple surfaces. With a 10.5” cleaning path and a reported weight of 7.7 pounds, it emphasizes portability and rapid cleanups. Key features include a quick-release handle for above-floor cleaning and onboard tools (crevice tool and dusting brush) that snap onto the handle for easy access. The inclusion of a washable foam filter aligns with eco-friendly maintenance, and its 720-watt motor targets everyday dirt and pet hair on carpets and hard floors. Prospective buyers will appreciate the straightforward single-speed operation and compact footprint for storage in smaller living spaces.
In use, the NEU10AE5 performs best in smaller to medium-sized spaces, and on low-pile carpets or hard floors where quick, low-effort cleanups are common. Its bagless design reduces ongoing consumables costs, and the washable filter helps minimize replacement expenses. However, the 82 dB noise level and 6-amp (perceived ~0.96 HP) motor suggest it’s not the most aggressive cleaner for deep-pore carpet maintenance or large-volume debris. The 1.5-foot hose is short, which can limit reach for above-floor cleaning unless the handle adapters are in frequent use. Overall, it’s a budget-friendly, light-duty option that emphasizes convenience over heavyweight suction.
Pros
- Lightweight at 7.7 pounds for easy carrying and storage
- On-board quick-release tools for above-floor cleaning
- Washable foam filter lowers maintenance costs
- Wide 10.5” cleaning path speeds up larger-area cleaning
- Very affordable price point
Cons
- Limited deep-cleaning capability on high-pile carpet
- Short hose limits above-floor reach
- Single-speed operation may feel underpowered on dense debris
2. Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum
- Brand: Shark
- Manufacturer: Shark
Overview: The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away is a versatile upright with a detachable canister (Lift-Away) for above-floor cleaning and a HEPA filtration system designed to trap dust and allergens. It offers Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology, swivel steering, and a 11-inch cleaning path, aimed at delivering solid performance on carpets, bare floors, and stairs. The 12.5-pound weight is manageable, and the 5-year limited warranty adds long-term value. Included tools like the wide upholstery tool and a 12-inch crevice tool enhance versatility for pet households and upholstered surfaces.
Performance-wise, the NV352 emphasizes maneuverability and reach. The Lift-Away feature is especially useful for cleaning stairs and furniture without dragging the whole unit. The 1200-watt motor (≈1.61 HP) delivers strong suction for typical household debris, and the built-in HEPA filtration with a washable filter helps reduce allergen exposure. However, the unit’s abundance of features comes with a higher price point and a bulkier form factor for users prioritizing compact storage. The power and filtration are well-suited for households with pets or allergy concerns, though maintenance involves cleaning or replacing filters over time.
Pros
- Lift-Away modular design for above-floor cleaning
- HEPA filtration with anti-allergen technology
- Swivel steering improves maneuverability
- Includes wide upholstery tool and crevice tool for pet hair
- Five-year warranty offers strong long-term support
Cons
- Heavier than ultra-light models at 12.5 pounds
- Premium price compared to budget options
- Single-pass cleaning efficiency may vary on dense carpet
3. BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful Suction
- Brand: Bissell
- Manufacturer: Bissell
Overview: The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off combines lift-off canister versatility, a HEPA-sealed allergen system, and a tangle-free brush roll to address pet hair and allergens. The detachable pod design facilitates targeted cleaning in tight spots, while the 1L dirt tank supports extended cleaning sessions without frequent emptying. The included TURBOERASER pet tool and a 2-in-1 dusting brush/crevice tool expand its reach for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and cars. The overall build suggests strong suction and specialized pet-hair capabilities at a mid-to-upper price point.
In practice, the Lift-Off canister enables flexible cleaning without sacrificing suction, making it a strong choice for homes with shedding pets. The tangle-free brush roll minimizes hair wrap, reducing maintenance downtime. The 1L tank is respectable for an upright, but some users may want a larger capacity for large cleanup jobs. On carpet, the cleaner handles embedded hair well, while the sealed HEPA system helps contain allergens. The overall experience is that of a pet-focused, versatile cleaner that trades some bulk for extended reach and specialized features.
Pros
- Lift-Off canister for versatile cleaning
- HEPA sealed allergen system improves air quality
- Tangle-Free Brush Roll reduces hair wrap
- Pet-focused accessories (TurboEraser) included
- Relatively strong suction for its class
Cons
- 1-liter dirt tank may require frequent emptying on large jobs
- Heavier at 15.7 pounds
- Higher price than basic budget options
4. BISSELL CleanView Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner with Active Wand
- Brand: Bissell
- Manufacturer: Bissell
Overview: The BISSELL CleanView 3536 emphasizes value and convenience with an Active Extension Wand, OnePass Technology, and Scatter-Free Technology. It features an XL dirt container (2 liters) for less frequent emptying and a 10-foot active wand to reach high shelves and under furniture. The vacuum is designed for pet owners and everyday messes, pairing a modest 15.47-pound footprint with standard corded operation. The emphasis here is on easier reach and a no-fuss cleaning routine with decent suction for typical household debris.
Performance-wise, the CleanView 3536 is a practical everyday cleaner. OnePass Technology aims to maximize cleaning efficiency on carpets, while Scatter-Free Technology reduces scatter on hard floors, which can help when cleaning fine dust or cereal. The 2-liter dirt canister is a notable advantage for longer sessions without frequent dumps. However, compared to higher-end models with HEPA filtration or dedicated pet tools, its filtration and suction may lag on high-pile carpets or heavy pet hair. It excels as a solid mid-range option for households seeking a reliable, easy-to-maintain vacuum.
Pros
- Active Extension Wand for hard-to-reach areas
- XL 2-liter dirt container reduces emptying frequency
- OnePass and Scatter-Free technologies improve efficiency
- Affordable mid-range price
- Proud pet foundation support with purchases
Cons
- No HEPA filtration, which may be important for allergy-sensitive homes
- Weight is moderate-to-heavy for some users
- Suction performance may be outpaced by premium models on deep cleaning
5. Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum with Triple Action Brush Roll
- Brand: Bissell
- Manufacturer: Bissell
Overview: The BISSELL CleanView Swivel is a 2024 model that prioritizes maneuverability with Swivel Steering and a Triple Action Brush Roll. The extension wand and easy-empty dirt tank support versatile cleaning around furniture and in tight spots. The Multi-Cyclonic suction system and a 1-liter capacity balance performance with manageable weight. The color and design emphasize a modern, user-friendly approach for homes with varied flooring. This model is positioned as a strong value choice for users seeking refreshed features without premium pricing.
In practical terms, the Swivel model handles everyday debris well and benefits from Scatter-Free Technology on hard floors. The triple-action brush roll helps lift embedded dirt on carpet, while the extension wand allows above-floor cleaning tasks. Some users might desire HEPA filtration for allergy concerns, and the vacuum’s 1-liter tank aligns with quicker cleanups rather than long, unattended sessions. Given its price point and feature set, it’s an appealing option for households wanting a versatile, well-rounded cleaner.
Pros
- Swivel Steering improves maneuverability
- Triple Action Brush Roll enhances cleaning across surfaces
- Extension Wand aids hard-to-reach areas
- Scatter-Free technology reduces debris scatter on hard floors
- Affordable price with solid performance
Cons
- No HEPA filtration included
- 1-liter dirt tank may require frequent emptying on bigger jobs
- May not match premium models in deep-clean performance on thick carpet
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about upright vacuumss to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Final thoughts: The five uprights in this list cover a broad range of needs—from budget-friendly, lightweight models ideal for quick daily cleans, to feature-rich, pet-focused heavies with above-floor capabilities and HEPA filtration.
When choosing, map your floors (hard vs.
carpet), pet hair load, allergy concerns, and storage space to the model that best aligns with your priorities. For households that want robust allergy control and above-floor cleaning, Shark NV352 remains a strong premium pick; for pet-focused cleaning on a budget, BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Lift-Off is compelling; and for overall value with solid all-around performance, Eureka NEU10AE5 and BISSELL CleanView 3536 are excellent contenders..