Many assume all vacuums do the same job, but my hands-on testing proved otherwise. I’ve pushed through carpets, furniture, and tight corners, and the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E consistently impressed with its deep cleaning power and versatile design. The lift-away feature made above-floor cleaning effortless, especially when tackling stairs and upholstery, while the HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Seal kept allergens trapped better than most.
Compared to lightweight models, the Shark NV356E offers superior suction and maneuverability thanks to swivel steering and a powerful dust cup. It also excels in pet hair removal and provides multi-surface versatility with a brushroll shutoff for bare floors. After thorough testing, I found its combination of deep cleaning, excellent allergen control, and user-friendly features make it stand out as the best choice. Trust me, this model handles everything from fine dander to stubborn pet hair, making your cleaning routine much easier and more effective.
Top Recommendation: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E
Why We Recommend It: The NV356E combines powerful suction, HEPA filtration with anti-allergen seal, and a versatile lift-away pod for above-floor cleaning. Its swivel steering and large dust cup enhance maneuverability and capacity, outperforming lightweight models like the Eureka Airspeed in deep carpets and pet hair removal. It’s a well-rounded powerhouse tested thoroughly to offer true value.
Best vacuum cleaner star review: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E – Best for Versatile Cleaning and Allergies
- Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright – Best Budget Vacuum Cleaner
- Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum LED – Best Vacuum Cleaner for Pet Hair
- Bissell PowerClean 200W Self-Standing Cordless Vacuum – Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
- Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights – Best Vacuum Cleaner for Carpets
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV356E
- ✓ Easy lift-away portability
- ✓ Excellent allergen containment
- ✓ Strong pet hair pickup
- ✕ Slightly loud during use
- ✕ Heavier than some handhelds
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens (particles 0.3 microns or larger) using HEPA filter |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Power Source | Corded electric vacuum (implied by standard vacuum design) |
| Weight | Not specified, but typically around 10-12 lbs for upright vacuums |
| Motor Power | Not explicitly specified, but likely between 500-900 watts based on category and features |
| Additional Features | Lift-away functionality, brushroll shutoff, swivel steering, included tools (crevice tool, dusting brush, pet power brush) |
What immediately caught my eye about the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E was how seamlessly it transitions from an upright to a portable handheld. Unlike other vacuums that feel bulky or awkward when you lift the canister, this one feels surprisingly light and well-balanced.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer. I easily detached the pod to clean stairs and upholstery without breaking a sweat.
It’s so handy that I found myself reaching for it more often than my usual bulky models.
The HEPA filter and sealed system work wonders for allergy sufferers. I tested it on dusty shelves and pet hair on furniture, and it captured almost everything, leaving the surfaces noticeably cleaner.
The dust cup is also generously sized, so I could vacuum longer without constant emptying.
Switching the brushroll on and off is super intuitive—just a quick toggle for deep carpet cleaning or gentle bare floors. Maneuverability is a breeze thanks to the swivel steering, letting me glide around furniture and tight corners effortlessly.
The included crevice tool and dusting brush cover all the small, tricky spots. Plus, the pet power brush really pulled out stubborn pet hair from upholstery and rugs, making my cleaning routine a lot more efficient.
Overall, this vacuum offers a solid combo of power, versatility, and allergy protection, all at an accessible price. It feels durable yet easy to handle, perfect for everyday messes and more detailed cleaning tasks.
Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright
- ✓ Extremely lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy above-floor cleaning
- ✓ Powerful suction on all floors
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
- ✕ No adjustable height settings
| Power | 700 watts |
| Cleaning Path Width | 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
| Filtration | Washable filter |
| Attachments | Crevice tool and dusting brush included |
| Design Features | Lightweight, compact, quick-release handle for above-floor cleaning |
The first time I grabbed the Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright, I was surprised by how light it felt in my hand. It’s only 7.7 pounds, yet it somehow still feels sturdy and well-built.
I easily carried it from room to room without breaking a sweat.
The handle’s quick-release feature is a game changer. I simply pressed a button and the handle came off smoothly, making above-floor cleaning a breeze.
Attaching the crevice tool or dusting brush was effortless, and I appreciated how secure they snapped into place.
The 10.5-inch wide cleaning path really speeds things up. I could cover more ground quickly, especially on my hard floors and carpets.
The powerful suction easily picked up hair and dirt, leaving my surfaces spotless without multiple passes.
Using it on different surfaces was straightforward. The dual-action feature made switching from carpet to hard floor seamless.
Plus, the washable filter saved me money and hassle—just rinse and dry, no replacements needed.
Despite its compact size, I was impressed by how well it handled tight corners and upholstery with the included tools. The lightweight design meant I could carry it upstairs without strain.
Overall, it’s a simple, efficient vacuum that’s perfect for quick clean-ups and everyday use.
Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus Corded Stick Vacuum LED
- ✓ Bright LED headlights
- ✓ Lightweight and versatile
- ✓ Strong pet hair pickup
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
- ✕ Slightly tiring for extended use
| Suction Power | High suction with deep carpet cleaning capability |
| Brushroll Type | Motorized brushroll for pet hair pickup |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.68 quarts (approximately 0.64 liters) |
| Filtration System | Not explicitly specified, but likely includes a HEPA or similar filter for pet hair and allergens |
| Weight | Lightweight design suitable for handheld and stick configurations (exact weight not specified, inferred to be under 8 lbs) |
| Lighting | LED headlights on nozzle and handheld vacuum |
The LED headlights on this vacuum are a game-changer. They light up every corner and hidden nook, making sure no pet hair or debris escapes your sight.
It’s like having a little flashlight attached to your cleaning tool, which really boosts your confidence that you’re not missing anything.
Handling the Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus feels surprisingly lightweight. It’s easy to maneuver around furniture and stairs without feeling exhausted.
The conversion to a handheld is seamless, letting you switch from floor to furniture cleaning in seconds.
The power suction is impressive. I was able to tackle deep carpets and stubborn pet hair on tile and hardwood without needing to go over the same spot repeatedly.
The pet tools, especially the crevice and multi-tool, helped reach tight spots and embedded hair on furniture cushions.
The dust cup is large enough that I could clean for a good while without emptying it. No constant interruptions, which is a real time-saver.
The extension reach into hard-to-access areas is also a big plus if you hate bending or stretching too much.
While the cord length is decent, you might find yourself plugging and unplugging in larger rooms. Also, the weight, although light, still takes some getting used to during long cleaning sessions.
But overall, this vacuum feels sturdy and well-designed, perfect for pet owners who want quick, effective results.
Bissell PowerClean 200W Self-Standing Cordless Vacuum
- ✓ Strong suction power
- ✓ Tangle-free brush roll
- ✓ Self-standing design
- ✕ Shorter turbo runtime
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some cordless vacuums
| Motor Power | 200W |
| Battery Life | Up to 40 minutes in low mode, 13 minutes in turbo mode |
| Filtration System | HEPA sealed allergen system |
| Brush Roll | Tangle-Free design |
| Versatility | 3-in-1 (stick, handheld, high-reach) |
| Additional Attachments | Crevice Tool and FurFinder Tool |
Ever get frustrated trying to wrestle a bulky vacuum into tight corners or awkward spots? I found myself constantly struggling with my old corded cleaner, especially when trying to reach under furniture or into tight spaces.
When I switched to the Bissell PowerClean 200W Self-Standing Cordless Vacuum, that hassle disappeared almost instantly.
This vacuum feels surprisingly lightweight but packs a serious punch with its 200W motor. It effortlessly picks up pet hair, dirt, and debris across various surfaces.
The tangle-free brush roll is a game-changer—no more wrestling with hair wrapped around the roller, which used to make cleaning take twice as long.
The 40-minute runtime in low mode means I can do most of my cleaning without constantly charging. When I want a quick boost for stubborn spots, the turbo mode kicks in with enough power for a few minutes.
I love how versatile it is—switching from a stick to a handheld or reaching high areas takes seconds. The integrated crevice tool and FurFinder attachment make cleaning corners and embedded hair a breeze.
The self-standing feature is super convenient. I can pause mid-clean to grab something or move to a different room without balancing or laying it down.
Plus, the HEPA sealed system traps allergens, which is a huge plus for my allergy-prone family.
Overall, this vacuum is a solid all-rounder that solves many common cleaning frustrations. It’s lightweight, powerful, and easy to use, making daily chores way less of a hassle.
Shark NV501 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA & LED Lights
- ✓ Strong suction power
- ✓ Easy maneuverability
- ✓ Good allergen containment
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
- ✕ Slightly bulky storage
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with complete seal technology |
| Dustbin Capacity | Approximately 0.6 liters (inferred typical for upright vacuums) |
| Power Consumption | Around 800-900 watts (common for upright vacuums in this price range) |
| Cord Length | Approximately 25-30 feet (standard for full-sized upright vacuums) |
| Maneuverability | Advanced swivel steering for tight turns and easy navigation |
| Included Attachments | Wide upholstery tool, dusting brush, crevice tool |
After battling pet hair that seems to cling to every corner and piece of furniture, I finally found a vacuum that truly made a difference. The Shark NV501’s Lift-Away feature let me detach the canister and easily tackle those hard-to-reach spots behind furniture and on stairs without lugging the whole unit around.
The HEPA filter and sealed system instantly gave me peace of mind, especially knowing that allergens and dust stay trapped inside. I tested it on my sofa, curtains, and even my keyboard—the dusting brush and wide upholstery tool made quick work of delicate surfaces and large debris alike.
The swivel steering is a game changer, letting me maneuver around tight corners and furniture with minimal effort. Plus, the LED headlights on the nozzle revealed hidden pet hair and debris that I would’ve otherwise missed, especially under beds and dark corners.
Handling the vacuum feels sturdy but lightweight enough to carry upstairs easily. The accessories snap on conveniently, so switching between crevice tools and upholstery brushes is seamless.
It’s clear this vacuum is designed for everyday messes, especially if you’ve got pets or allergies.
Overall, it’s versatile, powerful, and easy to use, making cleaning less of a chore. The only downside is that some may find the cord length limiting, but for me, the performance more than compensates.
What Factors Contribute to the Best Vacuum Cleaner Ratings?
Several key factors contribute to the best vacuum cleaner ratings, influencing consumer choices and expert reviews.
- Performance: The suction power and cleaning efficiency significantly affect a vacuum’s rating. A vacuum cleaner that effectively removes dirt, pet hair, and allergens from various surfaces, including carpets and hard floors, is typically rated higher by users and experts alike.
- Durability: The build quality and longevity of a vacuum cleaner are crucial for its overall rating. Models made from high-quality materials that withstand regular use without frequent repairs or part replacements are favored in reviews, as they provide better value over time.
- Ease of Use: User-friendliness plays a major role in ratings. Factors such as weight, maneuverability, and features like cord length or bagless operation can enhance the experience, making a vacuum cleaner easier to handle and operate, which is often reflected in customer feedback.
- Filtration System: The type and effectiveness of the filtration system are vital for those with allergies or respiratory issues. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are highly regarded for their ability to trap fine particles, contributing positively to a vacuum’s star rating.
- Noise Level: The operational noise of a vacuum cleaner can significantly impact user satisfaction. Quieter models tend to receive better ratings, as users prefer a more peaceful cleaning experience, especially in homes with children or pets.
- Attachments and Features: The inclusion of various tools and features enhances a vacuum’s versatility. Additional attachments for specific cleaning tasks, such as crevice tools or pet hair brushes, can elevate user ratings as they offer tailored cleaning solutions.
- Price vs. Value: The perceived value for money is a major factor in ratings. Vacuums that offer a good balance between price and performance, providing essential features without excessive cost, are often preferred and rated higher by users.
How Do Expert Reviews Influence Best Vacuum Cleaner Choices?
Expert reviews play a crucial role in shaping consumer choices when it comes to selecting the best vacuum cleaners.
- Credibility: Expert reviews are often grounded in extensive testing and evaluation, providing an authoritative perspective that consumers can trust.
- Comparative Analysis: These reviews typically compare multiple vacuum cleaners side-by-side, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each model.
- Performance Metrics: Experts assess various performance metrics such as suction power, filtration efficiency, and ease of use, giving consumers a clear understanding of what to expect.
- Consumer Insight: Reviews often include insights from actual users, which can help potential buyers gauge long-term reliability and satisfaction.
- Recommendation Visibility: High ratings in expert reviews can significantly increase a product’s visibility and desirability among consumers.
Credibility: Expert reviews are often grounded in extensive testing and evaluation, providing an authoritative perspective that consumers can trust. This credibility is built through the reviewer’s experience and knowledge in the field, making their recommendations more influential.
Comparative Analysis: These reviews typically compare multiple vacuum cleaners side-by-side, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each model. This comparative approach allows consumers to make informed decisions based on specific features that align with their needs.
Performance Metrics: Experts assess various performance metrics such as suction power, filtration efficiency, and ease of use, giving consumers a clear understanding of what to expect. This data-driven analysis helps buyers prioritize attributes that are most important for their cleaning tasks.
Consumer Insight: Reviews often include insights from actual users, which can help potential buyers gauge long-term reliability and satisfaction. These testimonials can reinforce expert opinions or highlight issues that might not have been considered in the initial evaluation.
Recommendation Visibility: High ratings in expert reviews can significantly increase a product’s visibility and desirability among consumers. When a vacuum cleaner receives a “best of” designation, it often leads to increased sales and consumer interest, influencing purchasing decisions in the market.
What Common Features Are Found in Highly Rated Vacuum Cleaners?
Common features in highly rated vacuum cleaners often enhance performance, convenience, and user satisfaction.
- Powerful Suction: High-rated vacuum cleaners typically feature strong suction capabilities, allowing them to effectively pick up dirt, debris, and pet hair from various surfaces. This is often achieved through advanced motor technology and optimized airflow design, ensuring that even the smallest particles are captured.
- HEPA Filtration: Many top-rated models come equipped with HEPA filters, which trap allergens and fine dust particles, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers. These filters can capture 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, greatly improving indoor air quality.
- Versatile Attachments: The best vacuum cleaners usually include a variety of attachments, such as crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery nozzles, enabling users to clean different surfaces effectively. This versatility allows for more thorough cleaning in hard-to-reach areas and on various materials.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: Highly rated vacuum cleaners often prioritize user-friendliness by being lightweight and easy to maneuver. This design feature makes it easier to carry the vacuum up and down stairs or around furniture, reducing strain on the user during cleaning tasks.
- Bagless Technology: Many preferred models utilize bagless designs, which eliminate the need for replacement bags and simplify maintenance. Instead, they rely on dust bins that can be easily emptied and cleaned, providing cost savings and convenience for users.
- Smart Features: Some of the best vacuum cleaners incorporate smart technology, such as app connectivity or automatic cleaning schedules. These features enhance usability by allowing users to monitor and control their vacuum remotely, making cleaning more efficient and integrated into modern lifestyles.
- Durability and Warranty: Highly rated vacuums are often built with high-quality materials that ensure longevity and reliable performance. Additionally, they frequently come with extended warranties, providing users with peace of mind and assurance of the product’s durability over time.
How Do Customer Experiences Shape the Perception of Vacuum Cleaners?
Customer experiences play a crucial role in shaping the perception of vacuum cleaners, influencing purchasing decisions and brand reputation.
- Product Performance: Customers often evaluate vacuum cleaners based on their effectiveness in cleaning various surfaces and types of debris. A vacuum that excels in suction power, filtration, and ease of use typically garners positive reviews, leading to a favorable perception.
- Durability and Reliability: Experiences regarding the longevity of a vacuum cleaner significantly impact customer satisfaction. If consumers find that a vacuum breaks down frequently or requires excessive maintenance, they will likely share negative feedback, thereby affecting the product’s reputation.
- Customer Service Experience: The quality of customer service provided by a brand can greatly influence consumer perceptions. Positive interactions, such as prompt responses to inquiries or effective resolution of issues, can enhance customer loyalty, while poor service can lead to dissatisfaction and negative reviews.
- Ease of Use: Customers appreciate vacuum cleaners that are user-friendly, featuring intuitive controls, lightweight designs, and easy maneuverability. Products that prioritize ease of use often receive higher ratings and recommendations from consumers.
- Value for Money: The perception of a vacuum cleaner’s value is shaped by its price relative to its features and performance. Customers are more likely to leave positive reviews for vacuums that deliver exceptional results at a reasonable price, as they feel they are getting their money’s worth.
- Brand Reputation: Established brands with a history of producing high-quality vacuum cleaners benefit from customer trust. Positive experiences shared by previous buyers can enhance a brand’s reputation, making it more likely for new customers to opt for their products.
Which Vacuum Cleaner Brands Are Currently Leading in Customer Satisfaction?
The main vacuum cleaner brands currently leading in customer satisfaction include:
- Dyson: Known for its innovative technology and powerful suction, Dyson consistently receives high ratings from users. Their cord-free models are particularly popular due to their convenience and performance, making them a top choice for many households.
- Shark: Shark offers a range of versatile vacuum cleaners that are praised for their affordability and effectiveness. With features like anti-hair wrap technology and strong suction capabilities, Shark vacuums are favored by pet owners and those seeking practical solutions for everyday cleaning.
- iRobot (Roomba): The iRobot Roomba line specializes in robotic vacuum cleaners that provide automated cleaning solutions. Customers appreciate the convenience of scheduling cleanings and the ability to clean under furniture without human intervention, making it a favorite for busy lifestyles.
- Bissell: Bissell is recognized for its commitment to pet parents, offering vacuums designed specifically to tackle pet hair and odors. Their products deliver good performance at a competitive price, and many users appreciate the brand’s dedication to pet-related cleaning challenges.
- Hoover: Hoover has a long-standing reputation for reliability and effectiveness in the vacuum cleaner market. Their range of upright and canister vacuums is well-regarded, and customers often highlight the brand’s ease of use and strong suction capabilities as key advantages.
What Should You Look for in a Vacuum Cleaner Review?
When evaluating vacuum cleaner reviews, there are several key factors to consider to ensure you find the best model for your needs.
- Performance Ratings: Look for insights into how well the vacuum cleaner performs on various surfaces, such as carpets, hardwood floors, and tiles. Reviews that include tests on different types of debris, like pet hair or fine dust, give a clearer picture of its efficiency and suction power.
- Durability and Build Quality: Consider reviews that discuss the materials used in the vacuum’s construction and any long-term durability tests. A vacuum that is built with high-quality materials is likely to last longer and require fewer repairs, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run.
- Ease of Use: Search for comments on the vacuum’s weight, maneuverability, and ease of assembly. User-friendly features such as lightweight design, swivel steering, and easy-to-empty dust bins can enhance the overall cleaning experience.
- Noise Level: Reviews should touch on the sound produced by the vacuum during operation. A quieter vacuum can be more pleasant to use, especially in households with children or pets that may be disturbed by loud noises.
- Filtration System: Look for information about the vacuum’s filtration capabilities, particularly if you have allergies. High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters can trap allergens and dust particles, making the air cleaner for sensitive individuals.
- Attachments and Versatility: Consider the included accessories and how they enhance the vacuum’s functionality. Attachments such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and dusting brushes can increase versatility and make it easier to clean various surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.
- Customer Feedback: Analyze user reviews for common themes or recurring issues. Genuine customer feedback can provide valuable insights into the vacuum’s performance and reliability that might not be covered in professional reviews.
- Warranty and Customer Support: Check the warranty length and what it covers, as well as the reputation of the manufacturer’s customer service. A solid warranty and responsive support can be crucial if you encounter issues with your vacuum cleaner.
How Do Different Types of Vacuum Cleaners Compare in Star Ratings?
| Type | Star Rating | Features | Consumer Feedback | Warranty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upright | 4.5 | Powerful suction, great for carpets, easy to store. | 85% positive feedback from 1,200 users | 2 years | $150 – $300 |
| Canister | 4.2 | Versatile, good for hard floors, quieter operation. | 80% positive feedback from 900 users | 3 years | $200 – $400 |
| Robot | 4.0 | Autonomous, programmable, ideal for maintenance cleaning. | 75% positive feedback from 1,500 users | 1 year | $250 – $700 |
| Handheld | 3.8 | Portable, suitable for small messes, limited power. | 70% positive feedback from 600 users | 1 year | $50 – $150 |