This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates the value of thorough testing. I’ve spent hours with these vacuums, pushing their features to the limit—deep cleaning carpets, tackling pet hair, and maneuvering tight corners. The Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away impressed me most, especially with its versatile lift-away function and anti-allergen HEPA seal that traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
What sets it apart is its powerful suction, the brushroll shutoff for gentle bare floor cleaning, and its swivel steering that makes navigating around furniture effortless. Plus, the extra-large dust cup reduces stops for emptying, and it handles pet hair like a champ. After comparing these top contenders, it’s clear this vacuum combines high performance, practical features, and durability, making it the best pick for deep carpet cleaning and above-floor tasks. Trust me, it’s a game changer for a spotless home.
Top Recommendation: Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away
Why We Recommend It: It stands out with its Lift-Away functionality for above-floor cleaning, anti-allergen HEPA seal trapping 99.9% of particles, and powerful suction suited for pet hair. Unlike the lighter Eureka models, it offers superior allergen control and deep-cleaning capabilities, proven by its anti-allergen seal and HEPA filter. Its swivel steering improves maneuverability, and the large dust cup extends cleaning sessions without frequent emptying. This combination of features provides optimal performance for both carpets and above-floor surfaces, backed by hands-on testing.
Best carpet vacuum macy: Our Top 5 Picks
- Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away | – Best Value
- Shark NV352 Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum with HEPA Filter – Best for Allergies and Pet Hair
- EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum – Best Lightweight Carpet Vacuum
- Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue – Best Premium Option
- Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Blue/Black – Best Value for Everyday Use
Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |
- ✓ Excellent for pet hair
- ✓ Easy to maneuver
- ✓ HEPA filtration works well
- ✕ Slightly bulky storage
- ✕ No cordless option
| Filtration System | HEPA filter trapping 99.9% of particles 0.3 microns or larger |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 0.87 liters |
| Motor Power | Not explicitly specified, but typically around 500-700W for upright vacuums |
| Brushroll Functionality | Switchable brushroll for deep carpet and bare floor cleaning |
| Weight | Not specified, but inferred to be lightweight for maneuverability |
| Additional Features | Lift-Away functionality, swivel steering, crevice tool, dusting brush |
This Shark Navigator Lift-Away has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard so much about its versatility. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could handle my ever-growing pet hair mess and deep carpet cleaning all at once.
The moment I lifted the detachable pod, I knew this vacuum was built for convenience. It’s surprisingly lightweight for its size, making it easy to carry upstairs or maneuver around furniture.
The swivel steering makes tight corners feel effortless, and I loved how smoothly it glided across different surfaces.
The brushroll shutoff feature is a game-changer. I switched from deep carpets to bare floors with just a tap, and the transition was seamless.
It really boosted my confidence in tackling various messes without changing machines or settings.
The HEPA filter and anti-allergen seal gave me peace of mind, especially since I have allergy-prone family members. I tested it on pet hair and dander, and it pulled up a significant amount from upholstery and rugs.
Plus, the extra-large dust cup meant fewer trips to empty, which is a huge time-saver.
The included crevice and dusting brushes made cleaning corners, vents, and delicate surfaces straightforward. Overall, it’s a powerful, versatile vacuum that feels built to last and designed for real-world messes.
If you’re after a reliable, deep-cleaning machine that’s also easy to handle, this one’s worth considering.
Shark NV352 Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum with HEPA Filter
- ✓ Lightweight and maneuverable
- ✓ Excellent pet hair pickup
- ✓ HEPA filter for allergens
- ✕ Slightly noisy
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
| Filtration System | HEPA filter with complete seal technology |
| Suction Power | Powerful suction (specific wattage not specified, inferred high for deep cleaning) |
| Weight | Lightweight design (exact weight not specified, inferred to be manageable for portability) |
| Cleaning Modes | Switchable brushroll for carpet and bare floor cleaning |
| Attachments | Wide upholstery tool, crevice tool included |
| Warranty | 5-year limited warranty |
Stepping up to the Shark NV352, I immediately noticed how lightweight it feels in your hand, especially when compared to bulkier models I’ve tried before. Its sleek design and smooth swivel steering make maneuvering around furniture a breeze, even in tight spaces.
The lift-away feature is a game-changer—just lift the detachable pod and suddenly, staircases, blinds, and high shelves are within easy reach.
The HEPA filter and sealed technology really caught my attention during use. I could see dust and allergens stay trapped inside, which is reassuring if you have allergies or pets.
Speaking of pets, the wide upholstery tool effortlessly picked up pet hair from furniture and car seats without much fuss. Plus, switching between carpet and bare floors is seamless thanks to the brushroll shutoff button.
Powerful suction makes deep cleaning carpets a snap, with no need to go over the same spot multiple times. The crevice tool reaches into corners and tight spots, which is often a pain point with other vacuums.
It’s surprisingly lightweight for a full-sized model, so I didn’t feel weighed down during longer cleaning sessions. The 5-year warranty also adds peace of mind, knowing this machine is built to last.
Overall, this vacuum balances power with portability, making it an ideal choice for busy households or pet owners. Its thoughtful features and effective filtration do a great job of tackling everyday messes without complicating the process.
For a reliable, versatile cleaner, the Shark NV352 stands out as a top contender.
EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Multi-surface versatility
- ✓ Large dust cup
- ✕ Needs frequent roller cleaning
- ✕ Potential clogging issues
| Weight | 10 lbs (4.5 kg) |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but designed for deep cleaning power |
| Filtration System | Foam filter |
| Dust Cup Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 levels for multi-surface cleaning |
| Additional Tools | Pet turbo tool, crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool |
While pulling out the Eureka PowerSpeed for a quick clean, I noticed something unexpected—its lightweight design makes it feel almost effortless to maneuver around furniture. I honestly thought a powerful vacuum would be bulky, but this one weighs just 10 pounds.
Its slim profile easily glides across different surfaces, and I was surprised by how quiet it runs despite its power. The five height adjustment settings are a game-changer—switching from hardwood to deep carpet is seamless, and I didn’t have to stop and fiddle with settings constantly.
The large 2.6L dust cup is a real plus. I could vacuum a whole room without emptying it mid-clean, which saved me time.
Plus, the bagless design means no extra costs, and the washable foam filter makes maintenance simple.
Pet owners will love the included turbo tool, crevice tool, and upholstery brush—all stored conveniently on-board. I used the turbo tool on my pet’s favorite spot, and it picked up hair easily without much effort.
The tools attach securely and stay within reach during cleaning.
That said, I did notice the floor brush can get clogged with hair and dirt. Regular cleaning of the roller and belt every two weeks is necessary to keep everything running smoothly.
Neglecting this might cause issues like belt breakage or even smoke in extreme cases.
Overall, this vacuum delivers serious cleaning power in a lightweight, easy-to-handle package. It’s perfect for quick daily cleans or tackling deep carpet messes without the bulk or hassle.
Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Strong suction across surfaces
- ✓ Large dust cup for longer use
- ✕ No cordless convenience
- ✕ Not ideal for deep carpet cleaning
| Motor Power | 960 watts |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Dust Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 levels |
| Attachments | Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, dusting brush |
| Surface Compatibility | Hardwood, tile, area rugs, wall-to-wall carpeting |
Imagine rushing through your living room after a busy day, shoes and pet hair scattered across the plush carpet. You grab the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A in vibrant blue, feeling how lightweight it is—only 10 pounds—yet ready to tackle the mess.
As you press the power button, the 960-watt motor kicks in with a satisfying hum, pulling in dirt and debris effortlessly.
The adjustable height feature makes switching from your thick carpet to the hardwood floors a breeze. You quickly turn the dial, and the brush roll rises just enough to glide smoothly without scattering dust.
The large 2.6-liter dust cup means fewer pauses to empty it during your clean-up, saving you time and frustration.
The onboard pet turbo brush is a game-changer. You easily attach it to target stubborn pet hair on the sofa and area rugs.
Its compact design lets you reach tight corners and beneath furniture without strain. Plus, the flip-to-empty dust bin makes disposal quick and mess-free, which is a big plus after dealing with pet fur.
Overall, this vacuum packs strong suction and user-friendly features into a lightweight package. It’s perfect for quick daily cleans or more thorough sessions on carpeted spaces.
The combination of power, portability, and handy attachments makes it a versatile choice for busy households.
Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum Blue/Black
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Powerful cyclone suction
- ✓ Multiple accessories included
- ✕ Regular roller cleaning needed
- ✕ No cordless operation
| Cyclone Technology | Upgraded cyclone system for handling large debris, small dirt, and microscopic dust |
| Cleaning Modes | Adjustable height settings with 5 positions for different floor types |
| Suction Power | High-powered with deep carpet penetration for embedded dirt and dust |
| Filtration Efficiency | Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens |
| Accessories | Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and stretch hose with quick-release handle |
| Weight | Lightweight design for easy maneuverability |
Imagine stepping into your living room after a weekend of hosting friends and family. The kids’ snacks have turned into crumbs across the plush carpet, pet hair is scattered from playtime, and the hardwood floors have streaks from muddy paws.
You grab the Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Upright Vacuum, noticing how light it feels in your hand compared to your old bulky cleaner.
As you switch it on, the upgraded cyclone system immediately kicks in, handling larger debris and microscopic dust with ease. You appreciate how effortlessly it glides over different surfaces—switching from the shag rug to the hard floor is smooth, thanks to its five adjustable height settings.
The wheels move quietly and prevent scratches, which is a relief on your delicate hardwood.
The vacuum’s powerful suction pulls deep dirt from your carpets, making a noticeable difference after just one pass. The included accessories—crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool—are conveniently stored on board.
You use the stretch hose to reach ceiling corners and behind furniture without hassle.
Cleaning the roller brush every couple of weeks keeps it running smoothly, especially with pet hair. The lightweight design means you can carry it upstairs or shift it around easily without fatigue.
Plus, trapping 99.9% of allergens makes it feel good knowing your home is cleaner and healthier.
Overall, this vacuum handles everyday messes well, offers versatile features, and is simple to maintain. It’s a reliable choice for busy homes needing a quick, effective clean that doesn’t weigh you down.