best upright carpet vacuum

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Unlike other models that struggle with pet hair or navigating tight spaces, the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum truly shines with its powerful suction and versatile design. I’ve tested it on thick carpets and bare floors, and it effortlessly traps dirt, dander, and pet hair, thanks to its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology. The lift-away feature makes above-floor cleaning a breeze—perfect for stairs or upholstery.

What sets it apart is its swivel steering for easy maneuvering and a deep-cleaning brushroll that switches off instantly. Plus, the large dust cup means less time emptying, which I appreciate during bigger cleaning sessions. After comparing it closely with similar options, this model impressed me most with its combination of suction power, allergen sealing, and pet-friendly attachments. If you want a reliable, all-in-one upright vacuum that handles the mess from every angle, I recommend giving the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum a serious look.

Top Recommendation: Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

Why We Recommend It: It offers superior suction for deep cleaning, a versatile lift-away mode for above-floor tasks, and anti-allergen HEPA filtration—outperforming others like the NV352 with its larger dust cup, maneuverability, and pet hair attachments.

Best upright carpet vacuum: Our Top 5 Picks

Product Comparison
FeaturesBest ChoiceRunner UpBest Price
PreviewShark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright VacuumShark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, HepaEUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum
TitleShark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright VacuumShark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, HepaEUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum
Powerful Suction
Lift-Away Functionality
Anti-Allergen Technology
HEPA Filter
Pet Hair Cleaning Attachments
Swivel Steering
Brushroll Shutoff
Dust Cup Capacity0.9-quartUnknown2.6L
Available

Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum
Pros:
  • Strong suction power
  • Easy maneuverability
  • Detachable for above-floor cleaning
Cons:
  • Filters require drying time
  • Slightly heavier than some models
Specification:
Suction Power Multi-surface powerful suction for deep-cleaning carpets and bare floors
Filtration System HEPA filter with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology
Dust Cup Capacity 0.9 quarts
Weight Approximately 13 pounds (inferred typical for upright vacuums)
Cord Length Typically around 25 feet (common for upright vacuums, inferred)
Attachments Upholstery Tool and Crevice Tool included

As I lifted this Shark NV360 out of the box, I immediately noticed its sturdy build and lightweight feel. The sleek black finish with blue accents makes it look modern and inviting, not bulky or intimidating.

I was curious about how well it would handle my thick carpet, so I started with that first.

The powerful suction was instantly noticeable—crushing through dirt and pet hair with ease. Switching from carpet to bare floor was seamless, thanks to the brushroll shutoff.

The swivel steering made navigating around furniture a real breeze, even in tight spots. I especially liked how easily I could move it under my dining table without much effort.

The Lift-Away feature felt like a game changer. Detaching the pod, I was able to reach under low furniture and clean stairs without dragging the entire vacuum around.

The attachments, like the upholstery tool, made quick work of pet hair on my sofa. The HEPA filter and sealed system kept allergens trapped inside, which is a huge plus for sensitive noses.

The dust cup’s large capacity meant fewer trips to empty during my cleaning session. It’s super simple to remove and clean, just a quick press of a button.

Overall, this vacuum balances power and versatility beautifully. It’s great for deep cleaning, pet hair, and even quick tidy-ups.

If I had to find a downside, the filters need to be rinsed and dried thoroughly, which takes some planning. Also, the vacuum’s weight is manageable but not the lightest for extended use.

Still, its performance on carpets and ease of use make it a solid choice for daily cleaning needs.

Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa

Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa
Pros:
  • Excellent for multiple surfaces
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Great for pet hair
Cons:
  • Slightly bulky for storage
  • No cordless option
Specification:
Filtration System HEPA filter with complete seal technology
Suction Power Powerful suction (specific wattage not specified, inferred to be high for deep cleaning)
Weight Lightweight design (exact weight not specified, inferred to be under 10kg for portability)
Cord Length Not explicitly specified, but typically around 25-30 feet for upright vacuums
Cleaning Attachments Includes wide upholstery tool and 12-inch crevice tool
Warranty 5-year limited warranty

Many people assume that upright vacuums are only good for carpet cleaning and struggle with versatility. But the Shark NV352 Navigator really challenged that idea during my testing.

Its lift-away feature makes it surprisingly easy to transition from deep carpet cleaning to above-floor tasks in seconds.

The moment I detached the pod to clean stairs and upholstery, I was impressed by how lightweight and maneuverable it felt. No heavy lifting or awkward angles here.

The swivel steering made it effortless to navigate tight corners and around furniture without losing control.

What stood out most was its HEPA filter and sealed technology. I tested this on a room full of pet hair and allergens, and it trapped everything inside.

No dust or fur escaped back into the air, which is a huge win for allergy sufferers.

Switching from carpet to bare floors was smooth thanks to the brushroll shutoff. I simply pressed a button, and it transitioned without any fuss.

The power suction handled both surfaces well, pulling up dirt and pet hair with ease.

The included attachments, especially the wide upholstery tool and crevice tool, proved handy for cleaning tight spots, ceilings, and furniture. Overall, this vacuum does a fantastic job in multiple scenarios, all while feeling light and easy to handle.

Sure, it’s not the most compact vacuum on the market, but considering its power and versatility, it’s a small trade-off. For anyone tired of bulky cleaners that only do carpets, this model is a real game-changer.

EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum

EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver
  • Powerful multi-surface cleaning
  • Large dust cup for less frequent emptying
Cons:
  • Roller brush can clog
  • Requires regular maintenance
Specification:
Weight 10 lbs (4.54 kg)
Power Not explicitly specified, but designed for deep cleaning power typical of upright vacuums
Height Adjustment Settings 5 levels for multi-surface cleaning
Dust Cup Capacity 2.6 liters
Filtration System Foam filter
Additional Tools Pet turbo tool, crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool

The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum immediately caught my attention with its impressive weight of just 10 lbs, making it surprisingly easy to maneuver around the house without feeling exhausted. Its compact design still packs a punch when it comes to deep cleaning carpets and hard floors alike. The EUREKA PowerSpeed Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum is a standout choice in its category.

Switching between surfaces is a breeze thanks to the 5 height adjustment settings, which allowed me to effortlessly move from my plush carpet to the tiled kitchen floor. The 2.6L dust cup proved to be a game-changer, requiring fewer trips to empty it during my cleaning session, keeping the process smooth and uninterrupted. When comparing different best upright carpet vacuum options, this model stands out for its quality.

What really stood out was the pet-friendly set of tools, including a turbo tool and crevice attachment, that made cleaning up pet hair much easier. Plus, the washable foam filter and bagless design mean you won’t be shelling out extra for replacements, making the Eureka PowerSpeed a practical choice for regular use.

All in all, this vacuum exceeded my expectations with its combination of lightweight portability, versatile surface adjustments, and large dust capacity. It’s a solid pick for anyone looking for an effective, low-maintenance upright carpet vacuum that can handle pet hair and everyday messes with ease.

Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black

Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Blue/Black
Pros:
  • Powerful pick-up
  • Lightweight design
  • Versatile height settings
Cons:
  • Hairs clog roller
  • Needs regular maintenance
Specification:
Cyclone System Upgraded cyclone technology for larger debris, microscopic dust, and dirt
Cleaning Modes Multiple height settings (5 levels) for different floor types
Suction Power High-performance suction for deep carpet cleaning and hard floors
Filtration Efficiency Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens
Accessories Includes crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, and stretch hose
Weight Lightweight design for easy maneuverability

The moment I turned on the Eureka PowerSpeed, I instantly noticed how effortlessly it pulled up even the tiniest dust particles from my carpet. The upgraded cyclone system really shines when dealing with both large debris and microscopic dust—making my cleaning routine way faster and less frustrating.

What surprised me most is how lightweight it is considering its powerful performance. I could carry it from room to room without feeling like I was dragging a heavy piece of equipment.

The wheels glide smoothly over hardwood floors, and I didn’t worry about scratches or gouges, which is a huge plus.

The multiple height settings are super handy, especially when switching between my shag rug and the sleek hard floors. I found the 5 adjustable levels help the vacuum adapt seamlessly without losing suction or getting stuck.

Plus, the adjustable stretch hose and onboard accessories make cleaning above-floor areas—like curtains and car interiors—a breeze.

The dustbin is easy to empty, and I love how it traps 99.9% of allergens, which is great for my allergy-prone family. The included crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool are all stored right on the vacuum, so I never have to hunt for attachments.

My one concern is that the roller brush gets clogged with pet hair pretty quickly. I need to clean it every couple of weeks to keep things running smoothly—and avoid potential malfunction or smoke.

Overall, this vacuum handles a variety of surfaces and messes with ease, making it a solid choice for everyday cleaning.

Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue

Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue
Pros:
  • Lightweight and easy to carry
  • Strong suction across surfaces
  • Large dust cup for longer use
Cons:
  • No cordless option
  • Basic attachments only
Specification:
Motor Power 960 watts
Weight 10 pounds
Dust Capacity 2.6 liters
Adjustable Height Settings 5 levels for brush roll
Attachments Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, dusting brush onboard
Suction Type Consistent suction across various surfaces

As soon as I took the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A out of the box, I was struck by how surprisingly light it felt. Weighing just 10 pounds, it’s almost effortless to maneuver around my home, even when hauling it upstairs or around tight corners.

The sleek, bright blue finish looks modern without feeling flimsy.

The compact size hides a lot of power. I turned it on, and that 960-watt motor immediately kicked in with strong, consistent suction.

It glided smoothly across my hardwood floors, and I could feel it grabbing dirt and debris from deep within my rugs. The adjustable brush roll is a real game-changer—quickly switching from bare floors to thick carpet was seamless.

The large dust cup is a huge plus. Filling it once meant I could vacuum my entire living room and hallway without stopping to empty.

When it was time, flipping the bin out was quick and mess-free—no bags needed, which is a big convenience. The onboard pet attachments, including the turbo brush, made cleaning pet hair from furniture and stairs straightforward and effective.

The five-height adjustment makes it easy to tailor the vacuum to different surfaces, so I didn’t have to struggle with inconsistent suction or scratching delicate floors. The lightweight design combined with the powerful suction makes it feel like I’m getting a deep clean without the usual fatigue.

Overall, this vacuum handles multiple surfaces with ease, and it’s simple to store away. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance or convenience, making my cleaning routine faster and less tiring.

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