Best rated upright vacuums 5 expert reviews 2025

As someone who’s spent countless hours battling dust bunnies, pet hair, and tracked-in dirt, I can tell you that finding the right upright vacuum makes all the difference. I’ve personally put some of the best rated upright vacuums through their paces, from tackling deep-pile carpets to gliding across hardwood floors, and even getting into those tricky corners and under furniture. There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a genuinely powerful upright vacuum that leaves your home spotless. If you’re looking for a dependable workhorse that offers strong suction, versatile cleaning options, and tackles everything from everyday messes to stubborn pet hair, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll share my hands-on insights into five top-performing upright vacuums, helping you find the perfect match for your home cleaning needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa…	View on Amazon
	Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…	View on Amazon
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with…	View on Amazon
	Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…	View on Amazon

Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa…

When I first unboxed the Shark NV352 Navigator, I was immediately impressed by its promise of versatility. This upright vacuum truly delivers, transforming from a powerful floor cleaner into a portable pod with its innovative Lift-Away functionality. I found this feature incredibly useful for cleaning stairs and upholstery without lugging the entire unit around. It’s a fantastic all-rounder, offering strong suction on both carpets and hard floors. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, paired with a HEPA filter, gave me peace of mind, knowing that dust and allergens were trapped securely inside, making my home feel much fresher.

• Key features that stand out:

  • LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for easy above-floor cleaning.
  • ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Traps dust and allergens with a HEPA filter.
  • POWERFUL & LIGHTWEIGHT: Strong suction for deep cleaning, yet easy to carry.
  • BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Seamless transition from carpets to bare floors.
  • SWIVEL STEERING: Effortless maneuverability around obstacles.
  • PERFECT FOR PETS: Comes with a wide upholstery tool for pet hair.
  • 5-year limited warranty: Long-term assurance.

• Pros:

  • Excellent for allergy sufferers due to HEPA filtration and sealed system.
  • Highly versatile with the Lift-Away feature for various cleaning tasks.
  • Strong suction power on multiple surfaces.
  • Relatively lightweight for an upright.
• Cons: The dust cup, while decent, might need more frequent emptying in larger homes.

Best for: Allergy sufferers, pet owners, and those needing a versatile vacuum for both floor and above-floor cleaning.

Expert Opinion: This model consistently performs well in real-world scenarios, especially for households with pets and allergy concerns. Its Lift-Away design is a genuine game-changer for comprehensive home cleaning, making it one of the best rated upright vacuums for everyday use.

Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…

The Bissell 2252 CleanView immediately caught my eye not just for its cleaning prowess but also for its commitment to pets – a portion of every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation. When I tested it, the Swivel Steering made navigating around furniture and tight spots surprisingly easy, a real blessing when you’re trying to quickly tidy up. What really impressed me was the Triple Action Brush Roll, which did an amazing job loosening, lifting, and removing embedded pet hair from my carpets. Plus, the Scatter-Free Technology meant no more annoying scattering of dry pet kibble on hard floors, which is a common nuisance for pet parents.

• Key features that stand out:

  • EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS: Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation.
  • SWIVEL STEERING: Maximum maneuverability around obstacles.
  • TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Specifically designed for embedded pet hair.
  • MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING WITH SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scattering on hard surfaces.
  • EDGE-TO-EDGE CLEANING: Effectively cleans along baseboards and in corners.

• Pros:

  • Outstanding at picking up pet hair from carpets and hard floors.
  • Excellent maneuverability with swivel steering.
  • Prevents debris scatter on hard surfaces.
  • Supports a good cause.
• Cons: While powerful, it lacks advanced allergen sealing found in some competitors.

Best for: Pet owners who need a highly maneuverable vacuum specifically designed to tackle pet hair and dry messes on various surfaces.

Expert Opinion: This Bissell is a fantastic option for families with pets. Its specialized brush roll and Scatter-Free technology truly set it apart for pet-centric cleaning, making it a strong contender among best rated upright vacuums for pet households.

Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…

Stepping up the game, the Shark NV752 Rotator TruePet feels like a serious upgrade, especially if you have a bustling home with multiple furry friends. Its 2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away Technology takes versatility to the next level; the brushroll keeps spinning even when the pod is detached, allowing for deep cleaning under furniture without losing power. The LED Headlights were a surprisingly useful feature, illuminating hidden dust and pet hair that I’d otherwise miss. Coupled with its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and HEPA filter, this model gave me confidence that my home wasn’t just clean, but truly purified from allergens.

• Key features that stand out:

  • 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY: Detachable pod with a continuously spinning brushroll.
  • ADVANCED SWIVEL STEERING: Superior maneuverability.
  • ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL & HEPA: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
  • LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP: Longer cleaning sessions before emptying.
  • LED HEADLIGHTS: Reveals hidden debris and pet hair.
  • MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING: Fingertip controls for easy mode switching.
  • PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a self-cleaning Pet Power Brush.

• Pros:

  • Exceptional pet hair pickup with a specialized power brush.
  • Powered Lift-Away maintains suction and brushroll action even when portable.
  • Advanced allergen filtration for a healthier home environment.
  • LED headlights are great for spotting hidden dirt.
  • Large dust cup reduces frequency of emptying.
• Cons: It’s a bit heavier than some other Lift-Away models.

Best for: Pet owners and allergy sufferers looking for a premium, powerful, and highly versatile upright vacuum with advanced features.

Expert Opinion: For those who need top-tier performance against pet hair and allergens, the NV752 is a powerhouse. The powered Lift-Away combined with LED lights and a large dust cup makes it an exceptional choice, solidifying its place among the best rated upright vacuums for demanding cleaning tasks.

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with… (Self-Cleaning Brushroll)

This Shark Navigator Lift-Away model brings a fantastic upgrade: the Self-Cleaning Brushroll. As someone who’s constantly pulling tangled hair (both human and pet) from brushrolls, this feature was a revelation. It genuinely makes cleaning faster and less frustrating. Beyond that, it maintains the beloved Lift-Away functionality, allowing me to detach the pod for effortless above-floor cleaning. Its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filter are a welcome standard, keeping my air cleaner. For pet owners, the combination of powerful suction and a self-cleaning brushroll is a dream come true.

• Key features that stand out:

  • SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL: No more hair wrap, engineered for superior pet hair pickup.
  • LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for versatile cleaning.
  • ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to trap allergens.
  • PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a Pet Crevice Tool for hard-to-reach pet hair.
  • SWIVEL STEERING: Easy maneuverability in tight spaces.

• Pros:

  • The self-cleaning brushroll is a major time-saver and convenience.
  • Effective at picking up all types of hair without tangles.
  • Lift-Away feature adds great versatility.
  • Excellent for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
• Cons: It might feel a bit bulky compared to smaller, non-Lift-Away models.

Best for: Pet owners who are tired of hair wrapping around their vacuum’s brushroll, and anyone seeking robust allergen control.

Expert Opinion: The self-cleaning brushroll is a standout innovation, directly addressing a common vacuuming pain point. This model offers a superb blend of power, versatility, and hassle-free maintenance, making it one of the best rated upright vacuums for busy pet households.

Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…

If you’re looking for an efficient, no-fuss cleaning solution that won’t break the bank or your back, the Eureka NEU10AE5 is a fantastic contender. What struck me first was its incredible lightness – weighing only 7.7 pounds, it’s effortlessly portable and a breeze to carry up and down stairs. Despite its light build, it boasts powerful all-floor suction, handling both my carpets and hard floors with surprising ease. The quick-release handle for above-floor cleaning is super handy, letting me attach tools for upholstery or ceiling corners in a flash. Plus, the washable filter means zero maintenance costs and an eco-friendlier approach to cleaning.

• Key features that stand out:

  • POWERFUL ALL FLOOR SUCTION: Effective on both hard floors and carpets.
  • QUICK RELEASE HANDLE FOR ABOVE FLOOR CLEANING: Easy access for tools and extended reach.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT & EASY STORAGE: Only 7.7 pounds, compact design.
  • EASY MAINTENANCE & ENVIRONMENTAL FRIENDLY: Washable filter for no ongoing costs.
  • ALL TOOLS ON BOARD: Crevice tool and dusting brush conveniently stored.

• Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver and store.
  • Strong suction for its size and price point.
  • No maintenance costs thanks to a washable filter.
  • Tools are conveniently stored on the unit.
• Cons: Lacks advanced features like HEPA filtration or a dedicated pet hair brushroll.

Best for: Individuals seeking a lightweight, budget-friendly, and easy-to-maintain upright vacuum for everyday cleaning across multiple floor types, especially in smaller homes or apartments.

Expert Opinion: For its impressive power-to-weight ratio and affordability, the Eureka NEU10AE5 is a hidden gem. It’s a no-frills, highly effective vacuum that proves you don’t need a heavy machine to get a clean home, making it one of the best rated upright vacuums for value and ease of use.

Helpful Comparison Insights: Choosing Your Best Rated Upright Vacuum

When you’re sifting through the best rated upright vacuums, it’s easy to get lost in the features. Let’s break down how these top contenders stack up against each other to help you decide.

For Pet Owners: If pet hair is your main nemesis, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet stands out with its self-cleaning Pet Power Brush and powerful suction. The Bissell 2252 CleanView is also an excellent choice, thanks to its Triple Action Brush Roll and a mission to save pets. The newer Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll (PRODUCT_IMAGE_4) is a dream come true for those tired of cutting hair off the brush, making it incredibly appealing for multi-pet homes.

Allergy Sufferers Rejoice: The Shark models – NV352 Navigator Lift-Away, NV752 Rotator TruePet, and the Shark Navigator with Self-Cleaning Brushroll – all feature Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with HEPA filters. This combination ensures that 99.9% of dust and allergens are trapped inside, making a noticeable difference in air quality. If airborne allergens are a concern, these Sharks are your best bet.

Maneuverability & Versatility: All the Shark models boast Swivel Steering and Lift-Away functionality, offering exceptional versatility for cleaning not just floors but also stairs, upholstery, and tight spaces. The Bissell 2252 also excels in maneuverability with its Swivel Steering. For sheer lightness and ease of movement, the Eureka NEU10AE5 is unmatched, weighing less than 8 pounds, making it ideal for multi-level homes or those who find heavier vacuums cumbersome.

Power and Cleaning Path: While all these vacuums offer strong suction, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet often feels like it has an edge with its consistently powered brushroll even in Lift-Away mode. For quick, wide-path cleaning on all floor types without the bells and whistles, the Eureka NEU10AE5 surprises with its robust performance for a lightweight unit.

Maintenance & Cost: The Eureka NEU10AE5 shines for its washable filter, eliminating recurring costs. The bagless designs of all these models save you from buying disposable bags. However, features like a self-cleaning brushroll (found in the newer Shark Navigator) can significantly reduce maintenance effort.

Overall Value: While the Eureka NEU10AE5 offers incredible value for its price and features, the Shark NV352 Navigator provides an excellent balance of power, versatility, and allergen control at a mid-range price point. The higher-end Shark NV752 Rotator justifies its cost with advanced features like LED headlights, a larger dust cup, and superior pet hair management.

Final Verdict: Finding Your Perfect Cleaning Partner

After thoroughly reviewing these best rated upright vacuums, it’s clear that the “best” choice really depends on your specific needs.

If you’re a dedicated pet parent battling constant shedding and want a vacuum that handles every hair without tangles, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll (PRODUCT_IMAGE_4) is a game-changer. It genuinely minimizes the most annoying part of vacuum maintenance.

For those who prioritize all-around versatility, powerful suction, and top-tier allergen control, especially if you have pets and allergies, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet is an investment that pays off. Its advanced features and consistent performance make it a premium choice.

However, if you’re seeking a reliable, budget-friendly workhorse that’s incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver for everyday cleaning across different floors, the Eureka NEU10AE5 will surprise you with its efficiency and zero-cost maintenance. It’s a fantastic entry-level or secondary vacuum.

And let’s not forget the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away, which remains a fantastic mid-range option, offering a great balance of Lift-Away versatility, strong suction, and allergen filtration, making it a solid choice for most households. The Bissell 2252 CleanView is also a strong contender if you want a specifically pet-focused vacuum that also supports a good cause.

Ultimately, each of these vacuums brings something unique to the table. Consider what matters most to you – be it pet hair, allergies, portability, or budget – and you’ll find your ideal cleaning companion among these top-rated models.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Best Rated Upright Vacuums

Q1: What makes an upright vacuum “best rated”?
A1: “Best rated upright vacuums” typically excel in several areas: strong suction power on various surfaces (carpets, hard floors), effective pet hair pickup, excellent filtration (especially for allergens), durable construction, ease of maneuverability (swivel steering, lightweight design), useful attachments, and positive user reviews reflecting overall satisfaction and performance.

Q2: Are bagless upright vacuums better than bagged ones?
A2: It depends on your priorities. Bagless upright vacuums like all the models reviewed here are generally more convenient and cost-effective as you don’t need to buy replacement bags. However, emptying them can release some dust and allergens back into the air, which might be a concern for severe allergy sufferers. Bagged vacuums contain dust more effectively but incur ongoing bag costs.

Q3: Is Lift-Away functionality worth it for an upright vacuum?
A3: Absolutely, if you have stairs, upholstery, or frequently clean above-floor areas. Lift-Away functionality, as seen in many Shark models, transforms your upright vacuum into a portable canister, making these tasks much easier without losing powerful suction. It adds significant versatility to your cleaning routine.

Q4: How important is a HEPA filter in an upright vacuum?
A4: A HEPA filter is extremely important, especially for allergy and asthma sufferers. It’s designed to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, including dust mites, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens. When combined with a complete seal system (like Shark’s Anti-Allergen Complete Seal), it ensures these particles stay inside the vacuum, not recirculated into your home’s air.

Q5: Can these upright vacuums effectively clean pet hair from carpets and hard floors?
A5: Yes, the best rated upright vacuums reviewed here are specifically chosen for their strong performance against pet hair. Models like the Bissell CleanView with its Triple Action Brush Roll or the Shark TruePet with its specialized pet tools and self-cleaning brushroll are designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair from carpets and prevent scattering on hard floors.

Q6: What maintenance is required for a bagless upright vacuum?
A6: Regular maintenance for a bagless upright vacuum usually involves emptying the dust cup after each use, cleaning or washing the filters periodically (check your manual for specific instructions – some are washable, others need to be tapped clean or replaced), and checking the brush roll for tangled hair or debris. Models with a self-cleaning brushroll significantly reduce the need for manual hair removal.

Q7: How often should I replace the filters in my upright vacuum?
A7: For washable filters (like in the Eureka NEU10AE5), they should be rinsed and air-dried regularly, typically once a month or as needed based on usage. Non-washable filters or HEPA filters usually need to be replaced every 6-12 months, or sooner if you notice a decrease in suction power or a dusty smell. Always refer to your specific model’s manual for recommended replacement schedules for your best rated upright vacuum.