Best vacuum cleaners for 2026
Updated June 2026Independently researchedNo paid placement.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV350 is the best upright vacuum for most homes, balancing strong suction, a detachable canister, and a budget-friendly price.
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 suits pet owners who want premium power, the Hoover WindTunnel 3 is the value pick for basic cleaning, the Bissell PowerForce Helix is a lightweight editor’s favorite, and the Kenmore Elite 31140 is a solid all-rounder with extra reach.
Upright vacuums remain the workhorse of home cleaning, no bending, no dragging a separate canister, and usually the strongest suction in the category. But the market is crowded with models that differ in weight, filtration, and how well they handle pet hair or tall carpets. The right choice depends on your floor types, whether you have stairs, and how much you’re willing to spend. To narrow it down, we researched owner feedback, expert reviews, and brand reputation. We focused on suction consistency, ease of maneuverability, filter maintenance, and real-world durability. The picks below range from budget-friendly to premium, but all have proven track records for reliability and cleaning power.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV350
The do-it-all default
4.7out of 5The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV350 is the most versatile upright we’ve seen in its price range. It offers strong suction on carpets and hard floors, plus a detachable canister for cleaning stairs and above-floor areas. The HEPA filter and anti-allergen seal make it a great pick for allergy sufferers, though the dust cup can be a bit messy to empty.
Price range: $$
Check price on Amazon →Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum
Premium power for pet owners
4.8out of 5The Dyson Ball Animal 3 is a beast on carpets and pet hair, with self-adjusting cleaner head that seals to the floor for maximum suction. The ball technology makes it easy to steer, and the whole-machine HEPA filtration captures allergens. It’s pricey and heavy, but if you have shedding pets and large carpeted areas, it’s worth the investment.
Price range: $$$$
Check price on Amazon →Hoover WindTunnel 3 Upright Vacuum UH30300
The budget workhorse
4.4out of 5The Hoover WindTunnel 3 is a no-frills upright that delivers solid suction and a wide cleaning path at a very budget-friendly price. It’s not the most refined machine, but it handles everyday dirt and pet hair well. The lack of a HEPA filter and the somewhat flimsy build are the main trade-offs.
Price range: $
Check price on Amazon →| Award | Model | Our score | Price | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best overall | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum NV350 | 4.7 / 5 | $$ | Anyone who wants one vacuum that handles carpets, hard floors, and above-floor cleaning wi | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum | 4.8 / 5 | $$$$ | Pet owners with medium to large carpeted homes who want top-tier suction and don’t mind th | Check price → |
| Best value | Hoover WindTunnel 3 Upright Vacuum UH30300 | 4.4 / 5 | $ | Budget-conscious shoppers who need a dependable upright for basic carpet and hard floor cl | Check price → |
| Editor's pick | Bissell PowerForce Helix Upright Vacuum 2199A | 4.5 / 5 | $ | Renters, small apartments, or anyone who wants a lightweight vacuum that’s easy to store a | Check price → |
| Runner-up | Kenmore Elite 31140 Upright Vacuum | 4.6 / 5 | $$$ | Homeowners who want a feature-rich vacuum that handles multiple floor types and above-floo | Check price → |
The picks in detail
2. Dyson Ball Animal 3 Upright Vacuum: Premium power for pet owners
Runner-upThe Dyson Ball Animal 3 is a beast on carpets and pet hair, with self-adjusting cleaner head that seals to the floor for maximum suction. The ball technology makes it easy to steer, and the whole-machine HEPA filtration captures allergens. It’s pricey and heavy, but if you have shedding pets and large carpeted areas, it’s worth the investment.
Pros
- Self-adjusting cleaner head for all floor types
- Excellent pet hair pickup on carpets
- Easy to steer with ball technology
Cons
- Heavy and bulky to carry upstairs
- Dust bin is small for a large home
Who it’s for
Pet owners with medium to large carpeted homes who want top-tier suction and don’t mind the higher price.Who should skip it
You have mostly hard floors or a small apartment, or you need a vacuum that’s easy to lift and carry.3. Hoover WindTunnel 3 Upright Vacuum UH30300: The budget workhorse
Best valueThe Hoover WindTunnel 3 is a no-frills upright that delivers solid suction and a wide cleaning path at a very budget-friendly price. It’s not the most refined machine, but it handles everyday dirt and pet hair well. The lack of a HEPA filter and the somewhat flimsy build are the main trade-offs.
Pros
- Strong suction for the price
- Wide cleaning path covers more floor quickly
Cons
- Plastic build feels less durable
- Cord is a bit short for large rooms
Who it’s for
Budget-conscious shoppers who need a dependable upright for basic carpet and hard floor cleaning.Who should skip it
You have allergies or need a vacuum that will last through heavy daily use in a large home.4. Bissell PowerForce Helix Upright Vacuum 2199A: Lightweight and easy to live with
Editor's pickThe Bissell PowerForce Helix is a lightweight, bagless upright that’s surprisingly capable for the price. It’s easy to push and carry, and the Helix system helps prevent clogs. It lacks some premium features like a HEPA filter, but for smaller homes or quick cleanups, it’s a smart, budget-friendly pick.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- Helix system reduces clogs
- Simple to assemble and maintain
Cons
- Suction can drop on thick carpets
- Dust cup capacity is small
Who it’s for
Renters, small apartments, or anyone who wants a lightweight vacuum that’s easy to store and carry.Who should skip it
You have large carpeted areas or need strong suction for deep cleaning pet hair.5. Kenmore Elite 31140 Upright Vacuum: The capable all-rounder
Runner-upThe Kenmore Elite 31140 is a well-rounded upright with a long reach, a powered brush roll, and a HEPA filter. It’s great for homes with a mix of floors and above-floor cleaning needs. It’s a bit heavy and the dust cup is on the small side, but it’s a reliable performer that won’t disappoint.
Pros
- HEPA filter and sealed system
- Powered brush roll for pet hair
- Long cord and hose reach
- Good on both carpet and hard floors
Cons
- Dust cup is small
- Brush roll can be hard to clean
Who it’s for
Homeowners who want a feature-rich vacuum that handles multiple floor types and above-floor tasks without a premium price tag.Who should skip it
You have a small home or need a lightweight vacuum for frequent stair cleaning.Best for specific needs
Best for pet hair
If you have shedding pets, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 is the top choice. Its self-adjusting cleaner head and powerful suction dig deep into carpets to lift embedded fur, and the whole-machine HEPA filtration traps allergens. The Shark Navigator is a more affordable alternative, but the Dyson’s dedicated pet hair engineering gives it the edge. Our pick: Dyson Ball Animal 3.
Best for small apartments
For tight spaces, the Bissell PowerForce Helix is the winner. It’s lightweight, easy to store, and cheap enough that you won’t mind the occasional bump. The Hoover WindTunnel 3 is also a solid budget pick, but the Bissell’s lighter weight makes it easier to carry up stairs or between rooms. Our pick: Bissell PowerForce Helix.
Best for stairs and above-floor cleaning
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV350 excels here because you can detach the canister and carry it with you. That makes cleaning stairs, upholstery, and ceilings much easier than with a standard upright. The Kenmore Elite also has a long hose, but the Shark’s lift-away design is more convenient. Our pick: Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV350.
Our verdict
For most homes, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV350 is the best all-around upright, it’s affordable, versatile, and handles daily cleaning with ease. If you have pets and a bigger budget, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 is worth the splurge. On a tight budget, the Hoover WindTunnel 3 and Bissell PowerForce Helix both deliver solid performance for the price. Whichever you choose, you’ll be getting a reliable upright that makes floor care a lot less of a chore.