Vacuum cleaners have revolutionized the way we maintain cleanliness in our homes. What once was a time-consuming, backbreaking chore is now streamlined and efficient thanks to advancements in vacuum technology. Whether you live in a spacious house or a cozy apartment, the right vacuum cleaner can make a world of difference, not just in cleaning effectiveness but also in improving indoor air quality.
Today’s vacuum cleaners are more powerful, versatile, and user-friendly than ever. You can choose from traditional uprights and canisters, cordless stick vacuums, or even robotic cleaners that do the work for you while you relax. Many modern models come equipped with HEPA filtration systems that capture microscopic allergens, making them ideal for allergy sufferers. Some high-end vacuums even integrate smart features like app controls, automated scheduling, and mapping technology.
But choosing the right vacuum isn’t always easy. Factors like floor type (carpet, hardwood, tile), home size, and specific cleaning needs (pets, allergies, heavy debris) all play a role in determining which model is best for you. Whether you’re tackling pet hair, deep-cleaning carpets, or keeping hardwood floors spotless, there’s a vacuum tailored for the job.
In this guide, we’ve tested and evaluated a range of popular vacuum cleaners based on suction power, filtration quality, noise levels, maneuverability, and overall value. Below is our curated list of the best vacuum cleaners for 2025, along with their rankings and links to check current prices.
Best Vacuum Cleaners of 2025
What to Look For in a Vacuum Cleaner
When selecting a vacuum cleaner, it’s important to understand which features matter most based on your specific needs. Here are the key factors to consider:
1. Suction Power
Measured in air watts (AW) or kilopascals (kPa), suction power determines how well your vacuum can lift and remove dirt. A higher rating is essential for deep-cleaning thick carpets or picking up pet hair.
2. Filtration System
For allergy sufferers, a HEPA filter is non-negotiable. These filters trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, ensuring cleaner air and reducing allergens.
3. Weight and Maneuverability
Lightweight models are easier to carry up stairs and move around furniture. Upright vacuums can be heavier, while stick and robotic models offer more maneuverability.
4. Corded vs. Cordless
Corded vacuums deliver constant power and are better suited for deep cleaning large areas. Cordless vacuums offer flexibility and are perfect for quick cleanups but typically have limited battery life.
5. Noise Level
Most vacuums operate between 70-80 decibels (dB). Quieter vacuums are ideal for homes with young children or pets sensitive to loud noises.
6. Dust Bin Capacity
Smaller bins (under 1 liter) require frequent emptying but can make vacuums lighter. Larger bins are better for bigger homes or heavy cleaning.
7. Attachments and Tools
Brush rolls, crevice tools, and motorized pet tools enhance versatility. A tangle-free brush roll is a must-have for homes with long-haired pets.
Our Testing Process
We evaluated these vacuum cleaners on a range of surfaces, including hardwood floors, low-pile and high-pile carpets, and tile. Each vacuum was tested for:
- Debris pick-up (dust, crumbs, pet hair)
- Maneuverability around furniture
- Ease of maintenance (dust bin emptying, filter cleaning)
- Noise levels
- Battery life (cordless models)
We also consulted customer reviews, manufacturer specs, and compared real-world usage to compile our rankings.
Final Thoughts
The vacuum cleaner market is packed with choices, but the right one depends on your home’s layout, flooring, and cleaning demands. Whether you need a heavy-duty upright for deep carpet cleaning or a nimble stick vacuum for quick messes, our top picks offer something for everyone.
For pet owners, models like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360 and Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum stand out for their exceptional pet hair removal. If portability and storage are priorities, lightweight models like the Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum are hard to beat.
Before you buy, consider your cleaning habits, home size, and floor types. With the right vacuum cleaner, maintaining a spotless home becomes less of a chore and more of a breeze.
Best Vacuum Cleaners
We tested and evaluated dozens of vacuum cleaners to find the top performers for every home and budget. Our research focused on suction power, filtration quality, maneuverability, and noise levels to identify vacuums that clean effectively and provide good value.
Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum
This budget-friendly vacuum offers reliable cleaning performance and useful features that make it a solid choice for everyday household cleaning.
Pros
- Light weight at 8.4 pounds makes cleaning less tiring
- Strong 720W motor provides excellent suction power
- Large 1.7L dust cup requires less frequent emptying
Cons
- Power cord could be longer for larger spaces
- Can be somewhat noisy during operation
- Basic attachment options compared to premium models
We tested this vacuum on multiple surfaces and found it handles both carpets and hard floors effectively. The suction power impressed us, picking up pet hair and debris with minimal passes.
The detachable handle proved incredibly useful for cleaning stairs and reaching cobwebs in corners. We appreciated how the upholstery tool cleaned our furniture, though we wished for more specialized attachments.
The bagless design made emptying simple with its quick-release button. The washable filter saved us money on replacements, and cleaning it was straightforward. While the 18-foot cord worked fine in smaller rooms, we needed to switch outlets when cleaning larger spaces.
This vacuum felt sturdy during use despite its lightweight construction. The smooth-rolling wheels made it easy to maneuver around furniture. Operating controls were simple and responsive, though the noise level might be noticeable for some users.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360
We recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV360 for its excellent suction power, versatile design, and reliable pet hair removal capabilities at a reasonable price point.
Pros
- Exceptional suction picks up deeply embedded dirt
- Detachable pod makes cleaning stairs and furniture easy
- HEPA filtration traps allergens effectively
Cons
- Heavy to carry up stairs at nearly 16 pounds
- Dust cup requires frequent emptying during big cleaning jobs
- Can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces
The Navigator’s standout feature is its lift-away canister design. We pressed the button to detach the pod and reached high corners and under furniture with minimal effort. The suction remained consistent whether we used it as an upright or in portable mode.
Pet owners will appreciate this vacuum’s cleaning performance. We ran it over dog beds and cat trees, and the specialized pet tools grabbed embedded fur without getting tangled. The sealed HEPA system trapped fine dust and dander, leaving the air noticeably cleaner.
Setting up took us just minutes out of the box. The control switches feel solid, and the clear dust cup lets us see when it needs emptying. During our tests, the brush roll transition from carpet to hardwood was smooth, though the unit felt slightly bulky when turning around furniture.
Bissell CleanView Compact
The Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo delivers impressive suction power in a lightweight frame, making it an excellent choice for apartment dwellers and small homes.
Pros
- Powerful suction tackles tough dirt and pet hair
- Lightweight design at only 10 pounds
- Versatile attachments for multiple surfaces
Cons
- Small dust bin needs frequent emptying
- Can be loud during operation
- Power cord could be longer
We tested this vacuum on various surfaces and found its suction power surprisingly strong for its compact size. The scatter-free technology worked well on hardwood floors, preventing debris from flying everywhere during cleaning sessions.
The quick-release extension wand proved invaluable for reaching cobwebs and dust in ceiling corners. Its turbo brush attachment easily removed pet hair from upholstery, though we needed to clean the brush roll frequently to maintain peak performance.
Storage is a breeze with this vacuum’s compact frame. We appreciate how it fits neatly in small closets while still offering full-size cleaning capability. The foam filter catches fine dust effectively, though it requires regular cleaning to maintain suction strength.
Bissell CleanView Compact
We recommend the Bissell CleanView Compact for small spaces and apartments due to its impressive suction power and lightweight design.
Pros
- Exceptionally lightweight at under 8 pounds
- Strong suction performance for its size
- Easy to store and maneuver in tight spaces
Cons
- Small dirt container needs frequent emptying
- All-plastic construction feels less durable
- Not suitable for high-pile or shag carpets
The CleanView Compact impressed us with its cleaning abilities during testing. Its scatter-free technology picked up debris effectively on hard floors, while the rotating brush roll made quick work of low-pile carpets. The 23-foot power cord gave us plenty of reach without constantly switching outlets.
Storage proved simple in our small test apartment. The compact frame tucked neatly into a closet corner. We appreciated the removable extension wand for reaching cobwebs and dust in ceiling corners. The push-button dirt release kept our hands clean during emptying.
Moving between rooms felt effortless thanks to its lightweight design. The vacuum glided smoothly across different floor surfaces. Pet hair cleanup exceeded our expectations, though the small dirt cup filled quickly in heavily soiled areas. The washable filter helps reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Ljuren Cordless Vacuum
We found this lightweight stick vacuum offers excellent value with its strong suction and versatile cleaning abilities.
Pros
- Impressive 80,000 RPM motor delivers powerful suction
- LED lights help spot hidden dirt and debris
- Long 35-minute runtime from removable battery
Cons
- Small 0.5L dust capacity needs frequent emptying
- Limited effectiveness on thick carpets
- Build quality feels less premium than high-end brands
The Ljuren vacuum impressed us with its cleaning performance on both hard floors and low-pile carpets. Its LED brush head lit up dust we couldn’t see before, while the swivel steering made it simple to clean around furniture legs and tight corners.
During testing, the 2200mAh battery lasted through multiple cleaning sessions. We appreciate how the battery detaches for charging, letting us store the vacuum separately. The HEPA filtration system trapped fine particles effectively, leaving rooms noticeably fresher.
The vacuum converts quickly into a handheld unit for cleaning upholstery and stairs. We like the included attachments for different surfaces. The push-button controls feel intuitive, though the plastic construction doesn’t match premium competitors. Still, the cleaning power and features offer good value for everyday household use.
Tikom V500 Cordless Vacuum
We recommend the Tikom V500 for its impressive 40Kpa suction power and versatile cleaning capabilities that make it an excellent choice for homes with pets and various floor types.
Pros
- Exceptional suction power tackles tough pet hair
- Smart LED display shows battery life and settings
- Quick-release dust bin empties cleanly
Cons
- 32-minute runtime may limit large home cleaning
- Takes 4-5 hours to fully charge
- Slightly louder than competing models
The V500’s motorized brush head glides smoothly across our hardwood floors and seamlessly transitions to carpet. The LED headlights reveal dust we’d typically miss, especially under furniture and in dark corners.
We appreciate the intuitive touch screen display that lets us monitor battery life and adjust suction power on the fly. The wall-mounted charging dock keeps the vacuum organized and ready for use while taking up minimal space.
Converting between stick and handheld modes takes seconds, making it perfect for spot cleaning. The anti-tangle brush head prevents hair wrapping, while the HEPA filtration system captures fine dust particles effectively during our cleaning sessions.
The lightweight design makes it easy to carry up stairs and maneuver around furniture. We find the 1.3L dust bin capacity sufficient for multiple rooms before needing to empty, and the one-touch release system keeps our hands clean during disposal.
Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum
The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Vacuum delivers exceptional pet hair removal and maneuverability at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Powerful suction removes embedded pet hair
- Smooth swivel steering around furniture
- Scatter-free technology contains debris
Cons
- Dust bin needs frequent emptying
- Power cord could be longer
- Slightly heavy to carry upstairs
We tested this vacuum extensively on both carpets and hardwood floors. The triple action brush roll proved remarkably effective at pulling up stubborn pet hair that our previous vacuum missed. The suction power impressed us, especially considering the reasonable price point.
The swivel steering feature makes a noticeable difference in daily use. We navigated around chair legs and under coffee tables with minimal effort. The edge-to-edge cleaning design reached deep into corners and along baseboards, areas that typically collect dust and pet hair.
Clean-up stays neat with the scatter-free technology. The vacuum contains debris instead of shooting it across hard floors like many other models we’ve used. The specialized pet tools handled upholstery well, though we noticed the dust bin fills quickly when tackling heavy pet hair. The clear bin design lets us monitor debris levels easily.
The ergonomic handle design reduced strain during extended cleaning sessions. Our team appreciated the smooth transitions between floor types without manual height adjustments. This vacuum brings premium features to a mid-range price point.
Eureka PowerSpeed Vacuum
The Eureka PowerSpeed offers excellent value with strong suction and versatile cleaning abilities at an affordable price point.
Pros
- Lightweight frame makes cleaning stairs and moving between rooms easy
- Large 2.6L dust cup reduces emptying frequency
- Includes useful attachments for pet hair and various surfaces
Cons
- Noise level reaches 88 dB during operation
- Brush roll needs frequent cleaning to prevent clogs
- Power cord could be longer for larger rooms
We tested this vacuum on multiple surfaces and found it performs exceptionally well on both carpets and hard floors. The 5 height adjustment settings let us customize the suction power for different floor types.
The pet turbo tool proved highly effective at removing stubborn pet hair from upholstery. During our testing, the vacuum picked up an impressive amount of embedded dirt and debris that wasn’t visible to the naked eye.
The washable filter system saves money on replacements and maintains strong suction power. While cleaning our test space, we appreciated the onboard storage for attachments, though accessing them required some awkward reaching.
The dust cup empties with a simple button press, preventing messy cleanup situations. In our experience, the 10-pound weight strikes an ideal balance between stability and maneuverability.
Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum
We recommend this budget-friendly stick vacuum for quick cleanups and light-duty tasks in small spaces.
Pros
- Ultra-lightweight at only 3.7 pounds
- Converts between stick and handheld modes
- Strong suction for its size
Cons
- Small dirt cup needs frequent emptying
- Not ideal for deep carpet cleaning
- Short power cord limits reach
The vacuum’s standout feature is its incredibly light weight. We found it effortless to carry up and down stairs or maneuver around furniture. The ability to switch between stick and handheld modes proved handy for cleaning different surfaces.
During our testing, the suction power impressed us on hard floors and low-pile carpets. Pet hair and debris disappeared quickly with minimal passes. The crevice tool worked well for reaching tight spots between cushions and along baseboards.
Storage is a breeze thanks to the compact design. We appreciate how little closet space it occupies compared to full-size vacuums. The bagless dirt cup detaches easily for emptying, though its small capacity means more frequent trips to the trash bin.
Dirt Devil Endura Lite Vacuum
The Dirt Devil Endura Lite offers strong suction and versatility at an affordable price point, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious shoppers.
Pros
- Impressive suction power on both carpets and hard floors
- Lightweight design at only 9 pounds
- Quick-release dirt cup empties with one touch
Cons
- Short cord limits cleaning range
- Height might be uncomfortable for taller users
- Louder operation at 80 decibels
We tested this vacuum across multiple floor types and found the suction remained consistent thanks to the Endura filtration system. The brush roll transitions smoothly between carpets and hard floors, picking up everything from fine dust to larger debris.
The 6-foot extension wand proved invaluable for reaching cobwebs and dust in ceiling corners. Its onboard tools, including a crevice tool and dusting brush, clean tight spaces effectively. The bagless design with washable filter cuts down on maintenance costs.
Moving this vacuum around the house feels effortless due to its compact frame. The dirt cup releases easily and rinses clean without hassle. While the cord could be longer, the vacuum’s lightweight build compensates by making it simple to carry between outlets.
Buying Guide
Selecting a vacuum cleaner requires careful consideration of several key features. We recommend examining the suction power, measured in Air Watts (AW) or kilopascals (kPa), as this determines cleaning effectiveness.
Filter quality plays a vital role in capturing allergens and dust particles. HEPA filters trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, making them ideal for allergy sufferers.
Key Features to Consider:
- Cord vs cordless design
- Weight and maneuverability
- Dust bin capacity
- Noise level (measured in decibels)
- Attachments included
- Battery life (for cordless models)
The cleaning surface type influences your choice. Hard floors need different brush heads than carpets, while some models offer adjustable settings for both.
Consider the size of your living space. Larger homes benefit from longer power cords or extended battery life in cordless models. Smaller apartments might prioritize compact storage.
Maintenance Requirements:
- Filter replacement schedule
- Dust bin emptying frequency
- Brush roll cleaning needs
- Warranty coverage
Your budget affects available options. Higher-priced models often include advanced features like smart sensors and automated settings, while mid-range options balance functionality with cost.
We suggest testing the weight and maneuverability in person. A vacuum that feels comfortable during brief use might cause fatigue during longer cleaning sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common vacuum cleaner questions center on selecting the right type, maintaining filters, and matching specific cleaning needs with appropriate features.
What are the differences between cordless and corded vacuum cleaners?
Cordless vacuum cleaners offer freedom of movement and convenience, running on rechargeable batteries for 20-60 minutes per charge.
Corded models provide consistent power and unlimited runtime, making them ideal for large homes and deep cleaning sessions.
Cordless units weigh less but have smaller dust bins, while corded vacuums offer more suction power at a lower price point.
How often should I replace the filter in my vacuum cleaner?
HEPA filters need replacement every 6-12 months, depending on usage frequency and home conditions.
Pre-motor filters should be cleaned monthly and replaced every 3-6 months for optimal performance.
Regular filter maintenance prevents dust recirculation and maintains strong suction power.
What should I consider when choosing a vacuum cleaner for pet hair?
A vacuum with specialized pet attachments, like tangle-free brushrolls and motorized pet tools, will remove hair more effectively.
Strong suction power and sealed filtration systems help capture dander and prevent allergens from escaping.
Look for models with large-capacity bins to handle high volumes of pet hair without frequent emptying.
What features differentiate a robotic vacuum cleaner from a traditional one?
Robotic vacuums use sensors and mapping technology to navigate rooms automatically, with programmable schedules and smartphone controls.
These units excel at maintenance cleaning but have smaller bins and less powerful suction than traditional vacuums.
Many robot vacuums include features like self-emptying bins, virtual boundaries, and multi-room mapping capabilities.
How do vacuum cleaner specifications relate to cleaning efficiency?
Suction power, measured in air watts (AW) or kilopascals (kPa), directly affects dirt pickup performance.
Bin capacity impacts cleaning duration, while filtration ratings determine allergen capture effectiveness.
Motor wattage alone doesn’t indicate cleaning performance – design efficiency plays a crucial role.
Can a vacuum cleaner designed for home use be effective for cleaning cars?
Home vacuums with the right attachments, especially crevice tools and upholstery brushes, work well for car interiors.
Cordless stick vacuums and handheld units offer better maneuverability in tight vehicle spaces.
A vacuum with strong suction and good attachments matters more than whether it’s specifically marketed for car use.
