12 Best Vacuum Cleaners for 2021

We developed our own performance challenges to put vacuums to the test against real world messes.

As a result, we’ve identified what we think are the best vacuums for 2021 based on objective data, in-house tests, and expert analysis.

Whether you need a vacuum for carpet, pet hair, hardwood floors, home, car, or elsewhere, we’ve tested the best vacuums on the market.

So with that said, let’s dive in!

Find the Best Vacuum Type for Your Home

Click the links below to jump to the specific vacuum type that sounds best for your home cleaning needs.

1. Best Cordless Vacuum: Dyson V11 Torque Drive
   vacuums with battery power for convenience and ease of use
2. Best Robot Vacuum: Roomba S9+
   vacuums that clean your home automatically
3. Best Vacuum for Pet Hair: Dyson Ball Animal 2
   vacuums that are great at removing pet hair
4. Best Handheld Vacuum: Shark Pet Perfect 2
   corded and cordless vacuums that are great for small messes
5. Best Vacuum for Hardwood Floors: Dyson V10 Absolute
   vacuums that can clean your hardwood floors without damaging them
6. Best Upright Vacuum: Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2
   traditional upright vacuums that are versatile and can handle a variety of cleaning tasks
7. Best Stick Vacuum: Dyson V10 Motorhead
   lighter weight, convenient, and portable stick vacuums
8. Best Canister Vacuum: Miele Classic C1
   high-performing canister vacuums for a deep clean
9. Best Car Vacuum: Dyson V7 Trigger
   small portable vacuums that are great at cleaning car interiors
10. Best Vacuum for Carpet: Dyson Ball Animal 2
    vacuums that can handle carpet cleaning of all types
11. Best Vacuum for Allergies: Dyson Cinetic Big Ball Allergy
    vacuums with high-performance filters and design features to reduce allergies
12. Best Budget Vacuums: Hoover WindTunnel T-Series
    value vacuums that are priced below $300, $200, and $100

If you would rather watch than read we’ve got our Best Vacuum Cleaners video below:

Best Cordless Vacuum

Ideal for… convenience, easy to use, and grab & go cleaning

Cordless vacuums have come a long way in recent years. As a result, many cordless vacuum cleaners offer cleaning performance that is just as good (and even better in some cases) as traditional upright and canister vacuums.

The best part about cordless?

One word, convenience.

It just doesn’t get any easier than the cordless design.

For example, you can easily take the vacuum from room to room, up stairs, or even out to the car. While the battery length does limit how long you can clean, many are still able to run for 30-60 minutes, which is sufficient for cleaning most homes.

But what about performance?

In our cleaning tests, we have seen cordless vacuums perform just as well as many popular upright and other corded vacuums. The Dyson V-series vacuums are among the best performers we have tested to date.

For example, all Dyson V-series vacuums scored debris removal scores of 95-99%.

Downsides?

The most significant downside is the battery. Naturally, you do have to charge it, and some may need to have a battery replacement over the life of the vacuum.

That said, some batteries can last longer, depending on the battery, manufacturer, and how you use your vacuum. Dyson’s V10 and V11 models are supposed to last the life of the vacuum, so you shouldn’t need to replace a battery.

You should buy a cordless vacuum if…

• You want convenience – the convenience of a cordless vacuum cleaner is virtually un-matched in the world of vacuums (except for maybe from a robot vacuum). As a result, they are the perfect choice for quick grab-and-go cleaning sessions.
• You want lots of cleaning attachments – many cordless vacuums come with a variety of cleaning attachments and accessories. As a result, these vacuums offer a lot of value, since it lets you clean more places around your home more easily.

You should not buy a cordless vacuum if…

• You want to vacuum for a long time – if you tend to vacuum for a long period of time, say 60 minutes or more, you may want to avoid the cordless vacuum. For instance, even the best cordless vacuum cleaners only run for around 60 minutes at a time (with some variance, depending on cleaning mode and attachments). Therefore, if you tend to clean for a longer period of time you’ll probably be happier with a corded vacuum (click here to jump to the best upright vacuums).

Our Cordless Vacuum Picks

If you want to save a few bucks, opting for a more budget-minded vacuum is definitely a good choice. While you won’t get quite the raw performance that the best cordless vacuum has, the Dyson V10 is a worthy runner up to the V11.

MORE – For a more detailed comparison of cordless vacuums see our best cordless stick vacuums guide, which shows the best 8 cordless vacuums for a variety of cleaning jobs (pet hair, carpets, hardwood, budget picks, etc.)

Best Robot Vacuum

Ideal for… convenience, you have a busy life, simpler floor plans

When robot vacuums first came out they were generally bulky, expensive, and (let’s face it) not very smart. In recent years robot vacuums have become increasingly popular, having come down in price and increased in performance.

How do robot vacuums clean?

Robot vacuums are designed to roll around an area, making navigational markers as it sucks up debris across the floor. Many models have a spinning side brush, like the Roomba i7+, to help capture debris along edges and corners. 

More advanced models are able to digitally map your home, clean specific rooms, integrate with voice assistants (like Google and Amazon), schedule cleaning, and even empty their own dust bin.

What do you get with a robot?

Robot vacuums today provide convenience, automatic cleaning runs (with models that have scheduling), and more intelligent navigation, using infrared light, self emptying bins, cameras, and sensors (varies by model) . 

Most robot vacuums come with some kind of virtual barrier so that you can easily block off sensitive areas, like for pet food, making a robot vacuum function more like how a real user would. 

Robot Vacuum Cleaning Performance

Performance of robot vacuums may vary from brand to brand, but performance on hardwoods (and most low pile carpet) tend to yield the best results. 

In the Modern Castle cleaning lab, we put the most popular robots to the test and tend to see some trends.

For example, Roomba models tend to be among the best performers with the budget-friendly Roomba 675, up to their newest top-tier performer, Roomba S9+.

RELATED: Click here to check out the Best Roomba and full list of Roomba reviews.

Any Robot Disadvantages?

The biggest disadvantage to a robot vacuum is probably the babysitting.

For example, top-tier robot vacuums can navigate most floor plans with ease, but more budget-friendly models could need a little help from you.

As a result, this might mean tracking down your robot after it fails to return to its base after a cleaning cycle. 

Without memory mapping, advanced sensors / cameras, or navigational beacons, less expensive robot vacuums are more prone to getting stuck and needing your help.

Effective? Yes.

Efficient? Not as much.

You should buy a robot vacuum if…

• You want convenience – A robot vacuum can be pre-programmed to clean your floors, whether you’re home or away. Advanced models, including Roomba’s S9+ and i7+, can empty their own dust bin, making them even more hands off.
• You have a simpler floor plan or you can have a bigger budget – More budget friendly robot vacuums tend to struggle more with navigational issues and sufficient run time. So if you have a simple floor plan you can probably get away with a less expensive robot. However, if you have a more complex layout in your home or just more square footage, you’ll more likely want to step up to the higher end up robots. This will yield a robot with better navigation, run time, and physical awareness of your space.

You should not buy a robot vacuum if…

• You don’t like hide and seek – Part of having a robot vacuum is tracking it down when it finds itself in trouble. This could mean finding it with a dead battery in some remote corner of the house, or shouting an error at you from the bathroom where it got tangled up with your shag rug. Robot vacuums can be incredibly handy, but they also may need you to come and rescue them from time to time.
• You don’t want to replace batteries – Similar to a cordless vacuum, a robot vacuum will also require battery replacements, due to its cordless nature. They will generally last several years, but it could be something to keep in mind if you’re concerned with added recurring costs. 

Our Robot Vacuum Picks

If you want to save a few bucks and go with more of a value oriented robot, get the Roomba e5.

If the e5 and S9+ are simply out of budget, go with the Roomba 675. It’s Roomba’s most budget friendly option, while still being an above average performer.

Best Vacuum for Pet Hair

Ideal for… removing pet hair from carpets, hard surfaces, and upholstery

Shopping for the best vacuum for pet hair comes with a different set of needs than people who don’t have furry friends. Whether you’ve got dogs, cats, or something in between, it’s important to select a vacuum with the right pet features.

What should you look for in a pet vacuum?

Pet-friendly homes generally benefit from larger capacity dust bins, HEPA filtration, and add-ons that are designed specifically for capturing pet hair (like motorized roller brushes or tangle-free attachments). 

One of the best models for a large capacity dust bin is the Dyson Ball Animal 2 which can hold over 2 quarts of debris.

How to Remove Pet Hair

Pet hair can be especially tricky to remove, especially from upholstery or high pile carpet, where it can sink deep into the fibers.

Motorized brushrolls for pet hair tend to be designed in a way that helps to reduce tangles and suck up more of the hair.

RELATED – We’re covering full-size vacuums below, but see here if you need a handheld pet hair vacuum.

As a result, the best pet vacuums are those that include motorized brushrolls capable of pulling pet hair to the surface of carpets, upholstery, and other fabrics.

Upright Vacuums for Pet Hair

Upright vacuums make excellent options for cleaning up pet hair since they have larger capacity dust bins and offer an unlimited run time, unlike more compact or convenient cordless vacuum cleaners. 

PROS

• Upright vacuums generally have stronger suction, compared to more compact vacuums and also typically come with a number of on-board accessories.
• This can be pretty handy when you transition from cleaning pet hair in the carpet to pet hair on the couch.

CONS

• At times, a corded upright may be hard to manage and could be difficult for more versatile cleaning, like cleaning stairs or small crevices.

Cordless Vacuums for Pets

While some of our favorite vacuums for pet hair are corded upright models, that’s not to say that there are not good cordless models. Cordless models come with a few notable pros and cons. 

PROS

• A cordless vacuum for pet hair makes it quick and easy to clean up messes, regardless of where they are in the house.
• Cordless pet hair vacuums are also a great option for vacuuming pet hair out of your car, like the Dyson V11 Animal and Dyson V10 Animal.

CONS

• Cordless models have a limited run time and may need recharging before the job is done.
• Cordless vacuums will also need to have their battery replaced within ~2-3 years (exact longevity varies by manufacturer, model, and use). 

Robot Vacuums for Pet Hair

Robot vacuums are another solid choice for cleaning pet hair. Robots are autonomous and many models do an especially good job of cleaning pet hair, especially on hardwoods and lower pile carpets.

PROS

• Robot vacuums can be scheduled ahead of time to clean up your pet messes and many models can identify high traffic areas and spend a little extra time cleaning those spaces. 
• See our complete guide on the Best Roomba for Pet Hair here.

CONS

• Robot vacuums have one of the smallest dust bin capacities of any other vacuum types.

Which vacuum for pet hair is right for you? 

• Upright vacuum for pet hair – An upright pet hair vacuum, like the Dyson Ball Animal 2 or the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro have larger capacity dust bins, great filtration, numerous attachments, and corded power for fade-free suction. Keep in mind, upright models may be harder to maneuver and could have brushrolls that allow pet hair to tangle. (Look for “Tangle-Free” brushrolls where available). 
• Cordless vacuum for pet hair– Cordless vacuums for pet hair are nice if you do mostly quick pick-ups or want to quickly carry your vacuum around the house. The Dyson V11 and Dyson V10 are cordless stick vacuums models. Cordless models are lightweight and easy to maneuver, but also come with limited battery life and a smaller dust bin (generally).
• Robot vacuum for pet hair– Robot vacuums, like the Roomba e5, can be excellent for pet hair. They offer scheduled cleanings, autonomous spot cleaning, and hands-free convenience. As a potential downside, these vacuums also tend to have a smaller dust bin capacity so you may need to empty the bin more frequently if you have a high level of pet hair.

Our Best Pet Vacuum Picks

If you prefer a cordless option, go with the Dyson V11 Animal.

If you need something that can help maintain clean homes every day without much help from your end, get iRobot’s Roomba i7+.

Best Handheld Vacuum

Ideal for… on-the-go cleaning, small messes, and cleaning cars

Handheld vacuums are lightweight, compact, and easy for quick messes. Most handheld vacuums are also less expensive that full upright or even stick vacuums. If you don’t need something primarily for cleaning floors, handheld vacuums can be an excellent choice.

RELATED: Need a vacuum on a budget? Click here to see our recommendations for the Best Cheap Vacuum.

Is a corded or cordless handheld vacuum better?

Handheld vacuums may be corded or cordless and there are advantages and disadvantages to each.

• Corded vacuums have unlimited run time (as long as they are connected to power), but have the disadvantage of being tied to an outlet. This can make it difficult to clean your car, stairs, or other remote places without dragging an extension cord behind you.
• Cordless vacuums have the benefit of convenience since they are not tied to a power outlet. Cordless handhelds are excellent for quick cleanups, but bear in mind, the run time is limited and may need charging frequently (exact run time varies by model).

Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Performance

Handheld vacuums are smaller and more compact compared to most other vacuum styles, but smaller size doesn’t always mean diminished performance.

For example, check out the performance of the Shark Pet Perfect 2. This vacuum is small, but still has an overall cleaning score of 98%.

The performance of any handheld vacuum depends on a few factors.

• Cleaning Path Width: Some handheld vacuums have a larger cleaning path than others. A wide cleaning path means more coverage, but could also mean less suction since it’s distributed across a wider area. Be sure to check the suction power (if it’s listed) to get an idea of how powerful it will be.
• Brush vs. Nozzle: Handheld vacuums either have a rotating brushroll, a motorized brush attachment, or a plain nozzle. Brushes and brushrolls are great for agitating carpeted floors and capturing difficult debris, like pet hair or debris in carpet. Nozzles are better for large debris and / or cleaning hardwood floors.
• Reach: Reach is an important factor since it tends to determine the vacuums versatility. Check out the overall size and shape of the vacuum as well as and included attachments. Some models may be designed short and stubby for a particular purpose, like the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser, which is great for pet hair. Other models can be designed with a long and slender neck, like the Black and Decker 16V, which makes it easy and convenient to clean in tight spaces.

What’s a 2-in-1 Vacuum Design?

Some handheld vacuums double as a handheld or a stick vacuum, like the Dyson V10 and Shark IONFlex DuoClean. Both of these models are stick vacuums that can also be handheld vacuums.

If you’re looking for a lightweight full-size vacuum, but also need a tool for smaller quick messes, you may want to check out one of the models listed above.

RELATED: Looking for more vacuum cleaner reviews specifically for handhelds? Check out our guide for the Best Handheld Vacuums here. 

You should buy a handheld vacuum if…

• You already have a primary vacuum – Handheld vacuums are excellent options for people who already have a full-size vacuum or something they use mainly for floors. Handheld vacuums ideally used for spot cleaning only.
• You want a car vacuum – Outside of the uses mentioned above, handheld vacuums are also great for vacuuming out your car. Especially if you choose a cordless model, like the Dyson Trigger, handheld vacuums are much easier to maneuver in and out of vehicles.

You should not buy a handheld vacuum if…

• You need something for larger messes – Handheld vacuums probably could vacuum larger messes, but the amount of time that it would take would be significantly longer than if you used a larger vacuum. Handheld vacuums are just not designed for large messes, due to their narrow cleaning path.
• You need something primarily for vacuum flooring – For many of the same reasons that handheld vacuums aren’t great for large messes, they are also not great for messes on the floor.

Our Handheld Vacuum Picks

Don’t want to deal with charging a battery? A corded handheld is a great alternative.

Want a long run time? Get a Dyson V-series. Instead of buying a standalone handheld vacuum, any of Dyson’s V-series vacuums can convert into a handheld.

Best Vacuum for Hardwood Floors

Ideal for… hardwoods, laminate, and tile flooring

The best vacuum for hardwood floors can span a wide range of types and models, depending on the exact features you’re looking for. There are full size uprights, lightweight stick vacuums, robots, and everything else in between. 

When cleaning hardwoods, the good thing is that you don’t necessarily need a ton of agitating rollers or fancy brushes. Hardwoods are hard and nearly friction-less so debris has nowhere to go but up into the dust bin. 

Best Upright Vacuum for Hardwood Floors

Upright vacuums make great options for hardwood floors since they generally have a larger dust bin capacity and carry more on-board attachments.

For example, the Dyson Ball Multifloor 2 is an excellent option for a vacuum that can automatically transition from various floor types. 

Best Stick Vacuum for Hardwood Floors 

For a lighter alternative to the traditional upright vacuum, stick vacuums are excellent options because they still haven plenty of power, with added convenience and maneuverability. 

For example, the Dyson V10 Absolute stick vacuum is a powerful performer on hardwood floors, where it scored an overall cleaning score of 99%, when testing four debris types. 

Looking for something a little less expensive? The Shark IONFlex DuoClean is a good alternative that’s less expensive, while still having many of the same features.

Best Robot Vacuum for Hardwood Floors

As mentioned above, cleaning hardwood floors is really where robot vacuums shine. You don’t have to spend a lot to find a robot vacuum that has good cleaning performance on hardwood floors. 

Top 5 Budget Robot Vacuums For Hardwoods 

Here’s five of our favorite robot vacuums if you’re looking for an excellent value: 

• Roomba e5: 100% cleaning performance on hardwoods
• Roborock e35: 99% cleaning performance on hardwoods
• Ecovacs Deebot N79: 99% cleaning performance on hardwoods
• Roomba 675: 99% cleaning performance on hardwoods
• iLife A4s: 97% cleaning performance on hardwoods

What’s the Best Vacuum for Hardwoods? 

• If you want a large bin capacity – For a large dust bin, the Dyson Multi Floor 2 upright vacuum is an excellent option. This is a full-size vacuum with a few on-board attachments and excellent cleaning performance. 
• It you want something light in hand – For a lighter weight option a stick vacuum is a good choice. Dyson V11 and V10 are certainly two of our favorites, but Shark’s IONFlex DuoClean and Roborock H6 are good choices also.
• If you want to forget about it – It’s hard to beat the convenience and performance of a robot vacuum. Almost all robot vacuums we’ve tested have scored exceptionally well on our hardwood cleaning tests. We really like the Roomba 675, Roomba e5, and Roborock S5 Max (doubles as a mop).

Our Hardwood Floor Vacuum Picks

If you prefer the more traditional feel of an upright we’ve got you covered with a solid vacuum pick below.

Best Upright Vacuum

Ideal for… strong suction power, whole home cleaning, on-board accessories

Upright vacuums are the traditional go-to for many primary vacuum cleaners. They are bigger, have larger capacity dust bins, and generally stronger suction as well. 

Why are upright vacuums so popular? 

It really boils down to two things and that versatility and power. 

Upright vacuums generally have a couple features that make them versatile and easy to use across the whole house: 

1. Swivel steering – It’s hard to beat the steering of the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 upright. 
2. Extending hose – The extending hose and telescoping wand of the Dyson Multi Floor 2 increases the reach by 9′ when fully extended. 
3. Lift-Away canister – Many Shark upright vacuums also have Lift-Away canisters that turns this vacuum into a portable handheld, great for stairs or quick clean ups. The Shark Rotator Lift-Away Pro or Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro are great examples.
4. Stronger suction – Two of the best upright vacuums, strictly in terms of suction, are the Dyson Ball Animal 2 and the Shark APEX DuoClean Lift-Away — offering 306 AW and 270 AW of suction power, respectively. 

Upright Vacuum Cleaning Performance

Many upright vacuums provide excellent cleaning performance across all flooring types, due to that strong suction power and motorized brushroll. 

The Shark Rotator Lift-Away Pro, for example, had good scores for all debris types and all flooring types except for cereal and sugar on high carpet, where it struggled to pick up the largest and smallest debris types. 

Are there upright accessories? 

Upright vacuums tend to have numerous accessories included with the vacuum itself, many of which are stored on the vacuum itself and easily accessible in the middle of the cleaning. 

Some of the most popular accessories include: 

• Extendable wand
• Flexible hose
• Crevice tool
• Soft dusting brush
• Motorized brush tool

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro comes with one of the largest variety of accessories that we’ve tested in an upright vacuum to date. This model includes: 

• Upright roller base
• Hard floor base (with microfiber cloths) 
• Flexible hose (with handle)
• Soft dusting brush
• Crevice tool
• Motorized brush tool
• On-board attachment holder

You can read more about the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro here. 

You should buy an upright vacuum if…

• You want unlimited run time – Since upright vacuums are generally always corded, that means endless fade-free suction, allowing you to clean all your areas without having to worry about a dead battery. 
• You want a larger dust bin – The dust bin of an upright vacuum is almost always going to be larger than any other vacuum type (except for perhaps canister vacuums). For one of the largest dust bin capacities, check out the Shark Navigator Lift Away Pro which can hold up to 2.2 quarts of dry debris. 

RELATED: Looking for a vacuum that can empty its own dust canister between cleaning cycles? Check out the Roomba S9+.

You should not buy an upright vacuum if…

• You want something cordless – Due to the suction power of an upright vacuum, they are basically always going to be corded power. For something cordless, you may want to check out the Dyson line-up of cordless stick vacuums, like the Dyson V11 Torque Drive (185 AW) or Dyson V11 Outsize (220 AW).
• You want something lightweight – Again, with great power comes great responsibility. The main responsibility being that you have to carry this thing around and upright vacuums are certainly not known for being lightweight. For a semi-light upright vacuum that still has good cleaning performance, check out the Dyson Small Ball, which weighs only 12.15 lbs, and is basically a smaller version of the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 upright.

PRO TIP: The Dyson V10 offers the same amount of suction power in max mode (140 AW) as the Dyson Small Ball upright and weighs only 5.9 pounds.

If you don’t need the larger dust bin and like the idea of cordless power, the V10 could be a good option. 

Our Upright Vacuum Picks

For a less expensive option (but still covers most of what you need in a vacuum cleaner), Shark provides a good option.

If you want a more high-end Shark upright, get the Shark APEX DuoClean. I wouln’t say it’s better than the Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2, but it’s still a very close 2nd as far as high-end upright vacuums goes.

Best Stick Vacuum

Ideal for… lightweight, mobility, and cleaning stairs (or other hard to reach spots)

Stick vacuums bring a level of convenience that traditional uprights tend to lack, while also being powerful.

The best of both worlds…

Stick vacuums are generally under 8 pounds and can be cordless or corded. They are easy to maneuver, and typically include a few simple attachments like a crevice tool or dusting brush.

Prices for stick vacuums range from under $100 up to $800 or more. For a great budget stick vacuum, the Dyson V7 Motorhead is a good choice. It’s relatively inexpensive, lightweight, and performed well in our cleaning tests.

For a top-performer, the Dyson V11 Outsize offers all the bells and whistles you’d want in a stick vacuum. It comes in at a higher price point, but also has more accessories, nearly flawless cleaning performance, a 2 hour run time (2 batteries), and suction on par with corded upright vacuums (220 AW).

Stick Vacuums vs. Upright Vacuums

With their smaller size, you would expect a stick vacuum to have less suction power than a comparable upright and generally, that is true.

For comparison, the Dyson V11 offers 185 AW of suction (in max mode) while the top performing Dyson upright, the Dyson Animal 2 offers 306 AW of suction power.

In the case of Dyson, going with the cordless stick is a noticeable dip in suction power, but keep in mind, the V11 still captured 99% of the debris during our in-house cleaning performance tests.

The bottom line?

In our view, raw suction power doesn’t always mean better cleaning performance. There is such a thing as “enough” suction, and that definitely seems to be the case with vacuums like the V10, V11, and other high-end cordless vacuums.

You should buy a stick vacuum if…

• You want maneuverability and convenience – Stick vacuums are lightweight and generally easy to maneuver. Many models are cordless so you don’t even have to worry about an outlet while you’re cleaning.
• You want a 2-in-1 – Many stick vacuums also double as a handheld vacuum, making them a more versatile tool to have in your home.

You should not buy a stick vacuum if…

• You need a large dust bin – Most stick vacuums have a relatively small dust bin which can be a problem if you’re cleaning a larger home or a space with high traffic or pets. If you want a stick with a big dust bin, get the V11 Outsize.
• You need to spend less than $200 – good stick vacuums start at around $200 and go up from there. If you’re spending less than that, you are probably going to be disappointed in the performance. If you have $200 or less to spend you’ll be better off buying a corded upright vacuum, like the Shark Rotator Professional.

Our Stick Vacuum Picks

Picking the best stick vacuum is a bit of a double edge sword. Other vacuums we’ve listed above as best overall / best cordless (Dyson V11 Torque Drive) and best for hardwoods (Dyson V10 Absolute) are both strong candidates for the best stick also.

However, we think it makes sense to highlight a couple of different models for the best stick. Specifically, those that strike a balance of performance vs. features.

Even though we’re calling out the V10 Motorhead here, any of the more recent Dyson V-series vacuums would be worthy of consideration. It really depends on your needs.

Here are a few use cases you should consider:

• Lots of Hardwoods / Hard Surfaces = Get the V10 Absolute
• Huge house with lots of carpet = Get the V11 Outsize
• Balance of carpets and hard surfaces with a more typical sized home = Get the V11 Torque Drive

Last, but least, our runner up here is the Shark IONFlex DuoClean.

Best Canister Vacuum

Ideal for… deep cleaning, raw suction power, and light in hand

Canister vacuums are generally less popular than upright or stick vacuums, but don’t write them off just yet.

For example, canister vacuums are a great alternative if you want the power of an upright, but the lightweight in-hand portability of a stick vacuum. 

With a canister vacuum, the bulk of the weight of the vacuum lies in the rolling canister and not in your hand. Although there are generally fewer options, most major vacuum brands have canister vacuums. 

Popular Canister Vacuums by Brand

• Dyson Big Ball Multi Floor (high end)
• Miele Classic C1 (high end)
• Bissell Zing (budget)
• Kenmore 600 (high end)
• Eureka Mighty Mite (budget)

Canister Vacuum Performance

While the performance of a canister vacuum may vary by model, it is generally comparable to an upright vacuum.

Take Dyson, for example. Their Dyson Big Ball Multi-Floor canister vacuum generates 250 AW of suction power.

The Dyson Animal 2 upright vacuum generates 306 AW of suction power. 

Next, another top-performing canister vacuum is the Miele C1. Although the Miele name may be less familiar in the US market, this vacuum is top notch and hugely popular overseas. 

Miele Canister Cleaning Performance

Miele doesn’t openly offer the AW suction power of their vacuum, but in our testing lab, the suction was more than sufficient for all of our cleaning tests. 

You should buy a canister vacuum if…

• You want strong suction – A canister vacuum is a nice option for strong suction, that would be comparable to a full size upright vacuum (in most cases – varies by model). 
• You want something lightweight in-hand – Canister vacuums have the power of a larger vacuum, but are lightweight in hand since you only hold the wand and cleaning head. 

You should not buy a canister vacuum if…

• You don’t like being followed – The biggest disadvantage of a canister vacuum for many people is that the canister vacuum follows you around. It can bump into obstacles on the ground or even your own heels as you try to maneuver around the canister. 
• You want on-the-go convenience – Canister vacuums are best used on one level and in open spaces, so the canister has room to navigate. Canister vacuums can be difficult to use in cars or on stairs.

Our Canister Vacuum Picks

Best Car Vacuum

Ideal for… car detailing, lightweight, and on-the-go cleaning

The best vacuum cleaners for cars are lightweight, portable, and easy to use. Car vacuums can be stored in the car directly or available at a moment’s notice.

How do you power a car vacuum?

Car vacuums can be powered a number of different ways. Here are three most popular ways to power a car vacuum:

1. Lithium-ion Battery Power

Most cordless vacuums are powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery. These vacuum can have a run time that varies from 15-60 minutes, depending on the model.

For maximum 60-minute run time check out the Dyson V11 or for a more budget-friendly option check out the Black & Decker 16V with a 15-minute run time. Both of these models are battery powered.

2. Plug In Power

Other corded vacuums will use a traditional wall outlet. To clean your car, you’ll likely need to use an extension cord to help get to all of the nooks and crevices of an automobile.

Nevertheless, corded vacuums make great car vacuums because they have an unlimited run time, making them a great option for the lengthier full detail jobs.

One of our favorites here at Modern Castle is the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser.

This vacuum is incredibly powerful and a great value, considering its low price. The biggest disadvantage to this guy is that it doesn’t come with a crevice tool, but for cleaning upholstery, it’s hard to beat.

3. Cigarette Lighter Power (12 Volt)

Some car vacuum models are powered by plugging directly into a cigarette lighter, like the ThisWorx TWC-01.

This particular model comes with a few different accessories and has 12V of power, making it a solid choice for a vacuum that would never have to leave your car.

What to look for in a car vacuum?

Here is a short list of some of the most important things to consider when thinking about which car vacuum to buy:

1. Run Time – How long do you plan to run this vacuum in any given cycle? For quick pickups, a 10-15 minute time time would be probably be enough, but for more in-depth cleaning cycles you may want to consider a longer run time or a corded vacuum.
2. Weight – The weight ties into the question above… how long do you plan to use it? Most car vacuums are going to be around 5 pounds, but that’s not always the case, especially if its a corded vacuum or if it has a longer run time. Consider what weight you’re comfortable carrying and how long you’d have to carry it around.
3. Accessories – What type of mess do you plan on cleaning and where? Are you primarily concerned about the dog hair stuck on your upholstery? Check out the Shark Pet Perfect 2. Are you looking for a model with a soft dusting brush to keep your dash looking showroom ready? Check out the Dyson V7 Trigger. Got snacks and crumbs buried in every crevice? Check out the Black & Decker 16V.

You should buy a car vacuum if…

• You want something portable – Whether they’re corded or cordless, the best vacuums for cars are designed to move around. A good car vacuum will be under 5 pounds and comfortably fit in your hand.

You should not buy a car vacuum if…

• You need a large dust bin – Due to their smaller sizes, car vacuums generally have a relatively small dust bin. If you’re looking for something that you don’t need to empty as frequently, you may want to consider a different option. Perhaps a canister vacuum that is light is-hand, but retains the larger dust bin capacity.

Our Car Vacuum Picks

Removing pet hair is a more difficult task, so having a car vacuum designed specifically for that task can help. If you want something more budget-friendly than the V7 Trigger and good at pet hair, Shark’s Pet Perfect 2 is a good choice.

Best Vacuum for Carpet

Ideal for… low or high pile carpet, deep cleaning, area rugs

While most vacuums are designed for cleaning carpet, that doesn’t make them all equal.

The best vacuum cleaners for carpet may have advanced brushrolls, high suction power, or carpet-friendly accessories for overall better cleaning performance.

Robot Vacuums for Carpet

Robot vacuums certainly excel on hardwood floors, but they can still be strong performers on carpet as well. We run performance tests on all vacuums that come through our the doors at Modern Castle.

Based on those tests, the following robot vacuums scored 98% or higher on carpeted floors:

• Roomba S9+: the best robot that iRobot makes, including incredible suction and a self-emptying dust bin
• Roomba i7+: top-of-the-line model with self-emptying dust bin and other advanced features
• Roomba e5: more budget friendly, but still with exceptional performance (especially at this price)

All of the above are iRobot’s most advanced robot vacuums. They each have a few upgrades that help to improve performance on carpet, but that’s not to say that they are the only good models out there.

Even some older models can still be a good value. TheHomeDweller.com has extensive comparisons of the Roomba 805 vs. a number of iRobot and other robot vacuums.

Also, see our Roomba reviews page for a full list of current and legacy models.

Robot Vacuum Carpet Performance

There are many other robot vacuums that can perform well on carpet with most debris types, but many struggle with one specific type of debris or on one specific floor type.

Take, for example, the following models below: 

• Roomba 675 – 99% performance on carpet (if you exclude sugar tests)
• Roomba 960 – 100% performance on carpet (if you exclude our sugar tests)
• Roborock E35 – 97% performance on carpet (if you exclude our sugar tests)
• Roborock S4 – 97% performance on carpet (including sugar)

RELATED: Check out our full guide here for the Best Vacuum for Carpet. 

Best Brushroll for Vacuuming Carpet

When looking for a vacuum, for carpet, the brushroll plays an important role. There are a couple different style of brushrolls you may want to consider:

• Bristle Brushroll – Bristle brushrolls are good on carpet because they can agitate the debris and capture debris deep in the carpet fibers. Potential downside – hair can easily become wrapped and tangled in the bristles.

Example: See the Dyson V11 stick vacuum. 

• Rubberized Brushroll – Commonly seen on robot vacuums, rubberized brushrolls are another effective brushroll type that can agitate debris and help lift it into the dust bin. Potential downside – generally not seen on vacuums that are not robots.

Example: See the Roomba S9+ robot vacuum. 

• Combo Brushroll – Some vacuum models use a combination of different materials to create a brushroll, or system of dual brushrolls. This is seen in the Dyson Absolute stick vacuum models or the Shark DuoClean models.

Example: See the Shark APEX DuoClean upright vacuum.

What’s the Best Vacuum for Carpet?

• If you want a large bin capacity – For a large dust bin, the Dyson Multi Floor 2 is an excellent option. This Dyson is an upright vacuum designed to tackle a multitude of space with its self-adjusting brushroll, variety of attachments, and large dust bin capacity.
• It you want a lightweight budget vacuum – For a lightweight vacuum that still has decent enough suction, the Shark Navigator Pro is a good option. At only 13.5 pounds, it is much lighter than many comparable full size upright models.

Our Best Vacuum for Carpet Picks

One of the biggest complaints we see on the Dyson Ball Animal 2 is that it simply has too much suction. Certain thick certain types don’t interact well with the Ball Animal 2. As a result, it can incredibly difficult (and sometimes impossible) to actually push the vacuum forward.

If you have thick high pile carpets or just want variable suction power you’ll want to consider the V11 Outsize instead.

While the Shark Navigator may not be as good as our top 2 picks for carpets, it is not bad by any stretch, while being far less expensive.

Best Vacuum for Allergies

Ideal for… people who suffer from allergies or asthma

Vacuums don’t always directly market themselves towards users with allergies, which can leave you with irritated sinuses or other allergy problems. 

Vacuums that are designed with asthma and allergies in mind may include:

• Advanced HEPA filtration
• Bagged debris systems
• Special design and seal systems 

Advanced HEPA Filtration

HEPA filtration is the system that helps to filter out particles and irritants that can cause issues for people with allergies. Dyson’s filtration system is said to trap 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. 

FUN FACT:  For reference, a micron is 0.00004 inches!

Many high-end upright and stick vacuums utilize HEPA filters.

Bagged Debris Systems

Another way to limit allergies is by using a bagged system, like on the Miele C1. Bagged systems may seem out-dated, but in reality, they can be a great line of defense for allergy sufferers.

Bagged systems contain all of the debris and particles and prevent releasing any particles back into the air as you empty the canister. 

RELATED: Click here for a head-to-head comparison of Miele vs. Dyson.

Unique Patented Systems

Some manufacturers release new technology that is proprietary to their brand.

For example, the technology in the Dyson Cinetic Big Ball Animal Allergy Upright.

This vacuum is unique in that it doesn’t use a pre-motor filter and requires zero filter maintenance.

In addition, this model comes with a variety of cleaning attachments to make it easier to clean different parts of your home. 

What about asthma / allergy certification seals?

Not sure if the vacuum you’re considering is a good choice for allergy sufferers? Look for the seal! 

The best vacuums for asthma or allergies will be certified by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America.

What’s the Best Vacuum for Allergies?

• If you want something portable – The Dyson V7 Trigger HEPA is  handheld vacuum, providing great allergy protection with an advanced HEPA filter and sealed filtration system. 
• It you want a bagged system – The Miele Compact C1 is a bagged canister vacuum with powerful cleaning performance and a sealed system.
• If you want a bagless system – For bagless performance, the Dyson Animal 2 upright vacuum may be right for you with extremely powerful suction, maxing out around 306 AW. The only major downside is the Animal 2 has so much suction it can be difficult to push on high carpets.

Our Best Vacuum for Allergies Picks

If you have mostly hard surfaces, low pile carpet, and/or lots of fabric / upholstery that needs to be cleaned, the direct suction of a canister may be a better choice.

Best Value & Budget Vacuums

Ideal for… good performance at a great price

A high quality clean doesn’t have to come with a high dollar sign. If you’re just looking for a good vacuum at a great price, this is the section for you.

Below you’ll see a breakdown of the best vacuums at different price tiers.

Let’s dive in.

Best Vacuum Under $100

For under $100, you can get a quality handheld or a basic upright. Popular bagless upright vacuums include the Bissell Cleanview 1831.

In addition, while the Hoover T-Series upright is usually more than $100, it’s so close we felt we should include it as well. While the Hoover T-Series struggled on hardwoods, it had great cleaning performance on high and low pile carpet.

By comparison, the Bissell Cleanview is an ultra in-expensive choice if you just need something basic.

RELATED: Click here for a head-to-head match up of Hoover vs. Bissell. 

Our Under $100 Vacuum Picks

Best Vacuum Under $200

For a little more money, you can get a few more bells and whistles on most all vacuum types.

For uprights, you’re going to get improved swivel steering, auto-adjusting flooring transition, and more opportunities for attachments.

Some of these models include the Shark Navigator Lift Away Pro or Shark Rotator Pro upright vacuum.

If you’re looking for a stick vacuum, the Tineco A10 is one of the best choices. This model is a 2-in-1 vacuum with solid features and accessories.

RELATED: Click here for recommendations for the best cheap vacuum. 

Our Under $200 Vacuum Picks

Best Vacuum Under $300

With an even greater budget, comes more options and more advanced technology that tends to apply across all vacuum types.

For under $300, you can get a quality 2-in-1 stick vacuum with the Dyson V7, an allergy-friendly canister vacuum with the Miele Classic C1, or an autonomous robot vacuum with the Roomba 675.

Our Under $300 Vacuum Picks

What’s the Best Budget Vacuum?

• If you want an upright – To get the most of your money from an upright vacuum, it’s hard to look past the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro. This vacuum offers strong suction, swivel steering, and multiple cleaning modes for a price that’s hard to beat.
• It you want a robot vacuum – For a value robot vacuum, the Roomba 675 offers a good value without sacrificing performance or features. It includes scheduled cleanings, wifi connectivity, and smartphone control.
• If you want a 2-in-1 body style – For a vacuum that doubles as a stick vacuum or handheld, the Dyson V7 is an excellent option. It has exceptional cleaning performance and can easily be converted to a portable handheld from the upright stick mode.

Vacuum Cleaner Reviews

The following table includes a complete list of all vacuum cleaner reviews on ModernCastle.com.

All of these vacuums went through our standard series of tests designed to showcase the performance, usability, and other features of the vacuum.

Interested in how we test and score each vacuum cleaner? Click here to see our vacuum review and testing process.

Vacuum Cleaner Comparison Reviews

Below we have listed all comparision vacuum reviews on Modern Castle.

• Shark vs. Dyson
• Shark vs. Roomba
• Shark IQ vs. Roomba S9+ vs. i7+
• Shark Navigator vs. Rotator
• Dyson Animal 2 vs. Multi Floor 2
• Dyson V11 Torque Drive vs. Outsize vs. Animal
• Dyson V6 vs. V7 vs. V8 vs. V10 vs. V11
• Dyson V10 vs. V11
• Dyson V8 vs. V11
• Dyson V8 vs. V10
• Dyson V7 vs. V10
• Dyson V6 vs. V10
• Dyson V7 vs. V8
• Dyson V6 vs. V7
• Dyson V6 vs. V8
• Dyson vs. Miele
• Roborock S6 vs. S5 vs. S5 Max
• Roborock S6 vs. S6 MaxV vs. S5 vs. S5 Max vs. S4 vs. E35 vs. E25
• Roomba S9+ vs. i7+ vs. e5
• Roomba i7+ vs. i7 vs. e5
• Roomba 960 vs. 980
• Roomba 690 vs. 960
• Roomba 675 vs. 690
• Roomba 650 vs. 690
• Roomba 690 vs. 890
• Roomba 890 vs. 980
• Roomba 890 vs. 960
• Roomba 860 vs. 890
• Roomba 614 vs. 690
• Roomba vs. Neato
• Roomba vs. Bobsweep
• Roomba vs. iLife
• Ecovacs Deebot vs. Roomba
• Hoover vs. Dyson
• Neato Botvac D3 Connected vs. D5 Connected

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Send us an email request here.

More Vacuum Reviews & Resoures

• Siliware Dyson accessory holder (V7, v8, and V10)
• Keepow Dyson accessory holder (V7, v8, and V10)
• Lanmu Dyson accessory holder (V7 and V8)

Can’t Decide What Vacuum to Buy?

If you’re still having trouble deciding what vacuum is best for your home, don’t worry. Please use the comment form down below to ask your question.

We’ll discuss your needs, desires, budget, and then make a recommendation based on what’s best for you. We typically are able to respond within 24 hours. So send us your questions now.

Related Reviews & Guides

Cleaning your carpets and floors is important, but so is cleaning the air. Take a look at our air purifier testing series.

• Best Air Purifiers (reviews and best of guide)
• Dyson TP04 Review
• Dyson Pure Cool Review
• Dyson Air Purifier Reviews (all models)
• Molekule Review
• Dyson vs. Molekule
• Rabbit Air Minus A2 Review

ChangeLog

• March 3, 2021 – Corrected an error on the Shark APEX dust bin size.
• May 14-15, 2020 – Major overhaul to page and recommendations. All recommendations were reviewed with many being updated due to new information, new models, updated pricing, new test data, and other factors. New and updated information was added in many areas. Information across the board was clarified and better explained. Cleaned up a few formatting issues. Added or changed images to better and more relevant photographs.
• July 24, 2019 – Added images from our Dyson Animal 2 tests and review.
• April 4, 2019 – Over the last several weeks we have overhauled the page with a new format / layout, added new vacuums reviews, and updated other information.
• November 30, 2018 – Overhauled page with almost all new content. Added best vacuum sections for various types. Modified display of review information. Removed old content and out-dated scoring system information.
• August 28, 2018 – Added new products to the tables.
• March 22, 2018 – Improved organization for both upright vacuums and stick vacuum review tables.
• January 10, 2018 – Updated table pricing to fall into tiers, instead of exact prices. Also added a section on canister vacuums.
• December 7, 2017 – In the last few weeks we’ve added more reviews to this page. The content has not significantly changed, just slightly different formatting and more links to our new reviews.
• October 27, 2017 – Added information about how vacuums work and types of vacuums. We also added more clarity around the specific elements within each scoring factor, adding scoring tiers and the criteria we look for within each scoring tier for each scoring element.
• October 1, 2017 – Added information clarifying our scoring tier levels. Specifically, that most scores will be between 50-100%, with only exceptional failing cases scoring 50% or below. Added clearer definitions for 0-70% scoring tiers.