We’ve tested 23+ upright vacuums with objective and data-driven testing. Taking into consideration cleaning performance, usability, maintenance, and overall quality we narrowed the list down to the 4 best upright vacuums for 2024. We’ve organized the list from the most expensive to the least.
In This Comparison
Expensive | Budget | Cleaning | Smoke Sealant | Noise | Usability | Maintenance | How We Test
#1 Overall Pick
Dyson Ball Animal 3
Odor Neutralizing; High performance
Shark Stratos Upright
Upright with Canister Features
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro
Budget Multi-Functional Upright
Shark Rotator Lift-Away
Video Best Of
Expensive Upright Vacuums
Let’s take a look at the most expensive uprights and arguably the best devices on the market.
Dyson Ball Animal 3
Best For
- Powerful suction that leads to excellent performance across all tests
- Lifetime washable filters
- Adjustable cleaning head for variable suction
Considerations
- Not readily available at all retailers
Our Verdict
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 keeps true to their design from previous Dyson models. The cleaning head is improved, adding a switch to increase/decrease suction as needed.
This ability, paired with powerful suction, created an exceptionally performing vacuum. Across all floor types it removed 99.4% of debris, had no issue with long or pet hair, and was completely sealed.
Even being one of the more expensive uprights on the list, the cleaning performance is undeniable. If you are looking for the absolute best, that increased price just might be worth it.
Type: Upright
Bagless: Yes, 0.45 gal (1.7 L)
Cordless: No, 35 ft. (10.7 m)
While having been released a few years ago, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 still stands at the top of the list as one of the best vacuums we’ve tested to date. Its powerful performance shows in our cleaning tests as it removed 99.4% of all debris across all floor types. Both long and pet hair proved little challenge for Animal 3 and all debris was removed from the edges and crevices.
It has a 0.45-gallon dustbin that is completely sealed, with a 35 ft. cord for cleaning. Additionally, usability is excellent for the Animal 3. It has a few accessories that can all be stored on the vacuum (more with the Complete version) and an adjustable cleaning head for improved suction on different floor types.
Overall, it is a simple design that has been fine-tuned for maximum efficiency. Considering the asking price, the Dyson Ball Animal 3 is a hard recommendation to beat.
| Test Type | Test Data |
|---|---|
| Overall Debris Tests | 99.4% |
| Hardwood Floor Test | 99.5% |
| Low Pile Carpet Test | 99.3% |
| High Pile Carpet Test | 99.5% |
| Long Hair Test | 100% |
| Pet Hair Test | 99.0% |
| Edge Cleaning Test | 100% |
| Crevice Test | 100% |
| Sealed System Test | Fully Sealed |
| Build Quality Test | Exceptional |
| Noise Test | 81 dB |
Dyson Ball Animal 3
Amazon.com
Dyson Ball Animal 3
Dyson.com
Shark Stratos Upright
Best For
- Removed 98.9% of all debris on all floor types
- Includes odor-neutralizing pods, masking unwanted odors
- Handles long and pet hair with ease
Considerations
- Higher asking price
- Slightly struggled with sugar on high pile carpet
Our Verdict
The Shark Stratos Upright improves upon previous versions of Shark uprights creating a high-quality and complete package. It comes with an odor neutralizing pod, has the ability to function as a canister vacuum, and comes with a range of useful accessories.
Paired with the fantastic design is excellent performance. Across all floor types, the Stratos removed 98.9% of all debris, had perfect performance with long human hair and pet hair, and was completely sealed.
Being the latest upright from Shark, it still has a relatively high price tag. However, due to the incredible usability and great performance it is still a great recommendation for any home.
Type: Upright
Bagless: Yes, 0.37 gal (1.4 L)
Cordless: No, 30 ft. (9.1 m)
The Shark Stratos Upright stands as a strong contender for the best upright of 2024. It packs excellent performance with some unique additions, like the odor-neutralizing pods, which mask unwanted odors while cleaning.
In our tests, the Stratos removed 98.9% of all debris across all floor types. It had minor issues with sugar on high pile carpet but had no issue with pet hair on the same floor type. In addition, the vacuum had no issues with long hair and avoided all tangles.
Sporting a 0.37-gallon dustbin that’s fully sealed to trap allergens and a generous 30-foot power cord, the Stratos offers both capacity and reach. Furthermore, the usability of the Stratos is excellent. It has lift-away features to act as a canister vacuum, washable filters for reduced maintenance, and accessories that aid in cleaning situations.
Across the board, the Shark Stratos has few weaknesses and many strengths, making it a fantastic pick for an at-home cleaning solution.
| Test Type | Test Data |
|---|---|
| Overall Debris Tests | 98.9% |
| Hardwood Floor Test | 99.5% |
| Low Pile Carpet Test | 99.0% |
| High Pile Carpet Test | 98.3% |
| Long Hair Test | 100% |
| Pet Hair Test | 100% |
| Edge Cleaning Test | 100% |
| Crevice Test | 99.6% |
| Sealed System Test | Fully Sealed |
| Build Quality Test | Exceptional |
| Noise Test | 75 dB |
Shark Stratos Upright
Sharkclean.com
Shark Stratos Upright
Amazon.com
Special Mentions
While the Dyson Ball Animal 3 and Shark Stratos Upright are the current leading models from these manufacturers, there are a number of other slightly older models that are fantastic as well. The Shark Apex, Vertex, and Dyson Ball Animal 2, all have excellent cleaning performance but may lack some of the newer features.
That said, even with the newer upright vacuums the prices can fluctuate. If you are looking for the most bang for your buck, we recommend checking all of these models out for the best-priced upright at that time.
Powerful Shark Alternative
Shark Apex DuoClean Zero-M
Best For
- Nearly perfect debris removal performance of 99.6%
- Avoids long hair tangles and manages pet hair
- Useful accessories
Quick Specs
- Type: Upright
- Bagless: Yes, 0.21 gal (0.8 L)
- Cordless: No, 30 ft. (9.1 m)
Shark’s 2019 Flagship
Despite being an older model than the Stratos, the Shark Apex is still a fantastic upright. It removed 99.6% of all debris, had practically no long hair left over after cleaning, and minimal amounts of pet hair.
It packs a completely sealed system with a 0.21-gallon dust bin and 30 ft. cord. Additionally, the Apex has a washable filter and includes a pet hair tool to aid in cleaning situations.
While it may lack some of the newest features we see on the Stratos, it’s still a powerful contender and a great pick for an upright vacuum.
Dyson Runner-Up
Dyson Ball Animal 2
Best For
- Powerful suction and 96.3% debris removal performance
- Lifetime washable filters
- Point-and-shoot bagless dustbin
Quick Specs
- Type: Upright
- Bagless: Yes, 0.55 gal (2.1 L)
- Cordless: No, 35 ft. (10.7 m)
Dyson’s Former Flagship
The Dyson Ball Animal 2 is still one of the most powerful upright vacuums we’ve tested to date. It had so much suction, that it had minor issues getting on top of cereal on high pile carpet. Despite that, it is a fantastic performer, removing 96.3% of debris across all floor types.
Pet hair wasn’t an issue for the Animal 2, although long hair was a serious concern. 48.0% of the long hair tangled in our tests, but it was easy to remove. In addition, the dust bin was mostly sealed, leaking some smoke from our smoke machine. That said, we believe it is enough sealing to not warrant concern.
Despite these minor issues, the Animal 2 is still a high-performance upright vacuum and a solid pick for an at-home cleaning device.
Improved Brushroll
Shark Vertex DuoClean
Best For
- Fantastic results across all tests, with 99.4% debris removal
- Lift-away features and accessories enhance usability
- Improved brush roll
Quick Specs
- Type: Upright
- Bagless: Yes, 0.24 gal (0.9 L)
- Cordless: No, 30 ft. (9.1 m)
Shark’s 2020 Flagship
Being an older model, you can see the evolution from the Shark Vertex DuoClean to the Stratos. It has a lot of similar features we see in multiple Shark uprights, paired with excellent performance. It introduced improved PowerFins, which replaced the traditional bristles from the previous version.
In our tests, the Vertex showcased excellent performance across the board. It removed 99.4% of debris across all floor types, had no issues with long or pet hair, and removed all the debris along the edge and crevices. Furthermore, the device is completely sealed.
It packs a 0.24-gallon dustbin and 30 ft. cord that gives a healthy amount of reach while cleaning. It has lift-away features, a soft-roller brush on the front, and comes with a number of useful accessories. All in all, it’s a solid recommendation if the price is right.
Budget Upright Vacuums
Finally, let’s take a look at the least expensive upright vacuums on the list that still pack great performance.
Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro
Best For
- Had perfect performance with long and pet hair
- Suction strength can be adjusted on the carpet
- Has lift-away features for enhanced usability
- Lightest vacuum on this list
Considerations
- Struggled on the high-pile carpet due to increased suction
- Had lack-luster performance with crevices
- Turning radius is not ideal
Our Verdict
While it used to be the flagship upright for Shark, the Navigator Lift-Away Pro is from several generations back. It is lift-away capable, allowing it to act as a canister vacuum, and has a large dustbin capacity.
But performance wasn’t perfect for the Navigator. It struggled on high pile carpet and received an overall score of 83.6% across all floor types. On the positive side, long and pet hair performance was exceptional and the device is completely sealed.
Despite having issues in some cleaning situations, the Shark Navigator is still a powerful vacuum and effective in many cleaning situations. When you consider the asking price, it makes it a much more attractive recommendation.
Type: Upright
Bagless: Yes, 0.55 gal (2.1 L)
Cordless: No, 30 ft. (9.1 m)
Due to its age and price, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro has some shortcomings. It had a lackluster performance on high pile carpet, only removing 60.5% of the debris. Due to the high degree of suction it can create a seal with the carpet making it difficult to pick up the larger debris types. That said suction can be adjusted for carpet, making the device more effective.
Looking at other floor types, the Navigator showed great results. On both hardwood and low pile carpet it removed over 92.0% of all debris on the floor. In addition, it managed long and pet hair with excellent results.
While it had no issue with debris along edges, it did have some issues dealing with debris in crevices. Across the board, only 59.4% of debris was removed, but that was with a single forward and backward pass. I am sure with greater attention while cleaning it would have little issue.
Additionally, the Navigator has a 0.55-gallon dustbin that is completely sealed, paired with a 30 ft cord. It comes with helpful accessories like a pet power brush and has the ability to lift-away like other Shark uprights.
It’s not perfect, but considering how inexpensive it is compared to other vacuums, it is still an excellent deal in our view.
| Test Type | Test Data |
|---|---|
| Overall Debris Tests | 83.6% |
| Hardwood Floor Test | 92.8% |
| Low Pile Carpet Test | 97.5% |
| High Pile Carpet Test | 60.5% |
| Long Hair Test | 99.0% |
| Pet Hair Test | 99.0% |
| Edge Cleaning Test | 100% |
| Crevice Test | 59.4% |
| Sealed System Test | Fully Sealed |
| Build Quality Test | Excellent |
| Noise Test | 77 dB |
Shark Rotator Lift-Away
Best For
- Great performance on low pile carpet, pet hair, edges, and crevices
- Multiple configurations and accessories that enhance usability
- Lightweight design
Considerations
- Struggled with cereal and sugar on high pile carpet
- Almost half of the long hair tangled around the brush roll
- Multiple filters to manage and replace
Our Verdict
Released after the Shark Navigator, the Shark Rotator Lift-Away added some new features including LED headlights and a brushroll indicator light which improved the overall design. In addition, it comes with useful accessories and lift-away features.
Performance for the Shark Rotator was similar to the Navigator, having good performance with 86.4% debris removal and some struggles on high pile carpet. In addition, it had almost half of the long hair tangle in the brush roll. That said, the Rotator had no issues with pet hair and was completely sealed.
Again, what makes the Shark Navigator so attractive is the asking price. While it may not reach levels of perfection that we see in newer uprights, it still has a lot to offer for a solid bargain.
Type: Upright
Bagless: Yes, 0.33 gal (1.2 L)
Cordless: No, 30 ft. (9.1 m)
Similar to the Shark Navigator, the Shark Rotator Lift-Away isn’t perfect. While it removed 86.4% of all debris from all floor types. It had some struggles with cereal, especially on high pile carpet where it struggled to get on top of the debris. In addition, almost half of the long hair was tangled around the brush roll. However, pet hair posed no issue and practically all of it was removed.
The good news doesn’t stop there, as the Rotator was able to remove all of the debris from the edge and the vast majority of it from the crevices. Additionally, the dust bin is completely sealed, ensuring no debris escapes while cleaning.
It’s equipped with a 0.33-gallon dustbin, has a 30 ft cord, and is the second lightest vacuum on this list, with the lightest being the Shark Navigator. The Rotator comes with a set of accessories, including the dust-away tool and pet brush, that all assist in different cleaning situations. Furthermore, the vacuum can double as a canister vacuum when needed.
Again the Shark Rotator Lift-Away has its shortcomings, but despite these, it still had relatively solid performance across the board. When we consider the price point the Navigator remains an exceptionally good value.
| Test Type | Test Data |
|---|---|
| Overall Debris Tests | 86.4% |
| Hardwood Floor Test | 92.0% |
| Low Pile Carpet Test | 94.8% |
| High Pile Carpet Test | 72.5% |
| Long Hair Test | 55.0% |
| Pet Hair Test | 99.9% |
| Edge Cleaning Test | 100% |
| Crevice Test | 95.0% |
| Sealed System Test | Fully Sealed |
| Build Quality Test | Excellent |
| Noise Test | 80 dB |
Cleaning Performance Comparison
Cleaning performance for the majority of the vacuums on this list is excellent no matter the floor or debris type. However, there are some notable dips in performance, especially in regard to cereal.
| Category | Dyson Ball Animal 3 | Shark Stratos Upright | Shark Apex Zero-M | Dyson Ball Animal 2 | Shark Vertex DuoClean | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro | Shark Rotator Lift-Away | Average Upright |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Overall Cleaning Score | 99.4% | 99.4% | 97.6% | 92.9% | 99.7% | 88.6% | 87.8% | 91.5% |
| Overall Debris Removed | 99.4% | 98.9% | 99.6% | 96.3% | 99.4% | 83.6% | 86.4% | 88.2% |
| Hardwood Overall | 99.5% | 99.5% | 100% | 99.5% | 100% | 92.8% | 92.0% | 80.2% |
| Low Pile Overall | 99.3% | 99.0% | 99.3% | 100% | 98.8% | 97.5% | 94.8% | 95.5% |
| High Pile Overall | 99.5% | 98.3% | 99.5% | 89.5% | 99.5% | 60.5% | 72.5% | 86.8% |
| Long Hair Tangle Avoidance | 100% | 100% | 99.0% | 52.0% | 100% | 99.0% | 55.0% | 86.7% |
| Pet Hair Removed | 99.0% | 100% | 99.0% | 100% | 100% | 99.0% | 99.9% | 98.8% |
| Edge Test | 100% | 100% | 100% | 97.6% | 100% | 100% | 100% | 99.7% |
| Crevice Test | 100% | 99.6% | 98.3% | 97.8% | 100% | 59.4% | 95.0% | 92.9% |
As we can see from the data, the older and cheaper the vacuum, the worse performance it has. Both the Shark Navigator and Rotator struggled with cereal on high pile carpet, failing to get on top of the debris due to the suction created by the floor. However, the newer models had no complications.
On average, over the 23+ uprights we’ve tested to date, vacuums are able to remove 88.2% of all debris. A few of the models fall short of that mark, but the majority far surpass it.
Long hair performance was also a struggle for Rotator specifically, failing to keep all the hair from tangling. Whereas the Navigator struggled with crevices. However, all other vacuums on this list had nearly perfect performance across the board.
Sealed System Comparison
For the sealed system test, we want to determine how well the entire vacuum system is sealed. Vacuums that are fully sealed ensure that dust and debris stay inside the vacuum. Vacuums that are not fully sealed may spread dust and debris around your home.
To test this, we set up a fog machine and placed the tube of the vacuum directly in front of the output nozzle. We then turn the vacuum on and release short bursts of smoke into the vacuum, checking how well the device is sealed.
| Vacuum | Dust Bin Seal |
|---|---|
| Dyson Ball Animal 3 | Completely Sealed |
| Shark Stratos Upright | Completely Sealed |
| Shark Apex Zero-M | Completely Sealed |
| Dyson Ball Animal 2 | Partially Sealed |
| Shark Vertex DuoClean | Completely Sealed |
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro | Completely Sealed |
| Shark Rotator Lift-Away | Completely Sealed |
Most of the uprights on this list are completely sealed. That said, if you pick up the Dyson Ball Animal 2, we found it to be partially sealed. However, the sealing is still effective enough to not warrant concern. In our view, the sealing has likely weakened over time as it is among the oldest vacuums we’ve tested and was used for many years to reset our cleaning test lane.
Noise Comparison
To measure how loud an upright is while in operation, we run the device in each power mode on high pile carpet. Using a sound meter, we measure the level of noise generated from about 3’ away.
| Vacuum | Ambient Noise | Power Mode 1 (Lowest) | Power Mode 2 | Power Mode 3 (Highest) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dyson Ball Animal 3 | 39.4 dB | 79.5 dB | 81.1 dB | n/a |
| Shark Stratos Upright | 40.7 dB | 73.3 dB | 73.8 dB | 74.7 dB |
| Shark Apex Zero-M | 39.4 dB | 76.8 dB | 77.9 dB | 78.4 dB |
| Dyson Ball Animal 2 | 39.4 dB | 79.3 dB | 80.4 dB | n/a |
| Shark Vertex DuoClean | 39.4 dB | 78.1 dB | 78.9 dB | 81.2 dB |
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro | 39.4 dB | 72.5 dB | 77.1 dB | n/a |
| Shark Rotator Lift-Away | 39.4 dB | 80.0 dB | n/a | n/a |
| Average Upright Vacuum | 39.5 dB | 79.1 dB | 78.2 dB | 78.1 dB |
There isn’t much variance in the noise levels of the vacuums on this list. They all have noise levels in the 77 – 82 dB range, with the Shark Navigator being the quietest at 77.1 dB.
Usability Comparison
Usability is excellent for each of these vacuums. They each come with a range of accessories that aid in cleaning situations and have decent maneuverability. That said, the Shark Rotator and Navigator do feel a little stiffer than the other vacuums on this list. It is easier to make tighter turns with the other vacuums like the Dyson Ball Animal 3 or Shark Startos. That said, the difference isn’t major.
The table below shows which features and accessories are included with each vacuum. Please keep in mind that some vacuums have multiple variants that may come with a different set of accessories.
| Accessory/Feature | Dyson Ball Animal 3 | Shark Stratos Upright | Shark Apex Zero-M | Dyson Ball Animal 2 | Shark Vertex DuoClean | Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro | Shark Rotator Lift-Away |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Cleaning Head | Yes, Motorbar | Yes, DuoClean PowerFins | Yes, DuoClean Zero-M | Yes | Yes, DuoClean PowerFins | Yes | Yes |
| Combination Tool | Yes | No | No | Yes, extends | No | No | No |
| Crevice Tool | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Stair Tool | Yes | No | No | Yes, adjustable | No | No | No |
| Upholstery Tool | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | No | Yes |
| Dusting Brush | No | No | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Pet Hair Tool | No | No | Yes | Yes, Turbine Tool | Yes, Pet Power Brush | Yes, Pet Power Brush | Yes, Pet Power Brush |
| Dust-Away | No | No | No | No | No | Yes | No |
| Under Appliance Wand | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Odor Neutralizer | No | Yes | No | No | No | No | No |
| Bagless Dust Bin | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Powered Lift-Away | No | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Washable Filters | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Cord Length | 35' | 30' | 30' | 35' | 30' | 30' | 30' |
| Dust Bin Capacity | 0.45 gal | 0.37 gal | 0.22 gal | 0.55 gal | 0.25 gal | 0.55 gal | 0.33 gal |
Maintenance Comparison
Maintenance is similar for these upright vacuums. You will need to maintain the device, wash or replace filters, and keep the dustbin empty.
| Vacuum | Estimated Annual Maintenance Costs |
|---|---|
| Dyson Ball Animal 3 | $00.00 |
| Shark Stratos Upright | $35.00 |
| Shark Apex Zero-M | $13.80 |
| Dyson Ball Animal 2 | $00.00 |
| Shark Vertex DuoClean | $4.00 |
| Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pro | $19.00 |
| Shark Rotator Lift-Away | $20.00 |
| Average Upright | $29.01 |
The most notable difference is that the low-end models have filters that need to be replaced rather than washed. This increases annual maintenance costs, which are already relatively low for an upright vacuum.
How We Test
We test and score upright vacuum cleaners using a battery of 11 data-driven tests. Our tests are a mix of objective testing and subjective assessment, taking into consideration cleaning performance, build quality, system sealing, usability, and maintenance.
To choose the best upright vacuum, we based our selection on the top-performing / highest-scoring upright vacuums according to our objective testing. These tests analyze the device’s performance across these 5 critical factors.
Additionally, price and value were also taken into consideration. While there are other upright vacuums that could have appeared on our list, we wanted to include the best options available for different price ranges.
Our testing process is detailed and rigorous. The links below have detailed write-ups and graphs to explain our testing process, scoring formulas, and the criteria for how we choose the best cordless stick vacuums.
How We Test & Score
How We Test & Score Uprights
All Upright Vacuum Reviews
| Model | Price | Debris Removal | Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shark APEX DuoClean Zero-M | $$$ | 99% | Read Review |
| Dyson Ball Animal 3 | $$$ | 99% | Read Review |
| Shark Vertex DuoClean | $$$ | 99% | Read Review |
| Shark Stratos Upright | $$$ | 99% | Read Review |
| Dyson Ball Multi Floor 2 | $$$ | 98% | Read Review |
| Dyson Ball Animal 2 | $$$ | 96% | Read Review |
| Shark Rotator Lift-Away | $$ | 86% | Read Review |
| Bissell Pet Hair Eraser | NA | 85% | Read Review |
| Hoover Windtunnel T-Series | $$ | 84% | Read Review |
| Bissell CleanView 9595A | $ | 84% | Read Review |
| Oreck Commercial XL | $$ | 84% | Read Review |
| Shark Navigator | $$ | 84% | Read Review |
| Hoover Sprint QuickVac | $ | 83% | Read Review |
| Hoover Tempo Widepath | $ | 58% | Read Review |
| Dyson Ball Animal Compact | $$ | 53% | Read Review |
Upright Vaccum Comparisons
- 9 Best Dyson Vacuums & Reviews
- 10 Best Shark Vacuums
- Shark vs. Dyson
- Miele vs. Dyson
- Hoover vs. Dyson
- Hoover vs. Bissell
- 12 Best Vacuum Cleaners for 2023
- The 7 Best Vacuums for Hardwood Floors
- 8 Best Vacuums for Pet Hair
- Dyson Animal vs. Animal 2 vs. Multi Floor 2 vs. Multi Floor Origin
- Dyson Animal 2 vs. Animal 3
- Shark Stratos vs. Vertex vs. Apex
- Shark Vertex vs. Apex
- Shark Navigator vs. Rotator
- Bissell Crosswave vs. Hoover Floormate
More Resources
- How to Get Acrylic Paint Out of Carpet
- How to Remove Blood Stains from Everything
- How to Clean Windows like a Professional
- How to Remove Dog & Cat Hair Around Your Home
- How to Make a Natural Wood Floor Cleaner
- How to Make Natural Household Cleaners
- How to Make a Natural Grout Cleaner
- How to Clean & Sanitize Your Kid’s Toys
- How to Vacuum
- Home Cleaning Schedule
- What is dust made of?
- 21 Dirty Spots in Your Home That Need Vacuuming
- 5 Mistakes You’re Making When Cleaning Hardwood, Tile, & Carpet
The Last Word
If you still are not sure which upright vacuum is the right choice for your home, please drop us a comment below or send us an email, and we’d be happy to help you decide.
In addition, if you feel like we’ve missed out on a particular model, let us know!