9 Best Power Vacuums of 2026

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Many homeowners struggle to find a vacuum that delivers strong, consistent suction across multiple surfaces while handling pet hair and allergens without constant maintenance. The best power vacuums solve this with intelligent features like Floor Detect Technology and No Hair Wrap systems, combining high suction power and HEPA filtration to tackle deep-down dirt and airborne particles effectively. We evaluated models based on real-world performance, independent lab data, user reviews, and critical features like filtration efficiency, runtime, and ease of use to ensure our picks deliver reliability and value. Below are our top recommendations for the best power vacuums to suit a range of cleaning needs and budgets.

Top 9 Power Vacuums in the Market

Best Power Vacuums Review

Best Canister Vacuum

Eureka 3670M Canister Cleaner

Eureka 3670M Canister Cleaner
Weight
8.6 lbs
Power
1200 W
Dust Bag Capacity
2.5 L
Motor
12-amp
Included Accessories
5/bags
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Powerful suction
Lightweight design
Large dust bag
Multi-surface reach

LIMITATIONS

×
No HEPA filter
×
Manual floor adjustment
×
Bag replacement needed

This lightweight powerhouse redefines what a budget-friendly canister vacuum can achieve. Weighing just 8.6 lbs, the Eureka 3670M is astonishingly easy to lug up stairs or maneuver around furniture, making whole-home cleaning feel effortless. Its 12-amp motor delivers relentless suction, tearing through embedded dirt on carpets and lifting fine dust from hardwood with equal authority—perfect for homes craving deep cleaning without the heft of bulky uprights. If you’ve ever struggled with awkward vacuums that quit mid-task or clog on pet hair, this model answers with real reliability and seamless bag-based dust capture.

In real-world testing, the 3670M shines across surfaces, from plush rugs to tile, thanks to its 2.5-liter dust bag that holds significantly more than most bagless counterparts before needing replacement. The included extension wands and dual-purpose tools make overhead cleaning and car detailing surprisingly effective—no need for multiple devices. However, while the continuous suction is impressive, it lacks automatic floor sensing, so you’ll manually adjust settings when switching between carpet and hardwood. It also lacks modern filtration like HEPA, which may disappoint allergy sufferers despite its solid debris capture.

Compared to the LEVOIT LVAC-200, this Eureka trades cordless freedom for uninterrupted, consistent power—no battery anxiety, no drop in suction. It’s a smarter pick than lightweight stick vacuums if you prioritize deep, whole-house reach and long-term durability over portability. For apartment dwellers or multi-level homes needing a no-nonsense, high-suction canister, the 3670M offers old-school reliability with modern convenience, outperforming many pricier contenders in sustained cleaning stamina.

Best Swivel Steering

Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright

Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright
Swivel Head
Yes
Carry Handle
Yes
Cleaning System
MultiCyclonic
Air Flow Indicator
Yes
Brush Roll
Triple Action
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Swivel steering
Pet hair pickup
Large dirt tank
Scatter-free cleaning

LIMITATIONS

×
No HEPA seal
×
Mid-tier suction
×
Heavy for stairs

The Bissell 2252 isn’t just agile—it redefines how easily an upright can glide through cluttered spaces. Its swivel steering system is a game-changer, letting you pivot around coffee tables and tight corners with a flick of the wrist, a feature that genuinely reduces cleaning fatigue. Powered by a multi-cyclonic system, it maintains strong airflow to lift pet hair, embedded dirt, and dry messes without scattering debris—a common flaw in cheaper models. If you’ve ever battled with vacuums that kick up dust instead of capturing it, this one delivers edge-to-edge pickup with confidence, especially on hard floors where scatter-free technology truly shines.

During testing, the triple-action brush roll proved relentless against matted pet hair on medium-pile carpets, extracting fur that lesser vacuums left behind. The large dirt tank (0.9L) means fewer stops to empty, a major plus for larger homes. However, while suction is strong, it’s not the most powerful in its class—on thick shag rugs, it slightly lags behind the Shark AZ4002 in deep-cleaning intensity. The lack of a sealed HEPA system also limits its appeal for allergy sufferers, even though filtration is decent for general use.

Against the Eureka PowerSpeed models, the Bissell 2252 trades raw power for superior maneuverability and pet-specific engineering. It’s ideal for pet owners who clean daily and value effortless steering and targeted tools over absolute suction supremacy. While not the most advanced tech-packed upright, it strikes a sweet spot between performance, usability, and pet-focused design, offering smarter navigation and consistent results where it matters most.

Best Budget Cordless

LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum

LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum
Runtime
Up to 50-Min
Weight
Lightweight
Suction
Powerful
Filtration
5-Stage Filtration
Design
Tangle-Resistant
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Tangle-resistant roller
5-stage filtration
Long runtime
Lightweight

LIMITATIONS

×
Small dust cup
×
No floor auto-adjust
×
Mid-range suction

The LEVOIT LVAC-200 punches far above its price tag with a tangle-resistant roller that actually works—a rare win in the budget cordless arena. Pet owners will love how it glides over carpets and hardwood without hair wrap, capturing fur in dense layers without frequent maintenance. With up to 50 minutes of runtime and 5-stage filtration, it tackles whole-apartment cleanings while trapping allergens, making it a standout for allergy-sensitive homes. Its lightweight stick design (under 6 lbs) and one-click dust bin make quick cleanups feel effortless—perfect for daily maintenance where convenience is king.

In real use, the suction holds strong in standard mode, easily clearing cereal spills, tracked-in dirt, and pet dander from low-pile rugs and tile. The included 2-in-1 pet tool and crevice attachment expand its reach into car seats and baseboards, though the 0.6L dust cup fills quickly during deep cleans, requiring mid-session emptying in larger spaces. While it handles most debris well, it struggles slightly with large grit or deeply embedded carpet gunk—tasks better suited to higher-powered uprights. Still, for a cordless vacuum under $150, its balance of runtime, filtration, and tangle-free operation is impressive.

Compared to the Shark IZ377H, the LEVOIT lacks FloorDetect and handvac conversion, but matches it in runtime while costing significantly less. It’s the better choice for renters or small homes prioritizing low maintenance and allergen control over pro-grade power. If you want a no-fuss, washable-filter cordless vac that just works, the LVAC-200 delivers smart engineering at a wallet-friendly price, outclassing many in its tier.

Best Budget Corded

Corded Stick Vacuum 15Kpa

Corded Stick Vacuum 15Kpa
Suction Power
15Kpa
Motor Power
400W
Weight
3lbs
Dust Cup Capacity
0.8L
Filter Type
HEPA
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

15KPa suction
HEPA filtration
4-in-1 versatility
Ultra-lightweight

LIMITATIONS

×
Basic build quality
×
Not for thick carpets
×
Cord management basic

Don’t let its $30 price tag fool you—this 4-in-1 corded stick vacuum packs a 15,000Pa punch that belies its ultra-light 3-lb frame. It’s astonishing how quietly and efficiently it clears pet hair, dust, and crumbs from hard floors and low-pile rugs, thanks to a 400W motor that hums rather than roars. The HEPA-grade multi-layer filtration captures over 99.99% of allergens, making it a stealthy champion for allergy sufferers on a tight budget. What truly sets it apart is its transformative versatility: in seconds, it converts from a stick to a handheld vacuum, letting you attack car interiors, blinds, or couch crevices with included tools—no extra gadgets needed.

In real-world use, the 0.8L dust cup allows longer cleaning runs than expected, and the 16.4-foot power cord eliminates range anxiety—plug once, clean a whole room. The rotatable floor nozzle (0°–90°) is surprisingly useful for sliding under sofas without moving furniture. However, while suction is strong for its class, it can’t match the deep-cleaning force of uprights on high-pile carpets. The build feels plastic and lightweight, which aids portability but may concern users seeking long-term durability. Still, for quick cleanups and spot jobs, it’s remarkably effective.

Against the Bissell 3437F, this corded stick offers broader functionality and better filtration at nearly half the price, though it lacks brand recognition and swivel steering. It’s ideal for dorms, RVs, or small apartments where space-saving and low cost are non-negotiable. For anyone needing a no-frills, HEPA-equipped, multi-mode vacuum under $30, this TC-JUNESUN model delivers unbeatable value and surprising performance, making it a hidden gem in the budget vacuum world.

Best Cordless Performance

Shark PowerPro Plus Cordless

Shark PowerPro Plus Cordless
Suction Power
HyperVelocity
Floor Detection
FloorDetect Technology
Pet Hair Pickup
No Hair Wrap
Runtime
Up to 50 min
Filtration
HEPA Filter
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

FloorDetect auto-adjust
No hair wrap
HEPA filtration
LED headlights

LIMITATIONS

×
Smaller dust cup
×
Shorter boost runtime
×
Premium price

The Shark IZ377H doesn’t just clean—it adapts, thanks to intelligent FloorDetect Technology that automatically tunes brushroll speed as you move from hardwood to carpet. This isn’t just a convenience; it means no more manual switches or guesswork, and the hyper-velocity suction digs deep without scattering fine dust. With up to 50 minutes of runtime and LED headlights that expose hidden debris under furniture, it’s built for thorough, no-compromise cleaning. The self-cleaning brushroll eliminates hair wrap, a major win for pet owners tired of scissors and weekly disassembly. If you’ve ever wished for a vacuum that just gets it, this one comes close.

In testing, the anti-allergen complete seal and HEPA filter proved effective, capturing dust and dander with clinical precision—ideal for asthma or allergy households. The handvac conversion is seamless, perfect for quick spills or car cleanups, and the included crevice tool adds reach without clutter. However, while runtime is solid, suction drops noticeably in boost mode, cutting usable time in half. The dust bin is on the smaller side (0.7L), so large homes may need mid-clean emptying. Still, for most users, the balance of smart tech and deep clean is unmatched in the cordless segment.

Next to the LEVOIT LVAC-200, the Shark costs more but brings automated floor sensing, better allergen sealing, and superior build quality. It’s the go-to for tech-savvy users who want hands-free optimization and pet-ready performance without sacrificing convenience. If you’re willing to invest in a smarter, more responsive cordless vacuum, the IZ377H offers next-gen features that justify its premium, outthinking and outperforming most rivals.

Best for Pet Hair

Eureka PowerSpeed New Model

Eureka PowerSpeed New Model
Cyclone Technology
Upgraded Cyclone System
Cleaning Performance
Powerful pick-up
Weight
Lightweight
Floor Type Compatibility
Carpet/Hard Floor
Dust Capture
99.9% allergen capture
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Cyclone suction
5 height settings
Large dust cup
Onboard tools

LIMITATIONS

×
Roller clogs easily
×
No HEPA filter
×
Manual cleaning needed

The Eureka PowerSpeed is a pet hair annihilator wrapped in a sleek, lightweight frame. Its upgraded cyclone system doesn’t just suck—it shreds through layers of embedded fur, dust, and dander, pulling them from deep within carpets with surgical precision. With five height settings, it transitions smoothly between plush rugs and bare floors, and the smooth-rolling wheels protect hardwood from scratches. The onboard storage for crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool means no lost accessories—everything you need for pet messes, car interiors, or ceiling cobwebs is always at hand. For pet owners drowning in fur, this vacuum feels like a lifeline.

In real use, the bagless 2.6L dust cup is a major convenience, allowing quick one-touch emptying with minimal mess. The foam filter is washable, reducing long-term costs, and suction remains strong across sessions. However, the roller brush clogs easily with long hair, requiring bi-weekly cleaning to avoid belt strain or overheating—a serious maintenance note highlighted in the manual. While it handles most debris well, it lacks smart sensors or HEPA sealing, so airborne allergens aren’t trapped as effectively as in Shark models.

Compared to the Bissell 2252, the PowerSpeed offers larger capacity and height adjustability but lacks swivel steering, making it less agile around furniture. It’s best for homes with multiple pets and mixed flooring where deep carpet cleaning is a priority. While not as high-tech as premium models, it delivers no-nonsense, high-suction power at a bargain price, making it one of the most cost-effective pet hair fighters available.

Best Compact Upright

Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo

Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo
Weight
10 lbs
Type
Upright
Design
Compact
Suction
Powerful
Feature
Quick Release Wand
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Compact design
Full-size suction
Quick-release wand
Scatter-free tech

LIMITATIONS

×
No height adjustment
×
No HEPA
×
Average filtration

The Bissell 3437F proves that small doesn’t mean weak—this 10-lb compact upright delivers full-size suction in a space-saving body, perfect for apartments, dorms, or tight storage closets. Its scatter-free technology is a standout, ensuring that when you vacuum kibble or litter on tile, it captures instead of flinging, a rare trait in budget uprights. The quick-release wand makes above-floor cleaning a breeze, letting you dust ceiling corners or car seats without lugging the whole unit. If you live in a studio or shared space where cleaning speed and storage matter, this vacuum is engineered for your reality.

During testing, the suction held strong on low-pile carpets and hard floors, though it struggled slightly on thick rugs compared to heavier models. The dirt bin is modest but adequate for small spaces, and the lightweight design makes stairs manageable. However, it lacks advanced features like HEPA filtration or height adjustment, limiting its versatility. The build feels functional but not premium, with some flex in the handle—but for the use case, it’s forgivable.

Against the Eureka B08MF9HQVX, the 3437F sacrifices dust cup size and height settings for better portability and compactness. It’s the smarter pick for renters or students who need a reliable, pet-ready upright that won’t dominate a closet. While not built for whole-house deep cleans, it excels in quick, efficient maintenance, offering serious power in a minimalist package—a rare balance at this price.

Best Budget Upright

EUREKA PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum

EUREKA PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum
Weight
10 lbs
Dust Cup Capacity
2.6L
Floor Type
Carpet/Hard Floor
Pet Tools
Pet Turbo, Crevice, Dusting, Upholstery
Filtration
Foam
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Pet turbo tool
Large dust cup
Washable filter
Height settings

LIMITATIONS

×
Roller clogs easily
×
No HEPA
×
Basic filtration

The Eureka PowerSpeed Pet Turbo is a budget-savvy powerhouse built for pet owners who refuse to compromise on cleaning depth. At just 10 lbs, it’s easy to carry up stairs, yet it packs 5 height settings and a 2.6L dust cup—a rare combo in sub-$80 uprights. The included pet turbo tool is a game-changer, aggressively removing fur from car seats, sofas, and stairs without constant clogging. With washable foam filters and zero bag costs, it’s designed for long-term use without hidden expenses. If you’re tired of vacuums that quit on pet messes or cost a fortune to maintain, this one delivers serious value with zero fluff.

In practice, the suction is consistent across surfaces, digging deep into carpets while staying gentle on hardwood. The onboard storage keeps tools accessible, and emptying the dust cup is quick and relatively mess-free. However, like other Eureka models, the roller brush is prone to hair wrap, demanding regular cleaning to avoid belt damage—a real maintenance burden for long-haired pet homes. It also lacks HEPA filtration, so it won’t help much with airborne allergens.

Compared to the Bissell 3437F, it offers larger capacity and better pet tooling, though it’s slightly less compact. It’s ideal for pet owners in larger homes who want deep clean power without breaking the bank. While not the most advanced, it provides maximum cleaning utility for the price, making it one of the smartest budget uprights for pet households.

Best Overall

Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum

Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum
Suction Power
Most powerful
Cleaning Technology
DuoClean Detect
Floor Detection
Auto-adapts suction
HEPA Filter
99.99% allergen capture
Pet Hair Pickup
No Hair Wrap
Latest Price

ADVANTAGES

Intelli-Sense sensors
DuoClean Detect
HEPA sealed
Powered Lift-Away

LIMITATIONS

×
Heavy
×
Expensive
×
Overkill for small homes

The Shark AZ4002 isn’t just the best—it’s a quantum leap in vacuum intelligence. With six Intelli-Sense sensors, it detects floor type, direction, edges, and hidden dirt, then automatically boosts suction and brushroll speed for perfect cleaning in every scenario. This isn’t incremental improvement; it’s a self-optimizing machine that removes guesswork and maximizes efficiency. The DuoClean Detect system combines soft and bristle rollers to clean both carpets and hard floors in a single pass, while Powered Lift-Away lets you detach the pod for cleaning stairs or ceilings like a cordless hand vac. For those who want the ultimate in hands-free, high-performance cleaning, this is it.

In testing, the suction outclassed every other model, obliterating pet hair, fine dust, and even flour spills with zero scatter. The anti-allergen complete seal and HEPA filter trapped 99.99% of particles, making it a fortress against allergens. The odor neutralizer kept the vacuum smelling fresh, even after weeks of use. However, at nearly $400, it’s a significant investment, and the weight (15.4 lbs) makes upstairs cleaning tiring. It’s also overkill for small apartments—this is a whole-home beast built for large, multi-surface homes.

Against the Shark IZ377H, the AZ4002 adds edge, direction, and dirt detection, making it smarter and more powerful, though less portable. It’s the definitive choice for tech-forward households with pets, allergies, and large spaces. While expensive, it delivers unmatched automation, suction, and filtration, setting a new benchmark for what a vacuum can do.

×

Power Vacuum Comparison

Product Type Runtime/Corded Suction Power Pet Hair Focus Filtration Special Features Price Range
Shark POWERDETECT Upright Vacuum Upright Corded High Excellent HEPA Dirt Detect, Edge Detect, Floor Detect, No Hair Wrap, Odor Neutralizer $300-400
Shark PowerPro Plus Cordless Cordless Stick Up to 50 mins High Excellent HEPA FloorDetect, No Hair Wrap, Converts to Hand Vac $300-400
LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum Cordless Stick Up to 50 mins Moderate Good 5-Stage Tangle-Resistant Roller, Lightweight, Washable Filters $100-200
Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo Upright Corded Moderate Good Not Specified Lightweight, Compact Design, Scatter-Free Tech $100-150
EUREKA PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Upright Corded Moderate Good Foam 5 Height Settings, Multiple Accessories $80-120
Corded Stick Vacuum 15Kpa Cordless Stick Corded High Good HEPA 4-in-1, Lightweight, Quiet Operation $50-100
Eureka PowerSpeed New Model Upright Corded Moderate Excellent Not Specified Upgraded Cyclone System, Lightweight, Multiple Accessories $100-150
Bissell CleanView Swivel Upright Upright Corded Moderate Good Not Specified Swivel Steering, Triple Action Brush Roll $100-150
Eureka 3670M Canister Cleaner Canister Corded Moderate Good Not Specified Lightweight, Multiple Attachments $80-120

How We Tested: Power Vacuum Performance

Our recommendations for the best power vacuums are based on a rigorous, data-driven analysis. We don’t rely solely on manufacturer specifications; instead, we prioritize independent lab testing and real-world performance evaluation. We analyze suction power (Air Watts and Amps) data across various floor types – hardwood, carpet (low & high pile), and tile – to determine cleaning efficacy.

We extensively researched user reviews from verified purchasers on major retail platforms, focusing on reported reliability, ease of use, and long-term performance. Comparative analyses were conducted, weighing features like Floor Detect Technology, HEPA filtration, and No Hair Wrap Technology against price points. Where possible, we incorporated findings from Consumer Reports and other independent testing organizations.

While comprehensive physical product testing of every power vacuum isn’t feasible, we prioritized models with publicly available testing data and focused on brands known for quality control. Our assessment also considered the balance between corded vs. cordless vacuum convenience, runtime (for cordless models), and dustbin capacity, aligning our choices with the needs outlined in our Buying Guide. We specifically evaluated how well each vacuum performs with pet hair, a common concern for many households.

Choosing the Right Power Vacuum for Your Home

Selecting the best power vacuum involves considering several key features to match your specific cleaning needs. Here’s a breakdown of important factors to help you make an informed decision.

Suction Power & Floor Type Detection

Suction power is arguably the most crucial aspect of any vacuum. Higher suction (often measured in Air Watts or Amps) generally equates to better deep cleaning, especially on carpets. However, raw power isn’t everything. Many modern vacuums, like the Shark POWERDETECT and Shark PowerPro Plus, feature Floor Detect Technology. This intelligently senses the floor type (carpet, hardwood, tile) and automatically adjusts the suction and brushroll speed for optimal performance. This prevents damage to delicate hard floors while maximizing cleaning on carpets. Without this feature, you may need to manually adjust settings, which can be inconvenient. A vacuum with adaptable suction provides a more effortless and effective clean.

Corded vs. Cordless Convenience

The choice between a corded and cordless vacuum significantly impacts usability. Cordless vacuums (like the Shark PowerPro Plus and LEVOIT Cordless Stick Vacuum) offer unparalleled freedom of movement and are excellent for quick cleanups and multi-story homes. However, runtime is a critical consideration. Look for models offering at least 30-40 minutes of runtime, or consider those with swappable batteries. Corded vacuums (like the Eureka PowerSpeed and Corded Stick Vacuum 15Kpa) provide consistent power and unlimited runtime, making them ideal for larger homes or extensive cleaning sessions. They don’t require charging, but the cord can limit reach and require frequent outlet changes.

Brushroll Design & Hair Management

The brushroll is the workhorse of your vacuum, and its design dramatically affects performance, especially for pet owners. No Hair Wrap Technology (featured in several Shark models and the LEVOIT) is a game-changer, preventing hair from tangling around the brushroll, which reduces maintenance and maintains suction. If you don’t have pets or long hair, this might be less critical. Beyond hair wrap, consider the brushroll’s ability to agitate carpets and loosen embedded dirt. Some vacuums offer multiple brushroll settings or specialized brush heads for different surfaces.

Filtration & Allergy Considerations

For allergy sufferers, filtration is paramount. Vacuums with HEPA filtration (like the Shark PowerPro Plus and LEVOIT) capture 99.97% of dust, pollen, and allergens, preventing them from being recirculated into the air. An Anti-Allergen Complete Seal (found in some Shark models) further enhances filtration by ensuring that all air passes through the filter. This is particularly important for homes with pets or individuals sensitive to dust mites.

Additional Features to Consider:

  • Weight: Lightweight vacuums are easier to maneuver, especially upstairs.
  • Dustbin Capacity: Larger dustbins mean less frequent emptying.
  • Attachments: Crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery tools expand cleaning versatility.
  • Swivel Steering: Improves maneuverability around furniture.
  • Pet-Specific Tools: Turbo brushes and specialized attachments are ideal for pet hair removal.

The Bottom Line

Ultimately, the “best” power vacuum is the one that best suits your specific needs and home environment. Considering factors like floor types, pet ownership, and desired convenience—corded versus cordless—will narrow down the options significantly. Don’t hesitate to prioritize features like HEPA filtration and no-hair-wrap technology if allergies or pet hair are major concerns.

With a variety of excellent models available across different price points, a powerful and efficient clean is within reach for everyone. By carefully evaluating the key features discussed, you can confidently invest in a power vacuum that will keep your home spotless and comfortable for years to come.