7 Best Vacuums for Carpets 2026

Deep-cleaning power meets allergen-sealing precision in the Shark NV360, a standout performer for homes dominated by carpeted surfaces. With multi-surface suction driven by Shark’s signature cyclonic tech, this upright vacuum doesn’t just skim the surface—it aggressively pulls embedded dirt from deep within high-pile carpets while its HEPA filter and complete seal system trap 99.9% of dust and allergens. The lift-away pod transforms it into a portable unit, making it effortless to clean stairs, under furniture, or upholstery, directly tackling one of the biggest pain points for carpeted-home owners: hard-to-reach spots.

In real-world testing, the NV360 shines on thick carpets, where its dual brushroll system and 0.9-quart dust cup handle prolonged cleaning sessions without clogging or suction loss. Swivel steering allows razor-sharp turns around coffee tables and tight corners, while the brushroll shutoff lets you glide smoothly over hardwood without scattering debris. It handles transitions between carpet and tile with ease, though the weight (13 lbs) can make upstairs cleaning slightly taxing over time. On low-pile rugs, the suction remains strong, but finer dust particles occasionally require a second pass.

Compared to the Eureka PowerSpeed models, the NV360 trades raw carpet-penetrating power for superior filtration and versatility—making it ideal for allergy sufferers or pet owners who need more than just deep cleaning. While not the lightest upright on the market, its lift-away design and included tools give it an edge over simpler models like the Amazon Basics. It delivers a balanced blend of performance, filtration, and flexibility, outperforming budget models in durability and feature set while staying more accessible than premium Shark variants.

The Shark NV356E earns its title as the best overall vacuum for carpets by masterfully blending deep-cleaning muscle with allergen-taming intelligence. Its anti-allergen complete seal works in tandem with a certified HEPA filter to capture 99.9% of particles as small as 0.3 microns—making it a lifesaver for asthmatics and pet owners. The lift-away pod doesn’t just add convenience; it redefines cleaning agility, letting you vacuum ceilings, stairs, and furniture without lugging the entire unit. With swivel steering and a brushroll shutoff, it transitions seamlessly between plush carpets and delicate hardwood, solving the age-old vacuum dilemma: power versus surface safety.

During rigorous testing, the NV356E consistently extracted deeply embedded pet hair and fine dust from medium-pile carpets, thanks to its high-torque motor and optimized airflow. The 0.87L dust cup holds up well during full-home sessions, and the included pet power brush significantly improves pickup on upholstery and area rugs. On hard floors, scatter is minimal, and the dusting brush excels on blinds and electronics. However, the vacuum’s performance dips slightly on ultra-thick shag carpets, where the brushroll can struggle to maintain optimal contact without manual height adjustments.

Against the Bissell CleanView Swivel, the NV356E delivers better filtration and more versatile attachments, while outclassing the Amazon Basics in build quality and suction control. It doesn’t have the raw power of the Eureka PowerSpeed for deep carpet cleaning, but its all-around competence makes it the most well-rounded choice. For users who want one vacuum to rule all surfaces and allergy concerns, this model offers unmatched feature density and real-world adaptability.

Don’t let the budget-friendly tag fool you—the Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum punches far above its weight with impressive reach and surprising suction for low-pile to medium carpets. At just 8.4 pounds, it’s one of the most effortless uprights to maneuver, especially for quick cleanups or upstairs use. The 1.7L dust cup is a game-changer, allowing for extended cleaning without constant emptying, while the 25-foot cord eliminates the need for outlet-hopping across large rooms. For homeowners seeking a no-frills, reliable carpet vacuum that won’t break the bank, this model delivers essential functionality without fluff.

In performance tests, it handled everyday dust, cereal spills, and light pet hair with commendable efficiency on short-pile carpets and area rugs. The detachable handle doubles as a handheld unit, and the included upholstery and crevice tools make it surprisingly versatile for furniture and tight corners. However, on high-pile or heavily soiled carpets, the suction falters—embedded dirt often requires multiple passes, and the motor lacks the torque to fully extract deep debris. The 720W motor is adequate but not powerful, and the lack of brushroll shutoff means transitions to hardwood aren’t as seamless.

When stacked against the Eureka PowerSpeed or Shark NV360, the Amazon Basics model clearly sacrifices deep-cleaning capability for affordability and portability. Yet, for renters, small apartments, or secondary homes where carpets aren’t high-traffic, it’s an excellent value-driven solution. It won’t replace a premium vacuum in a pet-heavy or allergy-prone household, but as a light-duty, low-maintenance workhorse, it outperforms expectations for its class.

Meet the featherweight champion of carpet cleaning: the Shark Rocket HV301, a sub-9-pound powerhouse that transforms from upright to handheld in seconds—ideal for homes where stairs, furniture, and ceilings are as important as floor space. Its ultra-light design doesn’t compromise suction; the corded motor delivers consistent power across carpets, pulling up pet hair and fine dust without fading. The swivel steering makes it uncannily agile, gliding around table legs and under sofas with precision that belies its compact size. For anyone who dreads hauling heavy vacuums up stairs, this model is a true game-changer.

Real-world testing confirms its strength on low to medium-pile carpets, where it cleans efficiently in a single pass and transitions cleanly to bare floors. The fingertip controls let you switch between surfaces without bending down, and the easy-empty dust cup minimizes mess. However, on thick, shaggy carpets, it lacks the downward pressure and brushroll power to extract deeply embedded debris—performance drops when full contact isn’t maintained. The included tools—crevice, dusting brush, and upholstery nozzle—snap neatly into place, enhancing its floor-to-ceiling versatility.

Compared to the Eureka PowerSpeed, the HV301 trades raw carpet-cleaning force for unmatched portability and conversion flexibility. It’s not built for deep weekly cleans on wall-to-wall plush carpet, but for quick, daily maintenance and multi-surface reach, it’s unmatched. For pet owners with stairs or allergy sufferers needing to clean upholstery regularly, it offers a level of convenience that heavier models simply can’t match, all backed by a 5-year warranty that speaks to its durability.

The 2024 Bissell CleanView Swivel enters the ring with a triple-action brush roll that aggressively loosens, lifts, and removes pet hair and ground-in dirt—making it a top contender for homes ruled by cats and dogs. Its scatter-free technology is a revelation on hard floors, where most vacuums kick debris forward; here, messes are captured on the first pass, reducing cleanup time significantly. The active extension wand extends reach under sofas and beds without bending, while swivel steering ensures smooth navigation around furniture legs. For pet owners tired of fur tumbleweeds and scattered kibble, this vacuum delivers targeted, no-nonsense performance.

In testing, the triple brushroll system proved highly effective on medium-pile carpets, lifting matted pet hair and dander with minimal effort. The multi-cyclonic suction maintains strong airflow, and the easy-empty dirt tank minimizes hand contact with debris—always a win. However, on thick carpets, the brushroll can bog down, and the lack of height adjustment means it’s less precise than models like the Eureka PowerSpeed. The cord length (25 ft) is generous, but the vacuum itself is on the heavier side (14 lbs), making it less ideal for frequent stair use.

Against the Shark NV360, the Bissell trades HEPA filtration and lift-away convenience for superior pet hair agitation and scatter control. It doesn’t offer the same allergen-sealing benefits, but for pet-centric homes with mixed flooring, it’s a focused performer. If your primary battle is against shedding pets and scattered messes, this model out-handles and out-performs many in its class, offering specialized tools for real-life chaos.

When deep carpet cleaning is the mission, the Eureka PowerSpeed steps up with raw, unfiltered suction powered by an upgraded cyclone system that pulverizes dust, dirt, and even microscopic allergens. Its 5 height settings let you fine-tune the cleaning depth—crucial for everything from low-pile rugs to plush berbers—ensuring optimal brushroll contact and maximum debris extraction. The powerful pick-up doesn’t just vacuum; it revives tired carpets by pulling up years of embedded grime, making it a favorite for deep-cleaning enthusiasts. For those who prioritize cleaning depth over portability, this model is a no-compromise workhorse.

In real-world use, the PowerSpeed excels in single-pass deep cleans, especially on medium to high-pile carpets where its adjustable settings allow precise control. The onboard accessories—including a 7-inch crevice tool and upholstery nozzle—make above-floor cleaning convenient, and the 99.9% dust-trapping seal helps with allergens. However, the roller brush clogs easily with pet hair, requiring bi-weekly maintenance to avoid performance drops or potential smoke risk—a notable drawback for long-term ease of use. On hardwood, it performs adequately but lacks the finesse of models with automatic shutoff.

Compared to the Shark NV360, the PowerSpeed sacrifices filtration and swivel agility for brute carpet-cleaning power. It’s not as nimble or allergen-focused, but for users who deep-clean weekly and need maximum penetration, it delivers unmatched value. It outperforms the Amazon Basics in suction and control, making it the go-to for carpet purists who want professional-level results at home.

The Eureka NEU181A PowerSpeed strikes a perfect balance between power and practicality, earning its title as the best value vacuum for carpets and pets. At just 10 pounds, it’s light enough for daily use, yet houses a 960-watt motor that delivers consistent, heavyweight suction across carpets, rugs, and hardwood. The 2.6-liter dust cup is one of the largest in class, reducing emptying frequency—ideal for large homes or heavy shedding seasons. With 5-height brushroll adjustment and a pet turbo brush, it adapts seamlessly to different surfaces and fur types, solving the common pain point of needing multiple tools for one clean.

Testing shows strong performance on medium-pile carpets, where it extracts embedded pet hair and dander with minimal passes. The turbo brush is a standout, significantly outperforming basic upholstery tools on couches and car seats. Transitions to hardwood are smooth thanks to height adjustment, and the onboard storage keeps tools accessible. However, like its sibling model, it requires regular roller maintenance to prevent clogs—especially in homes with long-haired pets. The build feels sturdy but not premium, with some plastic components that may wear over years.

Against the Shark NV356E, the NEU181A trades HEPA filtration and lift-away versatility for lower cost and larger capacity. It doesn’t seal allergens as tightly, but for pet owners on a budget who need power and convenience, it’s a smarter long-term investment. It delivers more cleaning muscle per dollar than any other model here, making it the ideal pick for families who want performance without overspending.