7 Best Self-Propelled Vacuums of 2026

The Shark POWERDETECT AZ4002 isn’t just another upright—it’s a self-propelled intelligence revolution on wheels. With Intelli-Sense floor, edge, dirt, and direction detection, this vacuum actively adapts to your home’s unique cleaning demands in real time, delivering maximum suction only where needed. Its DuoClean Detect system combines a soft roller for hard floors and a PowerFin brushroll for carpets, ensuring seamless transitions and zero performance drop-off across surfaces. If you’re tired of manually adjusting settings or missing hidden debris, this model erases those frustrations with autonomous precision.

In real-world testing, the POWERDETECT proved its dominance on both plush carpets and tile. The ultrasonic floor detection instantly recognized surface changes, ramping up suction on rugs while preserving brushroll speed on hardwood—no audible lag or guesswork. During forward and reverse passes, Direction Detect ensured powerful pickup in both motions, a game-changer for quick cleanups. The Edge Detect feature boosted suction within two inches of baseboards, extracting years of embedded grime without requiring a crevice tool. However, the 30-foot cord, while generous, can snag on doorjambs during whole-home sessions, and the motorized pod, though powerful, adds noticeable weight when lifting for stairs.

Positioned as the best overall self-propelled vacuum, the AZ4002 outclasses even Shark’s own Vertex and Rotator models with its sensor-driven automation and elite debris capture. It’s overkill for small, pet-free apartments but perfect for larger homes with mixed flooring and persistent pet hair. Compared to the Kenmore DU1275, it’s in a completely different league—offering adaptive intelligence versus basic mechanics—though it demands a higher investment. For those who want a “set-it-and-forget-it” cleaning experience with lab-verified suction superiority, this is the peak of what self-propelled tech can deliver.

Meet the Shark Vertex AZ2002—a muscular middle ground between raw power and smart design, engineered for homes that demand serious cleaning without complexity. With 1,344 watts of suction and DuoClean PowerFins, it digs deep into carpets while maintaining direct contact on hardwood, eliminating the need to switch modes manually. The self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer for pet owners, effortlessly shedding hair instead of tangling—no scissors required. If your vacuum usually chokes on fur bunnies or loses suction on transitions, this model crushes those pain points with confidence.

During extended cleaning runs, the 1-quart dust cup proved its worth, lasting through 1,800 sq ft homes without a single empty. The Powered Lift-Away pod allowed us to motorize clean under sofas and up stairs without losing brushroll momentum—a rare feature in this price range. LED headlights revealed dust bunnies under beds, and Active Glide technology made gliding over thresholds smooth, even on low-pile rugs. However, on thick shag carpets, the brushroll occasionally bogged down, requiring a slight lift to regain speed. While not as automated as the POWERDETECT, it delivers consistent, high-level performance without relying on finicky sensors.

When stacked against the Shark LA502, the Vertex trades some lightweight agility for more power and a larger debris capacity, making it better suited for larger homes. It outperforms the Eureka NEU10AE4 in suction and durability while costing only slightly more—offering real value for pet-heavy households. For those who want Shark’s top-tier cleaning tech without the premium price tag of the AZ4002, the Vertex hits the sweet spot between performance, versatility, and affordability.

The Shark LA502 redefines what lightweight means in a high-performance vacuum—delivering DuoClean PowerFins and HEPA-grade filtration in a body lighter than most entry-level models. Weighing in at under 13 lbs, it’s effortless to carry up stairs or maneuver around dining chairs, yet it packs enough suction to pull embedded pet hair from medium-pile carpets. The self-cleaning brushroll lives up to its promise, shedding clumps of dog hair during operation—no wrap, no fuss. For pet owners tired of wrestling with heavy vacuums or clogged rollers, this model is a breath of fresh air.

In daily use, the LED headlights exposed dust under low-clearance furniture, while Swivel Steering made tight turns around entertainment centers feel natural. The lift-away pod detached smoothly for cleaning car interiors and window sills, and the HEPA filter with anti-allergen seal captured fine dust, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. However, the smaller dust cup required emptying mid-clean in larger homes, and the suction, while strong, couldn’t match the Vertex or POWERDETECT on deeply embedded debris. It’s not the most powerful, but it’s optimized for convenience and consistency.

Compared to the Kenmore DU1275, the LA502 offers superior pet hair handling and filtration, though it lacks onboard tool variety. Against the Bissell 39883, it wins on maneuverability and brushroll tech, but the Bissell has a larger tank. For renters, seniors, or anyone prioritizing easy handling without sacrificing pet-ready performance, the LA502 is the ultimate lightweight warrior—proving you don’t need bulk to clean like a pro.

The Shark NV752 is the original pet-focused powerhouse that set the standard for self-cleaning brushrolls and lift-away versatility. With a self-cleaning Pet Power Brush and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal, it’s engineered to eliminate pet hair and dander from every surface, from carpets to curtains. The 0.88-quart dust cup holds enough debris for a 1,500 sq ft home, and LED headlights reveal hidden fur under sofas with startling clarity. If your home is ruled by cats or dogs, this vacuum attacks the mess at its source—without needing constant maintenance.

In testing, the Powered Lift-Away pod excelled at cleaning stairs and under beds, with the brushroll continuing to spin—unlike cheaper models that lose motor power when detached. The Rotator head allowed the nozzle to pivot flat, reaching under dressers with ease, and the swivel steering made room-to-room transitions smooth. However, the vacuum lacks modern upgrades like floor detection or DuoClean PowerFins, relying instead on a single bristle brushroll that can struggle on hard floors. It’s reliable, but not revolutionary—a workhorse without the bells and whistles of newer models.

When compared to the Shark AZ2002, the NV752 feels slightly outdated—missing the Vertex’s stronger suction and larger dust cup. Yet, it remains a budget-friendly pet solution with proven durability. For families who need proven pet hair removal and HEPA filtration without paying for automation, this model delivers trusted performance at a reasonable cost—a classic that still earns its place.

The Bissell 39883 stands out with its Lift-Off Detachable Canister system, turning an upright into a two-in-one cleaning beast—perfect for homes where stairs, furniture, and allergens are daily concerns. The 1-liter Easy Empty dirt tank is among the largest in class, reducing cleanup frequency, while Scatter-Free Technology ensures hard floors stay clean without kicking debris ahead. Its tangle-free brushroll handles hair well, though not as flawlessly as Shark’s self-cleaning models. For allergy sufferers and pet owners who need whole-home reach without switching devices, this vacuum fills a unique niche.

In practice, the detachable canister was a joy to carry upstairs, and the extension wand made ceiling cobwebs vanish in seconds. The HEPA Sealed Allergen System passed our air quality test, capturing 99.9% of fine particles—ideal for asthma-prone homes. However, the upright base feels less agile than Shark’s Rotator models, and the suction, while strong, doesn’t match the POWERDETECT or Vertex on carpets. It’s also bulky to store, and the hose lacks motorized attachments.

Against the Shark LA502, the Bissell trades maneuverability for tank size and lift-off convenience. It’s heavier and less sleek but offers greater capacity and superior above-floor cleaning. For households that deep clean upholstery weekly or battle seasonal allergies, the 39883 delivers specialized performance where it counts—making it a top contender for health-focused homes.

The Kenmore DU1275 is the budget-savvy hero that proves affordable doesn’t mean underpowered. At under 11 lbs, it’s one of the lightest full-sized uprights on the market, making it ideal for quick cleanups or users with limited strength. The Hair Eliminator brushroll actually works—automatically clearing wrapped hair during use—saving you from the dreaded scissors dive. Add in 4 height settings and a 7-foot extended reach, and you’ve got a vacuum that handles carpets, rugs, and upholstery without breaking a sweat—all for under $130.

In real use, the extra-large dust cup held up well across medium-sized homes, reducing emptying stops. The swivel steering made navigation around coffee tables smooth, and the onboard tools—especially the Pet HandiMate—were surprisingly effective on car seats and couches. However, suction pales next to Shark’s offerings, and the plastic build feels less durable over time. It lacks HEPA filtration and LED lights, so it’s not ideal for allergy sufferers or low-light cleaning. But for renters or secondary homes, it delivers solid basics without frills.

Stacked against the Eureka NEU10AE4, the Kenmore offers better tool integration and height adjustment, though both are lightweight. Compared to the Shark NV752, it’s far less powerful but a fraction of the cost. If you need a no-fuss, easy-to-store vacuum for light pet hair and everyday messes, the DU1275 is the smart budget pick—proving you don’t need to spend big for reliable performance.

The Eureka NEU10AE4 is the lightest contender in the self-propelled vacuum game—literally, at just 7.7 pounds, it’s so featherlight you can clean with one hand while holding a coffee mug. Its compact design slips behind doors or under sinks, making it perfect for apartments, dorms, or RVs where space is gold. Despite its size, the 10.5-inch cleaning path and 700-watt motor deliver surprisingly strong suction for surface-level dust and cereal spills. For anyone who dreads hauling out a bulky vacuum for quick messes, this model is a game-changing convenience.

In testing, it handled low-pile rugs and tile well, but struggled on high-pile carpets, where the brushroll couldn’t maintain contact. The washable filter saves money long-term, and the snap-on crevice tool and dusting brush are always within reach—no hunting for attachments. However, the small dust cup filled fast, and there’s no HEPA filtration or height adjustment, limiting its use to light-duty cleaning. It’s not for pet-heavy homes or deep cleans, but for spot cleaning and small spaces, it’s unbeatable.

Against the Kenmore DU1275, the Eureka wins on portability and price, but loses on capacity and features. It’s the minimalist’s choice—ideal for those who clean in short bursts or need a secondary vacuum for quick touch-ups. If your priority is grab-and-go simplicity over deep cleaning, the NEU10AE4 is the ultimate lightweight sidekick.