8 Best Upright Vacuums for Carpet 2025

The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel upright vacuum bursts out of the gate with swivel steering that feels almost telepathic in tight corners. Its triple action brush roll doesn’t just spin—it aggressively agitates carpet fibers to release deeply embedded pet hair and dirt, a godsend for homes battling daily shedding. Combined with edge-to-edge cleaning, this vacuum eliminates the need for follow-up passes along baseboards, solving a common frustration for pet owners who dread missed spots.

In real-world testing, the 0.9-quart dirt tank handled a full week’s worth of debris across medium-pile carpets and hardwood without overflow, though fine dust occasionally triggered the airflow indicator, signaling a filter clean was needed. The scatter-free technology truly shines on hardwood—spilled kibble or litter stays contained instead of being blasted across the room. However, the motor lacks the raw power to deeply lift matted-in hair from high-traffic zones, and the hose reach is frustratingly short for stairs or upholstery.

Compared to the Shark NV360, the CleanView trades allergen-sealing tech and lift-away versatility for simpler, more intuitive pet-focused cleaning. It’s ideal for pet households that prioritize maneuverability and edge cleaning over whole-home allergen control. While it doesn’t match premium filtration or detachable pods, it delivers solid carpet performance at a mid-tier price with a more straightforward design.

The Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is a game-changer for allergy sufferers, thanks to its anti-allergen complete seal technology paired with a true HEPA filter that captures 99.99% of dust and pollen. Its lift-away pod transforms it from an upright beast into a portable canister-style cleaner, making it effortless to vacuum under sofas or up stairs—a rare flexibility in this class. Add swivel steering and brushroll shutoff, and you’ve got a vacuum that transitions seamlessly from plush carpet to delicate tile without scattering debris.

During extended cleaning sessions, the 0.9-quart dust cup proved spacious enough to handle two full rooms before needing emptying, and the multi-surface suction remained consistent thanks to the powerful 1200-watt motor. On thick rugs, the brush roll dug deep, pulling out pet hair and dust mites alike, while the instant floor switch preserved hardwood finishes. That said, the pod detaches with a loud click that feels less premium than expected, and the filters demand a full 24-hour dry time after rinsing—impractical for quick cleanups.

Against the Bissell 2252, the NV360 wins on allergen control and versatility, but sacrifices some pet-hair-specific tools. It’s the clear choice for multi-surface homes with allergy concerns, offering hospital-grade filtration in a practical upright form. Though heavier than budget models, its performance justifies the trade-off for health-conscious households.

The Eureka Airspeed NEU10AE4 redefines agility with a feathery 7.7-pound frame that feels like it’s floating across rooms—perfect for renters or anyone with limited strength. Don’t let its ultra-lightweight design fool you: the 700-watt motor delivers surprisingly robust suction for a budget vacuum, especially on low-pile carpets and hard floors. The 10.5-inch cleaning path zips through small apartments quickly, and the snap-on crevice tool and dusting brush are always within reach, eliminating the hassle of digging for attachments.

In real use, it tackled cereal spills and tracked-in dust with commendable efficiency, though it struggled with embedded pet hair on high-pile rugs due to a fixed-height brush roll. The compact footprint allows storage in closets or under sinks, a major win for space-constrained homes. However, the lack of height adjustment means it bounces over thicker carpets, reducing contact and cleaning depth. It’s best suited for light-duty, frequent cleanups rather than deep weekly sessions.

When compared to the Eureka PowerSpeed models, this vacuum trades power and dust capacity for unmatched portability. It’s the go-to for dorms, studios, or second-floor cleaning, where easy carrying and storage trump heavy-duty performance. While not built for pet-heavy homes, it delivers impressive agility and value for minimalists.

The Bissell 3437F CleanView Compact Turbo is a masterclass in space-saving engineering, packing full-size suction into a chassis small enough to stash behind a bathroom door. Its quick-release wand is a revelation—within seconds, you’re cleaning ceiling cobwebs or car interiors without lugging the whole unit. The scatter-free technology works wonders on hardwood, containing messes that lesser compacts send flying, making it ideal for quick kitchen cleanups.

Despite its 10-pound frame, it generates suction strong enough to handle light carpet debris and daily tracked-in dirt. The motor maintains consistent power across surfaces, though extended use on deep-pile rugs causes slight overheating after 15 minutes. The compact size is perfect for apartments, but the smaller dirt tank demands more frequent emptying during whole-home sessions. It’s not designed for pet hair marathons, but for targeted, fast cleanups, it’s impressively agile.

Next to the Eureka Airspeed, the 3437F offers better above-floor reach and stronger suction in a similar footprint. It’s the smarter pick for urban dwellers who need versatility from a mini vacuum, trading raw power for thoughtful design. For those who value quick wand access and mess containment, it strikes a perfect balance between size and function.

The Shark ZU503AMZ Navigator Lift-Away is a pet owner’s dream, anchored by a self-cleaning brushroll that actually lives up to the hype—no more scissors needed to de-tangle fur after every use. Its pet crevice tool dives deep into couch seams and car seats, extracting clumps of hair that other vacuums leave behind. Backed by anti-allergen sealed tech and HEPA filtration, it doesn’t just remove pet dander—it traps it, making it a powerhouse for homes with shedding beasts and sensitive noses.

In real testing, the lift-away pod made cleaning stairs and under beds effortless, while swivel steering allowed precise navigation around coffee tables and pet crates. The 1200-watt motor maintained strong suction across shag rugs and tile, though the dust cup filled quickly during deep cleans on long-haired dogs. The upholstery tool handled curtains and cushions with care, but the hose could be longer for ceiling fans.

Against the Bissell 2252, this model wins with superior pet tools and allergen control, though it’s heavier and pricier. It’s ideal for multi-pet homes needing deep, hygienic cleaning, offering best-in-class hair pickup and health-focused filtration. While not the lightest, its all-around pet performance outshines most rivals.

The Eureka PowerSpeed Pet Turbo punches way above its price tag with a 2.6L extra-large dust cup that laughs at weekly cleanups, reducing emptying frequency like a vacuum twice its cost. Its 5-height adjustment lets you fine-tune contact across surfaces—from plush berber to bare wood—ensuring maximum suction without scattering. The included pet turbo tool is a standout, spinning aggressively to pull fur from car seats and pet beds with minimal passes.

In action, the 10-pound body felt balanced and easy to push, even up stairs. The foam filter captured fine dust well, though it required more frequent rinsing than higher-end models. On thick carpets, it occasionally bogged down with heavy hair loads, and the roller brush warning is legit—neglecting biweekly cleaning risks belt damage. Still, for sporadic deep cleans, it delivers exceptional reach and capacity.

Against the Bissell 3437F, it trades compactness for greater power and storage, making it better for families than dorms. It’s the top budget pick for pet owners who want strong suction and onboard tools without premium pricing. While build quality feels economical, its practical features and large bin make it a steal.

The Eureka NEU181A PowerSpeed hits the sweet spot between affordability and performance, delivering 960-watt consistent suction that handles both fine dust and pet hair across hardwood, tile, and carpet. Its 5-height brush roll adjustment is buttery smooth, letting you dial in the perfect setting for area rugs without bouncing or digging. The flip-to-empty 2.6L dust cup is a mess-free joy—no touching debris, a rare win at this price.

In real-world use, it excelled at daily maintenance cleaning, effortlessly pulling tracked-in dirt from entryways and fur from living room rugs. The onboard pet turbo brush made quick work of sofa cushions, though the hose reach limited overhead cleaning. It’s not as agile as ultra-lights, but the 10-pound weight keeps it manageable for most users. Overheating was minimal, even during 20-minute sessions.

Compared to the B09YM1ZPR2, it offers nearly identical power and capacity with a slightly cleaner design. It’s the ideal mid-range pick for pet households that want reliable, no-fuss cleaning without overspending. While lacking HEPA, it delivers exceptional value for consistent, multi-surface performance.

The Shark ZU102 Rotator Pet is the undisputed king of pet hair removal, armed with PowerFins HairPro technology that actively grabs and gulps down long, short, and stubborn pet hair like a Dyson at twice the price. Its 3XL dust cup—a cavernous 2.9 liters—allows whole-house cleanups without mid-session dumps, a blessing for large homes with multiple pets. The extendable 12-foot hose reaches attic corners and car interiors with ease, while self-cleaning brushroll ensures no hair wrap headaches.

In testing, the rotator steering outmaneuvered every other upright, pivoting on a dime around chair legs and tight hallways. The odor neutralizer cartridge actually reduced that stale “wet dog” smell from the dust cup—a small but meaningful touch. Suction remained fierce across all surfaces, though the unit’s weight makes upstairs cleaning tiring. The 5-year warranty signals long-term confidence rare at this tier.

Stacked against the ZU503AMZ, it trades portability for massive capacity and superior reach, making it better for large homes. It’s the best overall upright for pet owners, combining elite hair pickup, odor control, and durability. While it’s the most expensive, its performance and features justify the investment for serious pet households.