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What’s the difference between the types of vacuums?

Although upright vacuum cleaners have been the most popular option in the U.S. for several years, canister and stick vacuums have become more appealing to many buyers. Depending on your floor type and cleaning needs, you may benefit from switching to another kind of vacuum.

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Do you need a canister, an upright or a stick vacuum?

Everyone has different needs when it comes to cleaning their home. Some people simply sweep or mop their hardwood floors, while others have to vacuum copious amounts of carpet. If you’re in the latter group, you know how important a good vacuum can be. And when it’s time to buy a new vacuum cleaner, you’ll have to decide between three main categories: upright, canister or stick vacuum.

Even when you’re ready to make a choice, you’ll likely still have plenty of other questions. You may wonder what the best cordless stick vacuum is. Or you might contemplate if you should get a Dyson upright vacuum or a Shark upright vacuum. Perhaps you’re curious if the Kenmore canister vacuum is as good as people say it is.

Whether it’s your first vacuum or your fourth, there are a lot of things to consider when getting a new vacuum. From suction options to accessories to cord length, it can be difficult to decide which is best for you. But fear not: here’s everything you need to know about the various vacuums out there and how to decipher the right one for your needs.

Upright vacuums

Upright vacuums are ideal if you need to clean large areas of carpet or hard floor quickly and easily. They generally have a one-piece design with large cleaning heads and a few attachments for tight corners. The best upright vacuums work well for cleaning large areas, like living rooms or bedrooms. They usually have cords and offer reasonably powerful suction. 

These upright vacuum cleaners have been the most popular choice for several years, and for good reasons. They are effective, cover plenty of ground, usually have an easy-to-empty dirt container and come with attachment options. Unless you’re reaching around tight corners or deep underneath furniture, an upright vacuum will be a good choice. And even then, the attachments allow for some options in cleaning small spaces.

You can find affordable, upright vacuums starting at around $50-$100. These will have less power and fewer attachments. High-end models with several attachments and plenty of suction power can cost up to (and more than) $500.

What you’ll love about upright vacuums

What you should consider about upright vacuums

Top upright vacuums

Dyson Ball Animal 2

Dyson is a heavy-hitter brand in the vacuum market. This mighty upright vacuum can tackle hair, dirt, dust and more. It’s ideal if you regularly clean up after kids, pets and other common household messes. And its unique design makes it easy to push around the house.

Available at Amazon

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

Shark is a well-known brand in the cleaning industry, specifically for their amazing vacuum cleaners. This upright vacuum is surprisingly maneuverable, and it incorporates a lift-away canister to tackle stairs and above-floor cleaning efficiently. And if you have allergies, this comes with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter to keep pollen and dust at bay.

Available at Amazon

Bissell CleanView Upright Vacuum 

If you’re looking for an affordable upright vacuum with a quality brush roll for cleaning carpets and impressive multi-cyclonic suction, this is a great option. It also has a crevice tool and a dirt tank that empties at the push of a button.

Available at Amazon

Canister vacuums

Canister vacuums are great for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. They offer some of the best suction power, too. The motor and dirtbag stay in a separate container, which attaches to the suction head with a flexible hose. 

A canister vacuum is ideal for those who may not be able to lift a heavy upright vacuum. And since they can clean small areas and hard-to-reach spaces, they’re a good solution for those with lofty ceilings or deep furniture.

Canister vacuum cleaners can cost anywhere from $50-$600, depending on the brand, suction power and attachment options. Basic options will likely have less suction power than more expensive models.

What you’ll love about canister vacuums

What you should consider about canister vacuums

Top canister vacuums

Dyson Cinetic Big Ball Animal Canister Vacuum Cleaner 

Dyson offers some of the best canister vacuums on the market. This model comes with the impressive suction power that you expect from the brand. An extra bonus is you don’t have to wash or replace the filter, and it doesn’t require any bags. This cuts down on additional costs and makes it even easier to use than other models.

Available at Amazon

Miele Complete C3 

Another high-end canister vacuum that might be pricey but is well worth it, thanks to its durability and top-notch suction. The HEPA filter catches pollen and dust, making it ideal for those who suffer from allergies, too. If you have pets, this may be a good option.

Available at Amazon

Bissell Zing Canister Vacuum

Although it can’t beat high-end offerings’ suction power, this is an excellent choice for anyone on a tight budget. And if you need to clean your couch, this one does a fantastic job cleaning upholstered furniture.

Available at Amazon

Stick vacuums

Stick vacuums are lightweight and easy to use, and there are plenty of convenient cordless models available. The motors and dust containers are right at the top of the unit near the handle. The cleaning head stays at the end of a solid, stick-like suction tube. Some of the best cordless stick vacuums are more expensive than upright or canister vacuums of comparable quality. 

A stick vacuum is a natural choice for those who need to clean in areas without a power outlet. Whether it’s outside or indoors, a stick vacuum can clean places that don’t have easy access to power. You also won’t have to deal with cords trailing behind you.

Depending on the brand, power and additional accessories, stick vacuums cost anywhere from $100-$800. More expensive brands will likely offer longer run times and more suction power.

What you’ll love about stick vacuums

What you should consider about stick vacuums

Top stick vacuums

Samsung Jet 75 Complete Cordless Stick Vacuum

This impressive cordless stick vacuum rivals the suction power of corded models. It has a 60-minute runtime and features a 180-degree swivel head to help you clean hard-to-reach spots. If you’re interested in replacing an upright vacuum with a new model, this may be a good option.

Available at Amazon

Miele Triflex HX1 

Since this vacuum is one of Miele’s most powerful corded models, you’ll get maximum suction power with the convenience of a cordless stick vacuum. It comes with a crevice nozzle for tight spots and a wall mount, so it stays out of the way when you’re done cleaning.

Available at Amazon

Shark Pet Plus Cordless Stick Vacuum

Get a deeper clean with this lightweight stick vacuum, which is easy to use and has a flexible reach to help you clean under furniture — it even converts to a hand vac. Its powerful suction works well on pet hair, and it offers 40 minutes of runtime per charge.

Available at Amazon

Should you get an upright, a canister, or a stick vacuum?

If you’re looking for a definitive answer to whether you should get a stick, upright or canister vacuum, it ultimately depends on the area you plan on cleaning. All designs have helpful features, as well as some areas where they fall short. 

Take time to consider your floor type, how much carpet needs cleaning, how light or heavy you need the vacuum to be and any necessary attachments. This will help you narrow down what type of vacuum cleaner you should buy depending on your needs and preferences. 

If you love the convenience of a cordless vacuum, you should opt for a cordless stick vacuum. Canister vacuums are arguably the best option for getting into nooks and crannies. Upright vacuum cleaners are easy to use and are often the quickest option when vacuuming large rooms without too many obstacles to maneuver around. Either way, check reviews of products and check the company website for information about performance.

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Lauren Corona writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.

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