Best Upright and Canister Vacuum Cleaners of 2025: Ultimate Test of Power, Performance, and Value

 Finding the best vacuum for your home can be overwhelming, with so many models to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a dirt-busting upright or a compact canister model, we’ve tested multiple machines to bring you the best vacuum cleaners of 2025. Each vacuum was evaluated for suction power, ease of use, battery life (for cordless models), maneuverability, and overall value.


How We Tested

Each vacuum was tested on various surfaces, including tile, carpet, and hardwood floors. We also assessed their performance against pet hair, fine dust, and larger debris. Additional factors like noise levels, ease of emptying, and maintenance were considered. After extensive testing, we’ve found the best vacuum in every category.


Best Overall: Shark Upright Vacuum NV360

Why We Chose It

The Shark Upright Vacuum NV360 stands out as the best overall due to its superior blend of power, performance, and price. Our tests showed that it excels in deep carpet cleaning and effortlessly picks up pet hair. The lift-away feature makes it ideal for cleaning stairs and furniture, and its anti-allergen seal helps contain dust and allergens.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 9.5/10 — Easily picked up fine dust, pet hair, and large debris.

  • Maneuverability: 9/10 — Swivel steering allows for easy navigation in tight spaces.

  • Maintenance: 8.5/10 — Easy-to-empty dustbin; occasional filter cleaning required.

  • Noise Level: 7.5/10 — Not the loudest, but not whisper-quiet either.

  • Overall Score: 9/10

Takeaway: A bit heavier than other upright models.


Cordless and Compact Vacuum Cleaners

Best for Small Apartments: Levoit LVAC-200

A cordless, lightweight vacuum that delivers strong suction for everyday cleaning.

Test Results:
  • Battery Life: 45 minutes on a full charge.

  • Suction Power: 8/10 — Struggles slightly with deep carpets.

  • Noise Level: 6.5/10 — Louder than some cordless vacuums.

  • Overall Score: 8/10

Con: Small dustbin needs frequent emptying.


Best for Hard Floors: Shark VACMOP Pro VM252

A vacuum-mop combo designed for homes with hardwood or tile flooring.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 7.5/10 — Excellent for dust and hair, but struggles with large debris.

  • Mop Performance: 8.5/10 — Leaves floors streak-free.

  • Battery Life: 30 minutes.

  • Overall Score: 7.8/10

Con: Requires disposable mop pads.


Best for Pet Owners: Bissell Cleanview XR 3797V

Designed for pet-friendly homes, this vacuum comes with specialized pet hair tools and powerful suction.

Test Results:
  • Pet Hair Pickup: 9.5/10 — Easily removes pet hair from carpets and upholstery.

  • Suction Power: 9/10 — Excellent performance across surfaces.

  • Overall Score: 8.8/10

Con: Noisy at full power.


Best Upright Vacuum Cleaners

Strongest Suction: Smoture 45KPA

A vacuum boasting 45,000 Pa of suction power, making it one of the strongest models available.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 10/10 — No embedded dirt stands a chance.

  • Noise Level: 6/10 — Loud but highly effective.

  • Overall Score: 8.5/10

Con: Heavy and bulky.


Best for Large Homes: Bissell CleanView Swivel Vacuum (2024 Model)

Designed for bigger spaces, this vacuum features advanced swivel steering for superior maneuverability.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 8.5/10 — Works well on all surfaces.

  • Maneuverability: 9.5/10 — Excellent steering and control.

  • Overall Score: 8.7/10

Con: Requires regular filter cleaning.


Best Lightweight Upright: Shark Rocket Ultra-Light HV301

A lightweight full-sized upright vacuum that’s easy to carry and store.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 8.5/10 — Performs well on carpet and hard floors.

  • Weight: 7 lbs — Extremely portable.

  • Overall Score: 8.6/10

Con: Smaller dustbin compared to traditional uprights.


Best Stick Vacuum for Small Spaces: Eureka NES215A Blaze

A compact and agile stick vacuum, ideal for quick cleanups.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 7/10 — Best for hard floors and low-pile carpets.

  • Weight: Extremely lightweight.

  • Overall Score: 7.5/10

Con: Not ideal for thick carpets.


Best for Deep Cleaning: Eureka Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner NEU10AE4

A sturdy upright vacuum with a large dustbin for heavy-duty cleaning.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 9/10 — Performs exceptionally well on thick carpets.

  • Dustbin Size: Large — Less frequent emptying needed.

  • Overall Score: 8.5/10

Con: Bulky design takes up more storage space.


Best for Multi-Surface Cleaning: Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner NEU280

A versatile vacuum with adjustable height settings for different surfaces.

Test Results:
  • Suction Power: 8.5/10 — Handles both carpets and hardwood floors effectively.

  • Weight: Lighter than most uprights.

  • Overall Score: 8.4/10

Con: Power cord could be longer.


Conclusion: Which Vacuum is Right for You?

If you’re searching for the best vacuum cleaner of 2025, the Shark Upright Vacuum NV360 remains our top recommendation for its superior performance on all surfaces. For a cordless option, the Levoit LVAC-200 is an excellent choice, while the Bissell Cleanview XR 3797V is a great pick for pet owners.

Consider your specific needs, space, and budget to find the perfect vacuum for your home. Whichever one you choose, these best vacuum cleaners of 2025 will keep your floors spotless all year long!