10 Best Upright Vacuums 2025 in the United States

The Shark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle is a lightweight (7.5 lbs) cordless stick vacuum designed for versatility on carpets, hard floors, and pet hair. Its 2-speed brushroll lets you switch between optimized cleaning modes for different floor types, enhancing pet hair pickup and cleaning efficiency.

Equipped with a 10.8V battery and a runtime of about 17 minutes per charge, it is ideal for quick to moderate cleaning sessions rather than heavy-duty or whole-house use. The XL dust cup (0.64 quarts) allows for longer cleaning without frequent emptying, and the bagless design eliminates ongoing costs for bags. Washable foam filters offer convenience but may require regular maintenance to sustain performance. The vacuum operates at a noise level of 80 dB, which is typical but may be noticeable in quiet environments.

Its cordless design and included precision charger make storage and use straightforward. The suction power (125 watts) is suitable for everyday tasks but less strong compared to corded or more powerful models. This vacuum is well-suited for those needing a portable, easy-to-handle device for spot cleaning or smaller spaces, especially in homes with pets. For those requiring longer cleaning times, deeper suction, or extensive attachments, higher-powered or corded options may be more appropriate.

The Shark NV501 Rotator Professional Lift-Away Upright Vacuum offers several appealing features for household cleaning. It boasts strong suction power, making it effective for both carpets and hard floors. The HEPA filter, combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, ensures that dust and allergens are trapped inside the vacuum, which is beneficial for allergy sufferers. Its lift-away functionality is a standout feature, allowing it to convert into a handheld vacuum for cleaning stairs, furniture, and other above-floor areas.

The advanced swivel steering and LED headlights make it easy to navigate around furniture and spot hidden debris. The included attachments, such as the wide upholstery tool, dusting brush, and crevice tool, enhance its versatility for different cleaning tasks. However, at 15.5 pounds, it might be considered heavy by some users, especially for extended cleaning sessions. The noise level of 80 dB is relatively loud, which might be a concern for those seeking a quieter vacuuming experience.

Additionally, it is a corded model with an 8.4-feet hose length, which may limit mobility compared to cordless alternatives. Assembly is required, which might be an inconvenience for some users. Despite these drawbacks, the Shark NV501 remains a solid choice for those looking for a versatile and powerful upright vacuum with effective filtration and multiple cleaning tools.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away (model NV356E), is a versatile and powerful vacuum designed to meet various cleaning needs, particularly for pet owners. Its lift-away functionality allows you to detach the pod for easy cleaning of above-floor areas like stairs and furniture. The vacuum features a robust HEPA filtration system combined with an anti-allergen complete seal, trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is excellent for allergy sufferers.

The vacuum is slightly on the heavier side at 13.7 pounds, but it compensates with swivel steering for easy maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces. The brushroll shutoff feature allows you to switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning effortlessly. The extra-large dust cup (0.87 liters) means fewer trips to the trash can during extended cleaning sessions. It also comes with useful attachments like a pet power brush, dusting brush, and an 8-inch crevice tool, making it highly versatile.

However, it is not cordless, which could limit mobility, and its noise level at 80 dB may be considered loud by some users. Despite these drawbacks, its powerful suction, excellent filtration, and multiple attachments make it a top choice for households with pets and varied flooring types.