10 Best Upright Vacuums 2026 in the United States

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.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, model AZ3002, is a robust choice for those needing powerful suction and effective hair pickup. Its DuoClean PowerFins and HairPro technology ensure thorough cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. The vacuum stands out with its self-cleaning brushroll, which prevents hair wrap, making it ideal for homes with pets. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and HEPA filter work together to trap 99.9% of dust and allergens, adding a health benefit for allergy sufferers. Additionally, the Odor Neutralizer Technology helps keep your home smelling fresh, which is a unique feature not often found in vacuums.

The vacuum's powered lift-away feature allows for versatile cleaning, reaching under furniture and above floors with ease. The LED headlights are a helpful addition, illuminating hidden debris and pet hair, ensuring you don't miss a spot. It comes with a variety of useful attachments including an upholstery tool and a crevice tool, enhancing its cleaning capabilities.

However, at 16.71 pounds, it is on the heavier side, which might be cumbersome for some users. The vacuum is bagless, featuring an easy-empty dust cup, though some may prefer bagged models for easier disposal of debris. The corded design means it isn't as portable as cordless options, but it eliminates concerns about battery life. Noise level isn't specified, but high suction power typically means it's not the quietest vacuum. Its 5-year limited warranty is reassuring. This vacuum is well-suited for homes with pets and those needing robust cleaning performance on multiple surfaces.

The Dyson Ball Animal 2 Total Clean Upright Vacuum is a strong contender in the upright vacuum category, particularly well-suited for pet owners and larger homes. Its standout feature is its impressive suction power, touted as the strongest of any vacuum, making it highly effective at lifting dirt and allergens from various surfaces. The self-adjusting cleaner head enhances its usability across carpets and hard floors, ensuring optimal performance regardless of the flooring type.

One of the significant advantages is the vacuum's advanced filtration system, which utilizes HEPA filters to trap allergens inside, promoting a healthier home environment. This is especially beneficial for those with allergies or asthma. Additionally, the inclusion of eight versatile attachments, such as the tangle-free turbine tool and carbon fiber dusting brush, makes it adaptable for various cleaning tasks, from stairs to upholstery.

If you need a powerful vacuum for a pet-friendly home with a variety of cleaning needs, the Dyson Ball Animal 2 Total Clean is a great choice. Those who prefer lightweight and cordless options may want to consider other models.