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 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.

The Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum is a versatile cleaning tool with several notable strengths. Boasting powerful suction and a lightweight design, it can effectively clean both carpets and bare floors. The lift-away functionality further enhances its versatility, allowing easy cleaning of stairs and furniture.

The vacuum is equipped with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter, making it an excellent choice for those with allergies as it traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum. The swivel steering feature ensures easy maneuverability around tight spaces and furniture, while the brushroll shutoff allows users to transition smoothly between different floor types.