I’m Riley Knox — and along with my friends Morgan Elwood and Taylor Brynn, we spent the past few weeks deep in the world of vacuums (yes, we got weirdly into it). Each of us took a different type home and put it to the test: apartments, pet hair, stairs, hardwood, deep carpets — the works. We vacuumed everything from dusty baseboards to crushed crackers under couches and compared notes (and way too much lint). If you’re in the market for a vacuum, here’s everything we learned — and what to look for based on your home, budget, and lifestyle.
Ask Yourself These Questions Before Buying
Before choosing a vacuum, it’s smart to think about how you’ll actually use it:
- What type of flooring do I have?
Carpet? Hardwood? Tile? A mix? - Do I have pets?
You’ll want strong suction and anti-tangle tech. - Do I have allergies or asthma?
HEPA filters and sealed systems matter a lot. - How big is my home?
Smaller spaces do better with cordless or compact vacuums. - Do I have stairs?
Lightweight or lift-away vacuums are ideal. - How often do I vacuum?
If it’s daily, you’ll appreciate cordless or robot options.
Vacuum Types at a Glance
Comparison Table: Types of Vacuums
| Type | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Upright | Carpeted homes | Powerful suction, wide cleaning path | Bulky and often heavy |
| Canister | Mixed flooring, under furniture | Great reach and maneuverability | Takes more storage space |
| Stick / Cordless | Apartments, daily messes | Lightweight, portable | Battery life limits deep cleaning |
| Robot | Maintenance cleaning | Hands-free, smart mapping | Misses corners, not deep-cleaning |
| Handheld | Cars, upholstery, stairs | Compact, easy to grab for quick jobs | Not for full-home cleaning |
| Wet/Dry (Shop Vac) | Garages, big messes | Handles solids and liquids | Too bulky for indoor daily use |
Comparison Table: Our Top Picks
| Category | Top Pick(s) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Best All-Around | Shark Stratos, Miele C3, Dyson V15 | Most homes with mixed flooring |
| Best for Pet Owners | Bissell Pet Hair Eraser, Shark Vertex, Dyson Ball Animal 3 | Heavy shedders and pet parents |
| Best for Small Spaces | Dyson V8/V12, Tineco S15, Eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S1 Pro | Apartments, studios, minimal storage |
| Best Budget Picks | Eureka PowerSpeed, Hoover WindTunnel, Bissell CleanView XR Pet 3797V | Under $200, basic but reliable |
Our Hands-On Reviews
Best All-Around Vacuums
Shark Stratos Upright or Cordless
Tested by: Morgan
Best for: Households that need versatile cleaning on both carpets and hard floors, and anyone dealing with long hair or pet hair
Why We Like It:
The Shark Stratos is one of those vacuums that just works. Morgan tested both the upright and the cordless versions and found that the suction was impressive for everything from flour on tile to pet hair on shag rugs. The anti-hair wrap brush roll actually works, and the odor-neutralizing cartridge left her space smelling fresher than expected.
Pros:
- Excellent suction for everyday and deep cleaning
- Anti-hair wrap roller is great for pet or long human hair
- Odor cartridge helps with musty smells
- Cordless version is very maneuverable
Cons:
- Upright version is a bit bulky
- Cordless version has limited runtime for whole-house cleans
Miele C3 Canister
Tested by: Riley
Best for: Allergy sufferers, pet owners, and anyone who wants a quiet, ultra-durable vacuum with top-tier filtration
Why We Like It:
The Miele C3 has that German-engineered feel—solid, sleek, and built to last. Riley tested this in a home with a cat and seasonal allergies, and the difference in air quality was noticeable. The sealed HEPA system captured dust and dander without sending it back into the room. It’s incredibly quiet, easy to maneuver, and the adjustable suction worked great on everything from high-pile rugs to delicate curtains.
Pros:
- HEPA filtration is perfect for allergy-prone homes
- Durable construction and quiet motor
- Excellent suction control for different surfaces
- Glides smoothly under furniture
Cons:
- Expensive upfront
- Requires proprietary bags and filters
Dyson V15 Detect
Tested by: Taylor
Best for: High-tech homes, daily cleaning, and anyone obsessed with catching every speck of dust
Why We Like It:
The Dyson V15 feels like a vacuum from the future. Taylor loved how the laser light highlighted dust you couldn’t see with the naked eye—simultaneously satisfying and alarming. The vacuum automatically adjusted power based on floor type and debris level. It’s lightweight, smart, and powerful enough to replace a full-size upright for many households.
Pros:
- Laser reveals hidden dust and debris
- Excellent battery life and power for a cordless vacuum
- Digital readout shows cleaning stats and battery
- Self-adjusting suction for different surfaces
Cons:
- Expensive
- Trigger must be held continuously during use
Best Vacuums for Pet Owners
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus
Tested by: Riley
Best for: Multi-pet households on a budget
Why We Like It:
Riley tested this one with two cats and a dog, and it handled furniture fur, floor messes, and corner tumbleweeds without flinching. The tangle-free brush roll kept things smooth, and the Febreze filter added a fresh scent post-cleaning. It’s heavier and noisier than premium models but does an impressive job at a much friendlier price point.
Pros:
- Designed specifically for pet hair
- Built-in Febreze filter adds freshness
- Great value for the price
- Comes with pet upholstery tools
Cons:
- A bit heavy to carry upstairs
- Not as quiet or sleek as high-end models
Shark Vertex Powered Lift-Away
Tested by: Taylor
Best for: Homes with pets and stairs or lots of under-furniture areas
Why We Like It:
The Lift-Away design is brilliant. Taylor appreciated the flexibility—she could detach the pod to vacuum stairs, shelves, or under beds without dragging the full body around. It picks up pet hair easily and features Shark’s signature anti-hair wrap tech.
Pros:
- Lift-away feature increases flexibility
- Powerful suction for both carpets and hard floors
- Anti-hair wrap brush roll
- Comes with multiple pet tools
Cons:
- A bit heavy compared to cordless models
- Not compact for small apartments
Dyson Ball Animal 3
Tested by: Morgan
Best for: Large homes with multiple pets and deep carpets
Why We Like It:
This vacuum is a beast in the best way. Morgan tested it during her golden retriever’s shedding season and said it cleaned like a commercial-grade vacuum. The Ball design helps with maneuverability, and the turbo brush demolished fur embedded in carpets and dog beds.
Pros:
- Outstanding suction power
- Ideal for deep-cleaning pet messes
- Large bin and hygienic emptying
- Includes tangle-free turbine tool
Cons:
- Heavy and not ideal for multi-level homes
- Louder than others on this list
Best for Apartments and Small Homes
Dyson V8 or V12
Tested by: Taylor
Best for: Compact homes, quick cleans, and minimalist setups
Why We Like It:
Taylor tried both the V8 and the V12 in her small two-bedroom apartment. The V8 is simple, effective, and affordable (for Dyson), while the V12 upgrades the suction and battery. Both are easy to store, charge, and use daily—no cords, no fuss.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Strong enough for daily messes
- V12 offers better battery and suction than V8
- Wall-mounted dock keeps things tidy
Cons:
- Small bin fills up quickly
- Not ideal for full-home deep cleans
Tineco Pure One S15
Tested by: Morgan
Best for: Tech-savvy users in open-floor-plan homes or condos
Why We Like It:
The S15 was the sleeper hit of our tests. It has a digital screen that shows how much dust is being sucked up in real time and automatically adjusts suction levels. Morgan said it was lighter and quieter than her Dyson, with great battery performance.
Pros:
- Smart suction adjustment based on dust levels
- LED screen gives battery and dirt readout
- Lightweight and quiet
- Strong performance for its price
Cons:
- Fewer accessories than Dyson
- Still a bit pricey compared to basic cordless models
Eufy Robot Vacuum Omni S1 Pro
Tested by: Riley
Best for: Busy people who want an ultra-smart, all-in-one vacuum and mop solution with minimal maintenance
Why We Like It:
Riley swapped in the new S1 Pro and was genuinely impressed. It’s not just a robot vacuum — it’s a fully autonomous cleaning system. The Omni S1 Pro vacuums and mops with dual rotating pads, then self-empties, self-washes, and even dries the mop pads with heated air. It mapped her apartment flawlessly on the first run, handled pet hair, and left floors streak-free. If you’re looking for a truly hands-off cleaning experience, this is as advanced as it gets in 2025.
Pros:
- Vacuums and scrubs with rotating mop pads
- Self-empties, self-washes, and self-dries
- Powerful suction and smart mapping
- Elegant, compact dock design
Cons:
- Expensive upfront
- Dock is larger than standard charging bases
Best Budget Vacuums
Eureka PowerSpeed Upright
Tested by: Taylor
Best for: Budget-conscious homes with mostly carpeted floors
Why We Like It:
This vacuum is loud and clunky but gets the job done—and fast. Taylor was impressed by the suction on her medium-pile carpet. It has a surprisingly large bin and comes with multiple attachments, though none feel premium.
Pros:
- Under $100
- Great suction on carpets
- Comes with basic accessories
- Easy to empty
Cons:
- Loud and plasticky build
- Not ideal for hardwood or tight corners
Hoover WindTunnel 3
Tested by: Morgan
Best for: Homes that are mostly carpeted and need strong suction without the high price
Why We Like It:
A tried-and-true upright vacuum. Morgan liked the strong performance on her high-traffic carpeted hallway. It’s a bit bulky and not the most stylish, but it’s reliable and straightforward.
Pros:
- Great suction for deep carpet cleaning
- Trusted brand with wide parts availability
- Long cord and wide path
- Affordable
Cons:
- Lacks finesse on bare floors
- Heavy to maneuver and store
Bissell CleanView XR
Tested by: Riley
Best for: Budget-conscious pet owners or anyone needing a lightweight cordless vacuum for small to medium spaces
Why We Like It:
Riley tested the Bissell CleanView XR on hardwood floors and area rugs in a cozy apartment with a shedding cat. The suction was surprisingly effective for picking up pet hair and everyday debris, and the removable battery meant swapping in a fresh one for longer cleaning sessions. It also converts to a handheld, making it easy to clean furniture and car interiors. It won’t replace a full upright, but for its price point, it’s a dependable performer.
Pros:
- Affordable cordless option under $150
- Removable battery for extended runtime or easy replacement
- Converts to a handheld for versatile use
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons:
- Limited suction power for thick or high-pile carpet
- Build feels lightweight—less durable than higher-priced models
Other Things to Consider
HEPA Filtration
Essential for people with allergies or asthma. Miele, Dyson, and Shark offer top-tier HEPA systems.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Bagged vacuums are cleaner to empty and better for allergies, but require ongoing bag replacements. Bagless models save money but can release dust when emptied.
Corded vs. Cordless
Cordless vacuums are convenient and portable, but corded models often have stronger suction and no battery concerns.
Weight and Maneuverability
If you have stairs or a large space, a lightweight or lift-away vacuum will save you effort.
Noise Level
Stick vacuums and robot models tend to be quieter. Uprights can be loud, especially budget models.
Attachments and Accessories
Look for crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair attachments depending on your needs.
Warranty and Customer Support
Brands like Dyson, Miele, and Shark offer excellent warranty coverage and easy-to-access customer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s better, Dyson or Shark?
Both are great. Dyson typically offers better suction and tech features, while Shark often wins on value and practical design. Shark’s anti-hair wrap brush roll is a pet owner’s dream.
Do robot vacuums replace traditional ones?
Not fully. Robot vacuums are great for daily surface cleaning but won’t replace a deep-cleaning upright or canister vacuum.
How long do vacuums usually last?
Budget models last 2–4 years with regular maintenance. Premium vacuums from brands like Miele or Dyson can last 8–12 years.
Are stick vacuums powerful enough for carpets?
Yes, especially higher-end models like the Dyson V15 or Tineco Pure One S15. However, thick, high-pile carpets may benefit from an upright.
Conclusion
After weeks of testing (and vacuuming everything in sight), our biggest takeaway is that there’s no one-size-fits-all vacuum. It truly depends on your space, lifestyle, and what kinds of messes you deal with.
If you’re looking for a solid everyday option, go with the Shark Stratos. Need help with constant pet fur? Dyson Ball Animal 3 is hard to beat. Living in a small space? A Dyson V8 or Tineco Pure One S15 will keep things tidy without taking up much room. And if you’re on a budget, the Eureka or Hoover options will give you great performance for the price.
Whatever you choose, the right vacuum can make cleaning faster, easier, and (dare we say) even satisfying.
Leave a Reply