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We also consider customer satisfaction scores to ensure you choose an upright vacuum that meets your specific needs and offers high value for your investment. Our recommendations are updated regularly to reflect the latest evaluation results and industry insights so you can easily find the ideal budget-friendly upright vacuum cleaner for your home.Note: Our rankings are updated frequently and can change daily based on several factors. These can include fluctuations in updated review scores, adjustments to our ranking algorithm, and whether a product has been discontinued. This ensures that our list remains as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
#1
Kenmore Intuition
The Kenmore Intuition upright vacuum stands out as a versatile and high-performing choice. Its strong suction power delivers impressive cleaning results on both carpets and hard floors, and it includes a switch to toggle the brushroll on or off, adapting to different surfaces as needed. The vacuum is lightweight, enhancing its maneuverability in large areas and on stairs—an essential feature for practical, everyday use. Further adding to its versatility, the “Lift Off” feature allows for easy removal of the pod for cleaning above the floor, while a longer integrated wand helps reach difficult areas. Additionally, its sealed filtration system and high-quality attachments, including a turbo brush, make it a great value within its price range. See additional info
Price as of May 5, 2025
Cleaning Heads: Swivel Head | LED lights | Lift Away
Attachments*: Upholstery Tool | Pet HandiMate | 3-in-1 Combination Tool
Air Filtration: HEPA Bags x6
| Scores | Kenmore Intuition | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 4.58 | 2.66 |
| Performance | 3.77 | 2.84 |
| Features | 3.34 | 1.70 |
| Hard Floor | 4.40 | 2.98 |
| Carpet | 4.63 | 3.10 |
| Attachments | 4.70 | 2.96 |
| Specs | Kenmore Intuition | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 14 lb | 15.27 lb |
| Dust Bin Capacity | 3.1 l | 2.56 l |
| Cord Length | 30 ft | 30.54 ft |
| In the Box*: Upholstery Tool | Pet HandiMate | 3-in-1 Combination Tool | HEPA Bags x6 | ||
#2
Shark Navigator
We think that the Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 is a triumph in budget vacuum design, demonstrating robust suction and versatile cleaning capabilities. Its well-designed swivel steering and light weight make it incredibly user-friendly, while the HEPA filtration and seal technology ensure that it effectively keeps dust and allergens contained. The Lift-Away feature adds significant versatility, allowing easy transition to cleaning stairs, upholstery, or other challenging areas. With its commendable performance on both carpet and hard floors, combined with a thoughtful attachment set, the NV352 offers exceptional value and functionality, standing the test of time as a beloved model in the vacuum cleaner market. See additional info
Price as of May 5, 2025
Cleaning Heads: Swivel Head | Lift Away
Attachments*: Upholstery Tool | Crevice Tool
Air Filtration: HEPA Filtration
| Scores | Shark Navigator NV352 | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 4.15 | 2.66 |
| Performance | 3.53 | 2.84 |
| Features | 2.75 | 1.70 |
| Hard Floor | 3.40 | 2.98 |
| Carpet | 4.63 | 3.10 |
| Attachments | 4.70 | 2.96 |
| Specs | Shark Navigator NV352 | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13.8 lb | 15.27 lb |
| Dust Bin Capacity | 1.32 l | 2.56 l |
| Cord Length | 25 ft | 30.54 ft |
| In the Box*: Upholstery Tool | Crevice Tool | ||
#3
Bissell MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet Slim
We found the Bissell MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet Slim to be an excellent all-around upright vacuum, particularly for pet owners. It excelled in surface debris pickup on both hard floors and carpets—matching the performance of vacuums two to three times its price, despite having slightly below-average sealed suction and crevice performance due to its large front gates. Its versatile Lift-Off design, sealed HEPA filtration, tangle-free brush roll, and useful attachments make it Bissell’s best upright vacuum we’ve tested to date. See additional info
Price as of May 5, 2025
Cleaning Heads: Swivel Head | Anti Tangle | LED lights | Lift Away
Attachments*: Combination Crevice Tool/Dusting Brush | Pet TurboEraser |Tool holder
Air Filtration: HEPA Filtration
| Scores | Bissell MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet Slim | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 4.09 | 2.66 |
| Performance | 2.90 | 2.84 |
| Features | 3.39 | 1.70 |
| Hard Floor | 0.7 | 2.98 |
| Carpet | 3.64 | 3.10 |
| Attachments | 5.0 | 2.96 |
| Specs | Bissell MultiClean Allergen Lift-Off Pet Slim | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 15.7 lb | 15.27 lb |
| Dust Bin Capacity | 0.75 L | 2.56 l |
| Cord Length | 25 ft | 30.54 ft |
| In the Box*: Combination Crevice Tool/Dusting Brush | Pet TurboEraser |Tool holder | ||
#4
Kenmore Featherlite
We are highly impressed with the Kenmore FeatherLite lift-up upright vacuum, finding it to be an exceptional choice, especially considering its budget-friendly price. Its lightweight design, ergonomic handling, and effective cleaning capabilities on both carpets and hard floors make it a standout performer. Additionally, its sealed HEPA filtration system and useful LED lights further enhance its appeal. While there are minor drawbacks like hair tangle and slightly below-average performance on some tests, these do not significantly detract from its overall effectiveness. See additional info
Price as of May 5, 2025
Cleaning Heads: Swivel Head | LED lights | Lift Away
Attachments*: 3-in-1 Combination Tool, Upholstery Tool
Air Filtration: HEPA Filtration
| Scores | Kenmore FeatherLite | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 3.99 | 2.66 |
| Performance | 3.62 | 2.84 |
| Features | 3.02 | 1.70 |
| Hard Floor | 2.7 | 2.98 |
| Carpet | 4.79 | 3.10 |
| Attachments | 2.35 | 2.96 |
| Specs | Kenmore FeatherLite | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12 lb | 15.27 lb |
| Dust Bin Capacity | .75 l | 2.56 l |
| Cord Length | 25 ft | 30.54 ft |
| In the Box*: 3-in-1 Combination Tool, Upholstery Tool | ||
#5
Shark Navigator Professional
The Shark Navigator Professional NV356E is a versatile upright vacuum designed for thorough home cleaning. Its Lift-Away functionality lets users detach the pod for easy cleaning of stairs, furniture, and other above-floor surfaces. Equipped with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal and HEPA filter, it captures 99.9% of dust and allergens. A brushroll shutoff smoothly transitions from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare-floor vacuuming, while swivel steering allows effortless navigation around furniture and tight spaces. Ideal for pet owners, it efficiently picks up pet hair and dander with specialized tools, including a crevice tool and dusting brush. An extra-large 0.87L dust cup reduces interruptions by requiring less frequent emptying.
Price as of May 5, 2025
Cleaning Heads: Swivel Head | Lift Away
Attachments*: Pet Power Brush | Crevice Tool
Air Filtration: HEPA Filtration
| Scores | Shark Navigator Professional | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 3.86 | 2.66 |
| Performance | 2.90 | 2.84 |
| Features | 3.03 | 1.70 |
| Hard Floor | 3.40 | 2.98 |
| Carpet | 4.63 | 3.10 |
| Attachments | BS | 2.96 |
| Specs | Shark Navigator Professional | Average Upright Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 13.8 lb | 15.27 lb |
| Dust Bin Capacity | 2.42 L | 2.56 l |
| Cord Length | 30 ft | 30.54 ft |
| In the Box*: Pet Power Brush, Crevice Tool | ||
Finding the Best Budget Upright Vacuum
The challenge in choosing a vacuum under $200 lies not only in finding one that offers excellent value for money but also one that doesn’t compromise on performance. This guide aims to help you navigate through the essentials of choosing a budget-friendly upright vacuum, under $200, that meets your household cleaning needs effectively.
Key Considerations for a Budget Upright Vacuum
Debris Pickup Efficiency
At the heart of any vacuum’s functionality is its ability to pick up debris. The design of the brush roll and the presence of a squeegee or a dense brush line behind it are crucial; this combination tends to excel in gathering debris rather than dispersing it.
Filtration System
A vacuum cleaner’s robust filtration system, particularly one offering whole machine or HEPA filtration, is indispensable. Such systems ensure that fine particles are not ejected back into the air, maintaining a cleaner, healthier indoor environment. This feature is particularly vital for homes with allergy sufferers or those looking to minimize dust resettlement on surfaces.
User-Friendly Features
Upright vacuums are often designed not just for power but also for versatility. Many models now include lift-away features, allowing the main unit to detach from the base and function as a portable cleaner. This innovation extends their utility beyond floor cleaning, enabling users to tackle furniture, stairs, and even ceiling corners with ease. Coupled with a variety of attachments, such as hoses, crevice tools, and dusting brushes, these vacuums can reach virtually every nook and cranny, ensuring a comprehensive clean.
The inclusion of extendable hoses further enhances their versatility, providing the reach needed to address curtains, shelves, and other above-floor surfaces without cumbersome setups. This blend of power and adaptability makes upright corded vacuums a go-to solution for those seeking a single device that can address a multitude of cleaning challenges.
Innovative Features for Enhanced Maneuverability
The maneuverability of upright vacuums has seen significant advancements, making them not only powerful but also easier to handle and navigate around the home. Innovations such as swivel heads, lightweight designs, and additional features like LED lights on the floorhead have greatly enhanced their user-friendliness and efficiency in cleaning.
- Swivel Steering for Easy Navigation: One of the key features that has improved the maneuverability of upright vacuums is the inclusion of a swivel steering mechanism. This design allows the floorhead to pivot effortlessly around furniture and other obstacles, reducing the need for heavy lifting or awkward repositioning. Swivel steering makes it possible to clean around corners and under furniture with minimal effort, enhancing the vacuum’s ability to tackle a wide range of cleaning scenarios.
- Lightweight Construction: Modern upright vacuums have also benefited from advances in materials and design, resulting in lighter machines that are easier to push and pull across various floor types. This lightweight construction significantly reduces strain on the arms and back, making vacuuming less physically demanding and more comfortable, especially during extended cleaning sessions or when moving the vacuum between floors in multi-story homes.
- Ergonomic Handles and Controls: Ergonomically designed handles and intuitively placed controls contribute to the overall maneuverability of upright vacuums. These features allow for comfortable grip and easy access to switches and buttons, enabling quick adjustments to settings without interrupting the cleaning process.
Conclusion
Choosing the best budget upright vacuum is about weighing the balance between cost, features, and performance. With advancements in technology, budget-friendly vacuums now offer a suite of features that can cater to diverse cleaning needs without draining your wallet. Prioritizing essential features that align with your specific home environment will lead you to a vacuum that provides both convenience and effective cleaning.
Shopping for a high-rated upright vacuum? Check out our upright vacuum reviews, comparisons and guides, as well as our top picks for Best Overall.
