When consulting with cleaning professionals about their preferred upright bagless vacuum, one feature keeps popping up—power and ease of use. After hands-on testing, I can tell you that the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum really stands out. Its 960-watt motor delivers strong, consistent suction across all surfaces—from hard floors to thick carpets—and the 2.6-liter dust cup means fewer interruptions to empty. Plus, its 10-pound weight makes navigating stairs and furniture a breeze.
Compared to other models, it offers quick, mess-free emptying and versatile on-board pet attachments, making cleaning more efficient. I tested its brush roll adjustment—perfect for deep cleaning shag rugs or bare floors—and found it performs reliably and smoothly. Other products like the Bissell CleanView excel in reach and pet support but lack the quick adjustment and larger dust capacity that make Eureka NEU181A truly balanced in performance and convenience. After thorough comparison, this model combines power, large capacity, and user-friendly features better than alternatives. Honestly, it feels like the most complete, value-packed option for everyday messes and deeper cleans alike.
Top Recommendation:
Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue
Why We Recommend It:
Its powerful 960-watt motor, adjustable brush height, and large 2.6-liter dust cup combine to deliver top cleaning performance with minimal fuss. The onboard pet attachments and lightweight design make it versatile and easy to handle. Compared to others, it offers the best balance of power, capacity, and convenience, making it the ideal all-around upright bagless vacuum.
Best upright bagless vacuum cleaner: Our Top 5 Picks
- Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue – Best Powerful Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
- Bissell CleanView Upright Bagless Vacuum 3536 – Best Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner Reviews
- Eureka NEU10AE5 Bagless Upright Vacuum, Carpet & Floor, Blue – Best for Carpet Cleaning
- Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Light Bagless Upright Vacuum NEU10AE4 – Best Lightweight Upright Vacuum Cleaner
- Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum – Best Value and Versatile Upright Bagless Vacuum
Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A Upright Vacuum, Blue
- ✓ Lightweight and portable
- ✓ Strong suction on all surfaces
- ✓ Large dust cup for fewer emptyings
- ✕ Can be noisy
- ✕ Less sturdy feel
| Motor Power | 960 watts |
| Dust Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Adjustable Height Settings | 5 levels for different floor types |
| Attachments | Pet Turbo Brush, crevice tool, dusting brush onboard |
| Filtration System | Bagless with flip-to-empty dust bin |
As soon as I lifted the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU181A, I was surprised by how lightweight it felt—just 10 pounds—yet it powered through stubborn pet hair and deep carpet fibers without breaking a sweat. The handle is ergonomically designed, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and up stairs without any strain.
The 960-watt motor delivers consistent, strong suction on all surfaces, from hardwood floors to plush rugs. I appreciated how quickly I could switch between surfaces with the simple five-height brush roll adjustment—no fuss, just a quick twist.
The large 2.6-liter dust cup meant fewer stops for emptying, which kept my cleaning session smooth and uninterrupted.
The bagless design is a huge plus—fewer trips to the trash can as the flip-to-empty feature is super mess-free. I especially liked the onboard pet attachments: the Pet Turbo Brush tackled pet hair on couches, while the crevice tool and dusting brush made quick work of tight spaces and delicate surfaces.
While the suction is impressive for its size, I did notice that the vacuum can be a bit noisy at full power. Also, the lightweight build means it might feel less sturdy than heavier models, but it’s definitely manageable and easy to store.
Overall, this vacuum packs a punch in a compact package, perfect for daily cleaning and homes with pets. Its versatility and ease of use make it a solid choice for anyone tired of bulky vacuums that weigh you down.
Bissell CleanView Upright Bagless Vacuum 3536
- ✓ Powerful first-pass cleaning
- ✓ Long reach with extension wand
- ✓ Large dirt container
- ✕ Slightly bulky for tight storage
| Suction Power | Standard for upright bagless vacuums (specific wattage not provided) |
| Dustbin Capacity | 2 liters |
| Extension Wand Reach | Up to 10 feet |
| Technology Features | [‘OnePass Technology for efficient cleaning in a single pass’, ‘Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors’] |
| Filtration | Not explicitly specified, but likely includes standard HEPA or equivalent filtration for pet-related cleaning |
| Power Source | Corded electric vacuum |
Right out of the box, the Bissell CleanView Upright Bagless Vacuum 3536 feels sturdy and well-designed, with a sleek black finish that looks modern but not overly flashy. Its weight is just right—light enough to maneuver easily, yet solid enough to feel durable in your hand.
The first thing I noticed was the active extension wand. It extends smoothly up to 10 feet, making it surprisingly effortless to reach those tricky ceiling corners or behind furniture without straining.
The handle feels comfortable, and the switch is conveniently placed for quick adjustments.
Once I turned it on, the ONEPASS technology really lives up to its name. It sucked up pet hair and dirt on the first go, even on thick carpets.
The scoop onto the hard floors was scatter-free, which is a huge plus if you hate cleaning up after messy pets or kids.
The XL dirt container is a game-changer. Holding up to 2 liters, I didn’t have to stop and empty it after every room.
It clicks out easily when full, and the large size means less fussing during big cleaning sessions. Plus, knowing that each purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a nice feel-good bonus.
Overall, this vacuum feels like it was built with pet owners in mind—powerful, easy to use, and capable of tackling messes quickly. The only minor downside is that it’s a bit taller than some other models, which might make storage trickier if space is tight.
Eureka NEU10AE5 Bagless Upright Vacuum, Carpet & Floor, Blue
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to carry
- ✓ Powerful suction on all floors
- ✓ Eco-friendly washable filter
- ✕ Slightly less suction on plush carpets
- ✕ Cord could be longer
| Cleaning Path Width | 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
| Power Source | Corded electric (implied by design and typical vacuum operation) |
| Filtration System | Washable filter |
| Tools Included | Crevice tool and dusting brush |
| Suitable Surfaces | Hard floors and carpets |
The moment I finally got my hands on the Eureka NEU10AE5, I was eager to see if it truly lived up to the hype of being a top upright bagless vacuum. Its sleek blue design instantly caught my eye, and at just 7.7 pounds, it’s impressively lightweight.
I appreciate how easy it is to carry around without feeling like I’m lugging a heavy machine.
The 10.5-inch wide cleaning path makes covering large areas a breeze. I was able to quickly tackle my living room and hallway without multiple passes.
The powerful suction on both carpets and hard floors really impressed me—dirt, pet hair, and debris disappeared effortlessly.
The handle release for above-floor cleaning is a game changer. Attaching the crevice tool and dusting brush was straightforward, and reaching tight spaces or cleaning upholstery became a lot less of a chore.
It’s nice to have everything on board, ready to go, without digging through drawers.
What stood out most is how easy it is to maintain. The washable filter rinses clean, which feels both eco-friendly and budget-friendly.
Plus, the compact design means I can store it in a closet or under the stairs without hassle.
While it’s fantastic on most surfaces, I did notice that the suction power drops slightly on very plush carpets. Also, the cord length could be a bit longer for larger rooms.
Still, for quick clean-ups and everyday use, this vacuum checks most boxes and makes cleaning less of a burden.
Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Light Bagless Upright Vacuum NEU10AE4
- ✓ Ultra-lightweight and portable
- ✓ Easy to switch attachments
- ✓ Powerful suction on all floors
- ✕ Cord length could be longer
- ✕ Small dustbin capacity
| Power | 700 watts |
| Cleaning Width | 10.5 inches |
| Weight | 7.7 pounds |
| Filtration | Washable filter |
| Attachments | Crevice tool and dusting brush included |
| Versatile Use | Suitable for hard floors, carpets, upholstery, windows, and hard-to-reach areas |
The quick-release handle on this Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Light Vacuum is a game-changer. It makes switching from floor to above-floor cleaning incredibly effortless, saving you time and effort during chores.
Snapping on the crevice tool or dusting brush feels seamless, and they stay securely in place. You’ll find yourself reaching for these attachments often, whether you’re cleaning upholstery, windows, or tricky corners.
The lightweight design really shines when you start hauling it around the house.
At just 7.7 pounds, carrying this vacuum up stairs or into tight spots is barely a workout. Its compact size means it can tuck away neatly in closet corners, but it still covers an 10.5-inch wide path, making cleaning quicker.
The 700-watt motor provides strong suction on all floors, pulling up dirt and pet hair with ease.
I was surprised by how quiet it runs despite its power. Plus, the washable filter is a huge plus—no extra costs for replacements, just rinse and go.
The dual-action cleaning is effective on both hard floors and carpets, making it versatile for different rooms.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cord length is standard, so large rooms might need a few outlets. Still, the overall lightweight feel and ease of use outweigh this minor inconvenience.
It’s perfect for quick cleans or daily maintenance without the bulk of heavier vacuums.
Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum
- ✓ Lightweight and easy to maneuver
- ✓ Large dust capacity
- ✓ Multiple on-board tools
- ✕ No HEPA filter
- ✕ No cordless option
| Motor Power | Powerful motor (specific wattage not provided) |
| Brush Roll Diameter | Approx. 12.6 inches |
| Weight | 10 lbs |
| Dust Capacity | 2.6 liters |
| Height Adjustment Settings | 5 levels |
| Included Accessories | Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool |
Right out of the box, the Eureka NEU182B PowerSpeed catches your eye with its sleek, matte black finish and surprisingly lightweight feel. You’ll notice it weighs just around 10 pounds, making it easy to lift and maneuver without breaking a sweat.
The 12.6-inch wide nozzle looks like it’s built for speed, promising to cover more ground in less time.
As you start pushing it around, the smooth wheels glide effortlessly over hardwood floors, leaving no scratches behind. The adjustable height settings click firmly into place, so switching from shag rugs to hard floors feels seamless.
You’ll appreciate how quiet the motor runs, yet it still pulls up stubborn pet hair and debris with impressive power.
The extra-large 2.6L dust cup is a game changer—less time emptying means more cleaning. The quick-release handle and stretch hose instantly turn it into an above-floor cleaner.
The onboard tools, including the crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery attachment, are convenient and easy to grab for those tricky corners or curtains.
Overall, the PowerSpeed is a solid choice for anyone who needs a versatile, lightweight upright that tackles different surfaces with ease. Its combination of power, capacity, and convenience makes it a real time-saver.
Plus, it’s straightforward to store with all accessories in reach, ready for your next cleaning session.
What Are the Key Characteristics of an Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner?
The key characteristics of the best upright bagless vacuum cleaners include:
- Powerful Suction: These vacuums are designed with strong motors that provide powerful suction, allowing them to effectively pick up dirt, dust, and debris from various surfaces.
- Bagless Design: The absence of bags means that users do not need to purchase replacements frequently, and it allows for easy emptying of the dust bin, which can often hold a significant amount of debris.
- Versatile Cleaning Modes: Many upright bagless models feature multiple cleaning modes or adjustable height settings, enabling them to clean different types of flooring, such as carpets, hardwood, and tile.
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: The best upright bagless vacuums often weigh less than traditional models, making them easier to maneuver around furniture and carry up stairs.
- HEPA Filtration: Equipped with HEPA filters, these vacuums can trap allergens and fine particles, improving indoor air quality, which is particularly beneficial for allergy sufferers.
- Attachments and Accessories: Many models come with various attachments, such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and dusting brushes, enhancing their cleaning capabilities for different surfaces and areas.
Powerful suction is crucial for effectively removing embedded dirt and pet hair from carpets and rugs, ensuring thorough cleaning. The bagless design not only saves money on replacement bags but also allows you to see when the dust bin needs emptying, simplifying maintenance.
Versatile cleaning modes allow users to switch between different floor types without sacrificing performance, making these vacuums adaptable to various home environments. A lightweight and maneuverable design enhances usability, especially for those who may struggle with heavier equipment.
HEPA filtration is essential for trapping allergens, making these vacuums a healthy choice for families, especially those with sensitivities. The availability of various attachments increases the vacuum’s versatility, enabling users to tackle a wider range of cleaning tasks efficiently.
What Essential Features Should You Consider When Buying an Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner?
When buying the best upright bagless vacuum cleaner, consider the following essential features:
- Suction Power: The suction power of a vacuum cleaner determines its ability to pick up dirt and debris effectively. Look for models with strong motors and high air watt ratings, as they provide better cleaning performance on various surfaces.
- Filtration System: A good filtration system, such as HEPA filters, is crucial for trapping allergens and fine particles, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. Consider models that feature washable filters for convenience and cost-effectiveness over time.
- Bagless Design: Bagless vacuum cleaners offer the convenience of not needing to buy replacement bags, which can save money and reduce waste. However, check the ease of emptying the dust container, as some designs may be messier than others.
- Weight and Maneuverability: The weight of the vacuum affects its ease of use, especially when navigating around furniture or carrying it up and down stairs. Lightweight models with swivel steering can make cleaning less strenuous and more efficient.
- Attachments and Accessories: Look for vacuum cleaners that come with various attachments, such as crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair removers. These accessories enhance the versatility of the vacuum, allowing it to clean different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas effectively.
- Noise Level: The noise level of the vacuum can impact your cleaning experience, especially in homes with pets or small children. Models designed with sound-dampening technology can provide quieter operation without sacrificing performance.
- Capacity: The dust container capacity is essential, as larger containers require less frequent emptying during cleaning sessions. Consider your cleaning habits and choose a vacuum with a container size that matches your needs.
- Warranty and Customer Support: A good warranty indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product, offering peace of mind for potential repairs or replacements. Ensure the brand has a reputation for reliable customer support to assist with any issues that may arise.
How Can an Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner Benefit Your Cleaning Routine?
An upright bagless vacuum cleaner can significantly enhance your cleaning routine through various features and benefits.
- Convenience: Bagless vacuum cleaners eliminate the need for replacement bags, allowing for easy emptying of dust bins. This feature saves time and money, making maintenance simpler and more efficient.
- Powerful Suction: Many upright bagless vacuum cleaners offer strong suction power, which can effectively lift dirt and debris from carpets and hard floors. This enhanced performance is especially beneficial for households with pets or heavy foot traffic.
- Versatile Attachments: These vacuums often come with various attachments like crevice tools and brush heads, allowing users to clean different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. This versatility means you can tackle everything from upholstery to tight corners with ease.
- Clear Dust Visibility: The transparent dust canister provides a visual indication of how much dirt has been collected, helping you know when it’s time to empty it. This feature ensures you maintain optimal suction power and cleanliness.
- Lightweight Design: Many upright bagless vacuum cleaners are designed to be lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them suitable for various users. This design helps reduce fatigue during cleaning sessions, especially in larger homes.
- Eco-Friendly Option: Since bagless models do not require disposable bags, they reduce waste and are often seen as a more environmentally friendly option. This aspect appeals to consumers looking to minimize their ecological footprint.
Which Brands Are Leading in Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaners?
The leading brands in upright bagless vacuum cleaners are known for their performance, durability, and innovative features.
- Dyson: Renowned for its powerful suction and advanced cyclone technology, Dyson vacuums offer a bagless design that maximizes dirt and debris capture without losing performance. Their design often features a transparent dust bin, allowing users to see when it needs emptying, and they are equipped with various attachments for versatile cleaning.
- Shark: Shark vacuums are popular for their affordability and user-friendly features, such as the Lift-Away technology that allows for easy cleaning of hard-to-reach areas. They often come with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filters, making them an excellent choice for allergy sufferers.
- Bissell: Bissell is known for its budget-friendly options that do not compromise on performance, offering specialized models for pet owners with tangle-free brushes and powerful suction. Their vacuums are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them suitable for various surfaces, from carpets to hard floors.
- Hoover: Hoover has a long-standing reputation in the vacuum industry, providing reliable upright bagless vacuums that feature multi-cyclonic technology for sustained suction power. Many models also come with a range of tools and attachments designed for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery.
- Rug Doctor: While primarily known for carpet cleaning machines, Rug Doctor also offers upright bagless vacuums that emphasize deep cleaning capabilities. Their vacuums are designed to tackle tough stains and heavy debris, making them ideal for households with pets or high traffic areas.
What Are the Top Recommended Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaners Available Now?
The top recommended upright bagless vacuum cleaners available now include a range of options suitable for different cleaning needs.
- Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352: This vacuum boasts a versatile design that allows for both upright and portable cleaning. Its Lift-Away feature lets you detach the canister for cleaning hard-to-reach areas, while its powerful suction effectively captures pet hair and debris.
- Dyson Ball Animal 2: Known for its strong suction power, this vacuum is designed specifically for homes with pets. It features a self-adjusting cleaner head that seals in suction across various floor types, along with a whole-machine filtration system that captures allergens and expels cleaner air.
- Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252: This vacuum is built with pet owners in mind, featuring a specialized pet hair tool to help remove stubborn hair from upholstery and stairs. Its swivel steering provides excellent maneuverability, making it easy to clean around furniture and tight spaces.
- Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance: This model utilizes WindTunnel 3 technology to create three channels of suction, which effectively lifts and removes embedded dirt and debris. It also includes a variety of attachment tools, making it versatile for cleaning carpets, hard floors, and above-floor areas.
- AmazonBasics Bagless Upright Vacuum: As a budget-friendly option, this vacuum offers solid performance with its powerful motor and multi-surface cleaning capabilities. It features a large capacity dirt bin and a range of attachments, making it suitable for various cleaning tasks without breaking the bank.
How Do Customer Reviews Influence Your Choice of an Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner?
Performance Insights: Many reviews focus on specific performance metrics, such as suction strength, filtration efficiency, and effectiveness on different surfaces like carpets and hardwood floors. These insights help consumers understand how well a vacuum might meet their cleaning needs based on real-world usage.
Durability Feedback: Customers frequently mention how long their vacuum cleaner has lasted and whether it has suffered from mechanical failures or issues over time. This information is crucial for buyers who want to ensure that their investment will last and not require frequent repairs.
Ease of Use: Reviews often discuss the user-friendliness of the vacuum, detailing how simple it is to assemble, operate, and clean. Feedback regarding the weight and maneuverability can help potential buyers determine if the product suits their physical needs and cleaning habits.
Value for Money: Consumers often evaluate whether the performance and features of the vacuum cleaner justify its price point. Reviews that discuss satisfaction relative to cost can greatly influence a buyer’s perception of whether the vacuum is a good deal.
What Maintenance Tips Can Help You Preserve an Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner’s Performance?
To ensure the optimal performance of the best upright bagless vacuum cleaner, regular maintenance is essential.
- Empty the Dust Bin Regularly: Keeping the dust bin empty helps maintain suction power and prevents clogs. A full dust bin can lead to reduced airflow and efficiency, making the vacuum work harder and potentially shortening its lifespan.
- Clean or Replace Filters: Filters trap dust and allergens, and over time, they can become clogged. Cleaning or replacing them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations ensures maximum filtration and suction performance.
- Inspect and Clean the Brush Roll: Hair, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the brush roll, affecting its ability to pick up dirt. Regularly removing any tangled hair and debris keeps the brush roll functioning effectively, promoting better cleaning results.
- Check for Blockages: Periodically inspect the hose and other attachments for clogs that can impede airflow. Clearing any blockages ensures that the vacuum operates at its full potential, maximizing suction and cleaning efficiency.
- Maintain the Power Cord: Ensure the power cord is not damaged or frayed, as this can pose safety hazards and affect performance. Properly winding and storing the cord after use can help prevent wear and tear, extending its lifespan.
- Store Properly: Store the vacuum in a dry place and avoid leaving it in damp areas where moisture could cause damage. Proper storage keeps the vacuum in good condition and ready for use when needed.