Getting started

A rough-and-tumble market is driving new designs and features as the once humble vacuum cleaner goes high-tech. But we've found that high-priced, feature-laden machines don’t necessarily clean better. You’ll find many strong performers for $400 or less. Use our vacuum cleaner guide to find the best model for your home.

The right vacuum for the job

Carpets top the list of critical cleaning chores, an area where upright models have traditionally excelled. But you may prefer a canister or a central vacuum for other cleaning. Within types, check our Ratings of canister (available to subscribers) and upright (available to subscribers) models for a powerful model, one that performed well in our airflow tests. Here’s what else to go by when shopping:

Try before you buy

Some vacuums are easier than others to push, pull, and carry. See which feels best at the store. Many of the heavier upright vacuums do not score well in our handling tests.

Protect your ears

The noisiest vacuums we tested produced 85 decibels or more, the level at which we recommend hearing protection. Canister vacuums as a group tend to be quieter.

See also:

Wet/dry vacs

Air purifiers

Dehumidifiers

Humidifiers