Vacuum cleaners

Vacuum cleaner selector

Sort our Ratings based on features, brands and other factors.

What's behind our vacuum cleaner Ratings?

Experts at our National Testing and Research Center tested 130 models in vacuum cleaners to see which ones perform best.

We look for:

Overall score
This score is based mainly on cleaning performance and ease of use. The displayed score is out of a total of 100 points.
Carpet
This score shows how much embedded talc and sand a vacuum cleaner lifted from a medium-pile carpet.
Bare floors
This score shows how well a vacuum cleaner picked up sand without dispersing it on bare floors.
Tool airflow
This score indicates the strength of airflow through the hose.
Noise
This is based on measurements in decibels.
Emissions
This is a measurement of the quantity of wood-flour particles that are released under two conditions: first, only when the motor is turned on, and second, while vacuuming.
Handling
Reflects how easy it is to push, pull, and carry a vacuum.
Pet hair
Reflects how well a vacuum picks up pet hair from medium-pile carpet.

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Recommended vacuum cleaners

Recommended vacuum cleaners are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices, weigh features, price, and attributes that matter to you.

Recommended vacuum cleaners

Vacuum cleaner buying guide

To find the vacuum cleaner that is right for you, read our expert advice on which features to consider and how to find the best value.

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Why shop here?

In addition to finding Ratings for the latest models, you can now shop online using an ad-free interface where you can buy vacuum cleaners in a safe-shopping environment.

Learn more about our Price & Shop program

Consider your cleaning needs when choosing between a canister and an upright vacuum cleaner. Try it before you buy it to make sure you can maneuver the vacuum cleaner comfortably and that it is not too noisy. If you're looking for information about vacuum cleaners, Consumer Reports is your best resource. Consumer Reports’ vacuum cleaner reviews will give you honest buying advice that you can trust. Use our vacuum cleaner buying guide to discover which features are most important to consider. We also provide unbiased Ratings and vacuum cleaner reviews to help you choose the best vacuum cleaner for your needs.

Ratings & recommended vacuum cleaners

Canister vacuum cleaners (37)

Recommended models are standout choices with high scores. They include CR Best Buys, which offer exceptional value. When narrowing your choices among models, weigh performance, features, price, and attributes that matter to you, such as color, size, or style.

Small vacuums (26)

Upright vacuum cleaners (67)

Recently reviewed vacuum cleaners

Electrolux UltraSilencer EL6986A (Tested)

This 17-pound bag-equipped canister is designed to operate quietly. It has suction control, manual pile-height adjustment, HEPA filteration, and a full-bag indicator. It has an easy on/off switch and a 21-foot, retractable cord.

Electrolux UltraSilencer EL6986A

Kenmore Progressive 21614

Metropolitan Professionals ADM-4PNHSF

Miele S 2121 Delphi

Vacuum cleaner buying guide

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 strong performers for as little as $100. Use our vacuum cleaner guide to select the best model for your home.

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