What to Consider While Shopping:

Upright Vacuum Cleaners

Pros: Uprights tend to cost less than canister vacuums and offer a wider cleaning swath. They are generally better at deep-cleaning carpets—particularly the bagged models. Most are easy to store.

Cons: Pushing and pulling the weight of the machine. Some top performers weigh 20 pounds or more, although lighter models can still do the job. Uprights tend to be noisier than canisters.

Canister Vacuum Cleaners

Pros: Canisters are better than uprights for cleaning bare floors, stairs, drapes, and upholstery, and under furniture – and some are as good as uprights at cleaning carpets. Most are quieter, and the separate power head makes them seem lighter as well.

Cons: Overall, these vacuums are bulkier than their upright brethren. The hose and wand make a canister harder to squeeze into a closet.

Modern vacuums come in a range of designs, sleek shapes, and cool colors. But what matters most is how well they clean. Remember that one type of vacuum might have features that appeal to you, but it should also fit your cleaning needs.

Pet owners, take note: Upright and canister vacuum cleaners that excel at regular jobs tested best in show for picking up pet hair.

• Check Features

A vacuum cleaner with a motorized brush cleans carpets better than one powered only by suction. A switch that can deactivate the brush will help protect the finish of bare floors and avoid scattering debris. Consider models with a manual carpet pile-height adjustment control, along with suction control for cleaning draperies and other delicate fabrics.

• Bagged or Bagless

Bagless vacuum cleaners save on the cost of purchasing bags but they also require more filters that need periodic cleaning or—for HEPA filters—replacing. The dust and mess of emptying their bins can be a concern if you have asthma or allergies.

• Try It Out

Go to a store first. Push, pull, turn, and lift the vacuum cleaners you're considering. Check out the controls and features.

• Keep an Ear Out for Noise

No vacuum cleaner reached the level at which we recommend hearing protection, but any vacuum will seem louder in a room with a lot of echo, such as a tiled bathroom. Canister vacuums tend to be quieter.