The 7 Best Vacuum Brands of 2024
Updated: Mar. 12, 2024
These are the best vacuum brands for every type of vacuum owner, according to experts, reviewers and our own testing.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
In the market for a new vacuum? It’s already tough choosing from the hundreds of vacuums ranging from canister models to vacuum mop hybrids. When it comes time to narrow down the best vacuum brands, it largely depends on the specific type of vacuum cleaner you’re looking to buy.
Wendy Trunz, partner and head organizer at Jane’s Addiction Organization, explains that before purchasing a vacuum you need to think about your needs and wants, keeping three things in mind: price, weight and suction. (Those on a budget can still find a cheap vacuum that’s great quality.) Then, figure out what type of vacuum makes the most sense in your living situation.
Luckily, there are a lot of great vacuum brands to choose from and Amazon vacuums are readily accessible. We’ve compiled a list of the best vacuum brands for every category—including the best brand overall.
Best vacuum brands
Best overall
Dyson
Of all the vacuum brands, Dyson is generally considered to be the best overall. The European brand is famous for manufacturing technologically advanced and dependable vacuum cleaners that last several years. Both Kathy Cohoon of Two Maids and Trunz selected the brand as the best overall vacuum company—and both chose the V8 as the top model.
“It is lightweight and has a powerful suction,” says Trunz. It is also perfect for everyday use and “grabbing unwanted pet hair.”
If you can afford to spend a little more, she notes that the V15 is splurge-worthy. “It’s powerful and uses laser illumination to pick up microscopic dust,” she says, adding that it’s a better option for bigger homes. And if money is no object, go all out with the brand’s top-of-the-line Gen5outsize, its largest and most powerful cordless vacuum to date (read our review for the full scoop!).
Pros
- The most high-tech, high-end and dependable vacuum cleaner brand
- Offers a variety of models for every need and budget
- Most vacuums come with great accessories
- Easy to store
Cons
- Overall, Dyson vacuums are on the higher end of the price range
- Electric vacuums take a while to charge
Best budget
Shark
The Shark vs. Dyson debate is a popular one. But in terms of affordability, Shark vacuums are generally considered the winner. With models under $500 and incredibly high ratings in terms of reliability and customer satisfaction, it’s definitely the top-budget brand.
Consumer Reports found that out of 221 vacuum cleaners tested, four out of the eight top vacuum cleaners were Shark. Furthermore, Trunz points out that one of its least expensive vacuums, the Shark Rocket Pro DLX, is a lightweight and powerful corded stick vacuum “that easily converts to a hand vac for floor-to-ceiling cleaning.” It’s also under $200, a vacuum deal. P.S. You can also consider these Shark vacuum accessories to get the most out of your Shark vacuum.
Pros
- More affordable price point than other competitors
- Multiple models range from handheld to cordless to corded uprights
- Lightweight models that are very maneuverable
- Offers a variety of warranty options
Cons
- Not as sleek looking as some of the more high-end vacuum brands
- Not all vacuums are HEPA certified
Best self-emptying
LG
LG might be most famous for its high-end major appliances, including top-rated washing machines and dryers. However, its vacuum cleaners, specifically the self-emptying CordZero, deserve major recognition. While most cleaning machines are better stored in a closet, this system is worthy of wall space. Consider it the Rolls-Royce or Bentley of the genre: Though it comes with a steep price tag, it has the quality performance to match.
Additionally, the all-in-one tower system includes a self-emptying bin for dust and debris, so you don’t have to do it yourself. Plus, it holds up to six accessories and keeps them handy but hidden. It also transforms into a handheld vacuum and comes with a power mop nozzle.
Pros
- LG has an effective self-emptying vacuum system
- Models serve multiple purposes, such as a stick vacuum, handheld vacuum and mop
- Visually stunning designs
- Respectable appliance brand
Cons
- Steep price tags
Best robot
iRobot
While there are a few robot vacuum brands, iRobot spearheaded the market for automatic cleaning gadgets. The brand revolutionized the industry when they introduced the Roomba in 2002, making robot vacuums that are worth the cost.
In over 20 years, the brand has perfected its robot vacuums. The bots range from basic robovacs to supersmart, self-emptying models. It even made a mopping Roomba called the Braava jet m6. And if you’re looking for the best-selling robot vacuum on Amazon, it’s the iRobot.
Pros
- iRobot is a pioneer in the robot vacuum industry
- Lots of Roomba models to choose from, including robot mops
- No sweeping or mopping required
- Mapping technology
Cons
- Not the best option for multi-floor or stair cleaning
Best for pet owners
Bissell
If there was a middle sister between Dyson and Shark, it would be Bissell. While the brand makes all sorts of cleaning products and vacuums, its standout genre is the pet category. The Little Green Machine is famous for cleaning up pet messes and upholstery.
Moreover, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Turbo Plus is one of its top-rated, upright corded cleaners specifically designed to suck up pet hair. We also have an entire list of the best Bissell vacuum cleaners of 2023 for more options.
Pros
- Best at cleaning pet hair and pet messes
- Several pet-oriented models to choose from
- Reasonably priced
- Offers a line of floor and carpet cleaning products
Cons
- Most models require cleaning and maintenance
Most portable
Black+Decker
Anyone who has ever owned a Black+Decker Dustbuster is well aware that the brand has cornered the portable vacuum market. I have owned the OG handheld cleaner for over ten years, and it still serves as a convenient car vacuum (along with other messes around the house). The bagless, lightweight cleaner comes with a rotating slim nozzle, pull-out crevice tool and flip-up brush. In addition, Amazon reviewers are crazy about it, leaving over 97,000 ratings averaging 4.4 stars.
Pros
- Vacuum brand that makes quality portable vacuums
- Designed with useful tools and brushes
- Many models are lightweight and easy to operate
- Upright vacuums and steam mops also available
Cons
- Portable vacuums tend to have a shorter run time
Best bagged
Kenmore
Kenmore is another brand that has been around forever and is considered one of the most reliable appliance brands. According to Consumer Reports, the brand has perfected the bagged upright vacuum with the Kenmore Floor Care Elite. The mid-priced, stainless steel machine comes with lots of attachments, including a crevice tool, bristle brush and power roller.
It’s incredibly powerful however and wherever you choose to use it. Subsequently, put it to the test on carpet or bare floors and watch how great it is at removing stubborn dirt and mud. Even pet hair doesn’t stand a chance.
Pros
- Quality bagged vacuums
- Sleek looking models
- Performs great on different floor types
- Bags are easy to purchase online and in stores
Cons
- Bags need to be replaced often
What to consider when buying a vacuum
Cohoon suggests thinking about your specific needs and preferences when buying any household cleaning tool. “Prone to back aches? Skip the heavy model. Have very little carpeting? Opt for a less expensive brand. Does your home lack outlets? Go for a wireless model,” she says. Above all, before shopping from these vacuum brands, she suggests making a quick list of what you’re looking for, including weight, capabilities, comfort, settings, tank capacity and more.
Undoubtedly, an upright vacuum is usually the most versatile, says Cohoon. “It can be used on a variety of floor types including tile,” she says, adding that they are best for smaller spaces. Trunz adds that they offer powerful suction. The only con? They tend to be on the heavier side. On the other hand, canisters have a long base and are lightweight and easy to maneuver. In terms of convenience, handheld vacuums and stick vacuums are lightweight options that grab all kinds of messes.
How we found the best vacuum brands
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
How long should vacuum cleaners last?
A vacuum is intended to last for up to eight years, explains Trunz. “Factors that can affect its lifespan are usage, maintenance and brand model.” Importantly, brush up on these things you should never vacuum.
Is a bagged or bagless vacuum better?
Clearly, there are pros and cons for bagged and bagless vacuum cleaners. “Bagged vacuums may have a higher cleaning capacity and less dust exposure,” says Trunz. Bagless, on the other hand, are more eco-friendly and can be less expensive to run as you don’t need to purchase replacement bags.
How often should you clean a vacuum?
How often you should clean a vacuum varies by the model, part and accessory, says Trunz. “For example, filters should be cleaned every month while your unit requires a deep clean every 12 months.” Not cleaning often enough could be shortening the life of your vacuum.
About the Experts
- Wendy Trunz is a partner and head organizer at Jane’s Addiction Organization, a lifestyle service designed to declutter and organize homes.
- Kathy Cohoon of Two Maids, a professional-grade cleaning service with a performance-based approach.
Originally Published: June 26, 2023
