10 Best Upright Vacuums 2026 in the United States

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away (model NV356E), is a versatile and powerful vacuum designed to meet various cleaning needs, particularly for pet owners. Its lift-away functionality allows you to detach the pod for easy cleaning of above-floor areas like stairs and furniture. The vacuum features a robust HEPA filtration system combined with an anti-allergen complete seal, trapping 99.9% of dust and allergens, which is excellent for allergy sufferers.

The vacuum is slightly on the heavier side at 13.7 pounds, but it compensates with swivel steering for easy maneuverability around furniture and tight spaces. The brushroll shutoff feature allows you to switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning effortlessly. The extra-large dust cup (0.87 liters) means fewer trips to the trash can during extended cleaning sessions. It also comes with useful attachments like a pet power brush, dusting brush, and an 8-inch crevice tool, making it highly versatile.

However, it is not cordless, which could limit mobility, and its noise level at 80 dB may be considered loud by some users. Despite these drawbacks, its powerful suction, excellent filtration, and multiple attachments make it a top choice for households with pets and varied flooring types.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe NV360, offers a solid combination of features and performance, making it a great choice for households dealing with pet hair and allergens. One of its standout strengths is its powerful suction, which effectively cleans both carpets and hard floors. The detachable pod enhances usability by allowing users to clean under furniture and reach high-up areas with ease.

Its anti-allergen complete seal technology, paired with a HEPA filter, significantly reduces allergens, making it suitable for allergy sufferers. Additionally, the large dust cup capacity means less frequent emptying, which is a plus for longer cleaning sessions. The included upholstery tool and crevice tool are handy attachments for tackling pet hair, while the swivel steering makes maneuverability around furniture effortless.

There are some drawbacks to consider. Weighing nearly 16 pounds, it might feel a bit heavy for some users, especially during extended cleaning. The noise level at 80 dB is reasonably loud, which could be a concern for those who prefer quieter appliances. Also, being corded, it limits mobility compared to cordless models, although the cord length is sufficient for most rooms.

The Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away is a strong contender for pet owners and multi-surface cleaning needs. It harnesses 1200 watts of power, providing robust suction to effectively lift dirt and pet hair. A notable feature is its self-cleaning brushroll, designed to handle pet hair without getting tangled, making maintenance simpler. The vacuum's HEPA filtration system, combined with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, excels at trapping dust and allergens, which is great for those with allergies.

At 14.99 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for an upright vacuum, and its Lift-Away functionality allows for versatile cleaning of furniture and stairs. This model is bagless, making it convenient to empty and clean, and it comes with a 5.3-liter dust cup capacity, reducing the frequency of emptying. The cord length is adequate for medium to large rooms without constant unplugging. The included attachments, such as the Pet Crevice Tool and Upholstery Tool, enhance its suitability for pet owners by reaching tight spaces and delicate fabrics. Swivel steering adds to the maneuverability, making it easy to navigate around furniture and corners.

At 80 dB, it is considered moderately noisy, which might be a drawback for some users. Its glossy finish and teal color add an aesthetic touch, while the 5-year limited warranty provides peace of mind. If you're seeking a robust, versatile vacuum, especially for homes with pets, this model is a solid choice.