Finding a reliable, powerful upright vacuum that doesn’t break the bank can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With so many options promising deep cleaning at low prices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we did the hard work for you. We tested and researched dozens of models to bring you this definitive list of the best cheap upright vacuums. These picks prove you don’t need to spend a fortune to keep your home spotless, offering fantastic suction, easy maneuverability, and smart features that rival far more expensive machines.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Best Cheap Upright Vacuum Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner
This Amazon Basics model completely shatters the myth that store brands are low-quality. It’s a lightweight powerhouse that delivers surprisingly strong suction on both carpets and hard floors. Weighing just over 8 pounds and featuring a long cord, it’s incredibly easy to carry and maneuver around your home without constantly unplugging. For anyone needing a reliable, no-fuss vacuum for daily cleanup, this is an exceptional value.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight & Maneuverable: At only 8.4 lbs, it’s a breeze to carry up stairs and use for above-floor cleaning.
- ✓ Long 25-Foot Cord: Reduces the need to constantly change outlets, covering large areas with ease.
- ✓ Large 1.7L Dust Cup: Allows for longer cleaning sessions before needing to empty.
- ✓ Washable Filter: Saves money on replacements and maintains suction performance.
- ✓ Versatile Attachments: Includes a crevice tool and upholstery brush for detailed cleaning.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Amazon Basics vacuum because it outperforms its price tag in every way. Its suction is robust enough for pet hair, kitty litter, and ground-in dirt, yet it remains wonderfully simple to use and empty. It’s the perfect “grab-and-go” vacuum for quick cleanups or full-room vacuuming without any complicated settings.
Best For
Apartments, small homes, dorms, and anyone who wants a lightweight, effective vacuum for everyday messes without any operational hassle. It’s especially great for pet owners on a tight budget.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely affordable with impressive suction power.
- Very lightweight and easy to store.
- Long power cord minimizes outlet switching.
- Bagless design with easy-empty dust cup.
Cons:
- The hose for attachments is somewhat short.
- Cleaning path is narrower than full-sized vacuums.
- Build quality feels basic, though functional.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am astounded at how well this vacuum actually worked… holy cow. I read the reviews and I normally don’t trust reviews… but the reviews for this vacuum are actually very spot on. I have a number of pets and it sucked all the pet hair up… worked amazingly on my carpet… only had to plug it in twice maybe three times to move around. This is absolutely amazing super long cord super great product I am actually really amazed at how great of a product this is.”
Customer Review: “Here’s the TL;DR review: It’s cheap. It works. For what I spent, and for the amount of hair it picked up on the first pass? I’m absolutely, 100% over the moon happy with it… So, really happy with the purchase. Still looking for a more permanent solution, but I’ll probably end up leaving this vacuum in a closet upstairs… It’s really light, and REALLY has a lot of suction power.”
2. Eureka NEU10AE4 Airspeed Upright Vacuum
The Eureka Airspeed lives up to its name with a featherweight design that makes vacuuming feel less like a chore. At just 7.7 pounds, it’s one of the lightest uprights you can buy, yet it packs a punch with powerful suction for both carpets and hard floors. Its compact size and quick-release handle make it perfect for storing in tight spaces and tackling above-floor cleaning with the included tools.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight (7.7 lbs): Effortlessly carry and maneuver, especially on stairs.
- ✓ Quick-Release Handle: Easily detaches for using the crevice tool or dusting brush.
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Effectively lifts dirt and hair from both carpets and hard surfaces.
- ✓ Narrow 10.5″ Cleaning Path: Gets into tight spots and is easy to control.
- ✓ Compact Storage: Takes up minimal closet space.
Why We Recommend It
This vacuum is our Editor’s Choice because it removes the biggest barrier to regular cleaning: weight and hassle. Its incredible lightness encourages frequent use, and the suction is better than expected for its size. It’s a practical, no-fuss machine that makes staying on top of everyday messes genuinely easy.
Best For
Anyone who hates lifting a heavy vacuum, especially for quick cleanups, stairs, or small living spaces like apartments and condos. It’s ideal for hard floors and low-pile carpets.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry.
- Surprisingly strong suction for its size.
- Very compact and simple to store.
- Great for both hard floors and carpet.
Cons:
- Not designed for deep, heavy-duty carpet cleaning.
- Smaller dust cup requires more frequent emptying.
- Narrow cleaning path means more passes on large floors.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The biggest benefit of this vacuum isn’t just performance; it’s how easy it makes it to actually clean regularly. Because it’s lightweight and quick to grab, I find myself using it more often instead of putting things off… Easy to grab and use, no hassle. Lightweight but still effective. Works well on both hard floors and carpet. Compact and easy to store.”
Customer Review: “This vacuum is powerful and compact like described. Not heavy to carry at all. Catches a lot of dust especially from carpets!! Very easy to use, both my pre teen and teen were able to use without any issues. It quickly picked up the dirt and dust from their carpeted rooms… The air feels thinner when we vacuum.”
3. Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum
The Eureka PowerSpeed is the definition of getting more than you pay for. It features an upgraded cyclone system that provides powerful pickup for embedded dirt and pet hair across all floor types. With multiple height settings, a large easy-empty dust cup, and a surprisingly quiet operation, it’s a workhorse that feels much more expensive than its sub-$100 price tag suggests.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Upgraded Cyclone Technology: Maintains strong suction by separating larger debris and fine dust.
- ✓ 5 Height Adjustment Settings: Seamlessly transitions between deep carpet and bare floors.
- ✓ Large 2.6L Easy-Empty Dust Cup: Less frequent emptying with a simple, one-touch release.
- ✓ Lightweight & Maneuverable: Easy to push and pull without excessive effort.
- ✓ Included Pet Turbo Tool: Excellent for lifting stubborn pet hair from furniture and stairs.
Why We Recommend It
As our Best Budget pick, the PowerSpeed offers an incredible feature set for the money. The cyclone system genuinely works to sustain suction, and the multiple height adjustments make it versatile for mixed-floor homes. It’s a no-nonsense, powerful cleaner that gets the job done without any gimmicks.
Best For
Budget-conscious families, first-time apartment owners, and pet owners who need strong suction and versatility without spending over $100. It’s a fantastic all-rounder for medium to large homes with mostly carpet.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional value for money with powerful suction.
- Multiple height settings for different floor types.
- Large, easy-to-empty dust cup.
- Surprisingly quiet operation for an upright.
- Includes a useful pet turbo tool.
Cons:
- Initial height adjustment knob can be stiff out of the box.
- Cord length is average (around 25 feet).
- Some users note the handle/hose extension isn’t immediately obvious from the manual.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a good, powerful vacuum that has everything you need as a first-time apartment dweller. It works well on both carpet and hard floors, is easy to use, and simple to clean. Lightweight design with solid suction makes it a great value for the price.”
Customer Review: “I looked at lots of vacuums… This Eureka PowerSpeed… I am amazed! This thing is light and easy to maneuver, gets under the toe space and under the edges of furniture easily. It cleans right to the edge… Not loud or obnoxious at all. The ease of dumping the dust bin is a big thing for me… I can’t find anything negative about the Eureka. I am looking forward to vacuuming the rest of the house and picking up a bushel of pet hair.”
4. Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away is a legendary model for a reason. Its signature feature is the detachable pod, which transforms this upright into a portable canister for cleaning stairs, furniture, and above-floor surfaces with ease. Combined with swivel steering for tight turns and a HEPA filter that traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, it’s a versatile and powerful cleaning system.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Pod: Detach the canister for lightweight portable cleaning.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Effortlessly maneuver around furniture and obstacles.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal: HEPA filter traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
- ✓ Brushroll Shut-Off: Protects bare floors by stopping the brush roll when upright.
- ✓ Pet Hair Tool: Effective at removing pet hair from upholstery and stairs.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Navigator Lift-Away for its unbeatable versatility. The lift-away function is a game-changer for multi-surface cleaning, and the swivel steering makes it incredibly agile. It’s a reliable, well-built machine that excels at both floor cleaning and detailed above-floor tasks, all at a mid-range price.
Best For
Homes with a mix of carpets and hard floors, pet owners, and anyone who needs an effective tool for cleaning stairs, furniture, and ceilings. It’s a great “one vacuum does it all” solution.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent lift-away functionality for stairs and furniture.
- Superb maneuverability with swivel steering.
- Strong suction on all floor types.
- HEPA filtration is great for allergy sufferers.
- Durable and well-regarded for longevity.
Cons:
- Cord is shorter than some competitors.
- Dust bin emptying can be slightly messier than top-mount designs.
- Can feel a bit top-heavy when the pod is detached.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The vacuum is just like the other Sharks I have had. Great suction, filtration and ease of use. I love the hand roller tool, it works great on my cat trees! Excellent quality, I have no doubt it will last for years. I would buy this again. Only my 3rd Shark because they last while getting put through the test at our house. Its been 30 years of using them. This one is powerful and picks up all the dirt and pet hair. Nice size dirt bin too.”
Customer Review: “I got this vacuum after my Sister recommended Shark… The vacuum works GREAT. We’ve got two dogs that shed a lot and it did fine with the dog hair… Suction is AMAZING and I love that the lower unit brush turns off when the vacuum is upright… It can be a little tippy, but that’s a small price to pay for the maneuverability of this thing… All in all, at 54 I can say with certainty this is the nicest, quietest, most effective vacuum I’ve ever owned. The customer service I received has me converted to Shark for the rest of my life.”
5. Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Vacuum
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe (NV360) takes the popular lift-away design and refines it. It offers powerful multi-surface suction and the same convenient detachable pod as its sibling, but often at an even better price point. The swivel steering and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter make it a formidable opponent to much more expensive vacuums, especially for allergy sufferers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Multi-Surface Suction: Deep-cleans carpets and effectively cleans bare floors.
- ✓ Lift-Away Detachable Pod: Lightweight canister for cleaning stairs, furniture, and above-floor.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal: HEPA filter captures and traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Excellent maneuverability in tight spaces.
- ✓ Large Capacity Dust Cup: Easy to empty with a bottom-release door.
Why We Recommend It
This Deluxe model is a standout because it delivers the core Shark Navigator experience—powerful suction, lift-away convenience, and HEPA filtration—at a price that frequently dips below $100. It’s a testament to the fact that you can get premium features without the premium cost. The larger dust cup and effective seal are major practical wins.
Best For
Families with allergies or asthma, pet owners, and anyone with a multi-level home who needs the versatility of a lift-away canister for stairs and furniture. It’s an exceptional value in the mid-$80 to $120 range.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding suction power on all surfaces.
- Highly versatile lift-away design.
- Excellent HEPA filtration for allergens.
- Easy-empty dust cup with bottom release.
- Often available at a significant discount.
Cons:
- Floor head is on the narrower side.
- Cord length could be longer.
- Dust bin seal requires proper alignment to prevent leaks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This is a long one, but it’s worth the read… I picked this up in October so I’ve been using it for a few months… I am absolutely impressed! This beats my Dyson AND my Kirby hands down. Superior suction, amazing maneuverability, lighter than either the Kirby or the Dyson… I can get underneath my barstools so much easier now and my entire house ( approx. 2000 sq ft.) is done in 20 minutes, tops!… It’s really saved my back! And it was so much less expensive than the Dyson or the Kirby… I will never buy another vacuum from anyone else other than Shark again. Good job, guys! I highly recommend it.”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum… this advertised a limited 5 year warranty. I got it, because 99 for a well reviewed vacuum was excellent in idea… My only caveats to date are that it has a smaller agitator head… Suction on this vacuum is amazing… The hose diameter is larger… you really need to be careful when using the attachments… Emptying the dustbin is more involved than my Bissell and Hoover vacuums… the dual latch does offer the better seal… Moving this around is easier than the Bissell 2999 as well… I am actually very impressed and absolutely can recommend this vacuum to anyone who needs something better. I absolutely can recommend it to anyone who has allergies like me as well. Best vacuum to date.”
6. Vazone R6X Corded Stick Vacuum
The Vazone R6X is a corded stick vacuum that packs a serious punch with 20Kpa of suction power. It bridges the gap between a lightweight stick and a full upright, offering consistent power (no batteries to die) and a 2-in-1 design that converts to a handheld. Its cyclone HEPA filtration system captures fine particles, making it a strong contender for those wanting stick convenience with upright-like performance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful 20Kpa Suction: Strong enough to pull up embedded dirt and pet hair.
- ✓ Corded Power: Unlimited runtime with consistent suction, no battery degradation.
- ✓ 2-in-1 Design: Converts easily to a handheld for above-floor and car cleaning.
- ✓ Cyclone HEPA Filtration: Traps fine dust and allergens.
- ✓ Lightweight & Portable: Easy to carry and store, with a 16ft cord.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Vazone R6X for anyone frustrated with the inconsistent suction and limited runtime of battery-powered stick vacuums. It offers the convenience of a stick form factor with the reliable, powerful performance of a corded model. It’s a fantastic solution for quick cleanups, small homes, or as a secondary vacuum for cars and stairs.
Best For
Small apartments, homes with mostly hard floors, car owners, and anyone who wants the ease of a stick vacuum but refuses to compromise on suction power or worry about battery life.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very strong suction for its size and price.
- Corded means no loss of power and unlimited runtime.
- Versatile 2-in-1 handheld conversion.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Effective HEPA-style filtration.
Cons:
- The 16ft cord is relatively short for larger rooms.
- The standing lock can be finicky; may require manual support.
- Not ideal for deep cleaning large, plush carpets.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’m really impressed with this corded stick vacuum. The suction is strong and it works extremely well on carpet, area rugs, and throw rugs. It pulls up dirt and debris I didn’t even realize was there… If you have pets, this vacuum is a lifesaver… I like that it’s corded because the power stays consistent the entire time—no loss of suction like with battery vacuums. It’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and simple to use… Overall, this is a powerful, reliable vacuum that performs better than I expected for the price.”
Customer Review: “This small yet mighty vacuum cleaner was very easy to set up after opening the box. It has a very strong suction. So strong that it even picked up a rubber mat that I accidentally ran over while vacuuming. Truly amazing. The price was right for this small vacuum. My only complaint is that the cord is kinda short and you have to push down on the device because it locks in the standing position often. Nonetheless, I’d still gave it a 5 star rating because of how powerful and portable this little vacuum cleaner is.”
7. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum
As the name suggests, the Bissell CleanView Compact is purpose-built for small spaces like dorms, apartments, and RVs. It’s a smaller, simpler version of a full-sized upright, but don’t let its size fool you. It features Bissell’s Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors and delivers powerful suction in a body that’s easy to store and incredibly lightweight, even with its removable wand for above-floor cleaning.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Compact Design: Fits in tiny closets and is easy to carry up and down stairs.
- ✓ Scatter-Free Technology: Captures messes on hard floors without kicking debris around.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Surprising cleaning power for such a small unit.
- ✓ Removable Wand: Converts for cleaning furniture, stairs, and tight spaces.
- ✓ Long Cord: Allows cleaning a decent-sized room without unplugging.
- ✓ Pet Foundation Support: Every purchase helps Bissell’s pet rescue mission.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Bissell for anyone constrained by space. It’s the perfect “first apartment” vacuum or a fantastic secondary vacuum for a small room or basement. Its simplicity is its strength—there are no complicated settings, just a powerful, easy-to-use machine that gets the job done.
Best For
Dorm rooms, studio apartments, small homes, RVs, and anyone who needs a vacuum that fits in a tight closet but still provides effective cleaning on both hard floors and low-pile carpet.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely compact and lightweight.
- Powerful suction for its small size.
- Excellent on hard floors with Scatter-Free tech.
- Very affordable.
- Easy to store and carry.
Cons:
- Not suitable for deep cleaning thick, plush carpets.
- Build quality feels very basic/plastic.
- Small dust cup needs frequent emptying.
- Narrow cleaning path increases cleaning time on large floors.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I’ve only ever written one review before. My partner and I are very impressed with this small vacuum. I read lots of reviews and thought I’d give this a try. It is a very small vacuum. Very simple. No settings on the vacuum, no light, very narrow, short in stature, very long cord, excellent, excellent suction!!!!!! Feels very light and somewhat cheap, however, the strong suction is so impressive. Its so light I can hold it while vacuuming my stairs. The narrow vacuum fits into smaller areas. Money well spent.”
Customer Review: “Imagine a regular upright vacuum cleaner, of ‘normal’ size. This is just like that, but 30% smaller. Which I was not really expecting, but that’s on me. It’s a little dynamo however, it does a fantastic job, and I’m super happy with it. Everything about it is smaller and lighter, and maybe not particularly solid feeling. But it works, and works really well. I could see it being perfect for smaller places…”
8. Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum
The Eureka Blaze is a versatile 3-in-1 stick vacuum that’s incredibly light at just 4 pounds. Its standout feature is the Capture Nozzle, which is designed to pick up larger debris like cereal or kitty litter without pushing it around, a common issue with other stick vacs. With swivel steering and a long cord, it’s a nimble and effective tool for hard floors, low-pile rugs, and quick spills.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight (4 lbs): Effortless to carry and use with one hand.
- ✓ Eureka’s Capture Nozzle: Grabs larger debris instead of scattering it.
- ✓ 3-in-1 Design: Use as a stick, handheld, or with the crevice tool.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Improves maneuverability around furniture.
- ✓ Long Cord: 16-foot cord provides good reach.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Eureka Blaze for its unique ability to handle both fine dust and larger debris on hard surfaces. It’s the ultimate “grab-and-go” vacuum for daily maintenance cleaning, especially in kitchens and dining areas. Its lightness and versatility make it a joy to use for quick touch-ups.
Best For
Hardwood, tile, and linoleum floors; small cleanups; pet owners dealing with litter scatter; and anyone who wants an extremely lightweight, versatile vacuum for above-floor and floor cleaning. Not ideal for deep carpet cleaning.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to store.
- Capture Nozzle effectively picks up larger debris.
- Versatile 3-in-1 configurations.
- Great on hard floors and low-pile rugs.
- Long cord for a stick vacuum.
Cons:
- Struggles with deep carpet cleaning and thick pet hair.
- Air exhaust can blow light debris/pet hair around.
- Filter is basic and may need frequent cleaning.
- Not a replacement for a full-sized upright on carpet.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “It isn’t fair to call this a vacuum. It is an upgraded dust buster. Compact, light, easy to use and store. It has powerful suction for a small machine and a nice long cord. I bought it for litter scatter, which it picks up great… It does work on area rugs. However I still prefer my traditional vacuum for vacuuming the house. Only con I’ve noticed is with pet hair. The air blowing out the sides is strong enough to lift pet hair or large dust bunnies from the floor so you have to chase after them. Also the filter is kind of crappy.”
Customer Review: “LOVE !! Okay, I’m a real person. I’m a massage therapist and I just got new carpeting in my room… I bought this little vacuum. Everybody said it was great on hardwoods, so I was worried about really fluffy carpeting. This little vacuum is amazing every time I vacuum up then I shake it outside. I can see how many little ants it sucked up! It sucks everything up even teeny, tiny little things. I love this vacuum. It was the best little purchase.. surprisingly super strong and way better than I expected. It works great on carpet.”
9. EUREKA PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum
This is another variant of the Eureka PowerSpeed line, often listed separately due to minor cosmetic or accessory differences. It shares the core DNA of its sibling: a lightweight body (around 10 lbs), powerful multi-surface suction, and a large 2.6L dust cup. It includes a Pet Turbo Tool and offers 5 height adjustments, making it a straightforward, capable workhorse for budget-conscious buyers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight & Portable (10 lbs): Easy to carry and store.
- ✓ Powerful Multi-Surface Suction: 5 height settings for carpets and hard floors.
- ✓ Extra-Large 2.6L Dust Cup: Easy-empty design means less stopping.
- ✓ Pet Turbo Tool Included: Effective on furniture and stairs for pet hair.
- ✓ Onboard Accessory Storage: All tools are stored on the vacuum.
Why We Recommend It
This EUREKA-branded PowerSpeed model is recommended for its sheer simplicity and effectiveness. It’s a no-frills, high-performance vacuum that focuses on the essentials: strong suction, easy emptying, and adaptability. For under $100, it’s hard to beat for a straightforward, reliable cleaning experience on mixed flooring.
Best For
Families and pet owners looking for a basic, powerful upright without extra features. It’s an excellent value pick for medium-sized homes with a combination of carpet and hard floors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable with strong suction.
- Large, easy-to-empty dust cup.
- Multiple height settings for different surfaces.
- Includes a useful pet turbo tool.
- All accessories store onboard.
Cons:
- Cord length is on the shorter side.
- Does not have an automatic brush roll shut-off for hard floors.
- Build quality is functional but not premium.
- Can be a bit loud during operation.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Back in the day… they would try to sell you vacuum cleaners that not only clean floors but pureed fruit… nowadays things are very different. Now we toss it out and get a new one… I recommend this vacuum cleaner because the front end brushes reach closer to the floor and carpet and grab everything in sight. It has the no bag system… This vacuum cleaner has tremendous suction. It has a great front end brush. They’re really cool feature about this vacuum cleaner is the handle comes off and you have an extended hand vacuum cleaner… Highly recommend this vacuum cleaner and I was not compensated or rewarded for saying nice things.”
Customer Review: “My previous vacuum was by a very popular brand, and it was expensive. It had every feature… I had it for years and hated it. Why? Because it was very heavy, unwieldy, and bulky… This machine is much simpler and significantly less expensive. It is lighter by a mile. All of the accessories mount on it, which is a huge plus, and it is just as powerful as the former premium unit… I’m tired of ‘advancement’ that makes simple devices more complicated and more prone to failure. This is a basic vacuum. What does it do? It vacuums, and that is just what I need it to do.”
10. Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Vacuum
The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel is a pet-focused powerhouse that proves you don’t need a Dyson to tackle stubborn pet hair. Its Triple Action Brush Roll is designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded hair from carpets. Combined with swivel steering for easy navigation and a large, easy-empty dirt tank, it’s a formidable and surprisingly affordable tool for homes with heavy shedding.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Triple Action Brush Roll: Specifically engineered to tackle embedded pet hair and dirt.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Excellent maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.
- ✓ Large, Easy-Empty Dirt Tank: Simple to empty with one touch, and it’s see-through.
- ✓ Scatter-Free Technology: Helps contain debris on hard floors.
- ✓ Pet Hair Tool: Included for cleaning furniture, stairs, and upholstery.
- ✓ Pet Foundation Support: Every purchase helps save homeless pets.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Bissell 2252 primarily for its exceptional pet hair removal capabilities. The brush roll design is incredibly effective, and the swivel head makes it easy to use. For anyone frustrated with vacuums that seem to just push pet hair around, this model is a revelation, especially given its budget-friendly price.
Best For
Homes with dogs, cats, or other heavy shedders. It’s also great for families with thick, mat-prone carpeting that needs a deep clean. A top choice for pet owners on a budget.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding at removing embedded pet hair.
- Excellent maneuverability with swivel steering.
- Large, transparent, and easy-to-empty dirt tank.
- Strong suction on both carpet and hard floors.
- Great value for the performance.
Cons:
- The hose for the pet tool is relatively short.
- Can be a bit loud during operation.
- Not specifically designed for delicate bare floors (brush roll can’t always be shut off).
- Some users note it can tip over easily due to lightweight design.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “How do I give this thing 10 stars?? Seriously. This vacuum is a gift from heaven! We have struggled with long-hair dogs… We have purchased expensive Dyson vacuums specifically for pets, expensive Shark vacuums specifically for pets, and an expensive Kirby, which honestly has been the best vacuum so far. Until this cheap Bissell. Not cheap quality… PHENOMENAL quality for a cheap price. Don’t bother spending $500 on a junky Dyson. This Bissell is a miracle worker… I am telling you… this is the best vacuum ever. I never would have imagined an inexpensive Bissell would outshine every ‘big name’ superpower vacuum. But it does. Leaps and bounds better.”
Customer Review: “Great vacuum if you have pets! We have large dogs and went through two other vacuums from a competitor that struggled to keep suction and were much heavier and unwieldy. The Bissell 2252 is fairly lightweight by comparison but has a much wider suction and roller head which cuts down on vacuuming time. The see through cannister makes it very easy to tell when its time to empty and it is very simple to remove, empty, and replace on the main unit. Would highly recommend it if you have pets or just a very active home!”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cheap Upright Vacuum
Essential Factors We Consider
When judging a cheap upright vacuum, we prioritize real-world performance over flashy features. Suction power is paramount—look for models with strong airflow ratings or proven customer feedback on picking up debris. Weight and maneuverability are critical for ease of use, especially on stairs. A bagless design with an easy-empty dust cup saves money and hassle. For homes with mixed flooring, height adjustment settings are a must. Finally, consider attachments like a crevice tool or pet tool for above-floor cleaning.
Budget Planning
The market for cheap upright vacuums is hotly contested between $50 and $150. The sweet spot for the best balance of power and durability is typically between $70 and $120. Models under $60 often sacrifice significant suction or build quality. Remember to factor in long-term costs: washable filters and bagless designs reduce ongoing expenses. A slightly higher upfront cost for a model with a better warranty (like Shark’s 5-year) can pay off in longevity.
Final Thoughts
You absolutely can find a fantastic upright vacuum without spending a fortune. The key is identifying your primary needs: is it pet hair, hard floors, or overall versatility? Our top picks show that brands like Eureka, Shark, and even Amazon Basics are delivering exceptional value. Focus on core cleaning performance—suction, ease of use, and dust containment—over unnecessary bells and whistles. A great cheap vacuum should make cleaning easier, not become a source of frustration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are cheap upright vacuums good for pet hair?
A: Yes, many are! Models like the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel and Shark Navigator Lift-Away are specifically designed with brush rolls and suction power that excel at pulling embedded pet hair from carpets and furniture. Always check reviews for mentions of pet performance.
Q: How often should I clean or replace the filter on a bagless vacuum?
A: For best performance, washable filters should be rinsed with cold water every 1-3 months (depending on use) and allowed to dry completely for 24 hours before reinserting. Pre-motor foam filters often need cleaning more frequently. Non-washable filters typically need replacing every 6-12 months.
Q: What’s the difference between an upright and a stick vacuum?
Q: Should I buy a vacuum with a HEPA filter?
A: A HEPA filter is highly recommended if you or someone in your home has allergies, asthma, or concerns about dust mites. It traps 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. Models like the Shark Navigators feature an “Anti-Allergen Complete Seal” that ensures air passes through the HEPA filter before being exhausted.
Q: How long should a cheap upright vacuum last?
A: With proper maintenance (regular filter cleaning, emptying the dust cup, checking for clogs), a good cheap upright vacuum from a reputable brand can last 3-7 years. Brands like Shark are known for durability, often backed by 5-year warranties. The Amazon Basics model, while very new on the market, shows promising build quality for daily use.
Finding the best cheap upright vacuum doesn’t mean settling for less. As our reviews show, modern budget models from trusted brands pack in powerful suction, smart designs, and features that make cleaning effortless. Whether you need a featherlight stick for hard floors, a pet hair specialist, or a versatile lift-away for your whole home, there’s an outstanding option on this list for you. Don’t overpay—choose one of these top-rated performers and get a sparkling clean home without the financial shock.
Ready to clean smarter? Click the “Check Price on Amazon” buttons above to find the best current deals on your perfect vacuum!