We used a meter with an “A-weighted” frequency bias, which emphasizes the effect of bothersome high-pitch sounds and is the standard method to measure noise (rather than something like music). We also looked at consumer satisfaction numbers from Consumer Reports and J.D. Power, along with retailer customer reviews and YouTube reviews, to pick three more competing designs that could fit into tighter budgets along with the mid-range Kenmore and Shark vacuums. For those looking at budget vacuums but are still in need of dust filtration, the Eureka – Mighty Mite Pet Lover takes a popular utility vacuum design and literally clips an extra filter to the back. Liam McCabe is a former senior staff writer for Wirecutter, and has covered the wild world of appliances since 2011.
This Shark model is a little bulky for a handheld vacuum, but we think the extra-large dust bin makes it worth it. The attachments are what make this vacuum really shine, but there’s no included storage for them, so you’ll need to repurpose a box or bin to make sure you don’t lose them. Overall, we said this vacuum’s performance was very impressive given its size and single suction setting.
Because the weight is distributed between the canister itself and the powerhead, they’re easier to move around than upright vacuums. All of the cleaning heads made for carpets use no-stretch geared belts to drive the brush rolls, so they maintain their spin speed and cleaning ability over time. If they do clog (which can happen to any vacuum of any type), Miele vacuums come apart at all the major joints, without needing any tools.
It also does a decent job on hair, and the self-cleaning brushroll does help to limit hair tangle but will not completely eliminate it. Edge cleaning and handling large debris were weaker areas for the vacuum. The canister also houses a 25 ft retractable power cord, three filters, and the dust canister. 25 ft is also a decent length for a canister vacuum (perhaps not shark canister vacuum for an upright). There’s a reason Shark vacuums are a top buy—the brand’s offerings come with powerful suction, fully-sealed HEPA filtration systems, and comprehensive warranties, all at affordable prices. Plus, in recent years, the brand has come toe-to-toe with its more expensive rival, Dyson, to release innovative designs for robot vacuums and handheld models.
As long as your shoulder can handle the Lift-Around’s six pound weight, it’s quite maneuverable. There’s no wheeled canister to drag around — just a light vacuum hanging on a shoulder strap. It’s expected to go on sale in a few weeks through various channels, including Shark’s tried-and-true infomercials. Different retailers will have it in different configurations — some will have more floor tools at a higher price tag — but the base MSRP is $139. A loud vacuum can be difficult to deal with for long cleaning sessions. In addition, the unit has intuitive controls and it is easy to maintain.
He is a professional engineer and uses his review platforms to help consumers determine which vacuum cleaners are the best for their cleaning needs. Follow Nigel on facebook or view his vacuum review videos on the Vacuum Cleaner Advisor YouTube Channel. FILTRATIONThe vacuum has three pre-motor filters – one foam, one felt, and one metal mesh.
She’s an experienced product researcher with years of experience in covering large and small appliances. For this piece, she used in-depth research and evaluations on features, cleaning modes, and accessories, in addition to the firsthand insights from our product testers at home and in The Lab, to inform her writing. Puisis also conducted an interview with Danielle Lessing, VP of Global Product Development at SharkNinja, to learn more about the features of Shark vacuums. With the Shark Navigator Lift-Away guaranteed to last five years on warranty alone, the math proves that paying a little more for a vacuum cleaner will almost always save you money over time. The dustbin got permanently dirty after just a few months of use, sort of like a foggy wine glass that hasn’t been cleaned properly in a while.