With a united motor and suction head, upright vacuums offer a classic and recognizable design choice. Featuring a generously wide cleaning path and motorized brush, uprights are easy to use, easy to store, and particularly beneficial for cleaning thick carpets and rugs.

Canister vacuums rely on a segmented design in which the cleaning nozzle is positioned at the end of a wand. With a greater possibility for power, canisters can provide extended reach and enhanced maneuverability. Many canister vacuums are built with insulation and operate at a quieter noise level.

Quick and efficient, light-weight vacuums are ideal for attacking small, isolated areas. Many of these units are bagless and weigh less than 10 pounds, boosting portability and ease of use. With both corded and cordless models available, light-weight vacuums generally require very little storage space and are great for once-over sweeps.