10 Best Lightweight Upright Vacuums 2025 in the United States

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a strong contender in the lightweight upright vacuum category, particularly for pet owners and those looking for effective allergen control. Weighing in at 13.7 pounds, it’s relatively easy to maneuver, especially with its swivel steering feature that allows you to navigate furniture and tight spaces with ease. The lift-away functionality is a standout, enabling you to detach the pod for cleaning stairs and other above-floor areas without much hassle. This can be very handy for those who need flexibility in their cleaning routine.

The vacuum is equipped with a HEPA filter and an anti-allergen complete seal, which effectively traps 99.9% of dust and allergens. This is a significant advantage for allergy sufferers, making it a solid choice for maintaining cleaner indoor air quality. Additionally, the extra-large dust cup (0.87 liters) is a plus, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying, which is especially useful during heavy cleaning tasks.

In terms of performance, the brush roll shutoff feature allows you to switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentler bare floor cleaning, providing versatility across different surfaces. The included attachments, such as the dusting brush and crevice tool, enhance its usability for detailed cleaning. However, there are some drawbacks. While the vacuum is effective, its corded design may limit mobility compared to cordless options, particularly in larger spaces. Moreover, with a noise level of 80 dB, it may be quite loud during operation, which could be a concern for some users. Finally, while it excels with pet hair, those with larger homes or extensive carpeting might find it slightly heavy to push over long periods.

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV356E is a robust vacuum that excels in pet hair removal and allergen filtration, making it a great choice for households with pets or allergy concerns.

The Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Vacuum is a solid choice for those looking for a lightweight vacuum that excels at picking up pet hair. Weighing in at just 12.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry around the house and maneuver around furniture, thanks to its swivel steering feature. The multi-cyclonic cleaning system enhances its suction power, making it effective for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors alike. Additionally, the vacuum comes with specialized pet tools, which are a big plus for pet owners. These tools help tackle pet hair effectively, ensuring that your home remains clean and fur-free.

On the downside, the dustbin capacity is 1 liter, which might require frequent emptying, especially in homes with multiple pets. The corded design limits mobility compared to cordless options, so you'll need to manage the cord while vacuuming. Lastly, some users might find the noise level a bit higher than expected, which could be a consideration for those with small children or pets that are easily startled.

The Bissell 2252 is a great fit for pet owners seeking a lightweight and effective vacuum. It combines ease of use with specialized features, though you should be prepared to manage its limitations regarding dustbin capacity and corded design.

The Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright Vacuum is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile and efficient cleaning solution, especially pet owners. Weighing in as a lightweight upright vacuum, it offers a suitable balance between ease of use and powerful performance. The 2-in-1 Powered Lift-Away feature is a standout, allowing users to detach the pod for cleaning under furniture and in hard-to-reach areas, all while the brushroll stays active, ensuring thorough cleaning. The advanced swivel steering enhances maneuverability, making it easier to navigate tight spaces around your home.

One of the significant strengths of this vacuum is its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal combined with a HEPA filter, which captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, making it ideal for allergy sufferers. The large 0.88-quart dust cup is convenient for longer cleaning sessions, although it might still require frequent emptying if you have a lot of debris, especially pet hair. The inclusion of features like LED headlights helps illuminate hidden dirt, which is particularly useful in dimly lit areas.

Being corded may be a drawback for those who prefer the freedom of cordless vacuuming. Additionally, while the included attachments like the Pet Power Brush and upholstery tool are beneficial for targeted cleaning, some might find them cumbersome if they prefer a vacuum with fewer accessories. The Shark NV752 stands out for its cleaning power, advanced features, and pet-friendly design, making it a solid option for those who need a dependable vacuum for various surfaces. Users looking for cordless convenience may want to explore other options.