Consumer Reports Data Shows These Are The 2 Best Upright Vacuums In 2026

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Upright vacuums are the workhorses of the cleaning closet. These types of vacuums often boast powerful suction and large dust collection bins or bags that can hold copious amounts of dirt and debris. And because a corded upright vacuum isn't dependent on battery power, it won't quit before the job is done. 

If that sounds like your ideal cleaning partner, then take note that Consumer Reports names two upright vacuums as best-in-class picks: the Shark PowerDetect AZ4002 and the Kenmore BU1018. The Shark model narrowly edges out the Kenmore vacuum with a slightly higher overall score awarded by Consumer Reports, but both vacuums performed well enough to earn them a spot in the publication's list of the 9 Best Vacuums of 2026. Although these two models aren't newcomers this year, their tested performance speaks for itself and makes them worthy of consideration if your current vacuum has exceeded its useful lifespan.

Whether you have wall-to-wall carpeting, area rugs, tile floors, or hardwood, these upright vacuum cleaners are equipped for the task. Consumer Reports describes both models as being great at cleaning bare floors and good at cleaning carpets. However, it will take a bit more effort to push along the 21-pound Kenmore vacuum when compared to the lighter, 17-pound Shark PowerDetect model. You'll also likely notice a bit more noise from the Kenmore vacuum, which scored lower for this attribute than the Shark vacuum during Consumer Reports testing. Home Depot reviewers confirm that the Kenmore BU1018 is noticeably hefty but report that the noise isn't as annoying as some other budget vacuums. As an example, one reviewer says, "It's quite powerful, a bit loud, but not annoying high pitch loud like lower end vacuums. It's definitely very heavy so not a great option if you're moving it up and down stairs."

If you're trying to decide between the higher-scoring but more expensive Shark PowerDetect AZ4002 (retails for $599.99) and the less-expensive Kenmore BU1018 (retails for $369.99), consider the fact that the Shark model has a bagless dust bin that must be emptied into the garbage, especially if you want to avoid smelly vacuum cleaner odors. The Kenmore vacuum keeps dust and debris sealed in a bag but you'll need to buy replacements regularly (a 6-pack from the brand costs $24.99). Either way, regularly emptying the vacuum is key to maintaining suction power and you may not be emptying your vacuum cleaner enough, so don't dismiss the importance of this attribute.