When you’re shopping for the vacuum cleaner, you are going to be bombarded by brands, types, and shapes of all kinds. The most important thing to remember is that ultimately, you need a vacuum that is going to meet your needs and keep your home tidy. One type of vacuum isn’t always the best for all situations. If you’re a pet owner, you’ll want to know right away that an upright canister vacuum is probably your best option.

Top Rated Vacuums Under $200 in 2020

Interested in reading more reviews? Take a look at our selection of the best canister vacuums.

What Features to Look for

If you’ve got multiple surfaces, and want to be sure your carpet is as clean as your tile, then having a vacuum with a motorized brush head is a must. With that, you’ll also want to look for models that allow you to switch easily between the brush-spinning mode and the non-spinning mode which is ideal for hard floors. Having a carpet height adjuster is always nice as well, as some carpet is thicker than others.

Bagged Vacuums vs. Bagless

One thing that has been a thorn in the side of those who want to keep their home as clean as possible has always been changing the bag in the vacuum. These days even bagged models are much easier to deal with, and offer easy-change bags. A bagless model will save you from having to purchase and replace any bags, but also comes with the burden of replacing the internal filters.

Noise Levels

Some people are concerned about noise levels their appliances make, and rightfully so. If you have small children or pets, you’ll want to be sure to find a vacuum that isn’t too loud. You don’t want to cause extra commotion when it’s not needed!

Add-on Tools

While having great suction on the floor is one thing, most of us need a vacuum that’s adaptable and can clean a variety of surfaces and spaces. That’s where having a great set of add-on tools comes in. Basic tools that are typically included with a vacuum is a narrow-space tool, an upholstery brush, and a dusting brush. Canister vacuums typically offer the most in terms of tool versatility.

Brands To Look For

Bissell

Bissel offers a wide range of vacuums, many of which you can find at your local retailer. They range from the $60 region all the way up to about $250. Bissell has been a long-standing name in the vacuum industry and is known for producing quality home cleaning appliances.

Hoover

Hoover has been around since the early 1900’s and prides itself on being one of the most reliable brands of vacuum on the market. Hoover is owned by the same conglomerate as Dirt Devil and Oreck. Hoover offers upright vacuums, canister models, stick models, and carpet cleaning equipment.

Shark

Once upon a time, you would have a hard time flipping your TV on late at night and not seeing a Shark vacuum vacuuming up dirt, and more. These days, the brand has transformed into one that is well trusted by consumers and produces excellent quality vacuums.

Dyson

The innovators of “The Ball,” Dyson has become a favorite vacuum among American households. Initially thought to be over-priced, the rest of the market has caught up to Dyson, who produces high-end upright and stick vacuums.

What About Robot Vacuums?

Self-propelled vacuums have become increasingly popular the last several years. Everyone wants to be able to perform hands-free cleaning, and with good reason! These vacuums are great, but are really only applicable to a single level home, with few changes in flooring type. If your home fits the criteria, then getting a robotic vacuum might be a great option.

Still can’t decide on what you want? Our round-up of the best robot vacuums can help you find what you’re looking for.

Choosing the Best Model For You

Ultimately, choosing the best vacuum cleaner comes down to you and our home. If you own a small home or apartment and don’t need commercial grade power, a cordless vacuum might be right for you. You’ll want to be sure you get the right model so that you can vacuum your whole home without having to charge it again. If you’re a single-room renter, a cordless vacuum is definitely the best option.

If you’re a general neat-keeper, an upright vacuum is probably plenty of power for your needs. Most bagless, upright vacuum cleaners are going to last for several years, and allow you to easily transition from hard floors to the carpet. When you look at it from a value perspective, you are always going to get more vacuum for your money by going with a corded, upright vacuum vs. a cordless model.

If you need commercial power vacuuming ability, then a standalone canister vacuum is what you need. These vacuums simply clean better than any other models. They have high-powered motors and are sealed very well so that no dust or dirt escapes the canister. Most canister vacuums are considered to be commercial grade, which means they are also nearly indestructible, and definitely offer the most longevity out of all vacuum cleaner types.

Conclusion

We hope that this guide has helped empower your vacuum buying decision! When it comes time to purchase, take a look at our list, and choose the one that has all of the features you need. We chose the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Professional Vacuum as our number one vacuum of choice, and think you’ll find it stands up to just about any challenge your home might throw at it. It comes from a great, quality brand that consumers trust, and has all the attachments that will make your life easier. Stop dealing with an old worn-out vacuum, and purchase the best vacuum cleaner for your home today!