Vacuum cleaners come in two main types. These

Upright Vacuum Cleaners

These vacuum cleaners are usually much lighter than canister vacuum cleaners, and they tend to be less expensive. The upright is taller while the canister has a much wider shape. Upright vacuum cleaners have traditionally been better known for being superior for cleaning carpeted surfaces, rather than bare floors, such as wood, tile, or even concrete.

The upright is also usually more compact. This feature makes the upright much easier to store. There are also many more tools and options available in the upright. Some of these features include dirt sensors, a self-propelled option, and an on/off brush roll. They don't tend to have as many long hoses and brushes as the canister models.

Many different manufacturers make the upright. Price range varies from under $100 to over $400, on the more upscale models with all the bells and whistles. The upright comes in many different colors and styles. Some have sleek lines and swooping curves, while others are more rigid looking.

The upright also tends to be much louder than the canister models. This is probably due to the fact that the suction power has to zoom through a more narrow frame than that of the canister model. Many people get used to the louder noise of the upright and tolerate it over the canister because it's easier to maneuver on carpet.

Canister Vacuum Cleaners

The canister model has been known for decades to be much more effective on hard surfaces. That's not to say it can't pick up dirt, dust and spills on carpet. But mainly because it stands much lower to the ground, it's suction is more powerful as a whole than the upright model.

And because of its squat design, it's much quieter than the upright. That's a main reason why so many people prefer the canister to the upright. There's really nothing a person can do to muffle the louder noise of the upright. The canister also has more adaptable height adjustments. It also tends to have a much better reach and flexibility with all of its extension hoses and brushes.

It's definitely much better at handling the clean up duties on stairs and in tight spots, such as in high and low corners, and underneath tables and sofas, due to its much lower roll surface. It's this overall versatility that has made the canister model a top seller for so long. It can be stored in most closets on the bottom level, and this makes it convenient for users to simply roll and slide out without ever having to lift it off the ground.

The canister model can be heavier because of its large, round suctioning area. But the wheels on a canister model always make it quite easy to roll along any surface, including thick carpets or area rugs.