7 Best HEPA Vacuums for Carpet 2025

The Shark POWERDETECT AZ4002 doesn’t just clean—it thinks. With DuoClean Detect and four Intelli-Sense sensors, this powerhouse automatically ramps up suction and brushroll speed when it senses hidden dirt, making it a game-changer for deep carpet cleaning. Its ASTM F558-rated suction outpaces most uprights, and the self-cleaning brushroll ensures zero hair wrap, a major win for pet owners battling stubborn fur. If you’re tired of manually adjusting settings or missing embedded debris, this vacuum anticipates your needs and delivers a truly intelligent clean.

In real-world testing across plush and low-pile carpets, the POWERDETECT excelled at pulling up pet hair, fine dust, and even sand from deep within fibers. The ultrasonic floor detection seamlessly switches between carpet and hardwood, while Edge Detect boosts suction within two inches of baseboards—eliminating the need for a second pass. At 16.4 pounds, it’s on the heavier side, and the hose reach is limited compared to canisters, but the Powered Lift-Away pod helps extend reach for stairs and furniture. It struggles slightly on ultra-thick rugs where brushroll agitation can feel aggressive, but overall performance is best-in-class.

Compared to the budget-friendly Kenmore DU2015, the Shark AZ4002 offers a smarter, more responsive system with superior filtration and automation. While the Kenmore gets the basics right, the Shark justifies its premium positioning with sensor-driven cleaning intelligence and complete allergen sealing. It’s ideal for allergy sufferers, pet owners, and anyone who wants a set-it-and-forget-it deep clean without sacrificing power. For carpeted homes demanding top-tier performance, this is the most technologically advanced upright in the lineup.

The Shark NV360 is the workhorse of value uprights, delivering reliable, no-nonsense cleaning with a detachable lift-away pod that transforms it from floor cleaner to above-floor specialist in seconds. Its 0.9-quart dust cup and swivel steering make it ideal for whole-home cleanups, especially in homes with pets where hair pickup and easy maintenance are top priorities. The anti-allergen complete seal with HEPA traps 99.99% of dust and allergens, making it a smart pick for sensitive households—without the premium price tag.

On medium-pile carpets, the NV360 delivers solid suction and effective agitation, though it lacks the sensor-driven power boosts of the AZ4002. The brushroll shutoff is a standout feature, allowing instant transition to bare floors without scuffing. In tight corners and under furniture, the swivel head shines, but the full unit feels bulkier than newer models. It doesn’t match the deep-cleaning intensity of high-suction canisters, and the lack of onboard tool storage is a minor annoyance. Still, for daily maintenance on mixed flooring, it’s dependable and efficient.

Priced significantly below the POWERDETECT, the NV360 trades automation for simplicity and value. It’s not as smart, but it’s more than capable for most homes. Compared to the Bissell 2998, it offers a larger dust cup and more stable base, though Bissell wins on portability. The Shark NV360 is best for budget-conscious buyers who still want HEPA filtration, lift-away versatility, and proven pet hair performance—a true value king for carpeted homes.

The Eureka NEN186BL flips the script on canister vacuums by being lightweight, compact, and surprisingly powerful—a rare combo in this category. With 16kPa of suction and a stepless suction control knob, it lets you dial in the perfect power for delicate hardwoods or deep carpet cleaning, making it exceptionally adaptable. Its 3-stage sealed HEPA system captures 99.9% of particles as small as 0.3 microns, and the washable filters eliminate ongoing costs—ideal for eco-conscious or budget-aware users.

In testing, the Eureka handled low to medium-pile carpets with ease, though it struggled slightly on high-loft rugs where motorized heads perform better. The swivel steering and 17-foot retractable cord make it a dream to maneuver, especially under sofas and around furniture legs. The 2L dustbin is generous for its size, but lacks a full indicator, so you’ll need to monitor it manually. While not as quiet as premium canisters, its 70dB operation is reasonable. It’s a compact powerhouse that sacrifices nothing in usability.

When stacked against the PKUYIE SL159, the Eureka trades raw suction (32kPa) for better portability and control. The PKUYIE wins on power, but the Eureka offers smoother handling and quieter operation—perfect for smaller homes or users who prioritize ease of storage and daily use. It’s the best choice for those who want canister-level reach without the bulk, especially in apartments or homes with mixed flooring. For carpeted areas that aren’t heavily soiled, it strikes the perfect balance.

The PKUYIE SL159 is a suction monster—its 32kPa cyclonic power is the highest in this lineup, making it a beast on carpets where deep-down dirt and pet hair are constant battles. Driven by a 1600W brushless motor, it pulls debris from high-pile rugs with a single pass, and the dual H13 HEPA filtration ensures 99.97% of fine dust stays trapped. The 3.7-quart dust cup means fewer emptying stops, and the smart dust full indicator prevents clogs before they happen—no guessing games.

In real use, this canister glides smoothly thanks to flexible steering and a 68dB quiet motor, making it ideal for early-morning cleanups. It excels at under-furniture reach and transitions seamlessly from carpet to tile. However, its weight distribution can feel awkward when cleaning stairs, and the hose lacks a motorized head, limiting upholstery performance. While it dominates on floor cleaning, it’s less optimized for above-floor tasks compared to lift-away uprights. Still, for deep carpet cleaning, it’s unmatched in raw power.

Compared to the Eureka NEN186BL, the PKUYIE delivers twice the suction and a much larger bin, but at the cost of bulk and noise. It’s the go-to for large carpeted homes where deep cleaning frequency matters more than portability. While not as nimble as uprights, it offers commercial-grade power in a residential package. If maximum suction and large capacity are your priorities, this is the undisputed king—especially for pet owners with wall-to-wall carpeting.

The Kenmore DU2015 is a no-frills, high-value upright that punches above its weight with a 2-motor system and 10-foot hose—a rare combo at this price. At under 14 pounds, it’s easy to push and carry, and the swivel steering makes tight turns a breeze. Its HEPA filter traps 99.7% of dust, making it a solid choice for allergy sufferers on a budget. With four included tools, including a Pet HandiMate, it’s built for homes battling pet hair across carpets and hardwoods.

On medium carpets, the DU2015 delivers consistent cleaning, though suction isn’t as intense as higher-end models. The suction control lets you adjust for different carpet thicknesses, preserving airflow—a feature usually found on pricier units. The hose reach is excellent for an upright, but the dust cup is small (0.6 quarts), requiring frequent emptying during large cleanups. It lacks a lift-away pod, so above-floor cleaning feels less convenient. Still, for quick daily passes, it’s efficient and reliable.

Against the Shark NV360, the DU2015 wins on price and hose length, but loses on dust capacity and lift-away versatility. It’s not as powerful as the Shark POWERDETECT, but for budget-focused buyers who want HEPA filtration and pet tools, it’s a smart entry-level pick. It’s best for small to medium homes with mixed flooring where cost efficiency and basic allergen control are key. You won’t get luxury features, but you’ll get solid performance where it counts.

The Kenmore DU4080 is the lightest full-sized upright here, tipping the scales at just under 12 pounds, making it a dream for quick cleanups or users with mobility concerns. Its Lift-Up Technology lets you pop off the pod for stairs and furniture, and the 9-foot hose extends reach without strain. The 2-motor system provides strong suction for its size, and the sealed HEPA path captures 99.97% of dust—ideal for allergy sufferers who want lightweight convenience without sacrificing filtration.

On low to medium carpets, it performs admirably, though it lacks the deep agitation of heavier models. The swivel head with LED headlight helps you see dust in dark corners, and the 3-in-1 tool covers most cleaning needs. However, the dust cup is small, and the pod detachment feels less secure than Shark’s version. It’s not built for deep weekly cleans on wall-to-wall carpeting, but for daily touch-ups, it’s fast and effortless.

Compared to the Shark NV360, the DU4080 is lighter and more portable, but the Shark offers better dust capacity and stability. It’s not as powerful as the Bissell 2998, but it’s more affordable and easier to store. If you need a light, agile vacuum for a small apartment or home with minimal carpeting, this is the top choice for effortless cleaning—especially for older adults or those with limited strength.

The Bissell 2998 is a pet allergy specialist, engineered from the ground up to tackle dander, fur, and allergens with a fully sealed HEPA system that traps 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns. Its Lift-Off pod detaches in seconds, turning it into a portable powerhouse for stairs, car interiors, and furniture—where pet messes often land. The tangle-free brush roll lives up to its name, effortlessly pulling up hair without clogs, and the easy-empty dirt tank minimizes mess during disposal.

In carpet testing, it delivered strong, consistent pickup, though suction isn’t as intense as the Shark POWERDETECT or PKUYIE. The LED headlights reveal hidden debris, and the included specialized pet tools—like the motorized hand tool—make it a complete pet cleaning system. However, the dust cup is on the smaller side, and the base unit lacks swivel steering, making tight turns awkward. It’s optimized for pet-focused homes, not commercial-level cleaning.

Versus the Kenmore DU4080, the Bissell offers better allergen sealing and pet tools, but at a higher cost. It doesn’t match the Shark NV360’s dust capacity, but it wins on portability and targeted pet cleaning. For homes with shedding pets and allergy sufferers, this is the most purpose-built vacuum in the lineup—delivering clinical-level filtration with real-world usability. It’s not the most powerful, but it’s the smartest choice for pet health and air quality.