Canister vacuum cleaners have their own merits over other types of vacuum, such as upright. They have traditionally been ideal for hard surface floors (tile, wood, stone), and low pile carpet or rugs. However, because of technological advancement, there are now models out there that can deal with thick carpets.

Canister models provide increased mobility over other types as well. You will be able to reach under low profile furniture and hard to reach areas as you won’t be blocked by a large vacuum body in front of you. Additionally, they tend to be quieter than other designs. This proves great if you live in close quarters or in an apartment complex with thin walls. Lastly, they typically come equipped with more tools — crevice nozzle, upholstery brush, and sometimes even a mechanized brush. All these added tools will make your machine very versatile and able to clean efficiently. With this said, here are the best models that won’t cost you more than $600.

BEST HEPA CANISTER VACUUM CLEANER

You might have heard or read that bagged vacuum cleaners are the last thing you must buy if you’re an allergic person. This is not at all true, because there are bagged vacuums that include an easy bag removal feature. This can protect the user from exposure to any of the bag’s contents. Moreover, there are high-efficiency HEPA replacement bags now available in the market in case the vacuum doesn’t feature the aforementioned protection. With that said, the best one under this category is the Electrolux Ergospace EL4103A. This model is the best choice if size and storage also matter, it is lightweight and compact.

One of its highlights is its adjustable floor nozzle that lets you switch from cleaning low-level carpets to hard floors. It also has a carpet turbo nozzle that allows you to clean low to medium height carpets and area rugs. Its 3-in-1 combination tools are a great addition as well; they can be adjusted to clean crevices, stairs, and flat surfaces. The EL4103A has a cord rewind for its 21-ft cord and has a hose wrap system o easily store the canister and hose together.

BEST BAGGED CANISTER VACUUM CLEANER

A top-of-the-line vacuum cleaner for small apartments with hard floors is the Bissell 1161 Deluxe Canister Vacuum. This vacuum weighs only 9.1 pounds making it easier to clean a large area. Easy handling does not only come with its weight but also with its compact size, which helps pretty well if you have limited storage.

The Bissell 1161 is equipped with wheels for non-straining maneuverability. These wheels are made up of rubber and thread to prevent living scratches and marks on delicate floors. The brush used by the machine is powerful enough to clean well but soft enough to be gentle on bare flooring. Suction power is not a disappointment either. Indeed, for less the price, this vacuum gives more than what you would have to pay for.

BEST COMMERCIAL CANISTER VACUUM CLEANER

The McCulloch MC-1275 Heavy-Duty Steam is the toughest vacuum cleaner we’ve ever seen work. It doesn’t only tackle most floor surfaces, but also deals with kitchen appliances. This is particularly very helpful for a big house – from the main dining areas to the kitchen and living room. There’s no need to buy separate vacuum cleaners for each of them. With the use of ordinary water heated to over 200 degrees Fahrenheit, an array of attachments, and strong steam power, it can clean up even the greasiest barbecue grills and countertops. Read a review of other cleaning tips. 

Included in the unit is a steam mop that handles your delicate restaurant floors, may they be wood, ceramic tiles and/or laminate. Moreover, this mop can be attached with microfiber pads (which are also included in the box) that are used for removing stains and scuffs from bare floors. If the pads can’t do it, the nylon utility brushes will fill in, providing extra scrubbing power for tougher dirt and stains. They are washable and reusable. The McCulloch MC-1275 comes with extension wands as well that are double-purpose: they can be used for mopping and for cleaning hard-to-reach places like those above your head. There’s a squeegee for mirrors, windows, and other glass surfaces. Lastly, there are the scrub pad and the brass utility brush for removing stuck-on grease and grime on ovens and grills.