People ask me frequently for vacuum cleaner recommendations and I consistently urge them to purchase the very humble Electrolux Eureka Sanitaire SC3683A Commercial Vac.I've used many, many vacuum brands and models over the years and for the price tag, I have yet to come across another that even comes close to matching what this little red and black machine can do.
It is hepa-filter ready and performs nearly as well as the highest-end Mieles and Bosches, yet it is lighter than most of them and far cheaper. And please, FORGET those horrendous Dysons. It's clear they were designed by a man who's never done an ounce of house cleaning in his life. When my crew or I see one of them at a client's we very nearly jump ship right then, and by the end of the day we've made sure to convince the owners to replace it with a friendlier, more capable vacuum cleaner. Quite frankly, Dyson's could double as torture devices, they are SO heavy and unwieldy, so incapable of getting into hard-to-reach nooks and crannies. It's a shame they are marketed so well.
OK, the Electrolux is not perfect. It's not as sexy as those super high-end dust busters, nor is it as quiet as they are. I also would love it if the electric cord pulled and retracted on its own with the touch of a button, and that it didn't turn over as often as it does when I turn a tight corner, but overall, you really get high performance from this machine. It's the vacuum I use in my home.
If you are determined to go higher-end than the Electrolux, please do, just keep in mind that there is no circumstance that an upright will perform better than a canister vacuum with attachments. Whichever you decide on, remember to purchase the hepa filters and vacuum bags to go along with it. And PLEASE do not buy a Dyson.
