Finding the best vacuum cleaner for carpet and hardwood floors can feel overwhelming with so many models promising powerful suction and “all-floor” performance.
The truth is, not every vacuum handles the challenge of switching from plush carpets to delicate hardwood without compromises.
The ideal choice should combine strong suction with smart controls, a brush roll that can be turned off to protect hardwood, and the right floor heads for every surface.
Whether you’re battling pet hair, dust, or everyday debris, the right vacuum can make cleaning easier and more effective.
In this guide, we’ll break down what to look for and compare top-rated options to help you make the smartest choice for your home.
Comparison Table of Our Top Picks
| Product Name | Rank (Category) | Why It Works on Both Carpet & Hardwood | Price |
| Shark Stratos Upright (AZ3002) | Best Overall (Upright / Multi-surface) | Dual rollers (one agitates carpet + one soft roller for bare floors), strong suction, self-cleaning brushroll, Lift-Away canister option. | Check The Price |
| Dyson V15 Detect | Best Cordless (High-Performance) | Soft roller head for hardwood + motorized bar for carpets, laser dust detection, auto suction adjust. | Check The Price |
| Miele Classic C1 | Best Canister / Best for Hardwood-first Homes | Adjustable suction + parquet brush protects hardwood, turbo/power head handles carpets. | Check The Price |
| SEBO K3 | Best Premium Canister / Best for Durability & Pets | Powerhead for carpets + parquet brush for hardwood, commercial-grade build, hospital-grade filtration. | Check The Price |
| Shark Navigator NV360 | Best Budget / Best Value Multi-surface | Brushroll on/off & Lift-Away pod allow hardwood safety + good carpet suction. | Check The Price |
| Dyson Ball Animal 3 | Best for Pets (Carpets + Hard Floors) | Detangling brushroll, 3 cleaning modes, powerful suction, whole-machine filtration. | Check The Price |
| Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet | Best Affordable Upright | Multi-floor adjustment, brushroll settings for hardwood, strong carpet cleaning suction. | Check The Price |
7 Best Vacuum Cleaners for Carpet and Hardwood Floors
Here are the 7 best vacuums for carpet and hardwood floors with details:
1. Shark Stratos Upright Vacuum (AZ3002)– Best Overall
If you’re looking for a vacuum that excels on both carpets and hardwood floors, the Shark Stratos Upright (AZ3002) is hard to beat. With powerful suction, versatile design, and thoughtful features, it makes cleaning effortless. Users consistently praise its ability to remove dirt, pet hair, and debris even where other vacuums fail. The dual brushroll system engages both carpets and hard floors, delivering a deep clean every time while keeping hair from wrapping around the brushes.
Key Features
- DuoClean PowerFins HairPro Technology: Dual brushrolls capture debris on carpets and hard floors, preventing hair wrap.
- Odor Neutralizer: Keeps your home smelling fresh while vacuuming.
- Lift-Away Mode: Detachable canister for stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach areas.
- Versatile Attachments: Crevice tool, mini turbo brush, and upholstery tool included.
- Powerful Suction: Handles crumbs, dust, pet hair, and deeply embedded dirt.
User Experience
Professional cleaners and homeowners alike rave about the Stratos. Users report that it lifts pet hair from carpets that other vacuums leave behind, and hardwood floors look immaculate after just one pass. The powered Lift-Away function allows for easy cleaning under furniture, while the dual brushroll system effortlessly transitions from thick carpet to tile or wood. Even with its 17-pound weight, it glides smoothly thanks to self-propelling rollers. Cleaning the vacuum is simple, with hair collected in the top dust cup, so no messy tangles in the brushroll.
What I Like
- Powerful suction on all floor types.
- Hair collects in top dust cup—easy maintenance.
- Swivels and maneuvers easily under furniture.
- Attachments simplify stairs and tight spaces.
What I Don’t Like
- Slightly heavy at 17 pounds.
- Cord could be longer for larger homes.
- Narrower cleaning head can slow large-area cleaning.
Final Verdict
The Shark Stratos Upright (AZ3002) is the ultimate choice for anyone seeking the best vacuum for carpets and hardwood floors. It delivers unmatched suction, pet-hair management, and versatility, making cleaning quick and satisfying. Minor drawbacks like weight and cord length are far outweighed by its performance—this vacuum truly leaves floors cleaner than most others on the market.
2. Dyson V15 Detect
The Dyson V15 Detect is a powerhouse cordless vacuum designed to deliver exceptional performance across all floor types. Its advanced cleaner heads—Digital Motorbar™ for carpets and Fluffy Optic™ for hard floors—ensure deep cleaning without switching tools.
On carpets, it lifts embedded dirt and pet hair effortlessly, while the laser-illuminated soft roller reveals fine dust on hardwood floors, making invisible debris visible and satisfying to clean.
Intelligent auto mode adjusts suction based on floor type and detected dirt, optimizing both cleaning efficiency and battery life. This combination of power, precision, and smart technology makes it one of the best choices for homes with mixed flooring.
Key Features
- Dual Cleaner Heads: Digital Motorbar™ for carpets, Fluffy Optic™ with laser for hard floors.
- Particle Sensor & LCD Display: Tracks particle size and quantity in real-time.
- Auto Mode: Adjusts suction based on floor type and debris for optimal performance.
- Anti-Hair Tangle Technology: Conical brush rolls and polycarbonate teeth reduce hair wrap.
- Removable Battery: Can be swapped or replaced, extending runtime flexibility.
- Advanced Filtration: Captures 99.99% of particles down to 0.3 microns.
User Experience
Users love the V15 Detect for transforming everyday cleaning. Many highlight the laser and particle counter as game-changing features for spotting dirt otherwise missed. The vacuum is praised for deep-cleaning carpets and picking up pet hair without tangles.
While battery life on Boost mode can feel limited for larger homes, the removable battery and intelligent auto mode compensate effectively. Lightweight and maneuverable, it’s convenient for stairs and tight spaces, though longer sessions may be slightly tiring due to the top-heavy design.
What I Like
- Exceptional suction on both carpet and hard floors.
- Laser guidance makes hard floor cleaning satisfying and precise.
- Intelligent auto mode optimizes power and battery use.
- Anti-hair wrap design prevents brush tangling.
What I Don’t Like
- Top-heavy design can cause fatigue with prolonged use.
- The battery lasts 30–45 minutes on higher power, which may require recharging for large areas.
Final Verdict
The Dyson V15 Detect is a top-tier cordless vacuum that excels on carpets and hardwood floors alike. Combining innovative features, unmatched suction, and user-friendly design, it offers a truly intelligent cleaning experience. Despite the high price, it’s an excellent investment for anyone who wants a powerful, versatile, and convenient vacuum.
3. Miele Classic C1 Review: A Reliable Vacuum for Hard Floors and Low-Pile Carpets
If you’re in the market for a vacuum that combines German engineering, powerful suction, and long-term reliability, the Miele Classic C1 deserves serious consideration. Designed for homes with hard floors and low-pile carpets, this bagged canister vacuum is compact, lightweight, and surprisingly versatile.
The Classic C1 shines on hard floors and low-pile rugs thanks to its strong suction power and specialized floor heads.
Unlike vacuums with spinning rollers that can just shuffle dirt around, this model relies on consistent, powerful suction that effortlessly lifts dirt, dust, pet hair, and even embedded debris.
The included SBD 365-3 combination floorhead is gentle on hardwood but effective enough to clean rugs without snagging or dragging.
Key Features
- 6 Suction Settings: Easily adjust the power based on your flooring and cleaning needs.
- AirClean 3-Stage Filtration: Genuine Miele FilterBag, motor protection filter, and AirClean exhaust filter ensure cleaner air as you vacuum.
- Compact & Maneuverable: Light 12-pound design with clever storage options, including vertical or horizontal placement.
- Included Accessories: Crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool make it easy to clean corners, shelves, and furniture.
- Durability: Miele covers the motor for seven years, a testament to their build quality.
User Experience
Owners consistently praise the C1 for its quiet operation, ease of use, and long-lasting performance. The vacuum glides effortlessly around furniture, under beds, and even up and down stairs. Users highlight that the bagged system keeps dust contained, making it ideal for allergy sufferers or pet owners. Its compact wand extends easily, and the adjustable suction control prevents area rugs from being dragged or lifted.
What I Like
- Incredible suction on hard floors and low-pile rugs.
- Lightweight, quiet, and easy to maneuver.
- AirClean filtration keeps indoor air fresh.
- Long-lasting, with minimal maintenance.
What I Don’t Like
- Not ideal for high-pile carpets.
- Cord length may require changing outlets in larger homes.
- Miele FilterBags can be costly and include plastic components.
Final Verdict
The Miele Classic C1 is a premium, reliable, and highly effective vacuum. While it’s optimized for hard floors and low-pile rugs rather than plush carpets, its suction power, filtration system, and durable design make it an excellent investment. For households with pets, allergies, or lots of hard flooring, the C1 offers outstanding performance that will last for years.
4. SEBO K3 Premium Review: The Ultimate Vacuum for Durability, Pets, and All Floors
If you’re looking for a vacuum that combines durability, powerful suction, and versatility, the SEBO K3 Premium stands out as our premium pick. Engineered in Germany with meticulous attention to detail, this compact canister vacuum is designed to last for years. With its 7-year motor warranty and replaceable parts, it’s an investment in long-term performance, making it ideal for households with pets or heavy-duty cleaning needs.
Best for Pets and Durability
The K3 Premium is particularly impressive for pet owners. Its ET-1 electric powerhead effortlessly tackles pet hair, dirt, and debris on carpets and area rugs, while the Parquet Floor Brush ensures delicate hard floors are cleaned without scratches. Users consistently praise its ability to manage hair from multiple pets without clogging or losing suction. The compact 12-pound design makes it light enough to maneuver while still providing professional-grade suction.
Perfect for Carpets and Hard Floors
What sets the SEBO K3 apart is its adaptability. The ET-1 powerhead cleans deep into carpets, even thick or low-pile rugs, and features an easily removable brush roller for maintenance. Switch to the Parquet Floor Brush, and hardwood, laminate, and tile surfaces are polished clean, without the risk of damage. Its low-profile design allows it to slide under furniture with ease, making it ideal for full-home cleaning.
Key Features
- Dual motors: One for suction, one for the brush roll.
- 37-foot operating radius: 25-foot power cord + 7-foot crush-proof hose.
- Dual-control handle: Adjust suction and powerhead on-the-go.
- S-Class filtration: Hospital-grade air quality; captures 99.97% of particles.
- Airbelt bumper: Protects furniture while dispersing exhaust air.
User Experience
Users rave about its quiet operation, lightweight body, and long-lasting performance. Pet owners particularly love the ease of cleaning hair without frequent bag changes. The powerhead glides smoothly on carpets, while the parquet brush leaves hard floors spotless.
What I Like
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
- Excellent for pet hair and deep cleaning
- Versatile on both carpets and hardwood floors
- Easy to maintain with replaceable parts
- Lightweight and maneuverable
What I Don’t Like
- Smaller bag may require more frequent emptying in high-traffic homes with pets
- Premium price point
Final Verdict
The SEBO K3 Premium is a highly durable, versatile vacuum that excels on carpets, hardwood, and pet messes. It’s quiet, powerful, and thoughtfully designed for longevity, making it a smart choice for anyone seeking a reliable, high-performance vacuum. If you’re willing to invest upfront, this machine delivers years of effortless cleaning and exceptional results.
5. Shark Navigator NV360 Review – Best-Value Pick for Carpet & Hardwood
If you’re looking for a powerful, reliable vacuum that doesn’t break the bank, the Shark Navigator NV360 stands out as our best-value pick. Its combination of strong suction, lightweight design, and versatile functionality makes it a perfect choice for homes with a mix of carpets and hardwood floors. The NV360’s brush roll adapts seamlessly between surfaces, ensuring efficient debris pickup on thick carpets while remaining gentle on delicate hard floors.
Key Features
- Powerful Suction: Removes dirt, dust, and pet hair effortlessly.
- Lightweight & Maneuverable: Easy to push around furniture and up stairs.
- Lift-Away Functionality: Converts into a portable pod for stairs, upholstery, and hard-to-reach areas.
- Large Dust Cup: Minimizes trips to empty and keeps cleaning uninterrupted.
- Washable HEPA & Pre-Filters: Simple maintenance for long-term performance.
- Versatile Attachments: Includes crevice tool, upholstery brush, and hose for multi-surface cleaning.
User Experience
Setting up the NV360 is straightforward—its click-and-lock wand and pod make assembly a breeze. The 24-foot cord gives you plenty of reach without constantly switching outlets, and the lightweight design means you won’t strain your arms during extended cleaning sessions. On carpets, the rolling brush lifts embedded dirt, while on hardwood, the brush can be turned off to protect floors from scratches. The lift-away pod is particularly handy for cleaning stairs, furniture, and tight corners.
What I Like
- Excellent suction that picks up everything from dust to pet hair.
- Large, easy-to-empty dust bin.
- Washable HEPA filters that maintain strong airflow.
- Long cord and lightweight build make cleaning more convenient.
- Lift-away functionality adds versatility.
What I Don’t Like
- Suction can be a bit strong for small, lightweight rugs.
- The on/off switch is at the base rather than on the handle, which can be inconvenient.
- Limited clearance under low furniture.
Final Verdict
The Shark Navigator NV360 is an outstanding vacuum for the price. Its powerful suction, adaptability to both carpet and hardwood floors, and convenient lift-away feature make it perfect for households with pets or mixed flooring. While it has a few minor drawbacks—like its tall design and base-mounted switch—the performance and value it delivers more than compensate. For anyone seeking an affordable, high-performing vacuum, the NV360 is a solid choice that won’t disappoint.
6. Dyson Ball Animal 3– Powerful, Pet-Friendly, and Built to Last
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 strikes the perfect balance between raw cleaning power, versatility, and premium design, making it one of the best-value upright vacuums for busy homes. Whether you have plush carpets or hardwood floors, this vacuum excels.
Its adjustable gates and motorized brush ensure smooth gliding over thick rugs while delivering precise suction for hard surfaces. Pet owners will especially appreciate its tangle-free hair removal system and HEPA filtration, keeping floors and air cleaner than ever.
Key Features
- Dyson Ball Technology: Effortless steering and precise maneuverability.
- Radial Root Cyclone Suction: High airflow with no loss of power across carpets or hard floors.
- Active Hair Removal: Integrated comb reduces hair wrap on the brush bar.
- Three Cleaning Modes: Adjustable suction for deep carpets, low-pile rugs, and hard floors.
- Long Reach: 35-ft cord plus 15-ft hose for 50-ft cleaning range.
- Hygienic Bin Emptying: Large, easy-to-empty dustbin with no-contact disposal.
- Attachments: Combination tool, stair tool, and pet grooming accessory included.
User Experience
Owners rave about the Dyson Ball Animal 3’s sheer suction power and versatility. Thick carpets glide effortlessly under the vacuum, while hardwood floors remain spotless without scattering dust. The vacuum handles pet hair like a pro; one user reported their Golden Retriever’s shedding no longer spreads around the house. The ball mechanism allows tight turns without the awkward sway seen in older models, and the long hose and wand make stairs and upholstery a breeze.
What I Like
- Excellent suction and deep-clean performance on all surfaces
- Tangle-free hair removal keeps maintenance minimal
- Long cord and hose reach for large homes
- HEPA filtration for allergy sufferers
- Durable, easy-to-empty bin
What I Don’t Like
- Heavier than some uprights, requiring a bit of effort
- Plastic parts feel fragile at points
- Smaller dustbin requires more frequent emptying
- Some attachments lack dedicated storage
Final Verdict
The Dyson Ball Animal 3 is a top-tier upright vacuum that justifies its premium price. It’s ideal for pet owners, carpeted homes, and anyone who wants a reliable, powerful vacuum that lasts for years. Its combination of suction, maneuverability, and pet-friendly features makes it one of the best investments for a clean, allergen-free home.
7. Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet Review – The Best Affordable Upright Vacuum
If you’re hunting for a powerful upright vacuum that delivers big performance without breaking the bank, the Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet is your best bet.
It’s priced well below premium models but includes features that let it compete — especially on carpet, where its WindTunnel 3 suction lifts embedded dirt and pet hair, and on hardwood, where the ability to turn off the brush or raise height settings prevents damage and scatter.
Users report it doing great work on rugs and hardwood floors alike — cleaning pet hair, embedded grime, and surface debris, with fewer passes needed thanks to its strong motor and well-designed brush roll.
Key Features
- WindTunnel 3 Suction + 13 Cyclones for steady strong airflow.
- QuickPass Brush Roll that cleans with fewer back-and-forth passes.
- Height Adjustment & Brush-off function, so you can protect hardwood floors by disabling or raising the brush.
- Long Reach Tools & Hose: 30-foot cord plus wand & hose for stairs, upholstery, and high corners.
- Pet Turbo Tool, Crevice Tool, Telescoping Wand, Pivoting Dusting Tool included.
- Odor-trapping HEPA Filtration and media filters to keep dust and allergens contained.
User Experience
Putting it all together, users say assembly is fast — not much to do before you start vacuuming. The hose and wand reach high areas without stretching or awkward handling. With two long-haired dogs, people see very little hair left behind, and the bin fills up visibly, which is satisfying. When used on carpets, it “fluffs up” piles and picks up dirt others leave behind; on hardwood, turning off the brush or using appropriate height settings yields clean, non-scratch results. The vac is heavier than minimal uprights, and somewhat noisy, but most users find those trade-offs acceptable given its power and price.
What I Like
- Impressive suction power that handles pet hair, dirt, and embedded debris.
- Great value for money — many features of higher-end uprights present.
- Versatile tools and long cord/hose reach.
- Effective filtration and less dust escape.
- Brush roll control to protect hardwood floors.
What I Don’t Like
- Weight is noticeable — pushing on thick carpet or moving around can fatigue.
- The noise level is louder than minimal or cordless vacuums.
- The bin isn’t enormous, so frequent emptying during heavy usage (pets, big carpets).
- Some parts plastic, hose may feel stiff when full stretch, attachments few compared to premium models.
Final Verdict
If you want an upright vacuum that works well on both carpet and hardwood, excels at pet hair cleanup, and doesn’t cost a premium, the Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet hits a sweet spot. It isn’t flawless — heavy, somewhat noisy, and with some trade-offs — but for its price you get tremendous suction, strong tools, and versatility. For households with pets, mixed surfaces, and a desire for good performance without breaking the bank, this vacuum delivers. A smart, affordable investment.
What to Consider Before Buying a Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hardwood Floors
If your home has both carpets and hardwood floors, choosing the right vacuum cleaner requires more than just picking the strongest suction. You’ll need a machine that adapts to different surfaces without damaging them. Here are the most important factors to consider.
Suction Power and Cleaning Control
Strong suction is non-negotiable for deep carpet cleaning, but too much power on hardwood can scatter debris or scratch surfaces.
- Carpets: Look for vacuums with high airflow and technologies like cyclonic suction or multi-channel airflow. Motorized or agitating brush heads are best for pulling out embedded dirt and pet hair.
- Hardwood: Adjustable suction modes are essential so you can reduce power on delicate flooring, preventing scuffs or blowback.
Brush Roll Control
The brush roll (also known as a beater bar) is your carpet’s best friend but hardwood’s worst enemy if used incorrectly.
- On/Off Switch: Ensure the vacuum has a brush roll you can completely shut off for hardwood to avoid scratches.
- Soft Rollers: Some models include soft roller heads designed specifically for hard floors, which pick up fine dust without damage.
Height Adjustment
Carpet pile varies from thick shag to thin low-pile rugs. A good vacuum should adapt.
- Manual Height Adjustment: Lets you raise the brush roll for thick carpets or lower it for thin rugs.
- Automatic Adjustment: Premium models detect floor type and adjust height automatically.
- Hardwood Mode: Ideally, you should be able to raise or completely disable the brush when moving onto hardwood.
Floor Heads for Every Surface
The right cleaning head makes a big difference.
- Carpet: Motorized or agitating heads dig into fibers for deep cleaning.
- Hardwood: Smooth, flat heads or soft rollers are best to capture dust and crumbs while protecting surfaces.
Filtration and Dust Containment
Carpets tend to trap allergens, so strong filtration is a must.
- HEPA Filtration: Captures fine dust, pet dander, and allergens, making it ideal for households with allergies or pets.
- Sealed Systems: Prevent dust from leaking back into the air.
- Bagged vs. Bagless: Bagged models are cleaner to empty and better for allergies, while bagless designs are more convenient and cost-efficient.
Weight and Maneuverability
- Uprights: Offer strong suction and large dustbins but can feel heavy, especially on stairs.
- Canisters and Sticks: Easier to maneuver around furniture and more versatile for mixed flooring.
- Swivel Steering: Helps navigate tight corners on hardwood without scuffing.
Price vs. Value
- Premium Models (Dyson, Miele, SEBO): Offer advanced automatic adjustments, sealed filtration, and long lifespans.
- Mid-Range Options (Shark, Hoover): Deliver strong performance, brush roll shutoff, and useful attachments at a more affordable price.
Conclusion
From the Dyson Ball Animal 3 with its anti-hair-tangle head, to the versatile Shark HV322 and HV301, and the budget-friendly Hoover WindTunnel 3 Max Performance Pet, these are the top vacuums for carpet and hardwood floors in 2025.
Each model combines strong suction, adjustable brush rolls, HEPA filtration, and floor-friendly designs to glide effortlessly across both surfaces. Perfect for pet owners, families, or anyone seeking a spotless home, these vacuums make cleaning faster, easier, and more efficient.
Pick the one that fits your needs, and enjoy pristine floors without compromise—every room, every day.
Sohel Rana is an expert writer (Of course, the owner and founder of this blog) on plumbing, HVAC, and appliance repair & troubleshooting. Since 2020, he has written on these specific topics, though his writing journey began in 2018.