Eureka NEU185 PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum

For dust and everyday dirt, yes. The NEU185 pulls up a surprising amount for a budget upright, and the 2.6 L cup holds a fair load between empties. It isn't consistent on every unit, though: one managed only light crumbs and dust, so treat it as a routine-cleaning machine first.

Easy. At 10 lb the NEU185 is light for an upright, and it turns into tight spots without much effort. One found it a little heavier than expected but solid. Swivel steering helps it get around chair legs and table bases without lifting the whole machine.

Yes, on the floors it's built for. The NEU185 lifts pet hair and dust well from hardwood, area rugs and low-pile carpet. Five height settings let you match the head to the pile, so drop it low for bare floors and raise it for thicker rugs.

In places, yes. The body is mostly plastic and it feels that way, a point several make. Some accept it as the trade-off for keeping the upright light and inexpensive. If you're rough with your vacuum or bump it down stairs, that plastic is the part to be careful with.

Yes, with the hose. A quick-release handle connects to a stretch hose, so you can reach stairs, upholstery and ceiling fans without hauling the upright up each step. The protective wheels also keep it from scratching hardwood on the way there.