Are Dyson Vacuums Really Best?

GREG HOLCH, House & Home senior editor

Dyson is the big player among bagless vacuums, which have a removable dustbin instead of a bag. Although Dyson vacuums are twice as expensive as some competing vacuum cleaners, they routinely get high ratings in reviews and from owners. Experts say overall durability and ease of use is improving with the latest models.

Two professional reviewers tested Dyson's claims to have the best suction, and another reviewer tests Dyson vacuums' ability to pick up pet hair from carpet. None found that Dyson held a big performance advantage over other brands. However, hundreds of owner-written reviews highly rate most Dyson vacuums. Although the positive reviews are sprinkled with complaints about heavy weight, awkward controls, hard-to-find replacement parts and breakdowns, most owners say the extra cost is worth it. The bottom line? You can still get a good vacuum for less, but owner satisfaction for Dyson vacuums is through the roof.