SEBO X4 Review

What the reviewers like:
SEBO vacuums are universally applauded by owners and experts for their solid construction, reliability and power. The SEBO X4 is said to be particularly useful for picking up pet hair. Reviews commend the SEBO X4 for its allergen control (although experts are mixed on this aspect).

What the reviewers don't like:
Reviewers are mixed on whether or not the SEBO X4 has a big advantage for allergy sufferers since tests aren't conclusive on how well it controls emissions. Most say it's fine for daily vacuuming, but it's very expensive.

SEBO X4 review highlights

Most reviewers say SEBO Automatic X-Series vacuum cleaners (including the SEBO X4 and X5) are among the best vacuums on the market for people with allergies or asthma. However, one reliable source, Which.co.uk, claims these vacuums (or at least the versions sold in Great Britain) have poor allergen retention. In particular, the SEBO X4 has dual fans for extra suction and uses less power than most other vacuums, making it less costly to run. However, while SEBO vacuums appear to be a good choice for those with severe allergies, they may be a bit pricey for most users.

We found the most comparative review of the SEBO X4 upright vacuum cleaner at Consumer Reports, which includes the X4 in its recent, extensive roundup. The SEBO upright is also tested by editors at Which.co.uk, a British publication that conducts detailed product testing. In addition, the SEBO X4 is reviewed, though not compared with other models, by The Green Guide and AllergyBuyersClub.com, and a dozen or so owners post their experiences on Epinions.

Also see full report: Vacuum Cleaners

*In order of credibility (see our Ratings Criteria).

1. Consumer Reports
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Vacuums: Top Picks for Pet Hair
Editors of Consumer Reports
Mar. 2007

Consumer Reports includes the SEBO X4 in its test of dozens of upright vacuums. Each model undergoes a variety of torture tests, then given an overall rating and ranking.

2. Which.co.uk
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Vacuum Cleaners
Editors of Which.co.uk
Feb. 2007

This British consumer publication tests various vacuums, including the SEBO X4, which editors say is effective at dealing with pet hair, but offers only adequate performance on carpeting and hard floors. Also, the SEBO X4 is not recommended for allergy sufferers, thanks to its sub-par allergen retention.

3. The Green Guide
Ventilating, Vacuuming, & Filtering Out Allergens
Emily Main

In this article, Emily Main discusses HEPA filters and allergen source control, and recommends the SEBO X4 and X5, among other vacuum cleaners. However, it's not clear if she actually tested these vacuums in controlled conditions.

4. Epinions
SEBO X4 Bagged Upright Vacuum
Contributors to Epinions

Unusual for vacuum cleaners, more owners post reviews of the SEBO X4 on this site than on Amazon.com. The dozen or so users posting here give the SEBO X4 high marks, praising its solid construction and powerful suction.

5. Allergy Buyers Club.com
SEBO Vacuums X4, X5 Upright Automatic
Editors of AllergyBuyersClub.com

Since this is a retail site, recommendations have to be taken with a grain of salt, but the editors do point out the drawbacks of the vacuums they sell. The SEBO X4 and X5 are praised for their reliability, power and solid build, but they are described as a bit bulky and (because of their extreme suction) not a good choice for frail rugs.

Also see full report: Vacuum Cleaners

SEBO X4 Review