If you're in the market for a quiet-running upright vacuum, the Bosch Cyclone Jet Bagless BUC11700UC may just fit the bill. While the Bosch Cyclone Jet manages to largely forego the obligatory motor noise experienced when using most models, it still follows the bagless trend with ease. It performs well on various heights of carpet, suctioning dust and debris with the best of them. It also picks up sand and other soil from bare floors without blowing it around the room.

Rather than using a traditional bag system, in which owners must deal with the expense and extra step of replacing vacuum bags, the Bosch Cyclone Jet uses a view-through canister to collect the debris suctioned from flooring. The collection canister is one of the easiest to use that we've tested. It is easy to remove and it's also easy to clear its contents. The canister flips open from the bottom to release its holdings. Our only word of caution is to make sure you're holding the canister over a trashcan before opening it. We also like the fact that the vacuum doesn't lose suction, regardless of whether the canister is nearly full. Some other competitors we tested lost suction before the canister was full. Plus, the Cyclone Jet has a built-in HEPA filter to trap dust and allergens.

The Bosch Cyclone Jet Bagless Upright Vacuum has a chic, modern design. In fact, it's arguably a cleaning tool we wouldn't mind leaving out in plain view. Plus, it has a few thoughtful extras, such as a retractable cord that doesn't require constant manual winding. Our only complaint is that sometimes the retracting cord threatens to pull the cord from the outlet into which it is plugged. We also would like the power cord to have several more feet in length for increased mobility. We like the detachable extension wand, which is recessed in the vacuum's handle and fits on vacuum's the 9-foot hose. This system allows one to reach, for example, a cobweb in a ceiling corner. There are three onboard accessories, including a crevice tool, a dusting brush and a tool for cleaning stairs and upholstery. Overall, the Bosch Cyclone Jet Bagless Upright Vacuum is a bit pricey, but gets high marks for suction, ease of use, useful attachments and an elegant design.


Pros: Elegant design, powerful suction, use on bare floors and carpets
Cons: Short power cord

Warranty
1 year, parts and labor; 5 years, motor