A no-frills version of the more expensive Vision model, the Dirt Devil Breeze Canister Vacuum M082500 is still a solid performer.

It has a nozzle with a motorized brush that is connected to a canister via a flexible hose. Although bagless vacuums sometimes get mixed reviews, we like the Breeze's view-through collection canister. It is easy to empty and goes back in place with a snap. Because the canister is within easy view, we can immediately tell when it needs emptied. The canister also has a decent capacity; we don't find the need to empty it halfway through a big job.

Just like the Vision, the Breeze has a 20-foot power cord. However, it lacks an automatic rewind function, which is a convenience we prefer. We also miss the turbo tool and convenient carrying handle that the Vision offers -- two things that are lacking on the Breeze model. In fact, the Breeze is a bit heavier than the Vision, which would have made the addition of a carrying handle a welcome one. It does have a small built-in grip handle, but it doesn't really suffice.

Still, we were pleased with the way the Dirt Devil Breeze performed on carpets. This model was successful at pulling large debris from carpets of varying pile heights, but didn't fare quite as well on long pet hair. For the most part, it left carpets looking and feeling clean. The motorized brush head helps fluff and freshen carpets as well. We like its filtration system, which helps trap dust and allergens. Although not a True HEPA system, it seemed to give positive results.

The Dirt Devil Breeze M082500 has several attachments, including an attachment to clean bare floors. This increases the versatility of the vacuum. We were pleased with the bare floor attachment. It picked up dust and debris without blowing it all over the floor, as is the case with some upright models. The other attachments are standard on many models -- a crevice tool, dusting brush and upholstery brush. The tools are stored onboard, which is usually convenient. We don't, however, like the location of the tool stored on the vacuum's wand. It sometimes gets in the way, and can be knocked off when sweeping under furniture.

When it is compared to other Dirt Devil canister vacuums, the Breeze lacks features. However, it makes up for that lack with a lower price tag. If you're in the market for a bagless canister vacuum adept at cleaning carpets and bare floors -- but you don't need extra features -- the Dirt Devil Breeze Canister Vacuum M082500 is a good choice.


Pros: Bagless model, motorized brush head, onboard tools
Cons: Doesn't have True HEPA system, no tool with motorized brush