If you're an apartment dweller or have limited storage space, the Electrolux Intensity El5020 upright vacuum is worth a closer look. It has a unique space-saving feature and a handle that, when not in use, folds to lie flat over the top of the vacuum head, making it a compact size. This cube-like shape fits easily into a closet or utility room. It can even fit onto a shelf. But don't plan on transporting the Intensity a long way while it's folded. Unless you carry it like a baby, you probably won't get very far.

Because the Electrolux Intensity does not have an attachment hose, there aren't any dangling parts to get in the way when it is stored in its cube-like form. Without an attachment hose, however, there are no attachments. All the crevice nozzles, upholstery tools and dusting brushes to which we've become accustomed are missing on this model. This severely limits its appeal. Still, we gave it a shot, powering the Electrolux Intensity over carpets -- from Berber to shag -- as well as bare floors and area rugs. It worked very well on carpets and has automatic carpet height adjustment. It was proficient at grabbing small and large particles. It even picked up pesky pet hair that we expected would stay put on carpet fibers. Our biggest complaint was that it was difficult to turn when used on carpets, but we did like the telescopic handle that adjusts the height of the user.

The Intensity has an Off switch for the brush heads, making it possible to use on bare floors. We find it performed very well on bare floors. It didn't blow dirt around; it picked it up with ease. Unfortunately, it has a smaller-than-average collection bag that needed to be changed before we were even done testing.

The Electrolux Intensity has a HEPA filter, which is a feature we like, as well as a retractable cord that nests neatly within the vacuum. The 21-foot cord could be longer (30-plus feet is what we prefer). In the end, there is only one reason we'd recommend the Electrolux Intensity: If you're starved for space, it's worth it. The Intensity operates like a full-size upright but doesn't take up much storage room. If, however, you can spare the square-footage, consider an upright vacuum that's easier to operate and comes with useful accessories.


Pros: Unique folding design, use on carpets and bare floors
Cons: Not easy to maneuver, no attachments

Warranty
2 years