The Oreck XL21 is hard working upright vacuum that runs quietly and operates efficiently. It can clean carpets or bare floors, and we were impressed with the strength of its suction. It powered dirt out of carpets of varying heights and left the carpets cleaner than we even expected. Pet hair was not a problem because the Oreck XL21 loosened and removed even the longest pet hair with ease.

We like the Oreck's two-speed motor, impressive 21-year warranty, and its 13-inch cleaning path and low profile head. Keep in mind that to keep the 21-year warranty, one must take the vacuum in for free tune-ups on a regular basis. The two-speed motor is ideal: The top speed powers through dirty carpets while the lower speed picks up crumbs on bare floors without blowing debris around.

The vacuum's roller brush cleans and lifts carpets, making them look refreshed. It fully reclines to a flat position to reach under beds and furniture. The HEPA filter bags are easy to remove and change. A sliding mechanism closes the vent and keeps dust from spreading as the bag is changed. There's also a place to insert a fragrance cartridge near the motor, which heats the cartridge and releases the fragrance. In fact, we like all of the Oreck XL21's details, from its comfortable ergonomic handle to its built-in headlight to illuminate its cleaning path. Plus it's lightweight and easy to push. Weighting in at just 9 pounds, it's so light we can carry it up stairs with one hand.

The Oreck XL21 's warranty is one of the longest we've encountered as well. It makes it easier to spend the $700 or more to purchase the Oreck XL21. Don't expect the Oreck to have all the attachments that come standard on most models. It simply vacuums. And does it very well. However, we've discovered that Oreck often pairs its vacuums with a free handheld, portable vacuum to help ease this lack of onboard attachments. This is a nice addition, because there are times when a full-size vacuum can't get into tight spaces. While we would like to have a few attachments, such as an attachment hose and crevice tool for getting in corners or along baseboards, the Oreck XL21 makes up for it with its sheer cleaning power. We test a lot of vacuums and few clean as well as this model.


Pros: Lightweight
Cons: No attachments

Warranty
1 year, parts on roller brush; 21 years, with annual manufacturer tune-ups