upright/handstick vacuum cleaners

[Paws]

I currently have an ordinary canister vacuum cleaner, but it's a pain in the back to use it, so I thought about getting an upright/handstick model which is basically a handheld stuck on a stick:

The marketing babble says they're as powerful as canister models nowadays, but I don't trust that ...although I only have one small room, kitchen and bathroom to clean, so it might be sufficient for me

Opinions and experiences with these upright vacuum cleaners? Especially with brands like Electrolux and Rowenta, as these are the cheapest and most popular models here.

 

[Supersix]

You get what you pay for. I bought a Dyson Ball, an upright that turns on one large ball instead of wheels or casters. Its very easy to use, but a bit expensive.

 

[Spiff]

I also have a Dyson ball. I love its powerful suction and how the ball makes it practically steer itself. But it is very expensive, especially for something made completely out of plastic. But at least it has a 5 year warranty.

 

[swerve]

DEFINITELY go with the ROOMBA!!!

Especially DEFINITELY if you have cats (which your username MAY indicate)...

 

[pat grimshaw]

… But it is very expensive, especially for something made completely out of plastic…

it's so annoying! The Chinese make a cheap copy but I know it will lose its suck in a year's time

 

[Paws]

Oh, hotlinking the image didn't work:
http://www.electrolux.ch/-ELU-/plai...=ELU_SB&productsubgroup=ELUXSB&product=102230

I don't think we have Dysons here and if, probably in specialized shops and very expensive. Roomba is too expensive too, even though there are other robots that start around $130, but I'm not sure if they're worth it and if spare parts are available.

 

[ShihTzuTylenol]

oh the stories I could tell you -- growing up doing chores. My mom had this terrific upright with a thick, spongy rubber hand grip. I used to pretend it was my employer and I was being reprimanded for insubordination. He was a strict disciplinarian and I was a loyal staff member. Need I go further?