Carpet manufacturers recommend a good quality upright vacuum such as the “Hoover Saavy.” In general you tend to get what you pay for. Uprights are very popular, and tend to provide the best suction. Most people are satisfied with a mid-priced vacuum that has a good brush, i.e. “beater bar.” Having said this, there are advantages to canister vacuums… not to mention the convenience and functionality of a quality central vac system.