This vacuum does have terrific suction, especially noticeable when using on carpet.  The suction was so strong, it wore me out to get the unit moving across the floor!  It seems much heavier to me than 13 pounds.  I'm a senior citizen so maybe I'm just not strong enough.  Steering is also a bit awkward, but I have less trouble with it on hard floor surfaces.  Perhaps I'll get better at steering as time goes on.  All in all, it cleans well and is better than my old vacuum.