I have never owned a fancy vacuum. We have always had a smaller sized home, and I have always stuck with stick-vacs for easy storage and maneuverability. When my last stick vac died I decided to get something a little more sturdy. This has been an amazing vacuum. I love the adjustability of it, and that it's not too heavy to maneuver around a smaller sized home. I can reach cobwebs on the ceiling and behind all kinds of furniture just by adjusting the arm. The bags hold a TON of gunk, too, which is why I chose the bagged vacuum over the canister. It's easy to clean, easy to use, and I just love the compact design so it doesn't take up a lot of space! The only hard part is getting the suction level just right so that it doesn't get stuck to my floor, but still sucks up all the dirt and doesn't spit anything back out!, and I wish the cord was longer, but SO glad it retracts! I am super happy I chose this vacuum and I hope it lasts me a long time!