I used to have a Dyson that took a LOT of abuse over the 15 years I owned it - dogs, cats, and one messy kid.  I loved that thing, but then it died.  I looked at a Dyson replacement but just didn't want to spend the money and thought I'd give this a try.  Glad I did!  It doesn't feel as well built and may not last 15 years, but it has very good suction, very light to carry around, is very easy to use, and I love how it breaks down to smaller parts (lift away canister).  It is well designed and very useful.  Great for stairs.