When it comes to reliable vacuum cleaner brands, Kenmore and Bissell are two names that pop up often — and for good reason. Kenmore has long been associated with household appliance durability and balanced performance, while Bissell brings serious energy to pet-focused cleaning and affordability.
But which brand actually delivers the best bang for your buck in a vacuum? From suction power to filtration, usability to pet hair handling, we put these two brands head-to-head across all essential aspects.
Let’s dive deep and find out which one truly cleans up the competition.
Affordability
This one goes to Bissell. They’re one of the most affordable brands on the market and offer solid features even in lower price brackets. Kenmore offers more power and build, but it comes at a higher price tag. If budget is tight, Bissell gives you more options under $200.
Winner: Bissell
Build Quality & Durability
Kenmore has built its name on long-lasting appliances, and that legacy holds true in its vacuums. The materials feel more premium, and the motors tend to maintain performance over time. Bissell, while improving, is still seen as more consumer-grade — good for a few years, but not a long-haul machine.
Winner: Kenmore
Products Variety
Kenmore offers a well-rounded lineup: uprights, bagged and bagless canisters, stick vacs, and even robot vacuums. Their machines usually come with large dustbin/bag capacities and tools for crevices, stairs, and furniture. Bissell sticks mostly to uprights and lightweight stick models. While they’re portable and great for quick cleanups, they fall a bit short in dustbin capacity and all-around versatility.
Winner: Kenmore
Usability & Maintenance
Bissell’s machines are generally lighter and easier to carry up and down stairs. Maintenance is also fairly simple, especially with their bagless models. Kenmore can feel bulky at times, especially the full-sized canister units, and they’re a bit louder too. Still, Kenmore wins some points for solid ergonomics and tool organization.
Winner: Bissell
Smart Features, Innovation & Technologies
Neither brand leans heavily into smart tech, but Kenmore has made strides with app-enabled robotic vacuums and features like infrared dirt sensors. Bissell stays more traditional, focusing on mechanical features — though their newer models include EdgeReach™ and Lift-Off® technology for specialty cleaning.
Winner: Kenmore
Motor & Cleaning Power
Kenmore vacuums are known for delivering solid motor power with consistent suction across both their upright and canister models. Their PowerFlow™ technology helps maintain suction even as the bag fills, which is a big plus for deep cleaning. On the other hand, Bissell machines, especially in the pet segment, also deliver decent suction — but more on the mid-range side. While models like the CleanView® and Pet Hair Eraser® perform well, they don’t typically offer the same raw power as Kenmore’s dual-motor setups.
Winner: Kenmore
Multi-Surface Capability
Both brands adapt well to multiple floor types, but Kenmore shines when it comes to transitioning between thick carpets and bare floors thanks to automatic height adjustment and specialized nozzles. Bissell has improved in this area with tools like Scatter-Free Technology and multi-surface brush rolls, but tends to struggle more on plush carpets.
Winner: Kenmore
Filtration System
Kenmore often features HEPA filtration, which traps 99.97% of dust and allergens — a huge plus for allergy-prone households. Some models even use HEPA bags for added protection. Bissell’s SmartSeal® Allergen System is effective and works well in their pet vacuums, but not all models include true HEPA filters. So, if you’re serious about air quality, Kenmore pulls slightly ahead here.
Winner: Kenmore
Pet-Friendly Cleaning
This is where Bissell fights back hard. Their Pet Hair Eraser® Turbo and ICONpet® lines are designed specifically for homes with pets. With tangle-free brush rolls, pet tools, and even Febreze® filter options for odor elimination, Bissell is truly a pet owner's dream. Kenmore also includes pet-friendly tools, but they feel more general-purpose in comparison.
Winner: Bissell
Conclusion
Kenmore and Bissell may target different audiences, but both are great in their own ways. Kenmore brings the muscle and long-term quality, while Bissell nails everyday convenience and pet-focused practicality.
At the end of the day, your cleaning priorities — power vs. portability, filtration vs. affordability — will determine which brand is the better fit for your home.
