I sold Sweepers at Sears(can I say that? I don't work there now!!) for almost 2 years. Your BEST bet is to a 12 AMP sweeper, always, always, always!!! DO NOT be fooled by Hoover when they say for example22 CEA that only means cleaning effectivness per amp but they are only using like 6-7 amps. Read the fine print. And I swear you can blow harder than that. I have the Sears equivalant to the Fantom Fury, and it is awesome!!! My mom also has a 20 year old Electrolux that is falling apart but has very surprising suction power.
Don't be fooled by Eureka, Hoover, or Dirt Devil. Of course Hoover and Eureka have good ones, I would reccomend the Hoover Windtunnel (bagless or with bags), my mom has one of those too, but like I said Read the Fine Print!!! Eureka the only one I liked was the bagless. And my mom also has a Kenmore canister, that is very good. I won't even go there with the Dirt Devil. PLEASE note that I do not work there any longer so I am not trying to SELL anything, I was just passing along my experience. I also know that everyone on this discussion board is very responsible but here a few Horror stories I had.
My friend that worked in Service actually had people bring in a sweeper FULL of dog poop. The dog had pooped they LET IT DRY!(on carpet) and then swept it up!!
Another lady told her teenage son to sweep the leaves off the deck so he did!! Except she meant use a broom and he thought it would be easier!! He is lucky it wasn't wet or ?!?!?!?
I have linoleum and I think that the Pledge Grab-its or Swiffers work wonders. Don't know about the Swiffer Wet I am getting carpet in kitchen for Christmas so there that goes!!
Again I am now unbiased just giving my opinion!!! Happy Holidays!