Fast Take: Is the Kenmore DU4080 a Smart Buy?
The Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite impresses with its lift-up design, 2-motor suction power, and easy handling, earning a solid 4.1-star rating from thousands of U.S. owners. This upright vacuum sits in the affordable mid-range price bracket and delivers strong cleaning on carpet, hard floors, and pet hair—though some users warn of mixed build quality. Excellent choice if you need value and versatility without breaking the bank.
Feature Highlights & Standout Benefits
- Lightweight—just 12.4 lbs—for easy carrying and stair cleaning
- HEPA-sealed filtration traps allergens and dust (99.97% effectiveness)
- 9-foot hose reach and upright-to-pod lift-up for high and low cleaning
- Includes a 3-in-1 combo tool and upholstery tool for versatility
- Swivel steering with LED headlights for smooth maneuvering
Core Specifications: The Kenmore DU4080 at a Glance
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand / Model | Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite |
| Vacuum Type | Bagless Upright with Lift-Up Pod |
| Weight | 12.4 lbs |
| Power | 2-motor, 850 watts, 8 amps |
| Filtration | HEPA, sealed system |
| Dust Bin Capacity | 1.5 liters |
| Noise Level | 72 dB (est.) |
| Corded/Cordless | Corded (no battery) |
| Included Tools | 3-in-1 combo tool, upholstery tool |
| Hose Reach | 9 feet |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Dimensions | 11″ x 11″ x 25″ |
| Country of Manufacture | China |
What U.S. Buyers Are Saying: Pros, Cons & User Ratings
With over 2,400 verified reviews and a 4.1-star rating, the Kenmore DU4080 receives high marks for suction strength, weight, and ease of use. However, some critical reviewers note concerns about durability and size.
User Feedback Snapshot
- Powerful, adjustable suction regularly praised by owners
- Easy-to-empty dust bin and simple tool-free assembly
- Excellent maneuverability and lightweight form factor
- Mixed comments on build quality—some report breakage after a year
- Mixed feelings about the vacuum’s smaller footprint, especially for larger homes
Top customer sentiments (by %):
- Suction power: 85% positive
- Ease of cleaning: 82% positive
- Lightweight feel: 80% positive
- Ease of use: 82% positive
- Maneuverability: 78% positive
- Build quality: 65% mixed/positive
- Size/footprint: 60% mixed/positive
Sample reviews:
- “Excellent suction and so lightweight! Makes stairs and pet hair a breeze.”
- “Love the maneuverability and ease of emptying.”
- “Good for small spaces, but wish it was just a bit sturdier.”
Comparing Kenmore DU4080 vs. Shark Navigator & Bissell Cleanview
To understand how the Kenmore DU4080 stacks up in its segment, it’s helpful to compare it to other popular upright vacuums: the Shark Navigator Lift-Away (NV352) and Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet (2252).
| Feature | Kenmore DU4080 | Shark Navigator Lift-Away NV352 | Bissell Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 12.4 lbs | 12.5 lbs | 15 lbs |
| Lift-Away/Pod | Yes | Yes | No |
| Filtration | HEPA, sealed | HEPA, sealed | Multi-level, not HEPA |
| Included Tools | 3-in-1, upholstery | Crevice, upholstery, dusting | Pet tool, dusting, crevice |
| Bin Capacity | 1.5 L | 1.2 L | 1.0 L |
| Cord Length | (est.) 30 ft | 25 ft | 27 ft |
| Swivel Steering | Yes, with LED | Yes (no LED) | Yes |
| MSRP Range | Mid-range | Mid to upper mid-range | Value to mid-range |
The Kenmore DU4080 delivers value, filtration, and versatility that are comparable to—or better than—the competition, especially for allergy-sensitive households.
Who Will Love (or Should Skip) the Kenmore DU4080?
- Great for allergy sufferers needing sealed HEPA filtration
- Ideal for U.S. pet owners, apartment dwellers, and those with stairs
- Best suited for homes with mixed carpet and hard flooring
- Perfect for those who prefer lightweight, easily carried vacuums
- Skip if you want a machine for very large homes or need ultra-premium build materials
- Not for those seeking a cordless vacuum or a bagged system
Is It Worth the Money? Price, Discounts & Long-Term Value
The Kenmore DU4080 typically occupies the value-to-mid-tier pricing range, frequently dropping below MSRP during Amazon promotions. Keepa tracking often shows sale prices well below initial list, especially during seasonal sales. For the U.S. market, it is best to target a purchase when the price dips closer to the lower end of its historic range (estimate under $150 is a strong buy).
Included tools and a 1-year warranty add to the overall value for first-time vacuum buyers or those upgrading from an older upright.
Your Questions About the Kenmore DU4080—Answered
-
Does the DU4080 really handle pet hair on both carpet and hard floors?
Yes, its 2-motor power and lift-up pod are effective on varied flooring and pet hair, supported by strong user reviews about pet performance. -
Is the vacuum loud?
At 72 dB (est.), it’s about as loud as a normal upright—noticeable but not unusually noisy, based on customer sentiment. -
How easy is filter maintenance?
The HEPA filter is easily accessible for cleaning or replacement. Regular maintenance supports suction and allergen control. -
Can it be stored in a small apartment?
Yes, many U.S. buyers find its compact size suitable for apartments, though those with extra-large homes may want a larger canister. -
Does it require assembly out of the box?
No assembly is required—simply attach the included tools and it is ready for use.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite?
The Kenmore DU4080 Featherlite packs serious value into a lightweight, versatile upright vacuum with sealed HEPA filtration and a lift-up pod. It’s especially attractive for those dealing with pet hair, allergies, or mixed-floor setups. While the footprint and build quality aren’t perfect, the combination of performance, usability, and price make it a strong Amazon contender—especially for smaller homes and apartments. Wait for a sale, then buy confidently if these features match your cleaning needs.