Kenmore DU1275 Featherlite Bagless Upright Vacuum vs Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial
Updated August 2026 — Kenmore DU1275 Featherlite Bagless Upright Vacuum wins on weight and versatility, Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial wins on durability and maintenance.
The Kenmore DU1275 is a lightweight, versatile vacuum ideal for home use, while the Sanitaire SC679K excels in commercial cleaning performance.
Why Kenmore DU1275 Featherlite Bagless Upright Vacuum is better
Price
Kenmore is $30 cheaper than Sanitaire
Weight
Kenmore is lighter at under 11 lbs
Pet Hair
Kenmore has a hair eliminator brushroll
Why Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial is better
Durability
Sanitaire has a polycarbonate hood for tough environments
Capacity
Sanitaire has an 18-quart shake-out bag
Commercial Use
Sanitaire is designed for extensive cleaning tasks
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | Kenmore DU1275 Featherlite Bagless Upright Vacuum | Sanitaire SC679K Tradition Upright Commercial |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $119.99 | $149.99 |
| Dust Collection | Bagless | Bagged |
| Cleaning Performance | Residential | Commercial |
| Maintenance | Easy | Tool-free |
| Versatility | High | Moderate |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Kenmore DU1275 and Sanitaire SC679K
The Kenmore DU1275 is priced at $119.99, while the Sanitaire SC679K comes in at $149.99, making the Kenmore about 17% cheaper. Both vacuums target different cleaning needs, with the Kenmore focusing on residential use and lightweight performance, whereas the Sanitaire is designed for commercial-grade cleaning.
Design and Build Quality
The Kenmore DU1275 features a lightweight design at under 11 lbs, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and corners. In contrast, the Sanitaire SC679K weighs slightly more at 12.2 lbs but boasts a durable polycarbonate hood, ensuring it can withstand tough environments. While the Kenmore is crafted for home use with swivel steering for seamless navigation, the Sanitaire emphasizes durability and ease of maintenance, with a tool-free brush roll and metal clip bag release system.
Dust Collection and Capacity
The Kenmore DU1275 has a larger dust cup capacity, allowing users to clean more area with fewer interruptions. This vacuum’s extra-large dust cup is designed for efficient cleaning, while the Sanitaire SC679K features an 18-quart shake-out bag, which is substantial for commercial cleaning but requires users to manually dispose of the contents. This significant difference in dust collection methods may influence users based on their cleaning frequency and preferences.
Cleaning Performance
In terms of cleaning performance, the Kenmore DU1275 is equipped with a hair eliminator brushroll that automatically removes hair and strings, making it ideal for pet owners. It also features four height adjustment levels, improving cleaning efficiency on various surfaces. The Sanitaire SC679K, on the other hand, is built for commercial-grade performance, offering over 500 hours of operation with its powerful motor. This vacuum is tailored for extensive cleaning tasks, making it suitable for businesses and larger areas.
Versatility and Accessories
The Kenmore DU1275 comes with versatile on-board tools, including a dedicated upholstery tool and a 3-in-1 combination tool for a comprehensive home clean. Its extended reach of 7 feet with a 6-foot hose facilitates tackling cleaning challenges, even in tight spaces. Meanwhile, the Sanitaire SC679K, while it doesn’t include additional tools, is designed for easy maintenance and operation in commercial settings, focusing more on durability than versatility.
Power and Efficiency
The Kenmore DU1275 operates efficiently with a design aimed at home use, balancing power and ease of use. In contrast, the Sanitaire SC679K’s commercial-grade power allows for a cleaning area of up to 4,680 square feet, thanks to its 30-foot power cord. This aspect makes the Sanitaire more suitable for large spaces, where frequent plug switching would be impractical. The Sanitaire's higher wattage also supports its robust cleaning capabilities.
Maintenance and Durability
When it comes to maintenance, the Kenmore DU1275 is designed for ease with features that keep the brushroll clean from hair without manual intervention. Conversely, the Sanitaire SC679K offers unique maintenance features like tool-free brush roll and belt replacement, making upkeep straightforward for commercial users. The choice between these vacuums may depend on the user’s willingness to maintain a bagged system versus enjoying the bagless convenience.
Which should you buy?
Ultimately, the choice between the Kenmore DU1275 and the Sanitaire SC679K hinges on your specific needs. If you seek a lightweight, versatile vacuum ideal for home use with excellent pet hair management, the Kenmore DU1275 at $119.99 is a compelling option, especially given its lower price and user-friendly features. However, if your requirements lean towards commercial cleaning with durability and extended operational hours, the Sanitaire SC679K, priced at $149.99, provides robust performance suited for large areas. Each vacuum excels in its domain, making your cleaning tasks easier based on your environment and preferences.

