I do not mind the noise level of the vacuum . I live in a house that have stain concrete floor . I be use a regular upright vacuum on that be leave visible streak mark on the floor from the roller . this backpack vacuum be gentle and have strong suction . it have not hurt my back yet even though I have have to remind myself not to lean over with it on . only complaint be that the extension do not secure\/snap into place and fall off upon normal retraction over carpet\/noteworthy resistance .