I have been using the big vacuum cleaner from eureka forbes(cost 3 yrs back Rs 6000 plus). Later I also purchased a small vacuum cleaner from baazee, costing about 1200.
Advantages of a big cleaner:
1) more power and dust suc*ing capacity. A small one is really for small jobs.
2) Is appropriate for a planned job, like cleaning up on a weekend etc.
Dis-advantages of a big cleaner:
1) heavy to hold, especially if you want to do overhead cleaning of say curtain.
2) difficult to clean in narrow spaces. Have to move the cleaner in the right place, and then approach the space at appropriate angle.
Advantages of a small cleaner:
1) easy to hold and carry. Is the only choice for a quick small cleaning job. You can finish the work with a small cleaner in less time, than it would take to get the big cleaner in place and pull the cord out, fit the pipe and so on.
2) Since you can carry it by looping it around shoulder, you can pretty much reach most places easily.
3) Is appropriate for small, ad-hoc cleaning jobs.
Dis-advantages of a small cleaner:
1) less power and dust su*king capacity. A small one is really for small, quick jobs.
2) pipe is small and not for reaching at a distance.
Bottomline:
If you do not have carpets, there is no need for a big vacuum cleaner. Broom, mop, and housekeeping maid, are what you should invest in.
Wishlist:
Would like to try a cordless vacuum cleaner sometime. It could also be handy to clean your car apart from household stuff.