Kirby vacuums do cost more money than a typical vacuum you would find in a store. However, they have a very good customer base and that has to do with the quality of the machine. The vacuums are very well-known for their power and durability. The only way to get a new Kirby vacuum cleaner new is through door to door sales.
With that being said, some customers have said the sales pitch can be a bit to high pressure. So even though they have quality vacuum machines it just depends how much you really desire to own a Kirby compared to a mainstream vacuum, and if you are willing to listening to the live sales pitch.
