self-propelled. This helps in cleaning large areas. The on/off switch is inconvenient as it is sort of on the top of the canister. Where the power switch should be is a power boost switch which I have to assume you can increase the power to lift heavier objects as this is supposed to be a commercial vacuum. However, if this is actually the case, then it burns through the belts. The belt can burn out before you know it. Before that I only used a normal household vacuum and probably changed the belt twice in 6 years. I had to change the belt on this vacuum cleaner 6 times in 2 years. Switching is also a bit cumbersome. You need to remove some screws (top and bottom) and 2 covers. It's not a 3 minute replacement like my old household vacuum cleaner. It collects dirt and objects for the most part. I think next time I would choose a different vacuum cleaner.