If you want to ditch the wires and free up your vacuuming, investing in one of the best cordless vacuums for your home is a must. But with so many options available in the market, choosing can be overwhelming. We have thoroughly reviewed and categorized ten of the finest options based on affordability, budget, and overall performance to make your decision-making process easier.
All the items in this guide have been thoroughly reviewed to give you an honest perspective of their effectiveness and value for money.
Cordless vacuums are extremely convenient, eliminating the hassle of tangled cords and restricted movement. They are lightweight, portable, and ideal for quick clean-ups. Their rechargeable batteries make them energy-efficient, while their powerful suction matches the best vacuum cleaners. These vacuums are designed to clean multiple surfaces, making them a great tool for keeping your home spotless.
If you need something heavy-duty to clean a large space or a busy family home where messes happen frequently, then the Dyson Outsize is the perfect match. Although an older model, it has the largest bin capacity of all the stick vacuums available. This means you can clean bigger messes and go for longer periods without emptying your vacuum.
If you want to narrow your options for buying a new stick vacuum, continue reading to know which cordless vacuums made our list.
The quick list
Want to find out what the best cordless vacuums are quickly? Below, you'll find a roundup of our choices. You can jump to a more detailed review of every pick, along with our price comparison tool to help you find the best deals.
The best cordless vacuum overall
The Dyson Gen5detect Absolute has a lot going for it, with HEPA filtration, powerful suction, and dust detection. Yet it is expensive, but we feel that it's worth it for the quality and features.
The best budget cordless vacuum
The Levoit VortexIQ 40 Flex is an affordable, well-designed, pet-friendly cordless vacuum. Its automatic power adjustment feature and flexible stick make it a great choice for general cleaning.
The cordless vacuum with the best tech
The Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute is a powerful, eco-friendly, and stylish cordless vacuum that is perfect for pet owners and has useful accessories.
The best bagged cordless vacuum
The Henry Quick Cordless Stick Vacuum offers convenient cleaning with scented discs and efficient debris handling but may not be ideal for eco-conscious users.
The best cordless vacuum for dustbin capacity
The Halo Capsule X is a unique stick vacuum with impressive performance and modular design. It has a mid-range price point and multiple accessories.
The best cordless vacuum for pet owners
The Shark Stratos cordless is a powerful and affordable stick vacuum that will lift even the most stubborn pet hairs from carpet and upholstery. Thanks to its ingenious scent booster, it'll also leave your home smelling fresh after a vacuum clean.
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The best cordless vacuum for deep cleaning
The Shark Cordless Detect Pro is a powerful and efficient vacuum with auto-sensing technology, an auto-empty system, easy assembly, lightweight design, and minimal maintenance.
The best value cordless vacuum
Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum is a sleek and affordable cordless vacuum with a long battery life, a five-stage filtration system, and great performance on pet hair and dust.
The best cordless vacuum for large homes
The Tineco Pure One S12 Pro EX is a smart cordless vacuum with two batteries and enough tools to tackle dust and dirt all around your home, but it's expensive.
The best cordless vacuum with AI
Equipped with a convenient one-touch Clean Station and AI technology to save energy, the Samsung Bespoke Jet AI powerfully deals with all floor types.
The best cordless vacuums we recommend in 2024
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The best cordless vacuum overall
✅ You need power: it is equipped with advanced suction power, HEPA filtration, and dust detection.
✅ You want easy assembly: Assembling the vacuum is easy and intuitive, and the flag system makes clearing a blockage or cleaning the filter easy.
✅ High-end design: Removing the trigger button has made operating easier and eliminates finger fatigue.
❌ You're on a budget: it is expensive compared to other cordless vacuums.
❌ Limited battery life: vacuuming on Auto mode took more power, lasting just over 30 minutes before needing recharging.
❌ You have pets or children: it is best suited for households with minimal debris and dust.
🔎 The Dyson Gen5detect Absolute is a remarkable cordless vacuum with advanced suction power, HEPA filtration, and dust detection. It has a luxurious, high-end design with a deep Prussian Blue and Rich Copper finish. The vacuum also delivers excellent performance, is easy to maintain, and has top-notch features and functionality. However, it is quite expensive and may not be suitable for households with pets or children who frequently make a mess ★★★★★
The best premium cordless vacuum on the market is undoubtedly the Dyson Gen5detect Absolute. It boasts advanced suction power, HEPA filtration, and dust detection, making it a remarkable cleaning tool. Our reviewer has even awarded it five stars for its outstanding performance. The only downside is its premium list price, which is why it's positioned in this category of our guide.
Assembly: The cordless vacuum is a great choice for those concerned about sustainability, as its packaging is 100% recyclable, with no plastic or polystyrene. Instead of a manual, the vacuum comes with a QR code that links to the My Dyson app, which provides all the information you need, including a user guide, care and maintenance tips, and troubleshooting advice.
The app also includes useful videos to illustrate instructions and a digital assistant to help you find the necessary information. Assembling the vacuum is easy and intuitive, with the filters and the battery unit installed.
Design: The Gen5detect Absolute is a powerful cordless vacuum with a new colorway featuring a deep Prussian Blue and Rich Copper finish, giving it a luxurious, high-end look and feel. One of the significant changes in this model is removing the trigger button, which has been replaced with a simple power button above the LCD screen.
Our reviewer found that this design tweak made operating easier and eliminated finger fatigue. The vacuum is also quieter than previous models, making it more pleasant.
Performance: Our reviewer tested the stick vacuum to see how it handled various types of debris and was impressed with how much dust and pet hair it picked up on its first pass in a large carpeted room.
The Hair screw tool, crevice tool, and duster brush were all effective in cleaning different areas of our home, and the Fluffy Optic cleaner head did an excellent job of picking up even the smallest specks of dust on hard floors. The Dyson vacuum also succeeded in sucking up fine and larger particles on carpets and hard floors, leaving no dusty corners behind.
Maintenance: Clearing a blockage or cleaning the filter is made easy with the flag system, and the dust cup can also be easily emptied by pushing the lever at the side. It can be pumped several times to eliminate any packed-in dirt. However, the battery life may vary depending on the power mode used.
While Dyson claims up to 70 minutes of running time, Joanne found that vacuuming on Auto mode took more power, lasting just over 30 minutes before needing recharging. The battery takes around four and a half hours to recharge fully so that an extra battery may be necessary for large homes.
Value: The Dyson Gen5detect Absolute is a high-end vacuum with a price tag of $949.99. Despite the cost, the vacuum comes with top-notch features and functionality. Dyson is known for its excellent customer support, service, and quality, and the vacuum also comes with a 2-year warranty for added peace of mind.
Read more: Dyson Gen5detect Absolute review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly | 100% recyclable packaging; My Dyson app; Easy and intuitive assembly | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Luxurious design; Easy to operate; Quieter operation | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Impressive suction power; Effective cleaning tools | ★★★★★ |
| Maintenance | Easy maintenance; Battery life may vary; Long recharge time | ★★★★ |
The best budget cordless vacuum
✅ You want auto adjustment: it can automatically adjust the power according to the level of dust in your home.
✅ You're on a budget: it is an excellent option for those looking for an affordable yet reliable stick vacuum.
✅ Sleek design: the matte black, silver, and gray plastic casing, chrome detailing, and colorful LED display give it a stylish appearance.
❌ You need advanced features: it lacks advanced features such as Wi-Fi connectivity or voice control.
❌ Limited battery life: the vacuum lasts 40 minutes on a single charge.
❌ You hate mess: emptying the dust cup can be mucky.
🔎 The Levoit VortexIQ 40 Flex is an affordable, well-designed cordless vacuum that competes well against big-name brands. It offers customizable power settings, has a sleek appearance, and is pet-friendly. The vacuum's impressive performance, maneuverability, and sturdiness make it a reliable option for those looking for a stick vacuum ★★★★★
Our top pick for the best cordless vacuum for carpets is the Levoit VortexIQ 40 Flex. It is not only well-designed and cordless but also a budget-friendly option that can effectively clean dirt, dust, and debris. It competes with big-name brands like Dyson and is a great choice for those looking for a high-quality vacuum at an affordable price.
Assembly: The vacuum offers an auto feature to adjust the power according to the level of dust in your home. It also has five customizable power settings, marked by two blue bars on the display, which can be adjusted using the + and - buttons. The unit has a standard vacuum head that can be used on hard floors or carpets, and the setup is easy, with clearly marked buttons and helpful instructions.
The unit comes securely packed in a cardboard box with recyclable packaging and includes a quick start guide and a detailed user manual.
Design: The VortexIQ 40 Flex's matte black, silver, and gray plastic casing, chrome detailing, and colorful LED display give it a sleek appearance. The unit's grip is beveled rubber, which we felt was comfortable and provided a firm grasp. The buttons and locks are marked, and the rubber edging on the crevice tool prevents scratches on the furnishings.
The vacuum's LED headlights, flexible stick feature, and 90-degree folding shaft make it easy to use and operate at a reasonable noise level. The vacuum's maneuverability is impressive, and it is pet-friendly too.
Performance: The unit was tested in our reviewer, Joanne's, family home with pets and tried out in a living room and kitchen. It performed well in a general cleaning test, effortlessly picking up pet hair, dust, and debris from the hard floor and the carpet.
The vacuum's ability to adjust its power automatically based on its cleaning surface impressed Joanne, and it easily handled various crumbs, flour, and oats. The mini motorized brush and rubber-tipped crevice tools effectively cleaned carpeted stairs and dusty skirting boards, respectively, and the dusting brush was gentle enough to dust family photos and protect woodwork.
Maintenance: The vacuum lasts around 40 minutes on a single charge and takes around four hours to charge up completely. The only downside Joanne found is that emptying the dust cup can be messy, but regular emptying can help avoid this issue.
Value: The Levoit VortexIQ 40 cordless vacuum is priced at $199.99, cheaper than some of its leading competitors. It may not run as long as some of its rivals, but 40 minutes is usually enough to clean the entire house. The sturdiness of the accessories and the additional flexible stick feature make it a good option for those looking for a reliable stick vacuum.
Read our full Levoit VortexIQ40 review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly | Customizable Power Settings; Easy setup | ★★★★½ |
| Design | Sleek Appearance; Comfortable Grip; Easy to Use | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Strong Performance; Automatic Power Adjustment; Effective Cleaning Tools | ★★★★★ |
| Maintenance | Messy Dust Cup; Shorter Battery Life; Lengthy Charging | ★★★ |
The cordless vacuum with the best tech
✅ You have pets: It has a powerful performance and can pick up pet hair, dust, and debris with ease.
✅ You hate missing spots: The vacuum comes with a laser-illuminated cleaner head and a hair screw tool.
✅ You want something easy: The machine is easy to set up, use, and maintain, and it comes with eco-friendly packaging.
❌ You're on a budget: It is quite expensive compared to other cordless vacuums in the market.
❌ You need something quiet: The cordless vacuum is a bit loud.
❌ You have a larger home: The battery life might not be enough for those who have larger homes or need longer cleaning sessions.
🔎 The Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute is a powerful cordless vacuum with several useful accessories and features. It's efficient, easy to use, and perfect for those with a bigger budget. Our tests proved conclusive, and we highly recommend this cleaner ★★★★★
The Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute is a game-changer for pet owners, with a laser-illuminated cleaner head and a hair screw tool specifically designed for picking up pet hair. In our testing, we were struck by the eco-friendly packaging, easy setup, design, powerful performance, simple maintenance, and overall value of the Dyson V12 Detect Slim.
Assembly: The Dyson V12 Detect Slim has eco-friendly packaging, and the manual is easy to access through a QR code or link. It comes partially charged, and the filters have already been installed. We found it super easy to set up and start cleaning.
Design: The Dyson V12 Detect Slim is a funky-looking cordless vacuum that's both slim and light. It's got an LCD screen that shows you how much dirt it's picking up and how much battery you have left. The vacuum comes with a bunch of accessories, including a laser-illuminated cleaner head and a hair screw tool for picking up pet hair. The standout feature is the laser vacuuming head, which shows how much dirt and debris collects at the edges of your floors.
Performance: We tried out the Dyson V12 Detect Slim Absolute and were blown away by how well it handled all the dirt and debris in our house. The cordless vacuum picked up every scrap of pet hair, dust, and food crumbs from the floor and maneuvered easily around tight corners. We loved the LCD screen that showed how much time was left for cleaning, and emptying the dust cup was a breeze. The accessories were handy, too, like the duster brush and hair screw tool. The machine is a bit loud, but it's a powerful cleaner that does the job.
Maintenance: To keep your Dyson V12 Detect Slim clean, wipe the dust cup and wash the filter every month. If you need spare parts or repairs, Dyson offers them through its website and service centers. There's also a two-year warranty.
Value: Dyson vacuums have a hefty price tag, but they're worth it for their fantastic features and customer service. If you're on a tight budget, the Levoit VortexIQ 40 is a solid choice. The Aspiron Cordless Vacuum is cheap and lightweight but lacks the flexibility of the Dyson. If you're feeling fancy, the Yeedi Vac 2 Pro robot vacuum can do it all.
Read more: Dyson V12 Detect Slim review
The best bagged cordless vacuum
✅ You want an innovative design: The vacuum's unique design, including the scented pods and lightweight build, offers a pleasant cleaning experience.
✅ You need something efficient: It effectively handles various types of debris.
✅ You want something low-maintenance: With minimal maintenance requirements and the pod serving as the filter, it offers hassle-free operation.
❌ You're on a budget: At $599, it may be considered expensive compared to other stick vacuums on the market.
❌ You're an eco-warrior: While the scented pods are made from 65% recycled materials, the disposable nature of the pods may not align with eco-conscious preferences.
❌ You worry about availability: Replacement pods and scented discs may be relatively costly and may not be widely available.
🔎 The Henry Quick Cordless Stick Vacuum is making waves with its debris-retaining abilities and scented pods. Weighing only 3.2kg, it's easy to maneuver but struggles with long hair and larger debris. Priced at $599, it's a budget-friendly option with eco-friendly scent discs, but not suitable for eco-conscious users. ★★★★½
With its innovative design and performance, the Henry Quick Cordless Stick Vacuum offers convenient and efficient cleaning. It is priced at $599 and features debris-retaining abilities, scented discs, and a lightweight build. While it excels at handling various debris, it may not be ideal for eco-conscious users.
Assembly: The Henry Quick Cordless Stick Vacuum comes in a branded box with all components neatly packed. No assembly instructions are necessary. After a three-hour charge, simply slot the parts together, insert a pod, and start vacuuming. Mount the wall dock early, as the vacuum doesn't stand alone.
Design: The Henry Quick Cordless Stick Vacuum is the brand's first stick vacuum, featuring a friendly design reminiscent of its larger bagged canister cousins. Unlike typical stick vacuums, it includes a pod (bag) for collecting dust and is designed to be used with scented discs that release a pleasant odor while vacuuming. The vacuum is lightweight, measuring 240x270x1220mm and weighing 3.2kg, with the flexibility to transform into a handheld vacuum. The scented pods, made from 65% recycled materials, are easily replaceable and can be disposed of when full.
Performance: Setting it up was easy, and after a full three-hour charge, it was ready to go. The vacuum handled a variety of debris, including household dust, plaster dust, wood sanding dust, and food crumbs, with ease. It struggled with larger debris and did not have an indicator to show when the filter was full. It effectively picked up sugar but struggled with rice puffs. Using it in handheld mode was convenient for cleaning the couch, although the suction felt less powerful. The vacuum operated at a noise level of 82dB and required minimal maintenance, as the pod also served as the filter. However, occasional cleaning of the brush bar and replacement of the scent disc were required.
Value: The Henry Quick Cordless Stick Vacuum costs $599 and can be purchased from Nacecare / MyHenry.com or retailers like Amazon. Additional scented discs cost $7.99 for a pack of two, and pods cost up to $34.99 for a pack of 10. Consider the Shark Stratos Cordless and the classic NaceCare Henry.
Read more: NaceCare Henry Quick Cordless Stick Vacuum review
| Attribute | Notes | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Price & availability | You can regularly find it available for less than $200 on Amazon | ★★★★★ |
| Design | It's easy to assemble, comfortable to hold and looks good | ★★★★★ |
| Performance | Lovely odor from the scent discs. Picks up fine dirt perfectly, but spits out larger debris and hair gets wrapped around the brushbar | ★★★★ |
The best cordless vacuum for dustbin capacity
✅ You want a cleaner that can perform multiple cleaning tasks: It has a spacious dustbin and comes with multiple accessories.
✅ You appreciate a distinctive design: Its cylindrical or capsule-like body gives it a unique design that sets it apart from other vacuums.
✅ You want something worth the price: The Halo Capsule X is priced competitively compared to other vacuums on the market.
❌ You need something lightweight: The Halo Capsule X's weight may cause discomfort during extended cleaning sessions.
❌ You have long hair or pets: The Halo Capsule X floorheads lack anti-tangling technology.
❌ You don't want to spend much: Although the Halo Capsule X is priced in the mid-range, it is still relatively expensive compared to other stick vacuums.
🔎 The Halo Capsule X is a vacuum that allows you to switch accessories and batteries easily, with a spacious dustbin and the ability to manually disengage the brush roll. However, if you don't enjoy switching floorheads or need to clean high-up places, this might not be the best fit for you. ★★★★½
The Halo Capsule X is a stick vacuum that can deliver impressive performance, flaunts a unique design, and comes at an affordable price. Its modular design makes it easy to switch between different cleaning tasks, and it also comes with several accessories and a spacious dustbin.
Assembly: Despite the number of pieces included, assembly is quite simple and takes less than five minutes. The vacuum even has a wall dock and an extra hard floor brush. Just remember to charge the removable battery before you start using it.
Design: The Halo Capsule X is a sleek and innovative stick vacuum with a unique cylindrical or capsule-like design. It is available in a sleek black/baby blue color combination. Its larger dustbin capacity sets it apart from other vacuums, which makes cleaning a breeze. It's also highly modular, featuring a removable lithium battery for easy charging and an efficient dustbin designed to hold dust pouches that can be easily disposed of when full.
The vacuum comes with various attachments, including a basic floor head, hard floor head, mini power brush, stretch hose, crevice tool, combo tool for use on upholstery, wall dock, battery, and five dust pouches. With just three controls located near the handle, it's an excellent option for those with sensitive flooring.
Performance: The Halo Capsule X is a powerful cordless vacuum that effectively cleans carpets, hard floors, and car mats. It offers three different modes, but even on the lowest setting, it is capable of suctioning up debris with ease. This vacuum's battery life is quite impressive, providing over 49 minutes of use on low with the brush roll on. The dustbin capacity is also surprisingly large at 2 liters.
However, one downside of this vacuum is that it's quite heavy to hold up. The floorheads also do not have anti-tangling technology, so you may need to cut off any strands wrapped around the brush roll. While the accessories that come with it are useful, the main floorheads are the most practical for most cleaning needs.
Value: The Halo Capsule X vacuum is available in three bundles. The extra accessories bundle is priced at $499.99 in the US. While it is not cheap, it is still a mid-range product in terms of pricing compared to other vacuums on the market. Other options, such as the Shark Stratos Cordless, are available, priced at $499.99.
Read more: Halo Capsule X review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Price | It has a mid-tier price tag and somewhat limited availability, but its design and performance are more than worth the cost. | ★★★★ |
| Design | A modular design, unique look, and ability to independently control the brushroll are just some of what makes this vacuum’s design special. | ★★★★½ |
| Performance | It does a great job vacuuming up whatever you need with a good battery life and large capacity dustbin, though it’s not great for reaching higher areas. | ★★★★½ |
The best cordless vacuum for pet owners
✅ You have pets: The Shark Stratos Cordless has odor-neutralizer tech onboard, which guards against the pet hair and dander picked up.
✅ You live in a hairy home: Short and long hair was easily picked up and sent straight to the dust cup without hair wrapped around the brushbar.
✅ You have limited storage space: The Shark Stratos Cordless has a flexible design that can be folded for compact, freestanding storage.
❌ You want a larger dust cup: The Shark Stratos Cordless has a dust cup capacity of 0.72 qt, which may not be big enough to clean a larger home.
❌ You have a large home: Along with the dust cup, which is on the small side, the 60-minute runtime may not provide enough power to finish the job
🔎 The Shark Cordless Vacuum is powerful and flexible, which finishes the clean with a wonderful aroma. This scent may not suit everyone, though, and you don't have the option for another odor, either. The floorhead is also on the heavy side, so some may struggle to vacuum the stairs in upright mode ★★★★½
The Shark Stratos Cordless stands out as the best cordless vacuum overall. Its unique specs and advanced technology make it an impressive option that we haven't seen before. We had the opportunity to review this model at home, and it's safe to say that it exceeded our expectations.
Assembly: This cordless Shark vacuum arrived neatly packaged with minimal recyclable packaging. Inside the box was the DuoClean floorhead, flexible wand, control unit, odor neutralizer technology cartridge, battery, plus two accessories: Duster Crevice Tool and Anti-Allergen Brush.
It all seamlessly clipped and slotted together, although we did struggle to secure the intensity dial over the odor-neutralizer technology cartridge into the floorhead. It took a few goes to turn the dial until it felt secure. All in all, though, it only took a few minutes to assemble all the components of the Stratos Cordless.
Design: At a glance, the Shark Cordless Vacuum looks like your average stick cordless vacuum; the floorhead is positioned at one end of a wand, with a dust cup and controls at the other. However, look closer; you'll see that the floorhead has been bolstered with Clean Sense IQ and odor-neutralizer technology.
This means the suction power automatically adjusts in areas of heavier dirt, and an odor eliminates unpleasant smells. The stick wand has 'MultiFlex technology,' which bends to clean under furniture (nothing new), but then it can be folded over for compact freestanding.
It can also be charged from an electrical socket without removing the battery when folded over. The positioning of the handle, controls, and dust cup is relatively similar to that of other cordless vacuums. This location lets you easily switch between the three power modes—CleanSense IQ (Auto), Eco, and Boost—when holding the handle.
Performance: During our testing, the Shark Stratos Cordless was challenged with various dried foods and daily debris. The cordless vacuum took it all in its stride. While there was a split second of lag for the CleanSense IQ to kick in when needed, we were impressed by the accuracy of dirt detection - and the suction didn't fade until all the dirt was removed.
The Eco and Boost modes do not have this automatic suction adjustment. The vacuum picked up the sugar and puffed rice in one pass over, and none was blown out of the way as it plowed through the mess. Not only did the floorhead remove debris, but it also lifted hair from hard floors and carpets without strands getting in a tangle around the two brushrolls.
As we vacuumed around, the odor neutralizer left a fresh scent in the air, which, along with the anti-hair wrap tech, would be great for homes with resident pets. The powerful suction was consistent throughout the 60-minute runtime, and a recharge took just 3 hours from zero.
Maintenance: The 0.18-gallon / 0.7L dust cup will need emptying after every other vacuum, and the filters will need a cleaning every three months. The odor-neutralizer capsule will also need replacing after six months of use. It can be stored by folding the Multi-Flex wand, which makes it perfect where space is limited in the home. The battery can also be charged while the cordless vacuum is in storage.
Value: The Shark Stratos has a listed price of $499.99 and can be bought directly from Shark or various popular resellers. It's a 2022 model, which I've seen discounted throughout the year, so keep an eye out for any discounts in the holiday sales.
Read our full Shark Stratos Cordless review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly | The Shark Stratos easily clips altogether, yet installing the odor neutralizer took a few attempts | ★★★★½ |
| Design | It's pretty perfect but we feel that some may struggle with the weight of the floorhead and / or prefer a different odor | ★★★★½ |
| Performance | We can't fault it. All debris on-test was lifted, and no hair became wrapped around the brushbars. | ★★★★★ |
| Maintenance | Minimal effort is required to maintain this stick vacuum | ★★★★★ |
The best cordless vacuum for deep cleaning
✅ You like smart features: auto-sensing technology and auto-empty system make cleaning easy.
✅ You have hard-to-clean areas: DirtDetect, FloorDetect, LightDetect, and EdgeDetect sensors provide thorough cleaning.
✅ You want something easy to store: lightweight and compact design allows for easy storage in small spaces.
❌ You need to clean under things: the vacuum's shaft doesn't bend for easy cleaning under furniture.
❌ Your mobility is limited: you might need to stoop down to reach under beds, dressers, etc.
❌ You're on a budget: the vacuum's price point may be too high for some.
🔎 The Shark Cordless Detect Pro boasts auto-sensing technology, an auto-empty system, and DirtDetect, FloorDetect, LightDetect, and EdgeDetect sensors. The assembly is straightforward, and the vacuum is lightweight and easy to store. The vacuum's performance is powerful and efficient, with minimal maintenance required ★★★★½
Our top pick for the best cordless vacuum for deep cleaning is the Shark Cordless Detect Pro. During testing, our reviewer was highly impressed with the vacuum's auto-sensing technology and its auto-empty system. We loved the vacuum's excellent performance and various features, including its DirtDetect, FloorDetect, LightDetect, and EdgeDetect technologies, as well as its multiple suction modes.
Assembly: The Shark vacuum is designed to reduce waste, with assembly instructions conveniently printed on the box. Still, the vacuum is so easy to assemble that the instructions are unnecessary. Connecting the shaft, handheld vacuum, and vacuum head takes just five minutes. The auto-empty station comes in two pieces that are easily connected, and it even includes a crevice tool and a Pet Multi-Tool brush. An Odor Neutralizer Technology piece is the final addition to the station.
Design: The Shark Cordless Detect Pro is a lightweight and modern-looking vacuum with a compact design that allows storage in small spaces like the corner of a kitchen or slim closet. The auto-empty station is impressive and works flawlessly, even when the filter is covered in dust or hair.
However, Alex felt the vacuum has two design flaws: the shaft doesn’t bend for easy under-furniture cleaning, and the vacuum head lock mechanism tends to lock if vacuumed too close to the body.
Performance: The vacuum is powerful and efficient, offering three levels of suction power. The DirtDetect Sensor is a great feature that automatically boosts the suction power when it recognizes hidden dirt, and the LightDetect sensor, EdgeDetect Sensor, FloorDetect sensor, and DirtDetect sensor can conveniently be used in auto mode.
With a runtime of up to 60 minutes, the eco mode is perfect for a thorough cleaning session, and the vacuum head swivels easily, allowing you to easily vacuum in corners and around furniture legs.
Maintenance: The auto-empty station of the cordless vacuum conveniently collects all the dirt and dust, freeing you from the hassle of frequently emptying the bin. The station can hold up to 30 days' worth of dirt, and it charges the vacuum every time it's placed on the station.
The vacuum requires minimal maintenance, with only occasional rinsing and filter replacement needed. Pre-motor and auto-empty filters require monthly cleaning, while the HEPA filter should be replaced annually. The DirtDetect, LightDetect, and EdgeDetect sensors must be cleaned monthly to remove debris and hair that may obstruct the sensors.
Read our full Shark Cordless Detect Pro review
| Attribute | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly | Easy to put together | ★★★★★ |
| Design | Sleek, modern, and lightweight with attachments; would be perfect if the shaft could bend to reach underneath beds, dressers, etc. | ★★★★ |
| Performance | Powerful and versatile vacuum with self-emptying technology. | ★★★★½ |
| Maintenance | Only needs emptying every 30 days; washable filters | ★★★★½ |
The best value cordless vacuum
✅ You have pets: It comes with an anti-tangle roller brush that makes it ideal for pet owners.
✅ You want something easy: It comes with a large LED display that shows the battery life and suction gear you're using, and a green headlight that helps pick out fine particles on hard floors.
✅ You're on a budget: The Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum is a budget-friendly option that offers good value for money.
❌ You want a range of accessories: The Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum comes with only two accessories - a crevice tool and a dust brush.
❌ You have a large home: Although the Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum offers up to 60 minutes of runtime, the battery life can be shorter depending on the suction gear you're using.
❌ You need something heavy-duty: The Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum is not designed for heavy-duty cleaning tasks such as cleaning carpets and upholstery.
🔎 The Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum is an excellent and affordable option for those seeking a high-quality cordless vacuum. It performed exceptionally well in our at-home testing, and we believe it to be a great alternative to pricier models from Dyson or Shark ★★★★½
If you are looking for a budget cordless vacuum that doesn't compromise performance, the Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum could be a great option. This sleek and stylish cordless vacuum has features that make it stand out. It has a five-stage filtration system, a large LED display, and a transparent dust cup that helps you see when it's time to empty it. The P12 is designed to tackle pet hair, dust, and mud, with up to 60 minutes of runtime.
Assembly: The Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum is easy to assemble and comes with all the parts and accessories neatly packaged in cardboard. It has a good battery life, and the filters have already been installed. The manual is helpful and has instructions in multiple languages.
Design: The Proscenic P12 Cordless Vacuum is a sleek and stylish cordless vacuum that looks more expensive than it is. It's lightweight and boasts a transparent dust cup with a five-stage filtration system. The large LED display at the top shows the battery life and suction gear you're using, and it includes a green headlight to help pick out fine particles on hard floors.
It has a crevice tool and a dust brush, but the accessories are limited. The vacuum offers up to 60 minutes of runtime and features an anti-tangle roller brush, making it ideal for pet owners.
Performance: During testing, we were impressed with how the Proscenic P12 vacuum tackled pet hair, mud, and dust. It has an automatic setting that starts at level 2, and it did a great job on carpets and hard floors. We also tested it on flour, cookie crumbs, and oatmeal, and it picked up almost everything on the first pass.
The accessories included work well, but there aren't many of them. It's also pretty quiet compared to other vacuums we've used. The battery lasts around 33 minutes, and the dust cup is easy to empty.
Maintenance: To keep your Proscenic vacuum performing its best, clean the dustbin after every use and rinse the filter in water. Give the filter a thorough clean once a week. And don't forget to detach and clean the roller brush. The process can seem tricky the first time, but it's worth it for the results. Plus, the P12 comes with a 1-year warranty.
Value: The Proscenic P12 is a reasonably priced cordless vacuum with dust-detecting headlights. It might not have as many accessories as some others, but it's easy to maneuver and does its job well. The Dyson V12 is powerful but pricier, while the Aspiron is cheaper but lacks some extras. The Levoit VortexIQ 40 has automated suction power.
Read more: Proscenic P12 review
The best cordless vacuum for large homes
✅ You want something versatile: this multi-tasking vacuum is suitable for all floor types with numerous attachments.
✅ You value efficiency: it offers powerful suction and top-notch performance on various surfaces.
✅ You're looking for value: the vacuum offers two batteries and a host of useful accessories.
❌ You have limited storage space: the vacuum is bulky and takes up a lot of storage space.
❌ You have hard floors: the soft roller brush is ideal for collecting finer dust but less effective for larger debris like oats.
❌ You want a good handheld mode: when used as a handheld, the vacuum can feel heavy and cumbersome, especially in tight spaces.
🔎 The Tineco Pure One S12 Pro EX is a great cordless vacuum with smart technology and two batteries for non-stop cleaning. It has an intuitive setup, numerous attachments, and impressive performance on various surfaces. While it may not be ideal for those with limited storage space or those who only need a vacuum for hard floors, it offers great value for money with its latest features and accessories ★★★★½
With its smart technology and two batteries for non-stop cleaning, the Tineco Pure One S12 Pro EX is perfect for tackling any mess, no matter how big. However, remember that if you have limited storage space or only need a vacuum for hard floors, this model may not fit you best.
Assembly: The Tineco cordless vacuum has easily recyclable cardboard packaging with minimal plastic bags and foam pieces. Helen found the setup process simple as it requires no assembly except for attaching the accessories to the main body. The vacuum includes a wall-mounted charging dock that charges both the vacuum's and spare batteries.
The setup is intuitive, and the vacuum has a large LED screen that alerts you to any issues. The instruction manual contains all the necessary information, but the Tineco app offers additional functionality and information.
Design: The S12 Pro EX has numerous attachments, making it a multi-tasking vacuum suitable for all floor types. The power level can be adjusted via a touch-sensitive slider on the top of the vacuum, and it's equipped with an auto mode that increases the power when it detects heavily soiled areas.
The large, round LED display screen shows the battery level, the current suction power, and the iLoop graphic, informing you of particularly dirty areas. Helen also found the app connectivity and filter usage feature helpful. It's not the loudest nor the quietest vacuum, with a noise level of 77dB on max suction.
Performance: The vacuum impressed Helen (and the wider team) with its powerful suction and top-notch performance on various surfaces. The soft roller brush is ideal for collecting finer dust but less effective for larger debris like oats. The mini power brush is perfect for stairs, sofas, and even car carpets, and all of the extra tools are useful for cleaning tricky areas.
However, when used as a handheld, it can feel heavy, especially in tight spaces. Overall, the vacuum is well-balanced and lightweight, with good maneuverability and transitions between different floor types. The iLoop feature is useful in detecting high levels of dust and dirt.
Maintenance: The S12 Pro EX has two batteries, allowing you to alternate between them. One battery lasts up to nine minutes on max suction, but the auto mode can increase battery life. The dustbin has a capacity of 0.13 gallons and needs to be emptied frequently, especially if there is a lot of tangled hair inside, and the filters can be washed periodically with replacements available on the Tineco website.
The vacuum has a wall-mounted storage dock, but it can only hold three small tools, and the unit is bulky when not wall-mounted.
Value: The Tineco Pure One S12 Pro EX is a premium smart vacuum with the latest features and accessories. The price is slightly lower than the Dyson V15 Detect, but it offers great value for money with two batteries and a host of useful accessories.
Read our full Tineco Pure One S12 Pro EX review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly | Eco-Friendly Packaging; Simple Setup | ★★★★½ |
| Design | Multiple Attachments; Touch-Sensitive Slider; Large LED Display | ★★★★ |
| Performance | Powerful Suction; Soft Roller Brush; iLoop Detection | ★★★★½ |
| Maintenance | Additional Battery Provided; Bulky to Store; Needs Frequent Emptying | ★★★★ |
The best cordless vacuum with AI
✅ You want efficiency: the AI mode and powerful suction promise a quick and thorough clean.
✅ You have varied floor types: its array of tools and brushes make it great for any surface.
✅ You want smart tech: the Samsung Bespoke Jet's AI capabilities and connectivity offer a futuristic cleaning experience.
❌ You lack storage space: the Bespoke Jet's size and Clean Station may be difficult to store in smaller homes.
❌ You're on a budget: the high price may put this out of reach for some people.
❌ Weight is an issue: the top-heavy design can be difficult to manage if you have mobility issues with your wrists and hands.
🔎 The Samsung Bespoke Jet AI is a technologically advanced vacuum that offers powerful cleaning and smart design, albeit with a premium price tag ★★★★
The best cordless vacuum with AI is the Samsung Bespoke Jet. It blends style and smart technology with AI-powered capabilities to provide an efficient cleaning experience.
Assembly: The Samsung Bespoke Jet AI package—which weighs a hefty 36lb / 16.4kg—contains the vacuum in 15 separate pieces situated between two polystyrene layers. Our reviewer, Katie, spent several minutes removing all the different pieces and a further 10 minutes putting the vacuum together because it didn't come with step-by-step instructions.
The User Guide provides a labeled diagram of 24 different vacuum parts and what they should look like assembled, along with a list and pictures of the 16 accessories. Still, unless you watch Samsung’s ‘How To’ video, you'll waste a lot of time trying to figure it out.
Design: The Samsung Bespoke Jet AI's design offers a good mix of style and substance. Its matte black finish with a subtle wave pattern gives it an air of luxury – which is welcomed, given its high price tag – and the vacuum is surprisingly lightweight.
This makes it easy to lift and move around the rooms of your house. The vacuum and its Clean Station weigh 6.3 lbs / 2.9kg, but the station takes up a large proportion of this. The Clean Station offers a hygienic and quick emptying process, and the dustbin itself is positioned at the top of an adjustable pipe, just lower than the handle.
While this positioning feels fine when the dustbin is empty, Katie found that as it fills up, it makes the stick rather top-heavy, making our hands, wrists, and arms feel tired quickly. This dustbin holds 0.5 liters of dust and dirt, plus another two liters of space in the Clean Station.
You can extend the vacuum's length at the press of a button—from 23 inches to 31 inches—and the LCD digital at the top of the handle clearly shows you what mode you're using and how much battery you have left.
Performance: The Samsung Bespoke Jet AI has five modes, including an AI setting that adjusts suction based on your floor type. The 280 W HexaJet Motor easily tackles different surfaces, and the LED-lit brushes illuminate hidden debris.
While the AI mode is designed to conserve energy, Katie found that it occasionally struggled with larger debris on hard floors during our testing. The various attachments, from crevice tools to pet hair brushes, extend the vacuum's versatility, ensuring it can handle whatever is thrown. Still, they require a lot of storage space.
Maintenance: The Samsung Bespoke Jet AI's maintenance is easy thanks to the addition of its Clean Station. The washable dustbin and filter also help make the whole process easy, but it can take 24 hours for them to dry, so make sure you wash them when you don't plan to use the vacuum for a while.
The SmartThings app provides digital support for tracking cleaning history and performing self-diagnosis, which can help extend the vacuum's lifespan. However, the physical LCD screen remains a quick go-to for mode adjustments.
Value: At $999.99, the Samsung Bespoke Jet AI sits at the premium end of the vacuum market. Its advanced AI technology, robust suction power, and comprehensive toolset justify the price if you're looking for top-tier tech. However, if you have simpler needs or budget constraints, the vacuum's high-end features may seem like great value for money.
Read our full Samsung Bespoke Jet AI review
| Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Assembly | Time-consuming setup with no step-by-step guide. | ★★★ |
| Design | Sleek, user-friendly design; bulky Clean Station. | ★★★★ |
| Performance | Powerful suction with versatile modes, struggles with larger debris. | ★★★★ |
| Maintenance | Hygienic, easy maintenance with washable components. | ★★★★ |
How to choose the best cordless vacuum for you
How we tested the best cordless vacuums
How we tested the best cordless vacuums
We are thorough when it comes to reviewing cordless vacuum. They are a more popular vacuum type due to their versatility and flexibility. A cordless vacuum could even be considered a 'smart' product, with some make and models boasting AI, self-emptying, and self-cleaning specifications to (theoretically) make vacuuming your home easier.
We test all of this. Over a minimum of three weeks, we vacuum the floors, stairs, and those hard-to-reach places to give the product a run for its money. We test for how easy it is to assemble, the quality of the clean it provides, and what level of maintenance is involved. The products are challenged with daily dirt and debris such as dried mud, hair, and accidentally spilled dried foods, along with more specific, concentrated tests that involve purposefully pouring oats, sugar, and/or flour onto the floor.
How we write up our reviews is in sections for price and availability, design, and performance, which not only makes our findings easier to digest for the reader but also gives us the option to score the cordless vacuum marked against these criteria. This is a mark out of 5. An overall score is then summarised, helping you to select the best cordless vacuum to suit your budget and requirements. Read more about how we test.
