Cordless vs. Corded Vacuums: Which One is Truly Worth Buying?

There's a moment in every adult's life that brings a thrill: buying a shiny, new vacuum. What’s more exciting than clicking ‘Order Now’ on a tool that will keep your space spotless week after week? Nothing beats that.

When you start exploring the vast selection of vacuums, it’s essential to be armed with key knowledge. The first decision you’ll face is choosing between corded and cordless vacuums: What are the advantages and disadvantages of plug-in models versus the freedom offered by battery-powered ones?

Below is a breakdown of both vacuum types—and the essential points experts think you should be aware of.

Flexibility and Convenience

A key advantage of cordless vacuums is their portability. Without being connected to a cord, you can easily move around your house. You won’t need to search for available outlets either. This convenience makes cordless vacuums a tempting choice, though they do eventually run out of battery. A typical stick vacuum lasts between 30 minutes and 1 hour before requiring a recharge, unlike corded models which don’t face this issue.

“Cordless vacuums, or stick vacuums, are perfect for quickly tackling small spills without the hassle of cords,” says Erin Lawrence, tech reviewer at Tech Gadgets International. “They use rechargeable batteries and often come apart into smaller sections, which makes them easier to store compared to a traditional corded upright or canister.”

Dust Capacity and Cleaning Performance

Whether you're purchasing a corded vacuum or a battery-powered stick vacuum, each model comes with varying dust capacities. This is particularly crucial for pet owners, says Cory Hankins, CEO of North Carolina-based House of Vacuums, a company specializing in vacuum sales, service, and repairs.

Pet dander from dogs and cats is oil-based, whereas human dead skin cells are more powdery, explains Hankins. These dust types clog vacuums in different ways due to the design of the machine. “The odors people complain about, especially when pets are involved, are due to dander accumulation inside the vacuum. There are countless models of stick vacuums, each with distinct cleaning methods.” It's essential to verify if the cordless stick vacuum you’re considering has an air filter, which Hankins emphasizes as a key feature of a good model.

In contrast, corded vacuums offer larger dust storage capacities. This makes them better for deep cleaning and handling larger messes—resulting in greater cleaning efficiency.

Price and Maintenance

Cordless and corded vacuums come in a wide range of prices, but generally, stick vacuums are more affordable than their heavier, plug-in counterparts. A high-quality cordless vacuum can range from $100 to $600, though prices can vary. On the other hand, quality corded vacuums start around $200 and can exceed $1,500, depending on your cleaning requirements.

Maintenance should also be a consideration when purchasing a vacuum. Delah Gomasi, who creates the standard operating procedures for cleaning teams at the Sydney-based cleaning service MaidForYou, mentions that stick vacuum owners will need to empty their canisters more often.

“For maintenance, we always ensure we empty the dust canister after each use,” Gomasi explains. “We clean our vacuum filters every month to prevent the vacuum from smelling like dust and to keep it running efficiently. Additionally, we inspect and clean the dust roll to remove any debris, particularly in homes with pets that we’ve just cleaned.”

Key Lifestyle Considerations When Choosing a Vacuum

Flooring Type and Home Size

The size of your home and the type of flooring you have are essential factors in choosing the right vacuum. Gomasi suggests that a stick vacuum can serve as a secondary option, but for certain living spaces, a larger, corded vacuum may not be necessary.

“If you’re a single person with no carpet, that little stick vacuum will do the job,” Hankins suggests.

Apartments under 600 square feet with mostly wood flooring (and just a few rugs) can rely on a cordless model as their main vacuum. For larger spaces, or homes with carpeting, experts recommend opting for a corded vacuum instead.

Cleaning Requirements and Frequency

Do you have pets or children? Are you prone to spills and messes? Your cleaning needs and how often you’ll need to vacuum each month should be considered when selecting your vacuum.

Budget and Long-Term Investment

You might be tempted to spend $150 on a reliable stick vacuum for your small apartment rather than shell out over $400 for a bulky corded model. However, consider the long-term value of your investment. If you're planning to move soon or reside in a larger home, spending more initially could be worth it for a quality machine that will last. Cordless vacuums typically last between three to five years, while corded versions can keep going for at least eight years.

Your final vacuum choice depends on several factors. However, vacuum experts all share one key piece of advice: Own both.

“Many people mistakenly believe that vacuums like the Dyson sticks, Sharks, Bissels, and Miele TriFlex will replace a traditional plug-in vacuum, regardless of their home's size or needs—but that's not the case,” Hankins points out.

In the end, Hankins recommends owning one of each type—cordless stick vacuums for quick, everyday cleanups and a larger plug-in model for more thorough cleaning sessions around the house.