The Top Cordless Vacuums We’ve Reviewed

Top Pick

The Tineco Pure One S11 comes packed with features that earned it the title of best overall in our evaluations. This lightweight cordless vacuum is equipped with iLoop Smart Sensor technology, which identifies dirt and adjusts its suction for maximum effectiveness. We particularly appreciated the front light, making it easy to spot debris while cleaning.

We were also impressed by the long-lasting battery, which powered through an entire cleaning session without needing a recharge. The removable battery pack gives you the option to purchase an extra battery for extended cleaning time.

The vacuum's front-facing LED lights were a useful feature, providing better visibility in tight spaces under furniture. It also has an LED display that shows the remaining battery life and alerts you when it's time to clean the brush roller, filter, air channel, and dust sensor.

While using the vacuum, we were pleased with how quiet it was, allowing us to converse without disruption. The vacuum easily converts to a handheld model and includes four attachments: a mini power brush, a 2-in-1 dusting brush, a crevice tool, and a hair cleaning tool.

During testing, the vacuum had some difficulty picking up larger debris, such as Cheerios, but the suction power was generally strong. There were also a couple of challenges when emptying the dustbin: We needed two hands to release the latch, and some hair tangled in the roller, but we were able to cut it out using the provided tool.

All in all, we were impressed with the vacuum's runtime and versatility, which earned it the title of our top choice for a cordless vacuum.

Weight: 5.7 lbs | Dustbin Capacity: 0.6 liters | HEPA Filtration: Yes | Battery Life: 40 minutes | Charging Duration: 3 hours | Included Accessories: Mini power brush, 2-in-1 dusting brush, crevice tool, and hair cleaning tool

Top Upgrade

The Dyson Gen5detect ranks as the priciest cordless vacuum on our list, yet its premium features justify the cost. We appreciated the built-in crevice and dusting tools, the HEPA filter that captures nearly all dust, allergens, and even viruses, along with its powerful suction across various surfaces.

During our testing, the price of this cordless vacuum proved its worth, as it effectively cleaned all debris in a single pass. We were especially impressed by its seamless adaptation to different floor types when switched to Auto mode.

We were also impressed by the Digital MotorbarTM cleaner, which includes an extra head that helps eliminate hair from the brush bar as it rotates thanks to its hair removal veins. However, one downside we noticed was that the battery life significantly decreased when we used Boost mode for maximum power.

The vacuum comes equipped with built-in crevice and dusting tools, making it incredibly convenient. When you detach the wand, these tools are ready for use as a handheld vacuum. Additionally, the hair screw tool helps remove both pet and human hair from surfaces, preventing frustrating tangles.

One feature that stood out to us was the green light on the Fluffy OpticTM roller, which makes dust and debris easier to see for a more thorough clean. Ultimately, if you're looking for efficiency-enhancing features, this cordless Dyson vacuum is the perfect choice.

Weight: 7.7 pounds | Bin Capacity: 0.8 liters | HEPA Filtration: Yes | Run Time: 70 minutes | Charging Time: 4.5 hours | Attachments: Combination tool, hair screw tool

Ideal for Hard Floors

The Levoit VortexIQTM 40 Cordless Stick Vacuum quickly impressed us with its powerful suction that picked up all debris on the first pass. No need for multiple sweeps—this proved to be a massive time-saver during daily cleaning routines.

We appreciated that the vacuum automatically adjusts its suction power based on the amount of debris. While we recommended it for hard surfaces, we found it to be quite effective on carpet as well, easily picking up 100% of the debris.

The headlights illuminated our cleaning path, helping us see exactly how much dirt, dust, and debris we were collecting during testing. However, while this feature helped us spot debris, there wasn't an option to turn the lights off.

The swivel head was highly flexible, which made it easy to maneuver around furniture, though steering it could be a bit challenging. Despite these minor issues, this is still an excellent choice for anyone needing a vacuum specifically for tile, wood, or other hard flooring.

Weight: 7.1 pounds | Bin Capacity: 0.6 liters | HEPA Filtration: Yes Run Time: 40 minutes | Charging Time: 4–5 hours | Attachments: 2-in-1 dusting brush and telescopic crevice tool

Ideal for Carpet Cleaning

The Dreametech R20 Cordless Stick Vacuum is equipped with two brush heads: a soft roller brush and a V-shaped multi-surface brush. This allows you to clean all areas of your home, whether it's hardwood or carpet. During our tests, we appreciated how effortlessly it switched from hardwood to medium-pile carpet and performed well even on high-pile carpet, picking up hair without any issues.

Along with its versatility on various floor types, this cordless model also transforms into a handheld vacuum for easy furniture cleaning. Additionally, it features a dirt detection system that automatically adjusts suction power based on the surface type you're cleaning.

While the Dreametech R20 Cordless Stick Vacuum left some debris behind, it efficiently picked up all the hair during our test. The multi-surface brush with a blue LED light that highlights dirt in its path was another feature we really liked.

After six months of using the Dreametech R20, it continues to be our go-to for cleaning up small crumbs and debris around the house. The long battery life allows us to use it several times on a single charge, which is convenient because we can keep it in one place and easily return it to the charger. While we wish it were a little lighter, we still appreciate the vacuum’s strength and features that make cleaning much easier.

Weight: 10.1 pounds | Bin Capacity: 0.6 liters | HEPA Filtration: Yes | Run Time: 90 minutes | Charging Time: 4 hours | Attachments: Crevice nozzle, motorized mini-brush, and wide combination tool

Best Lightweight

Weighing just 4.2 pounds, the Dyson Omni-Glide Cordless Vacuum Cleaner makes it easy to carry up and down stairs. During our tests, we appreciated its 360-degree rotating neck and wheels, which made it easy to maneuver, and its ability to provide 20 minutes of powerful suction per charge.

This model is highly versatile, transforming into a handheld vacuum for cleaning furniture. Additionally, all its non-electric parts—including the bin, filter, and Fluffy™ roller—are washable, so there's no need to buy replacement filters, and maintenance is a breeze.

In our tests, this vacuum captured 99% of the debris. However, when cleaning larger areas, we found ourselves needing to empty the dust cup more often. It features a ‘point and shoot’ mechanism for ejecting debris directly into the trash, yet we still had to manually remove hair collected by the vacuum.

We were impressed with the lightweight design of this vacuum and its ability to effectively clean small messes. However, the small dust cup and its focus on hard floors make it less ideal for cleaning larger spaces or carpets. Nevertheless, we appreciated how the combi-crevice tool helped pick up remaining debris after each cleaning.

Weight: 4.2 pounds | Bin Capacity: 0.2 liters | HEPA Filtration: No | Run Time: 20 minutes | Charging Time: Not listed | Attachments: Combi-crevice tool

Best Vacuum Mop

The Shark VACMOP stands as the only cordless vacuum in our selection that also functions as a mop. Positioned at the more affordable end of the cordless vacuum spectrum, it’s an excellent entry point for those new to cordless vacuums. This mop feature is ideal for all sealed hard flooring types, including marble, linoleum, and hardwood floors.

One notable observation is that this vacuum operates louder than most cordless vacuums, making it difficult to hold a conversation while it's running. Although it captured most of the debris during testing, a considerable amount was left behind, requiring multiple passes. The mopping function worked well, but with only 12 minutes of runtime, we had to move quickly.

Instead of a dustbin, the floor pads are designed to capture dirt during vacuuming and mopping, trapping debris as it's suctioned and wiped. Depending on where you buy the Shark VACMOP, it may come with extra disposable pads, which can be detached with a convenient one-click mechanism. Keep in mind that purchasing replacement pads will add to the overall cost of this option.

Weight: 3.34 pounds | Bin Capacity: N/A | HEPA Filtration: No | Run Time: 12 minutes | Charging Time: hours | Attachments: None

Top Self-Emptying Feature

The Shark Wandvac features a sleek design, as it self-empties upon contact with the HEPA-sealed base after each use, eliminating the need for a visible dustbin. With the self-emptying capability, you don’t have to empty the dustbin after every use, though the base will need periodic emptying.

Though the self-emptying feature is the main selling point, this vacuum also offers the option to manually empty the dust cup. We opted for this method occasionally during cleaning to avoid returning the vacuum to the base each time it required emptying.

While we appreciated the vacuum’s self-emptying function, its noise level was noticeably higher than other models we tested, making it tough to converse while using it. However, it performed excellently during tests, picking up food, hair, and debris in just a few passes. A strange issue occurred on our first use, as the vacuum kept shutting off, signaling that it needed to be emptied. The second time, it ran smoothly without issues.

The Shark WandVac comes equipped with a self-cleaning brushroll with PowerFinsTM, designed to clean both hard floors and carpets, making it an ideal choice for various surfaces. The hand vac weighs only 2.1 pounds when detached, and the vacuum includes a duster crevice tool and a pet multi-tool for cleaning around the house. However, with a 16-minute runtime, it’s best suited for smaller cleaning jobs.

Weight: 13.9 pounds | Bin Capacity: 0.12 liter | HEPA Filtration: Yes | Run Time: 16 minutes | Charging Time: hours | Attachments: Duster crevice tool, pet multi-tool

Perfect for Pet Hair

Tineco’s ZeroTangle brush is specifically designed for pet hair removal, making it our top choice for tackling fur. Throughout our six-month testing, we only had to manually remove hair once. It performed excellently with other debris and proved easy to maneuver around obstacles. Plus, it’s a breeze to empty and features a lever to clear any hair that might get caught in the filter.

The vacuum’s auto-sense function detects the level of dirt on your floors, helping you focus on the areas that need extra attention. Additionally, the headlights on the brush illuminate the cleaning area, ensuring you don’t miss any spots, especially when picking up white dog hair. This thoughtful feature provides excellent visibility during cleaning sessions.

After six months of using this vacuum, we still love it for its strong suction power. However, we've noticed it performs best on hard floors rather than carpets. It’s effective on low-pile area rugs, but it struggles a bit more with thicker carpets. While we’re still unsure about the voice commands, we do appreciate how it automatically detects dirt levels on the floor and lets us know when the cleaning is done.

Weight: 6.8 pounds | Bin Capacity: 0.5 liters | HEPA Filtration: Yes | Run Time: 40 minutes | Charging Time: 4 hours | Attachments: 2-in-1 dusting brush, mini-power brush, crevice tool, hair cleaning tool

Final Review

Following our tests, we found that the Tineco Pure One S11 Smart Stick/Handheld Vacuum offers an excellent balance of affordability, maneuverability, cleaning power, and battery life. Another standout option for its premium quality and cleaning performance is the Dyson Outsize+ Cordless vacuum. Its larger size is ideal for spacious areas, and its strong suction power effectively removes dirt and debris from corners and hard-to-reach spots.

Our Evaluation Approach

We assessed several cordless vacuum models from top brands, analyzing factors such as setup time, weight, noise levels, cleaning effectiveness, maneuverability, battery longevity, and the range of attachments.

To evaluate the ease of setup, we measured the time taken to assemble each vacuum (if required) and noted the clarity of the instructions. Additionally, we weighed each vacuum using a luggage scale and measured the noise output with a decibel meter at different settings.

During our testing, we put each vacuum through its paces on both hard floors and carpets. We tracked how long it took to fully clean 100% of the dirt and debris, noting the percentage removed on the first pass compared to subsequent passes. We also evaluated maneuverability, paying attention to how easily each vacuum swivelled and whether it was difficult to move around the house.

Each vacuum came with various attachments, which we tested on upholstery as well as shelves and crevices that tend to collect dust. We also checked how easy it was to empty the dustbin and how frequently it needed to be emptied. Additionally, if the vacuum offered different settings, we tested how each one affected battery life.

Our testing continued for six months to evaluate the durability of each vacuum model over time. After gathering a solid lineup, we considered the price of each device to determine if their performance justified the cost.

Expert Tips for Shopping for Cordless Vacuums

Battery Performance

When choosing a cordless vacuum, battery life is a key factor since these devices depend on charging for use. You don’t want to keep plugging it in because of a short battery life.

“For an average home of about 2,000 square feet, I recommend at least 30 minutes of battery life,” suggests Riley. “This should be enough to clean all your floors at a normal pace.”

For larger homes or users who may move more slowly, Riley advises looking for vacuums that offer 45-60 minutes of runtime or those with replaceable batteries.

Ease of Movement

Cordless vacuums provide great flexibility due to their cordless design, but it's equally important to consider how easily they can maneuver. Most of the models we tried featured a swivel head that allowed them to rotate while cleaning, making it easier to clean around furniture and under tables and chairs.

Think about the space beneath your furniture before making a purchase to ensure the vacuum will fit. Some cordless models have a low-profile brush head that slides under couches and chairs, while others come with attachments that help reach tight or hard-to-access spots.

Dustbin Capacity

The size of a cordless vacuum's dustbin can influence how often you have to pause to empty it. Riley generally expects a smaller dustbin, noting that this becomes a concern mainly for pet owners with heavy shedding.

In cases where a larger dustbin is needed, Riley advises not to overlook smaller options. 'They're typically quick to empty, so I don't let that alone sway my choice,' he says.

When assessing bin capacity, take into account the size of your home and the amount of debris you'll deal with daily. For quick, nightly cleaning, a larger bin may not be necessary if you’re vacuuming the entire house just once or twice a week.

Alternatively, you could opt for a self-emptying model, but this may require more frequent returns to the docking station if you prefer not to empty the bin manually.

Suction Strength

Suction power in cordless vacuums can differ based on the brand or model, but Riley recommends a minimum of 100AW for optimal performance. Additionally, some cordless vacuums feature auto-sensing technology, which automatically adjusts the suction depending on the amount of debris being picked up.

You can manually adjust the suction power when needed for more or less force, but be aware that the battery life indicated on the product is generally based on the lowest or standard suction setting. Using the vacuum on the highest suction mode will deplete the battery more quickly.

Floor Compatibility

Most cordless vacuums are designed to work on a variety of flooring surfaces, but the ease with which they transition between different types depends largely on the brush roller. Many models come with interchangeable brush heads suited for different floor types. “It’s also beneficial to choose a vacuum that allows you to switch between floor modes,” Riley suggests.

Some vacuums excel on hard floors while others perform better on carpets. Before selecting the right vacuum for your home, take into account the ratio of carpeted areas to hard floors, then pick a model optimized for the surfaces you use it on most frequently.

Also, consider that certain vacuums may be more adept at cleaning various types of rugs, particularly those with automatic suction adjustment. In some instances, you may need to reduce the suction power for smaller rugs to prevent the vacuum from lifting them up during use.

Additional Cordless Vacuums to Explore

Tineco FLOOR ONE S2 Smart Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum: At 13.2 pounds, this wet/dry vacuum is on the heavier side compared to some of the other cordless models we evaluated. It features a dual-tank system that separates clean and dirty water, and includes a self-cleaning function to ensure the vacuum stays clean and operates at its best. While we slightly prefer the Shark Vacmop for its lighter weight and convenient one-touch mop pad disposal, the Tineco Floor One Wet/Dry vacuum remains a great option if you're after more automated features like adjustable suction, roller speed, and water flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cordless vacuums as powerful as corded upright vacuums?

Riley explains, “cordless vacuums may not match the power of corded ones, but they don't need to.” The primary advantage of cordless vacuums is their user-friendliness and suitability for quick cleaning tasks. This convenience encourages more frequent cleaning, which Riley finds helps maintain a cleaner environment.

How long does a cordless vacuum battery last?

Cordless vacuum batteries typically last between 20 and 40 minutes, though some models may last longer or shorter. When choosing the right cordless vacuum for your needs, consider the size of your home and the level of difficulty of the cleaning tasks. This will help you select a vacuum with a battery life that matches your cleaning requirements. Keep in mind that battery life is usually measured at the vacuum's lowest or standard setting, so using it at a higher setting will deplete the battery more quickly.

Can you replace a cordless vacuum battery?

Yes, you can replace the battery in most cordless vacuums. Some models include a second battery, while for others, you can purchase an extra battery separately to ensure you always have a charged one ready to use when needed.

Take Our Word for It

This article was written by Stephanie Mickelson, an appliance writer for Mytour. With two years of experience researching and writing about products, she thoroughly investigates the features, pros, and cons of various products.

To create this list, we tested and reviewed several cordless vacuums, assessing their setup complexity, user-friendliness, suction power, attachment functionality, and weight. Stephanie also consulted with Taylor Riley, founder of Boom Facility Service Advisors and co-owner of Impact Cleaning Professionals, to gain insights into the key features to consider when selecting the best cordless vacuum.