Old-fashioned upright vacuums often fell short in meeting consumer expectations, but cordless models are addressing many of those issues. These vacuums are generally more slender, lightweight, and easier to maneuver around the home, without a compromise in suction power. Unlike in the past, where Dyson was the primary player, the market now offers a diverse range of options. However, this variety can also result in decision fatigue. Engadget has tested numerous top-tier cordless stick vacuums and compiled recommendations to simplify the selection process, along with purchasing guidance to help identify the most suitable model.
Best Cordless Vacuums for 2024
Dyson V15 Detect
Features:
- Suction power: 240AW
- Bin capacity: 0.2 gallon
- Battery life: 60 minutes
- Weight: 6.83 pounds
- Charging dock: Yes
The Dyson V15 Detect stands out due to its exceptional suction power. A notable feature is the laser "blade" on the Fluffy Optic cleaner head, designed to illuminate dirt on floors. The vacuum also includes a Digital Motorbar head that detangles hair automatically, suitable for all floor types. While the light feature is limited to the Fluffy Optic head, the V15 Detect’s piezo acoustic sensor registers particle sizes, displaying this on an LCD. With modes like Auto, Eco, and Boost, it adapts to different cleaning needs. However, it requires continuous pressure on the trigger to operate, a minor drawback considering its overall performance. Priced at $750, it’s a premium yet valuable choice.
Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty System
Features:
- Battery life: 70 minutes
- Weight: 18 pounds
- Charging dock: Yes
Shark’s PowerDetect model, priced at $500, offers significant value with strong suction power and a self-emptying base. It auto-adjusts suction based on floor type and debris volume, featuring edge detection for increased power along walls. The "multiflex" attachment enhances maneuverability under furniture. Despite being potentially challenging on carpets, it efficiently collects debris and illuminates messes with a built-in headlight.
Tineco Pure One S11
Features:
- Suction power: 450W
- Bin capacity: 0.15 gallon
- Battery life: 40 minutes
- Weight: 5.7 pounds
- Charging dock: Yes
The budget-friendly Tineco Pure One S11, often discounted below its $300 price, offers decent performance, especially for pet hair. It includes Tineco’s iLoop smart sensor but lacks a single-button start. Although it requires passing over some spots more than once, it comes with attachments for small spaces. Its 40-minute run time typically covers an entire house, though larger homes might necessitate recharging.
Dyson V15 Detect Submarine
Features:
- Suction power: 240AW
- Bin capacity: 0.2 gallon
- Battery life: 60 minutes
- Weight: 8.3 pounds
- Charging dock: Yes
The Dyson V15 Detect Submarine, priced at $950, combines powerful vacuuming with the ability to wash hard floors using its "submarine" wet cleaner head. It includes two water reservoirs for clean and dirty water and a brush bar. Effective for spills and deep cleans, it requires post-use maintenance like emptying reservoirs and cleaning the head. Despite its high cost, it provides comprehensive cleaning functionality.
Tineco Pure One Station FurFree
Features:
- Suction power: 230W
- Bin capacity: 0.8 gallon
- Battery life: 60 minutes
- Weight: 5.29 pounds
- Charging dock: Yes
The high-end Tineco Pure One Station FurFree, priced at $799, is noted for its convenience. Its self-emptying base cleans the vacuum’s brush, tube, and dustbin. The freestanding base, equipped with a smart app, simplifies monitoring. The vacuum itself offers strong suction and efficiency, ideal for pet owners. The base’s large dustbin needs emptying every few weeks, making maintenance straightforward.
Tineco Pure One S15
Features:
- Suction power: 500W
- Bin capacity: 0.12 gallon
- Battery life: 40 minutes
- Weight: 6.8 pounds
- Charging dock: Yes
Despite being replaced as the runner-up choice, the Tineco Pure One S15 ($500) remains a sturdy option. It efficiently handles a variety of messes, using an iLoop smart sensor to adjust suction power automatically. Its design is user-friendly, and it includes useful attachments. The device also has Wi-Fi and a companion app, providing additional functionality.
Factors to Consider Before Buying a Cordless Vacuum
Design and Bin Capacity
Cordless vacuums typically have stick designs, with a handle and debris bin connected to various attachments. Consider bin size relative to the vacuum’s weight; larger bins hold more debris but increase weight. Many models feature replaceable battery packs, allowing for easy replacement without professional help, albeit at a cost between $150-$200.
Suction and Power Modes
Suction power, measured in air wattage (AW) or motor wattage (W), tends to increase with a higher price. Vacuums usually feature multiple power modes, including normal, max, and eco modes. Some models auto-adjust power based on floor type or the amount of debris.
Floor Type
Select a vacuum that can handle various floor types. For predominantly carpeted homes, higher suction power is beneficial to ensure thorough cleaning.
Battery Life
Expect at least 40 minutes of battery life in standard mode. Cordless vacuums should cover multiple rooms on a single charge, though high-power modes will deplete battery life faster.
Base Style
Consider whether a wall mount or a freestanding base suits your space better. High-end models may include self-emptying bases, reducing the frequency of manual bin emptying.
“Smart” Features
Some models offer advanced features like particle sensors or smart apps for monitoring battery life and filter status. While convenient, these are not essential for effective cleaning.
Price
Cordless vacuums range from $150 to over $1,000. Most top models fall between $400 to $700, offering strong suction and reliable performance.
How We Test Cordless Vacuums
Engadget tested each vacuum over several weeks, using them across different floor types and various cleaning tasks. Each model’s performance, including how it handled larger debris, noise levels, and ease of use, was evaluated during extensive cleaning sessions.
Other Cordless Stick Vacuums Tested
- Dyson Gen 5 Detect: Offers a single-button start and superior suction but is more expensive at $950.
- Shark Detect Pro: At $450, includes a self-emptying base but lacks the same smooth operation and suction power as Tineco models.
Cordless Stick Vacuums FAQs
How long does the battery last on a cordless vacuum?
Typically, 30-40 minutes on standard mode, extending to 60-70 minutes on high-end models.
Can cordless vacuums be as powerful as corded ones?
While generally less powerful, high-end cordless models compensate with convenience, lighter weight, and sufficient suction for everyday messes.
Are cordless vacuums effective on pet hair?
Yes, particularly those with strong suction and larger bins to handle pet hair without frequent emptying.