Looking for a new vacuum to make cleaning your home faster and easier? Cordless stick vacuums are a great option! They provide lightweight, portable cleaning power without the hassle of cords.
In this article, I‘ll walk you through the key things to consider when shopping for the best cordless stick vacuum. I‘ve done the research and highlighted 5 top picks across different price points. Read on to find the perfect vacuum for your needs!
First, what exactly is a cordless stick vacuum? These vacuums are lightweight, bagless models that convert into handheld vacuums. They‘re powered by rechargeable batteries so you can easily move from room to room without cords getting in the way.
Cordless stick vacuums first emerged in the mid-2000s as an alternative to bulky upright vacuums. Brands like Dyson, Shark, and Hoover launched some of the earliest cordless models.
The technology has improved vastly since then. Today‘s cordless vacuums boast longer battery life, stronger suction power, and high-tech features like self-cleaning brushes. Global sales of cordless vacuums reached over $5 billion in 2022 and are projected to grow steadily in the coming years.
Now let‘s dive into the key factors to consider as you shop:
Battery Life
This is make-or-break for a cordless vacuum. Look for models with at least 40 minutes of runtime per charge so you can tackle multiple rooms without constantly recharging. The best-performing cordless vacuums today provide 60+ minutes of cleaning time.
Dyson‘s V15 Detect tops the bunch with a maximum of 120 minutes of fade-free power. Roborock‘s H7 falls on the higher end too with 90+ minutes of runtime. Check manufacturer specs to see real-world battery testing.
Suction Power
Suction power, measured in air watts (AW), determines how effectively your vacuum can pick up dirt, debris, pet hair and more. More power means faster, deeper cleaning across different surfaces.
Cordless vacuums range widely from as low as 20 AW on budget models to over 150 AW on high-end options. For deep cleaning performance, look for at least 100 AW of constant suction.
Miele‘s Triflex HX1 and Dyson‘s V15 Detect deliver 150 AW, while Roborock‘s H7 offers a powerful 160 AW.
Weight
One of the biggest perks of a stick vacuum is lightweight maneuverability. Look for models under 5 pounds so it‘s comfortable to carry and won‘t cause arm strain.
Roborock‘s H7 is one of the lightest options at just 3 pounds. Wyze‘s budget-friendly cordless vacuum also keeps it minimal at only 2.8 pounds.
Warranty
You‘ll want a solid warranty given the cost of high-end cordless vacuums. Look for at least 2 years of coverage for the vacuum and battery. Dyson offers a strong 5-year limited warranty across its cordless models.
Filtration
HEPA filtration is essential if you suffer from allergies or have pets. HEPA captures 99.97% of fine particles and allergens as small as 0.3 microns. This prevents dust and dander from escaping back into the air.
All of my top 5 picks include this crucial filtration system. Miele‘s Triflex HX1 takes it a step further with a lifetime HEPA filter you‘ll never need to replace.
Price
Cordless vacuum prices span from about $100 on the low end to upwards of $700 for premium models with all the bells and whistles. Consider how often you plan to use it and what features matter most.
I‘ve highlighted top options across low, mid, and high price points. The Wyze Cordless Vacuum provides tremendous value at just $177, while Dyson‘s V15 Detect delivers maximum power for $650.
Now let‘s dive into my picks for the 5 best cordless stick vacuums to match any budget and need!
1. Dyson V15 Detect – Best Overall
Price: $650
Battery: Up to 120 minutes of fade-free runtime
Suction Power: 150 AW
Weight: 6.8 pounds
Dyson dominates the cordless vacuum market, and their latest V15 Detect is the new gold standard. This intelligent vacuum automatically adapts suction and runtime based on floor type and dust load. It‘s engineered for deep carpet and hardwood cleaning.
The V15 uses a laser dust detection system to reveal microscopic particles and display them on an LCD screen. This lets you clearly see problem areas and ensure they get extra attention. I love how it takes the guesswork out of getting my floors truly clean.
Other standout features include whole-machine filtration, an anti-tangle motorized brush roll, and a hygienic one-click bin empty. At 120 minutes, it has the longest-lasting battery runtime of any cordless vacuum.
Reviewers praise its lightweight body, low-profile design, easy maneuverability and quiet operation. Consumers overwhelmingly rate this the best cordless vacuum available today. It‘s a worthwhile investment for years of effortless, spotless cleaning.
Pros
- Industry-leading suction power
- Intelligent floor and dust sensor technology
- Long 2+ hour runtime per charge
- Advanced filtration system
- 5-year limited warranty
Cons
- Very expensive
- Wall-mounted docking station sold separately
Best For
- Deep carpet and hard floor cleaning
- Large homes with lots of square footage
- Pet owners who need serious suction
Expert Review
"The Dyson V15 Detect is the cordless vacuum to beat…No other cordless vacuum provides this level of deep cleaning performance across carpets, hard floors, pet hair and more." – CNET
2. Wyze Cordless Vacuum – Best Budget
Price: $177
Battery: Up to 100 minutes with extra battery
Suction Power: 24,000 Pa max
Weight: 2.8 pounds
For powerful performance on a budget, Wyze‘s new cordless vacuum is a game-changer. It costs hundreds less than premium models but still packs robust suction power. The lightweight body and swappable batteries make cleaning a breeze.
This vacuum stands out with user-friendly features like a handy convertible charging stand, Intelligent Control Display, and digital power readout. There are 3 suction modes to conserve battery on lighter jobs or maximize pickup on carpets.
Reviewers say it picks up pet hair and fine debris as well as or better than pricier options. The soft roller head is great for hard floors, while the direct drive cleaner tackles carpets. At just $177, this is my top budget recommendation.
Pros
- Impressive suction for the price
- Super lightweight at 2.8 pounds
- Swappable batteries enable 100 min runtime
- Advanced display panel
- HEPA filtration
Cons
- Lacks some premium features
- Small dust bin
Best For
- Budget-conscious shoppers
- Smaller homes and light cleaning needs
- Hard floor cleaning
Expert Review
"It offers tremendous value for the price. Its lightweight body and long runtime make quick cleaning a breeze." – Good Housekeeping
3. Miele Triflex HX1 – Best Mid-Range
Price: $600
Battery: 60 minute runtime
Suction Power: 150 AW
Weight: 5.5 pounds
Miele makes some of the best premium vacuums, and their lightweight Triflex HX1 gives you pro-grade performance without the ultra-high price tag. It converts between an upright stick and handheld vacuum.
The 60-minute battery enables cleaning large homes in one session. You can also buy an extra battery to double the runtime. Miele‘s Vortex Motor provides constant max suction across all floors.
This model stands out with a soft roller head ideal for hard floors and large area rugs. The articulating head makes swiveling under furniture a breeze. I appreciate that it automatically shuts off the motorized brush on carpets when needed.
If you want commercial-grade cleaning without paying top dollar, the Triflex HX1 is a great mid-range investment. Miele quality comes at a more affordable price point.
Pros
- Powerful constant suction
- High-end performance for less
- Articulating swivel head
- Automatic shut-off brush roller
- HEPA lifetime filter
Cons
- Shorter battery life than premium brands
- Small dust bin
Best For
- Mid-range budgets
- Hard floor cleaning
- Quick cleaning of carpets
Expert Review
"This is one of the best mid-price cordless vacuums available. Its lightweight versatility makes quick cleanups a cinch." – CNET
4. Dyson Omni-Glide – Best Lightweight
Price: $350
Battery: 20 minutes quick mode, 10 minutes max mode
Suction Power: 20 AW quick mode, 65 AW max
Weight: 3.2 pounds
Dyson‘s Omni-Glide is designed for fast touch-ups and small messes. At just 3.2 pounds, it‘s one of the most lightweight cordless vacuums available. The slim, low-profile head glides easily under furniture without needing to move it.
While battery life is lower than other Dyson models, the quick charge time of 1.5 hours makes up for it. The Omni-Glide is ideal for hard floors, efficiently collecting fine debris and dirt into its hygienic bin.
Fluffy is the perfect word to describe this vacuum. The soft fabric brush roll prevents scratches on delicate floors. Maneuvering tight corners and congested spaces is effortless. It‘s the ultimate portable vacuum for quick cleanups.
Pros
- Extremely lightweight at 3.2 pounds
- Low-profile cleaning head
- Soft brush is safe for hard floors
- Hygienic one-click emptying
- 1.5 hour quick charge time
Cons
- Short battery life
- Not designed for carpets
- Lower suction than premium Dysons
Best For
- Hardwood, tiles, laminate
- Quick cleanups and small messes
- Congested spaces and under furniture
Expert Review
"The Omni-Glide makes swift work of hard floor messes. Its swivel head reaches where other vacuums can‘t." – Good Housekeeping
5. Roborock H7 – Best For Allergies
Price: $360
Battery: 90+ minutes eco mode
Suction Power: 160 AW max mode
Weight: 3 pounds
Roborock built the H7 specifically for homeowners with allergies and pets. Its 5-stage HEPA filtration captures 99.99% of allergens as small as 0.3 microns. This prevents dander and dust from escaping back into your home.
With 160 AW of max suction power, this lightweight vacuum tackles embedded dirt in carpets. An optional magnetic dirt bag allows mess-free disposal for allergy sufferers. The removable battery delivers 90+ minutes of fade-free cleaning.
If you need serious suction and filtration, Roborock designed the H7 to outperform in these areas. Reviewers with allergies and pets say it makes a tremendous difference in air quality and cleanliness.
Pros
- Advanced HEPA filtration system
- Powerful max suction at 160 AW
- Optional magnetic dust bag
- 90+ minute battery in eco mode
- Removes 99.99% of allergens
Cons
- Louder than premium models
- Lower ratings for carpet cleaning
Best For
- Allergy sufferers
- Pet owners
- Whole home deep cleaning
Expert Review
"Roborock built this vacuum specifically to combat allergens. It delivers phenomenal filtration you can really notice." – CNET
Roborock H7 is currently unavailable on Amazon as of July 2023. Check back soon!
Key Takeaways on Finding the Best Cordless Stick Vacuum
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Prioritize battery life and suction power above all. Look for at least 40-60 minutes of runtime and 100+ AW for the best cleaning performance.
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Consider your mix of carpets and hard floors. Look for specialized heads, automatic floor adjustment, and brush roll shutoff.
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HEPA filtration is ideal for allergy sufferers and pet owners to capture fine particles.
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Stick to reputable brands like Dyson, Miele, Roborock for proven quality and features.
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Look for at least a 2-year warranty for peace of mind with your investment.
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Decide whether maximum power or affordability matters most to narrow down your options.
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Lightweight maneuverability under 5 pounds makes cleaning effortless.
I hope this overview gives you a helpful starting point for finding the perfect cordless stick vacuum! Let me know if you have any other questions. I‘m happy to provide more recommendations tailored to your home and cleaning needs.
