AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
If you’re looking for a tool to clean your home, it’s hard to go wrong with a cordless stick vacuum. “When shopping for vacuum cleaners, cordless stick vacuums are becoming a popular choice,” says Toby Schulz, CEO and co-founder of Maid2Match, a professional cleaning service company. “They’re lightweight and easy to carry around since there’s no cord or heavy canister. That gives you a bigger range of motion and, with the many attachments, the ability to vacuum curtains, walls, window sills and more.”
To find the best cordless stick vacuums, I consulted with Schulz and other cleaning experts to get their professional advice.
What to consider when buying the best cordless stick vacuums
Battery life
Most cordless stick vacuums rely on rechargeable batteries as their power source. Knowing the battery life (and recharge time) of the cordless stick vacuums you’re interested in is important to ensure you choose the one that can meet your cleaning needs and schedule requirements. Look for a cordless stick vacuum that offers at least 30 minutes of battery life for continuous vacuuming, suggests Delah Gomasi, CEO of MaidForYou.
Schulz adds that knowing the battery life will give you a clearer picture of how much vacuuming you can accomplish before your battery dies. However, some features drain more of a battery, including a stronger suction. “Look for stick vacuums with removable batteries so you can swap a fully-charged battery in after the first one drains,” advises Schulz.
Attachments
Many vacuums come with attachments to help users clean more efficiently without (in some cases) having to purchase additional cleaning gadgets. Think of attachments as pieces that help to make your new vacuum as close to an all-in-one tool as possible. “Many cordless stick models will have attachments for upholstery, dusting brushes, crevice tools, or even mattress cleaners,” says Schulz.
Suction power
When it comes to the suction power of a cordless stick vacuum, you should aim for a suction power of above 100 Air Watts (AW), according to Gomasi. Information regarding a cordless stick vacuum’s suction power can usually be found in the product information section on a retailer’s or product’s webpage.
Features
There are many features to look for when shopping for cordless stick vacuums, including HEPA filtration, LED lights and crevice tools. Choosing which features are worth it for you will depend on your specific cleaning habits and needs.
Our top picks for the best cordless stick vacuums
Best premium cordless stick vacuum: Dyson v12 Detect Slim
Best premium
Dyson V12 Detect Slim
For a premium cordless stick vacuum, consider the Dyson v12 Detect Slim, which combines high-tech features with power to separate it from its competitors. In addition to its many tools (listed below) this vacuum contains a light that illuminates dust that you likely wouldn’t see otherwise to help you clean thoroughly. This vacuum is expensive, but contains many technological features, like an LCD screen, that makes it worth its higher price.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: 3 liters.
- Tools: Hair screw tool, crevice tool, Motorbar cleaner head, Fluffy Optic cleaner head, crevice tool, combination tool and wand clip.
- Run time: Up to 60 minutes.
- Weight: 5.22 pounds.
- Price on publish: $499.99.
What we like:
- 60-minute run time.
- LCD screen.
- Lightweight.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Although this cordless stick vacuum is normally priced at over $600, it comes with many tools and technological features that make cleaning easier.
Get it here: Dyson v12 Detect Slim
Best cordless stick vacuum for pet hair: Tineco Pure ONE Station Furfree Cordless Stick Vacuum
Best for pet hair
Tineco Pure ONE Station Furfree Cordless Stick Vacuum
The Tineco Pure ONE Station Furfree Cordless Stick Vacuum is a solid option if you’re shopping for a vacuum to clean up pet hair. Since it’s equipped with a four-stage HEPA filtration system and a three liter bin, this vacuum can collect particles between three and five millimeters while keeping the air around you clean. This vacuum also adjusts its suction power automatically when needed and comes with a FurFree Kit that allows you to groom your pets without harm or mess.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: 3 liters.
- Tools: Clean station, extension hose, mini power brush, two-in-one crevice dusting brush and tube.
- Run time: Up to 40 minutes.
- Weight: 5.3 pounds.
- Price on publish: $699.99.
What we like:
- FurFree Kit.
- HEPA filter.
- Can clean larger particles.
- Adjusts suction power by itself.
What we don’t like:
- It’s loud.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Pet owners will appreciate this cordless stick vacuum as it can handle suctioning larger particles and comes with a pet kit.
Get it here: Tineco Pure ONE Station Furfree Cordless Stick Vacuum
Best value cordless stick vacuum: Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Best value
Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
If you’re searching for a cordless stick vacuum that delivers on its value, Jennifer Rodriguez, chief hygiene officer for Pro Housekeepers, recommends Levoit’s LVAC-200. With up to 50 minutes of run time, this vacuum is suitable for cleaning on both hard floors and rugs. Although it does take between four and five hours to charge, its cleaning capabilities are worth the wait. If you want to conserve energy, this vacuum offers an Eco Mode (with up to 30 minutes of run time) and a Turbo Mode (offering 14 minutes of run time). Its filters can also be washed and reused again so you don’t have to keep buying new ones.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: 0.75 liters.
- Tools: Long stick, short stick, crevice tool and pet tool.
- Run time: Up to 50 minutes.
- Weight: 6.17 pounds.
- Price on publish: $186.89.
What we like:
- Its roller is tangle resistant.
- Sits at 180 degrees.
- Can be used on hard floors and rugs.
What we don’t like:
- No HEPA filter.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This cordless stick vacuum is perfect for cleaners looking for a tool they can use for various modes and different floor types.
Get it here: Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Best budget cordless stick vacuum: BLACK+DECKER Powerseries+ 20V Max Cordless Vacuum
Best budget
BLACK+DECKER Powerseries+ 20V Max Cordless Vacuum
For a cordless stick vacuum that won’t break the bank, Gomasi recommends the Black+Decker Powerseries+ 20V Max Cordless Vacuum. For just under $130, this vacuum can wipe away particles for up to 44 minutes. If you make a mess at night or in a dark room, not to worry — this vacuum has LED floorhead lights. Note that this vacuum is a bit heavier than some of our other picks, at 8.2 pounds. That said, it can easily be turned into a handheld vacuum.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: Not listed.
- Tools: Crevice tool and wall mount.
- Run time: Up to 44 minutes.
- Weight: 8.2 pounds.
- Price on publish: $129.99.
What we like:
- Can turn into a handheld vacuum.
- Affordable.
- Lights.
What we don’t like:
- It doesn’t include as many tools.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
For under $130, this cordless stick vacuum is a great choice for those seeking an affordable cleaning tool.
Get it here: BLACK+DECKER Powerseries+ 20V Max Cordless Vacuum
Best cordless stick vacuum for carpet: Samsung Bespoke Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Best for carpet
Samsung Bespoke Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
When it comes to the best cordless stick vacuum for carpets, Schulz recommends the Samsung Bespoke Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner. “Samsung brings the best of its technology to the Bespoke Jet vacuum cleaner as it provides up to 210 AW of suction power and up to 60 minutes of runtime,” says Schulz. When it’s time to clean the dustbin, it’s easy to do so with the press of a button. Although this vacuum is bulky, it has a chic finish that will elevate the aesthetic of whichever room you decide to store it in.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagged.
- Bin size: 0.5 liters.
- Tools: Jet dual brush, telescopic pipe, crevice tool and combination tool.
- Run time: Up to 60 minutes.
- Weight: Six pounds.
- Price on publish: $329.99.
What we like:
- 210 AW of suction power.
- Chic design.
- Digital display.
What we don’t like:
- Bulky charging station.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Offering 210 AW of suction power, this cordless stick vacuum is a suitable tool for those looking to clean different kinds of floors, but most especially carpets.
Get it here: Samsung Bespoke Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner
Best lightweight cordless stick vacuum: Kenmore DS4095 Brushless Cordless Stick Vacuum
Best lightweight
Kenmore DS4095 Brushless Cordless Stick Vacuum
Weighing less than six pounds, the Kenmore DS4095 Brushless Cordless Stick Vacuum is suitable for cleaning floors, walls and ceilings. Since its wand flexes, it makes cleaning those harder-to-reach areas and corners easier. If you prefer a hand vacuum, you can convert this gadget into that, too. When you’re done using it, it can be placed on its wall mount for safekeeping. Considering it costs just under $150, this cleaning appliance is versatile and comes with a two-in-one combination tool.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: Not listed.
- Tools: Two-in-one combination tool (crevice and dusting brush).
- Run time: 40 minutes.
- Weight: Less than six pounds.
- Price on publish: $149.99.
What we like:
- Weighs less than six pounds.
- Wand flexes.
- Detachable hand vacuum.
What we don’t like:
- Only two speeds are available.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This vacuum is easy to maneuver due to its lightweight nature and can be converted to a hand vacuum when needed.
Get it here: Kenmore DS4095 Brushless Cordless Stick Vacuum
Best cordless stick vacuum for big homes: Shark IX141 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum
Best for big homes
Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal | IX141H | Lavender
The Shark IX411 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum (which comes recommended by Rodriguez) can help you clean a big home. Since it has a wide cleaning path of nearly 11 inches and a 0.83 quart dust bin, you won’t have to take as many passes to clean up an area. You’ll likely be able to make your way through a large portion of your home (if not all) within its 40-minute maximum run time.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Not listed.
- Bin size: 0.83 quarts.
- Tools: Crevice tool and pet-multi tool.
- Run time: Up to 40 minutes.
- Weight: 7.63 pounds.
- Price on publish: $259.99.
What we like:
- Wide cleaning path.
- Dirt ejector.
- Available in vivid colors.
What we don’t like:
- Doesn’t come with many attachments.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
If you’re shopping specifically for a cordless stick vacuum to clean a large home, this one from Shark is a great option, as it has a wide cleaning path and a large dust bin.
Get it here: Shark IX141 Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum (Buy on Walmart)
Best suction power cordless stick vacuum: Dyson V15 Detect
Best suction power
Dyson V15 Detect
As Schulz points out, the Dyson V15 Detect takes the lead when it comes to suction power, offering an impressive three cleaning modes and 230 AWs. Its suction also adjusts itself based on the type of mess and floor being cleaned. Furthermore, this vacuum is equipped with an LCD screen, where you can visually see the particles being picked up.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: 0.2 gallons.
- Tools: Anti-tangle hair screw tool, de-tangling digital Motorbar, combination tool, stubborn dirt brush, mini soft dusting brush, wand clip, Laser Slim Fluffy cleaner head and crevice tool.
- Run time: Up to 60 minutes.
- Weight: 6.8 pounds.
- Price on publish: $749.99.
What we like:
- 230 AW suction power.
- Large bin.
- Several brushes are included.
What we don’t like:
- Three hour charge time.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Although this vacuum cleaner is an investment, its suction power is stronger than many other similar vacuums on the market.
Get it here: Dyson V15 Detect
Best cordless stick vacuum for wet-dry: Shark VM252 VACMOP Pro Cordless Hard Floor Vacuum Mop
Best for wet-dry
Shark VACMOP | Cordless Vac Mop for Hard Floor | VM251
Looking for a wet-dry cordless stick vacuum? Don’t rule out this Vacmop from Shark, which does twice the work so you don’t have to. You also don’t need to worry if you don’t have any cleaning solution readily accessible, as it’s included with the vacuum. When it’s time to replace the pad, it can be disposed of with one click. It is important to note that its run time is very short, though, at 12 minutes.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: 0.1 quarts.
- Tools: Disposable pads and cleaning solution.
- Run time: 12 minutes.
- Weight: 3.34 pounds.
- Price on publish: $99.99.
What we like:
- Comes with cleaning solution.
- Has a pad.
- Affordable.
What we don’t like:
- 12-minute run time.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This wet-dry mop is easy to use and comes with pads and cleaning solution so you can have a seamless cleaning experience.
Get it here: Shark VM252 VACMOP Pro Cordless Hard Floor Vacuum Mop
Best cordless stick vacuum for small spaces: Bissell Cleanview XR 200W Stick Vacuum
Best for small spaces
Cleanview XR 200W Stick Bagless Vacuum | Black/Silver Accents | 3789U
People looking to clean small spaces and stairs will benefit from the Bissell Cleanview XR 200W Stick Vacuum. With a dusting brush, crevice tool and upholstery tool, you can easily access those often hard-to-reach areas for up to 35 minutes per charge of its lithium-ion battery. Additionally, its head swivels so there’s no need to manually move the head yourself. If you want to clean areas above your head, its wand can be easily removed. Regardless of the small spaces you want to clean, this cordless stick vacuum can help.
Specifications:
- Bagged or bagless: Bagless.
- Bin size: 0.3 liters.
- Tools: Dusting brush, crevice tool and upholstery tool.
- Run time: Up to 35 minutes.
- Weight: Eight pounds.
- Price on publish: $139.
What we like:
- Can be used on stairs.
- Bagless.
- Multi-level filtration.
What we don’t like:
- 4.5-hour charge time.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This cordless stick vacuum has a swivel head, a detachable wand and a crevice tool, and is suitable for those seeking to clean small spaces.
Get it here: Bissell Cleanview XR 200W Stick Vacuum
How we selected the best cordless stick vacuums
Expert advice and online research
To create my list of the best cordless stick vacuums, I spoke with cleaning experts about their cordless stick vacuum recommendations, taking into account battery life, features, suction power and attachments. I also conducted online research, keeping their expert insights in mind when reviewing product information and reviews from real customers.
Run time
Per Gomasi’s recommendation, all except for one of the cordless stick vacuums on this list offer a battery life/run time of 30 minutes or longer. When you purchase a cordless stick vacuum, you want to feel as though you will be able to use it effectively during each cleaning session and a longer run time provides users with the opportunity to do that.
Tools
All of the picks on this list come with at least one tool or attachment. Tools and attachments help perform different functions so not as many gadgets are needed to tackle cleaning tasks.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Are stick vacuums worth it?
Whether or not stick vacuums are worth it will depend on how you intend to use them to suit your household needs. Gomasi opines that if you plan to use a cordless stick vacuum to clean up the kitchen after mealtime, or in a similar light-mess circ*mstance, then they’re worth it. However, if you’re looking for a cleaning tool to help you with those heavy-duty messes, he recommends using backpack vacuums that run on electric power.
What is the difference between an upright vacuum and a cordless stick vacuum?
Most upright vacuums are corded and need to be plugged into an electrical source, while most cordless stick vacuums have rechargeable batteries. Cordless stick vacuums tend to be lighter and easier to maneuver from one location to the next, whereas upright vacuums can typically clean with more efficiency as they tend to be bigger and have wider cleaning paths. Schulz suggests thinking of stick vacuums as the lighter, more portable version of the upright vacuum cleaner.
Which cordless vacuum has the most powerful suction?
Of the best vacuum cleaners we mention above, the Dyson V15 Detect has the most powerful suction at 230 AW.
Related article:
- How often should you vacuum? Here’s what the experts say
- Best vacuum cleaners: Our expert housekeeper weighs your options
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
