12 best cordless vacuums we tested on dirt, dust and pet hair

If cleanliness is non-negotiable (and for me, it is), I’ve discovered that utilizing one of the best cordless vacuums is the optimal approach to evade frustration with a lack of outlets. It gives you a wide range without getting tangled up in cords.

When my husband and I invested in our cordless stick vacuum, it seriously reduced the number of fights we had. So, if you’re avoiding divorce, add this to your long list of reasons to buy one ASAP. Few things frustrate me more than a pair of muddy shoes and long cords.

Our team has tested the very best cordless vacuum reviews from top-of-the-line brands like Dyson and Miele to Bissell and Shark. We’ve identified the best budget buys for the best value.

“Manufacturers offer different features, and when selecting a vacuum, it is important to consider the types of cleaning jobs you do around your home and the types of surfaces you will be cleaning,” said expert Chris Doscher from the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.

When seeking the best vacuum cleaners, we took Doscher’s advice into account, evaluating various models and numerous factors, including charge time, battery life, suction power, and dustbin capacity, because dumping dirt can be a hassle, not to mention disgusting.

Skip to the end to check out our in-depth FAQ list for expert-backed tips and tricks on finding the best cordless vacuum.

Revolutionize your cleaning routine with the Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty System. This intelligent vacuum adapts to your floors, automatically adjusting suction power for optimal performance.

“I unleashed it on a gauntlet of household horrors: dog hair tumbleweeds, a Cheerio catastrophe, and the aftermath of a coffee ground disaster that would make a 6 p.m. Starbucks look as sterile as a surgeon’s table,” raved Commerce Editorial Director of The Post Barret Wertz. With up to 70 minutes of runtime and an auto-empty dock, this vacuum takes the hassle out of keeping your home spotless.

Read about our other top vacuum picks from Shark that we reviewed.

Product details: What’s in the box: 8-inch Duster Crevice Tool, Odor Neutralizer Puck, Pet Multi-Tool, Single Accessory Dock, and Battery & Charging Dock| Dimensions: 10.24 in L x 18.6 in W x 46.34 in H | Weight: Stick: 7.96lbs/Auto-Empty Dock: 10.52lbs | Charge time: N/A | Run time: Up to 70 minutes

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I don’t love cleaning, so I like a vacuum that makes things as easy as possible. Since I live in an apartment, I’ve generally owned cheap, lightweight stick vacs that can easily fit in a corner. The problem with these types of machines is that they’re not great at grabbing the dirt you can’t see.

All I have to do is look at the bottom of my white socks to know how dirty my floors are… embarrassing and gross! What attracted me to testing the Shark Detect Pro is that one) I know the brand is trusted for stellar vacuums and two) this model is slim enough to be tucked in a NYC closet or the corner of my kitchen without looking unsightly.

The directions it comes with are straightforward, and a nozzle tool and brush tool are also included. The handle converts into a handheld vacuum (good for sofas), and the nozzle is my go-to for corners because I’m not the get-on-my-hands-and-knees-to-scrub type of gal.

The vacuum is lightweight, which is nice if your home has stairs. It also automatically detects dirt levels and adjusts its suction based on what’s around. I don’t have to do multiple passes with the machine to make sure an area is spotless, and the head swivels for easy turns around corners. It’s good on floors (all types) and decent on low-pile carpets, but if yours are visibly dirty, you’re probably better off with a proper carpet cleaner.

Oddly, the thing I like best is its charging base. It’s very futuristic-looking and compact, fitting nicely against the wall. If I could make any improvements to the overall design, I’d make it so the head had enough suction power to get the crevices by the wall. Switching tools out can be annoying. However, it still works well at getting a dirty job done fast, and I’m happy to have it.

This part of the review was tested by Holly J Coley, commerce editor at The Post.

Product details: What’s in the box: Vacuum, Charging base, 8-inch Crevice tool, Removable battery, Storage clip | Dimensions| 13.9 inches (length)  x 10.4 inches (width)  x 43 inches (height) | Weight: 6 pounds

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The Shark Wandvac Self-Empty System is the brand’s first cordless stick vac with self-empty technology. It’s ideal for small spaces like mine (such as apartments, bathrooms, or dorms) but is powerful enough to tackle messes that pop up throughout the day anywhere in your home.

Not only is it designed to clean your entire home, but it’s also sleek enough to leave it where it will be most convenient to grab when you need it. We’d go as far as to say that with its stylish color, design, and small footprint, you might even want to show it off.

The Shark Wandvac Self-Empty System really is as great as it seems. It’s lightweight and powerful, easily moveable, features a self-cleaning brush roll, and reduces emptying dust exposure by up to 100x compared to traditional vacuums.

Read our full Shark Wandvac Cordless Self-Empty System Vacuum review here.

This part of the review was written by Victoria Giardina, commerce journalist and content strategist.

Product details: What’s in the box: Duster Crevice Tool, Pet Multi-Tool, Self-Empty Charging Base| Dimensions: 11 inches (width) 8.75 inches (length) 43.5 inches (height) | Weight: 5.6 pounds

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If you’re looking for a newer model with incredible suction and smartness (thanks to its slim-detect LED screen), the Dyson V12 is hard to beat. Not only is it the best modern vacuum, but it runs for a full hour of deep cleaning without needing a charge and turns into a handheld for cushions and corners.

What’s more, it’s Dyson’s “most compact intelligent cordless vacuum,” boasting laser technology that shows you exactly what it’s cleaning and how it’s cleaning it. This model is pretty spectacular and super easy to maneuver (it doesn’t even feel like cleaning after all).

For pet owners, the head has a detangling brush, which means you don’t have to pull your pet’s hair from the device once you’re through using it. Instead, it all gets sucked up into the canister, which can be emptied.

This part of the review was written by Victoria Giardina, commerce journalist and content strategist.

Product details: What’s in the box: Laser Slim Fluffy Cleaner Head, Hair Screw Tool, Combination Tool, Docking Station, Motorbar Cleaner Head, Crevice Tool, Wand Clip, Charger | Dimensions: 49.1 inches (height) x 9.9 inches (length) x 9.8 in (width) | Weight: 5.2 pounds | Charge time: 4 hours | Run time: Up to 60 minutes

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Victoria Giardina, a commerce journalist and content strategist for the New York Post, tested the Dyson V8 Animal Cordless Stick Vacuum.

“It’s the best cordless vacuum we tested from Dyson and is a practical, relatively affordable investment that’ll leave your house spotless. With the V8 Animal, you’re getting optimal suction and hassle-free maneuvering,” Giardina said. “Though I don’t have a furry pet, this vacuum impressively worked well in picking up finer dust and hairs from carpeting.”

I also tested and bought this vacuum for myself due to its smooth operation and maneuverability around furniture. It effectively cleans up all the dirt my family spills throughout the apartment (which seems like every five seconds), and this Dyson helps maintain our marital harmony because I prefer a spotless home, a task that used to be solely mine until now.

If you also love to keep your car clean, Giardina noted, “With the V8 Animal, you’ll never need a car vacuum or a spot cleaner again. Conveniently, this model is clad with a combination tool that works well on finer textures — like carpeting on stairs — a crevice tool for hard-to-reach places, and even a motorized brush bar to tackle dirt and dust on anything from car seats to couches.” She also loved the two power modes enjoyed its MAX mode — which provides up to seven minutes of intense power — on her thicker shag carpet and its Powerful mode for regular Sunday deep cleans.

This part of the review was written by Victoria Giardina, commerce journalist and content strategist and Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce journalist.

Product details: What’s in the box: Dyson V8 Animal, Direct Drive Cleaner Head, Mini Motorized Tool, Mini Soft Dusting Brush, Crevice Tool, Combination Tool, Charger, Docking Station | Dimensions: 9.8 inches (height) x 49 inches (length) x 8.8 inches (width)| Weight: 5.63 pounds | Charge time: 5 hours | Run time: Up to 40 minutes

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First off, I’m not sure I’ve ever loved vacuuming so much in my entire life. Miele boasts consistent strong suction power on this Triflex HX2, and it did not disappoint. The easy-to-open canister attached to the vacuum filled up with dirt in places I didn’t even know had any, which was exhilarating and terrifying at the same time.

It caters to all your cleaning needs by offering three settings — minimum, economy, and maximum. I found the minimum or economy settings ideal for vacuuming low or high-pile carpets with the stick attachment. In contrast, the maximum setting excelled in cleaning hard surfaces, particularly around my fireplace.

Remarkably, it’s able to uncover dirt particles that even my beloved Dyson V8 Animal previously missed (apologies, Dyson!). Plus, with Miele’s intelligent extra-wide Electrobrush, it can detect the type of flooring, automatically increasing power when vacuuming carpet to meet your cleaning needs.

The stick features a surprisingly flexible handle that easily reaches to the left and right. However, compared to my Dyson cordless vacuum comparison, which has a ball joint, the Dyson moved more seamlessly. I would say that the Miele feels a bit stiffer in comparison, but it still manages to tackle tough angles effectively.

It also comes with four different heads that can be placed directly onto the PowerUnit and turn into a cordless handheld vacuum. This allows you to vacuum at every angle, dust, reach small crevices, and, probably my favorite, clean furniture. It worked like a charm on my oversized velvet chair and left it looking new.

Removing the dirt tank was a breeze, and it held a lot before needing to be emptied. The unit includes a HEPA lifetime filter that effectively eliminates microscopic particles and dust from the air. This feature ensures that individuals with allergies and other sensitive respiratory issues can breathe easily and comfortably.

The removable battery is incredibly convenient, particularly for those of us living in small spaces who don’t want the vacuum sitting out while charging. One notable advantage is the option to purchase an additional battery. With one battery charging while the other is in use, there’s no waiting time, unlike other vacuums where the battery is built-in and cannot be removed.

This feature significantly speeds up last-minute cleaning sessions before guests arrive, which is especially beneficial for those of us who aren’t the most organized planners (cough, me).

I loved it so much, I bought this vacuum and wrote an entire review about it.

Product details: What’s in the box: Crevice Nozzle, Dusting Brush with Synthetic Bristles, Upholstery Nozzle XXL SPD 20, Electric Brush Multi Floor XXL SEB 430, Wall Mount, Power Supply Unit | Weight: 8 pounds | Charge time: 4 hours | Run time: Up to 60 minutes

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I have been thoroughly impressed with the advanced vacuum cleaner’s performance. Its standout features include intense suction power, an easy mopping feature, and a self-emptying docking station. 

Its 5-step filtration system effectively traps dust, ensuring cleaner air for a healthier environment. The filters are removable and washable by hand, allowing for easy maintenance and prolonging the lifespan of the device.

With the new Dual Floor Max Nozzle, I found it effortlessly removed hair and grime from hardwood and carpet surfaces. Its combination of a carpet agitator and soft roller ensures thorough cleaning without any hitches, seamlessly navigating over various terrains. 

The front LED lights illuminate hidden dirt, revealing a level of cleanliness I hadn’t achieved before. Plus, its telescopic handle with an adjustable length and interchangeable nozzles make reaching tricky spots, like under our fridge or over the curtains, a breeze.

Really, it’s the only vacuum you need for every cleaning task in the house (and out) because it serves as a cordless vacuum or a handheld. Plus, with built-in wifi technology, you can connect it to the LG ThinQ app to see when it was last used, run diagnostics, and more. 

If you’re not already impressed, change the head attachment to a new Power Mop Pro to scrub out stains using detergent.

Docking it onto the tower ensures automatic and hygienic debris disposal, though the bags need frequent replacement. The convenience of the tower charging two reusable batteries simultaneously means I’ve never had to worry about running out of power mid-clean. The batteries click securely into place. 

Overall, this vacuum cleaner has revolutionized my cleaning routine, making it a reliable and efficient tool for maintaining sparkling floors. 

This part of the review was tested by P.J. McCormick, deals reporter at The Post.

Product details: What’s in the box: CordZero All in One Cordless Stick Vacuum, Power Mop Pro Head, 2 Quick Release Batteries, and Charging/Emptying Stand | Dimensions: 10.4 inches (width) x 44.1 inches (height) x 11.7 inches (depth) | Weight: 7.05 pounds | Charge time: 4.5 hours | Run time: Up to 200 minutes with 2 batteries.

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Living in a small-ish NYC apartment may mean that I don’t have a lot of space to clean, but I also don’t have a lot of storage space for my cleaning supplies. On the hunt for the perfect cordless vacuum for my needs, Bissell answered the call. 

This vacuum has not only met but exceeded my needs. Its compact design makes it easy to store, its 35-minute run-time is more than enough to clean my whole apartment (or just a quick mess), and the other attachments make cleanup that much easier, reaching high places. Plus, it can easily be converted to a handheld.

It moves so smoothly — and not to mention lighter and quieter than most others I’ve tried — with a guiding light to ensure you’ve done the job and a swivel head to reach every corner and under every item of furniture. 

With multi-level filtration and multiple power options, I’m confident in Bissell’s ability to deep-clean. In addition to the special attachments, this vacuum also comes with a replacement filter, making it an even better value. 

Additionally, it comes with everything you need (plus instructions) to mount the vacuum and charger to a wall if you so choose. Last but not least, one of my favorite features has to be the tangle-free brush roll — when you’re a long-haired lady like me, you know it can’t be beaten.

This part of the review was tested by Meaghan Roche, Senior Manager of Commerce SEO at The Post.

Product details: What’s in the box: Cleanview XR 200W Stick Vacuum, Crevice Tool, Combination Dusting Brush, Upholstery Tool | Weight: 5.9 pounds | Charge time: 4.5 hours | Run time: Up to 35 minutes

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From the moment it first powered on, the BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum impressed me. It’s the ideal size for a handheld vacuum (though larger than most) but it has essentially the same power and efficiency as my cordless vacuums that cost upwards of $800. I know, total shock factor.

This model is also fairly priced at less than $100 and ideal for any user — whether you’re in college, live in a studio apartment, or own a five-bedroom home and want some convenience. This model boasts nearly 32,000 applauding reviews on Amazon alone and helps remove extra dirt and debris. The reason? It’s a pet vacuum, first and foremost, so its ability to pick up pet hair crosses over to the usual bathroom hair and under-bed dust.

I don’t have a pet at home, and the fact that this handheld vacuum has ranked above the pack is telling. Upon purchase, you’ll also receive a motorized brush tool and — one of the best parts — a large, easy-to-empty dirt tank.

Quite literally, I showed everyone in my household this nifty tool and they were impressed. It’s easy to use, easy to clean, and does the job greatly. What more can one ask for?

This part of the review was written by Victoria Giardina, commerce journalist and content strategist.

Product details: What’s in the box: Cordless Hand Vacuum, Motorized Brush Tool, Upholstery Tool Crevice Tool, Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery | Dimensions: 5 inches (height) x 16 inches (width) x 4.5 inches (depth) | Weight: 3 pounds | Run time: Up to 17 minutes

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As made viral on Amazon, the Tineco iFloor 3 Breeze Complete Wet-Dry Vacuum is a versatile and innovative cleaning tool designed to make both wet and dry cleaning more efficient and convenient. it combines the functions of a vacuum and a mop into one device and is equipped to clean hard floors like tile, wood and laminate with ease.

I love how its powerful suction picks up dirt, debris and liquid spills simultaneously, making it perfect for just about anyone looking to clean up a mess. Its built-in smart sensors automatically adjust the suction power and water flow based on the floor type, ensuring optimal performance across different surfaces, preserving energy and water usage. It always leaves my hardwood floors spic and span, and it’s a breeze to maneuver.

This part of the review was written by Victoria Giardina, commerce journalist and content strategist

Product details: What’s in the box: Tineco iFLOOR 3 Breeze Complete Wet Dry Vacuum, Bush rollers x 2; Cleaning solution x 2; Adapter; Storage tray | Dimensions: 11.26-inches Length x 10.87-inches Width x 43.31-inches Height | Weight: 9.3 pounds | Run time: Up to 30 minutes

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This small design and powerful suction make it a highly useful tool for light-duty tasks both indoors and outdoors. However, if you need longer runtime or quieter operation, you might want to explore other options, as some reviews note it can be a bit loud. It’s particularly handy for quick cleanups, including small basement flooding or spills.

Product details: Milwaukee 0880-20 18V Cordless Lithium-Ion 2 Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum (Bare Tool), HEPA Filter, Portable, Washable Filter, Wet/Dry, Onboard Storage, Blower Port | What’s in the box: Milwaukee 0880-20 Bare Tool, Stackable Canister with Hose Storage, HEPA Filter (pre-installed) | Dimensions: 13.5-inches Length x 12-inches Width x 14-inches Height | Weight: 10.1 pounds | Run time: Up to 23 minutes with 5.0 Ah M18 battery (battery sold separately) | Special features: Cordless convenience, Wet/Dry capability, HEPA washable filter, Blower port, Compatible with all M18 batteries

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This vacuum provides a powerful suction that handles fine dust and large debris without going over it several times. It has an anti-tangle brushroll, making it ideal for those with pets or long hair, and ensuring hassle-free cleaning on all floor types. With a long-lasting detachable battery and HEPA filtration. And it can be shortened or elongated for all those tricky corners and heights around the house.

New York Post Review: “Eureka’s been in the vacuum game for over a century. They’re not the flashiest brand, but they’ve built a reputation for making reliable, no-nonsense machines that get the job done. I tested the Eureka ReactiSense model (currently out of stock), which glided naturally in my hand.” – Camyrn La Sala, commerce senior editor

Read her full Eureka review here.

Product details: Eureka ReactiSense 440 Cordless Vacuum, Powerful 25,800 Pa Suction, Anti-Tangle Brushroll, Sense+React Technologies, HEPA Filter, Anti-Allergenic, LED Display, Detachable Lithium-Ion Battery | What’s in the box: Eureka ReactiSense 440 Vacuum, Anti-Tangle Brushroll, Detachable Lithium-Ion Battery, Charger, User Manual | Dimensions: 45-inches Height x 10-inches Width x 11-inches Depth | Weight: 8.6 pounds | Run time: Up to 40 minutes per full charge | Special features: Anti-tangle nozzle for all floors, Powerful deep cleaning, Sense+React automatic suction adjustment, HEPA and anti-allergenic filtration, LED display for battery and maintenance, Detachable long-lasting lithium-ion battery

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How we tested

In our search for top-notch vacuum cleaners, we assessed various factors such as charging time, battery life, suction strength, and dustbin capacity over the past several months, making meticulous notes comparing them.

• Suction power: We wanted to see if it could provide a deep clean after one pass or several in our testing and how much dirt it actually picked up.

• Value: We wanted to know if each vacuum was worth the price and weighed our decisions accordingly.
• Ease of use: To gauge maneuverability comprehensively, each vacuum underwent testing across diverse terrains, from hardwood floors to thick carpeting.
• Weight: As part of our evaluation process, we considered each vacuum’s weight and potential impact on individuals with lifting disabilities, as well as dimensions to provide accurate assessments of the best options available for all.

FAQ on Cordless Vacuums

When searching for a vacuum that will truly sweep you off your feet, it can be trusted brands like Hoover, Black + Decker, Ryobi, Milwaukee, DeWALT, or any of the vacuums recommended above. The key is to choose the one that best suits your needs.

Doscher gave us some thoughtful and sage advice when investing in a cordless vacuum because this is a product that requires thoughtful investment before spending your hard-earned money.

How do cordless vacuum cleaners differ from traditional vacuums? 

“Aside from not having a cord, cordless vacuums tend to be more lightweight and are often used for lighter cleanup jobs. Handheld and stick vacuums are often cordless, but as batteries have evolved, some manufacturers are also making cordless upright models,” said Doscher.

Where should I use a cordless vacuum cleaner? 

“They are commonly used for smaller, lighter cleanup jobs. Cordless handheld vacuums are useful for cleaning above-the-floor areas, like furniture or the inside of cars,” Doscher said.

What is a good weight for a cordless vacuum?  

“It’s hard to say what a ‘good weight’ is, but the weight of the vacuum is important to consider when you are selecting a model. Ask the retailer if you can try the vacuum to make sure you are comfortable pushing, pulling and lifting it,” Doscher said. “Remember, you won’t just be cleaning with a vacuum, you will also be carrying it upstairs and between rooms. Weight probably isn’t as much of an issue with stick and handheld vacuums, which tend to be lighter than canister and upright models, but you should still make sure you will be comfortable using the vacuum.”

“Often, people will have multiple vacuums. For example, they will have a corded upright for cleaning the carpet, and a lighter stick vacuum for jobs like cleaning up around the table after dinner.”

What features do I need in a cordless vacuum?

“For example, a smaller, lighter cordless stick vacuum may work great on hard surfaces or shallow carpeting. However, it may not be as effective on thicker carpet. This will help you decide what features you need,” Doscher said.

How long does the battery typically last on a cordless vacuum? 

“This depends on the model. Check with your retailer or manufacturer before you buy and choose a model with a battery life that will meet your needs,” Doscher added.

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