We tested the best vacuums for every floor

Along with shopping for patio furniture, best-selling outdoor fire pits, and the full catalog of Amazon home items available, refreshing your space also calls for one of the best vacuums.

Truthfully, I’m a sucker — pun totally intended — for any device, gadget or gizmo that will clean my home like a charm. I reviewed the best Dyson vacuums, tried my hand at a variety of mops and experimented with all kinds of house cleaning products. Needless to say, I’m a self-proclaimed professional cleaner at this point, and it *sparks joy* for me to try new products, from cordless vacuums to all-purpose cleaners.

So, it’s only fitting to curate a major edit of the best vacuums I reviewed. Over the years, myself, along with the Post Wanted team, have tested 15+ vacuums in all shapes and sizes. From cordless to robot models, there’s something on this list for every space and every need.

Click to jump to a specific section: Best Vacuums We Reviewed | FAQ Section | How We Tested

Best Vacuums We Reviewed

Best Overall: Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty System

The Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty System is an exceptional vacuum. Because of its powerful suction and advanced technology, it ensures a thorough cleaning across multiple surfaces.

One of its standout features is the PowerDetect technology, which automatically adjusts the suction power based on the surface it’s cleaning. Whether you’re transitioning from hardwood floors to thick carpets, the vacuum adapts and boasts optimal performance, picking up even the finest dust and debris with ease. This dynamic feature makes it perfect for households with varying floor types, which eliminates the need for manual adjustments.

“As soon as it hits a particularly messy spot, you can literally hear the motor kick into high gear,” Barret Wertz, senior commerce editorial director, shared after testing the model.

Another major advantage of the Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty System is its user-friendly design, including the Clean & Empty feature that makes maintenance a breeze. Unlike many other vacuums, which require you to wrestle with dirt canisters or messy filter cleaning, this model boasts an easy-to-empty bin with one-touch release. This simplifies disposal, keeping hands clean and minimizing the hassle of vacuum maintenance.

“The auto-emptying feature is a huge plus, especially for those with allergies — no more dust clouds when you’re trying to clean the canister,” Wertz added. “Elevate your cleaning game with Shark’s cutting-edge technology.”

Additionally, its lightweight and cordless design allows for greater maneuverability, whether you’re cleaning floors, upholstery or even high-up areas like ceiling corners or vents. This portability makes it a great choice for those who want powerful suction without the burden of a bulky machine.

With its sleek design, versatile attachments, and auto-empty dock, this Shark vacuum combines power and convenience.

Type: Cordless | Weight: 7.96 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.74 quarts | Runtime: 60 minutes | Charge time: 3 to 4 hours | Warranty: 5-year limited warranty

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Most Lightweight: Dyson V12 Detect Slim+ Cordless Vacuum

Dyson’s V12 Detect Slim Vacuum is one of the most of-age vacuums we’ve ever tested — and that includes our experience with robot vacuums. It’s also one of the most lightweight models that still boasts incredible suction power.

New York Post Review: Dubbed Dyson’s “most compact intelligent cordless vacuum,” it’s clad with laser technology that scientifically shows you how well it’s cleaning on its built-in LCD screen. The screen shows what has been sucked up, while its piezo sensor sizes and counts the number of dust particles to automatically increase the suction power. In short, it’s pretty ground-breaking.

In tandem with the crevice tool and easy-to-maneuver stick handle, the V12 Detect is incredibly high-tech and apt for all kinds of spaces. This is huge, especially if you’re really particular with your deep-cleaning sessions.

Additionally, its LCD Screen proves to me, as a consumer, how much time and energy was put into designing this vacuum. Dyson wants you to comprehend exactly how it’s getting the job done — and it gets the job done efficiently!

It doesn’t take me long to vacuum smaller spaces, so the up to 60 minutes of run time is a wonderful aspect of the V12 Detect. If I’m cleaning my entire house, it’s still amazing, and when I clean just one room, I know it’ll never die on me.

While all good vacuums locate and remove dust from your floors, the V12 Detect’s Laser Slim Fluffy cleaner head has built-in laser technology you can’t normally see, ensuring you won’t miss anything. At the end of your cleaning session, your rooms will never look more refreshed.

Dyson’s V12 Detect is anywhere from $500 to $800, depending on sales, which is comparable to some robot vacuums that do it all for you. That said, we still love working the vacuum ourselves as it’s so simple to use, but it’s one con to consider before purchasing.

Type: Cordless | Weight: 5.2 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.8 quarts | Runtime: 60 minutes | Charge time: 4.5 hours | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

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Best Robot Vacuum for All Floor Types: Dyson 360 Vis Nav

Many homes have different floor types, from tiles to laminate to carpet. That can be a problem when cleaning is concerned, as not all vacuums are versatile. Instead of switching between machines, we suggest opting for Dyson’s 360 Vis Nav, which is designed to seamlessly move from your entry rug to your hardwood floors.

This Dyson’s brush bar has a wider-than-average diameter, which helps it to catch dust in places narrow brush bars can’t reach. The machine also uses a combo of carbon filaments, stiff bristles, and soft nylon fibers, so it can pull dirt from different types of surfaces, ensuring your throw rugs and bathroom floors remain pristine and dust-bunny-free.

Like typical robot vacs, this one includes an app, which can be used to map your home and schedule cleanings. While there have been some complaints about it in the past, Dyson seems to have improved on its system, and now the app is regularly (and automatically) updated for a more streamlined cleaning experience. When it’s time to recharge, the 360 Vis Nav returns to its charging dock on its own, and the one-touch disposal system makes emptying the canister easy and fairly mess-free.

Type: Cordless | Weight: 9.9 lb | Bin capacity: 0.15 gallon | Runtime: Up to 65 minutes | Charge time: 2.5 hours | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

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Best Handheld Vacuum: BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum

The BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum is a compact, powerful tool — but pet owners aren’t the only ones to reap its benefits. It features a high-performance lithium-ion battery that offers consistent power throughout its runtime, making it ideal for spot cleaning upholstery, stairs, car interiors, and even tight corners. The vacuum’s sleek, lightweight design makes it easy to handle and maneuver, so you can tackle those harder-to-reach areas without strain.

New York Post Review: 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 low-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. It boasts nearly 32,000 applauding reviews on Amazon alone! The reason? It’s a pet vacuum, first and foremost, so its ability to pick up pet hair crosses over to the usual bathroom floor hair, under-bed dust and more.

I don’t have a pet at home, and the fact that this handheld vacuum has ranked above the pack [of other handheld vacuums] 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.

The BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser also offers user-friendly features like an easy-to-empty dirt bin, which reduces the hassle of disposal, and a washable filter that helps maintain suction power. The lithium-ion battery provides up to 17 minutes of runtime on a full charge, which is perfect for smaller, quick cleaning sessions.

While the vacuum’s bin capacity is relatively small, it’s well-suited for short cleaning tasks, especially in areas where hair accumulates the most. Its affordable price and effective performance make it a must-have for any user, truly.

Type: Handheld | Weight: 3 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.72 quarts | Runtime: 17 minutes | Charge time: 4 hours | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

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Best Splurge: Dyson V15s Detect Submarine

While we know the price of the Dyson V15s Detect Submarine may put some shoppers off, hear us out: it’s really amazing. Part vacuum, part power mop, it provides two heavy-duty cleaning machines in one sleek device.

It comes with multiple heads that can be switched between, depending on your cleaning needs. The Submarine wet roller head, for example, is made to wash your floors and uses motorized microfiber rollers to really scrub stains and dirt. The Digital Motorbar cleaner head, ideal for vacuuming, automatically adapts its power suction based on your floor type. The stick vac also uses the brand’s Root Cyclone system, which separates dust from debris. This helps to prevent clogs, which hinder suction power.

The Dyson V15s Detect Submarine also converts into a handheld and comes with varying nozzels for different jobs, like between couch cushions or behind your desktop. Is it a lot for a vacuum? Yes, but its functionality and versatility make it worth it in our book.

Type: Handheld | Weight: 9 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.2 gallons | Runtime: 60 minutes | Charge time: 4.5 hours | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

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Best Robot Vacuum: Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop

“I’m always buried in tasks and struggling to find time for cleaning, yet I can’t stand a messy home,” Emma Sutton-Williams, commerce writer/reporter, shared. “Meet Winston — my affectionate nickname for the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Self-Empty Robot Vacuum and Mop. It’s become my go-to helper.”

Not only does it clean Sutton-Williams’ floors, but it also sends her updates in whatever language she chooses (note: she went with UK English). “Thanks to the easy-to-follow app and quick setup videos, getting Winston up and running was a breeze,” she added.

What she loves most is that the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop cleans on command, letting her get back to her articles and product testing without interruption. It can also be scheduled and programmed to focus on specific areas for spot cleaning.

“Using advanced home mapping technology, the vacuum avoids my designated no-go zones and always knows where to dock after finishing its cleaning route,” she said. “It’s also equipped with smart sensors that can detect obstacles (including my dog) from nearly 5 inches away.”

Its singular side brush and powerful suction really impressed her, especially when it came to tackling corners and hard-to-reach spots. “The vacuum clears out the area under my floorboard heaters, which other vacuums can’t reach, blasting air to dislodge dirt, hairballs, and other debris,” she noted.

When it’s time to mop, swapping out the dustbin is simple, and the mopping capabilities don’t disappoint. “It scrubs up to 100 times per minute, leaving my sealed and stained floors looking spotless,” she highlighted. “Although it doesn’t have a drying function, I found that any residual moisture evaporates quickly, so I don’t have to worry about slipping on wet floors.”

One of the best features is its self-emptying canister, which holds up to 60 days’ worth of dirt before needing to be emptied manually. Plus, there’s no need for bags, and the HEPA filtration system traps 99.97% of dust and allergens, making it great for anyone with sensitivities.

Type: Robot | Weight: 9.5 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.42 quarts | Runtime: 120 minutes | Charge time: 3 to 4 hours | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

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Best Vacuum for Pet Hair: Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum and Mop

The Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum and Mop is a game-changer, especially if you’re dealing with any amount of pet hair. “With two pups, Gloria and Mingo (and R.I.P. to our third, Margot), I needed something that could keep up, and the QRevo delivered,” Wertz said after reviewing the model.

This vacuum is a mid-level model, but don’t let that fool you, it’s packed with features that make it a serious contender for the best robot vacuum for pet hair. It features an anti-tangle brush roll that helps prevent fur from wrapping around the brush, giving a consistent performance even in homes with shedding pets. You’ll appreciate the model’s high suction power that picks up even the most stubborn strands from both carpets and hard floors, while the mopping function lifts and traps remaining residue for spotless, fresh floors.

The Roborock Qrevo S Robot Vacuum and Mop is worth buying because it combines powerful suction with advanced mopping functionality, allowing it to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors in one pass. Its intelligent navigation system ensures thorough coverage of your home, efficiently mapping rooms and avoiding obstacles while cleaning.

What’s more, its long-lasting battery and easy-to-use app control make it a convenient and reliable choice for anyone seeking a hands-off, high-performance cleaning solution.

“The QRevo is a vacuum and mop combo, which is already a big win in my book,” Wertz added. “It has a powerful 7,000 Pa suction system that easily pulls in dirt, dust, and pet hair. But what really sets it apart is the dual spinning mops that lift up when the vacuum detects carpet; this means you can have your hard floors mopped and your carpets vacuumed in one go without worrying about getting your rugs wet.”

He noted that the mopping system is quite impressive as well, with pads that spin at 200 revolutions per minute.

Wertz named its multifunctional dock the “star of the show” as it empties the vacuum’s dustbin, washes and dries the mop pads and refills the water tank. “I’ve never seen a robot vacuum dock do so much all by itself. It’s like having a little cleaning crew on standby, ready to spring into action whenever needed,” he said. “For someone like me, who doesn’t have time to fuss with cleaning supplies every other day, this level of automation is a dream.”

While it can occasionally bump into things or struggle with very cluttered spaces, it’s a small trade-off for the price.

Type: Robot | Weight: 9.9 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.52 quarts | Runtime: 180 minutes | Charge time: 4 to 5 hours | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

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Best Upright Vacuum Cleaner: Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Vacuum

The tried-and-true Dyson Ball Animal 2 Vacuum is the perfect cleaner for thick carpets. And when we say thick, we mean thick. Powered by Dyson’s patented Radial Root Cyclone technology, it delivers incredible suction that captures even the smallest dust particles, dirt, and pet hair. Whether you’re cleaning carpets, hard floors, or upholstery, the Dyson Ball Animal 2 excels at picking up debris.

Its self-adjusting cleaner head automatically adjusts to different floor types, ensuring optimal suction on both high-pile carpets and smooth hard surfaces, making it perfect for households with a mix of flooring.

New York Post Review: It’s impressive that this model isn’t cordless but still comes with accessories to transform the power vac into a precise cleaning machine. And there’s even a mattress tool, which is ideal. Let’s face it — when’s the last time you gave your everyday mattress a spin clean?

The textured rugs in my parents’ home aren’t fine; they have a crazy shag, deep-rooted Berber, and macrame boho area rugs that I personally don’t know how to give a true deep cleaning to. However, the Ball Animal 2 is an effective solution.”

One of the standout features of the Dyson Ball Animal 2 is its ball technology, which enables easy steering and maneuvering around furniture and obstacles. The vacuum’s ball design pivots smoothly, making it much easier to navigate tight spaces compared to traditional upright vacuums.

The vacuum also comes with a range of attachments, including a tangle-free turbine tool that effectively removes pet hair from upholstery, stairs, and other surfaces without the hassle of hair wrapping around the brush bar.

Type: Corded | Weight: 17.42 pounds | Bin capacity: 1.9 quarts | Runtime: N/A, due to its corded design | Charge time: N/A | Warranty: 5-year limited warranty

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Best Car Vacuum: Craftsman 2.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vac

The Craftsman 2.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vac is a compact and powerful vacuum designed for tackling both wet and dry messes in the workshop, garage or home. With a 2.5-gallon capacity, this shop vac strikes a balance between portability and functionality, making it ideal for smaller clean-up tasks without taking up too much storage space.

Its lightweight design (weighing only about 7 pounds) and built-in handle make it easy to carry around, whether you’re cleaning up dust, debris or liquid spills. Despite its compact size, the vacuum is equipped with a robust motor that delivers strong suction.

New York Post Review: My parents own this shop vac, and I’m constantly pulling my SUV into the driveway to deep clean my vehicle whenever I visit,” said Giardina. It’s by far the best deep-cleaning device for automobiles, particularly because of its easy-to-maneuver hose and ability to suck all of the dirt and debris from my seat floors, console area, and trunk rim.

One of the standout features of the Craftsman 2.5-Gallon Wet/Dry Shop Vac is its versatility in handling both wet and dry messes. The vacuum comes with a 2.5 horsepower motor, offering strong suction power that can handle everything from dirt and sawdust to spilled liquids. The included accessories include a 1-1/4-inch hose, crevice tool, and utility nozzle.

What’s more, its 6-foot power cord gives ample reach, allowing her to clean larger areas without having to constantly switch outlets. I never had to worry about cleaning my car straight from the garage. I always placed my shop vac on the driveway, moving the hose as I need to. It’s super convenient and surely a homeowner’s staple.

Type: Shop Vac, Corded | Weight: 6.7 pounds | Bin capacity: 10.1 quarts | Runtime: N/A, due to its corded design | Charge time: N/A | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

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Best Vacuum-Mop Combo: Roborock S8 Max Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop

The Roborock S8 Max Ultra Robot Vacuum and Mop is a top-of-the-line cleaning robot that seamlessly combines powerful suction with advanced mopping capabilities. Featuring an upgraded 5500 Pa suction power, it easily picks up dirt, dust, pet hair and even larger debris from carpets, hardwood floors, and tiles.

This vacuum powerhouse is equipped with an auto-lifting mop, which raises the mop attachment when it detects carpet; this allows it to efficiently vacuum and mop in one go without getting the carpet wet. On that note, it’s perfect for homes with both hard floors and carpeted areas, offering a thorough cleaning without the need for manual intervention.

“If you’re looking for the ultimate cleaning machine, this is it. The Roborock S8 Max Ultra is the crème de la crème of robot vacuums,” Wertz said. “This beast has it all: 10,000 Pa of suction power, advanced mopping power, and a RockDock Ultra that takes care of everything from emptying to hot drying.”

The S8 Max Ultra is not just a vacuum; it’s a full-fledged cleaning system designed to make your life easier. Whether it’s spills in the kitchen, crumbs under the couch or dust bunnies under the bed, this vacuum picks up everything. 

“If you’ve got hard floors, the advanced VibraRise 2.0 mopping system will leave them gleaming,” he said. “This system uses sonic vibrations to scrub floors at 4,000 vibrations per minute, which means even the most stubborn dirt doesn’t stand a chance. And let’s not forget the self-cleaning feature that keeps the dock itself spotless. It’s like having a personal cleaning assistant on call 24/7.”

The Roborock S8 Max Ultra excels in intelligent navigation, utilizing LiDAR and advanced mapping technologies to efficiently clean your home. It creates precise maps of your home’s layout, allowing it to navigate with precision and avoid obstacles. This model supports multi-level mapping, too, so it can remember different floors and areas of your home, providing consistent cleaning across levels.

What’s more, the vacuum’s AI-powered obstacle avoidance helps it detect and navigate around objects like furniture, cords and pet toys, reducing the risk of getting stuck or damaging items during cleaning. It can also automatically adjust suction power based on the type of flooring it encounters, maximizing cleaning efficiency while conserving energy.

“One of my favorite features of the S8 Max Ultra is the built-in video camera,” Wertz added. “As a dog dad who’s outright obsessed with my pups, I love being able to check in on them while the vacuum does its thing. The camera allows me to see what’s happening at home, which is especially reassuring when I’m out and about.”

Of course, all this luxury comes at a price. “The S8 Max Ultra is definitely an investment, but if you value convenience and want the best of the best, it’s worth every penny,” Wertz concluded.

Type: Robot | Weight: 12.1 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.48 quarts | Runtime: 180 minutes | Charge time: 4 to 5 hours | Warranty: 1-year limited warranty

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Best Wet-Dry: Tineco iFloor 3 Breeze Complete Wet-Dry Vacuum

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.

Its powerful suction picks up dirt, debris and liquid spills simultaneously, making it perfect for just about anyone looking to clean up a mess. The built-in smart sensors automatically adjust the suction power and water flow based on the floor type, ensuring optimal performance across different surfaces while preserving energy and water usage.

New York Post Review: “When I first began using the Tineco model, I was floored at how modern and cutting-edge its technology was. I’m partial to my Dyson vacuums, but I do feel like this one has a more durable frame — and is *way* less expensive than most Dyson models. I visibly see it sucking up dust from a further distance away than some other vacuums I tried, too, a nod to its impressive suction power.

“With more than 10,000 shoppers purchasing the Tineco wet-dry vacuum each month, it’s no surprise that it’s worth the cost. One of the standout features is its self-cleaning function, which keeps the vacuum and mop rollers free from dirt and debris after each use. With the push of a button, the device automatically cleans the roller and flushes the dirty water tank, making it easy to maintain.

“The vacuum also includes a washable water tank, allowing you to refill and clean it when you need to. While it could move into the body of the vacuum more easily, it’s not a dealbreaker. I usually lays the vacuum on the floor to pop into the water tank.”

The vacuum also includes its compatible solution which not only smells amazing but is key for deep cleaning your floors. The con to this is that you’ll have to repurchase the solution, though it’s worth the routine pick-me-up. Its lightweight design is also wonderful, especially for your weekend deep cleanings.

Type: Wet-Dry, Cordless | Weight: 9.26 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.63 quarts | Runtime: 25 minutes | Charge time: 4 hours | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

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Best for Small Spaces: Dyson Omni-Glide Cordless Vacuum

New York Post Review: “When I first unboxed Dyson’s Omni-Glide, I was shocked at how small it was. Sure, stick and cordless vacuums are the new wave, but this was only a few inches taller than my 4-year-old niece.

“That said, the saying ‘small, but mighty’ was certainly in mind when Dyson designed the Omni-Glide. In fact, it’s Dyson’s slimmest and most maneuverable vacuum for hard floors, featuring the brand’s first omnidirectional soft roller cleaner head that literally glides into hard-to-reach places.

“I vacuumed my living room, then walked upstairs to vacuum my bedroom, and then went outside to vacuum a small rug — and the whole cleaning process took me less than 10 minutes. Why? The vacuum is so lightweight!

“If you have intense shag (as my parents’ house does) or Berber-textured carpet, this isn’t the vacuum for you. While it does glide, I felt like it didn’t pick up embedded dust on coarser, soft floors. However, it’s dynamite on hard floors, especially the deep multi-colored brown tile in my kitchen, which is always difficult to spot where dirt lays.”

Also a best stick vacuum, the Omni-Glide is a true answer to prayer for anyone who gets frustrated lifting a heavy cleaning tool. While it’s a surefire perfect match for handheld dusting with the included crevice tool, it’s also impressive at sucking up dirt on tile floor, debris in floor molding, and even in between your stair rails — all with velvet-like, soft nylon brush bars.

You can either store the Omni-Glide with the included wall-mounted charging dock — which is great for apartment closet storage — or concentrate the cleaning device in-line under your bed or couch.

With the help of Dyson’s follow-along video, it hasn’t been easier to learn how to properly care for the new tool. Plus, emptying the bin is hands-free and shoots out straight from the vacuum’s storage when ready.

Type: Cordless | Weight: 4.1 pounds | Bin capacity: 0.21 quarts | Runtime: 20 minutes | Charge time: 3.5 hours | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

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Most Versatile: Miele Triflex HX2 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

Sutton-Williams also tested the powerful Miele Triflex HX2 Cordless Stick Vacuum, and she couldn’t be happier.

“The suction power was what sold me after testing the best cordless vacuums, comparing them side by side,” she shared. “I was impressed right away, though the almost $800 price tag had me saving up for a bit!”

The Miele Triflex HX2 can function as either a stick or handheld vacuum by simply unclipping the attachments, which come off pretty easily.

“Since I live in an apartment, I don’t need it to run for a full 60 minutes, but when I get into cleaning, I tend to go for a while, and I’ve found the battery lasts only 45-2024ish minutes,” Sutton-Williams explained. “That’s plenty for me but not as advertised.”

It’s incredibly easy to use, lightweight and maneuvers under furniture with impressive flexibility.

“Releasing the canister might require a quick peek at the manual, but once you get the hang of it, it’s simple,” she added. “Inside is the HEPA Lifetime Filter, which pops out and is easy to rinse clean. Overall, I’m giving this vacuum five stars!”

Type: Stick | Weight: 8 pounds | Bin capacity: Unlisted | Runtime: 60 minutes | Charge time: 4.5 hours | Warranty: 2-year limited warranty

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An FAQ on Vacuums

Your shopping guide to vacuums

Ahead, the Post Wanted team put together a cheat sheet to reference before making your next vacuum purchase above.

Type

• Upright Vacuums: Ideal for large homes with carpets, upright vacuums provide powerful suction and larger dustbin capacities. They are often bulkier and heavier but are great for deep cleaning.
• Canister Vacuums: Offering more maneuverability, canister vacuums are ideal for hard-to-reach places and homes with a variety of surfaces. They are often lighter than upright models.
• Stick Vacuums: Perfect for smaller spaces, quick clean-ups and homes with hard floors, stick vacuums are commonly lightweight and typically cordless, but may have smaller dustbins.
• Robot Vacuums: Great for automation and hands-free cleaning, robot vacuums are ideal for maintenance cleaning, yet less effective for deep cleaning or handling larger debris.
• Handheld Vacuums: Useful for small messes, upholstery, stairs and car interiors, handheld vacuums are compact but not ideal for whole-house cleaning.

Filtration System

• HEPA Filters: Look for vacuums with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filters, which trap fine particles, allergens and dust. These are especially beneficial for allergy sufferers and homes with pets.
• Carbon or Anti-Bacterial Filters: Some vacuums feature filters designed to neutralize odors or reduce bacterial growth, which is a great option for homes with pets.
• Cyclonic Filtration: Many modern vacuums, especially Dyson models, use cyclonic filtration to help maintain strong suction power by preventing dust from clogging the filter.

Motor

• The motor is the heart of the vacuum, determining how powerful the suction will be. Brushless motors are more efficient, quieter, and longer-lasting than traditional brushed motors.
• Higher-wattage motors generally provide better suction power, especially in vacuums intended for carpet or deep cleaning.

Suction Power

• Suction power is measured in air watts (AW) or Pascal (Pa) pressure for robotic vacuums. The higher the suction power, the more effectively the vacuum picks up dirt, debris, and pet hair.
• For deep cleaning, especially on carpets, a vacuum with high suction power (usually 200-300 AW) is preferred.
• Adjustable suction settings can be useful, allowing you to modify the power based on floor type (low for hard floors, high for carpets).

Noise Level

• Noise level is measured in decibels (dB), with quieter vacuums typically falling under 70 dB. If noise is a concern, particularly in households with pets or young children, opt for quieter models that fall within the 60-70 dB range.
• Some manufacturers provide decibel ratings, but keep in mind that suction power and noise level may be correlated; stronger suction may produce more noise.

Battery versus Corded

• Cordless Vacuums: Provide more flexibility and are ideal for quick clean-ups or homes with limited storage. However, the runtime is limited by battery life (usually 20 to 60 minutes, depending on the model), and they need to be recharged.
• Corded Vacuums: Offer continuous power, so you don’t need to worry about battery life or charging. They are often preferred for larger homes or deep cleaning, but the cord limits mobility.
• Battery Capacity: For cordless vacuums, look for lithium-ion batteries that offer better performance, longer runtime, and faster charging compared to other battery types.

Price

• Budget Models: Basic models with lower suction power and fewer features start at around $50-$100. These are good for light cleaning but may lack the durability and suction power of higher-end models.
• Mid-Range Models: Typically priced between $150-$300, these vacuums offer a balance of power, durability and additional features like HEPA filtration, adjustable suction power or longer battery life.
• High-End Models: $400 and above for premium models with advanced features such as strong suction power, advanced filtration, smart navigation (robot vacuums), quiet operation, or specialized attachments for pet hair and deep cleaning.

What is the best vacuum?

Based on our testing, the best vacuum is the Shark Cordless PowerDetect Clean & Empty System. Given its price point and performance, it caters to a wide variety of shoppers, is easy to maneuver and hails from a top brand.

Are stick vacuums as good as regular vacuums?

To most people, stick vacuums can be just as good as regular vacuums, depending on your cleaning needs, home size and preferences. While upright and canister vacuums are typically more powerful and suited for deep cleaning larger areas, stick vacuums offer several advantages that make them a compelling choice for many households.

Stick vacuums are much lighter than traditional uprights or canister models, making them easier to carry and maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. Not to mention, most are cordless. They’re convenient for quick and easy cleanups and simple to empty.

However, stick vacuums tend to have limited suction power and smaller dustbins. If you have a larger home or desire a vacuum that can tackle a variety of cleaning tasks, a traditional vacuum — like the Dyson Ball Animal 2 Upright Vacuum or the Dyson Gen5detect Cordless Vacuum — may be more your speed.

What vacuum has the highest suction power?

The suction power of a vacuum refers to the strength of a model’s airflow which, in turn, impacts how much dirt and debris it picks up.

The suction power varies for different types of vacuums, with the type of vacuum itself impacting its suction power, on average:

• Upright and canister vacuums: Typically have 100–220 AW of suction power
• Handheld vacuums: Typically have 15–60 AW of suction power
• Cordless stick vacuums: Typically have 100–280 AW of suction power
• Robot vacuums: Typically have 2,500–6,000 Pa of suction power

Among the vacuums the Post Wanted team has tested, the Shark Matrix Plus 2-in-1 Robot Vacuum and Mop has the most significant suction power.

How I Tested

Below, find the rigorous testing criteria the Post Wanted team followed when reviewing the best vacuums for years. Of course, several factors should be considered when shopping for your next quality vacuum to ensure it meets your specific cleaning needs and fits within your lifestyle.

• Suction Power: Look for vacuums with adjustable suction settings so you can fine-tune the power for different surfaces. High suction power is particularly important for deep cleaning carpets, picking up pet hair or handling larger debris.
• Filtration System: HEPA filters are great for those with allergies. Additionally, consider vacuums with multi-stage filtration or washable filters for easy maintenance and long-term performance.
• Type: Whether cordless, upright, stick, vacuum, wet-dry or handheld, vacuums come in all shapes and sizes. It’s important to thoroughly read our individual reviews to note which one is best suited for your lifestyle.
• Capacity: You’ll want to look for a vacuum with a spacious dustbin capacity to ensure it can last for long cleaning sessions. On this note, runtime is another important factor.
• Noise level: Some vacuums are so exceptional, noise isn’t a big deal. However, it is something to note, especially if you tend to do your cleaning at times when other people in the household are sleeping or in need of some quiet time.
• Attachments and special features: Varying from vacuum to vacuum, characteristics like built-in crevice tools and the ability to double as a mop add to certain models’ appeal. Not to mention, hands-free cleaning and smart home mapping, which you’ll find integrated into plenty of robot vacuums.

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This article was written by Victoria McDonnell, New York Post Commerce Journalist & Content Strategist. Victoria tests the latest and greatest cleaning products to compare the best results from household cleaners, appliances and vacuums (yes, she’s reviewed and ranked nearly every Dyson). Armed with expert recommendations and FAQs, she evaluates formulas, functions and features to determine the very best items on the market – and goes the extra mile to find them on sale. Victoria has been creating shopping guides for the New York Post since 2021 and previously held positions at Insider Reviews and CNN Underscored.

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