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In the world of cleaning appliances, cordless vacuums have revolutionized the way we tackle everyday messes. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the best one for your needs. That's why we've done the research for you and compiled a comprehensive guide to the best cordless vacuums of 2023. From testing their cleaning ability to comparing battery life and suction power, we've got you covered. So whether you're in search of a high-end premium option, a mid-priced alternative, or a budget-friendly choice, we've got something for everyone. Join us as we dive into the world of cordless vacuums and discover the top contenders for your cleaning needs.

Top cordless vacuum cleaners in 2023

Alternative cordless vacuum cleaners with exceptional cleaning power

Tineco Pure One S15 Pet: Tineco's Pure One S15 Pet is another high-performing option that closely resembles our top pick, the S11. However, it comes at a higher price of $500, offering an anti-tangle brush head designed specifically for tackling a larger amount of pet hair. It also features a free-standing dock, eliminating the need for wall drilling. It performed well in both sand and rice tests, although the S11 had slightly better cleaning power and value.

Samsung Jet 90: When it comes to the mid-pile sand test, only three out of the fifteen cordless vacuums we've tested achieved an average pickup percentage above 80%. These include the Dyson V15 Detect, Tineco Pure One S15 Pet, and the Samsung Jet 90. The Samsung Jet 90, in particular, outperforms others with an impressive mid-pile sand pickup percentage of 98%. Although it comes with a hefty retail price of 0, it's worth considering if you have thick carpets in your home.

Samsung Jet 75: Similar to the Jet 90, the Samsung Jet 75 offers comparable cleaning power and an attractive design. It features a 60-minute battery life, HEPA filtration, and 200 air watts of suction. The main difference lies in the dock design, as the Jet 90 has a free-standing dock while the Jet 75 requires wall drilling. Although it didn't perform as well as the Jet 90 in the mid-pile sand test, it still delivers overall satisfactory results and retails for a slightly lower price of 0.

Dyson V11 Torque Drive: With an adaptive motor and a sleek LCD display, the Dyson V11 Torque Drive presents itself as a premium upgrade. Retailing at 0 (often on sale for around $500), it lives up to the hype with consistent cleaning power across all tests. However, newer models like the Dyson V15 Detect, as well as more affordable options from Tineco and Samsung, have outperformed it.

Other cost-effective cordless vacuum options

Shark Rocket Pet Pro: Despite being our previous budget pick, the Shark Rocket Pet Pro remains a reliable choice in 2023 if you can find it in stock. Typically priced under $300, it offers excellent performance on hardwood floors and with small debris, as well as satisfactory pickup power on carpets and dust. It features HEPA filtration and a self-cleaning, anti-tangle brush head, making it ideal for pet hair prevention. Additionally, it converts to a handheld cleaner for added convenience.

Moosoo XL-618: While the Moosoo XL-618 didn't perform exceptionally well in our toughest tests, it proves to be capable enough for basic cleaning, especially with crumbs and on hardwood floors. It also serves as a handheld vacuum, making it suitable for cleaning cars or furniture. With a retail price of $150 (often on sale for around $100), it's one of the most affordable cordless vacuum options available, making it worth considering for those on a budget.

Our process for testing cordless vacuums

Evaluating cordless vacuums is a time-consuming process that requires careful examination. We gathered 15 of the latest models from top vacuum brands, considering user ratings and reviews, and subjected them to a series of tests to measure their overall performance. We also included cordless vacuums in various price ranges to determine the impact of cost on performance.

Testing the cleaning capabilities of each cordless vacuum

We conducted tests using three types of soil: play sand and landscaping sand for small particle simulation, uncooked black rice for larger dirt particles, and clippings sourced from a local pet groomer to assess pet hair performance. These tests were carried out on three different floor types.

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We performed three runs on each floor type and measured the weight of the vacuum's dust bin before and after each run. This allowed us to calculate the percentage of dirt and debris pickup for each run and determine the average amount of soil removed by each vacuum. Additionally, we visually tested the vacuums for their ability to handle pet hair on all floor types, aiding in our selection of the best cordless vacuum.

Top-performing cordless vacuums in CNET tests

Now, let's dive into the numbers, starting with the results of our sand tests. The table below displays the average percentage of sand removed by each vacuum from the three test surfaces. The vacuums are ranked based on their overall sand removal performance, allowing you to view them as potential sand test leaders.

Percentage of sand removed

Dyson V15 Detect 96.93% 95.28% 88.43%Samsung Jet 90 93.05% 85.71% 97.73%Tineco Pure One S11 98.77% 93.38% 78.43%Tineco Pure One S15 Pet 100.00% 88.33% 81.43%Samsung Jet 75 98.61% 90.56% 78.89%Tineco A11 Hero 98.47% 82.50% 72.45%Samsung Bespoke Jet 94.87% 81.25% 77.08%Dyson V11 Torque Drive 99.59% 78.43% 71.57%LG CordZero ThinQ 97.12% 80.88% 67.97%Shark Rocket Pet Pro 100.00% 67.59% 72.41%Eureka RapidClean Pro 94.44% 64.81% 60.37%Dyson V8 Absolute 97.94% 68.30% 52.12%Bissell IconPet 89.74% 66.16% 54.04%Moosoo XL-618 99.07% 41.30% 52.22%Aposen Cordless Vacuum 67.09% 27.95% 37.67%

  • Sand removal from hardwood floors
  • Sand removal from low-pile carpet
  • Sand removal from mid-pile carpet
Note: The results indicate the average percentage of total material removed from each test surface. The Dyson V15 Detect emerges as the overall top performer in the sand tests. However, it's worth noting that the Samsung Jet 90 outperforms it significantly on thick, plushy mid-pile carpets. Cleaning sand from such carpets poses a significant challenge, as most vacuums struggle to remove even 80% of it. The Jet 90, however, achieves an impressive 98% sand removal percentage. If you have carpets similar to those, the Jet 90 deserves serious consideration.

On the other hand, the Tineco Pure One S11 is the only cordless vacuum in the top 5 of our sand tests that is priced under $500. Retailing at $400 or less during sales, it offers excellent performance at a competitive value, making it our top recommended cordless vacuum.

Moving on to our rice tests, which measure the removal of larger debris such as crumbs, we observed that several vacuums achieved a perfect rating across all three surfaces. This includes the Shark Rocket Pet Pro and the Moosoo XL-618, both of which are considered value picks. While they didn't excel in the sand tests, they proved capable of handling larger debris.

The black and green Bissell IconPet cordless vacuum in the process of cleaning the test carpets at CNET's product-testing lab in Louisville, Kentucky.

The Bissell IconPet, with its sleek black and green design and built-in headlights, did not rank among the top performers in our tests.

Additional factors to consider when choosing a cordless vacuum

When selecting the top vacuum cleaners in various categories, we took into account other aspects associated with each model. We made a note of any vacuums with notably short battery life or a particularly heavy weight, as these factors may make them less desirable options. 

Battery life and duration of cordless vacuums

Most of the vacuums on our list have a runtime of 40 minutes before requiring another charge. However, there is a growing number of models that now offer higher-capacity batteries with runtimes of 60 minutes per charge. In reality, it is rare for someone to need more than 40 minutes of runtime for a single vacuuming session, and the availability of charging docks makes it convenient to recharge between cleaning runs. Due to this, battery life was not given a significant weight compared to other features.

Weight, size, and bin capacity of cordless vacuums

All of the cordless vacuums we tested weighed between 4 and 7 pounds, but none of them were so heavy that it influenced our recommendation. Furthermore, all the vacuums on our list had similar heights and overall dimensions. The Dyson models were approximately 49 inches tall, while the Tineco A11 was shorter at just 43 inches in height. 

The Dyson and Tineco models all had bin volumes of about 0.6 liters, which is quite common in this category. On the other hand, our budget pick, the Moosoo XL-618, had twice the capacity with 1.3 liters, reducing the frequency of bin emptying.

Warranties for cordless vacuums

The duration of cordless vacuum warranties can vary depending on the manufacturer and model, but most of the models we tested offered at least one year of coverage, if not two. The Dyson and Tineco models we tested both offered a two-year warranty, while the Samsung Bespoke Jet provided the same coverage. However, Samsung offers only one year of warranty for its Jet 75 and Jet 90 cleaners.

Samsung Bespoke Jet Pro Extra VS20A95973B/WA

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)Samsung Bespoke Jet Pro Extra VS20A95973B/WATied for the highest-rated cordless vacuum cleaner

Henry Quick

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)Henry QuickMost maneuverable cordless vacuum

Bosch Serie | 8 Unlimited Gen2 Silver

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)Bosch Serie | 8 Unlimited Gen2 SilverRating: 94/100

If you have children or grandchildren who leave behind biscuit crumbs as they run around, this vacuum will swiftly suck them up and more. In fact, during our tests, it removed 107 percent of the debris we scattered, including the biscuits themselves. 

It proved equally efficient on hard floors, short pile carpets, and floorboards, effectively removing most dirt in just one stroke. It faced some challenges with long pile carpets but still performed admirably. It is agile and also demonstrated impressive performance in cars. 

On eco mode, the battery lasted for over an hour, while using multiple speeds provided us with 21 minutes of usage. Its quick charger can provide more power in just one hour, although the initial charge took over four hours. We found it somewhat uncomfortable to use and attaching the accessories to the base can be fiddly. However, emptying the dust canister is effortless.

Beko PowerClean Cordless Vacuum Cleaner VRT94929VI

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)Beko PowerClean Cordless Vacuum Cleaner VRT94929VITop cordless vacuum for hard-to-reach areas

Shark Stratos Pet Pro Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner with Anti Hair Wrap Plus & Clean Sense IQ IZ420UKT [Double Battery]

UK Approved(Esquire,Red,HB,GH,Country Living,Prima)Shark Stratos Pet Pro Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner with Anti Hair Wrap Plus & Clean Sense IQ IZ420UKT [Double Battery]Rating: 91/100

Freshen up your home with this innovative new vacuum from Shark that comes with integrated air-freshening technology to tackle any lingering odors. Its cleaning capabilities are equally impressive – it effortlessly removes pet hair and thoroughly eliminates even the tiniest crumbs on carpets.

With Shark's signature user-friendly design, this vacuum is equipped with two batteries, ensuring a runtime of 35 minutes on the standard setting. Plus, its 'clean sense IQ' technology automatically increases power when it detects areas that need extra attention.

While other models may excel at removing pet hair from car upholstery and glide more smoothly on hard floors, these are minor concerns compared to the exceptional cleaning performance of this vacuum.

Are cordless vacuums as effective as corded ones?

best stick vacuums.The short answer is yes. However, whether they are suitable for your home depends on factors such as size and cleaning preferences. If you have a larger home and prefer to complete cleaning tasks in one go, stick vacuums with their smaller capacity and limited battery life may not be the ideal choice. In such cases, a cylinder vacuum could be a more practical alternative.

On the other hand, if you prefer a room-by-room approach and don't mind emptying the canister or recharging the batteries more frequently, a stick vacuum can be just as effective, if not better, than a corded one for your home.

Top Premium Choices

Best Premium Cordless VacuumsPremium cordless vacuums fall within the high-end price range, typically above $500. These models are the crème de la crème, offering the most power and longest run time.

With exceptionally high airflow and suction capabilities, these vacuums are particularly effective at deep-cleaning carpets and removing embedded debris.

In terms of aesthetics and functionality, most premium vacuums feature a quick-release lever for easy accessory interchangeability.

However, it's worth noting that these high-quality vacuums come at a considerable cost.

Overall, the Dyson V15 Detect offers the best combination of performance, run time, and features, making it the top choice.

It is particularly renowned for its ability to deeply clean carpets, though it comes with a higher price tag compared to other options.

If the Dyson V15 is beyond your budget, the Simplicity S65 offers excellent performance at a more affordable price.

Best Overall: Dyson V15 Detect

Dyson V15 Detect

  • Airflow: 73 CFM.
  • Dust bin size: 0.77 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning: 100%
  • Weight: 6.8 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 84:19 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 80.8 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self-Standing: No

Most Tools: Tineco Pure One S12

Tineco Pure One S12

  • Airflow: 61.72 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.6 liters
  • Fog Test: Some Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.9%
  • Deep Cleaning: 98.3%
  • Weight: 6.6 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 51:21 mins. x 2
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 70.4 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self-Standing: No

Upright-Like Capacity: Lupe Pure Cordless

Lupe Pure

  • Airflow: 43.06 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 1.0 liters
  • Fog Test: Some Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.82%
  • Deep Cleaning: 99.9%
  • Weight: 10.14 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 60 mins.
  • Recharge: 3.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 9 Murata high drain, high capacity Li-ion
  • Noise: 81.7 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self-Standing: Yes

Value-for-Money Premium: Simplicity S65

Simplicity S65 cordless multi surface

  • Airflow: 44.55 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.5 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning: 97.5%
  • Weight: 6 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 29:31 mins.
  • Recharge: 4 hrs.
  • Battery: 2000 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 78.4 dB
  • Warranty: 1 yr.
  • Self-Standing: No

Lightweight Option: Dyson V12 Detect

Dyson V12 Detect

  • Airflow: 58.74 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.35 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.9%
  • Deep Cleaning: 94.1%
  • Weight: 5.2 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 63 mins.
  • Recharge: 3-4 hrs.
  • Battery: 2000 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 78.4 dB
  • Warranty: 1 yr.
  • Self-Standing: No

More Affordable Than the V15: Dyson V11 Torque Drive

Dyson V11 Torque Drive

  • Airflow: 66.13 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.77 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.4%
  • Deep Cleaning: 100%
  • Weight: 6.68 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 74:58 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 78.9 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self-Standing: No

Upright Capacity: Dyson V11 Outsize

Dyson V11 Outsize

  • Airflow: 66.65 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 1.89 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 100%
  • Deep Cleaning: 100%
  • Weight: 7.85 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 85:24 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 78.8 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self-Standing: No

Dyson V10

Dyson V10

  • Airflow: 59.71 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.77 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 100%
  • Deep Cleaning: 97.03%
  • Weight: 5.9 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 61:59 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 76.7 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self-Standing: No

Top Mid-Range Options

Best Cordless Vacuums in the Mid-Range PriceMid-range cordless vacuums fall into the price range of $200 to just under $500. While they may not boast the same power as their high-end counterparts, these options still offer great value at a more affordable cost.

It's important to note that these options may not perform as well as a premium stick vacuum when it comes to deep cleaning carpets. However, they are still reliable choices for homes with a combination of hard floors and carpets.

But don't underestimate the potential of some of these options when it comes to hard floors. The Shark Vertex Cordless and the Dyson Omni Glide, in particular, excel in this area.

Superb for Hard Floors: Shark Vertex Pro Cordless

Shark Vertex Pro

  • Airflow: 48.25 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 1.28 liters
  • Fog Test Results: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.4%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 92.75%
  • Weight: 9.04 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 101 minutes
  • Recharge Time: 4 hours
  • Battery: 2350 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 89.4 dB
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Self-Standing: Yes

Best Value for Money: Tineco A11

Tineco A11

  • Airflow: 58 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.6 liters
  • Fog Test Results: Some Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.4%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 96.45%
  • Weight: 3.74 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 26 minutes and 44 seconds
  • Recharge Time: 3.5 – 4 hours
  • Battery: 2,000 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 75.4 dB
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Self-Standing: No

Best Maneuverability [Hard Floors]: Dyson Omni Glide

Dyson Omni Glide

  • Airflow: 31.94 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.18 liters
  • Fog Test Results: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.35%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: N/A
  • Weight: 4.18 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 23 minutes and 30 seconds
  • Recharge Time: 3.5 hours
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 76 dB
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Self-Standing: No

Excellent for Long Hair: DreameTech T30

Dreame T30

  • Airflow: 58.35 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.66 liters
  • Fog Test Results: Some Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 94%
  • Weight: 3.74 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 91 minutes and 10 seconds
  • Recharge Time: 3.5 – 4 hours
  • Battery: 2900 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 78.3 dB
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Self-Standing: No

LG CordZero A9

LG CordZero A9

  • Airflow: 52 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.399 liters
  • Fog Test Results: Some Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 100%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 94.75%
  • Weight: 8.06 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 43 minutes
  • Recharge Time: 3 to 4 hours
  • Battery: 2300 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 79.4 dB
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Self-Standing: Yes

Miele Triflex HX1

Miele Triflex HX1

  • Airflow: 54.88 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.5 liters
  • Fog Test Results: Heavy Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 100%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 94.15%
  • Weight: 8.06 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 62 minutes and 43 seconds
  • Recharge Time: 4 hours
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 83.8 dB
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Self-Standing: No

Tineco A10

Tineco A10

  • Airflow: 51 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.4 liters
  • Fog Test Results: Heavy Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 94.7%
  • Weight: 2.87 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 26 minutes and 44 seconds
  • Recharge Time: 3 to 4 hours
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 77.7 dB
  • Warranty: 2 years
  • Self-Standing: No

Top Affordable Alternatives

Lastly, let's talk about budget-friendly cordless vacuums. These models are the most economical and are perfect for individuals who are mindful of their spending while still seeking a reliable cord-free vacuum.

Despite their low prices, some of these alternatives surprisingly possess above-average airflow. Thus, their cleaning performance isn't far off from their mid-range or high-end counterparts.

One key drawback of these affordable options, however, is their lack of effective filtration. Despite claims of HEPA filtration, none of them passed the fog test.

This means that fine particles of dust and allergens may escape through the exhaust.

Therefore, I would not recommend these options for individuals with allergies.

Above-Average Cleaning: Moosoo K17

Moosoo K17

  • Airflow: 41.31 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.5 liters
  • Fog Test Results: Heavy Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 89.4%
  • Weight: 2.79 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 30 minutes
  • Recharge Time: 4 hours
  • Battery: 2200 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 71.2 dB
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Self-Standing: No

Jashen V16

Jashen V16

  • Airflow: 39.25 CFM
  • Dust bin capacity: 0.5 liters
  • Fog Test Results: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.6%
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 87%
  • Weight: 2.79 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 44 minutes
  • Recharge Time: 3 to 4 hours
  • Battery: 2,500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise Level: 76.6 dB
  • Warranty: 1 year
  • Self-Standing: No

Top Robot Vacuums

Comparison between Roomba Combo J7 and Roborock S7For those seeking automated vacuuming solutions, robot vacuums are the way to go.

Thanks to advancements in navigation and battery technologies, robot vacuums have become increasingly popular options for automating the cleaning process.

It's worth noting that robot vacuums tend to be pricier than stick vacuums due to the added technologies involved.

While brands like Roborock and iRobot remain fan favorites, alternatives from Yeedi, Shark, and Dreame provide cost-effective options for those who find Roomba or Roborock too expensive.

Ultimate Autonomy: Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra

  • Airflow: 13.39 CFM
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 77.95%
  • Navigation: Front Camera Gyroscope
  • Self-emptying: Yes
  • Bag capacity: 2.5 liters
  • Clean water tank capacity: 3 liters
  • Dirty water tank capacity: 2.5 liters
  • Map saving: Yes
  • Number of maps: 4
  • Containment: Yes
  • Selective Room cleaning: Yes
  • Recharge & Resume: Yes
  • Brush roll: Twin rubber extractors
  • Dustbin capacity: 400ml
  • Mopping: Yes
  • Water tank (inside robot): 200ml
  • Type: N/A
  • Side brush: One
  • Battery: 5200 mAh Li-ion
  • Run time: 180 minutes
  • Noise Level: 72.9 dB

More Affordable Option: Dreame L10S Ultra

Dreame L10S Ultra Review

  • Airflow: 14.98 CFM
  • Deep cleaning Performance: 77.95%
  • Mopping: Yes
  • Auto emptying: Yes
  • Bag capacity: 3 liters
  • Clean water tank capacity: 2.5 liters
  • Dirty water tank capacity: 2.4 liters
  • Navigation: LIDAR & SLAM
  • Map saving: Yes
  • Number of maps: 4
  • Containment: Yes
  • Selective room cleaning: Yes
  • Recharge & Resume: Yes
  • Dustbin capacity: 350ml
  • Water tank (inside robot): N/A
  • Side brush: One
  • Battery: 5200 mAh Li-ion
  • Run time: 210 minutes
  • Noise Level: 63.6 dB

Versatile Roomba: Roomba Combo J7

Roomba Combo J7

  • Airflow: 9.8 CFM
  • Deep Cleaning Performance: 88.3%
  • Navigation: Front Camera Gyroscope Optical Sensor
  • Self-emptying: Yes
  • Bag capacity: 2.4 liters
  • Map saving: Yes
  • Number of maps: 10
  • Containment: Yes
  • Selective room cleaning: Yes
  • Recharge & Resume: Yes
  • Brush roll: Twin rubber extractors
  • Dustbin capacity:

    Top Pick: Dyson V15 Detect

    Dyson V15 Detect

    Advantages

    • Exceptional at eliminating entrenched sand from mid pile carpet
    • Remarkably long battery life (up to 80 minutes on hard floors)
    • The green laser light highlights dust on hard floors
    • One of the most effective at removing long hair from carpet or upholstery

    Disadvantages

    • Exorbitantly priced
    • The top-heavy design can be fatiguing to use in handheld mode
    The Dyson V15 Detect showcases the culmination of Dyson's research and development efforts.

    In my opinion, it offers the best combination of cleaning technology for various surfaces.

    The most remarkable feature is the green laser that accentuates dust particles.

    Dyson V15 green light expose dust particlesI have tested numerous cordless vacuums with bright LED headlights (such as the Shark ION P50), but none of them compare to the V15 when it comes to highlighting dust particles.

    The standard brush roll has also been enhanced with specialized combs, improving its ability to resist tangling.

    Dyson V15 high torque floor toolIt is one of the most effective at preventing tangles caused by long hair strands (over 10 inches).

    Additionally, the torque screw tool is a superb mini turbo brush attachment for picking up long hair.

    Dyson V15 torque screw attachment in actionThese innovations make the V15 Detect the best cordless vacuum I have tested, not only on floors but also for upholstery.

    Unfortunately, the vacuum isn't without its flaws, and the most glaring of these is its price.

    The V15 Detect is quite expensive and may deter many prospective buyers.

    Another issue to note is its ergonomics. These new-generation Dyson stick vacuums have a top-heavy design with a larger dustbin.

    This top-heaviness can strain the arm with prolonged use, especially on carpets where the suction creates resistance.

    However, if these drawbacks don't bother you and you are looking for a vacuum that excels at cleaning both hard floors and carpets, the V15 Detect is definitely worth considering.

    Top Choice for Hard Floors: Shark Vertex Pro Cordless

    Shark Vertex vs. Vertex Pro self-standing

    Advantages

    • Great at cleaning large quantities of debris on hard floors
    • Superior to the previous Duo Clean nozzle in preventing tangles
    • Self-standing feature
    • Above-average dirt capacity
    • Detachable battery
    • Decent at removing embedded dirt from carpet

    Disadvantages

    • Noisy, particularly in carpet mode
    • Below-average battery life
    Shark is one of the leading innovators in the industry, and their innovation comes in the form of the Duo Clean system.

    The Vertex cordless improves upon the shortcomings of the original Duo Clean design.

    The first improvement is in the brush design. The old Duo Clean utilized only bristles and was prone to tangling with hair.

    How to remove soft roller from Shark ION P50 step 3Shark added fins and a comb above the brush roll to help untangle hair, and the results have been positive.

    Shark Vertex cordless combsI conducted rigorous tests on hard floors and carpets, and there were barely any tangled hairs on the brush.

    Shark Vertex cordless nozzle after 12-inch testUpdate Mar 20, 2022: While the first-generation Vertex excelled at picking up debris on hard floors, it had limitations, particularly in terms of battery life and interface.

    The older Vertex had more airflow, but the battery life was below average. This issue has been addressed in the Pro version, as it is equipped with two batteries and a dual charger to allow simultaneous recharging.

    The Pro version has slightly decreased airflow, resulting in a slight drop in performance, but the new interface makes it easier to use and access higher power settings.

    Shark Vertex Pro handle controlI appreciate how the Shark Vertex effortlessly picks up larger amounts of debris without any issues.

    The soft roller at the front provides ample clearance and avoids pushing large dirt quantities around.

    However, the dual brush system consumes more power, reducing the battery life by almost half.

    The Vertex has a battery life of up to 36 minutes with the Duo Clean nozzle on hard floors and only 22 minutes on carpets.

    This is its most significant drawback, but it can be offset by purchasing additional batteries.

    In addition to the below-average battery life, another issue is its usability as a handheld vacuum.

    It does not come with many tools, and the handle placement is not ideal for handheld use.

    Best Value for Money: Tineco A11

    Tienco A11

    Advantages

    • Lightweight design
    • High-end cleaning performance at a mid-range price
    • Includes two detachable batteries
    • Comes with a wide range of attachments
    • Decent-sized dustbin

    Disadvantages

    • Not as maneuverable as a Dyson
    • Leakage during the fog test
    • Filters become dirty quickly and require frequent cleaning
    The Tineco A11 is potentially the best value-for-money option among the stick vacuums I have tested, delivering high-end cleaning performance at a more affordable price point.

    Tineco is a brand striving to rival Dyson in the cordless vacuum market, and the A11 is one of their standout products.

    Depending on the variant you choose, it may come with just the standard nozzle or include a soft roller attachment.

    Tineco A11 main cleaning heads view underneathOne of the selling points of the A11 is the variety of attachments it comes with.

    Tineco A11 toolsThese tools are useful in their own right and take advantage of the vacuum's lightweight design. The A11 excels in above-the-floor cleaning tasks.

    There are no major issues with the A11, but its steering is the biggest concern.

    One viewer mentioned liking the A11's steering, indicating that consumers are generally satisfied with it.

    However, it does have a wider turning radius and cannot rotate as sharply as a Dyson.

    Superb Maneuverability: Dyson Omni-Glide

    Dyson Omni Glide full body

    Advantages

    • First-of-its-kind 360-degree steering
    • Extremely lightweight design
    • Excellent for cleaning non-carpeted stairs
    • Unparalleled maneuverability under furniture

    Disadvantages

    • Not suitable for carpeted surfaces
    • Small dustbin size
    • Short battery life
    While most vacuum cleaners move in four directions (forward, backward, left, and right), the Dyson Omni-Glide breaks the mold with its industry-first 360-degree steering capability.

    Dyson achieves this by utilizing a twin roller system and four caster wheels, enabling the vacuum to make full turns while cleaning in both directions.

    Dyson Omni roller underneathThe streamlined design sets the Omni Glide apart from typical Dyson stick vacuums, allowing it to reach further under furniture than any other Dyson product.

    I appreciate how this feature translates into real-world use, as I have extensively used it to clean my own home.

    The Omni Glide is an ideal option for smaller homes with hard floors.

    However, it is not suitable for carpets as the rollers do not spin, even on lightweight area rugs.

    The cylindrical design is not optimized for handheld use, although it is still functional, albeit not as effective as the Micro 1.5KG.

    Perfect for Long Hair: DreameTech T30

    DreameTech T30 smart screen

    Advantages

    • Extended battery life (up to 91 minutes)
    • Excellent at picking up hair from carpets
    • Above-average cleaning performance
    • Detachable battery
    • Interactive screen displays real-time data, including battery life

    Disadvantages

    • Less responsive in terms of steering
    • No soft roller attachment, resulting in less efficient cleaning on hard floors
    • Visible leakage during the fog test
    I felt compelled to include the DreameTech T30 in this list due to its ability to prevent tangles caused by long hair strands.

    Its high suction power and the combs on the brush roll contribute to efficient untangling.

    Even with the combs positioned in the middle, the T30 effectively prevents tangles, even with 12-inch hair strands.

    The brush remained free of any entangled hair, even after testing with more than a gram of hair.

    DreameTech T30 hair wrap on carpetThese results were not limited to small quantities of hair but extended to larger amounts.

    The cleaning performance of the T30 is also excellent, particularly on carpets, where it achieved a high percentage of dirt removal.

    However, its deep cleaning capabilities (94%) do not match those of other high-end options such as Dyson and Tineco.

    Nonetheless, it still ranks among the top cordless vacuums available.

    Some concerns with the DreameTech T30 include its less responsive steering and the absence of a soft roller attachment, resulting in slightly less efficient cleaning on hard floors.

    During the fog test, visible leaks were observed as well.

Economical Option: Moosoo K17

Advantages

  • Affordable cordless stick vacuum choice
  • Lightweight design
  • Outstanding cleaning performance on both hard floors and carpets

Drawbacks

  • Significant leakage during the fog test
  • Lacks responsive maneuverability
  • Limited assortment of attachments
Finally, we have the Moosoo K17, the last option on this list. This budget-friendly stick vacuum not only offers exceptional performance, but also represents great value for money for budget-conscious shoppers.

It achieved a remarkably high score in both surface and deep cleaning tests.

However, it's worth noting that the K17 may not match the quality of premium brands in terms of fit and finish.

Nevertheless, it excels in debris pick-up, which explains its popularity.

Unfortunately, the Moosoo K17 is no longer available on Amazon, but it can still be purchased from retailers such as Walmart and Moosoo's official website.

Another downside of the K17 is its lack of filtration, which is a common trait among most budget cordless vacuums. Allergy sufferers might want to consider the Jashen V16 instead.

Top Robot Vacuum: Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra

Advantages

  • Most versatile robot vacuum option featuring pad-washing and self-emptying capabilities
  • Efficient navigation
  • Exceptional surface debris pick-up
  • Feature-rich app with frequent updates
  • Decent obstacle avoidance
  • Proficient auto-empty performance

Drawbacks

  • Extremely high price
  • Below-average deep cleaning performance
The S7 MaxV Ultra is one of Roborock's latest offerings and the first to offer both pad-washing and self-emptying features.

With the release of the S8 MaxV Ultra, one can expect a decrease in the price of the S7 MaxV, which is great news for consumers looking to save some money.

This robot vacuum stands out as the best choice due to its efficient navigation, obstacle avoidance, hands-free convenience, feature-rich app, and above-average cleaning performance.

While it may not have the deep cleaning capabilities of a Roomba product, its ability to effectively clean surface debris, mop, and navigate makes up for this deficiency.

One significant drawback, however, is its hefty price tag. The Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra is one of the most expensive options on the market.

Which cordless vacuum has the longest battery life [run time]?

Battery life is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a cordless vacuum. To determine how long each model lasts, I conducted tests running each vacuum from full to empty using the cleaning nozzle and non-powered tools.

The overall winner in terms of endurance is the Roidmi X30, surpassing its claimed 70-minute runtime with a remarkable duration of over 110 minutes.

The Roborock H7 comes in second with a runtime of 91 minutes. Please note that these results were obtained using non-powered tools.

With the cleaning head attached, the ultimate winner is the V11 Outsize, clocking in at 85 minutes on hard floors with the torque drive attachment.

Similarly, in the carpet test, the V11 Outsize outlasted the competition, delivering up to 64 minutes of runtime.

Another aspect to consider regarding battery life is whether or not the batteries are detachable. A removable battery makes it easier to extend the runtime or replace it if necessary.

Which cordless vacuum is the loudest?

Next, let's examine the noise levels of different cordless vacuum options. It is important to note that the results provided below are based on tests conducted with the cleaning nozzle attached, as this is how the vacuums would typically be used.

Unfortunately, high-performing cordless vacuums tend to produce more noise, as models with greater airflow and suction power typically generate more sound.

Which cordless vacuum has the most powerful suction and airflow?

Suction power is another important criterion to consider. Here are the results obtained from experiments conducted using the water lift gauge, suction gauge, and Y-gauge.

Please note that this is a recent test that I have implemented, and not all vacuums have been tested yet.

In my opinion, the most reliable test is the unsealed test, as it accurately represents the working suction of a vacuum.

Surprisingly, the Dreame T30 boasts the most impressive suction overall in both the sealed (direct) and unsealed (Y-gauge) tests, followed closely by the Dyson V15 Detect.

The Roborock H7 is a surprising third, at least in terms of sealed direct test results, with the V11 Outsize following closely behind.

Now, let's shift our focus to the airflow test results.

There is a direct correlation between high airflow and performance, especially when it comes to cleaning carpets.

Cordless vacuums that achieved high scores in this category typically excel at picking up embedded sand during deep cleaning tests.

While other factors such as brush roll design play a role, airflow plays a critical role in determining the performance of a stick vacuum.

The Dyson V15 Detect emerges as the leading cordless vacuum in terms of airflow, clocking in at 73 CFM (Cubic Feet per Minute), making it the only option surpassing the 70 CFM threshold.

This is one of the key reasons why the V15 Detect is considered one of the best stick vacuums on the market.

Cleaning performance comparison

Next, let's compare the cleaning performances of these vacuums against each other using the new metrics I have introduced.

Here is a list of the (most) cordless stick vacuums I have tested, along with their respective scores.

* No carpet tests were conducted as the Omni Glide rollers are not suitable for this surface.

The V11 Outsize emerged as the overall winner, achieving a perfect score of 100% across all five categories.

In a close second place is the V15 Detect, with an average score of 99.91%.

There were also a few surprises, with the mid-priced options Tineco A10 and A11 performing exceptionally well, placing them among the top contenders.

Which cordless vacuum performs the best on hard floors?

For hard floors, I recommend opting for a vacuum equipped with a soft roller.

Most models that feature a soft roller are highly effective at cleaning debris on this type of surface.

Despite its perfect score, I do not recommend using the Dyson V11 Outsize on hard floors due to its inefficiency.

The perfect score was achieved using the auto and max settings.

Furthermore, this inefficiency is evident in the test results.

It left behind a trail of sand during the forward pass, which would not be an issue when using a vacuum with a soft roller.

Consumers should also consider other features when selecting a product.

Brands such as Shark and Dyson have introduced innovative features to enhance the efficiency of cleaning hard floors.

The Dyson V15, for example, incorporates a green laser light that amplifies the visibility of dust particles like no other cordless vacuum.

Shark Vertex has upgraded its Duo Clean Nozzle, which now includes combs to prevent hair tangles.

Cheaper options such as the Tineco A11, Dyson V8, Dyson Micro, Dyson Omni Glide, and LG CordZero are available, but they do not offer the aforementioned features.

While Tineco products perform well on hard floors, their maneuverability may not be as responsive.

The Dyson Micro and Omni-Glide are the lightest options and are best suited for smaller homes where a large dirt capacity is not a priority.

Avoid selecting a product that lacks a soft roller, as it may compromise efficiency.

Models like the Miele Triflex and Dyson V7 did not perform well on hard floors due to their low-profile nozzles.

While these products may effectively clean small debris, they struggle with larger messes such as a pile of oatmeal.

In conclusion, when it comes to choosing the best cordless vacuum for your cleaning needs, there are plenty of top-notch options to consider. Whether you prioritize cleaning performance, battery life, or budget-friendly choices, the market has something for everyone. The Dyson V15 Detect stands out as the best overall, with its advanced features and exceptional cleaning abilities. For those with hard floors, the Shark Vertex Pro Cordless is a top choice, while the Tineco A11 offers great value for money. On the other hand, the Dyson Omni-Glide impresses with its maneuverability, making it perfect for tight spaces. If you have long hair, the DreameTech T30 is a fantastic option, and for those on a budget, the Moosoo K17 won't disappoint. Lastly, the Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra takes the crown as the best robot vacuum. So, say goodbye to cords and hello to convenience with the best cordless vacuums of 2023!