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10 Best Handheld Vacuums 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark | Pet Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | LED Headlights | Removable Handheld Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Pet Multi-Tool Included | 40min Runtime | For Carpet & Hard Floors | Grey | IX141

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,153
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
11318 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is impressive, especially on high mode, effectively picking up dirt, lint, and pet hair from carpets and mats.
Battery Life
Battery life is better than expected, even on high suction mode, making it suitable for multiple cleaning tasks before needing a recharge.
Weight
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for quick clean-ups and reaching tight spaces.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum is easy to use with simple attachments and a straightforward dust bin emptying process.
Noise Level
The vacuum is fairly quiet, which is less disturbing for pets compared to other models.

The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum (model IX141) is designed to tackle pet hair and household messes efficiently, making it a solid choice for pet owners and those needing a lightweight vacuum for quick clean-ups. One of its standout features is the hypervelocity suction, which provides robust cleaning performance on both carpets and hard floors. With a respectable battery life of up to 40 minutes, you can cover a good amount of space before needing to recharge. The removable hand vacuum adds versatility, allowing you to reach above-floor areas easily, and the LED headlights help spot hidden dirt in darker corners.

Weighing just under 7 pounds, this vacuum is quite portable, especially when compared to traditional vacuums, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. The XL dust cup is another plus, offering a decent capacity of 0.34 quarts, and its CleanTouch Dirt Ejector feature simplifies disposal without mess.

However, there are a few drawbacks worth considering. The noise level is on the higher side at 80 dB, which might be bothersome in quieter settings. Additionally, while the vacuum is generally well-reviewed, some users have mentioned that it may not be powerful enough for larger homes or heavy-duty cleaning tasks. The 240-minute charging time may also be a bit long for those who prefer quicker recharges.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,153
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
11318 reviews

Suction Power
The suction power is impressive, especially on high mode, effectively picking up dirt, lint, and pet hair from carpets and mats.
Battery Life
Battery life is better than expected, even on high suction mode, making it suitable for multiple cleaning tasks before needing a recharge.
Weight
It's lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it convenient for quick clean-ups and reaching tight spaces.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum is easy to use with simple attachments and a straightforward dust bin emptying process.
Noise Level
The vacuum is fairly quiet, which is less disturbing for pets compared to other models.
#2

Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum, 185AW, 3 Power Modes, Up to 60 Minutes,² Deep Cleans Hard Floors and Carpets, Detangles pet Hair, Converts to Handheld

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
2058 reviews

Suction Power
Exceptional suction power surpasses traditional upright vacuums.
Battery Life
The vacuum's cordless feature and long run time are standout benefits.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to use, even for those with back problems.
Dust Capacity
Emptying the dust canister could be improved, but it doesn't detract from overall performance.
Attachments and Accessories
Versatile functionality with multiple power levels and tools for different cleaning needs.

The Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum is an impressive choice for anyone looking for a powerful handheld vacuum. One of its standout features is its strong suction power, which is said to be 60% greater than previous models. This makes it effective for deep cleaning various floor types, including carpets and hard surfaces. Users can switch between three power modes: Auto for everyday tasks, Eco for longer battery life, and Boost for those tough spots that need extra power.

Battery life is also a highlight, offering up to 60 minutes of run time, which is quite generous for a cordless vacuum. However, keep in mind that using higher power settings will reduce this time. The LCD screen provides helpful information like power mode and remaining battery life, making it user-friendly. In terms of weight, at 6.6 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for a vacuum of its capabilities, making it easier to carry around the house. The dust capacity of 0.2 gallons is decent but may require frequent emptying for larger cleaning jobs.

This vacuum also excels in versatility; it converts easily into a handheld model, which is perfect for cleaning cars, stairs, and upholstery. Its included attachments, such as the Hair Screw Tool designed to tackle pet hair, further enhance its cleaning capabilities. The advanced HEPA filtration system is another plus, trapping 99.99% of particles for cleaner air expulsion. However, the noise level is rated at 70 dB, which could be a bit loud for some users, especially in quieter settings. The price point might be higher compared to other handheld vacuums, which could be a consideration for budget-conscious shoppers. Additionally, while the battery life is impressive, those who use the Boost mode frequently may find themselves needing to recharge sooner. The Dyson V11 Origin is an excellent option for those who need a robust, versatile vacuum for comprehensive cleaning but be prepared for the investment it requires.

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
2058 reviews

Suction Power
Exceptional suction power surpasses traditional upright vacuums.
Battery Life
The vacuum's cordless feature and long run time are standout benefits.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to use, even for those with back problems.
Dust Capacity
Emptying the dust canister could be improved, but it doesn't detract from overall performance.
Attachments and Accessories
Versatile functionality with multiple power levels and tools for different cleaning needs.
#3

BISSELL Cleanview XR Pet 300W Cordless Vacuum with Removable Battery, 3797V

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Weight
Dust Capacity

Most important from
112766 reviews

Suction Power
Powerful suction that surprises with the amount of dirt it picks up, even after one use.
Weight
Super lightweight and easy to use with a very small footprint when stored away.
Dust Capacity
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.
Attachments and Accessories
The detachable features and bagless functionality add to its convenience and ease of use.
Filter Type
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.

The Bissell Cleanview XR Pet handheld vacuum is designed with pet owners in mind, offering notable power and convenience. With a 300W motor, it boasts 60% more power than its Shark counterpart, ensuring robust suction for deep cleaning tasks. The vacuum is particularly effective for picking up pet hair from various surfaces like upholstery, stairs, and cars, thanks to its specialized fur brush attachment. Weighing 5.9 pounds, it's reasonably lightweight, making it easier to maneuver around the house.

The removable 24V MAX lithium-ion battery supports up to 40 minutes of runtime, providing sufficient time for most cleaning jobs without needing a recharge. This is ideal for those who prefer the freedom of cordless operation. The dust capacity is 0.3 liters, which is on the smaller side and may require frequent emptying during extensive cleaning sessions. The vacuum includes several useful attachments such as a dusting brush, crevice tool, and a wall mount for convenient storage.

The foam filter is straightforward to maintain but may not be as efficient at trapping fine particles as HEPA filters. BISSELL’s initiative to support homeless pets through purchases can be a compelling factor for pet lovers. This vacuum is best suited for pet owners looking for a powerful, cordless cleaning solution for various surfaces.

Rating
9.4
Suction Power
Weight
Dust Capacity

Most important from
112766 reviews

Suction Power
Powerful suction that surprises with the amount of dirt it picks up, even after one use.
Weight
Super lightweight and easy to use with a very small footprint when stored away.
Dust Capacity
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.
Attachments and Accessories
The detachable features and bagless functionality add to its convenience and ease of use.
Filter Type
The dirt cup is fairly decent in size and the filter is easy to wash and replace.

Buying Guide for the Best Handheld Vacuums

Choosing the right handheld vacuum can make cleaning quicker and more convenient, especially for small areas, cars, upholstery, or quick spills. Your main goal is to find a model that easily matches your daily tasks without adding too much weight or complexity. Before you buy, think about where and how often you’ll use the handheld vacuum, such as for pet hair, car interiors, or just light crumbs around the house. With the right features, it should save you time and hassle, making cleaning almost effortless.
WeightWeight refers to how heavy the handheld vacuum is. This is important because you’ll often be holding the vacuum with one hand and possibly reaching into tight or overhead spaces. Lighter vacuums are easier to handle, especially for longer cleaning sessions or for people with wrist or shoulder concerns. Most handheld vacuums range from about 1 to 5 pounds. If you plan to use the vacuum often or for longer stretches, a lighter model is usually more comfortable. If it will mainly stay in one area or be used briefly at a time, a slightly heavier model with more features might be manageable.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long you can use a cordless handheld vacuum before it needs to be recharged. This is crucial if you don’t want your cleaning to be interrupted or if you have larger spaces or multiple tasks in one go. Battery life for handheld vacuums typically ranges from 10 to 45 minutes. Shorter battery life is fine for quick spot-cleaning, but if you need to clean a car, stairs, or several rooms at once, look for a model with longer runtime. Base your choice on the size of the spaces and the frequency of your cleaning tasks.
Suction PowerSuction power describes how forcefully the vacuum can pick up dirt and debris. This is important for ensuring effective cleaning, especially for pet hair, larger crumbs, or cleaning in car crevices. Handheld vacuums show suction in different ways, like air watts or volts. Generally, a lower power is suitable for light dust and basic jobs, while stronger suction is better for tough messes or thick materials like carpet and upholstery. Think about your main cleaning needs: more power is better for challenging messes, but may use the battery faster.
Dustbin CapacityDustbin capacity means how much dirt and debris the vacuum can hold before it needs to be emptied. This matters because frequent emptying can interrupt your cleaning. Dustbins are usually quite small in handheld vacuums, ranging from about 0.2 to 0.7 liters. For quick pick-ups or spot cleaning, a smaller bin is sufficient. If you plan to handle larger messes or do extended cleaning sessions, a bigger bin will require less frequent emptying.
AttachmentsAttachments are extra tools that come with the vacuum, like crevice tools, brushes, or pet hair tools. These help you clean specific surfaces such as upholstery, car seats, or tight corners. More attachments add versatility but can make storage more complicated. If you mostly need the vacuum for simple tasks, you might not need many extras. If you have pets, cars, or varied surfaces, look for a model with specialized attachments matching your cleaning habits.
Filtration SystemThe filtration system refers to how well the vacuum traps dust and allergens. Good filtration is important if you have allergies, pets, or young children, as it can keep fine dust and allergens from escaping back into the air. Filtration ranges from basic single-layer filters to HEPA filters, which capture much smaller particles. For basic, everyday use, a standard filter might be fine. If you are concerned about air quality or have allergies, look for advanced or HEPA filtration.
Charging TimeCharging time tells you how long it takes to fully recharge the vacuum’s battery. Fast charging is useful if you use the vacuum often or forget to charge it ahead of time. Charging times for handheld vacuums can vary from under an hour to several hours. If you use the vacuum frequently or for bigger jobs, a shorter charging time is more convenient. For occasional use, a longer charge time might not be an issue.

FAQ