The best handheld vacuum cleaners are versatile tools that empower you to maintain a clean home. Ours lives in the kitchen, always ready for a quick tidy. It's portable, so we use it for our bookshelves, window sills, and car. It can reach places regular vacuum cleaners can't, and some of the best ones are so powerful you can use them exclusively if you live in a small apartment.
Corded or cordless is the big decision here. Corded models tend to have more power; you don't have to worry about battery life. However, they also require power outlets, which are less useful than cordless cleaners. While cordless cleaners are usually less powerful, they're becoming more efficient and liberating. They can go anywhere without being constrained by power outlets.
If your home has hairy pets, you can use a handheld with a pet hair attachment or attachments; they can help you get shredded hair out of upholstery really fast. If you're disabled or just don't want your arms like a gorilla from a heavy handheld, it's important to compare the weight of different models. Knowing the weight and mobility features can give you confidence when buying.
The best handheld vacuums were tested in kitchens, cars, and all around our homes to see how well they cope with everyday cleaning and unexpected disasters. Please note that our testing conditions may not be exactly like yours. If you want to see if a vacuum cleaner or robot vacuum is a better match for your home, check out our guides on the best vacuum and robot vacuums.
The quick list
Below, we’ve provided an overview of the important details you need to know about each product immediately so you can buy quickly if you're in a hurry. If something catches your eye, use the links to delve deeper into the analysis provided for each product further down the page.
The best handheld vacuum overall
Shark Dual Cyclone Pet Pro is a lightweight and powerful vacuum with three accessories, but it only lasts 10 minutes and is quite noisy. Great for spot cleaning.
The best budget handheld vacuum
Black+Decker Dustbuster Cordless Wet & Dry Vacuum is compact, powerful, and budget-friendly. It struggles with viscous liquids and pet hair, however.
The best handheld vacuum for workshops
The DeWalt 20V Cordless Dry Hand Vacuum is powerful but best suited for workshops. It's affordable and comes with useful accessories.
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The best handheld vacuum attachment
The Dyson Gen5detect Absolute is a top cordless, handheld vacuum with advanced suction power, HEPA filtration, dust detection, long runtime, and large dustbin capacity.
The best handheld vacuum for small homes
Eufy HomeVac H11 handheld vacuum is perfect for small spaces with its sleek, compact design, easy usage, and pet hair cleaning capabilities.
The best handheld vacuums we recommend
Why you can trust Top Ten Reviews Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Our team has thoroughly reviewed the following products featured in this buyer's guide. We strive to provide comprehensive and unbiased rankings based on our hands-on testing and expert research. Our evaluations consider top-rated brands and essential features to assist you in making informed purchasing decisions at the best value.
The best handheld vacuum overall
The Shark Dual Cyclone Pet Pro has many strings attached to its bow. The first thing you'll notice is that it's powerful. Our expert tested it at home and in the car, and it picked up dust, debris, pet hair, and even Cheerios. Despite being so lightweight, our reviewer had no trouble swinging it around in the backseat of a car or couch without getting a dead arm. If you don't like fiddly tools, this is a great choice.
Our reviewer just had to charge the battery, insert an accessory, and turn it on; it has three accessories: a pet power brush with a regular brush roll, a crevice tool, and a scrubbing brush. With the CleanTouch dirt ejector, you won't even have to touch the dustbin (unless you want to wash the washable filter).
On a full charge, the Shark Dual Cyclone Pet Pro only lasts 10 minutes. I also liked that it was noisy, producing 70 dB (like a washing machine). The single LED indicator made it hard to figure out when the vacuum was fully charged. The 0.45-quart dustbin is pretty spacious. The dual-airstream design also gives it a lot of suction—just watch how fast it takes up Cheerios.
Read more: Shark Dual Cyclone Pet Pro review
The best budget handheld vacuum
The Black+Decker Dustbuster Cordless Wet & Dry vacuum handles wet and dry spills on a budget. Our reviewer, Joanne, says it's compact and powerful and easily cleans up sauce, milk, cereal, oats, and flour. It only costs $39.99, which is a small price to pay for clean surfaces. The model has 14,000Pa suction power and a bunch of accessories for carpets, hard floors, and kitchens.
There's a plastic wet-dry deflector and foam insert to keep crumbs and liquid from getting to the electrical parts, and Joanne found the design practical, lightweight, and easy to handle. The 2-oz dustbin is transparent blue, so you can see what's happening. The crevice tool is easy to reach into narrow spaces. You need to keep pressing the trigger with your thumb while using it.
Joanne found that the battery only lasted 10 minutes per charge, so you'll have to hold it for a while. The handle is also comfortable.
That brings us to the model's limitations (in addition to the limited runtime). Joanne found that the vacuum struggled with viscous liquids like honey and ketchup and couldn't remove pet hair. Also, it was messy to wash out, so you should feel comfortable getting your hands dirty.
Read more: Black+Decker Dustbuster Cordless Wet & Dry Vacuum review
The best handheld vacuum for workshops
Our resident expert tested the DeWalt 20V Cordless Dry Hand Vacuum, but it's not our top pick for typical house cleaning. It's too heavy for carpet and has no brush roll attachment, so it's best for workshops and commercial settings. The vacuum comes with accessories like a belt hook and light.
With a 5AH battery, 20V of power, and six accessories, the model is pretty cheap, considering it's designed for workshops. Overall, the design is bulky but manageable, weighing 3.3 lbs. The battery lasts about 18.5 minutes, which is nice, but it may run out if you're cleaning a large workshop mess.
Of the six accessories, our reviewer liked the crevice tool, round brush, floor nozzle, and gulper brush the most. He also liked the vacuum’s wide-mouthed design and 46 CFM of suction, which, paired together, were extremely handy for sucking up a lot of debris, including pet hair, coffee grounds, turf grass, leaves, and cobwebs. You can use the extension tube like a stick vacuum as well.
It's a handy tool for a workshop but as noisy as a passing car (around 77 dB).
Read more: DeWalt 20V Cordless Dry Hand Vacuum review
The best handheld vacuum attachment
The Dyson Gen5detect Absolute is one of the best cordless vacuums on the market and a top handheld vacuum, thanks to its advanced suction power, HEPA filtration, and dust detection features. With its powerful technology, it's easy to pick up dirt, dust, and debris from carpets, hard floors, and upholstery.
There are lots of accessories, and it runs for 70 minutes. The extra-large dustbin allows you to clean more without having to empty it as often, and you won't run out of battery power.
Read more: Dyson Gen5detect review
The best handheld vacuum for small homes
If you live in a small apartment or home, you might want to consider the Eufy HomeVac H11 handheld vacuum. This vacuum is small and compact, so it's easy to store in a drawer or basket. Its sleek and stylish design also doesn't look out of place in your house.
It's also easy to use, even for those who don't have the patience for a multi-part vacuum. It has a 2-in-1 brush and crevice tool to get between sofa cushions and baseboards. If you have pets, the crevice tool is especially handy for removing pet hair, which is a real problem.
Although it can't handle larger debris, it works well with dust and pet hair. Although the 13-minute battery life may be a limitation for some, it's more than enough for quick clean-ups. Plus, the vacuum won't disturb your neighbors with its 35dB noise level.
Read more: eufy HomeVac H11 review
More handheld vacuums to consider
Listed below are the handheld vacuums we think are great, but haven't tried yet. While we strive to review everything we feature in our buyers' guides, some of them still feature rankings based on our team's considerable experience and research.
We couldn't test all of the units in this guide personally, so instead, we chose top-rated brands and used our knowledge of the best features to help you make the right choice for your home.
Messes happen. The BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Hand Vacuum is a great solution. It has a 14V lithium-ion battery, triple-level filtration, and pet-specific attachments, making it perfect for cleaning up pet messes. It's lightweight and easy to empty, so it's a pet parent's must-have.
With Hypervelocity suction and a compact 1.6 lb design, Shark Cyclone PET offers powerful, lightweight cleaning. The portable vacuum has USB charging, an XL dust cup, a washable filter, a lithium-ion battery, a PetExtract Hair Tool, and an 8" Crevice Tool so you can clean on the go.
The Dyson Humdinger is a powerful, lightweight handheld vacuum designed for easy maneuverability and accessing hard-to-reach areas. The Hair Screw tool picks up long and pet hair fast. With 25 minutes of run time, 3 accessories, and advanced filtration, it's a durable cleaning solution with a 2-year warranty.
With a sleek design and an included 2-in-1 Crevice Tool and dusting Brush, the BISSELL AeroSlim Hand Vacuum is perfect for home, office, or car use. It's cordless and powerful, and its lithium-ion battery lasts up to 12 minutes. It charges conveniently via USB.
Tineco's GO Mini handheld vacuum cleaner is a lightweight, cordless device for quick cleaning. With a 20-minute battery life and whisper-quiet performance, it's perfect for spot cleaning car interiors and small spaces, and it has a MAX mode for boosted suction.
How to choose the best handheld vacuum for you
There are several things to remember when choosing a handheld vacuum. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Cleaning Needs and Surface Types
When choosing a handheld vacuum, consider your cleaning needs and the surfaces you need to clean. Handheld vacuums with multiple attachments might be good for upholstery, car interiors, and quick pickups. It's best to pick a vacuum with specialized features and attachments if you remove pet hair or clean delicate surfaces.
Power and Battery Life
You'll want to look at how powerful and long the handheld vacuum lasts because these factors directly impact cleaning efficiency and convenience. A high-power vacuum with strong suction is great for deep cleaning, while a long battery life allows you to clean for longer without recharging. For cordless models, check the charging time and replacement batteries.
Dust Capacity and Filtration
Check the dust capacity and filtration system to ensure the handheld vacuum effectively contains dust and debris. If you want to clean more extensively, get a vacuum with a larger dust cup or bag. Advanced filtration systems like HEPA filters are good for allergy sufferers because they trap allergens and fine particles.
Portability and Ergonomics
You should consider the handheld vacuum's portability and ergonomics to ensure it's comfortable to use. Lightweight, compact models are easy to store and maneuver. The ergonomic handle and intuitive controls also make cleaning sessions more comfortable.
Handheld vacuum FAQs
How do handheld vacuums work?
Handheld vacuums use a motor-driven suction mechanism, effective filtration, and easy-to-use designs, making them perfect for small messes and hard-to-reach places.
Suction Mechanism
A handheld vacuum's suction mechanism draws dirt and debris in through an intake nozzle with an airflow motor. The motor's power can vary, affecting its suction strength. Vacuums with a higher wattage usually pick up bigger particles and pet hair better.
Filtration System
It passes through a filtration system once it's sucked in. Most handheld vacuums use foam or HEPA filters to trap dust and allergens, ensuring cleaner air is expelled. Allergy sufferers will love this since it reduces airborne particles.
Dustbin or Bag
The collected debris is stored in a dustbin or bag, which can be easily emptied when full. Modern handheld vacuums have bagless designs, so you don't need to change bags. Because of this convenience, they're easier to maintain.
Attachments and Accessories
There are many attachments for handheld vacuums, making them more versatile. Tools like crevice nozzles, brushes, and motorized heads can clean upholstered furniture, stubborn dirt, and tight spaces. Depending on what you're cleaning, you can customize your cleaning approach.
Power Source
You can use handheld vacuums with batteries or an electrical connection. Cordless models offer greater mobility, so they're good for quick clean-ups, while corded versions provide constant power.
How much does a handheld vacuum cost?
Handheld vacuums can cost anywhere from $30 to $300, but most users find satisfactory options in the $50 to $150 range.
For those on a tight budget, basic handheld vacuums can be found for as low as $30 to $50. These models typically offer essential features and are perfect for light cleaning tasks, like picking up crumbs.
Most mid-range handheld vacuum cleaners cost between $70 and $150 and have better suction, longer battery life, and washable filters. These models are ideal for users needing a more versatile vacuum for cleaning upholstery or car interiors.
A high-end handheld vacuum costs between $150 and $300. It usually has advanced features like smart sensors, better filtration systems, and longer battery life. It can be used for tasks like pet hair removal or deep cleaning that require a robust cleaning solution.
Remember to factor in possible extra costs, like replacement filters or batteries, which can add up over time.
How long does a handheld vacuum last?
A handheld vacuum typically lasts 1 to 3 years. However, factors like battery life, build quality, maintenance, and warranty can affect its longevity.
A cordless handheld vacuum's battery life is a big deal. Lithium-ion batteries typically last 10 to 30 minutes on a full charge, but their capacity to hold a charge decreases as they age, so their runtimes often go down. Using it regularly and charging it right can prolong battery life, but eventually, most batteries will need replacing or will stop working.
A vacuum's build quality also plays a big role in its longevity. Higher-end models are usually built with more durable materials and include features like replaceable batteries and strong motors that make them last longer. A budget model could wear out faster, especially if you use it often.
Cleaning the filters, emptying the dustbin, and making sure the motor is free of clogs can extend the life of your handheld vacuum. If you don't perform these maintenance tasks, you'll get less suction and wear on the motor.
Most manufacturers offer warranties of 1 to 5 years, which can give you peace of mind. A longer warranty usually means the manufacturer is confident in the vacuum's durability.
When is the best time to buy a handheld vacuum?
The best time to get a handheld vacuum deal is during major holiday sales, seasonal promotions, new model releases, and clearance events.
Many home appliances, including handheld vacuums, are on sale during major shopping holidays. The best times to buy are during events like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Labor Day, when retailers usually offer exclusive deals.
Many retailers have seasonal sales in spring and fall. Spring cleaning typically prompts discounts on cleaning appliances, while fall may see clearance sales as stores prepare for the holidays.
It's not uncommon for manufacturers to cut prices on older models when they release new ones. If you're willing to buy an older model, you can get a high-quality handheld vacuum for a great price. Researching the release cycles of brands will help you time your purchase.
Clearance sales are common at the end of a season or when a store is closing out older stock. Check local retailers or online marketplaces for clearance events.
How we tested the best handheld vacuums for this guide
Our team has thoroughly reviewed the products featured in our buyer's guides. We are committed to providing comprehensive and unbiased rankings based on our hands-on testing and expert research. Our evaluations consider top-rated brands and essential features to assist you in making informed purchasing decisions at the best value.
Here is how we test the best handheld vacuums featured in this guide:
Key specs: We evaluate each vacuum's suction power, filtration, bin capacity, battery life, and weight.
Cost and Value: We carefully weigh the price of each handheld vacuum against its features, performance, and durability to determine its overall value to consumers.
First Impressions & Setup: We evaluate the unboxing experience, packaging, and initial presentation, as well as the clarity and simplicity of the setup process.
Design: We consider the type of vacuum, controls and settings, construction, aesthetics, and additional features that enhance functionality.
Performance: We test cleaning efficiency, suction power, battery life, versatility, and noise level during operation.
Care & Maintenance: We assess the ease of cleaning, durability, and the manufacturer's care guidelines and maintenance recommendations.
Meet the team
James Holland has spent the last three years testing, reviewing, and writing about all sorts of tech, from computers and related peripherals to smart home devices, robot vacuums, and kitchen appliances. His work has been published in Top Ten Reviews, TechRadar, T3.com, and Android Police. When he’s not working, he plays music or at least pretends to. He also likes to eat questionable fusion-type foods.
Joanne Lewsley is a freelance health and lifestyle writer. She's also a Top Ten Reviews Customer Advisor for vacuums, air purifiers, and cleaning devices. She evaluates the quality of home gadgets in these areas, putting them through their paces in a natural home environment for reviews, updating buying guides, and speaking to industry experts on the latest product advances.
Caroline, Deputy Editor at Top Ten Reviews, has been testing products for the home for years, trialing them in her one-bedroom basement apartment. She's passionate about helping people choose the best appliances, tech, and anything else to make their lives easier, cheaper, or more enjoyable.