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A handheld vacuum is often ideal to quickly clean up common messes. Though lightweight and compact, today’s options are powerful enough to perform many of the same functions as upright, canister, or robot models—at a fraction of the cost. To help you find the right model, we tested eight popular handheld vacs, tackling everyday cleanup tasks, including commonly spilled foods, tracked-in dirt and grass, and pesky pet hair.
We like the Black+Decker Dustbuster AdvancedClean+ for its powerful pickup abilities and significant runtime, but this isn’t the only great option we tried. Check out all of our in-depth reviews below, and then see which features and functions you’ll want to consider when shopping for the best handheld vacuum.
- BEST OVERALL: Black+Decker HHVK515J00FF Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Dirt Devil Scorpion Quick Flip Corded Hand Vacuum
↓ Jump to Review - BEST NOZZLE: Black+Decker CHV1410L Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR PET OWNERS: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum
↓ Jump to Review - BEST VERSATILITY: Proscenic P11 Lite Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
↓ Jump to Review
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested | 8 |
| Time spent testing | 36 hours |
| Tests performed | 6 |
| Price range | $35 to $230 |
Our Top Picks
The lineup below narrows the field to some of the top handheld vacuums by type and size from some of the best-known brands in the business. All these models were put through their paces by our testers and found to offer ample suction and otherwise fit the bill in their respective categories.
Best Overall
Black+Decker HHVK515J00FF Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Performance 5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Filter: Washable filter and prefilter
- Volts/amps: 20 volts (V)
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
What We Like
- 20V battery provides plenty of power
- 30 to 35 minutes of runtime
- Extendable crevice tool is always on board
What We Don’t Like
- 5-hour initial battery charge time
- No brush or specific pet hair attachments
With its powerful rechargeable battery, the Black+Decker 20V Dustbuster is one of the strongest cordless handheld vacuum models with 35 air watts (AW) of suction. That, coupled with a large 750-milliliter dustbin, makes this handheld vacuum ideal for cleaning up larger messes quickly. In our tests, emptying the dustbin with a simple push of a button located at the end of the device was virtually effortless.
A well-designed crevice tool proved great for sucking up a lot of debris in tight places, and we appreciated the convenience of going cordless when taking this out to the car. Although there’s a lack of extra attachments, we didn’t miss them, and we found this lightweight vacuum to be powerful and easy to use.
Runtime is pretty considerable at about 30 minutes, and a battery indicator shows how much charge is remaining. With its two speeds, it’s suitable for cleaning different types of surfaces.
Get the Black+Decker HHVK515J00FF handheld vacuum at Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 3/5; Performance 4.8/5; Value 4.5/5
Product Specs
- Filter: Washable filter
- Volts/amps: 7 amps (A)
- Weight: 3.8 pounds
What We Like
- Onboard fold-out crevice tool
- Lightweight, narrow design can fit in small spaces
- Constant power with no charging downtime
- Very affordable compared to other options on this list
What We Don’t Like
- Crevice tool requires firm insertion
- Strong “kick” potentially off-putting to some users
For those who don’t mind the limits of a power cord, this handheld vacuum is an excellent affordable option. It boasts a powerful 7A motor that is capable of picking up substantial dry messes, such as small stones and stubborn sand. It comes with convenient attachments, including a brush, a 2.5-foot hose, and a crevice tool that conveniently flips into place from the top of the vacuum when needed.
While this onboard accessory is one less thing to keep track of, the crevice tool presented a potential problem in testing. Since it must be firmly inserted into the vacuum’s spout, we wondered if the device would be rendered useless if it cracked or got stuck. We also didn’t find the included brush accessory to be very useful in picking up large amounts of hair and dust.
A long 16-foot power cord is great for vacuuming stairways or a car’s interior, while a removable rinsable filter is easy to clean. At 3.8 pounds, this corded handheld vacuum was easy to maneuver. Suction power in terms of air watts is not provided by the manufacturer, but our testing proved very little could escape this mighty vac’s clutches.
Get the Dirt Devil handheld vacuum at Amazon or Chewy.
Best Nozzle
Black+Decker CHV1410L Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Filter: Washable filter and dirt bowl
- Volts/amps: 16V
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
What We Like
- Rotating nozzle tackles messes from almost any angle
- Vertical charging hub offers single-handed docking
- Onboard crevice tool and flip-down brush
What We Don’t Like
- Air watts are relatively low
- No additional attachments included
A small vacuum with outstanding performance, this 3.5-pound unit uses cyclonic action to spin dust and debris away from the filter to maintain strong suction throughout a vacuuming session. Thanks to a 180-degree rotating nozzle with an extendable crevice tool and flip-up brush, the vacuum grasps grit even in hard-to-reach areas.
The 16V battery charges in 4 hours and holds its charge for up to 18 months in storage. Since the dirt canister is translucent, it’s easy to monitor progress and see when it’s time to empty. During testing, we enjoyed the portability and grab-and-go access of its upright charger. But with only 15.2 air watts, its strength was picking up stray dirt and crumbs, not heavy messes.
Get the Black+Decker handheld vacuum at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best for Pet Owners
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Cordless Hand Vacuum
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4/5; Value 4/5
Product Specs
- Filter: 3-layer filtration
- Volts/amps: 14V
- Weight: 3 pounds
What We Like
- Motorized pet brush helps lift dirt and hair
- Lightweight and portable to go almost anywhere
- Large 700-milliliter capacity holds a lot of debris
What We Don’t Like
- Initial battery charge time is 8 hours
- Emptying the dustbin requires filter removal
Thanks to a unique motorized brush built into the mouth, this small handheld vacuum is a worthwhile weapon in the battle against pet hair. In testing, the spinning brush really did the trick, pulling fur loose from fabric and carpeting so the vacuum could suck it up. We found it also picked up plenty of dust and dander, too, without us having to break out the big upright vacuum.
Three separate filters prevent dirt and dander from getting blown back into the room, while a 14V lithium-ion battery provides the power needed to turn the brush and remove the fur. In addition to the brush attachment, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser also includes crevice and upholstery attachments. And when the vacuum is full, a clear dust cup allows the user to see when it’s time to empty.We tested this handheld pet vacuum in a house filled with dogs and were fairly happy with its ability to scoop up our pooches’ hair as well as the grass, dirt, and who-knows-what-else they dragged in. Though excellent on hardwood floors, carpet, and furniture, the device was defeated by our vehicle’s nearly decade-old embedded dog hair in the trunk area. However, it did a super job of collecting swirls of lint and other detritus from the back of the car seats.
Get the Bissell handheld vacuum at Amazon, Target, or Belk.
Best Versatility
Proscenic P11 Lite Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.5/5; Performance 4.5/5; Value 5/5
Product Specs
- Filter: 5-layer filtration
- Volts/amps: 22V
- Weight: 2.9 pounds (main body with battery attached)
What We Like
- Great combination of features at a decent price
- Telescoping pole accommodates many types of use
- 2 power modes for more efficient use
- Ample runtime of 35 minutes or more on Eco mode
What We Don’t Like
- Charger does not indicate when battery is full
- Extended use as a handheld may cause minor strain
The Proscenic P11 Lite offers the same convenience of a handheld vacuum with a little bit more oomph—all at a decent price. Though it costs more than most regular handhelds, we think it’s a bargain, especially when compared to similar cordless vacuums. This versatile model easily converts from a handheld to a stick vacuum, with its telescoping pole extending from 17.9 to 26 inches for a customizable reach. The included attachments (a dust brush, a crevice tool, and a brush roll) can all be used with or without the pole.
We used the Proscenic on hardwood floors, plush carpet, upholstery, and other dusty household surfaces. It scooped up our test items—flour, rice, and cereal—quickly and easily on various surfaces and with different attachments. We did find that sizable amounts of larger debris, like cereal, can clog the opening that connects an attachment to the dustbin, but it’s an easy fix. We just removed the attachment and cleared the opening with our hands.
We also found that, unlike designated handheld vacuums, using the Proscenic as a handheld for longer than 10 minutes can strain hands and forearms. This is likely because the balance of weight is on one side of the vacuum, rather than evenly distributed.
Even with those minor drawbacks, there was still more to like about this portable vacuum. We appreciated its timer display and its impressive runtime. When it was fully charged, we were able to use it for 35 minutes on Eco mode and 5 minutes on Max mode, which is even better than its advertised estimate of about 35 minutes. For the price, its battery power and versatility are hard to beat.
Get the Proscenic handheld vacuum at Amazon or Proscenic.
ALSO TESTED
In addition to the products listed above, we also tested the following three models. While the top two are decent options, they just fall short of being called the best. The last model did not meet our standards.
- We liked the versatility of the Makita XLC02R1B 18V LXT Cordless Vacuum Kit, which included a stick attachment, allowing us to use it as an upright and handheld. However, given its high price point, we expected it to perform better. When we used the stick attachment, it performed best only when we pushed, not pushed and pulled.
- Though we appreciated the extended reach and its ability to pick up pet hair quite well, the Black+Decker BDH2020FL Handheld Vacuum failed to fully capture all stubborn dust from picture frames, door frames, and light fixtures.
We also tried out the VacLife Handheld Cordless Car Vacuum (VL188-N) and found its performance underwhelming compared to the other options.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Chose and Tested the Best Handheld Vacuums
Before we began testing, we chose handheld vacuum cleaners based on several factors. We looked at well-known brands and user reviews, but we also took into account potential uses, needs, and budgets. Someone in a large home with children or pets will likely have different pickup needs than someone who lives in a lightly trafficked apartment.
Once we had top models in various price categories and with various features, we put these handheld vacuums through their paces. We used them to suck up everyday messes including spilled flour (simulating dust), dry oatmeal, rice, and cereal. We tested them to see how they would reach under furniture, between couch cushions, and on top of door frames and ceiling fans. We also brought them out to a well-worn vehicle and tried to dislodge dog hair, small rocks, grass, and dirt.
We looked for helpful accessories, comfortable portability, and good value. Many of the vacs we tested came with handy rinsable filters, quick-release dustbins, and good battery life. Though diminutive size was a consideration for portability, smaller wasn’t always better.
What to Consider When Choosing a Handheld Vacuum
When shopping for the best vacuums, whether they’re handheld, shop, or upright, most people look for powerful suction. While that is an important feature to consider, there are others to take into account, such as size and weight, power source, and type. Read on to find out how and why these factors matter when shopping for a handheld vacuum.
Type
Handheld vacuums come in several types: standard, canister, and wet/dry vacuums. Standard models are small enough to hold in one hand, making them easy to grab for cleaning up a spill or tidying up a small space, such as a car’s interior.
Handheld canister vacuums offer greater capacity—more than a quart—and more suction power. They consist of a box that houses the motor and a hose that connects to the attachments. Most come with a shoulder strap that allows the user to carry the vacuum over a shoulder while using one hand to operate the hose. They’re basically like a handheld shop vac.
While most handheld vacuum cleaners are rated for dry material only, there are some wet/dry models that can suck up liquids as well as solids, making them ideal for cleaning up spills in a pinch. They may be standard or canister-style.
Corded vs. Cordless
A corded model will provide consistent suction power throughout a long vacuuming session, but the cord will limit mobility. All else being equal, corded models tend to be more affordable than cordless ones.
Handheld cordless vacuum cleaners rely on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Though more portable than corded units, they may run out of power in the middle of a long cleaning session. Some models display either the battery level or the exact amount of runtime left so you can keep tabs on the charge. If you’re planning to use a vacuum throughout the house and to clean patio furniture or car upholstery, a rechargeable handheld vacuum will be convenient.
Size and Weight
A handheld vacuum should be light enough to operate while holding in one hand. Most handheld vacuums weigh around 3 or 4 pounds, with mini handheld vacuums weighing as little as 2 pounds, and handheld canister vacs can tip the scales at as much as 5 pounds.
Small sizes ranging between 15 and 20 inches long let the operator maneuver easily with one hand. Larger, more powerful corded models feature shoulder straps for carrying over the shoulder during use.
Suction Power
The suction of corded and cordless handheld vacuum cleaners is directly related to the amount of power they have. Cordless models use batteries that can range between 14V and 40V, with the latter providing the most suction power. A handheld vacuum’s suction is measured in air watts. Most upright vacuum cleaners have an AW rating of around 100, while the best handhelds have at least 15 AW.
While air watts are a good measure of determining a vacuum’s effectiveness, not all vacuum cleaners advertise air watt ratings. In the absence of an air watt rating, battery output for cordless models and amps for corded counterparts provide a good indication of power. A cordless handheld vacuum cleaner generally requires at least a 15V battery for adequate suction, while a corded model should offer at least 5 amps of power.
Charging and Runtime
The batteries on cordless handheld vacuums have a limited runtime and can take hours to recharge. While runtime varies depending on the model and battery size, expect to get between 15 and 20 minutes of runtime from a cordless handheld vacuum cleaner. However, if a vacuum offers a maximum and minimum or eco speed, it may run longer than 15 to 20 minutes. Vacuum cleaner batteries can take anywhere from 1 to 6 hours to charge. Most of the options we tested fell in the 2- to 3-hour range.
Filter and Dustbin
Like full-size vacuums, handheld units contain a filter that prevents dust in the vacuum from becoming airborne. Some manufacturers offer scented filters to leave carpets and upholstery smelling fresh. Filters are either removable and rinsable, or they must be changed regularly; since pricing for replacements varies, those on a budget may wish to look into the cost associated with each model.
Handheld vacuums collect dirt in either canisters or bags. Canister models are more popular because they tend to be easier to empty and clean—just snap and dump. The larger the dirt canister, the bulkier the vacuum, but it won’t need to be emptied as often. A clear canister shows at a glance when it requires emptying.
Additional Features
Handheld vacuums typically include a number of features designed to improve their functionality and make them easier to use and maintain.
- Adjustable speed: Some handheld vacuum cleaners offer more than one speed option. This allows for versatility, making the vacuum cleaner capable of cleaning areas that might be damaged by cleaning at a higher speed. For battery-operated models, it can also extend the runtime.
- Grip: Handheld vacuum cleaners are intended to be operated using one hand. As such, most have molded ergonomic grips for a firm, comfortable hold. Most also have the controls built into the grip, allowing the user to turn the vacuum cleaner on and off without employing a second hand.
- Accessories: Specialized accessories that can make a unit more useful include attachments designed to pick up pet hair and clean nooks and crannies of upholstery. A flexible hose that reaches into less-accessible areas may also be included.
- Convertible vacuum kits: Some vacuums include extension rods that enable converting the unit from a handheld to a floor vacuum.
FAQs
For further info about how to use a handheld vacuum or the lifespan of these devices, read on for answers to some commonly asked questions that will likely fill you in.
There are a variety of uses for a handheld vacuum. It can be ideal in places larger vacuum cleaners can’t go or fit, such as a car interior or a flight of carpeted steps. These portable vacuum cleaners are also convenient for quickly cleaning up messes, such as spilled cereal or sand tracked in from the beach.
With the power to lift debris from car floors, seats, and other nooks and crannies of a car, our best overall pick, the cordless Black+Decker HHVK515J00FF Dustbuster Handheld Vacuum, is also one of the best options for vacuuming a car’s interior.
Most handheld vacuums last about 3 years before they begin to lose their suctioning power; however, that lifespan can be extended by remembering to regularly empty the dustbin and clean (or replace) the filters.
Check with the vacuum’s user manual or reach out to the manufacturer directly. Some batteries and chargers have been designed so that the battery only uses power until it’s fully charged, meaning that you could leave the cordless vacuum plugged in. Some manufacturers also recommend draining the battery fully before recharging.
Meet the Testers
Beth Cranston is an editor, writer, and product tester who has vacuumed carpet, tile, and hardwood covered in crumbs, dirt, and fur for more than 10 years. She looks for reasonably priced vacuums that are easy to use and maintain.
Anne Holub is a Montana-based writer and first-time homeowner. With two dogs and a bunch of hardwood floors in her home, she knows how to put a vacuum through its paces. She’s tested handheld vacs, robot vacuums, mops, and more for BobVila.com, along with other household must-haves.
Additional research provided by Tony Carrick and Manasa Reddigari.
