The Best Stick Vacuums

Thanks to its smaller motor, a stick vacuum is thinner and far more lightweight than its upright and canister cousins, making it one of the most useful everyday cleaning tools. Stick vacuums, as the name implies, also have a longer reach than handheld models, allowing them to get under furniture with ease and reach cobwebs in corners. We gathered 15 of the most popular stick vacuums and put them through rigorous hands-on tests, then narrowed our list down to the top eight performers.

Our favorite was the Tineco Pure One S70 Stick Vacuum. This vacuum is easy to maneuver, features excellent suction, has a long battery life, and comes with a vertical docking station that charges the vacuum’s battery and houses all its attachments. Seven other models also performed exceptionally well and may be a better match depending on your needs and budget.

Read on to learn how to shop for the best stick vacuum, as well as the pros and cons of the quality models listed below.

1. BEST OVERALL: Tineco Pure One S70 Stick Vacuum
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Bissell FeatherWeight Lightweight Stick Vacuum
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3. UPGRADE PICK: Samsung Bespoke AI Jet Lite Stick Vacuum
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4. BEST FOR SMALL SPACES: Levoit LVAC-200 Cordless Stick Vacuum
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5. BEST FOR PET HAIR: Shark Anti-Allergen Pet Power Cordless Stick Vacuum
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6. BEST LED LIGHTS: Dyson V15 Detect Cordless Vacuum
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7. BEST FOR ALLERGIES: Shark PowerDetect Cordless Stick Vacuum
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Stick Vacuums Comparison

Our Top Picks

For those set on a lightweight appliance to achieve clean floors, check out the reviews of quality models just ahead, all based on our hands-on testing. Then read on for more info on important criteria anyone should consider when shopping for the best stick vacuum.

Our Ratings: Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Use 4.7/5; Value 5/5

For those seeking a versatile vacuum that can handle a range of tasks, from removing crumbs to suctioning dog hair and everything in between, the Tineco Pure One S70 is our top recommendation. Featuring an upgraded 3DSense Pro Cleaning System, this Tineco vacuum utilizes sensors to detect the level of dust and debris, then automatically adjusts its suction to match the cleaning power required. It also features EdgeSense technology, which boosts suction near walls for cleaner edges. Plus, it has a green light on the vacuum head that illuminates hard-to-see dust and hair, ensuring you never miss a spot.

Assembling the Tineco Pure One S70 took us less than 5 minutes, including setting up its vertical storage stand. We loved that this stand not only stored the vacuum but also charged it and housed the included attachments, keeping them within easy reach. The vacuum’s battery is advertised to last up to 65 minutes when using the ZeroTangle brush to vacuum the floor or 95 minutes when using the crevice attachment. We vacuumed our entire 2,000+ square feet home, which took about 30 minutes, and the battery never died.

During suction tests, the Tineco performed exceptionally well, picking up regular dust, larger pieces of dirt and leaves, and pet hair from our hardwood floors, area rugs, and tile floors. We found only one drawback—there are only two vacuum settings, auto and eco, so it’s not possible to manually boost suction when needed.

What our tester says: “Out of all the vacuums I tested, this one maneuvered the best, gliding across my floors. And since it has a swivel head, it was easy to vacuum right along furniture and walls. The suction was top-notch, leaving my floors free of crumbs, dirt, and pet hair.” —Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Tineco stick vacuum at Amazon.

Our Ratings: Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Use 4/5; Value 4.5/5

Those in the market for a stick vacuum that’s easy to tote, store, and maneuver in small spaces may find this Bissell FeatherWeight Lightweight Stick Vacuum a great choice. It’s well-suited for quick, convenient cleanups, and it’s corded, so it’s always ready to work as long as an outlet is nearby. Although this ultralightweight vacuum doesn’t have a powerhead, its broad suction head covers ample ground. 

This Bissell corded stick vacuum cleaner converts to a handheld unit for use with the suction head, which is ideal for cleaning carpeted stairs and upholstery. An included crevice tool helps the user reach into tight spots. This vacuum weighs in at just 2.6 pounds, so toting it around is a breeze, and its bagless dustbin is easy to empty as well.

This lightweight vacuum performed remarkably well in testing. Its 9.5-inch-wide cleaning path made it easy to maneuver in tight corners and under furniture. It easily picked up dirt and debris, and we liked how easy it was to remove the stick and use it as a hand vac. Its stick attachment was surprisingly sturdy and did not require screws for assembly. However, the unit struggled to pick up dirt on higher-pile carpets and is definitely designed for light cleaning.

Get the Bissell stick vacuum at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, or Walmart.

Our Ratings: Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 4.5/5; Ease of Use 5/5; Value 4.7/5

The Samsung Bespoke AI Jet Lite Stick Vacuum offers exceptional cleaning power, along with some notable upgrades, including AI cleaning technology and a self-emptying base station. Its AI Sense Mode 2.0 detects the floor type and level of debris, adjusting its suction for the best cleaning performance. It also has four other suction modes users can toggle between, including Min, Mid, Max, and Jet. An LCD display shows run time, battery percentage, and alerts users if there’s an issue with the vacuum or if maintenance is required. 

Hands-down, our favorite feature of the Samsung Bespoke AI Jet Lite was the All-in-One Clean Station. Simply place your vacuum on the station after you’re done vacuuming, and it will self-empty the dustbin into a bag located inside the station and charge the battery. We were also pleased with its cleaning performance. We used it for a month, vacuuming our home multiple times, and found the AI mode to function as intended. Whether we were vacuuming our area rugs or hard floors, it suctioned every crumb. 

The AI Jet Lite comes with three dustbags and three attachments (an anti-tangle pet tool, an extension crevice tool, and a combination tool). However, there’s no onboard storage for the attachments. Another drawback was the lack of a headlight to illuminate hidden dust, which we’ve come to expect from higher-end vacuums. With that said, the AI Jet Lite still performed phenomenally well, and the clean station made it one of our favorites. 

What our tester says: “The All-In-One clean station makes the Samsung Bespoke AI Jet Lite a real standout. I loved that every time I returned to the station it self-emptied the dustbin and recharged. It also cleaned well and was easy to maneuver around furniture and up against baseboards.” —Katie Barton, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Samsung stick vacuum at Amazon, Wayfair, or Best Buy.

Our Ratings: Performance 4.4/5; Maneuverability 4.3/5; Ease of Use 4.5/5; Value 4.7/5

If you need a stick vacuum that delivers ample cleaning power without breaking the bank, the Levoit LVAC-200 is certainly worth a look. With a battery that can last up to 30 minutes with the vacuum head or 50 minutes with attachments, it’s a great pick for small- and medium-sized homes. It features three vacuum speed settings (Eco, Medium, and Turbo) and comes with two attachments. 

This lightweight vacuum cleaner is easy to push around, although the head feels a little more clunky than that of higher-end models. It had no problem picking up the regular dirt and debris that gets dragged into our home each day, and the battery lasted long enough to give our downstairs (about 1,000 square feet) a quick tidy when using the medium suction setting. Two features that set this vacuum apart from other budget vacuums are the light on the vacuum head, which helps illuminate dirt, and its ability to stand freely without falling over, functioning similarly to a cordless upright vacuum​.

The LVAC-200 takes four to 5 hours to charge from zero to full battery life, so if you need to vacuum a large house in one go, this model probably isn’t for you. However, if you’re looking for a lightweight stick vacuum for a small space or for spot cleaning, it’s certainly a contender. 

Get the Levoit stick vacuum at Amazon or Best Buy.

Our Ratings: Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 4/5; Ease of Use 5/5; Value 4.3/5

To banish pet hair from carpeting and furniture, consider the Shark Pet Power stick vacuum. It features a self-cleaning brush roll with silicone fins that resist hair wrap. This Shark vacuum boasts a powerful lithium-ion battery that will run up to 50 minutes on a single charge. Hypervelocity-accelerated suction provides deep cleaning, and the powerhead features bright LED lights for navigating in low-light areas, such as behind furniture. 

Other features include an LED interface that makes it simple to switch the brush roll on or off while vacuuming. Anti-allergen seals keep airborne pollen and dander from recirculating, leaving the air in the room healthier and cleaner. The vacuum converts from stick to handheld for use with a handy crevice tool.

While testing this vacuum in our multipet household, we found it to be excellent at effectively picking up pet hairs. It’s a good suction vacuum, and the high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) Anti-Allergen Complete Seal technology was most impressive, capturing and trapping dust, allergens, and dander. The filters even effectively trap pet odors. This vacuum performed exceptionally well on hard and soft surfaces, but it is pretty heavy at just over 9 pounds—the heaviest stick vacuum we tested. We did experience arm fatigue after a while, especially after using it as a hand vac. 

Get the Shark Anti-Allergen stick vacuum at Amazon.

Our Ratings: Performance 5/5; Maneuverability 5/5; Ease of Use 4.5/5; Value 5/5

The brand name Dyson is synonymous with powerful vacuums, and the Dyson V15 Detect is no exception. It comes with two interchangeable vacuum heads—the Digital Motorbar cleaner head, which can automatically adapt its suction based on floor type and detangle hair from its roller brush as it vacuums, and the Fluffy Optic cleaner head, featuring an integrated green laser that reveals microscopic dust on hard floors. A wall-mount docking station and three other attachments are also included. These attachments can quickly turn the V15 into a handheld vac for cleaning upholstery, crevices, and other hard-to-reach areas.

This vacuum for hardwood and carpet​ offers three powerful suction modes, including Eco, Auto, and Boost. Eco delivered enough suction to suit our daily vacuuming needs, and Auto was perfect for deeper cleaning tasks, such as removing pet hair from our carpet. The Boost mode provided more suction than we needed and would result in the vacuum picking up our area rugs. 

The Dyson V15’s battery can last up to 60 minutes, depending on the vacuuming mode and floor type. We were able to vacuum our 2,500-square-foot home without depleting the battery, and appreciated that the LCD display indicated the remaining run time in minutes. We did have to empty the dustbin three to four times, though, so we wish that it had a bit more capacity. 

Get the Dyson stick vacuum at Amazon, Lowe’s, Walmart, Wayfair, or Dyson.

Our Ratings: Performance 4.5/5; Maneuverability 4.5/5; Ease of Use 4.5/5; Value 4.5/5

The Shark PowerDetect Clean Cordless Stick Vacuum features a washable foam filter, along with a HEPA post-motor filter, to trap dust and allergens. Its DuoClean Detect nozzle has two brush rolls and works on all floor types, in both forward and reverse directions, allowing it to capture more dust, hair, and debris. It uses PowerDetect technology to sense the level of dirt and floor type, automatically adjusting suction for enhanced cleaning performance. Two attachments—a duster crevice tool and a pet multi-tool—are included.

We first tested the Shark PowerDetect on a rug inside our entryway, which quickly accumulates dirt, tiny rocks, and pet hair. This vacuum had no problem suctioning it all up, and we appreciated that it worked in both forward and reverse modes, helping us dislodge stuck-on hair. The vacuum was also a winner when it came to cleaning edges and corners since it detects these areas and then boosts power to pull in debris. And vacuuming under furniture? A breeze, thanks to the vacuum’s wand that bends for easy maneuverability in tight spaces. 

While Shark states that the battery can last up to 70 minutes, this is only applicable when using the hand vac in Eco mode. Fortunately, the battery lasted long enough to vacuum our 2,000-square-foot home when we were using the auto suction mode. Our only qualm was the vacuum’s inability to stand freely. It doesn’t come with a docking station, so we had to lean it up against the wall when charging. 

Get the Shark PowerDetect stick vacuum at The Home Depot, Wayfair, or Best Buy.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Stick Vacuums

When looking through the market for our favorite stick vacuums, we set out to create a list of recommendations that covers as many characteristics as possible. Our top picks include options from leading brands such as Dyson and Shark, and some feature the latest technology, including LED headlights that reveal hidden dust and tangle-free roller brushes that tackle hair with ease. We also made sure to include budget-friendly options for those looking for a simple stick vacuum without the pricier technology. 

We tested each stick vacuum according to established rubrics, including dirt capacity, weight, portability, accessories, and cleaning performance, on hard surfaces and carpets. We first determined how much assembly was required for each model and looked into the ease of storing its cords and accessories. Next, we vacuumed several types of flooring, including tile, laminate, hardwoods, area rugs, and carpet. We used the various additions to determine how easy they were to attach and how well they functioned. Based on these rubrics, we rated each vacuum on a scale of 1 to 5 to determine its score. 

To keep our recommendations fresh, we continually test popular stick vacuums, showcasing the top performers on our list. Past models we’ve recommended (and still think are worthy contenders) include the Tineco Pure One S11 Cordless Stick Vacuum (a former “best overall” pick), the Dyson V12 Detect Slim (replaced by the Dyson V15 Detect), and the Dirt Devil Power Express Lite Corded Stick Vacuum (a budget stick vacuum​). Three of our older recommendations are no longer in production or frequently out of stock at most retailers. In our latest round of testing, we also reviewed the Ryobi One+ HP 18V Advanced Stick Vacuum Kit. While we were impressed with its powerful suction and useful attachments, its top-heavy design scored it a bit lower than other vacuums on our list. 

What to Consider When Choosing a Stick Vacuum 

Unlike traditional canister-type or upright vacuums, stick vacuums have relatively small collection bins that can fill up rather quickly with dirt, dust, and debris. Before buying a stick vacuum, shoppers will want to consider factors such as how often they’ll clean the floors; the size of the living area to be covered; and how much dust, dirt, and pet hair they’ll typically need to banish.

Vacuuming Schedule

Stick vacuums are well-suited to light and frequent use, such as maintaining minimal carpet in a small apartment every few days. For folks with bigger spaces who vacuum only once a week and must remove ground-in dirt, a more powerful type of vacuum, such as an upright or canister model would be a better option. Users with hard floors throughout their homes may even want to consider a vacuum and mop combo, which can suction dirt and wash the floors in a single pass.

Size vs. Strength

Instead of a bulky bag or canister, stick vacuums feature a tube or cup that’s only about 4 inches in diameter to hold debris. Being so compact makes these models easy to store, which is a boon to anyone with limited supply-closet space. But their small motors simply can’t deliver the power of full-size vacuums. A few swipes of a stick vacuum can clean dirt and debris from hardwood, concrete, and tile, and a bristled rolling brush can help it handle low-traffic carpet with a low pile no higher than 0.25 inch. For users with a thick, shaggy carpet or floors soiled by a lot of heavy use, skip the stick—it just won’t have enough juice for optimal cleaning performance.

Cord vs. Cordless

A stick vacuum cleaner with a cord offers a steady, unending supply of power and ample suction. Cordless stick vacuums can go anywhere, but the suction level wanes as the battery life drains; typically, a cordless model may need a recharge after 20 minutes. Charging time depends on the battery power and ranges from around 1 to 4 hours to reach a full charge. Stick cordless vacuums are prized for their portability, which makes them ideal for vacuuming a patio carpet or a shed—areas in which running a long extension power cord likely would be required but is undesirable. 

Voltage 

When comparing cordless vacuum models, be sure to consider voltage: Higher voltage translates into a longer running time, and stick vacuums range from 12 to 40 volts (V). A 20V model can typically run for about 15 minutes on one charge; this is usually enough time to cover a space smaller than 1,000 square feet. The best cordless stick vacuums use a highly efficient lithium-ion battery, which will charge faster and last longer than nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries. Some cordless stick vacuums come with a second spare battery (or the ability to purchase one), which can double runtime. 

Note that higher battery voltage also relates to the ability to operate powerheads and mini powerheads. These features have a separate motor that spins the round brushes very quickly to get deep within the carpet pile. Using the powerheads demands a lot of juice and pulls more energy from the battery than suction-only modes.

Weight

In addition to being slimmer, stick vacuums are lighter in weight, which makes them less taxing to carry and maneuver. Although traditional upright and canister vacuums can weigh upward of 20 pounds, a good stick vacuum weighs approximately 3 to 7 pounds, ideal for carrying between floors or through the house. The configuration—a single stick—is also easier to grasp with one hand, whereas a canister vacuum requires holding the canister’s handle with one hand and the hose-and-wand portion with the other hand.

Functionality 

Consider any features that make a stick more convenient and easier to use. Some manufacturers offer models that will convert into a handheld vacuum simply by disconnecting the top portion’s shaft, where the motor is housed. This increases versatility, enabling the machine to work as a vacuum for stairs and do various types of cleaning, such as vacuuming furniture and car seats in handheld mode. The addition of accessories that fit the handheld version, such as a crevice tool and a dusting tool, adds even more functionality. 

Some stick vacuums also include handles that can be lowered to a horizontal position, eliminating the need for a wand attachment to reach under furniture. Additionally, stick vacuums with powerheads often have the ability to turn off the rotating brush head to vacuum hardwood floors or bare floors. While powerful roller brushes can scratch the finish on hardwood floors, some stick vacs have brushes with soft silicone bristles designed not to damage hardwood flooring.

Allergies

Those sensitive to dust, pet dander, and pollen may wish to check out stick vacuums with HEPA filters. These filters can remove up to 99 percent of airborne particulates larger than 0.3 microns. As a comparison, a micron is only 0.00003937 of an inch in length, so a HEPA filter will remove allergens invisible to the human eye. 

However, due to their high density, vacuums with a HEPA filter require more power to pull air through the filter. In these cases, a corded model may be a better option than a cordless vacuum, as it will remove the need to recharge frequently.

Noise

Stick vacuums emit about as much noise as traditional upright and canister vacuums, which are in the range of about 70 to 75 decibels (similar to a hair dryer or garbage disposal). Vacuums designed to be quieter can still emit approximately 68 decibels. Running a stick vacuum probably won’t damage hearing, but it could wake an infant in an adjacent room or keep family members from being able to hear a conversation or the television.

Pets

For many, a home isn’t a home without family members of the furry persuasion. But pets can shed fur and dander (dried skin flakes) that can trigger allergies and leave unsightly hair on carpets and upholstered furniture. A stick vacuum with a roller brush is optimal for getting up pet hair. Some models come with optional mini powerheads that attach to a handheld conversion, making them well-equipped to work as vacuums for pet hair.

FAQs

After reading about some of the best stick vacuums, some questions may linger. Below are answers to some of the most common questions about stick vacuums.

Q. Which cordless stick vacuum is best for pet hair?

Cordless stick vacuums are great for removing pet hair on a daily basis. In this lineup, the Shark stick vacuum comes in as the best-for-pets pick for its long runtime and anti-allergen seals to keep dander from recirculating.

Q. Are stick vacuums worth it?

For those living in small apartments, a stick vacuum can serve as the primary home vacuum. Those living in larger homes may want to consider a lightweight vacuum as a second vacuum that’s used mainly for quick, frequent cleaning.

Q. What is the best portable stick vacuum to buy?

Consider both size and weight when shopping for a portable stick vacuum. The Bissell stick vacuum, the budget pick in this lineup, weighs just 2.6 pounds, and the stick detaches for easy transport in a small car trunk or floorboard.

Q. What is the lifespan of a stick vacuum?

A stick vacuum can last anywhere from 2 to 7 years, depending on quality, usage, and maintenance.

Q. Are corded or cordless stick vacuums better?

Cordless stick vacuums are convenient and easier to maneuver than their corded counterparts. However, with a corded stick vacuum, users don’t have to worry about batteries dying mid-clean, making them ideal for those with large spaces. 

Q. How many watts is good for a stick vacuum?

Watts (W) measure the amount of power a device consumes. Most stick vacuums use between 100 and 500 watts, though some models exceed this range. Keep in mind that wattage doesn’t necessarily translate to suction power. Instead, air watts (AW) provide a better measure of cleaning performance.

Q. What is good suction for a stick vacuum?

A stick vacuum’s suction power is typically measured in air watts (AW). Most models we’ve tested fall in the 70 to 280 AW range. Generally, the higher the air wattage, the stronger the suction. However, we’ve found that models with ratings as low as 70 AW can still be great for most light daily cleaning tasks.

Q. How do I maintain my stick vacuum?

Maintain your stick vacuum by regularly emptying the bin and washing or replacing filters as needed. Keep the roller bar in tip-top shape by removing hair and other stuck-on debris before it becomes a tangled mess. 

Meet the Testers

Katie Barton is a writer and product tester with over ten years of experience in the field. She has tested dozens of vacuums and favors stick models, as they allow for quick and easy cleanup of her hardwood floors. 

Debbie Wolfe is a photographer, author, and freelance writer in various niches. She has contributed hundreds of home, garden, and crafting articles and DIY tutorials for leading media outlets and retailers. Her testing approach is straightforward and budget-minded. 

Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries.She tests a wide range of power tools as well as other home improvement, household, and lawn-and-garden products.

Additional research provided by Amy Lynch.

 

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