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8 Best Lightweight Vacuums in 2024

As you’re on the hunt for the perfect cleaning companion, you’re likely looking for a vacuum that’s not only effective but also easy to maneuver. You’re not alone – many of us struggle with bulky vacuums that leave us feeling exhausted before we’ve even finished cleaning. That’s where lightweight vacuums come in. From cordless wonders to bagless canisters, there are plenty of options to choose from. But which ones are truly worth your time and money? Let’s take a closer look at the top contenders, and discover which features make them stand out from the rest.

LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you’re looking for a lightweight vacuum that can provide up to 50 minutes of uninterrupted cleaning on a single charge, the LEVOIT Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice.

You’ll appreciate its cordless stick design, which makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces.

With 180 Watts of power, this vacuum packs a punch, and its 2 power levels let you adjust the suction to suit your cleaning needs.

Plus, the LED lights illuminate hidden dirt and debris, making it easy to get the job done.

Weighing in at just 6.17 Pounds, this vacuum is a breeze to use, and its wall mount storage feature keeps it neatly tucked away when not in use.

Best For: People who want a lightweight, portable, and powerful cordless vacuum for cleaning hard floors, carpets, pet hair, and low-pile carpets.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces
  • 2 power levels and LED lights provide adjustable suction and visibility for efficient cleaning
  • Wall mount storage feature keeps the vacuum neatly tucked away when not in use

Cons:

  • Small dustbin capacity requires frequent emptying
  • Limited battery life on Turbo mode
  • Noise level of 77.5 dB may be too loud for some users

Shark VACMOP Pro Cordless Hard Floor Vacuum Mop

Shark VACMOP Pro Cordless Hard Floor Vacuum Mop  Get it now on Amazon.com

With its lightweight design and cordless convenience, the Shark VACMOP Pro is the perfect choice for anyone seeking a hassle-free cleaning experience for their hard floors.

You’ll appreciate the powerful suction and spray mopping features, which come with four disposable pads and a 12-oz bottle of multi-surface hard floor cleaner.

Weighing only 3.34 pounds, this vacuum mop is easy to maneuver, and its rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides up to 12 minutes of runtime.

Plus, with no filter or maintenance required, you can focus on cleaning without any hassle.

With its impressive 4.4-star rating and thousands of customer reviews, it’s clear that the Shark VACMOP Pro is a top choice for efficient and convenient hard floor cleaning.

Best For: Hard floor owners who want a convenient, lightweight, and easy-to-use cleaning solution for daily cleaning and quick cleanups.

Pros:

  • Easy to use and lightweight, making it perfect for daily cleaning and quick cleanups
  • Cordless design and rechargeable lithium-ion battery provide hassle-free cleaning experience
  • Powerful suction and spray mopping features pick up dirt and debris efficiently

Cons:

  • No logical solution for reusable pads, which can be inconvenient and wasteful
  • Loose pieces may fall out during use, making it difficult to maneuver
  • Wet pads can be difficult to maneuver, making cleaning more challenging

Shark UltraCyclone Pro Cordless Handheld Vacuum, with XL Dust Cup, Green

Shark UltraCyclone Pro Cordless Handheld Vacuum, with XL Dust Cup, Green  Get it now on Amazon.com

Weighing in at just 2.2 pounds, the Shark UltraCyclone Pro Cordless Handheld Vacuum is an ideal choice for those seeking a lightweight yet powerful cleaning companion.

You’ll appreciate its portability and ease of use, making it perfect for quick cleanups and spot cleaning.

This handheld vacuum packs a punch with its two cyclonic air streams, delivering powerful suction and long-lasting motor life.

The included lithium-ion battery provides lasting power, and the no-mess CleanTouch dirt ejector makes emptying the XL dust cup a breeze.

With a crevice tool and scrubbing brush, you’ll be able to tackle hard-to-reach areas and upholstery with ease.

Best For: Those who want a lightweight and powerful handheld vacuum for quick cleanups and spot cleaning.

Pros:

  • Portable and lightweight design makes it easy to use and maneuver
  • Powerful suction and long-lasting motor life due to the two cyclonic air streams
  • Comes with a crevice tool and scrubbing brush for tackling hard-to-reach areas and upholstery

Cons:

  • Some users have reported issues with durability and battery life
  • Lack of accessories may be a drawback for some users
  • Noise level of 80 dB may be a concern for those who prefer quieter operation

Dyson Outsize+ Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Dyson Outsize+ Cordless Vacuum Cleaner  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Dyson Outsize+ Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is an ideal choice for pet owners or those who need to thoroughly clean large areas.

Its impressive 120-minute runtime and powerful suction make it engineered for whole-home, deep cleaning.

The power-saving trigger helps maximize battery life, and the intelligent Dyson DLS technology optimizes suction and runtime based on floor type.

The vacuum also features laser illumination, which reveals microscopic dust on hard floors.

Additionally, it comes with two advanced cleaner heads: Laser Slim Fluffy and Extra Wide Digital Motorbar XL.

Weighing only 7.98 pounds, this cordless vacuum is easy to maneuver.

The 25% wider cleaner head and 150% bigger bin make cleaning more efficient.

Best For: Pet owners and those who need to thoroughly clean large areas will appreciate the Dyson Outsize+ Cordless Vacuum Cleaner’s impressive features and capabilities.

Pros:

  • The vacuum’s powerful suction and advanced features make it ideal for deep cleaning large areas and picking up pet hair and allergens.
  • The long-lasting battery life and easy-to-empty bin make it convenient to use.
  • The laser illumination feature is a useful tool for revealing microscopic dust on hard floors.

Cons:

  • Some users may find the vacuum to be heavy, although the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.
  • The stick can be too long for tight spaces, making it difficult to maneuver in certain areas.
  • The XL motorbar may be less effective on hard floors with debris.

Tineco Pure ONE S11 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Tineco Pure ONE S11 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner  Get it now on Amazon.com

If you prioritize strong suction power and advanced technology in a lightweight vacuum, the Tineco Pure ONE S11 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice, boasting 130W of suction and iLoop Smart Sensor technology that auto-adjusts power to tackle hidden dust and debris.

You’ll appreciate its cordless design, weighing only 7.1 pounds, making it easy to maneuver around furniture and up stairs.

The onboard color LED display and connected Tineco App allow you to monitor your cleaning progress, battery levels, and suction performance.

With up to 40 minutes of runtime, you can clean your hard floors, carpets, and furniture without interruptions.

Plus, the included wall-mounted dock keeps your vacuum charged and organized.

Best For: Those who prioritize strong suction power and advanced technology in a lightweight vacuum for cleaning hard floors, carpets, and furniture.

Pros:

  • Very little maintenance required
  • Auto speed control and charging station for convenience
  • Plunger to remove dirt and debris easily

Cons:

  • Not as strong suction in auto mode
  • Not good at picking up big items or heavy particles
  • No additional features mentioned

BISSELL Zing Lightweight, Bagless Canister Vacuum, 2156A,Black/Citrus Lime

BISSELL Zing Lightweight, Bagless Canister Vacuum, 2156A,Black/Citrus Lime  Get it now on Amazon.com

For homeowners seeking a reliable and portable cleaning solution, the BISSELL Zing Lightweight, Bagless Canister Vacuum, 2156A, is an excellent choice, offering a powerful and convenient cleaning experience.

Weighing only 10.2 pounds and measuring 14L x 11W x 12H inches, this vacuum is easy to maneuver and store.

With its 9-amp motor and 120-volt power source, you’ll enjoy strong suction power and efficient cleaning. The 15-foot cord allows for great cleaning reach, and the integrated carrying handle makes it easy to move around.

You’ll appreciate the washable and reusable filters, as well as the easy-empty dirt cup that keeps dirt off your hands.

With its 3-stage filtration system and multi-surface brush, you’ll be able to tackle hard floors and carpets with ease.

Best For: Homeowners seeking a reliable and portable cleaning solution, particularly those with hard floors and carpets.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to maneuver and store
  • Powerful suction power and efficient cleaning with its 9-amp motor and 120-volt power source
  • Convenient features such as washable and reusable filters, easy-empty dirt cup, and 15-foot cord with automatic rewind

Cons:

  • Some reviewers mentioned issues with the long tube popping apart while vacuuming
  • Limited 1-year warranty may not provide long-term protection for the product
  • No additional features or attachments beyond the multi-surface brush and crevice tool

BISSELL CleanView Rewind Upright Bagless Vacuum

BISSELL CleanView Rewind Upright Bagless Vacuum  Get it now on Amazon.com

Weighing in at just 16.27 pounds, the BISSELL CleanView Rewind Upright Bagless Vacuum is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight yet powerful cleaning solution.

With its compact design, you’ll appreciate its portability and ease of maneuverability.

This vacuum boasts an impressive array of features, including Automatic Cord Rewind, Active Extension Wand, and OnePass Technology, which facilitates efficient cleaning on carpets.

Additionally, its Scatter-Free Technology makes it suitable for hard floors.

You’ll also appreciate the washable filters, multi-level filtration system, and easy-to-empty dirt tank.

With a 4.5-star rating based on over 2,400 reviews, this vacuum is a popular choice among users, who praise its strong suction power, quiet operation, and durability.

Best For: Those who prioritize lightweight and portable cleaning solutions with strong suction power and efficient features for carpets and hard floors.

Pros:

  • Strong suction power for effective cleaning
  • Lightweight and portable for easy maneuverability
  • Quiet operation for minimal disturbance

Cons:

  • Small detachable canister may require frequent emptying
  • Cord length could be longer for more convenient use
  • Retractable cord may stop retracting over time

Kenmore Brushless Cordless Stick Vacuum

Kenmore Brushless Cordless Stick Vacuum  Get it now on Amazon.com

The Kenmore Brushless Cordless Stick Vacuum boasts an impressive 40-minute runtime and a 250W brushless motor, which delivers 17Kpa suction power in turbo mode, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a reliable and efficient cleaning experience.

The vacuum’s lightweight design, weighing less than 6 pounds, and detachable hand vac, weighing less than 3 pounds, make it easy to maneuver and clean hard-to-reach areas.

The extra-large dust cup and HEPA filter capture 99.97% of dust particles, pet dander, pollen, bacteria, and more, ensuring a thorough cleaning experience.

Additionally, the EasyReach wand flexes to clean underneath furniture with the push of a button, making it perfect for cleaning hard floors, carpet, and pet hair.

Best For: Those who prioritize a lightweight and efficient cleaning experience, particularly for hard floors, carpet, and pet hair.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to maneuver, making it perfect for cleaning hard-to-reach areas
  • Delivers strong suction power with its 250W brushless motor and 17Kpa suction power in turbo mode
  • Captures 99.97% of dust particles, pet dander, pollen, bacteria, and more with its extra-large dust cup and HEPA filter

Cons:

  • Battery life is relatively short, lasting only 40 minutes
  • Some users have reported issues with the battery losing charge quickly
  • Warranty and customer service have received negative feedback from some customers

Factors to Consider When Choosing Lightweight Vacuums

When you’re in the market for a lightweight vacuum, you’ll want to think carefully about what matters most to you.

You’ll need to ponder factors like the weight of the vacuum, how it’s powered, and how much noise it makes.

Weight Considerations

Considering a lightweight vacuum’s weight is essential, as it directly impacts your cleaning experience, from maneuverability and fatigue to portability and overall convenience.

When choosing a lightweight vacuum, you should aim for a weight under 7 pounds for easy maneuverability and reduced fatigue during extended cleaning sessions.

Additionally, look for vacuums with ergonomic designs and balanced weight distribution, which can reduce strain on your back and shoulders, making them suitable for users with mobility issues.

A vacuum’s weight also greatly impacts its portability.

If you’re looking for a vacuum for quick cleanups or travel, opt for models under 5 pounds.

Some lightweight vacuums come with detachable handheld units, offering added flexibility and reduced weight, making them perfect for cleaning tight spaces and upholstery.

However, be aware that extremely lightweight models might compromise on suction power.

You’ll need to weigh the trade-off between weight and suction power when making your decision.

Power Source Options

As you weigh your options for a lightweight vacuum, the power source becomes a crucial factor in determining the device’s overall performance, convenience, and usability.

Cordless vacuums, a popular choice for their lightweight design, typically run on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, offering 20 to 40 minutes of runtime. However, some models come with multiple batteries, allowing for extended cleaning sessions or minimizing downtime while waiting for a battery to recharge.

On the other hand, corded vacuums provide unlimited runtime but may be heavier due to the built-in power cord, which can also restrict movement.

Advanced battery technology, such as fast-charging capabilities, can minimize downtime and maximize cleaning efficiency.

When choosing a lightweight vacuum, consider the power source’s impact on the device’s overall weight, runtime, and usability. Will you prioritize the convenience of a cordless vacuum or the reliability of a corded one?

Your power source preference will greatly influence your cleaning experience, so you must carefully weigh your options. By doing so, you’ll find a lightweight vacuum that meets your specific needs and preferences.

Noise Level Concerns

You’ll want to weigh the noise level of your lightweight vacuum, since it can substantially impact your cleaning experience and environment.

A vacuum’s noise level is typically measured in decibels (dB), with lower levels indicating quieter operation. For daily use, you’ll likely want a vacuum with a noise level of 70 dB or lower.

Those above 80 dB may be too loud for comfortable use.

When choosing a lightweight vacuum, consider the noise level in relation to your specific cleaning needs and environment.

If you plan to use your vacuum daily or in noise-sensitive areas, a quieter operation may be preferred.

Some vacuum designs, like those for hard floors, may be naturally quieter due to their motor type.

On the other hand, upright vacuums may be louder due to their more powerful motors.

Additionally, higher suction power often results in a louder operation.

Suction Power Needs

When you’re selecting a lightweight vacuum, your suction power needs will depend on the type of flooring and level of dirt and debris you’re dealing with.

For hard floors, a suction power of around 10-15 kPa is sufficient. However, if you have carpets or pets, you may require higher suction power, up to 20-25 kPa, to effectively remove dirt and debris.

But be aware that higher suction power isn’t always necessary – it can push dirt around, making cleaning more difficult, and may increase energy consumption and noise levels.

The type of flooring and level of dirt will influence the required suction power. For example, high-pile carpets and heavily soiled areas need more powerful suction.

Some lightweight vacuums offer adjustable suction power, allowing you to customize the power to your specific cleaning needs.

When comparing vacuums, look for suction power measured in air watts (AW), which provides a more accurate representation of a vacuum’s cleaning ability than traditional measurements like amps or volts.

Filter Types and Quality

Your vacuum’s filter quality plays a crucial role in capturing dirt, dust, and allergens, making it essential to choose a lightweight vacuum with the right filter type for your cleaning needs.

When it comes to filter types, you’ll often come across HEPA filters, which boast a high filtration efficiency, capturing 99.97% of particles as small as 0.3 microns.

Pre-filters can also be a good option, as they capture larger debris and dust, extending the life of your HEPA filter and improving overall vacuum performance.

If you’re concerned about odors and gases, activated carbon filters might be the way to go. However, they may not capture small particles as effectively as HEPA filters.

When evaluating filter quality, look for the MERV rating, which measures a filter’s ability to capture particles of varying sizes. A higher rating indicates better filtration performance.

You may also want to examine washable filters, which can be a cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. However, they may not provide the same level of filtration as disposable filters.

Cordless or Corded Choice

After contemplating the filter type and quality, you’re likely wondering what kind of power source is best for your lightweight vacuum: cordless or corded?

This decision ultimately depends on your personal preferences, cleaning needs, and priorities.

Cordless vacuums offer greater convenience and portability, making them perfect for quick cleanups and spot cleaning. However, they may have limited runtime, requiring frequent recharging, with some models offering up to 40 minutes of runtime on a single charge.

On the other hand, corded vacuums provide consistent power and unlimited runtime, making them ideal for larger cleaning tasks and whole-home cleaning.

Although they can be heavier and more restrictive due to the cord, some corded models are surprisingly lightweight, weighing as little as 5 pounds.

It’s also important to weigh the pros and cons of each option, as cordless vacuums can be more expensive than corded ones, with some high-end models costing over $200, while corded vacuums can be found for under $50.

Additional Tool Preferences

You’ll want to weigh the additional tools that come with your lightweight vacuum, as they can greatly enhance its versatility and cleaning capabilities.

For instance, crevice tools are ideal for cleaning tight spaces, such as between couch cushions, stairs, and tight corners.

Upholstery brushes are useful for cleaning furniture, stairs, and car interiors, making them a great addition to handheld or stick vacuum purchases.

Dusting brushes, on the other hand, are perfect for dusting and cleaning delicate surfaces, such as ceiling fans, blinds, and furniture.

Extension wands can be used to reach high areas, such as ceiling fans and crown molding, making them a great addition to stick vacuum purchases.

Additionally, LED lights can be useful for illuminating dark or hard-to-reach areas, such as under furniture or in closets.

Consider what tools are included with your lightweight vacuum and how they’ll fit your cleaning needs.

Storage and Portability

When evaluating lightweight vacuums, prioritize the storage and portability factors that’ll make a real difference in your cleaning routine.

You’ll want a vacuum that’s easy to store in small spaces, such as closets or shelves, and can be easily moved around the house. Look for compact designs with detachable handheld units, which will make storage a breeze.

Cordless vacuums with rechargeable batteries offer more portability than their corded counterparts, giving you the freedom to clean without being tethered to a power outlet.

The weight of the vacuum is also vital, as it directly impacts its portability. Opt for a vacuum that weighs under 10 pounds, making it easy to carry up and down stairs or to different rooms.

Some lightweight vacuums come with wall-mounted docking stations, which keep the vacuum charged and organized while taking up minimal storage space. Don’t forget to take into account the vacuum’s dimensions, including its height, width, and length, when evaluating its portability and storage needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Lightweight Vacuum on High-Pile Carpets?

You’re wondering if a lightweight vacuum can handle high-pile carpets. Honestly, it’s not the best combo. Lightweight vacuums are designed for hard floors and low-pile carpets, not thick, plush high-pile ones that require more suction power.

Are Cordless Vacuums Less Powerful Than Corded Ones?

“Are you sacrificing power for convenience? Cordless vacuums have come a long way, but you’ll typically find they’re less powerful than their corded counterparts, with some exceptions, of course, depending on the specific model and brand you choose.”

How Often Should I Clean My Vacuum’s Filter?

You should clean your vacuum’s filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage. Check it monthly, and wash or replace it if it’s dirty or clogged, as a dirty filter reduces suction power and efficiency.

Do Lightweight Vacuums Have Smaller Dust Cups?

You’re wondering if lightweight vacuums have smaller dust cups, and the answer is yes, they often do, which means you’ll need to empty them more frequently, but that’s a small trade-off for their portability.

Can I Use a Handheld Vacuum for Large Areas?

You’re trying to tackle a giant with a toy sword, wondering if a handheld vacuum can conquer large areas. Unfortunately, it’s not designed for that; it’s better suited for quick cleanups and spotless touch-ups, leaving large areas to more powerful vacuums.

Conclusion

As you drift effortlessly from room to room, your lightweight vacuum gliding by your side, you’ll feel like you’re dancing through dust bunnies and dirt devils.

With the right tool in hand, cleaning becomes a breeze, not a chore.

Say goodbye to cumbersome cords and hello to the freedom to clean wherever, whenever.

With these top picks, you’ll be sweeping your way to a spotless sanctuary in no time!