We researched the top cordless upright vacuums in the market and tested them to help you narrow your choices and make the best decision. Shark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle Upright Cordless Stick Vacuum took the top spot for our best overall after thorough testing.
A clean and well-maintained home is essential for our peace of mind and well-being. Vacuum cleaners play a significant role in making our cleaning routines efficient and hassle-free. With various types of vacuum cleaners available, it’s essential to choose one that best fits our needs and preferences.
Our Best Cordless Upright Vacuum
Cordless upright vacuums promise a cleaning experience unlike any other since they combine unrestricted convenience with strong suction. They eliminate the need for cords and allow you to clean every corner of your home without switching outlets.
Additionally, their upright design takes up minimal storage space, making them appealing for homeowners seeking a clutter-free living environment.
Our Review Methodology
We personally test every product featured in our reviews. This is to provide accurate and tested recommendations. Read our Review Guidelines for a full understanding of how we test vacuum cleaners.
Since starting Vacuum Empire, we’ve personally tested over 40 models of vacuums which ensures reliable, unbiased recommendations. We measure cleaning ability across various surfaces and evaluate manoeuvrability in tight spaces, like navigating around a cluttered living room.
Our focus on providing honest reviews with a clear review criteria sets us apart from typical reviewers who never test any of their recommendations. We go one step further and also analyze other owner’s reviews to capture the ‘wisdom of the people’ to provide a more comprehensive review. For instance, we discovered that a popular model had battery issues after only a few months of use which would have otherwise been missed.
What Are The Best Cordless Stick Vacuums? The Top 5 Reviewed
Our team has dedicated long hours to researching and testing these cordless upright vacuum cleaners to find the best one. Let’s see how Shark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle Upright Cordless Stick Vacuum won us! Keep reading as we explore our top picks and guide you in selecting the perfect cordless upright vacuum for your home!
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This vacuum has 2-speed brush roll and XL dust cup capacity.
Our Experience – Why we liked it:
Our experience with the Shark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle Upright Cordless Stick Vacuum has been quite pleasant. We noticed that the vacuum is quite lightweight and portable, making it a breeze to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. Its 2-speed brushroll effectively picks up pet hair on various surfaces, like carpets and hard floors, making it a versatile cleaning tool.
One of the standout features is the XL dust cup capacity, which allows for extended cleaning sessions without the need to empty it frequently. When it’s finally time to empty the dust cup, the process is straightforward and mess-free.
However, it’s worth noting that the vacuum lacks a headlight, which would be useful when cleaning in dimly lit areas. Additionally, the charging time takes around 4 hours, which may be a little inconvenient for those who need quick recharging. While it works well on most surfaces, the vacuum may struggle with plush carpets or thick rugs.
Who should use it:
The Shark SV1106 Navigator Freestyle Upright Cordless Stick Vacuum is a perfect fit for pet owners who require a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver vacuum cleaner with extended cleaning capacity. It is also recommended for those valuing versatility, able to effectively clean both carpets and hard floors.
Pros
Lightweight and portable at 7.5 pounds
2-speed brushroll optimized for various floor types
XL dust cup capacity for extended cleaning
Cons
Lacks a headlight feature for low-light areas
Charging time takes 4 hours
May not work well on plush carpets or thick rugs
“I’ve had this vacuum for over a month and overall it does its job well. At times I use it just to pick up something on the floor and I end up running it over the carpet and hallway…and the amount of dirt it picks up is amazing (and a bit shocking). With two dogs this is a very good accessory to help deal with their fluff and dirt.”
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BISSELL Featherweight offers self-standing feature and two-way folding handle.
Our Experience – Why we liked it:
When we used the BISSELL Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum, we were immediately impressed by its lightweight design. We could easily navigate around furniture and clean without straining our wrists or arms. The cordless feature allowed us to move freely from room to room, without worrying about finding an outlet.
This vacuum comes with a 10.8V lithium-ion battery, which takes about 4.5 hours to charge and offers up to 20 minutes of cordless run time. Although the battery life might not be sufficient for a large cleaning spree, it was adequate for quick cleanups throughout the house. The two-way folding handle made it easy to clean under furniture and helped save space when storing the vacuum.
As we switched between different floor types, we appreciated the multi-surface brush roll that could be turned on or off. This made it easy to transition from vacuuming tiles to rugs without any fuss. The vacuum also converts into a handheld device, allowing us to clean upholstery and tight crevices effectively.
One downside we experienced was the slightly weaker suction compared to larger vacuums. However, it’s important to remember that this vacuum is designed for convenience and portability, not as a heavy-duty cleaner. Additionally, the washable filter requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
Who should use it:
The BISSELL Featherweight Cordless Stick Vacuum is perfect for those who prioritize convenience and portability in their cleaning routine, such as apartment dwellers or people with smaller homes.
Pros
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cordless with up to 20 minutes run time
Two-way folding handle for extended reach and compact storage
Cons
May have weaker suction compared to larger vacuums
Battery life might not be sufficient for larger cleaning tasks
Washable filter requires regular maintenance
“Absolutely love this little cordless vacuum. It is so easy to use for quick clean up after the kids track some dirt in or the dog does his back scratchen roller over in the livingroom during the shedding season. It was one of the cheaper one when it came to price but it works like any good brand name one. Give it a try and I think you’ll like it.”
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Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet Elite features superior suction, self0standing feature, and XL dirt cup.
Our Experience – Why we liked it:
The first thing that impressed us about the Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet Elite was the superior suction power. Thanks to its high-performance brushless motor, we experienced 50% more suction compared to other vacuums we’ve tried.
It effortlessly picked up dirt, pet hair, and debris from our carpets, and the 35-minute runtime was more than sufficient to clean multiple rooms. The four-speed power control was a lifesaver, allowing us to adjust the suction as needed.
But what really won us over was the thoughtful design. The XL dirt cup was large enough to tackle our sizable living space without needing constant emptying. At less than 10 lbs, this vacuum was incredibly easy to maneuver, even on stairs.
The self-standing feature gave us the freedom to move furniture or pick up toys without having to lay the vacuum down. To top it all off, the 15 Cyclone Technology trapped 99.4% of dirt and dust particles, making our home feel remarkably clean.
Who should use it:
The Hoover ONEPWR Evolve Pet Elite is highly recommended for pet owners and those living in larger homes who seek a powerful yet lightweight vacuum.
Pros
Exceptional suction power makes cleaning carpets a breeze.
Long 35-minute runtime covers multiple rooms on a single charge.
Ultra-lightweight and self-standing for easy maneuverability and convenience.
Cons
XL dirt cup, while spacious, might be bulky for small storage spaces.
Four-speed power control could be confusing for some users.
Only compatible with Hoover ONEPWR battery system, limiting flexibility.
“I was very impressed and I like that the battery is charged separately from the vac. The light was a big plus for me too. But, most of all, all other cordless vac have the motor up at the top of the handle. Why????? It gets heavy even for guys. This one is perfect. Dirt cup was easy to clean also and should be emptied after every use.”
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syvio Cordless Vacuum Cleaner Upright has telescopic rod and 4 cyclone layer filter.
Our Experience – Why we liked it:
The Syvio Cordless Upright Vacuum Cleaner’s powerful suction was impressive for daily cleaning. We easily eliminated dirt, debris, and pet hair from our floors. The vacuum is lightweight, which made it convenient for cleaning, and we took advantage of its freestanding feature when we needed to pause for a call.
The vacuum cleaner offers three-speed levels, with 15-40 minutes runtime depending on the suction power used. We found the 7*2200mAh battery sufficient for cleaning an average-sized house on a single charge. However, it took around 5 hours to fully charge the battery, which might be a concern for some users.
With its 6-in-1 versatility, we had no problem cleaning various areas in our house. The V-shaped floor brush worked well on hardwood floors and tiles, while the crevice brush helped us reach corners and windowsills. The hairbrush made our job easier when cleaning sofas, curtains, and desks.
The vacuum features a 5-layer efficiency filtration system that captures 99.99% of ultra-fine dust. However, we found that the HEPA filter is not washable, and frequent cleaning or replacement is needed to maintain optimal filtration performance.
Who should use it:
The Syvio Cordless Upright Vacuum Cleaner is ideal for busy homeowners in need of a versatile, lightweight solution for daily cleaning tasks across multiple surfaces, including floors, furniture, and hard-to-reach areas.
Pros
Powerful suction with 22,000 pa max and 250W motor
Lightweight at 3.1 lbs and freestanding
Adjustable suction levels with 15-40 minutes runtime
Cons
Takes 5 hours to fully charge
HEPA filter is not washable
Battery life might not suffice for extensive cleaning
“I use it almost daily for a quick clean up. For the price I paid for it: it’s totally worth it. From all the tools it came with too, makes it so easy to clean. I love how it comes apart and I’m able to clean it well. Definitely recommend.”
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Shark Vertex Pro offers DuoClean PowerFins and IQ display.
Our Experience – Why we liked it:
When we first used the Shark Vertex Pro Cordless Vacuum, we immediately noticed the impressive suction power it offered with its DuoClean PowerFins technology. This, combined with its self-cleaning brushroll, easily picked up pet hair and kept our floors free from hair wrap.
One thing that stood out for us was the vacuum’s relatively lightweight design (12.4 pounds), making it easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. Despite being on the heavier side compared to other cordless vacuums, the 60-minute runtime and removable battery add convenience when tackling our entire home.
Powered Lift-Away versatility and the included tools, such as a crevice tool, pet multi-tool, and an anti-allergen dusting brush, made above-floor cleaning simpler than ever. The IQ display provided real-time readouts on runtime and performance, which was helpful as we tackled different tasks around the house.
Although the Shark Vertex Pro was perfect for pet owners, it did lack a blower attachment, which would have been a handy addition. Additionally, the vacuum struggled to pick up larger debris on some surfaces, so keep that in mind if your household often encounters these types of messes.
Who should use it:
The Shark Vertex Pro Cordless Vacuum is best suited for pet owners and those who require an agile, high-suction cleaning tool for both floors and above-floor areas like furniture.
Pros
Powerful suction with DuoClean PowerFins technology
Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Up to 1 hour of runtime with removable battery
Cons
A bit on the heavier side compared to other cordless vacuums
No blower attachment included
May struggle with larger debris on some surfaces
“If you’re looking for a great all-around cordless vacuum, this is the clear winner! You can also take this thing apart in nearly every way, making replacements easy. AND you can easily go between vacuuming the floor, to using the hose to get a shelf you forgot, to using the long handle–all seamlessly.”
Buying Guide – How To Pick the Best Cordless Upright Vacuums
This buying guide breaks down essential considerations to guide your decision, including power and performance, weight and maneuverability, dust bin capacity, filter system, available accessories and attachments, price, and warranty. These factors will help you choose a vacuum that fits your specific cleaning needs and lifestyle.
Power and Performance
When it comes to vacuum cleaners, power equates to performance. For a cordless upright vacuum, you should look for a model with a powerful motor. High suction power is a must if you want your vacuum to effectively pick up dust, dirt, and debris.
Another important factor under performance is the runtime. Since cordless vacuums run on batteries, you need to consider how long a vacuum can operate before needing a recharge. Look for a vacuum with a minimum runtime of 20 minutes on standard mode.
Weight and Maneuverability
One of the major advantages of cordless upright vacuums is their lightweight and easy maneuverability. As you’ll be carrying this device around your home, it should be easy to handle and light enough not to cause strain. Generally, a weight of 5 to 10 pounds is considered ideal.
Dust Bin Capacity
The dust bin capacity determines how often you’ll have to empty your vacuum. Larger capacities are convenient for cleaning large spaces or if you have pets that shed. If your house is smaller or less dirty, a smaller dust bin might work just fine.
Filter System
Look for a cordless upright vacuum with a high-quality filter system. A HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter is considered the best as it can trap 99.97% of particles, keeping your air clean and allergen-free.
Accessories and Attachments
A cordless upright vacuum with a variety of attachments can help you clean different areas and surfaces more effectively. Consider the following options:
- Crevice Tool: Great for cleaning tight spaces, like corners and baseboards.
- Upholstery Tool: Ideal for cleaning fabric-covered furniture and mattresses.
- Pet Hair Tool: Make quick work of removing pet hair from furniture and carpeting.
Price
Price is an essential factor for most buyers. While cordless upright vacuums can be pricier than their corded counterparts, there are affordable options available with impressive features. Remember, a high price tag doesn’t always guarantee superior performance.
Warranty
A warranty can provide peace of mind with your purchase. It assures you that the manufacturer stands behind their product. Look for a model with a warranty that covers at least one year, though some brands offer up to five years.
Remember, buying a vacuum is an investment in the cleanliness and health of your home. Take your time to assess your specific needs and consider these factors to find the best cordless upright vacuum for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered the most popular questions and answered them below.
Yes, many cordless upright vacuums possess strong suction power. With advancements in technology, manufacturers have been able to improve the motors and battery life, allowing for efficient and powerful suction. While cordless vacuums may not always match the performance of their corded counterparts, they offer remarkable convenience and practicality.
It is essential to consider the specific model and brand when evaluating suction power. Different vacuums will have varying levels of performance based on their design and technology. We recommend reading product reviews and comparing specifications to find a cordless upright vacuum with the suction power suited to your needs.
Absolutely! There are several budget-friendly cordless upright vacuum options available on the market. While higher-end models may offer more advanced features or longer battery life, many affordable options still deliver reliable performance and convenience.
To find a budget-friendly cordless upright vacuum, consider researching and comparing different models within your price range. Look for reviews from trusted sources that provide insights into the vacuum’s performance, battery life, and ease of use. Keep in mind that budget-friendly options may not always offer the same level of power or features as more expensive models, but they can still effectively clean your living space.
