cleaning & laundry

Best Handheld Vacuum

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Dean M
20th October, 2021 | 18 minute read

Want to find the top handheld vacuums on the market?

This article will look at the best products available in the UK and explore other relevant subjects such as the different types of handheld vacuums and how they work exactly.

Anyone considering purchasing a handheld vacuum will find the following guide useful.

Handheld vacuum

What is a Handheld Vacuum?

These vacuums are generally smaller versions of conventional hoovers. Handheld vacuums tend to be portable, more affordable, and better for reaching into difficult to reach areas.

White handheld vacuum

But that's not all...

Handheld vacuums are great for use in cars and places in a property that is not too close to a power socket. They're also easy to carry, versatile, and tend to be fairly powerful.

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How Does a Handheld Vacuum Work?

Here's how handheld vacuum cleaners can be used:

  • Charge up its batteries (if cordless, otherwise plug it in)
  • Put the batteries in the device
  • Commence vacuuming
  • Power off when finished
  • Empty the dust bin when necessary
  • Put away safely

Types of Handheld Vacuum

We'll now explore the various categories of handheld vacuum and look at how they differ as well as their pros & cons.

Cordless Handheld Vacuum

Put simply, these are battery-powered handheld vacuums, and thus no cord is needed to plug in for power. These vacuums tend to be a bit lighter than their corded counterparts. In addition, cordless handheld vacuums are generally smaller, easier to put away, better suited to work in awkward and hard to reach areas (e.g. in a car), and it isn't limited by cord length.

Cordless handheld vacuum

However, cordless handheld vacuums come with limited battery life, lower dust capacity, storage can be trickier, and maintenance is generally needed more often than with a corded alternative.

Corded Handheld Vacuum

You may prefer to stick with a corded handheld hoover instead. Obviously, this has some notable disadvantages over a cordless vacuum, but corded products let you continue to vacuum continually (assuming the device doesn't auto switch off from overheating, for example).

Corded handheld vacuum

Also corded handheld vacuums usually have a larger dust capacity since space is not being used by batteries. They also usually require less maintenance.

Portable Handheld Vacuum

You may prefer a more portable handheld hoover; one that you could bring on holidays, for instance. These handheld vacuums are generally smaller than most handheld units and will often come with travel-friendly accessories.

Portable handheld vacuum

Stick Handheld Vacuum

You could instead consider using a 2-in-1 or even 3-in-1 vacuum that converts into a handheld unit. A 2-in-1 stick and handheld vacuum is just that and will give you the freedom to choose between both methods of vacuuming.

Stick handheld vacuum

Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Best Cordless Handheld Vacuum

Miele Triflex HX1 Cat and Dog Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Miele Triflex HX1 Cat and Dog Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

While not exclusively a handheld hoover, the HX1 has a maximum power runtime of 17 minutes (up to an hour on lower settings). It comes with a 500ml capacity, variable power and takes about four hours to charge.

Its tools include a motorised rotary brush with headlights, a dusting brush, and a crevice nozzle. It is, however, on the more expensive side.

Things we liked
  • Great battery life
  • Variable power
  • Plenty of useful tools
Things we didn't like
  • Bit expensive
View Prices for this Product

Vax H85-GA-B10 Gator Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Vax H85-GA-B10 Gator Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Another solid option is this vacuum from Vax. The gator's mouth, unlike its swampy inspirator in the animal kingdom, is hygienic and easy to clean out! Not only is it lightweight, but the H85-GA-B10 it's great at getting to difficult to reach spots. This handheld vacuum cleaner provides up to 15 minutes of continuous use, although it takes about twelve hours to charge.

Things we liked
  • Light
  • Perfect for reaching awkward areas
  • Easy to remove waste from
Things we didn't like
  • It only lasts for 15 minutes max
View Prices for this Product

Bosch Unlimited BCS122GB

Bosch Unlimited BCS122GB Vacuum Cleaner

The BCS122GB is a bit on the costly side, but it has a nice appearance, and it does the job well. Further, this cordless hoover offers a battery life of up to sixty minutes, a two-year guarantee, and a solid 0.4l dust bin capacity.

Things we liked
  • Visually appealing
  • Does the job
  • Two-years guarantee
Things we didn't like
  • Could be cheaper
View Prices for this Product

Dirt Devil HandiMate 6V

Dirt Devil HandiMate 6V Vacuum Cleaner

For an especially inexpensive vacuum, try the HandiMate 6V from Dirt Devil. The base product is powered by 6 volts, but you can buy a 7.2 volt wet and dry or a 9.6-volt edition if you'd prefer. In particular, as for the 6v product, this has a run time of up to ten minutes. The HandiMate 6V comes with a 400ml dust bin capacity.

Things we liked
  • Not costly at all
  • Various products to choose from
Things we didn't like
  • The 6-volt product lasts for no more than ten minutes
View Prices for this Product

Best Corded Handheld Vacuum

Shark DuoClean Pet Flexology HV390UKT

Shark DuoClean Pet Flexology Vacuum Cleaner

Another non-exclusive handheld hoover worth looking at is the HV390UKT. Its handheld unit is great for reaching tight areas and features a mini turbo brush for upholstery, an electro brush head for cleaning floors, along with a dusting brush and crevice tool.

This Shark handheld vacuum works best on floorboards but can also be put to work on carpets and laminate. The HV390UKT has also received praise for its flexibility. With that being said, the handheld unit is a bit heavy, and the unit as a whole is a bit dear.

Things we liked
  • Great for reaching awkward areas
  • Various useful features
  • Fantastic for hoovering floorboards
Things we didn't like
  • The Handheld unit is a little heavy
  • Little costly
View Prices for this Product

Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum

Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum

This hoover from Bissell is great for hoovering up dog or cat hair, weighs just 4lb, is relatively cheap, and the power cord it uses is 16-feet long, providing a good amount of reach. It can be charged using any micro USB port.

On the other hand, it has a short run time, and it's not suited to narrow, difficult to reach spots.

Things we liked
  • Lightweight
  • Great for hoovering up pet hair
  • Fairly cheap
Things we didn't like
  • Not great for difficult to reach spots
  • Run time is pretty short
View Prices for this Product

Oneday Corded Handheld Stick Vacuum Cleaner 6 in 1

Oneday Corded Handheld Stick Vacuum Cleaner 6 in 1

This six-in-1 lightweight hoover features HEPA filtration and has an energy class rating of A+. This Oneday vacuum cleaner offers powerful suction, a ten-metre cord, ease of use, and it is multi-purpose. Its Pro Cyclone Separation Technology can basically separate the dirt in the air. This helps to provide for the various needs of your home.

Things we liked
  • Powerful suction
  • Lightweight
  • Energy efficient
  • Multi-purpose
Things we didn't like
  • A little costly
View Prices for this Product

VYTRONIX CSU600

VYTRONIX CSU600 Vacuum Cleaner

Another 2-in-1 option as an upright stick or handheld vacuum cleaner is the CSU600 from VYTRONIX. This hoover weighs just 2kg, features a powerful 600-watt motor, and comes with a five-metre power cord.

In addition, the CSU600 has a crevice tool and removable floor head. In total, it has a one-litre capacity. On the other hand, some customers reported that the filter can become clogged with pet hair/fur.

Things we liked
  • It weighs only 2kg
  • 600-watt motor
  • 5m power cord
Things we didn't like
  • Some customers reportedly had issues with the filter
View Prices for this Product

Best Portable Handheld Vacuum

HIMOX Handheld Vacuum Cordless

HIMOX Handheld Vacuum Cordless

This 120-watt rechargeable portable vacuum can be used for up to half an hour and takes just three hours to charge, thanks to its 2200mah lithium-ion battery. It has a noise output of 70dB while providing powerful suction. Beyond that, this HIMOX hoover is lightweight, easy to clean, and has a durable filter.

Things we liked
  • Works for up to half an hour
  • Lightweight
  • Low noise output
  • Powerful suction
  • Durable filter
Things we didn't like
  • It could be a little cheaper
View Prices for this Product

VacLife Handheld Vacuum VL189

VacLife Handheld Vacuum

This small, portable vacuum is most suited to use on carpets. It is quick charging, powered by 12 volts of electricity, and may be used in a corded or cordless format. While not the cheapest handheld vacuum, it is useful, well-designed, and comes with an array of helpful tools.

Things we liked
  • Quick charging
  • 12 power of volts
Things we didn't like
  • Not that cheap
View Prices for this Product

HoLife Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

HoLife Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

This lightweight portable vacuum cleaner comes with a wall-mount charger, charges in just three hours, and can be used for up to half an hour with one go. Among its versatility attachments are a crevice tool to reach debris in awkward spots and a brush tool.

It also has an outer filter and HEPA filter. The HoLife Handheld Vacuum Cleaner features an integrated ergonomic handle also.

Things we liked
  • 12 volts of power behind it
  • Versatility attachments
  • Charges in only three hours
Things we didn't like
  • Not the best suction power
  • It has a fairly limited ability when it comes to liquid suction
View Prices for this Product

Best Stick Handheld Vacuum

Triflex HX1 Pro Stick Vacuum

Triflex HX1 Pro Stick Vacuum

This multi-purpose vacuum can be used in three forms, including as a stick or a handheld vacuum. It has a good battery life as it can run for up to an hour, the batteries can be removed for convenient charging, and it comes with powerful suction.

However, the HX1 is a bit awkward to empty and pretty heavy too. It has various attachments, including an upholstery tool, dusting brush, and rotating brush nozzle.

Things we liked
  • Good battery life
  • 3-in 1 vacuum cleaner
  • Flexible design
Things we didn't like
  • Little tricky to empty
  • Quite heavy
View Prices for this Product

CordZero A9 Ultimate Kompressor Cordless Stick Vacuum

CordZero A9 Ultimate Kompressor Cordless Stick Vacuum

This well-designed and effective stick vacuum can also be converted into a handheld unit if you'd like. Among its useful features are its additional battery (providing a longer runtime), washable HEPA-system filters, indicator lights, and telescoping wand.

The A9 Ultimate Kompressor has three speeds, allowing you to clean a wide range of floors and messes. It offers about an hour runtime altogether, and it's quite easy to store away. It's also good for hoovering on practically any surface. On the other hand, this CordZero hoover has a fairly small dirt bin, and it needs plenty of regular maintenance.

Things we liked
  • Collects pet hair from any surface type
  • It can be turned into a handheld vacuum
  • Collects small and large debris without issue
Things we didn't like
  • The dirt compartment is quite small
  • It needs a lot of maintenance regularly
View Prices for this Product

Hoover H-Free 800 3-in-1 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

Hoover H-Free 800 3-in-1 Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner

This 3-in-1 hoover is relatively inexpensive given its high-quality nature. The H-Free 800 is highly rated, comes with smart tech (including a Wi-Fi app), an array of useful accessories, and hygienic emptying due to its HSpin-Core+ technology.

It offers fantastic cleaning and helpful and straightforward smart features in general. However, it takes about five hours to charge, its battery meter is reportedly not the best, and it can also be a bit awkward to empty.

Things we liked
  • Popular and high-quality
  • Wi-Fi-enabled
  • Plenty of accessories
  • Hygienic emptying
Things we didn't like
  • Long time to charge
  • Battery meter not the best
  • A bit tricky to empty
View Prices for this Product

Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Dyson Cyclone V10 Absolute Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

The V10 is a powerful and popular stick hoover from renowned vacuum brand Dyson. It, of course, can also be turned into a handheld vacuum. It can run as long as one hour and features a large 760ml dust bin capacity.

In addition, the V10 takes just 3.5 hours to charge and features variable power. The V10 is also verified as allergy and asthma-friendly.

Things we liked
  • Powerful vacuum
  • Charging takes just 3.5 hours
  • Variable power
Things we didn't like
  • No swappable battery
  • Quite costly
  • Power trigger can be irritating/tiring to hold down continually
View Prices for this Product

Best Anti-Allergenic Handheld Vacuum

Mengbo Investment Handheld Vacuum

Mengbo Investment Handheld Vacuum

A popular handheld vacuum for those with allergies is the Mengbo Investment. While fairly cheap, you'd certainly get a return on your investment with this handheld vacuum thanks to its dust-removal qualities, 99.9% cleaning efficiency, and a one-year warranty.

Things we liked
  • Relatively inexpensive
  • Great at removing dusty
  • 99.9 cleaning efficiency
Things we didn't like
  • Not that much information available online
  • It may be difficult to source
View Prices for this Product

Black + Decker Dustbuster Pivot

Black and Decker Dustbuster Pivot

The Dustbuster Pivot has a 14-minute battery life, 440ml dust bin capacity, and a four hour charge time. This Black + Decker handheld vacuum is great for hoovering up dust and is, therefore, a decent quality option for those with allergies.

It has an 18-volt motor that gives it a strong performance and lots of suction. The dustbin is easy to empty too. However, this handheld hoover is on the more expensive side.

Things we liked
  • Straightforward to empty the dustbin too
  • Four hour charge time
  • 440ml dust bin capacity
  • 14-minute battery life
Things we didn't like
  • Fairly costly
View Prices for this Product

SSBOY Handheld Vacuum

SSBOY Handheld Vacuum

This handheld vacuum can kill 99.9% of dust mites and bacteria alike, making it a great anti-allergenic option. It's also effective at removing bed bugs. Further, the SSBOY Handheld Vacuum comes with 220 volts of power backing it, an advanced HEPA filter, and safety/environmental protection. It is, nonetheless, a bit costly for its size.

Things we liked
  • It kills 99.99% of dust mites/bacteria
  • 220 volts of power
  • Advanced HEPA filter
Things we didn't like
  • A little expensive
View Prices for this Product

Best Lightweight Handheld Vacuum

Shark WV251UK

Shark WV251UK Handheld Vacuum

This light handheld hoover has an eight-minute battery life, 100ml dust bin capacity, and notably, it only weighs 0.6kg. The Shark WV251UK takes approximately two and a half hours to charge. This hoover has a modern wand design and is easy to use in difficult to reach spots. It's also straightforward to empty.

With two batteries, you could double its run time by having both charged before vacuuming. With that said, it's somewhat expensive.

Things we liked
  • 100ml dust bin capacity
  • It weighs just 0.6kg
  • It takes 2.5 hours to charge
  • Two batteries
Things we didn't like
  • Costly
View Prices for this Product

Bosch Youseries Vacuum

Bosch Youseries Vacuum

Not only is the Bosch Youseries a great lightweight vacuum, but it's also ergonomic. This simple hoover is easy to use, and the dust box is simply to remove. In addition, this handheld hoover has a USB chargeable battery with a nine-minute runtime, 250ml dust bin capacity, and takes around three hours to charge. It also weighs 0.6kg.

Things we liked
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight
  • Ergonomic vacuum
  • 250ml dust bin capacity
  • It takes three hours to charge
Things we didn't like
  • Not the best for hoovering up pet hairs
View Prices for this Product

Dyson V7 Trigger

Dyson V7 Trigger Vacuum

While quite dear for a handheld vacuum, with a Dyson you can guarantee you'll get quality. The V7 Trigger is a cordless vacuum with a 400ml dust bin capacity. It weighs only 1.38kg, has a thirty-minute battery life, and is easy to empty by pulling a tab over an open bin. In addition, the V7 Trigger is surprisingly quiet.

Things we liked
  • Great quality
  • 400ml dust bin capacity
  • 30-minute runtime
  • Easy and hygienic emptying
Things we didn't like
  • Not cheap
View Prices for this Product

Karcher WV5 Handheld Window Vacuum Cleaner

Karcher WV5 Handheld Window Vacuum Cleaner

While more so a specialist vacuum, the WV5 can still be helpful for most individuals who want to clean their home. Among its attachments are a squeegee making it a great multi-purpose hoover. It weighs roughly 0.6kg and comes with a 35-minute battery life.

Things we liked
  • High-quality
  • Multi-purpose functioning
  • 35 minutes battery life
Things we didn't like
  • Quite costly
View Prices for this Product

Best Handheld Vacuum for Carpet

Shark CH950UKT

Shark CH950UKT Vacuum Cleaner

The CH950UKT is a slim, 450ml capacity handheld vacuum that is ideal for use on carpets as well as hard surfaces. It weighs only 1.2kg and has a ten-minute battery life. However, it takes about four hours to charge.

It pretty much looks like a miniature version of a regular cordless stick vacuum, but it's technically and effectively a handheld vacuum. Its attachments include a crevice tool, motorised pet tool, and dusting brush.

Things we liked
  • Lightweight
  • 450ml dust bin capacity
  • Various attachments
Things we didn't like
  • Not the cheapest option
View Prices for this Product

VonHaus UV Anti-Allergic Vacuum Cleaner

VonHaus UV Anti-Allergic Vacuum Cleaner

Not only is this a good anti-allergenic handheld hoover, but this vacuum cleaner has a 1200ml dust bin capacity, a HEPA filtration system, and with 270 volts of power, it has a fifteen runtime. It's well-suited to multi-surface cleaning, so not just carpets but also surfaces like sofas, rugs, curtains, and so forth. Its 2-in-1 upholstery crevice tool adds to its cleaning ability.

Things we liked
  • 1200ml dust bin capacity
  • HEPA filtration system
  • 2-in-1 upholstery crevice tool
Things we didn't like
  • A little costly
View Prices for this Product

PRTUKYT Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

PRTUKYT Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

This handheld hoover is lightweight and powerful, with 120 watts backing it. This cordless vacuum has two detachable and washable filters, takes about three hours to charge, is suited to anywhere in the house, and comes with a maximum of 8000PA suction.

It's also reasonably priced given its qualities and also the range of accessories that come with this portable hoover.

Things we liked
  • Lightweight
  • Powerful
  • Helpful accessories
Things we didn't like
  • Some better options out there
View Prices for this Product

Best Handheld Vacuum for Wood Flooring

Dyson V11 Absolute

Dyson V11 Absolute Vacuum Cleaner

Probably the very best choice for cleaning hardwood floors is the V11 Absolute from Dyson. While certainly expensive, the V11 Absolute is well-suited to hard floors, laminate flooring, upholstery, deep pile carpet and rugs, hard floors, and laminate flooring, among other surfaces.

Its run time ranges from 12 to 60 minutes (depending on which power setting you choose), and it takes 4.5 hours to charge altogether. This Dyson handheld vacuum has a dust bin capacity of 760ml, 29.4 volts of power and comes with a two-year guarantee.

Things we liked
  • 760ml capacity
  • Suitable for many floor types
  • Up to an hour operation time
  • 29.4 volts of power
Things we didn't like
  • Very expensive hoover
View Prices for this Product

Laresar Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Laresar Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

As a 20 volt hoover, the Laresar Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a powerful (with a 26Kpa suction) and high-quality choice. This cordless hoover can be used as a stick or handheld vacuum. Its battery has a runtime of up to half an hour or 20 minutes on max mode.

It also comes with replaceable rolling brushes, a HEPA filtration system (could you have guessed?) and it has a 2-in-1 upholstery brush and long crevice nozzle. It is best suited to hardwood flooring.

Things we liked
  • Powerful suction
  • 20-volt vacuum
  • Half hour runtime
  • HEPA filtration system
Things we didn't like
  • Not that cheap given its not solely a handheld vacuum
View Prices for this Product

MANLI Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

MANLI Cordless Handheld Vacuum Cleaner

Another good option for hardwood flooring is this MANLI handheld hoover. It has a 700ml dust bin capacity, 20 volts of power behind it, and can operate continuously for up to 45 minutes! It comes with a bright LED light, reusable filter and has three use modes; handheld, wand, and car vacuum.

Things we liked
  • 700ml dust bin capacity
  • 20 volts of power
  • 45 minute run time
  • Reusable filter
  • Bright LED light
Things we didn't like
  • Not as highly rated as the Laresar
View Prices for this Product

Best Handheld Vacuum for Laminate Flooring

Shark HV382 Rocket DuoClean Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum

Shark HV382 Rocket DuoClean Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum

The HV382 comes with a dual brush roll system that directly engages with a floor to provide a polished look. It's incredibly lightweight (3.4kg to be precise), and it is well-suited for vacuuming up pet hairs. Its LED lights can help you notice hidden debris while you hoover. It is powered by 120 volts of electricity.

Things we liked
  • Good value for money
  • Lightweight
  • LED headlights
Things we didn't like
  • Top-heavy vacuum
  • Roller may jam
  • Not necessarily as durable as other options
View Prices for this Product

Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Vacuum

Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Vacuum

Another fantastic product from Dyson is the V8. It's a modern and stylish multi-purpose vacuum that weighs just 2.6kg, is compact, and simple to store. It also features a soft nylon roller and washable HEPA filter. Despite its positives, it is pretty costly and takes about four hours to recharge.

Things we liked
  • Premium quality
  • Modern and stylish
  • Ultra-lightweight
  • Compact and easy to store
Things we didn't like
  • Expensive
  • Many hours to recharge
View Prices for this Product

Roborock S6 2-in-1 Robot Hoover

Roborock S6 2-in-1 Robot Hoover

If you want to splash out on something more hi-tech, then you should consider purchasing this robotic vacuum from Roborock. It has 360° rotation, 98% accuracy, and a large lithium-ion battery for a whopping three hours of continual vacuuming.

It has fourteen different types of sensors on-board allowing it to easily and effectively navigate your home. It comes with Map Management 3.0 software that allows you to map out spaces in your home so the Roborock can get to work on the same rooms each time easily.

Things we liked
  • Hi-tech and modern
  • 360° rotation
  • 98% accuracy
  • Three hours of hoovering
Things we didn't like
  • Expensive
View Prices for this Product

What to Consider Before Buying a Handheld Vacuum

There's plenty of points you should contemplate before purchasing a handheld vacuum. Let's explore some standout examples.

Cost

Firstly, you should decide on what your budget is before setting out to make a purchase. Many shopping websites let you set the price range when searching for products. Once you know how much you're willing to spend, check out the best products in your preferred price range.

Dust Capacity

Each handheld vacuum has its own dust bin capacity. The larger your home and the more often it needs to be vacuumed, the bigger a vacuum's dust bin should be.

Run Time

In this article, we've reviewed products that run for eight minutes, while some run for an hour and hi-tech options like the Roborock S6 was shown to run for several hours. Think about how long you'd need a vacuum to run before making a choice, as this could save you plenty of time and make life easier in the future.

Weight

Make sure not to overlook how lightweight a handheld vacuum is. Sometimes having an ultra-lightweight product can make things that bit easier.

Portable handheld vacuum

FAQs

What is the best handheld vacuum cleaner for pet hair?

There are many standout examples, but arguably the Pet Hair Eraser Hand Vacuum is the best choice for removing pet hair.

How does a handheld vacuum cleaner work?

These vacuums usually function as a portable, battery-powered unit. Whether it's cordless or not, however, handheld vacs work as compact, lightweight alternatives to regular vacuums but still follow the same fundamental premise of using a motor to spin a fan, which creates suction.

How long do handheld vacuums last for?

On average, you can expect one to stick around for two to three years, but if well-maintained, they could last much longer.

Where can I buy a good handheld vacuum?

You'll find that many electrical stores will sell a decent range of handheld vacuums. Other retailers, such as catalogue retailers, sell handheld vacuums too. An alternative option is to check out websites like eBay.

What is a great quiet handheld vacuum?

For this, try the RUIMA Portable Handheld Vacuum Cleaner. If you can't source one, you should consider the HIMOX Handheld Vacuum Cordless.

Sources

  1. https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/appliances/best-handheld-vacuum/g5092/top-handheld-vacuum-reviews/
  2. https://www.the-ambient.com/reviews/hoover-h-free-800-review-2083
  3. https://www.mirror.co.uk/money/shopping-deals/best-handheld-vacuum-cleaners-uk-18853456
  4. https://spotlessvacuum.co.uk/hardwood/
  5. https://ohsospotless.com/how-long-do-vacuums-last/