Best and cheapest vacuum: 10 Best Choices

Finding a vacuum that doesn’t break the bank but still delivers a sparkling clean home can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. I know the feeling – I’ve spent hours poring over reviews, wondering if a low price tag meant sacrificing performance. But trust me, you don’t have to choose between your wallet and a clean living space. This guide is designed to cut through the noise, offering you a hands-on look at some of the best and cheapest vacuum options available today. We’ve explored compact designs, powerful stick vacuums, and versatile uprights to help you find an affordable cleaning solution that truly works for your needs. Get ready to discover reliable, budget-friendly vacuums that tackle dirt, dust, and pet hair without emptying your savings.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…	View on Amazon
	Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner for Home Pet Hair,…	View on Amazon
	Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner,…	View on Amazon
	fenhua Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner – Lightweight, Powerful…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon
	Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and…	View on Amazon
	AIRDIYA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Super Power Suction Stick…	View on Amazon
	Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum with…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum

This compact upright from Bissell truly surprised me with its powerful performance, especially given its small footprint. It’s incredibly lightweight, making it a breeze to carry around, whether you’re tidying up a dorm room or a small apartment. The Scatter-Free Technology is a standout feature, preventing debris from scattering across hard floors as you clean, which is a common issue with many budget vacuums. Plus, it’s nice to know that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, helping save homeless pets – a great bonus for animal lovers! Its dirt container is super easy to empty with just a push of a button, keeping maintenance simple.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Scatter-Free Technology: Effectively captures messes on hard floors.
  • Powerful Suction: Convenient and powerful cleaning.
  • Lightweight and Maneuverable: Weighs less than 8 pounds for easy transport.
  • Easy Empty Dirt Container: Quick debris disposal.
• Pros:
  • Great for hard floors and quick cleanups.
  • Extremely lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Supports a good cause.
• Cons: Might not offer deep carpet cleaning for high-pile rugs.
• Best for: Small apartments, dorm rooms, quick cleanups on hard floors, pet owners.
  Expert Opinion: This is a solid, no-frills upright that excels in portability and basic hard floor cleaning, perfect for those with limited storage and a desire for easy maintenance.

Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum

The Bissell Featherweight is a true chameleon, transforming from a stick vacuum to a handle vacuum, and even a stair vacuum. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for tackling various surfaces around the home, from sealed hard floors to low-pile carpets. I found its powerful suction impressive for such a lightweight unit, making those quick pickups a cinch. It comes with a crevice tool and floor nozzle, so you can easily clean furniture, stairs, and those awkward nooks and crannies. This really is a multipurpose tool that streamlines your cleaning routine, all while staying incredibly light and easy to handle.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Multipurpose Versatility: Three machines in one (stick, handle, stair vacuum).
  • Powerful Suction: Great for quick pickups on various surfaces.
  • Lightweight: Easy to maneuver and store.
  • Includes Attachments: Comes with a crevice tool and floor nozzle.
• Pros:
  • Highly versatile for different cleaning tasks.
  • Excellent for quick daily cleanups.
  • Extremely lightweight and easy to store.
• Cons: The dirt cup capacity is relatively small, requiring frequent emptying.
• Best for: Quick daily cleanups, small spaces, hard floors, stairs, versatility.
  Expert Opinion: For sheer adaptability and ease of use in a budget-friendly package, this Bissell Featherweight is hard to beat, particularly for homes with a mix of hard floors and low-pile carpets.

Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner

When I first used the Eureka NEU10AE5, I was genuinely impressed by its powerful all-floor suction. It effortlessly pulls dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets, making it a robust contender for a budget-friendly upright. Weighing in at just 7.7 pounds, it’s remarkably lightweight for an upright, which means less strain when you’re moving it around or carrying it upstairs. The quick-release handle is a clever design, allowing you to easily attach tools for above-floor cleaning. Plus, the washable filter is a fantastic eco-friendly feature that saves on ongoing maintenance costs.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Powerful All Floor Suction: Extracts dirt and hair from hard floors and carpets.
  • Quick Release Handle: Easy above-floor cleaning with included tools.
  • Lightweight & Easy Storage: Weighs only 7.7 pounds.
  • Washable Filter: Eco-friendly and low maintenance.
• Pros:
  • Strong suction for both hard floors and carpets.
  • Very lightweight for an upright vacuum.
  • Tools are conveniently stored on board.
• Cons: The 10.5” cleaning path is decent but not the widest for large areas.
• Best for: Homes with mixed flooring, pet owners, those needing versatile above-floor cleaning.
  Expert Opinion: This Eureka upright offers a fantastic balance of power, versatility, and lightweight design, proving that you can get serious cleaning capability without a hefty price tag.

Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner for Home Pet Hair

This Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum is a straightforward, reliable workhorse for everyday cleaning. At a mere 2.75 pounds, it’s incredibly light, making it simple to maneuver around furniture and up stairs. What I really appreciate is the continuous and stable high power from its corded design – no worrying about battery life or charging! It quickly converts between a stick vacuum and a handheld, allowing you to tackle everything from floors to car interiors. The low-maintenance aspect, with its bagless design and washable filter, further cements its place as a practical, budget-friendly option.

• Key features that stand out:
  • 2.75 lbs Lightweight: Easy to maneuver and carry.
  • Powerful Suction (Corded): Ensures continuous, stable power.
  • 3-in-1 Vacuum: Converts to handheld for versatility.
  • Easy to Store: Stands upright and has a cord wrap.
• Pros:
  • Always ready to go with no charging needed.
  • Extremely lightweight and portable.
  • Versatile with handheld mode and attachments.
• Cons: The cord might limit reach in larger rooms.
• Best for: Quick daily cleanups, small homes, apartments, pet hair, cars.
  Expert Opinion: A fantastic best and cheapest vacuum choice for those who value consistent power and extreme portability over cordless convenience, especially for smaller living spaces.

Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner

The Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum delivers reliable cleaning without fuss. Its versatile 2-in-1 design lets you switch between a stick and handheld mode effortlessly, making it great for everything from floors to upholstery. The 300W motor provides consistent suction, which I found quite effective on hard floors and low-pile carpets. A standout feature is the HEPA filtration, trapping 99.97% of particles, ensuring cleaner air – a big plus for allergy sufferers. Weighing just 3.9 pounds, it’s comfortable for extended use, and its self-standing design with a cord wrap makes storage a breeze.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Versatile 2-in-1 Design: Converts for different cleaning needs.
  • Effective 300W Motor: Consistent suction for hard floors and low-pile carpets.
  • HEPA Filtration: Removes 99.97% of fine particles for cleaner air.
  • Lightweight Design: Only 3.9 pounds for easy maneuverability.
• Pros:
  • Good value with HEPA filtration.
  • Versatile for multiple surfaces and handheld tasks.
  • Lightweight and easy to store.
• Cons: Not recommended for high-pile carpets or thick rugs.
• Best for: Hard floors, low-pile carpets, allergy sufferers, small apartments, quick cleanups.
  Expert Opinion: This Amazon Basics model punches above its weight with HEPA filtration and consistent corded power, making it an excellent best and cheapest vacuum for basic, effective cleaning.

fenhua Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner – Lightweight, Powerful

The fenhua Corded Stick Vacuum offers serious suction power with its 450W motor, generating an impressive 18KPA power suction. This makes it incredibly effective at tackling various messes, all while operating with a surprisingly low-noise motor – your pets will thank you! The 16.4 ft extra-long cable provides a generous cleaning radius, so you’re not constantly searching for new outlets. Its 5-in-1 multifunction capability, including a hose and crevice tool, means it adapts to virtually any cleaning task, from wood floors to sofas. The high-efficiency filter system ensures that dust and allergens are captured, preventing secondary pollution.

• Key features that stand out:
  • 18KPA Power Suction: Strong cleaning power from a 450W motor.
  • 16.4 Ft Extra Long Cable: Wide cleaning range without frequent unplugging.
  • 5-in-1 Multifunction: Highly versatile for various surfaces and tasks.
  • High-efficiency Filter: Multi-layer system traps 99.99% of dust and allergens.
• Pros:
  • Very powerful suction for its size.
  • Impressively long cord for extended reach.
  • Great for trapping allergens and purifying air.
• Cons: The corded design, while powerful, can be a minor inconvenience.
• Best for: Thorough deep cleaning on hard floors and low-pile carpets, allergy sufferers, larger rooms.
  Expert Opinion: If consistent, powerful corded suction and excellent filtration are your priorities in a best and cheapest vacuum, the fenhua model offers incredible value and versatility.

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner

Eureka’s PowerSpeed Upright is a powerhouse designed for thorough cleaning, boasting an upgraded Cyclone System that handles everything from large debris to microscopic dust. I found its powerful pick-up truly impressive, able to penetrate deep into carpets to extract embedded dirt and pet hair. Despite its robust performance, it remains surprisingly lightweight, making it less of a chore to use. With 5 height settings, you can easily switch between different carpet types and hard floors, ensuring optimal cleaning without scratching surfaces. The included multiple accessories, all stored on board, further enhance its utility for above-floor cleaning.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Upgraded Cyclone System: Handles various debris and dust types.
  • Powerful Pick-up: Deep cleaning on carpets and hard floors.
  • Lightweight: Strong performance without being cumbersome.
  • 5 Height Settings: Versatile for different floor types.
• Pros:
  • Excellent deep cleaning for carpets.
  • Good for pet hair removal.
  • Versatile with multiple height settings and on-board tools.
• Cons: Regular cleaning of the roller brush is necessary to prevent clogs.
• Best for: Homes with carpets and hard floors, pet owners, deeper cleaning tasks.
  Expert Opinion: For a budget-friendly upright that offers serious carpet cleaning power and adaptability for different floor types, the Eureka PowerSpeed is a top contender, making it one of the best and cheapest vacuum choices for comprehensive home cleaning.

Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor

This Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum is all about straightforward, efficient cleaning. At a mere 8.4 lbs, it’s designed for easy maneuverability around your home, complemented by a generous 25-ft power cord. It comes with upholstery and crevice tools, making it versatile for cleaning various surfaces and those tricky tight spots. I particularly liked the large 1.7L dust cup, which means fewer interruptions for emptying during a cleaning session. Plus, the washable filter contributes to long-lasting performance and keeps maintenance hassle-free, reinforcing its appeal as a practical, best and cheapest vacuum option.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Easy Maneuverability: Lightweight (8.4 lbs) with a long 25-ft cord.
  • Versatile Cleaning: Includes upholstery and crevice tools.
  • Large Capacity Dust Cup: 1.7L for longer cleaning sessions.
  • Washable Filter: Easy maintenance and long-lasting performance.
• Pros:
  • Lightweight for an upright, easy to move.
  • Large dust cup reduces emptying frequency.
  • Effective on both carpets and hard floors.
• Cons: Its basic features might not satisfy those looking for advanced functionalities.
• Best for: General home cleaning, larger areas, those preferring upright vacuums, budget-conscious buyers.
  Expert Opinion: A solid, reliable upright that covers all the basics with a focus on ease of use and maintenance, proving that sometimes simple is best when looking for the best and cheapest vacuum.

AIRDIYA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner, Super Power Suction Stick

The AIRDIYA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner truly impressed me with its upgraded 40Kpa suction, offering powerful cleaning in a cordless format. It features two adjustable power modes, perfect for tackling everything from pet hair to larger debris on hardwood floors and low-pile carpets. One of its best features is the MAX 35-Minute Runtime from its rechargeable batteries, giving you ample time to clean without being tethered to an outlet. The 6-Layer High-Efficiency Filtration System is another highlight, capturing 99.99% of dust and allergens for cleaner air. Plus, at just 2.8 pounds, it’s incredibly light for extended handheld use.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Upgraded 40Kpa Suction: Powerful cleaning for various debris.
  • MAX 35-Minute Runtime: Good battery life for cordless cleaning.
  • 6-Layer High-Efficiency Filtration System: Captures 99.99% of dust and allergens.
  • Multi-Functional Brushes: Versatile tools for different cleaning needs.
• Pros:
  • Exceptional suction power for a cordless vacuum.
  • Good runtime on a single charge.
  • Excellent filtration system for air quality.
• Cons: Requires careful maintenance of filters and brush roll, and is best for low-pile carpets only.
• Best for: Hardwood, tile, and low-pile carpet floors, pet owners, quick cordless cleanups, allergy sufferers.
  Expert Opinion: This AIRDIYA cordless stick vacuum pushes the boundaries for a best and cheapest vacuum in the cordless category, offering impressive power and filtration, ideal for those who prioritize flexibility and clean air.

Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum

The Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro is a renowned name for a reason, even in the “best and cheapest vacuum” category. It delivers powerful suction for thorough deep carpet cleaning and excels at pet hair pickup on all surfaces. What makes it incredibly versatile is its ultra-lightweight design that easily converts into a handheld vacuum, allowing for comprehensive floor-to-ceiling cleaning. With specialized pet tools included, it’s a dream for pet owners. The XL dust cup capacity means fewer interruptions, and the LED headlights are a game-changer, revealing hidden dirt and pet hair you might otherwise miss.

• Key features that stand out:
  • Powerful Suction: Deep carpet cleaning and strong pet hair pickup.
  • Lightweight Versatility: Converts to handheld for floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
  • Perfect for Pets: Includes specialized pet tools.
  • XL Dust Cup Capacity: 0.68-quart dust cup for extended cleaning.
  • LED Headlights: Reveals hidden debris.
• Pros:
  • Excellent for pet hair on all surfaces.
  • Great suction for deep carpet cleaning.
  • Very versatile with handheld mode and LED lights.
• Cons: Corded design limits cordless freedom.
• Best for: Pet owners, homes with varied flooring including deep carpets, detailed cleaning.
  Expert Opinion: While corded, this Shark Rocket offers near-premium performance for pet owners and those needing strong, versatile suction, making it a stellar choice when considering the best and cheapest vacuum with a focus on deep cleaning.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best and cheapest vacuum, understanding the nuances between models is key. We’ve seen a mix of uprights and stick vacuums, each with their own strengths.

For hard floors and quick, everyday mess management, the Bissell Featherweight and Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum stand out. They’re incredibly lightweight and offer great maneuverability. The Bissell CleanView Compact also shines on hard floors with its scatter-free technology, making it ideal for kitchen spills.

If pet hair is a major concern, the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro is a clear winner, boasting powerful suction and specialized pet tools designed to capture embedded hair. The Eureka NEU10AE5 and Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright are also strong contenders for homes with furry friends, offering robust suction for both carpets and hard floors. The AIRDIYA Cordless also provides powerful suction specifically for pet hair on low-pile carpets.

For those with mixed flooring types, particularly homes with a good amount of carpeting, the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright (PowerSpeed) and the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro are excellent choices due to their strong deep-cleaning capabilities and height settings. However, if you primarily have hard floors and low-pile rugs, the Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Corded Stick offers great value with its HEPA filtration.

Portability and storage are major factors for smaller living spaces or dorms. The Bissell Featherweight and Eureka Corded Stick Vacuum are incredibly light and compact, easily storable. Even the Bissell CleanView Compact, an upright, is remarkably light at under 8 pounds. The AIRDIYA Cordless also excels here with its lightweight, untethered design.

Regarding filtration and air quality, the Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Corded Stick and the fenhua Corded Stick Vacuum Cleaner boast impressive HEPA or high-efficiency filtration systems, making them excellent choices for allergy sufferers looking for a best and cheapest vacuum. The AIRDIYA Cordless also features a robust 6-layer system.

Finally, the choice between corded and cordless often comes down to preference for consistent power versus freedom of movement. Corded options like the fenhua and Shark HV322 offer unwavering, strong suction. Cordless options like the AIRDIYA provide unparalleled flexibility, though you’ll need to manage battery life. All these options prove that you can get serious cleaning power without spending a fortune.

Final Verdict

After thoroughly reviewing these contenders, it’s clear that finding the best and cheapest vacuum depends heavily on your specific needs.

For those seeking the ultimate versatility in a compact, budget-friendly package, the Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum truly impressed us. Its 3-in-1 design means it can handle floors, stairs, and even serve as a handheld for furniture, making it a fantastic all-rounder for small to medium spaces.

If deep cleaning carpets and tackling stubborn pet hair are your top priorities, and you don’t mind a cord, the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum is an absolute powerhouse. Its specialized tools and LED headlights ensure no pet hair escapes, delivering performance often found in much pricier models.

For apartment dwellers or those with primarily hard floors who need a reliable, lightweight upright with excellent scatter-free performance, the Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum is a smart pick. It’s easy to store, easy to use, and supports a great cause.

And if cordless convenience with serious suction and advanced filtration is what you crave, the AIRDIYA Cordless Vacuum Cleaner stands out. It delivers strong power and a decent runtime, making it ideal for quick yet thorough cleans without the hassle of a power outlet, especially on hard floors and low-pile carpets.

Ultimately, each of these vacuums proves that you don’t need to break the bank to keep your home spotless. Consider what cleaning challenges you face most often, and you’ll find a high-value vacuum on this list ready to get the job done.

FAQ Section

1. What should I look for when buying the best and cheapest vacuum?
When searching for a budget-friendly vacuum, prioritize suction power, the type of flooring you have (hardwood, carpet, or a mix), whether you need attachments for pet hair or crevices, and if you prefer corded for consistent power or cordless for flexibility. Look for washable filters to save on maintenance costs, and consider the weight if portability is important to you.

2. Can a cheap vacuum truly handle pet hair effectively?
Absolutely! While some high-end vacuums are specifically marketed for pets, several affordable models, like the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro or the Eureka NEU10AE5, offer strong suction and specialized tools that are highly effective at picking up pet hair from various surfaces. Always check product descriptions for “pet hair” specific features.

3. Are corded or cordless vacuums better for a budget buyer?
Both have their merits. Corded vacuums, like the fenhua or Eureka stick models, often provide more consistent and powerful suction for a lower price point, as you don’t pay for battery technology. They’re always ready to go. Cordless options, like the AIRDIYA, offer unparalleled convenience and freedom of movement but can sometimes have shorter runtimes and slightly higher costs for comparable power. Your cleaning area size and preference for convenience versus power consistency will guide your choice for the best and cheapest vacuum for you.

4. How often should I clean or replace the filters on my budget vacuum?
To maintain optimal performance and prolong the life of your vacuum, it’s generally recommended to clean washable filters every month or two, depending on usage. If your vacuum uses disposable filters, they should typically be replaced every 3 to 6 months. Regular filter maintenance is crucial for any best and cheapest vacuum to ensure it continues to operate efficiently and maintain good suction.

5. What’s the main difference between stick and upright vacuums, and which is better for me?
Upright vacuums (e.g., Bissell CleanView Compact, Eureka PowerSpeed) are typically larger and more powerful, often excelling at deep carpet cleaning and covering larger areas. Stick vacuums (e.g., Bissell Featherweight, Amazon Basics 2-in-1) are lighter, slimmer, and more versatile, often converting to handhelds, making them great for quick cleanups, hard floors, and smaller spaces. If you have a lot of carpet, an upright might be better. For varied surfaces and quick daily tasks, a stick vacuum could be your best and cheapest vacuum choice.

6. Do budget vacuums offer good air filtration for allergy sufferers?
Many affordable vacuums, including the Amazon Basics 2-in1 Corded Stick and the fenhua Corded Stick Vacuum, now feature HEPA or multi-layer high-efficiency filtration systems. These are excellent for trapping allergens like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, significantly improving air quality in your home. Always check the product specifications for specific filtration details if you suffer from allergies.

7. Can I use these “best and cheapest vacuum” options on all floor types?
Most of the vacuums reviewed are versatile enough for both hard floors and low-pile carpets. However, it’s crucial to check individual product details. Some lightweight stick vacuums, like the Amazon Basics 2-in-1, are not recommended for high-pile carpets. Uprights with height adjustments, such as the Eureka PowerSpeed, tend to perform better across a wider range of carpet depths.