5 Best lightweight vacuum models tested for 2025

I remember the days of lugging a heavy, clunky vacuum cleaner around my apartment, dreading every corner and staircase. My back would ache, and I’d often skip vacuuming altogether, letting dust bunnies gather like they were holding a convention. That’s when I decided enough was enough and started my quest for the best lightweight vacuum. What I discovered was a whole new world of cleaning – vacuums that are powerful enough to tackle pet hair and embedded dirt, yet so light you can practically dance with them. In this guide, I’ve put five top-contending lightweight vacuum models through their paces, testing their suction, maneuverability, and overall cleaning prowess on various surfaces. Whether you’re dealing with pet dander, a small apartment, or just want an easier way to keep your home spotless, I’m confident you’ll find your next cleaning companion here. Let’s dive in and find the perfect lightweight vacuum to make your cleaning routine a breeze!

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm…	View on Amazon
	Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum, Hepa…	View on Amazon
	Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for…	View on Amazon

Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum

This Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro quickly became one of my favorites for its sheer power and versatility. Right out of the box, you can feel how light it is, making it incredibly easy to carry up and down stairs or reach high places. I was genuinely impressed by its POWERFUL SUCTION – it dug deep into my carpets, pulling out pet hair and debris I didn’t even know was there. Plus, it effortlessly transitions to hard floors, picking up crumbs without scattering them. The transformation into a handheld vacuum is super simple, making it fantastic for cleaning furniture and my car. For anyone with furry friends, the specialized pet tools are a godsend, really getting into those stubborn spots.

• Key features that stand out:

  • POWERFUL SUCTION: Provides thorough deep carpet cleaning and powerful pet hair pickup on all surfaces.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT VERSATILITY: Ultra-lightweight design that converts into a handheld vacuum for floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
  • PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes specialized tools to capture embedded pet hair from various surfaces and hard-to-access areas.
  • XL DUST CUP CAPACITY: A generous 0.68-quart dust cup for extended cleaning sessions without constant emptying.
  • LED HEADLIGHTS: Bright lights on both the handheld and nozzle to illuminate hidden debris and pet hair.

• Pros:

  • Excellent suction power for both carpets and hard floors.
  • Highly versatile, easily converts to a handheld.
  • Effective at picking up pet hair.
  • Large dust cup means fewer interruptions.
  • LED lights help spot hidden dirt.
• Cons: The cord, while long, can limit reach in very large spaces.
• Best for: Homes with pets, varied flooring types, and those who need powerful, consistent suction without a heavy machine.

Expert Opinion: For a corded stick vacuum, the Shark Rocket Deluxe Pro punches above its weight. Its robust suction and ability to transform into a handheld make it a highly practical choice for comprehensive cleaning, especially if you have pets.

Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum

When I first picked up the Bissell CleanView Compact, I was shocked by how light it was – seriously, under 8 pounds! It felt like I was holding a feather. This little powerhouse is perfect for quick cleanups and smaller spaces, like dorm rooms or apartments. I noticed its SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY really worked wonders on my kitchen’s hardwood floors, grabbing cereal spills without flicking bits everywhere. Despite its compact size, the POWERFUL SUCTION made short work of dust and debris. Plus, knowing that EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS through the BISSELL Pet Foundation just adds a warm fuzzy feeling to using it. Emptying the dirt container is also a breeze – just a quick button press.

• Key features that stand out:

  • EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS: Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation’s mission.
  • SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Effectively captures messes on hard floors with minimal scattering.
  • POWERFUL SUCTION: Delivers convenient, strong cleaning performance in a small package.
  • LIGHTWEIGHT AND MANEUVERABLE: Weighs less than 8 pounds, ensuring easy transport and navigation.
  • EASY EMPTY DIRT CONTAINER: Simple, push-button dirt disposal.

• Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Great for hard floors, prevents scattering.
  • Powerful suction for its size.
  • Supports a good cause.
  • Simple and hygienic dirt disposal.
• Cons: Lacks specialized attachments for detailed or above-floor cleaning.
• Best for: Small apartments, dorm rooms, quick hard floor cleanups, and budget-conscious buyers who appreciate supporting pet welfare.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell CleanView Compact is an excellent choice for a no-fuss, highly portable cleaning solution, particularly for hard surfaces. Its lightweight design makes it incredibly user-friendly for everyday spills.

Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum

The Bissell Featherweight really impressed me with its versatile cleaning: three machines in one design. I used it as a stick vacuum for quick passes over my low-pile rugs, then detached the handle to tackle dusty stairs, and finally, converted it into a handheld for cleaning upholstery with the crevice tool. It’s incredibly convenient for those “grab-and-go” cleaning moments. Despite its minimalist design, the powerful suction is surprisingly effective for quick pickups and surface dirt. It’s truly a multi-tasker that won’t break your back or your budget, making it an ideal lightweight vacuum for smaller spaces.

• Key features that stand out:

  • Powerful suction: Great for quick pickups with multipurpose versatility.
  • Versatile cleaning three machines in one: Functions as a stick vacuum, handheld vacuum, and stair vacuum.
  • Includes crevice tool and floor nozzle: Designed for cleaning furniture, stairs, hard floors, and surface dirt on carpets/area rugs.
  • Compact design: Ideal for small spaces and easy storage.

• Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
  • Highly versatile 3-in-1 design.
  • Good suction for quick cleanups.
  • Comes with useful tools for various tasks.
  • Affordable option for everyday cleaning.
• Cons: The 15-foot cord is a bit short for larger rooms, requiring more outlet changes.
• Best for: Small homes, apartments, dorms, quick daily cleanups, and anyone needing a highly adaptable and ultra-light vacuum.

Expert Opinion: This Featherweight model is a testament to how much power and versatility can be packed into a truly lightweight vacuum. It’s the perfect companion for quick, targeted cleaning across multiple surfaces and areas.

Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum

The Shark NV352 Navigator is a household name for a reason, and after testing, I understand why it’s considered one of the best lightweight vacuum options in the upright category. Its standout feature is definitely the LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY, which made cleaning my stairs and high shelves unbelievably easy. Instead of wrestling the whole vacuum, I just popped off the pod and carried the lightweight canister. For anyone with allergies (like me!), the ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY combined with a HEPA filter is a game-changer, genuinely trapping dust and allergens. It boasts powerful suction for deep carpet cleaning and effortlessly switches to bare floors with the brushroll shutoff. Its swivel steering also made navigating around furniture a breeze.

• Key features that stand out:

  • LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod allows for easy above-floor cleaning on stairs, furniture, and more.
  • ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY: Works with a HEPA filter to effectively trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
  • POWERFUL & LIGHTWEIGHT: Delivers strong suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors, with an easy-to-manage design.
  • BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Instantly switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning.
  • SWIVEL STEERING: Enables easy maneuverability around obstacles and into tight spaces.
  • PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes powerful attachments like the wide upholstery tool for efficient pet hair pickup.

• Pros:

  • Exceptional for allergy sufferers with HEPA filtration.
  • Lift-away feature adds incredible versatility for above-floor cleaning.
  • Strong suction power for both carpets and hard floors.
  • Easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
  • Excellent for pet hair removal.
  • Comes with a generous 5-year limited warranty.
• Cons: While lightweight for an upright, it’s still bulkier than stick vacuums.
• Best for: Allergy sufferers, homes with pets, mixed flooring types, and those who need powerful deep cleaning with versatile above-floor reach.

Expert Opinion: The Shark Navigator Lift-Away really shines as a lightweight vacuum that doesn’t compromise on power or features. Its ability to transform for different cleaning tasks, coupled with advanced allergen filtration, makes it a top-tier choice for comprehensive home cleaning.

Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner

The Eureka Lightweight Upright impressed me with its robust cleaning capabilities, especially considering its light build. Its Upgraded Cyclone System really proved effective, not just with everyday dirt but also handling larger debris and even microscopic dust on both my carpets and hard floors. I loved the 5 Height Settings, which allowed me to easily switch from deep-pile rugs to my kitchen’s hard floors without skipping a beat, and the wheels were surprisingly gentle on my hardwood. The powerful pick-up penetrated deep into the carpet, leaving it visibly cleaner. Plus, having multiple accessories stored right on board meant I always had the right tool for cleaning curtains, ceilings, or even the car. This lightweight vacuum is a strong all-rounder.

• Key features that stand out:

  • Upgraded Cyclone System: Enhanced to handle large debris, smaller dirt, and microscopic dust effectively.
  • Powerful pick-up: Penetrates deep into carpets to extract embedded dirt, dust, and debris.
  • Lightweight: Designed to be easy to maneuver without compromising on power.
  • 5 Height Settings: Adapts seamlessly to carpets, shag rugs, and hard floors, with smooth-running wheels to prevent scratches.
  • Multiple accessories included: On-board tools like a crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool for versatile above-floor cleaning.
  • Traps 99.9% of dust, dander and allergens: Contributes to a cleaner, healthier home environment.

• Pros:

  • Excellent suction for deep carpet cleaning.
  • Versatile with 5 height settings for all floor types.
  • Lightweight for an upright, making it easier to push.
  • Comes with a good array of on-board tools.
  • Effective at trapping allergens.
  • Upgraded cyclone system handles various debris types.
• Cons: Requires regular cleaning of the roller brush to prevent clogs and maintain performance.
• Best for: Homes with a mix of carpet and hard flooring, those needing powerful deep cleaning, and users who appreciate on-board tool storage.

Expert Opinion: The Eureka Lightweight Upright offers substantial cleaning power and adaptability for a lightweight vacuum in its class. It’s a reliable choice for thorough cleaning across diverse floor types, just be mindful of the maintenance reminder.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best lightweight vacuum, you’ll notice a few key differences among these top contenders.

For sheer power and deep cleaning, the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro and the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright stand out. The Shark Rocket offers corded, consistent suction and transforms into a powerful handheld, while the Eureka excels at penetrating deep into carpets with its cyclone system and multiple height settings. If you prioritize consistent, uninterrupted power, the corded options are generally superior.

Versatility is where the Bissell Featherweight Stick and the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift-Away truly shine. The Featherweight is a marvel with its 3-in-1 design, perfect for quick, adaptable cleaning tasks in smaller spaces. The Navigator, on the other hand, offers an upright experience with the fantastic “lift-away” pod for tackling stairs and high areas, giving it a broader range for a full-size home.

If pet hair is your main battle, all the Shark models (HV322 and NV352) come equipped with specialized pet tools and strong suction specifically designed to pick up embedded fur. The Bissell CleanView also mentions powerful suction, but without specific pet tools, it might be less effective on very stubborn pet hair.

For allergy sufferers, the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift-Away with its Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filter is the clear winner. The Eureka also traps 99.9% of dust and allergens, making both excellent choices for a healthier home environment.

Finally, for the most compact and feather-light experience, the Bissell CleanView Compact (under 8 pounds) and the Bissell Featherweight Stick are unmatched. These are ideal for dorms, small apartments, or anyone who struggles with heavier machines and just needs something to quickly tidy up hard floors and light carpets.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best lightweight vacuum truly depends on your specific needs, but after putting these models to the test, I can confidently recommend a few for different scenarios:

If you have a home with pets and a mix of flooring, and you need consistent, powerful suction for deep cleaning, the Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum is an exceptional choice. Its powerful motor and pet-specific tools make it a pet hair vanquisher, and its versatility is a huge bonus.

For allergy sufferers or those with larger homes and pets, the Shark NV352 Navigator Lift Away Upright Vacuum really stands out. Its combination of robust suction, lift-away convenience, and top-tier allergen filtration creates an incredibly clean and healthier environment. It’s a workhorse that’s surprisingly easy to handle.

If your priority is ultimate portability, quick cleanups, and multi-functional use in smaller spaces, then the Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum is your champion. It’s an inexpensive, incredibly light, and highly adaptable little vacuum that’s perfect for apartments or as a secondary cleaner.

And for a solid, affordable upright that handles varied floors well and comes with useful tools, the Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner offers fantastic value. Just remember to give its roller brush some love occasionally!

No matter which you choose, upgrading to a lightweight vacuum will make your cleaning routine significantly easier and more enjoyable. Happy cleaning!

Comprehensive FAQ Section

Q1: What exactly defines a “lightweight vacuum”?
A1: Generally, a lightweight vacuum weighs less than 12-15 pounds. Many stick vacuums and compact uprights fall into this category, with some models weighing as little as 3-8 pounds, making them very easy to carry and maneuver.

Q2: Are lightweight vacuums as powerful as heavier traditional vacuums?
A2: While some ultra-light models might not match the raw power of a top-tier heavy upright, many modern lightweight vacuum cleaners, especially corded stick vacuums and lighter uprights like the Shark Navigator, offer surprisingly strong suction. They are very effective for everyday cleaning, pet hair, and even deep cleaning on various surfaces.

Q3: Are lightweight vacuums good for pet hair?
A3: Absolutely! Many lightweight vacuum models, particularly those from brands like Shark, are specifically designed with powerful suction and specialized tools (like pet multi-tools or brush rolls) to effectively pick up pet hair from carpets, hard floors, and upholstery. Look for models that highlight “perfect for pets” in their features.

Q4: Can a lightweight vacuum replace my full-size upright vacuum?
A4: For many homes, especially those with smaller footprints, a lightweight vacuum can absolutely serve as the primary cleaner. Models with good suction, versatile attachments, and features like lift-away pods (e.g., Shark Navigator) can tackle most cleaning tasks. However, if you have a very large home with extensive deep-pile carpeting, you might still prefer a heavy-duty upright for the most intense cleaning sessions.

Q5: What are the main benefits of choosing a lightweight vacuum?
A5: The primary benefits include ease of use (less fatigue, easier to push/pull), maneuverability (easier to get into tight spaces, around furniture), portability (simple to carry up stairs or between rooms), and convenient storage due to their smaller footprint. This makes cleaning less of a chore and more accessible for everyone.

Q6: Should I get a corded or cordless lightweight vacuum?
A6: Both have pros and cons. Corded lightweight vacuum models offer consistent, fade-free power and unlimited run time, making them great for larger areas or longer cleaning sessions. Cordless lightweight vacuum models provide ultimate freedom of movement without being tied to an outlet, but they are limited by battery life and typically have less sustained power. Your choice depends on whether you prioritize convenience or consistent power.

Q7: How often should I empty the dirt cup on my lightweight vacuum?
A7: It’s best practice to empty the dirt cup after every use or when it reaches its maximum fill line. This ensures optimal suction performance and prevents your lightweight vacuum from getting clogged. For smaller capacity dust cups, you might need to empty it more frequently during a single cleaning session.