Vacuuming takes a lot of effort, especially if you’re using a bulky upright vacuum. This makes vacuuming a strenuous chore.
It might be time to switch to a lighter vacuum. We’ve researched lots of options that are as powerful, but not as heavy, as your current machine.
In this guide, we’ll show you everything you should consider before buying one. Plus, we’ve rounded up the seven best lightweight vacuums currently on the market.
- LED headlights
- Swivel design
- 45 minutes battery
- 25-feet power cord
- Ergonomic design
- Two-speed brush roll
- 60 minutes runtime
- HEPA filtration system
- Ground-in dirt
- Lightweight design
- Three machines in one
- Cord wraps for storage
- Edge cleaning bristles
- Powerful reach
- Cordless charging system
- Various cleaning tools
- Large easy to clean canister
- 30 minutes runtime
- Collapsible handle
- Removable battery
- Lay flat design
The Best Lightweight Vacuums of 2024
It’s time to unveil the seven best lightweight vacuums.
Eureka Stylus Cordless Stick and Handheld Vacuum Cleaner
Best All Round Lightweight Vacuum
Our favorite feature of this Eureka vacuum is the LED headlights. But there is a lot more to love about it as well.
Depending on the flooring you need to clean, you can choose between three vacuuming modes. Use low-speed mode for hardwood floors and high-speed for carpets.
Another great feature of this model is that it can convert into a handheld. It’s easy to detach to clean sofas, curtains, and even inside your car.
The filters are washable, too. Just clean it with water and leave it to dry in the sunlight. Plus, it comes with two attachments: a crevice tool and brush.
What We Like
LED Headlights for Dark Spots
Sometimes it’s hard to spot dust bunnies and debris hiding out of sight. With the strip of LED headlights on the front of the vacuum, the visibility is excellent.
They light up the ground in front of the vacuum so you can clean dark, shaded spaces. This is great for seeing what lurks underneath furniture, such as sofas and beds.
Swivel Design for Easy Maneuvering
This vacuum has a unique design that lets you clean those hard-to-reach spots. It can swivel and has a low-profile head to reach the difficult-to-reach areas for cleaning. No traces of dirt are left behind.
The vacuum can easily move past objects. So you won’t have to lift and reposition it if there is furniture in your way. You can simply move around it.
Wall Mount for Storage
The Eureka stick is straightforward to store. You attach the screws to the wall and insert them into the included mount. Then, you can hang up the device neatly.
This will save you cupboard space and keep the vacuum within easy reach whenever you need it.
Battery Life of 45 Minutes
Not all cordless vacs have great runtime, but this one certainly does. The lithium-ion battery will keep going for an impressive 30 to 45 minutes.
A full recharge takes several hours to complete. There’s an LED indicator to let you know when it’s done.
What We Don't Like
No Battery Percentage Indicator
A few users do not like the idea of just having the LED lights as the only measure of a fully charged unit. There are just two lights to distinguish whether it’s been half charged or fully charged.
Product Specs
| Weight | 6.4 pounds |
| Style | Stick |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Runtime | Up to 45 minutes |
| Handheld Conversion | Yes |
Our Ratings
Shark Rocket HV302 Ultra-Light Corded Stick Vacuum
Longest Cord Length Lightweight Vacuum
Corded vacuums can be limiting since you need to be nearby a power outlet. But that’s definitely not a concern with this offering from Shark. With a power cord 25 feet long, the possibilities are practically limitless.
What’s more, this vacuum only weighs 8.2 pounds. It’s nice and lightweight. It has 500 watts of power that provide good suction for getting rid of dirt and debris.
The swivel steering means it’s easy to glide around objects. It also converts to a handheld so that you can clean furnishings and surfaces in addition to your floors and rugs.
The dust cup only holds up to 0.48 liters of dirt and debris. But once you’re finished cleaning, it’s easy to empty.
What We Like
25-Feet Power Cord
The Shark Rocket has the longest power cord of any model on our list – it’s 25-feet long. Even though it’s a corded machine, you still have a lot of freedom of movement. So, you don’t have to switch between different power outlets constantly.
Ergonomic Design Body and Handle
The handle is ergonomically designed, functional and comfortable to hold. The brush roll switches are located on the handle. You can easily access them whenever you need to adjust the speed of the vacuum or change the cleaning mode.
Multiple Attachments Included
You’ll receive four different attachments with this vacuum. The first is an extension wand for those hard-to-reach high spots. There is also a dusting brush for cleaning surfaces.
Then, the pet upholstery tool will get rid of stubborn hair and fur. Finally, there’s a 12-inch crevice tool.
Two-Speed Brush Roll
The motorized brush roll makes this Shark Rocket a good choice for homes with a lot of carpeting.
You can set it to work at one of two speeds. Simply select the intensity of the brush roll depending on your specific cleaning needs at the time.
What We Don't Like
Small 0.48 Liter Dust Canister
The dust canister only holds up to 0.48 liters of dirt. This can fill up quite quickly, especially when you’re doing a deep clean. The size of the container means you’ll have to empty it more often.
Product Specs
| Weight | 8.2 pounds |
| Style | Stick |
| Cordless | No |
| Runtime | N/A |
| Handheld Conversion | Yes |
Our Ratings
Dyson Cyclone V10 Lightweight Cordless Stick Vacuum
Longest Runtime Lightweight Vacuum
With a long runtime on a cordless vacuum, you can deep clean your home without running out of charge. Thankfully, this stick vacuum offers up to 60 minutes of suction power on a single charge. That should be enough to make it through your whole home.
Along with its excellent runtime, another great feature of this vacuum is the HEPA filtration system.
The vacuum is lightweight at five pounds, and you can quickly transform it into a handheld vacuum. Plus, its low profile is perfect for scooting underneath furniture.
You can choose from three attachments — a dusting brush as well as a crevice and combination tool.
What We Like
60 Minutes Runtime
You can enjoy up to 60 minutes of cleaning before it has to be charged up again. This does depend on the setting you use, though.
In total, there are three power modes: I, II, and max suction. The one-hour runtime is with the first mode. On mode II, you’ll get about 20 minutes of powerful suction.
When it runs out of battery, replace it on the docking station. It takes around 3.5 hours to charge fully.
HEPA Filtration System
The HEPA filter efficiently captures pollen, pet dander, smoke, and other contaminants. This will keep your house clean and limit sneezing, skin irritation, and wheezing from dust allergies.
Dyson boasts that this machine can trap 99.97 percent of allergens as small as 0.3 microns.
However, to keep it working properly, it’s recommended to wash the filter unit at least once a month.
Three Power Modes
Not every cleaning situation requires the same amount of power. With this lean machine, you can choose from three different modes. Each cleaning mode offers a specific level of suction.
Mode I is excellent for everyday quick cleanups, and you can use max mode for seasonal deep cleaning. Don’t forget, though, that the overall runtime will be less when using a higher setting.
Tackle Ground-in Dirt
Do your kids and pets track dirt and mud into the rugs? Fret not. Even ground-in dirt is no problem for this vacuum cleaner.
The Dyson Cyclone V10 has a motorized cleaner head, good for scrubbing carpet and getting into the fibers. It also features stiff nylon bristles for loosening embedded dirt.
What We Don't Like
You Have to Hold the Trigger
It’s disappointing that this vacuum doesn’t have a continuous “on” switch. Some people may like the trigger for control of suction. But it doesn’t provide continuous power for deep cleans.
You’ll have to keep the button pressed down the whole time that you’re using this vacuum cleaner.
Our Dyson has this feature, and at first, it was annoying, but we quickly got used to it.
Product Specs
| Weight | 5 pounds |
| Style | Stick |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Runtime | 60 minutes |
| Handheld Conversion | Yes |
Our Ratings
Bissell Featherweight Stick Vacuum
Best Featherweight Vacuum
If the weight of your vacuum is your top priority, you can’t go wrong with this stick vacuum from Bissell. It only weighs three pounds – the lightest one on our list. It sure does live up to its Featherweight name.
It’s 44.25 inches high, mains operated, and with a 15-foot power cable to reach around your home. We’re big fans of the cord wraps on this machine. They keep everything neat when it’s time to pack up the vacuum and store it away.
The dust canister is easy to empty – press the button and drop the contents into the trash. There’s one simple power button on this machine, and the handle is comfortable to hold.
What We Like
Lightweight Design at Three Pounds
No doubt you’re reading this article because you’re in search of a lightweight vacuum cleaner. This Bissell only weighs three pounds — the lightest of our recommendations.
It’s effortless to maneuver around the home. If a heavy vacuum makes you resent your cleaning chores, this is a great choice.
Three Machines in One
We love that this model converts into three machines. You can use it to clean hard floors as a stick vacuum. It also converts to a handheld device for furnishings and worktops. There’s even a crevice tool you can attach for this job.
The floor nozzle attaches to the handheld device, and you can use it on your stairs. It’s the right width to cover almost any step in one go.
Cord Wraps for Storage
Sometimes corded vacuum cleaners can be a bit of a hassle to store. But there are two cord wraps to keep the cables here neatly tucked away. This prevents it from getting tangled when you’re not using your vacuum.
What We Don't Like
No Brush Roll
We’re disappointed that this vacuum doesn’t have a brush roll. Some prefer to avoid these due to the risk of scratching wooden floors. But for most of us, it’s a plus to have.
Without one, this vacuum cleaner is probably not as effective on medium or long pile carpets.
Product Specs
| Weight | 3 pounds |
| Style | Stick |
| Cordless | No |
| Runtime | N/A |
| Handheld Conversion | Yes |
Our Ratings
Hoover Linx BH50010 Lightweight Stick Vacuum
Best Lightweight Vacuum for Edges
Have you noticed that dust, dirt, and pet hair gather in edges or corners? No need to worry. The Hoover Linx BH50010 has unique edge cleaning bristles.
This is a slick stick vacuum with three suction channels. The handle also reclines all the way back so that you can vacuum underneath furniture. It has swivel steering to glide around furnishings too.
The Hoover Linx BH50010 only weighs ten pounds, making it easy to move around. It has a wide cleaner mouth to capture dirt. Plus, there’s also a reusable, washable filter.
It’s bagless, with a dust canister that’s simple to empty into the trash. You’ll receive a two-year motor warranty with this product.
What We Like
Edge Cleaning Bristles
The dirt that gets stuck in the corners is often the most stubborn. There are edge cleaning bristles on the vacuum base to gather up dirt and debris. This is perfect for grabbing any dust you can’t usually reach.
Powerful Reach
Since this is a cordless vacuum, it gives you the freedom to move around your home. With a low-profile design, it easily reaches underneath the furniture, where most of the dirt accumulates.
Cordless Charging System
If you want to purchase a separate battery for uninterrupted cleaning, you can do so, and you will have a spare battery in case the other one runs out of power.
WindTunnel Technology
The patented WindTunnel technology is unique and powerful. It works for lifting embedded dirt from both carpets and hard floors.
So if you have a variety of flooring through your house, and kids or pets that drag in a lot of dirt, you might love this vacuum.
What We Don't Like
Troubles With the Charger
While not a common complaint, some customers have reported problems with the vacuum’s charger after only a short time.
Thankfully, the manufacturer has included a two-year warranty on this product. Should you face any issues, Hoover will help get them sorted.
Product Specs
| Weight | 10 pounds |
| Style | Stick |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Runtime | 15 to 20 minutes |
| Handheld Conversion | No |
Our Ratings
Dyson V7 Trigger Handheld Lightweight Vacuum
Best Lightweight Handheld Vacuum
If you’re searching for a handheld vacuum for around the house and beyond, look no further. This one from Dyson is cordless and lightweight, weighing only 3.77 pounds.
It has good suction from the digital V7 motor. Thanks to the lithium-ion battery, you can enjoy up to 30 minutes of cleaning time. There’s also a reusable HEPA filter to capture small dust particles.
The vacuum is compact for storage – it’s only 8.11 inches high and 5.17 inches wide. There are two speeds to choose from, and you use a trigger on the handle to activate the power. It comes with a two-year warranty from the manufacturer.
What We Like
Variety of Cleaning Tools
You can select from three different cleaning attachments based on your needs. These include the combination tool, mini motorized tool, and crevice tool.
The crevice tool is great for awkward gaps and edges. We love the combination tool for general dusting around the house.
If you have a dog or cat, you’ll love the third attachment – a mini motorized tool for collecting pet hair. It works great on furniture.
Large and Easy to Clean Canister
The dust canister is large for the size of the vacuum – it can hold up to 0.68 liters of dirt.
After cleaning, empty it using the hygienic dirt ejector. Pull the button upward, and the base of the dust canister ejects the debris. You don’t have to touch anything – it drops the contents straight into the trash.
Long 30 Minute Cleaning Time
For a cordless handheld vacuum, we are impressed with the cleaning time of the Dyson V7. It’s not unusual to find models that will run for only 15 or 20 minutes before needing a recharge. However, with this vacuum, you can constantly clean for up to 30 minutes, depending on your selected mode.
What We Don't Like
Small 4.8 Inch Cleaning Path
It may take a while to vacuum with this handheld. It only has a cleaning path of 4.8 inches – best for quick vacuuming tasks. This probably isn’t the machine you want to use for extensive jobs or deep cleaning.
Product Specs
| Weight | 3.77 pounds |
| Style | Handheld |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Runtime | 30 minutes |
| Handheld Conversion | N/A |
Our Ratings
Bissell Air Ram Cordless 1984 Vacuum
Easiest to Store Lightweight Vacuum
Vacuums can sometimes be bulky to store – but not this one. It folds down to make storage simple.
Weighing only 7.75 pounds, you can zip it around the home easily. It has a swivel design for steering and a lay-flat handle. It’s effortless to glide the vacuum underneath furniture and capture dust bunnies.
The 88-watt lithium-ion battery powers for up to 40 minutes of vacuuming time. The power indicator lights let you know when you need to recharge it.
We like the multi-surface brush roll and suction sweep technology. There are even LED lights on the vacuum head to shine the way in dark areas.
What We Like
Features Collapsible Handle
To make this vacuum more compact for storage, you can collapse the handle. You can then tuck it away neatly and save precious storage space.
Removable Battery for Recharging
If you don’t have a power outlet in your storage cupboard, you can remove the battery when it’s time for a recharge. You can then store the main device away out of view.
Just make sure your battery is ready for next time by charging it separately elsewhere.
Easy-to-Clean Canister
The 0.6-liter dirt cup is removable to simply tip dirt into the trash. It has an easy empty slider that pushes out the debris, so you don’t have to touch anything. You can keep it clean without worrying about getting dirty yourself.
Lay Flat Design for Getting Under Furniture
Who wants to crawl down on the floor to reach under furniture? Not us, that’s for sure. This vacuum can lay flat to the ground and fit beneath sofas, beds, and tables. The handle is also ergonomically designed for this task.
What We Don't Like
Doesn’t Convert to a Handheld
The Bissell Air Ram is the only stick model on our list that doesn’t convert to a handheld vacuum. This might be disappointing if you need to clean upholstery or worktops.
Product Specs
| Weight | 7.75 pounds |
| Style | Stick |
| Cordless | Yes |
| Runtime | 40 minutes |
| Handheld Conversion | No |
Our Ratings
| Product | Best | Weight | Style | Cordless | Runtime | Handheld Conversion |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eureka Stylus Stick | All Round | 6.4 lbs | Stick | Yes | 40 min | Yes |
| Shark Rocket | Longest Cord Length | 8.2 lbs | Stick | No | N/A | Yes |
| Dyson V10 | Longest Runtime | 5 lbs | Stick | Yes | 60 min | Yes |
| Bissell Featherweight | Featherweight | 3 lbs | Stick | No | N/A | Yes |
| Hoover Linx | For Edges | 10 lbs | Stick | Yes | 15-20 min | No |
| Dyson V7 Trigger | Handheld | 3.77 lbs | Handheld | Yes | 30 min | N/A |
| Bissell Air Ram | Easiest To Store | 7.75 lbs | Stick | Yes | 40 min | No |
Benefits of Lightweight Vacuums
There are some noteworthy reasons why we recommend a lightweight vacuum.
They Are Portable
If you struggle to lift your vacuum up the stairs, a lightweight model can help. Most stick and handheld vacuums weigh around three to eight pounds. This is a lot less than uprights and canisters, which can weigh closer to 16 pounds.
Plus, a lighter vacuum means portability. You’ll be able to transport it around the house without a problem. With some cordless models, you can even take them outside to clean your car.
Easier to Store
The two common types of lightweight vacuum cleaners are stick and handheld. Some available designs even combine both.
Most stick vacuums not only weigh less but are also slender and compact. This means they’re easier to store in small rooms or tight cupboards.
The same is true for handheld vacuums. You can put them up on a shelf where they’re easily accessible.
More Efficient Cleaning
When a vacuum feels light, you can glide it around easier and clean faster. You don’t have to put as much effort into it; it doesn’t feel like hard work. As a result, you will likely cover a larger area in less time than you could before.
Because it’s lightweight, you can also lift your vacuum to different heights. This enables you to clean ceilings, high shelves, or drapery. It’s also easier to get down low, even underneath your furniture — hard-to-reach spots become accessible.
Can Reduce Lower Back Pain
Using a lightweight vacuum and the proper cleaning technique helps prevent back pain. Often with heavier upright models, it can be tempting to push and pull with your arms while bending at the waist.
This movement can strain the muscles in your back, causing pain and discomfort (1).
So, the best thing you can do is choose a lighter vacuum and use it correctly. Keep your hips and shoulders moving as you vacuum, and avoid twisting your back. You can also step forward with one foot as you clean.
What to Look For
We think that weight is important for a vacuum. However, it’s not the only factor you should think about. There are a few other features to keep in mind.
Size
The size of a vacuum — not necessarily its weight — can make a difference. So, even if your “normal” vacuum isn’t that heavy, it might be problematic. In comparison, stick and handheld vacuums tend to be more compact, easier to handle, maneuver and store.
Power Input
One of the big choices you’ll have to make is whether the vacuum is corded or cordless. Both offer unique advantages. So, you’ll have to decide what makes the most sense for you.
Cordless vacuums tend to be more portable, with no power cord to restrict movement. But you’ll want to look for one with around 30 minutes to 60 minutes of runtime. Lithium-ion batteries usually power these. Make sure it’s fully charged before you use it.
Don’t Overcharge Your Vacuum
With a corded vacuum, however, there’s no need to recharge. You can enjoy constant power straight from the electrical outlet. In this case, though, you want to make sure that it has a long enough power cord for your needs.
Around 20 feet to 25 feet should be enough for most homes.
Motorized Brush Roll
If you have lots of rugs and carpets, look for a machine with a motorized brush roll. The rotating bristles agitate the carpet to pull out the dirt.
For a home that isn’t fully carpeted, look for a machine with a shutoff for the motorized brush roll. This will prevent the bristles from damaging hard floors.
Handheld Conversion
If you want to clean surfaces and upholstery, as well as flooring, look for a stick model that converts to a handheld. This makes your vacuum more versatile and even more portable.
We love this conversion for cleaning the stairs, upholstery, and car.
LED Lights
Do you have trouble seeing underneath furniture? Are there a lot of dark or shaded spots in your home? Additional lighting can help you clean more efficiently by letting you see what you might otherwise miss.
LED lights on the base can make a world of difference, brightening up those hard-to-see places.
Reputation
Sometimes, you do get what you pay for. So, if you’re looking for a reliable vacuum, it is best to stick with a trustworthy, well-known brand. We’re talking about names like Dyson, Shark, Bissell, and Hoover.
These companies specialize in vacuums and cleaning products, so extensive research is part of their development. Of course, a name does not equal a guarantee. But it’s often a way to reassure yourself that you’re getting a quality product for your money.
Warranty
Warranties are also important. Not all manufacturers offer warranties on their products. But when they do, it’s usually an indication that they trust the design of their models and are willing to back it up.
You can enjoy peace of mind knowing that the brand will repair or replace your machine if something goes wrong. One to five-year warranties are common for vacuums. Extended warranties might also be available for an additional cost.
Accessories
Whether you’re choosing a handheld vacuum or a stick with handheld conversion, you’ll want to consider the accessories.
Some manufacturers include extra cleaning tools that attach to the machine. They can also help you clean other things in your home beyond your floors.
1. Dusting Brush
For grabbing dirt and dust from worktops and tables, look for a vacuum with a dusting brush. This has soft bristles to lightly scrub away the debris. They may be rectangular or circular, with suction provided through the middle.
2. Extension Wand
An extension wand is a handy accessory for cleaning high or hard-to-reach spots. This gives you a way to vacuum drapes, upper shelves, and even ceilings. Some extension wands also have a fabric strip to capture lint.
3. Upholstery Tool
Look for an upholstery tool for cleaning sofas, mattresses, and other soft materials. This has bristles and a wide cleaning head to rub the fabric and remove any clinging dirt and debris.
4. Crevice Tool
Consider a vacuum with a crevice tool to get into corners, along edges, and into narrow spots. It looks like a long, thin pipe and concentrates the suction power to capture dirt.
5. Motorized Tool
Pets are notorious for shedding their fur, which sticks to everything and can be difficult to remove. Cleaning it is easier with a mini motorized tool. This allows good suction and can loosen and scrub away pet hair.
Swivel Steering
Upright vacuums are often rigid and inflexible. The machine moves back and forth – that’s it. It can crash into objects, and then you have to lift it awkwardly to change direction. This is one of the reasons some people don’t like using them.
In contrast, many stick vacuums have swivel steering. This allows the body of the machine to flex from side to side. You can glide around objects while staying on the same cleaning path.
Lay-Flat Design
Another drawback of traditional-style vacuums is that they aren’t the best for reaching underneath furniture. This leaves dirt and dust hiding in your home, which can aggravate your allergies.
Many stick vacuums, on the other hand, can lay flat. They can slide easily underneath low furnishings, grabbing all debris in its wake.
Some of these models have handles that both extend and fold. This allows the vacuum to lay flat without your having to crouch awkwardly. Choosing this feature will also help you avoid back injuries and uncomfortable positions.
Non-Marring Wheels
The wheels of some vacuum cleaners can leave streaks on your floor. These look like black skid marks and are the last thing you want when you’re cleaning your home.
Plastic wheels can be awful for this. They sometimes scratch the top layer of flooring when you move the vacuum cleaner.
To avoid this, look out for non-marring wheels designed to protect hardwood floors. Rubber wheels are also a good shout since they prevent dents and scratching (2).
Filtration System
If you suffer from seasonal allergies or are sensitive to dust, you will benefit from a good filtration system. Many vacuums include washable filters. These capture allergens and prevent them from recirculating back into the air.
The ones to look out for are HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters. They can trap contaminants in a mesh of tight fibers (3).
A HEPA filter can collect 99 percent of fine particles (4). This helps prevent sneezing and other unpleasant symptoms that you develop when exposed to allergens.
It’s also beneficial to look out for a double or triple filtration system. This ensures that dust and tiny contaminant particles don’t escape from the vacuum back into your air.
FAQs
Are Lightweight Vacuums Worth It?
Lightweight vacuums are worth it because they are easier to maneuver, powerful, and easy to store away. However, you do pay more for a lightweight vacuum cleaner.
What is the Best Lightweight Vacuum for Seniors?
The best lightweight vacuum for seniors is the Eureka Stylus with LED headlights. It has a 45-minute continuous runtime, converts to a handheld device for furniture, and only weighs 6.4 pounds.
What is the Best Lightweight Vacuum for Carpet?
The best lightweight vacuum for carpet is the Dyson V10 Animal. It uses cyclone technology to increase the suction power, it’s light, so it maneuvers across carpet easily, and it’s cordless.
Who Makes the Lightest Cordless Vacuum?
The lightest cordless vacuum is the Bissell Featherweight. It is a stick vacuum, a handheld, and only weighs three pounds.
Which Shark Vacuum is the Lightest?
The lightest Shark vacuum is the Shark ZS351 Rocket. It only weighs 8.8 pounds, making it ultra-lightweight. It tackles all floor surfaces and never loses suction because it is corded.
Which Dyson Vacuum is Lightest?
The Dyson V7 Trigger is the lightest vacuum in the Dyson range. It is a handheld, so you are limited on use, but it is ideal for the RV and getting into smaller spaces.
