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10 Best Compact Handheld Vacuums 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum, 185AW, 3 Power Modes, Up to 60 Minutes,² Deep Cleans Hard Floors and Carpets, Detangles pet Hair, Converts to Handheld

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,296
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
2273 reviews

Suction Power
Great suction power typical of Dyson vacuums.
Battery Life
Battery life is sufficient for most users' needs, despite some concerns.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to use, especially for those with back problems.

The Dyson V11 Origin Cordless Vacuum offers strong performance for a compact handheld vacuum. It boasts impressive suction power, making it suitable for deep cleaning across various floor types. The battery life is commendable, offering up to 60 minutes of runtime, which is ideal for extended cleaning sessions without frequent recharges. The vacuum is relatively lightweight at 6.6 pounds, enhancing its portability and ease of use for different tasks like cleaning stairs, cars, or upholstery.

However, the dustbin capacity is somewhat limited at 0.2 gallons, which means it might require frequent emptying during larger cleaning jobs. The vacuum is equipped with multiple attachments, including a Motorbar cleaner head and Hair screw tool, which are particularly effective for picking up pet hair and long hair. Its HEPA filtration system is excellent for trapping fine particles, ensuring cleaner expelled air and making it suitable for homes with allergy sufferers. The noise level, rated at 70 dB, is moderate and should not be overly disruptive.

One of the standout features is the LCD screen that provides real-time information on power modes, maintenance alerts, and remaining runtime. The Dyson V11 Origin also supports three power modes, catering to different cleaning needs from everyday tasks to intensive spot cleaning. The vacuum's cordless design further adds to its convenience, allowing for unhindered movement throughout the home. While it comes with a higher price tag, the robust build quality, advanced features, and strong performance make it a valuable investment for those seeking versatile and efficient cleaning solutions.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,296
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
2273 reviews

Suction Power
Great suction power typical of Dyson vacuums.
Battery Life
Battery life is sufficient for most users' needs, despite some concerns.
Weight
Lightweight design makes it easy to use, especially for those with back problems.
#2

Shark | Pet Cordless Vacuum Cleaner | LED Headlights | Removable Handheld Vacuum for Pet Hair | Crevice Tool & Pet Multi-Tool Included | 40min Runtime | For Carpet & Hard Floors | Grey | IX141

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
11714 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum's high suction power is impressive, making it effective at cleaning everything from cat litter to large debris on carpets and mats.
Battery Life
Despite the need to use the 'high suction' trigger for maximum power, which drains the battery faster, the vacuum still manages to perform exceptionally well.
Weight
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, this vacuum excels at quick clean-ups, particularly in tight spaces and on stairs.
Dustbin Capacity
The easy-to-empty dust bin with a trap door at the bottom is a user-friendly feature, though the instructions could be clearer to prevent accidental spills.
Attachments and Accessories
Users appreciate the ease of switching between attachments, making it versatile for different cleaning tasks.
Noise Level
The vacuum is quieter than many other models, making it less disturbing for pets and more pleasant for users.

The Shark Pet Cordless Stick Vacuum provides strong suction power thanks to its HYPERVELOCITY SUCTION feature, making it effective for cleaning everyday messes and high-traffic areas. Its versatility in handling both carpets and hard floors is enhanced by the bristle brushroll and powerful suction. The vacuum has a runtime of up to 40 minutes on a single charge, which is suitable for most household cleaning tasks, though the runtime can vary based on usage and accessories attached.

Weighing 6.89 pounds, it is relatively lightweight and easy to maneuver, especially with its removable handheld vacuum option for above-floor cleaning. The XL dust cup with CleanTouch Dirt Ejector allows for easy disposal of debris without getting your hands dirty, although the dustbin capacity of 0.34 quarts may require frequent emptying during larger cleaning jobs. The inclusion of LED headlights helps to illuminate hidden debris, making cleaning more thorough.

The vacuum comes with a crevice tool, adding functionality for reaching tight spaces, and features HEPA and foam filters, which are great for capturing fine particles and allergens. However, the noise level of 80 dB is on the higher side and could be a bit loud for some users. Charging the lithium-ion battery takes about 240 minutes, which is relatively long but standard for cordless vacuums. The vacuum's low-profile design and freestanding storage options add convenience for both use and storage. This vacuum is a strong performer for those needing a versatile and powerful tool to tackle pet hair, carpets, and hard floors, albeit with some considerations regarding noise and dustbin capacity.

Rating
9.7
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
11714 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum's high suction power is impressive, making it effective at cleaning everything from cat litter to large debris on carpets and mats.
Battery Life
Despite the need to use the 'high suction' trigger for maximum power, which drains the battery faster, the vacuum still manages to perform exceptionally well.
Weight
Lightweight and easy to maneuver, this vacuum excels at quick clean-ups, particularly in tight spaces and on stairs.
Dustbin Capacity
The easy-to-empty dust bin with a trap door at the bottom is a user-friendly feature, though the instructions could be clearer to prevent accidental spills.
Attachments and Accessories
Users appreciate the ease of switching between attachments, making it versatile for different cleaning tasks.
Noise Level
The vacuum is quieter than many other models, making it less disturbing for pets and more pleasant for users.
#3

KMM Handheld Car Vacuum Cleaner, 9000Pa Vacuum Cleaner and Air Duster, 120W High Power Hand Held Vacuum with LED Light and Multi-Nozzles for Car, Home, Office, Pet

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Weight
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
10575 reviews

Suction Power
Delivers powerful suction that impresses given its small size, handling dirt and debris efficiently.
Weight
Compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to hold and maneuver for extended cleaning sessions.
Attachments and Accessories
Versatile with multiple attachments that allow cleaning of tight corners, upholstery, car interiors, and delicate surfaces.

The KMM Handheld Car Vacuum Cleaner is a lightweight and compact device, weighing just 0.72 lbs, making it easy to hold and carry around. It offers strong suction power at 9000Pa, which is good for picking up dirt and debris in cars, homes, and offices. The vacuum also doubles as an air duster, helping blow away dust from keyboards and tight spaces. The 4000mAh rechargeable battery provides up to 3 hours of use on a full charge, and it charges relatively fast in about 2.5 to 3 hours, which is convenient for regular cleaning sessions.

The vacuum includes multiple detachable nozzles to reach various surfaces, increasing its versatility. A washable HEPA filter is a nice feature, helping keep dust out and maintaining suction without frequent replacements. The built-in LED light is helpful for cleaning dark or hard-to-see areas. Noise level is moderate at 60 dB, quiet enough not to be disruptive. On the downside, while the vacuum is powerful for its size, it’s best suited for light to moderate cleaning jobs rather than deep cleaning larger spaces. Also, the dustbin capacity might require frequent emptying if used extensively.

This vacuum is a practical choice for those needing a portable, cordless cleaner for cars and small household tasks, especially where quiet operation and easy maintenance are priorities.

Rating
8.8
Suction Power
Weight
Attachments and Accessories

Most important from
10575 reviews

Suction Power
Delivers powerful suction that impresses given its small size, handling dirt and debris efficiently.
Weight
Compact and lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to hold and maneuver for extended cleaning sessions.
Attachments and Accessories
Versatile with multiple attachments that allow cleaning of tight corners, upholstery, car interiors, and delicate surfaces.

Buying Guide for the Best Compact Handheld Vacuums

When choosing a compact handheld vacuum, it's important to consider your specific needs and preferences. These vacuums are designed for quick clean-ups and are perfect for small spaces, cars, or spot cleaning. To find the best fit for you, focus on the key specifications that will impact the vacuum's performance and usability. Here are the main specs to consider and how to navigate them.
Suction PowerSuction power determines how effectively the vacuum can pick up dirt and debris. It's usually measured in air watts (AW) or volts (V). Higher suction power means better cleaning performance, especially on carpets and upholstery. For light cleaning tasks, a vacuum with lower suction power (around 15-20 AW) may suffice. For more demanding tasks, such as pet hair or larger debris, look for higher suction power (above 20 AW). Consider your cleaning needs to choose the right suction power.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the vacuum can operate on a single charge. This is crucial for cordless models. Battery life is typically measured in minutes. For quick, occasional clean-ups, a battery life of 10-15 minutes may be adequate. If you plan to use the vacuum for extended periods or larger areas, look for models with longer battery life (20 minutes or more). Think about how long you usually spend cleaning to determine the appropriate battery life for your needs.
WeightWeight affects the ease of use and portability of the vacuum. Lighter models are easier to maneuver and carry, especially for extended periods. Handheld vacuums typically weigh between 2 to 5 pounds. If you need a vacuum for quick, light tasks, a lighter model (around 2-3 pounds) will be more comfortable. For more intensive cleaning, a slightly heavier model (4-5 pounds) might offer better performance and durability. Consider how long you'll be using the vacuum and your ability to handle its weight.
Dustbin CapacityDustbin capacity refers to the amount of dirt and debris the vacuum can hold before needing to be emptied. It's usually measured in liters or ounces. Smaller capacities (around 0.3-0.5 liters) are suitable for quick, small clean-ups, while larger capacities (0.5 liters or more) are better for extended cleaning sessions. If you don't want to frequently empty the dustbin, opt for a larger capacity. Think about the typical size of your cleaning tasks to choose the right dustbin capacity.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories enhance the vacuum's versatility and effectiveness for different cleaning tasks. Common attachments include crevice tools, brush tools, and pet hair tools. If you need to clean tight spaces, a crevice tool is essential. For upholstery and delicate surfaces, a brush tool is useful. Pet owners should look for models with specialized pet hair tools. Consider the types of surfaces and areas you'll be cleaning to determine which attachments are necessary for you.
Filter TypeThe filter type affects the vacuum's ability to trap dust and allergens. Common filter types include standard filters, HEPA filters, and washable filters. HEPA filters are highly effective at capturing small particles and are ideal for allergy sufferers. Washable filters are convenient and cost-effective, as they can be reused. Standard filters are suitable for general cleaning tasks. Consider any allergies or sensitivities you have, as well as your preference for maintenance, to choose the right filter type.
Noise LevelNoise level is an important consideration if you prefer a quieter cleaning experience. It's usually measured in decibels (dB). Lower noise levels (around 60-70 dB) are more comfortable for prolonged use and less disruptive. Higher noise levels (above 70 dB) might be tolerable for short, quick clean-ups. If you have young children, pets, or prefer a quieter environment, look for models with lower noise levels. Think about your tolerance for noise and the typical cleaning environment to choose the right noise level.

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