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10 Best Compact Handheld Vacuums 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner, Car and Auto Detailer, with Exclusive Specialty Tools, Green, 1400B

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,496
Suction Power
Weight
Dustbin Capacity

Most important from
96096 reviews

Suction Power
The powerful suction makes it ideal for cleaning up spills and pet accidents.
Weight
Lightweight and portable design allows easy carrying without issues.
Dustbin Capacity
The 48 oz. tank capacity means fewer refills and extended cleaning sessions.

The BISSELL Little Green Multi-Purpose Portable Carpet and Upholstery Cleaner (1400B) stands out for its powerful suction, making it adept at removing tough pet stains and odors from carpets, upholstery, and car interiors. The inclusion of a large 48 oz. tank means you can clean more without frequent refills, enhancing its convenience for extended cleaning sessions.

Additionally, it comes with useful attachments like the HydroRinse Self-Cleaning Tool and a 3-inch Tough Stain Tool, making it versatile for various cleaning tasks. Its weight of 9.65 pounds is a bit on the heavier side for a handheld vacuum, which might make it less ideal for prolonged use. However, since it is corded, you don’t have to worry about battery life, ensuring consistent suction power throughout your cleaning tasks.

The device also supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation, which may appeal to pet owners. One downside is the noise level, as powerful suction often comes with increased noise. Also, being a corded device can limit mobility compared to cordless models. If you’re looking for a reliable and powerful handheld cleaner for pet-related messes and more, this model is worth considering, though its weight and cord might be potential drawbacks for some users.

Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,496
Suction Power
Weight
Dustbin Capacity

Most important from
96096 reviews

Suction Power
The powerful suction makes it ideal for cleaning up spills and pet accidents.
Weight
Lightweight and portable design allows easy carrying without issues.
Dustbin Capacity
The 48 oz. tank capacity means fewer refills and extended cleaning sessions.
#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
9.4
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
43878 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
9.4
Suction Power
Battery Life
Weight

Most important from
43878 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

Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum with LED Headlights, XL Dust Cup, Lightweight, Perfect for Pet Hair Pickup, Converts to a Hand Vacuum, with Pet Attachments, Bordeaux/Silver

Rating
9.2
Suction Power
Weight

Most important from
41554 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum's powerful suction can handle long human hair and pet hair effortlessly.
Weight
This vacuum is incredibly light and easy to use, even preferred by professional cleaning staff.

The Shark HV322 Rocket Deluxe Pro Corded Stick Vacuum excels in providing powerful suction, making it highly effective for deep carpet cleaning and pet hair pickup on various surfaces like stairs, furniture, and hard floors. Its ultra-lightweight design is a significant advantage, as it easily converts into a handheld vacuum for versatile cleaning from floor to ceiling. The included pet tools are particularly useful for pet owners, allowing them to capture embedded pet hair even in hard-to-reach areas.

The XL dust cup capacity of 0.68 quarts is adequate for extended cleaning sessions without frequent interruptions, and the LED headlights are a handy feature that reveals hidden debris and pet hair around the home. However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Since the vacuum is corded, it lacks the flexibility and convenience of cordless models. Additionally, the noise level is relatively high at 80 dB, which might be a concern for some users.

The vacuum's weight of 8.6 pounds, while lightweight for a stick vacuum, might still be cumbersome for some users when used as a handheld device. The dustbin capacity, though described as XL, may still require regular emptying during extended cleaning sessions. This model may not be the best fit for those looking for a cordless option or those sensitive to noise. However, pet owners and those in need of a powerful, versatile vacuum with specialized attachments might find it particularly beneficial.

Rating
9.2
Suction Power
Weight

Most important from
41554 reviews

Suction Power
The vacuum's powerful suction can handle long human hair and pet hair effortlessly.
Weight
This vacuum is incredibly light and easy to use, even preferred by professional cleaning staff.

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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