10 Best Hand Held Vacuums 2026 in the United States

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum in Purple is a solid choice for pet owners. One of its key strengths is its 14V lithium ion battery, which provides strong suction power and is designed to tackle embedded pet hair and dirt with its motorized brush tool. The triple-level filtration system enhances cleaning performance by ensuring that dust and allergens are effectively captured.

Additionally, the vacuum is lightweight at just 3 pounds, making it easy to maneuver and use for extended periods without causing strain. The large dirt bin is designed for easy emptying, which is particularly useful when dealing with pet hair. This model comes with a useful set of attachments, including an upholstery tool, motorized brush tool, and crevice tool, which enhance its versatility for various cleaning tasks around the house.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The battery life is relatively short, with a runtime of only 17 minutes, which might not be sufficient for larger cleaning tasks. The charging time is quite long at 480 minutes (8 hours), meaning you need to plan ahead if you intend to use it frequently. Additionally, the dust capacity is moderate at 0.18 gallons, so frequent emptying might be required during use. In terms of noise, it operates at 70 dB, which is relatively standard for handheld vacuums but may still be noticeable in a quiet environment. It’s ideal for indoor use and can be particularly beneficial for pet owners needing a quick and efficient solution for pet hair cleanup. The purchase also supports a good cause, with a portion of sales benefiting the BISSELL pet foundation.

The Shark WV201 WANDVAC Handheld Vacuum is impressively lightweight at just 1.4 pounds, making it easy to handle and maneuver for various cleaning tasks. Its powerful suction is driven by a high-speed, brushless motor, which makes it effective for quick clean-ups, especially on carpets. With a battery runtime of about 10 minutes and a charging time of 150 minutes, it's best suited for short, targeted cleaning sessions rather than extensive cleaning.

The vacuum features a 0.08-quart dust cup, which is relatively small, meaning you'll need to empty it frequently during use. However, the single-touch empty feature makes it convenient to discard debris without getting your hands dirty. It also comes with washable fabric filters, which is a cost-saving benefit over time.

The included attachments, like the Multi-Surface Pet Tool and Duster Crevice Tool, enhance its versatility, making it useful for pet owners and those needing to clean tight spaces, such as cars. One downside is the noise level, which at 80 dB, can be quite loud. Additionally, the dust capacity might not be sufficient for larger cleaning jobs, and the limited battery life can be a drawback if you have a lot of ground to cover. This handheld vacuum is a great option for those needing a lightweight, easy-to-use device for quick and targeted cleaning tasks, especially in homes with pets.

The Shark CH951 UltraCyclone Pet Pro Plus is a lightweight handheld vacuum weighing just 2.8 pounds, making it easy to carry and use around the house. It offers strong suction thanks to its dual cyclonic air streams and an 8-amp motor, which helps clean up pet hair and debris effectively. The vacuum comes with a self-cleaning pet power brush that prevents hair from tangling, plus handy attachments like a crevice tool and scrubbing brush for tight spaces and stubborn dirt.

One downside is the battery life, which lasts about 10 minutes per charge and takes around 4 hours to recharge. This limits how long you can clean without waiting. The dust cup is extra-large for a handheld model at 0.11 gallons, so you can tackle bigger messes without frequent emptying. Disposal is made easy with the CleanTouch dirt ejector, which helps avoid contact with dirt. The washable filter is another plus, reducing ongoing costs and maintenance effort. Noise level is moderate at 80 decibels—not the quietest but typical for cordless handhelds. The vacuum only has one power level, so you won’t find adjustable suction settings.

This vacuum is ideal for pet owners or those needing a portable, effective tool for quick cleanups on floors, upholstery, and tight spots. However, its short runtime and single suction mode may not suit users requiring longer or more versatile cleaning sessions.