10 Best Hand Held Vacuums 2026 in the United States

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 Dyson V8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is a robust choice for those seeking a convenient and powerful hand-held vacuum. Its strong suction power is ideal for quick and efficient cleaning, especially in homes with pets. The de-tangling Motorbar cleaner head effectively tackles pet hair and long hair, making it a great option for pet owners. Weighing just 5.6 pounds, it's lightweight and easy to maneuver, which makes cleaning less of a chore.

The vacuum offers up to 40 minutes of run time, which should be ample for most cleaning tasks, though it does require a 5-hour charge time, which might be long for some users. The 0.14-gallon dust capacity is modest, so frequent emptying might be necessary for larger cleaning jobs. It converts into a handheld vacuum, adding to its versatility for cleaning cars, stairs, and upholstery.

Four Dyson-engineered accessories enhance its functionality, and the advanced HEPA filtration system is effective at trapping dust and small particles, beneficial for allergy sufferers. Noise levels at 80 dB are moderate but could be a bit loud for some. With a 2-year warranty and lifetime support from Dyson, users can expect reliable service. The relatively high noise level and the longer charge time might be minor setbacks for some users.

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.