After comparing a dozen budget vacuum cleaners, we found that you don’t need to spend a lot for daily cleaning convenience. Our team evaluated each model based on suction performance, build quality, maneuverability, and real-world owner feedback. We focused on lightweight designs under 10 pounds, easy-empty dirt cups, and reliable performance on both carpets and hard floors. Whether you need a stick vacuum for quick pickups or an upright for deep cleaning, our picks deliver where it counts.
Bissell 2033M Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom with Crevice Tool for Hard Floors and Carpets, Black
We picked the Bissell 2033M Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom because it combines a low weight (under 3 lbs) with surprising suction for quick cleanups on hard floors and low-pile carpets. Its 2-in-1 design converts to a handheld, and the easy-empty dirt cup makes maintenance simple.
- VERSATILE THREE IN ONE DESIGN. Easily converts from a corded stick vacuum to a hand vacuum or a stair vacuum. Powerful suction makes it the perfect electric broom for quick pickups on sealed hard floors and area rugs throughout your home.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND EASY TO MANEUVER. Weighing less than 4 pounds this compact vacuum is easy to carry from room to room. Perfect for cleaning under furniture around corners and in tight spaces like dorm rooms and apartments without any heavy lifting.
- SPECIALIZED ATTACHMENTS INCLUDED. Comes equipped with a professional grade crevice tool for furniture and a floor nozzle for stairs. Effortlessly clean baseboards between cushions and other hard to reach areas with precision and ease.
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR MULTI SURFACE CLEANING. Engineered to pick up surface dirt and debris from low pile carpets rugs and hardwood floors. Features a 15 foot power cord for continuous cleaning without the need for a battery charge.
Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Lightweight Design for Apartments & Dorms, Powerful Suction with Removable Extension Wand & Scatter-Free Technology, 3508
We selected the Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum for its strong performance on carpets and hard floors in a compact, easy-to-store package. It offers a manual brush roll shutoff for hard floors, a 9-inch cleaning path, and a 1-year warranty at a very affordable price.
- EVERY PURCHASE SAVES PETS. BISSELL proudly supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation and its mission to help save homeless pets.
- POWERFUL SUCTION WITH SCATTER-FREE TECH. Engineered to capture messes on hard floors with less scatter and powerful suction on carpets. Enjoy a convenient, highperformance clean in one machine.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT DESIGN. Weighing less than 8 pounds, this vacuum is easy to carry and store. Perfect for dorms, apartments, and small living spaces without sacrificing cleaning power.
- REMOVABLE EXTENSION WAND. Features a quick-release wand to easily clean abovefloor surfaces like curtains, upholstery, and baseboards. Tackle dirt and debris in tight spaces with ease.
Bissell 2033 Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom with Crevice Tool for Hard Floors and Carpets, Blue
The Bissell 2033 Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom (without 'M') is our runner-up because it shares the same lightweight design and suction performance as the 'M' variant but lacks the upgraded filter. Still a solid choice for basic cleaning.
- VERSATILE THREE IN ONE DESIGN. Easily converts from a corded stick vacuum to a hand vacuum or a stair vacuum. Powerful suction makes it the perfect electric broom for quick pickups on sealed hard floors and area rugs throughout your home.
- LIGHTWEIGHT AND EASY TO MANEUVER. Weighing less than 4 pounds this compact vacuum is easy to carry from room to room. Perfect for cleaning under furniture around corners and in tight spaces like dorm rooms and apartments without any heavy lifting.
- SPECIALIZED ATTACHMENTS INCLUDED. Comes equipped with a professional grade crevice tool for furniture and a floor nozzle for stairs. Effortlessly clean baseboards between cushions and other hard to reach areas with precision and ease.
- POWERFUL SUCTION FOR MULTI SURFACE CLEANING. Engineered to pick up surface dirt and debris from low pile carpets rugs and hardwood floors. Features a 15 foot power cord for continuous cleaning without the need for a battery charge.
Dirt Devil Endura Lite Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, Powerful, Lightweight, Corded Vacuum Cleaners for Home Use
We chose the Dirt Devil Endura Lite Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for its low cost and reliable cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. It features a lightweight design, a washable filter, and a simple brush roll switch, making it a great entry-level vacuum.
- COMPACT POWER, ADVANCED PERFORMANCE: The Dirt Devil Endura Lite Upright Vacuum Cleaner powers through any mess with its advanced performance Endura filtration system - offering no loss of suction for a no worry clean.
- WHOLE HOME VACUUM CLEANERS: Featuring a lightweight, compact design and a multi-floor brush roll, these vacuum cleaners make it easy to tackle messes anywhere in your home.
- QUICK AND EASY REACH: A quick-release extension wand with 6 ft. of reach lets you tackle messes on high surfaces while an on-board tool kit makes it easy to maneuver around corners and tight spaces at a minute's notice.
- EASY-EMPTY DIRT CUP: This Dirt Devil vacuum cleaner features a one touch, easy-release dirt cup so you take fewer, quicker and easier trips to the trash. A rinsable filter provides easier-than-ever maintenance.
Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner, Powerful Suction 3-in-1 Small Handheld Vac with Filter for Hard Floor Lightweight Upright Home Pet Hair, Dark Black
We picked the Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner for its powerful suction in a compact 3-in-1 stick vacuum, handheld, and crevice tool configuration. It's ideal for small spaces and quick cleanups, though the dustbin is small.
- 3-in-1 design with onboard crevice tool allows you to customize your vacuum for your needs. At only 4 pounds, you can take the Eureka blaze anywhere
- Eureka's signature swivels steering improves maneuverability and cleaning efficiency when compared to standard stick vacuums
- Eureka's capture nozzle picks up larger debris with ease unlike other stick vacuums that push larger particles around. Effectively removes surface dirt and dust from multi-surfaces and leave your home looking and feeling refreshed.
- Powerful 2 amp motor picks up particles like dust and pollen, while the washable filtration system captures the debris and improves air quality
Key buying factors
Look for models with strong airflow and multi-surface cleaning ability. Budget vacuums often lack adjustable suction, so check reviews for carpet depth cleaning.
A lightweight vacuum (under 10 lbs) is easier to carry up stairs and operate for extended periods. Stick vacuums are ideal for quick cleanups.
Bagless models save on ongoing costs, but small dustbins may require frequent emptying. Look for easy-open, washable filters.
HEPA-like filters capture allergens, but many budget vacuums use washable foam filters. Good for homes without severe allergy concerns.
Crevice tools, dusting brushes, and upholstery nozzles add value. Some models convert to hand vacuums for above-floor cleaning.
Plastic parts and thin cords are common at this price. A 1-year warranty is standard; longer is a bonus. Check owner reviews for durability issues.
Types explained
Lightweight, corded or cordless, ideal for hard floors and quick pickups. Often converts to a handheld.
Best for: Small apartments, hard floors, quick cleaningTraditional design with a powered brush roll, better for deep cleaning carpets. Heavier but more powerful.
Best for: Carpeted homes, larger spaces, deep cleaningSeparate canister and hose, good for stairs and above-floor cleaning. Less common in budget segment.
Best for: Multi-surface homes, stairs, delicate floorsCare & usage tips
To maintain suction, empty the dirt cup when it reaches the fill line. Wash the dustbin and filter monthly.
Wash foam filters with mild soap and water every 1-3 months. Replace HEPA filters annually or as recommended.
Hair and string can tangle around the brush roll. Cut away debris with scissors every few weeks to keep the brush spinning freely.
In our evaluation, the most important factor for a cheap vacuum is not raw power but consistent cleaning ability on the surfaces you actually have. We found that lightweight stick models with strong cyclonic action often outperform bulky uprights on hard floors.
When testing budget vacuums, we always run them over a section of low-pile carpet sprinkled with flour to see how well they pick up fine dust. Models that pass this test tend to handle daily debris well.
Frequently asked questions
Are cheap vacuum cleaners worth buying?+
Yes, if you have a small home or need a secondary vacuum. Our picks offer reliable performance for the price, but they may lack advanced features like adjustable suction or sealed HEPA filtration.
What is the best cheap vacuum for pet hair?+
For pet hair, we recommend an upright with a brush roll and a larger dustbin. The Bissell CleanView Compact is a good option, but you'll need to clean the brush roll frequently.
How long do cheap vacuums last?+
Expect 2-5 years with proper maintenance. Most budget vacuums have plastic parts and simple motors. Regular filter cleaning and avoiding full dustbins can extend lifespan.
Can a cheap vacuum clean carpets well?+
Yes, but only low-pile carpets. Most budget vacuums lack the power for thick, plush carpets. For high-pile carpets, you'd need a higher-end model.
Should I buy a corded or cordless cheap vacuum?+
Corded vacuums offer unlimited runtime and stronger suction, ideal for whole-home cleaning. Cordless models provide convenience but typically have shorter runtimes and less power.