Finding a compact vacuum that doesn’t compromise on suction can be tricky. Our team hands-on evaluated five popular models, focusing on portability, floor-cleaning performance, and ease of maintenance. We compared each against published specs and real-world owner feedback to help you choose. Whether you need a stick vacuum for quick pickups, an upright for small apartments, or a canister for above-floor cleaning, we’ve got a pick. Our top choice excels at versatility, while budget-friendly options still deliver solid cleaning power without breaking the bank.
Bissell 2033M Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom with Crevice Tool for Hard Floors and Carpets, Black
We chose the Bissell 2033M Featherweight Stick as Best Value because it offers a lightweight, bagless design with a motorized brush roll at a reasonable cost. It's easy to maneuver on hard floors and low-pile carpets, and the easy-empty dirt cup minimizes contact with dust. In our evaluation, it delivered solid suction for everyday messes and its slim profile stores conveniently.
- 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 2033 Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom with Crevice Tool for Hard Floors and Carpets, Blue
The Bissell 2033 Featherweight is nearly identical to the 2033M, but we found its slightly different accessory package makes it a close runner-up. It still provides the same core cleaning performance and lightweight handling. Our team appreciated the 'electric broom' feel for quick cleanups, though the brush roll may need occasional hair removal.
- 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.
Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister 2.5L Vacuum Cleaner, Lightweight Vac for Carpets and Hard Floors, NEN110A, Blue
We selected the Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister as Best Premium because its 2.5L dustbin is the largest among our picks, and the canister design offers superior above-floor cleaning versatility. The variable speed control and multi-surface nozzle impressed us. It's heavier than sticks, but the rolling base and long hose make it effortless for whole-home cleaning.
- Innovative Multi-Surface Vacuum: Deep clean with EUREKA whirlwind canister vacuum. Which features an integrated airflow control on the handle that can be easily switched at your fingertips. Suitable for: Carpet, Upholstery and Hard Floors. 960 watts.
- Lightweight And Easy To Maneuver: Eureka whirlwind lightweight vacuum cleaner weighs only 8.15 ponds, It can easily maneuver under and around furniture and stairs thanks to its swivel steering and telescoping metal Wand.
- 2.5L Dust Container, No Maintenance Costs: No bags or filters required. The whirlwind has a Bagless design and uses washable filters. Rinse the filters as needed and you’re ready to go
- 2-In-1 Integrated Crevice Tool: Eureka whirlwind features a crevice tool integrated into the hose handle. It’s at your fingertips whenever you need and will never get lost. Easily disconnect the handle from the hose and switch between a crevice tool and a dusting brush.
Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Lightweight Design for Apartments & Dorms, Powerful Suction with Removable Extension Wand & Scatter-Free Technology, 3508
Our pick for Best Overall, the Bissell CleanView Compact Upright, balances powerful suction with a lightweight, compact frame perfect for apartments. Its tangle-free brush roll excelled on carpets in our tests, and the easy-empty dirt tank is hygienic. We found the corded design ensures consistent suction without battery worry, making it the most reliable daily driver.
- 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.
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 chose the Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum as Best Budget because it delivers 3-in-1 functionality (stick, handheld, and crevice tool) at an accessible price. Despite its low weight, the suction surprised our team on hard floors. The washable filter and easy-empty bin add value. It's ideal for small spaces and quick pickups where budget is top of mind.
- 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
We looked for strong airflow and motor wattage. Models with higher suction handle embedded dirt better on carpets.
Bagless cyclonic or multi-stage filtration keeps fine dust trapped. We prioritized easy-to-empty, washable filters.
Under 10 pounds is ideal for quick cleanups. Swivel steering and low-profile heads reach under furniture.
Many models include brush roll on/off for hard floors. We considered carpet height adjustment and bare floor performance.
Larger bins (2+ liters) mean less frequent emptying. We checked how easy it is to detach and dump the cup.
Crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery nozzle add versatility. Some models include a specialized pet tool.
Types explained
Lightweight, cordless or corded, ideal for hard floors and quick messes. Often converts to handheld.
Best for: apartments, dorms, everyday spot cleaningSeparate canister and wand, good for above-floor cleaning. Typically bagless with larger dirt capacity.
Best for: stairs, upholstery, multi-surface homesTraditional design with motorized brush roll. Compact versions save space while maintaining carpet cleaning power.
Best for: carpeted areas, small houses, one-step cleaningTiny, portable for car interiors, furniture, and tight spots. Often included as convertible option in 3-in-1 sticks.
Best for: cars, sofas, keyboards, quick pickupsCare & usage tips
Prevents loss of suction and reduces allergens. Tap out debris from the filter every few empties.
Rinse foam or felt filters with cool water and air-dry completely before reinstalling. Never use detergent.
Inspect the brush roll weekly and remove hair, string, or fibers with scissors. Hair wrap reduces cleaning efficiency.
Our testing confirmed that lightweight doesn't have to mean weak suction; several models under 6 pounds matched performance of heavier uprights on bare floors.
For the best battery life on cordless models, always fully drain the battery before recharging and store at room temperature.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best small vacuum for pet hair?+
The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright is a strong choice due to its tangle-free brush roll and easy-empty dirt tank. For stick vacs, the Bissell Featherweight works well on low-pile carpets.
Are bagless vacuums better than bagged?+
Bagless vacuums offer convenience and lower ongoing cost since you never buy bags. However, they require more frequent filter cleaning and can release dust when emptying. For small homes, bagless is typically fine.
How important is HEPA filtration in a small vacuum?+
HEPA filtration is critical for allergy sufferers. Most small vacuums at this price point include a washable filter that traps 99% of particles. We recommend swapping to a HEPA filter if available.
Can I use a stick vacuum on thick carpets?+
Stick vacuums with a motorized brush roll can handle low to medium-pile carpets, but may struggle on high-pile or shag rugs. For thick carpets, an upright like the CleanView Compact is better.
How often should I replace the vacuum filter?+
Replace non-washable filters every 6-12 months. Washable filters should be cleaned monthly and replaced every 2-3 years or when they show wear.