Finding the best and cheapest vacuum doesn’t mean compromising on cleanliness. In today’s market, many affordable vacuum cleaners offer surprisingly powerful suction and versatile features, making them perfect for tackling everyday messes without breaking the bank. Whether you live in a small apartment, need a secondary vacuum for quick cleanups, or simply want an effective cleaning solution on a budget, we’ve got you covered. We understand the struggle of balancing cost with performance, and that’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you top picks that deliver excellent value for your money. Let’s dive into our expert-tested recommendations that prove a sparkling clean home is within everyone’s reach, even on a tight budget.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best And Cheapest Vacuum Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Eureka Bagless Upright Vacuum for Carpet and Floor, Lightweight and Powerful Suction.
The Eureka Bagless Upright Vacuum stands out as a top contender for the best and cheapest vacuum, offering remarkable power despite its lightweight design. It’s engineered to handle both hard floors and carpets with ease, making it a versatile choice for any home. This vacuum truly redefines what you can expect from a budget-friendly option, providing robust suction that rivals more expensive models.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Effortlessly lifts dirt and pet hair from various surfaces.
- ✓ Lightweight & Easy Storage: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, it’s simple to carry and store in compact spaces.
- ✓ Quick Release Handle: Transforms for above-floor cleaning with included crevice tool and dusting brush.
- ✓ Bagless Design: Easy-to-empty dust cup eliminates the need for expensive replacement bags.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Eureka Bagless Upright for its impressive cleaning capabilities at an incredibly accessible price point. It performs like a much pricier vacuum, effectively tackling common household messes. Its lightweight nature also makes it ideal for anyone who finds heavier vacuums cumbersome, ensuring a comfortable cleaning experience.
Best For
This vacuum is best for households looking for a powerful, yet affordable, all-around cleaning solution for both carpets and hard floors, especially those needing easy portability and storage.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power for its price.
- Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Versatile for different floor types and above-floor cleaning.
- Washable filters reduce maintenance costs.
Cons:
- Corded design means you need to move outlets.
- Dustbin capacity might be small for very large homes.
- Some parts feel less durable compared to premium models.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I don’t do reviews very often. I got this on a Black Friday deal because I wanted something better than the tiny stick vac I was using in my unfinished basement. What I have now is like dust buster that pushes around like a vacuum cleaner but it takes forever and I have to do over spots multiple tim”
Customer Review: “For the price, definitely 5 stars.Pros:* Great suction power. We have a cat, so litter tracked out into the carpet is a never ending saga. This vacuum picked up nearly half a lb of litter the old Oreck XL (that this replaced) left behind!* Light weight with on board accessories.* WASHABLE filters,”
2. Bissell Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum with Crevice Tool, 2033M, Black
The Bissell Featherweight Stick is a phenomenal option for those seeking the best and cheapest vacuum for quick and easy cleanups. Its ingenious three-in-one design transforms from a stick vacuum to a handheld, making it incredibly versatile for various cleaning tasks. This lightweight bagless vacuum is perfect for small spaces and everyday messes, truly living up to its featherweight name.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3-in-1 Versatility: Functions as a stick, handle, or stair vacuum.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Surprisingly strong for quick pickups on both hard floors and carpets.
- ✓ Lightweight Design: Extremely easy to maneuver and carry around the house.
- ✓ Bagless Convenience: Simple to empty the dirt cup and maintain.
Why We Recommend It
We wholeheartedly recommend the Bissell Featherweight Stick for its outstanding versatility and user-friendly design. It’s an ideal solution for apartments, dorm rooms, or as a convenient secondary vacuum. The ability to switch between modes means you can tackle floors, stairs, and even upholstery with one compact tool, making it a true value for money.
Best For
This vacuum is best for individuals in smaller living spaces, students, or anyone needing a lightweight, versatile, and affordable vacuum for quick, daily cleanups and spot treatment.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable.
- Highly versatile 3-in-1 design.
- Great suction for daily use and small messes.
- Affordable and easy to store.
Cons:
- Not ideal for deep cleaning thick carpets.
- Corded operation can be limiting.
- Smaller dust cup requires frequent emptying.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am really surprised by how well this small, really lightweight vacuum performs. The suction is great – better than any cordless I’ve owned during the past 10 years. And it is lighter than any small vacuum I’ve owned. It is easy to assemble and clean, too. I’m really happy with this purchase. For s”
Customer Review: “The Featherweight Lightweight Bagless Vacuum has been a total game-changer for both me and my son. I keep mine in the bedroom for quick cleanups, and he has one at college — it’s that convenient and easy to use!It’s incredibly lightweight, easy to maneuver, and doesn’t take up much space. Despite it”
3. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Fits in Dorm Rooms & Apartments, Lightweight with Power…
For those living in smaller spaces like dorm rooms or apartments, the Bissell CleanView Compact Upright is an absolute gem among the best and cheapest vacuum options. This lightweight and powerful upright vacuum is specifically designed to offer effective cleaning without taking up much space. It demonstrates that you don’t need a bulky machine to achieve a thorough clean, making it incredibly practical for everyday use.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact & Lightweight Design: Ideal for small living areas and easy storage.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Provides efficient cleaning for various messes.
- ✓ Scatter-Free Technology: Designed to capture debris on hard floors with minimal scatter.
- ✓ Supports Pet Foundation: Every purchase helps homeless pets, adding a feel-good factor.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Bissell CleanView Compact because it perfectly balances power with a small footprint, an essential combination for apartment dwellers or anyone with limited storage. Its “scatter-free technology” is a thoughtful addition for hard floors, preventing debris from just spreading around. Plus, contributing to a good cause with your purchase is always a bonus!
Best For
This vacuum is best for residents of dorms, apartments, or small homes who need a powerful, compact, and affordable upright vacuum capable of handling both carpet and hard floor messes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction for its compact size.
- Very lightweight and easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Great value for money, a truly budget-friendly option.
- Effective on hard floors with less scatter.
Cons:
- Corded design limits reach.
- Might not have advanced features found in pricier models.
- Smaller capacity dustbin.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “After many years of faithful service, my old upright vacuum was forced into retirement. After a LOT of clicking around, reading reviews, and watching videos, I decided to give the Bissell CleanView Compact Turbo a try. It was very easy to set up right out of the box, and it really impressed me durin'”
Customer Review: “Very light weight and on the smaller size makes storing easyGreat cleaning powerThis little machine has a lot of suctionEasy to use and empty the dirt canisterGood quality and looks”
4. Amazon Basics 2-in
The Amazon Basics 2-in-1 Stick Vacuum proves that simplicity and affordability can go hand-in-hand with effective cleaning. This vacuum is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use option among the best and cheapest vacuum offerings. Its ability to transform from a stick to a handheld unit, complete with a crevice tool, makes it incredibly practical for diverse cleaning needs around your home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile 2-in-1 Design: Easily converts between stick and handheld modes for various cleaning tasks.
- ✓ Effective Cleaning Power: 300W motor provides consistent suction for hard floors and low-pile carpets.
- ✓ HEPA Filtration: Captures 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns for cleaner air.
- ✓ Lightweight and Maneuverable: At just 3.9 lbs, it’s incredibly easy to carry and navigate.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Amazon Basics 2-in-1 for its straightforward efficiency and excellent value. The HEPA filtration is a significant plus, especially for allergy sufferers, a feature often missing in this price range. It’s truly a grab-and-go solution for maintaining a tidy home without a hefty investment, embodying what a cheap vacuum should offer.
Best For
This vacuum is best for small apartments, dorms, or as a secondary vacuum for quick cleanups on hard floors and low-pile carpets, particularly for those sensitive to dust and allergens.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Transforms into a handheld for excellent versatility.
- Includes HEPA filtration for improved air quality.
- Very lightweight and easy to store.
- Good suction for everyday dirt on hard surfaces.
Cons:
- Not recommended for high-pile carpets.
- Corded operation limits movement.
- Basic accessories, might not suit specialized needs.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Very straight forward product, decent suction, good value for money. The cord length is enough for an average room. Assembly of product is very easy. The slim size of the body and vacuum part makes it reachable in tight spaces, which makes cleaning easier. Kids dropped it a few times and showed no s”
Customer Review: “This Amazon Basics 2-in-1 stick vacuum is a fantastic addition to my apartment. At just 3.9 lbs, it’s lightweight and maneuverable, making it a breeze to clean my bedroom, bathroom, and living room. The suction power is perfectly adequate for daily cleaning in smaller spaces.What I love most about t”
5. Intercleaner Corded Lightweight Vacuum, Bagless Stick Handheld with Powerful Suction for Pet Hair.
The Intercleaner Corded Lightweight Vacuum is a surprisingly robust option for pet owners seeking the best and cheapest vacuum to tackle pet hair and general debris. With its impressive 12-in-1 multifunctionality, this bagless stick vacuum comes equipped with numerous accessories to clean virtually every nook and cranny of your home. It’s a versatile and powerful cleaning partner, especially considering its budget-friendly price.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 12-in-1 Multifunctionality: Comes with 11 accessories for comprehensive cleaning versatility.
- ✓ Powerful 15KPa Suction: Features a brushless motor for strong suction, ideal for pet hair and various dirt.
- ✓ 16.4ft Extra Long Cord: Provides an extended cleaning range, reducing the need to frequently switch outlets.
- ✓ Bagless Design: Offers convenient and cost-effective maintenance.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Intercleaner Corded Lightweight Vacuum for its exceptional value, especially for pet owners. The powerful suction combined with the extensive array of attachments makes it a standout for comprehensive cleaning without a high price tag. The extra-long cord is a thoughtful feature that significantly improves the user experience, allowing for more continuous cleaning.
Best For
This vacuum is best for pet owners and those needing a highly versatile, affordable vacuum with strong suction for tackling pet hair, dust, and debris across multiple surfaces and hard-to-reach areas.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with 12-in-1 accessories.
- Strong suction power for pet hair and general cleaning.
- Extra-long cord provides great cleaning reach.
- Very affordable for the features offered.
Cons:
- Corded operation requires plugging and unplugging.
- Can be slightly louder than some premium models.
- Dust cup could be larger for very heavy-duty cleaning.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The media could not be loaded.I already have a vacuum cleaner. It’s a bit bigger and a little bulky, and it doesn’t have as many useful tools as this one does. I wanted something light that was powerful and would pick up everything. I read about this one and saw that it fit my requirements. The pr”
Customer Review: “This little vacuum is a must. Cheap and worth it. I’m not gonna lie when I unboxed it I was worried because it seemed very cheaply made but when I used it omg it stunned me. It works amazing. Picks up cat and dog hair like a champ! Works better than I’ve had in the past. You can go from cat litter o”
Complete Buying Guide for Best And Cheapest Vacuum
When searching for the best and cheapest vacuum, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of options. But finding a great deal doesn’t mean settling for poor performance. We’re here to walk you through the key considerations, ensuring you make an informed decision that perfectly suits your cleaning needs and budget. Think of this as your personal guide to smart vacuum shopping!
Essential Factors We Consider
To truly identify a vacuum that offers both quality and affordability, we focus on several crucial aspects. First, suction power is non-negotiable; even a cheap vacuum needs to pick up dirt effectively. We look for models with strong motors and efficient airflow. Next, versatility is key – can it handle different floor types, from hard floors to low-pile carpets? Attachments for crevices and upholstery add significant value. Weight and maneuverability are also important, especially for quick cleanups or if you have stairs. A lightweight design makes cleaning less of a chore. Lastly, consider the maintenance. Bagless designs with washable filters can save you money on ongoing costs, which is a big win for a budget-conscious purchase.
Budget Planning
The beauty of looking for the best and cheapest vacuum is that you’re already thinking smart about your finances. When planning your budget, remember that “cheap” doesn’t mean sacrificing core functionality. Many brands offer reliable models under $100, and sometimes even under $50, that are perfect for daily use in smaller homes. Focus on models that prioritize essential features over fancy extras. Look for sales events like Black Friday, Prime Day, or end-of-season clearances, where you can often snag even better deals. Always compare prices across different retailers, but keep an eye on shipping costs which can sometimes negate a good deal.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best and cheapest vacuum for you depends on your specific household needs. Are you battling pet hair, living in a studio apartment, or just need something for quick kitchen cleanups? By prioritizing suction, versatility, ease of use, and low maintenance, you can find an incredibly effective cleaning tool that fits your budget perfectly. Don’t let the price tag fool you; many affordable vacuums are designed to deliver powerful, reliable performance, making a clean home accessible to everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a cheap vacuum really be effective for pet hair?
A: Absolutely! While high-end models might have specialized pet tools, many affordable vacuums, especially stick or compact upright models with strong suction, can effectively pick up pet hair from hard floors and low-pile carpets. Look for reviews specifically mentioning pet hair performance when choosing a budget-friendly option.
Q: Are bagless vacuums better if I’m looking for a cheap option?
A: Yes, generally. Bagless vacuums save you money on recurring costs, as you don’t need to purchase replacement bags. While they require emptying and sometimes filter cleaning, this can be done easily, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice for a cheap vacuum.
Q: How often should I clean or replace the filters in a budget vacuum?
A: For most budget vacuums with washable filters, it’s recommended to clean them monthly or after every 4-6 uses, depending on how often you vacuum and the amount of debris. Non-washable filters should be replaced every 3-6 months. Regular maintenance ensures optimal suction and extends the life of your affordable vacuum.
Q: Are corded or cordless cheap vacuums better?
A: For sheer power and consistent suction at a lower price point, corded cheap vacuums often outperform their cordless counterparts. Cordless models offer convenience and portability but typically have shorter battery life and can be less powerful unless you invest in a more expensive option. If maximum power for your dollar is the goal, corded is usually the way to go.
Q: Can a lightweight, inexpensive vacuum handle stairs?
A: Yes, lightweight and inexpensive stick or handheld vacuums are often excellent for cleaning stairs. Their reduced weight makes them easy to carry up and down, and many come with attachments like crevice tools or brush nozzles that are perfect for tackling stair treads and risers. Some 2-in-1 stick vacuums even convert into a powerful handheld unit for this very purpose.
There you have it! Our comprehensive guide to finding the best and cheapest vacuum on the market. We truly believe that a clean home shouldn’t be a luxury, and with these fantastic budget-friendly options, it doesn’t have to be. Each vacuum on our list has proven its worth, offering reliable performance without straining your wallet. So, take another look at our top picks, consider your specific cleaning needs, and click on the “Check Price on Amazon” button for the one that calls to you. You’re just a few clicks away from a cleaner home and a happier wallet!
I’m Darrell Julian, the founder, lead writer, and hands-on welding enthusiast behind ArcWeldingPro.com. With more than 15 years of real-world welding experience, I created this platform to share what I’ve learned in the field, in the shop, and in the heat of the arc.
