Finding the best and cheapest vacuum that doesn’t compromise on cleaning power can feel like a treasure hunt. We all want a clean home without breaking the bank, right? The good news is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to get an effective vacuum cleaner. Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, everyday dust, or just need a reliable machine for quick clean-ups, there are fantastic budget-friendly options out there. We’ve dug deep, tested, and gathered our top picks to help you find an affordable vacuum that truly gets the job done.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 7 Best And Cheapest Vacuum Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Eureka AirSpeed Powerful Ultra-Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum for Carpets and Floors, with Filter.
The Eureka AirSpeed stands out as a top contender for the best and cheapest vacuum, offering remarkable suction and versatility for its price. This bagless upright vacuum is specifically designed to tackle dirt and pet hair on both carpets and hard floors with impressive efficiency. Its ultra-lightweight design makes it a breeze to maneuver around your home, ensuring that cleaning isn’t a strenuous chore.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Effortlessly extracts dirt and hair from various surfaces, making it great for mixed flooring.
- ✓ Quick Release Handle: Features a 10.5″ quick-release handle for easy above-floor cleaning, perfect for cobwebs or dusting.
- ✓ Onboard Tools: Comes with a crevice tool and dusting brush, which conveniently attach to the handle for extended reach.
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight & Compact: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, it’s easy to carry up stairs and stores compactly in small spaces.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Eureka AirSpeed for its powerful performance and incredible portability at an affordable price. It’s designed for hassle-free cleaning, letting you switch between floor types and reach high spots without a struggle. This vacuum proves that you don’t need a heavy, expensive machine to achieve a sparkling clean home.
Best For
This vacuum is best for individuals or families needing a lightweight, versatile, and budget-friendly solution for everyday cleaning across multiple floor types, especially those with pets.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power for its size and price point.
- Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Versatile with quick-release handle and onboard tools for various cleaning tasks.
- Bagless design simplifies emptying and reduces ongoing costs.
Cons:
- Smaller dust cup might require more frequent emptying in larger homes.
- Corded design means you’ll need to move plugs around.
- Might not be as durable as higher-end, heavier 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. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe Upright Vacuum: HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, Upholstery & Crevice Tools.
The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe is consistently praised for its powerful suction and versatile design, making it a fantastic contender for the best and cheapest vacuum in its class. This upright vacuum goes beyond basic floor cleaning with its innovative Lift-Away feature, allowing you to detach the canister for portable cleaning in hard-to-reach areas. It’s a true workhorse, especially for homes with pets or allergy sufferers.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Delivers deep-cleaning power for both plush carpets and bare floors, tackling embedded dirt and debris effectively.
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Easily detaches the canister with the push of a button, transforming it into a portable vacuum for stairs, upholstery, and under furniture.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology + HEPA Filter: Captures 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, making it ideal for allergy sufferers.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control for maneuvering around furniture and obstacles with ease.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Deluxe because it offers premium features typically found in more expensive models, but at a surprisingly accessible price point. Its ability to handle diverse cleaning tasks, combined with superior allergen filtration, makes it an outstanding value. It truly adapts to your cleaning needs, from floors to ceilings.
Best For
This vacuum is best for homes with pets, allergy sufferers, and those who need a versatile vacuum capable of both floor and above-floor cleaning without investing in multiple machines.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional suction power on multiple surfaces.
- Versatile Lift-Away feature for portable cleaning.
- Advanced HEPA filtration system for allergy relief.
- Easy maneuverability with swivel steering.
Cons:
- Can be slightly top-heavy in upright mode, though manageable.
- Might feel a bit bulky compared to stick vacuums when using attachments.
- The hose length could be longer for some specific high-reach tasks.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Warning, it’s a long read, but I wanted to go into deep detail.To start, I have been a Rainbow vacuum user for so long. I love them and felt they worked amazingly.Next, I have 3 dogs & a cat. One is a thick coat lab and the cat sheds so much as well.Another next, I have horrible allergies and wanted”
Customer Review: “I actually was in the market for a new vacuum as there were parts breaking on my Bissell 2999. (Dust buildup inside the motor housing leading to bearing whine, brush roller wear that required modification to prevent additional damage, as well as handle damage that prevented the vacuum handle from st”
3. Intercleaner Lightweight Corded Bagless Stick Vacuum for Pet Hair and Floors, Ultra Quiet.
If you’re hunting for the absolute best and cheapest vacuum that doesn’t skimp on features, the Intercleaner Lightweight Corded Stick Vacuum is a remarkable find. This ultra-quiet, bagless stick vacuum is designed to handle pet hair and various floor types with surprising power and versatility. Its compact design and extensive accessory kit make it a truly multifunctional cleaning companion for any home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 12-in-1 Multifunctionality: Comes with 11 versatile accessories that can be connected to adapt to a wide range of cleaning needs, from floors to crevices.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Equipped with a brushless motor providing up to 15KPa strong suction, capable of quickly cleaning various types of dirt and debris.
- ✓ 16.4ft Extra Long Cord: The generous power cable allows for a broad cleaning range, reducing the need to frequently switch outlets.
- ✓ Ultra Quiet Operation: Designed to minimize noise, making your cleaning experience more pleasant without disturbing others.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Intercleaner for anyone seeking maximum value on a tight budget. It genuinely surprised us with its robust suction and the sheer number of attachments, offering adaptability typically seen in much pricier models. Its quiet operation is an added bonus, making it a stress-free choice for daily tidying.
Best For
This vacuum is best for budget-conscious individuals or small apartments, pet owners, and those who need a versatile, quiet, and lightweight solution for various cleaning tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Outstanding versatility with 11 included accessories.
- Strong suction power for a budget stick vacuum.
- Quiet operation enhances the cleaning experience.
- Long power cord provides extended reach.
Cons:
- Corded design limits freedom of movement compared to cordless models.
- Dustbin capacity is smaller than traditional upright vacuums.
- Build quality might feel less premium than higher-priced alternatives.
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”
4. Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum, Lightweight with Powerful Suction for Small Spaces.
The Bissell CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum is a clever solution for those seeking a best and cheapest vacuum that truly delivers powerful cleaning without taking up much space. Designed with small homes and apartments in mind, this lightweight upright model doesn’t sacrifice suction power. It’s an ideal choice for quick clean-ups and maintaining pristine floors, especially on hard surfaces where scattered debris can be a nuisance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Offers robust cleaning performance in a compact form, effectively picking up dirt and debris.
- ✓ Scatter-Free Technology: Specifically designed to capture messes on hard floors with minimal scattering, keeping debris contained.
- ✓ Lightweight and Compact: Its featherlight design makes it easy to carry, maneuver, and store, perfect for smaller living areas.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of every purchase goes to help save homeless pets, adding a charitable aspect to your buy.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Bissell CleanView Compact for its straightforward, powerful cleaning capability in a small footprint. It’s a no-frills option that focuses on getting the job done efficiently, particularly impressive with its scatter-free technology on hard floors. Plus, supporting a good cause with your purchase is always a win!
Best For
This vacuum is best for individuals in smaller homes or apartments, college students, or anyone needing a lightweight and effective vacuum primarily for hard floors and light carpet cleaning, who also appreciates supporting pet charities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent powerful suction for its compact size.
- Scatter-Free Technology works well on hard floors.
- Extremely lightweight and easy to store.
- Supports a charitable cause.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for very deep pile carpets.
- Limited onboard attachments compared to some other models.
- Corded operation requires proximity to power outlets.
Customer Reviews
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”
Customer Review: “My old Bissell is 3 times the size of this one. I wasn’t happy when I first saw it. But I’ve used it awhile and it’s great. Lot’s of suction, easy to use, lite weight, not excessively loud, attachments work. I have a small apt with limited closets so this size fits great inside my closets. Well wor”
5. Amazon Basics Lightweight 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum with Handheld Mode and Washable HEPA Filter.
For those prioritizing ultimate versatility and value, the Amazon Basics Lightweight 2-in-1 Corded Stick Vacuum truly represents a best and cheapest vacuum option. This clever device seamlessly transitions from an upright stick vacuum to a compact handheld cleaner, making it perfect for quick floor sweeps and detailed cleaning tasks. With its washable HEPA filter, it also ensures cleaner air as you tidy your home.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Versatile 2-in-1 Design: Easily converts between stick and handheld modes, providing flexibility for cleaning various surfaces and areas.
- ✓ Effective 300W Motor: Delivers consistent and adequate suction power for hard floors and low-pile carpets, perfect for daily maintenance.
- ✓ Washable HEPA Filtration: The included HEPA filter captures 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns and larger, enhancing air quality in your home.
- ✓ Crevice Tool Included: Comes with an essential crevice tool for tackling tight corners, gaps, and upholstery.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Amazon Basics 2-in-1 because it’s a solid, no-frills option for those seeking a highly adaptable cleaning tool on a budget. Its dual functionality means you get two vacuums in one, and the washable HEPA filter is a fantastic bonus for the price. It’s a smart choice for general home cleanliness without breaking the bank.
Best For
This vacuum is best for small apartments, dorm rooms, quick clean-ups, and anyone looking for a lightweight, versatile, and very affordable vacuum for hard floors and low-pile carpets.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent value with 2-in-1 functionality.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver for everyday tasks.
- Washable HEPA filter contributes to cleaner air.
- Simple assembly and straightforward operation.
Cons:
- Not recommended for high-pile carpets or heavy-duty cleaning.
- Corded design may be less convenient than cordless models.
- Dustbin capacity is modest, requiring frequent emptying for larger areas.
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”
6. Eureka AirSpeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Easy Home Cleaning.
The Eureka AirSpeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright Vacuum cleaner is a smart choice for anyone seeking a highly effective yet incredibly manageable best and cheapest vacuum. This model is engineered for ease of use, featuring strong suction across all floor types and a design that makes home cleaning less of a chore. Its lightweight nature means it’s always ready for action, without being cumbersome.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Quick Release Handle: Designed for effortless above-floor cleaning, making it simple to attach tools for upholstery or ceiling corners.
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Effectively picks up dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets with a 10.5-inch wide cleaning path.
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight Design: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to carry and store, fitting into almost any space.
- ✓ Bagless Convenience: Features a bagless design for easy, mess-free emptying and no ongoing bag costs.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Eureka AirSpeed Ultra-Lightweight for its sheer convenience and powerful performance relative to its size and cost. It’s a reliable workhorse that doesn’t intimidate, making daily or weekly cleaning accessible for everyone. If you want a straightforward, effective, and easy-to-handle vacuum, this is a solid pick.
Best For
This vacuum is best for small to medium-sized homes, individuals who prefer a lightweight cleaning experience, and those who need a versatile vacuum for both carpets and hard floors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Remarkable suction power for a lightweight model.
- Extremely easy to carry and maneuver around the house.
- Effective on both hard floors and carpeted areas.
- Compact design allows for convenient storage.
Cons:
- Dust cup might need frequent emptying for heavy cleaning sessions.
- Corded operation limits range without unplugging and replugging.
- Plastic components may feel less robust than high-end 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, “
7. Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum for Carpet, Hard Floor, and Pets.
The Eureka PowerSpeed Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum is a robust contender for the best and cheapest vacuum, especially for households battling pet hair and needing powerful suction across diverse flooring. At just 10 pounds, it defies its lightweight nature by delivering impressive cleaning performance. This machine is built for convenience, from its strong motor to its extra-large dust cup, ensuring efficient and less interrupted cleaning sessions.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight Yet Powerful: Weighing only 10 pounds, it offers heavyweight cleaning performance that’s easy to carry and maneuver.
- ✓ Strong Suction Across Surfaces: A 960-watt motor provides consistent, powerful suction across various floor types, including hardwood, tile, and carpets.
- ✓ Extra-Large Dust Cup: Features a generous 2.6-liter capacity, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying.
- ✓ Quick and Mess-Free Emptying: The flip-to-empty dust bin design makes disposal of dirt and debris fast and hygienic.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Eureka PowerSpeed for its excellent balance of power, lightweight design, and capacity, all at an incredibly affordable price. It’s particularly effective for pet owners due to its strong suction and ability to handle various floor types. This vacuum offers reliable performance without the usual bulk or hefty price tag, making everyday cleaning simpler and more effective.
Best For
This vacuum is best for pet owners, families with mixed flooring, and anyone who needs a powerful yet lightweight upright vacuum that’s easy to use and maintain.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Impressive suction power for a lightweight upright.
- Handles pet hair and different floor types with ease.
- Extra-large dust cup reduces the frequency of emptying.
- Very easy to maneuver due to its light design.
Cons:
- Corded operation can be less convenient for large areas.
- Attachments might feel basic compared to premium models.
- Noise level could be a factor for some users.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “My previous vacuum was by a very popular brand, and it was expensive. It had every feature that you could imagine and worked as an upright, canister, and handheld unit. I had it for years and hated it. Why? Because it was very heavy, unwieldy, and bulky. None of the accessories were mounted on the”
Customer Review: “The Eureka Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice for anyone looking for strong suction, versatility, and ease of use at an affordable price. It performs well on multiple floor types, including carpets, hardwood, and tile. The vacuum is lightweight enough to maneuver comfortably, yet”
Complete Buying Guide for Best And Cheapest Vacuum
Finding the best and cheapest vacuum involves more than just picking the lowest price tag. It’s about smart shopping and understanding what truly matters for your cleaning needs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed decision and ensure you get the most bang for your buck.
Essential Factors We Consider
When searching for an affordable vacuum, you’ll want to balance performance with features. Here are the crucial elements we prioritize:
- Suction Power: This is paramount. Even a cheap vacuum needs to have decent suction to effectively pick up dirt, dust, and pet hair. Look for models with strong motors and efficient airflow.
- Filtration System: A good filter, ideally a HEPA filter or a washable filter, is vital, especially for allergy sufferers. Washable filters save money on replacements, contributing to the “cheapest” aspect.
- Weight and Maneuverability: A lightweight vacuum is easier to carry up stairs and navigate around furniture. Swivel steering also greatly improves maneuverability.
- Versatility: Can it clean multiple floor types? Does it convert to a handheld for above-floor cleaning? Onboard tools like crevice tools and dusting brushes add significant value.
- Cord Length: A longer cord means less unplugging and replugging, making your cleaning session more efficient.
- Bagless Design: Bagless vacuums save money on disposable bags, making them generally cheaper to operate long-term. Look for easy-to-empty dust cups.
- Ease of Maintenance: Consider how easy it is to clean the filter, empty the dustbin, and detangle hair from the brush roll. Low maintenance means less hassle and potentially longer lifespan.
Budget Planning
Stick to your budget, but don’t compromise on the core functionalities you need. Sometimes, spending a tiny bit more can get you a significant jump in performance or durability. Focus on reputable brands that offer entry-level models, as they often leverage proven technology from their higher-end lines. Always check for sales and seasonal discounts to snag an even better deal on a highly-rated cheap vacuum.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best and cheapest vacuum isn’t just about the initial cost; it’s about the long-term value it provides. A vacuum that performs well, is easy to maintain, and meets your specific cleaning needs without constant breakdowns will save you money and headaches in the long run. Prioritize suction, filtration, and versatility, and you’ll find a reliable cleaner that fits your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What features are most important in a best and cheapest vacuum?
A: The most important features are strong suction power for effective cleaning, a good filtration system (like washable HEPA filters), lightweight design for easy maneuverability, and versatility for different floor types and above-floor cleaning. These ensure you get great performance without a high price tag.
Q: Are budget vacuums good for pet hair?
A: Yes, many budget-friendly vacuums are surprisingly effective at tackling pet hair! Look for models specifically advertised for pet owners or those with strong motors and brush rolls designed to agitate carpets. Our list includes several great options for pet hair removal that won’t break the bank.
Q: How often should I clean my vacuum filter to maintain its performance?
A: For optimal performance and longevity of your cheap vacuum, you should clean or wash your filters regularly. If you have a washable filter, aim to clean it every 1-3 months, or more frequently if you vacuum often or have pets. Refer to your vacuum’s manual for specific cleaning instructions.
Q: What’s the difference between stick vacuums and upright vacuums in the budget category?
A: In the budget category, stick vacuums are typically lighter, more compact, and often convert into handheld units, making them great for quick clean-ups and small spaces. Upright vacuums, while still relatively lightweight in some budget models, generally offer stronger suction for deep carpet cleaning and larger dustbin capacities, making them suitable for more extensive cleaning tasks.
Q: Can a cheap vacuum last a long time?
A: With proper care and maintenance, a well-chosen cheap vacuum can certainly last for several years. Regularly cleaning filters, emptying dustbins, checking for blockages, and being mindful of how you use it can significantly extend its lifespan, ensuring your initial small investment goes a long way.
There you have it! Finding the best and cheapest vacuum doesn’t have to be a daunting task. Our top picks prove that powerful cleaning and versatile features are well within reach, even on a budget. Each of these vacuums offers excellent value, robust performance, and features designed to make your cleaning routine easier and more efficient. So go ahead, pick the perfect match for your home, and enjoy a cleaner space without emptying your wallet. Ready to transform your cleaning game? Click on your favorite model to check the latest prices on Amazon and get cleaning today!
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.
