Finding the best cheap vacuum cleaner doesn’t mean sacrificing performance. In today’s market, many affordable options offer impressive suction, versatile cleaning capabilities, and user-friendly designs, proving that a sparkling home doesn’t require breaking the bank. Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, tackling hard floors, or just need a reliable everyday cleaner, our guide to the top cheap vacuum cleaners will help you find the perfect match for your budget and needs. We’ve put these models through their paces to highlight their strengths and help you make an informed decision.
Quick Product Comparison
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Our Top 5 Best Cheap Vacuum Cleaner Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Amazon Basics Lightweight Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors, with Tools.
For those seeking a versatile and affordable vacuum cleaner, the Amazon Basics Lightweight Bagless Upright is a fantastic contender. This model is designed for straightforward use on both carpeted and hard floors, offering a reliable clean without any fuss. Its thoughtful design ensures that everyday messes are handled efficiently, making it a strong choice for the best cheap vacuum cleaner category.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Easy Maneuverability: Weighing only 8.4 lbs and featuring a 25-ft power cord, it allows for effortless movement around your home.
- ✓ Versatile Cleaning Tools: Includes upholstery and crevice tools, making it easy to clean various surfaces and tight spaces.
- ✓ Large Capacity Dust Cup: A 1.7L dust cup minimizes the need for frequent emptying, perfect for longer cleaning sessions.
- ✓ Dual-Surface Cleaning: Effectively cleans both carpets and hard floors with strong suction.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend this Amazon Basics vacuum as a top cheap vacuum cleaner because it strikes an excellent balance between price and performance. Its lightweight build makes it easy for anyone to use, while the strong suction and included tools ensure a thorough clean across different floor types. It’s a no-frills, dependable option that gets the job done.
Best For
This vacuum is best for individuals or families looking for a straightforward, lightweight, and effective budget-friendly upright vacuum for everyday cleaning of both carpets and hard floors.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver.
- Strong suction power for its size, effective on multiple surfaces.
- Comes with useful attachments for detailed cleaning.
- Large dust cup reduces frequency of emptying.
Cons:
- Corded design limits reach and requires outlet changes.
- Basic features compared to more expensive models.
- Brushroll might struggle with very deep pile carpets.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Lightweight and easy to handle, this vacuum works well on both carpet and hard floors. Suction power is strong for its size, and the detachable handle with crevice and upholstery tools is very useful. The large dust cup and long cord add convenience for everyday cleaning.”
Customer Review: “Extremely easy clean up, not a lot of hidden Filters to clean just one filter. The section was extremely good. Bristol brush on spindlewheel are limited rows but they are firm to agitate the carpet fibers that have been compressed down due to traffic. So the strong suction can get deep within the co”
2. Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight Compact Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner. Perfect for Small Homes.
The Eureka Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight is a shining example of a cheap vacuum cleaner that punches above its weight. Designed with small homes and apartments in mind, it combines powerful suction with an incredibly lightweight and compact form factor. This makes it an ideal solution for those who need a capable cleaner without taking up much space or effort.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight Design: At just 7.7 pounds, it’s one of the lightest upright vacuums, making it super easy to carry and store.
- ✓ Quick Release Handle: Allows for effortless above-floor cleaning by simply detaching the handle and adding tools.
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Efficiently extracts dirt and pet hair from both hard floors and carpets.
- ✓ Compact & Space-Saving: Its small footprint ensures it can be stored virtually anywhere in your home.
Why We Recommend It
We’ve chosen the Eureka Airspeed as an Editor’s Choice for best cheap vacuum cleaner because it perfectly addresses the needs of smaller living spaces and budget-conscious buyers. Its impressive suction, coupled with its portability and versatility, make it an outstanding value. It proves you don’t need a bulky machine for a deep clean.
Best For
This affordable upright vacuum is best for residents of small homes, apartments, or anyone prioritizing a lightweight, easy-to-store vacuum that still offers strong cleaning power.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and compact, excellent for storage and mobility.
- Strong suction power, especially noted for picking up pet litter and hair.
- Quick release handle provides versatile above-floor cleaning.
- Features washable filters, reducing maintenance costs.
Cons:
- Smaller dust cup means more frequent emptying.
- 10.5-inch cleaning path might be narrow for larger rooms.
- Build quality might feel less robust than heavier, more expensive 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, “
3. Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors. Swivel Steering.
When it comes to finding the best cheap vacuum cleaner, the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light is a standout, especially for its versatility and powerful performance in a compact form. This corded bagless vacuum is a fantastic option if you need robust cleaning for both carpets and hard floors without the hefty price tag. Its lightweight design and ability to convert into a handheld unit make it incredibly adaptable for various cleaning tasks around the house.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight & Convertible: Weighing under 9 lbs, it easily transforms into a handheld vacuum for comprehensive floor-to-ceiling cleaning.
- ✓ Powerful Corded Suction: Delivers consistent, strong cleaning power for deep carpets and bare floors alike.
- ✓ Fingertip Controls: Effortlessly switch between cleaning modes for different surfaces right at your fingertips.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent maneuverability to navigate around furniture and tight spaces with ease.
Why We Recommend It
We highly recommend the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light as an exceptional budget vacuum because it offers premium features like powerful suction and versatile cleaning modes at an accessible price. Its ability to convert into a handheld is a huge plus for tackling stairs, upholstery, and cobwebs, giving you incredible value for money.
Best For
This affordable stick vacuum is best for homes with a mix of carpet and hard floors, especially those needing a lightweight, maneuverable solution that can also handle above-floor cleaning with ease.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight, making it easy to carry and use for extended periods.
- Converts quickly into a handheld vacuum for superior versatility.
- Powerful, consistent suction suitable for both carpets and hard floors.
- Excellent swivel steering for navigating obstacles.
Cons:
- Corded design means you’re tied to an outlet and must manage the cord.
- Can’t stand upright on its own, requiring leaning against a wall or lying down.
- Dust cup capacity is relatively smaller compared to traditional uprights.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I was genuinely surprised by the suction power of this lightweight Shark. It picks up pet hair from my rugs with no problem, and the swivel steering makes it super easy to get under furniture. Converting it to a handheld for my car was a game changer!”
Customer Review: “This is hands down the best value stick vacuum I’ve owned. It’s so light I can easily carry it upstairs, and the controls are right there when I need to switch from carpet to my kitchen tile. The cord is long enough for most rooms, though I do wish it could stand on its own.”
4. Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum with HEPA Filter, Swivel Steering, and Tools for Pet Hair.
For those dealing with pet hair and allergies on a budget, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away is often cited as the best cheap vacuum cleaner in its class. This upright vacuum boasts powerful suction and innovative features, including a HEPA filter and Lift-Away functionality, making it a highly effective and versatile tool for maintaining a clean and allergen-free home without spending a fortune.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lift-Away Functionality: Detach the pod to easily clean above-floor areas like stairs, furniture, and tight corners.
- ✓ Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA Filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum, ideal for allergy sufferers and pet owners.
- ✓ Brushroll Shutoff: Allows for an instant switch from deep carpet cleaning to gentle bare floor cleaning to prevent scattering debris.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Provides excellent control and easy maneuverability around obstacles and furniture.
- ✓ Pet Hair Tools: Comes with specialized attachments designed to effectively pick up embedded pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Shark Navigator Lift-Away as a top cheap vacuum cleaner for its powerful cleaning, especially for pet owners and those with allergies. The Lift-Away feature adds incredible versatility, allowing you to tackle almost any cleaning challenge. It offers premium features typically found in much more expensive models, making it a fantastic value.
Best For
This affordable upright vacuum is best for homes with pets, allergy sufferers, and those who need a versatile vacuum capable of deep cleaning carpets, hard floors, and above-floor surfaces.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent for homes with pets due to strong suction and specialized tools.
- HEPA filter and Anti-Allergen Seal system significantly reduce allergens.
- Lift-Away feature provides outstanding versatility for all cleaning tasks.
- Smooth swivel steering makes it easy to navigate around obstacles.
Cons:
- Can be heavier than stick vacuums, which might be a concern for some.
- Corded design requires plugging and unplugging between rooms.
- Attachments can sometimes feel cumbersome for quick, small jobs.
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”
5. Bissell Featherweight Stick Bagless Vacuum, an Ultra-Lightweight Cleaner with Included Crevice Tool.
The Bissell Featherweight Stick Bagless Vacuum truly embodies the spirit of a best cheap vacuum cleaner by offering remarkable convenience and versatility at an incredibly low price. This ultra-lightweight 3-in-1 cleaner is perfect for quick cleanups and smaller spaces, proving that you don’t need a heavy, expensive machine to keep your floors tidy. It’s a go-to for effortless daily maintenance.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight Design: Its incredibly light build makes it super easy to carry, maneuver, and store.
- ✓ 3-in-1 Versatility: Functions as a stick vacuum for floors, a handheld vacuum for surfaces, and a stair vacuum for elevated cleaning.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Delivers effective suction for quick pickups of dirt and debris on various surfaces.
- ✓ Bagless Convenience: Easy-to-empty dust cup means no bags to buy or replace, simplifying maintenance.
Why We Recommend It
We recommend the Bissell Featherweight as a fantastic cheap vacuum cleaner because of its incredible value and practical design. It’s perfect for those who need a no-fuss, easy-to-use vacuum for everyday spills and light cleaning. Its 3-in-1 functionality makes it surprisingly adaptable for such an affordable unit.
Best For
This budget-friendly stick vacuum is best for dorm rooms, small apartments, secondary cleaning in larger homes, or anyone needing a lightweight, portable vacuum for quick and frequent cleanups.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and portable, making it easy for anyone to use.
- Offers 3-in-1 versatility for cleaning floors, stairs, and above-surface areas.
- Surprisingly powerful suction for its size, great for quick daily tasks.
- Very affordable, offering excellent value for money.
Cons:
- Corded design can be less convenient than cordless options.
- Small dust cup requires frequent emptying during larger cleaning jobs.
- Not ideal for deep cleaning thick carpets or extensive pet hair.
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”
Complete Buying Guide for Best Cheap Vacuum Cleaner
Choosing the best cheap vacuum cleaner involves more than just looking at the price tag. It’s about finding a model that offers the right balance of features, performance, and durability for your specific cleaning needs. Our expert guide helps you navigate the options so you can make a smart, budget-friendly purchase.
Essential Factors We Consider
When evaluating affordable vacuum cleaners, we focus on several key areas to ensure you get the most bang for your buck:
- Suction Power: Even a budget vacuum needs to pick up dirt effectively. We look for models with robust suction for both surface debris and embedded grime.
- Versatility: Can it handle different floor types? Does it come with attachments for above-floor cleaning? A versatile cheap vacuum provides more value.
- Weight and Maneuverability: A lightweight design and smooth steering make cleaning less of a chore, especially in smaller spaces or for users who struggle with heavy appliances.
- Dustbin Capacity & Filtration: A decent-sized dust cup means less frequent emptying. Good filtration, like a HEPA filter, is crucial for allergy sufferers.
- Durability & Build Quality: While cheap vacuums aren’t built like tanks, we assess if they can withstand regular use without falling apart prematurely.
- Ease of Maintenance: Bagless designs and washable filters save money and time in the long run.
Budget Planning
It’s easy to get carried away with features, but remember the goal is a cheap vacuum cleaner that still performs. Set a firm budget and stick to it. Many excellent models are available in the $50-$150 range. Consider what your absolute must-have features are (e.g., pet hair capability, lightweight) and prioritize those. Don’t pay extra for bells and whistles you won’t use. Look for sales events like Black Friday or Prime Day for even better deals on quality affordable vacuum options.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best cheap vacuum cleaner is the one that best fits your home and lifestyle. Think about your floor types, whether you have pets, the size of your space, and how often you’ll be cleaning. Investing a little time in research, like reading our reviews, can save you a lot of frustration and ensure your purchase delivers on its promise of a clean home at a low cost. Remember, a good clean doesn’t always come with a high price tag!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a cheap vacuum cleaner really clean effectively?
A: Absolutely! Many cheap vacuum cleaners, especially the models we’ve reviewed, offer surprisingly powerful suction and effective cleaning capabilities for everyday dirt, dust, and pet hair. While they might lack some of the advanced features of high-end models, they are perfectly capable of keeping your home tidy.
Q: Are bagless cheap vacuums better than bagged ones?
A: It depends on your preference. Bagless affordable vacuums are generally more convenient and cost-effective since you don’t need to buy replacement bags. However, emptying them can release dust back into the air, which might be an issue for allergy sufferers. Bagged vacuums offer more hygienic disposal but incur ongoing bag costs.
Q: What’s the best cheap vacuum for pet hair?
A: For pet hair, look for cheap vacuum cleaners that specifically mention pet hair capabilities, often with specialized brushrolls or attachments. The Shark Navigator Lift-Away (Product #4) is an excellent example of an affordable vacuum highly effective against pet hair due to its strong suction and anti-allergen seal.
Q: How often should I clean or replace my cheap vacuum cleaner’s filters?
A: For most cheap bagless vacuums, it’s recommended to clean washable filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage. Non-washable filters or HEPA filters usually need to be replaced every 6-12 months. Always check your vacuum’s user manual for specific recommendations to maintain optimal performance.
Q: Are lightweight cheap vacuums less powerful?
A: Not necessarily. Modern technology allows for powerful motors in lightweight designs. While heavy-duty uprights might offer more raw power for deep carpet cleaning, many lightweight cheap vacuum cleaners provide ample suction for daily cleaning on both hard floors and low-to-medium pile carpets, making them highly efficient for most homes.
There you have it – our comprehensive guide to finding the best cheap vacuum cleaner for your home. We understand that a clean living space shouldn’t be a luxury, and with these affordable vacuum options, you can achieve sparkling results without draining your wallet. Each of these models offers unique benefits, proving that quality and performance are accessible even on a tight budget.
Ready to upgrade your cleaning routine? Click through to explore the details of our top picks and find the perfect cheap vacuum cleaner that suits your needs. Your cleaner home (and happier wallet!) awaits!
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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.
