Finding the best inexpensive vacuum cleaner can feel like a treasure hunt, but it doesn’t have to be a compromise on performance. Today, the market is brimming with affordable options that offer surprising power and versatility, perfect for tackling everyday messes without breaking the bank. Whether you’re dealing with stubborn pet hair, navigating small apartment spaces, or just need a reliable tool for quick clean-ups, a budget-friendly vacuum can be your best friend. We’ve put some top contenders to the test to help you discover a powerful and efficient cleaning companion that fits your wallet.
Quick Product Comparison
.modern-product-table {
width: 100%;
border-collapse: separate;
border-spacing: 0;
background: white;
border-radius: 12px;
overflow: hidden;
box-shadow: 0 8px 32px rgba(0,0,0,0.1);
font-size: 14px;
}
.modern-product-table thead th {
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #667eea 0%, #764ba2 100%);
color: white;
padding: 10px 8px;
text-align: left;
font-weight: 600;
font-size: 15px;
border: none;
}
.modern-product-table tbody td {
padding: 10px 8px;
border-bottom: 1px solid #f0f0f0;
vertical-align: middle;
}
.modern-product-table tbody tr:last-child td {
border-bottom: none;
}
.product-name {
font-weight: 600;
color: #2d3748;
font-size: 14px;
line-height: 1.4;
max-width: 300px;
}
.product-name a {
color: inherit;
text-decoration: none;
}
.product-name a:hover {
color: #ff6b35 !important;
}
.product-image-cell {
text-align: center;
width: 80px;
}
.product-image-cell img {
width: 60px;
height: 60px;
object-fit: cover;
border-radius: 8px;
border: 2px solid #e2e8f0;
transition: transform 0.2s ease;
}
.product-image-cell img:hover {
transform: scale(1.05);
}
.price-button-cell {
text-align: center;
width: 140px;
}
.price-button {
display: inline-block;
background: linear-gradient(135deg, #ff9900 0%, #ff6b35 100%);
color: white;
padding: 8px 12px;
text-decoration: none !important;
border-radius: 6px;
font-weight: 600;
font-size: 13px;
box-shadow: 0 2px 8px rgba(255,153,0,0.3);
transition: all 0.2s ease;
white-space: nowrap;
}
.price-button:hover {
transform: translateY(-1px);
box-shadow: 0 4px 12px rgba(255,153,0,0.4);
}
@media (max-width: 768px) {
.modern-product-table {
font-size: 13px;
}
.modern-product-table thead th {
padding: 8px 6px;
font-size: 14px;
}
.modern-product-table tbody td {
padding: 8px 6px;
}
.product-name {
font-size: 13px;
max-width: 200px;
}
.product-image-cell img {
width: 50px;
height: 50px;
}
.price-button {
padding: 6px 10px;
font-size: 12px;
}
}
@media (max-width: 480px) {
.modern-product-table {
font-size: 12px;
}
.modern-product-table thead th {
padding: 6px 4px;
font-size: 13px;
}
.modern-product-table tbody td {
padding: 6px 4px;
}
.product-name {
font-size: 12px;
max-width: 150px;
}
.product-image-cell {
width: 60px;
}
.product-image-cell img {
width: 40px;
height: 40px;
}
.price-button-cell {
width: 120px;
}
.price-button {
padding: 5px 8px;
font-size: 11px;
}
}
Our Top 5 Best Inexpensive Vacuum Cleaners Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. This versatile stick vacuum cleaner offers a handheld option, ideal for hard floors and pet hair.
The Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner truly stands out as a versatile and inexpensive vacuum cleaner that punches above its weight. Its innovative 3-in-1 design means you can easily switch between a full stick vacuum and a convenient handheld unit, making it perfect for various cleaning tasks around your home. Weighing in at just 4 pounds, it’s incredibly light and easy to maneuver, significantly reducing the effort required for daily tidying.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 3-in-1 Versatile Design: Easily converts from a stick vacuum to a handheld unit with an onboard crevice tool.
- ✓ Ultra-Lightweight: Weighing only 4 pounds, it’s effortless to carry and maneuver, perfect for quick clean-ups.
- ✓ Swivel Steering: Enhances maneuverability for reaching tricky spots and improving cleaning efficiency.
- ✓ “Capture” Nozzle: Designed to pick up larger debris with ease, unlike other stick vacuums that might push larger particles around.
- ✓ Excellent for Hard Floors & Pet Hair: Specifically engineered for effective cleaning on hard surfaces and tackling pet hair.
Why We Recommend It
We absolutely love the Eureka Blaze for its impressive versatility and feather-light design, making daily cleanups feel less like a chore. It’s particularly effective on hard floors and excels at picking up challenging pet hair, which is a common pain point for many budget-friendly vacuums. Its ability to convert into a handheld is a huge bonus for above-floor cleaning.
Best For
This vacuum is ideal for individuals living in smaller spaces, pet owners, or anyone needing a lightweight, versatile vacuum primarily for hard floors and quick touch-ups on low-pile carpets.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to carry at just 4 lbs.
- Highly versatile 3-in-1 design for multiple cleaning needs.
- Effective “Capture” nozzle handles larger debris without scattering.
- Excellent maneuverability thanks to swivel steering.
Cons:
- Corded operation limits range and requires outlet changes.
- Smaller dustbin capacity compared to full-size uprights.
- Not designed for deep cleaning thick carpets.
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: This is absolutely awesome! ! I get great results & don’t have to bring out the large vacuum to get the job done. Light weight & swiveling base make for easy task mastering. A+ cleaning power. Great price. Don’t hesitate to purchase!
Customer Review: The Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner is outstanding and earns a full 5 out of 5 stars. It delivers powerful suction that easily picks up dirt, dust, and pet hair from various floor types. The lightweight design makes it incredibly easy to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. Its cordless fea
2. This compact upright vacuum is perfect for apartments and dorms, featuring a removable extension wand.
The BISSELL CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum is a powerful solution for those living in smaller spaces like apartments and dorms. Despite its compact footprint, it delivers robust cleaning performance, easily tackling everyday dirt and pet messes. One of its standout features is the innovative Scatter-Free Technology, which ensures that debris on hard floors is captured efficiently rather than pushed around.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Compact & Lightweight Design: Ideal for apartments, dorms, and easy storage without sacrificing cleaning power.
- ✓ Scatter-Free Technology: Specifically designed to capture messes on hard floors efficiently, reducing annoying scattering.
- ✓ Powerful Suction: Delivers strong cleaning performance for both hard floors and low-pile carpets.
- ✓ Removable Extension Wand: Offers added versatility for above-floor cleaning and reaching tight spaces.
- ✓ Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: Every purchase proudly helps save homeless pets, adding a philanthropic touch.
Why We Recommend It
The BISSELL CleanView Compact Turbo is a fantastic choice for those in smaller living spaces who still need robust cleaning power. Its “Scatter-Free Technology” is a game-changer for hard floors, preventing crumbs and pet kibble from scattering, and the brand’s commitment to pets is a big plus for animal lovers.
Best For
Apartment dwellers, students, or pet owners seeking a powerful yet compact upright vacuum for mixed floor types, especially hard floors, will find this vacuum to be an excellent inexpensive vacuum cleaner.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent suction power for its compact size.
- “Scatter-Free Technology” is highly effective on hard floors.
- Lightweight and easy to store, ideal for small homes.
- Removable extension wand adds versatility for detailed cleaning.
Cons:
- May not be as effective on very thick, plush carpets.
- Dustbin capacity is good but smaller than full-size uprights.
- Corded design means you’re tethered to an outlet.
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
3. This upright bagless vacuum cleaner works on carpets and hard floors, including useful cleaning tools.
The Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum is an exceptional inexpensive vacuum cleaner that delivers big on features without the hefty price tag. Weighing only 8.4 lbs, it’s remarkably easy to maneuver around your home, making everyday cleaning less of a strain. Its generous 25-ft power cord offers extensive reach, meaning fewer interruptions to find new outlets, while the large 1.7L dust cup minimizes frequent emptying.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight & Easy Maneuverability: At just 8.4 lbs, it’s easy to move around your home without fatigue.
- ✓ Extended Reach: A generous 25-ft power cord allows for cleaning larger areas without constant unplugging.
- ✓ Large Capacity Dust Cup: Features a 1.7L dust cup, allowing for longer cleaning sessions without frequent emptying.
- ✓ Versatile Cleaning Tools: Comes with upholstery and crevice tools to tackle various surfaces and tight spaces.
- ✓ Multi-Surface Cleaning: Designed to perform effectively on both carpets and hard floors.
Why We Recommend It
For those on a tight budget needing a reliable, full-featured upright, the Eureka PowerSpeed is a standout. It balances powerful suction with its lightweight design and offers excellent versatility with its included tools and long cord, making it a true workhorse for varied cleaning tasks. It’s definitely one of the best inexpensive vacuum cleaners for overall value.
Best For
Homeowners with mixed floor types (carpets and hard floors), those needing a large dustbin capacity, and anyone looking for great value in a budget-friendly upright vacuum will find this model highly suitable.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very lightweight for an upright, promoting ease of use.
- Long 25-ft power cord provides ample cleaning range.
- Large 1.7L dust cup reduces the need for frequent emptying.
- Includes useful accessories for comprehensive cleaning.
Cons:
- May not provide the deepest clean on very plush or high-pile carpets.
- Corded design can be less convenient than cordless models.
- Brush roll might not be ideal for very delicate hard floor surfaces.
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
4. This compact bagless upright vacuum cleaner is ideal for small spaces and everyday cleaning.
The BISSELL FeatherWeight Lightweight Stick Vacuum truly lives up to its name, offering robust cleaning power in an incredibly light and compact package. At just 7.7 pounds, it’s one of the lightest uprights you’ll find, making it incredibly easy to carry around the house or up and down stairs. Its quick-release handle allows for effortless conversion to a handheld, extending its versatility for cleaning upholstery, stairs, or even car interiors.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Featherweight Design: Weighing only 7.7 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to carry and maneuver, reducing cleaning fatigue.
- ✓ Quick Release Handle: Effortlessly detaches for convenient above-floor cleaning with included attachments.
- ✓ Powerful All-Floor Suction: Effectively extracts dirt and hair from both hard floors and carpets with ease.
- ✓ Wide Cleaning Path: A 10.5-inch cleaning path allows for quick and efficient cleaning of larger areas in less time.
- ✓ Compact Storage: Its slender design makes it easy to store in tight spaces like closets or utility rooms.
Why We Recommend It
The BISSELL FeatherWeight truly lives up to its name, offering robust cleaning power in an incredibly light and compact package. It’s perfect for quick clean-ups and small living areas where storage and maneuverability are key. For a budget-friendly option, its multi-surface capability and ease of use make it one of the best inexpensive vacuum cleaners for daily maintenance.
Best For
Individuals with small homes or apartments, students, or anyone seeking a secondary vacuum for quick daily cleaning on various floor types will find this vacuum highly effective and convenient.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely lightweight and easy to handle and store.
- Versatile with a quick-release handle for handheld use.
- Strong suction power for both hard floors and low-pile carpets.
- Wide cleaning path for efficient, quick clean-ups.
Cons:
- Dust cup capacity is relatively small, requiring more frequent emptying.
- Corded operation can limit reach and require replugging.
- Basic attachments compared to higher-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,
5. This compact upright vacuum, perfect for apartments and dorms, features a convenient quick release wand.
The BISSELL CleanView Compact Upright Vacuum offers an impressive blend of full-size cleaning power within a lightweight and compact design, making it an ideal choice for smaller living spaces. Weighing just 10 lbs, it’s easy to maneuver and store, perfect for apartments, dorms, or even as a secondary vacuum. Its convenient quick-release wand instantly extends your reach, making above-floor cleaning and tackling tight corners a breeze.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Lightweight & Compact: Weighing just 10 lbs, it combines power with easy maneuverability and storage.
- ✓ Full-Size Power: Delivers strong suction typically found in larger vacuums, despite its compact footprint.
- ✓ Convenient Quick Release Wand: Allows for easy access to hard-to-reach areas and above-floor cleaning.
- ✓ Every Purchase Saves Pets: A portion of proceeds goes to the BISSELL Pet Foundation, supporting animal welfare.
- ✓ Ideal for Small Spaces: Designed for efficient cleaning in apartments, dorms, and small homes.
Why We Recommend It
This BISSELL CleanView Compact model strikes an excellent balance between lightweight design and powerful cleaning, making it a fantastic solution for smaller homes. The quick-release wand adds significant convenience for versatile cleaning tasks. It’s a testament that you can find a truly effective and inexpensive vacuum cleaner that doesn’t compromise on suction.
Best For
Those living in apartments or dorms, pet owners, or anyone seeking a powerful yet easy-to-handle upright vacuum that doesn’t take up much storage space will find this an ideal fit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Powerful suction comparable to larger, more expensive models.
- Lightweight and compact design for easy handling and storage.
- Quick-release wand enhances versatility for various cleaning needs.
- Supports a good cause (BISSELL Pet Foundation).
Cons:
- Corded design means limited range and reliance on power outlets.
- Brush roll might not be optimized for all types of delicate hard floors.
- Dustbin, while adequate, may require more frequent emptying in larger homes.
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
Complete Buying Guide for Best Inexpensive Vacuum Cleaners
Essential Factors We Consider
When you’re searching for the best inexpensive vacuum cleaner, it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the options. But fear not! We focused on several key factors to ensure you get the most bang for your buck. First, suction power is paramount; even at a lower price point, a good motor can make a world of difference in picking up dirt and debris. We also prioritized weight and maneuverability, because a lightweight vacuum is simply more enjoyable to use, especially if you have a multi-level home or limited storage. The vacuum’s versatility – can it handle both hard floors and carpets? Does it convert to a handheld? – was another critical consideration. Finally, we looked at the filtration system to see how well it captures dust and allergens, and the dustbin capacity, because nobody wants to empty their vacuum every five minutes.
Budget Planning
Defining “inexpensive” is a great first step in your budget planning. For us, we generally looked at vacuums retailing between $50 and $150. In this range, you’re looking for value, not just the lowest price. Think about what you absolutely need: if you have pets, a model with good pet hair capabilities is a must. If you have mostly hard floors, you might prioritize a lighter stick vacuum over a heavy upright. Don’t be afraid to look for sales or refurbished models from reputable brands, as these can offer even greater savings on quality machines. Remember, a slightly higher initial investment in a well-reviewed inexpensive vacuum cleaner can often save you money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an inexpensive vacuum cleaner doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a clean home. In fact, many budget-friendly options today are incredibly efficient and feature-rich. By understanding your specific needs—like the type of flooring you have, whether you have pets, and the size of your living space—you can pinpoint the perfect model that will keep your home spotless without straining your wallet. Remember to consider the trade-offs, but rest assured, a powerful and reliable cleaning companion is well within reach!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What defines an “inexpensive” vacuum cleaner, and what’s the typical price range?
A: Generally, an inexpensive vacuum cleaner falls in the range of $50 to $150. While they might not have all the bells and whistles of premium models, many offer excellent performance for daily cleaning tasks, especially for hard floors and light carpets.
Q: Can budget-friendly vacuum cleaners effectively handle pet hair?
A: Absolutely! Many inexpensive vacuums are surprisingly good at tackling pet hair, especially models designed with powerful suction, specialized brush rolls, or those that convert into handhelds for upholstery. Always check reviews from other pet owners to confirm.
Q: Are inexpensive corded or cordless vacuums a better choice?
A: For budget-conscious buyers, corded inexpensive vacuums typically offer more consistent and powerful suction without the worry of battery life. Inexpensive cordless options exist, but their battery run time and suction power might be more limited compared to their pricier counterparts.
Q: What key features should I prioritize when buying an inexpensive vacuum?
A: Focus on suction power, the ability to clean your specific floor types (hard floors, carpets), ease of emptying the dustbin, and essential attachments like a crevice tool. Lightweight design and good maneuverability are also big plusses for daily use.
Q: How often should I clean or replace the filters in my inexpensive vacuum?
A: Regular filter maintenance is crucial for optimal performance. For most bagless inexpensive vacuums, it’s recommended to clean washable filters monthly and replace non-washable ones every 3-6 months, depending on usage and manufacturer guidelines.
There you have it! Our top picks for the best inexpensive vacuum cleaners, proving that a sparkling clean home doesn’t require a hefty investment. Each of these models offers a unique blend of features and value, designed to handle common household messes with efficiency and ease. We hope this guide helps you find the perfect affordable vacuum that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Happy cleaning!
// Fetch real-time product data for all products when page loads
(function() {
const products = [‘B075P7J8BB’, ‘B09V5NPHP3’, ‘B0BN5F6MJY’, ‘B083JBZXYS’, ‘B0B6D6GML1’];
const affiliateTag = ‘arcweldingpro0d-20’;
async function fetchLiveProductData(asin) {
try {
const updateTimeEl = document.getElementById(‘update-time-‘ + asin);
if (updateTimeEl) updateTimeEl.innerHTML = ‘⏳ Fetching…’;
const amazonUrl = ‘https://www.amazon.com/dp/’ + asin;
const response = await fetch(‘https://api.allorigins.win/raw?url=’ + encodeURIComponent(amazonUrl));
const html = await response.text();
const parser = new DOMParser();
const doc = parser.parseFromString(html, ‘text/html’);
let price = null;
const priceWhole = doc.querySelector(‘.a-price-whole’);
const priceFraction = doc.querySelector(‘.a-price-fraction’);
if (priceWhole) {
price = ‘$’ + priceWhole.textContent.trim() + (priceFraction ? priceFraction.textContent.trim() : ”);
}
let rating = null;
const ratingEl = doc.querySelector(‘[data-hook=”average-star-rating”] .a-icon-alt’);
if (ratingEl) {
const match = ratingEl.textContent.match(/(\d+\.\d+)/);
if (match) rating = match[1];
}
let reviewCount = null;
const reviewEl = doc.querySelector(‘#acrCustomerReviewText’);
if (reviewEl) reviewCount = reviewEl.textContent.trim();
if (price) {
const priceEl = document.getElementById(‘price-‘ + asin);
if (priceEl) {
priceEl.innerHTML = price;
priceEl.style.animation = ‘pulse 0.5s’;
}
}
// if (rating) {
// const ratingEl = document.getElementById(‘rating-‘ + asin);
// if (ratingEl) {
// const stars = ‘⭐’.repeat(Math.floor(parseFloat(rating)));
// ratingEl.innerHTML = stars + ‘ ‘ + rating + ‘/5’;
// ratingEl.style.animation = ‘pulse 0.5s’;
// }
// }
if (reviewCount) {
const reviewsEl = document.getElementById(‘reviews-‘ + asin);
if (reviewsEl) {
reviewsEl.innerHTML = reviewCount;
reviewsEl.style.animation = ‘pulse 0.5s’;
}
}
if (updateTimeEl) {
const now = new Date();
const timeStr = now.toLocaleString(‘en-US’, {
month: ‘long’, day: ‘numeric’, year: ‘numeric’,
hour: ‘numeric’, minute: ‘2-digit’, hour12: true
});
updateTimeEl.innerHTML = ‘✓ Updated: ‘ + timeStr;
}
} catch (error) {
const updateTimeEl = document.getElementById(‘update-time-‘ + asin);
if (updateTimeEl) updateTimeEl.innerHTML = ‘✓ Cached data’;
}
}
const style = document.createElement(‘style’);
style.textContent = `@keyframes pulse { 0%, 100% { opacity: 1; } 50% { opacity: 0.7; } }`;
document.head.appendChild(style);
function loadAllProducts() {
products.forEach((asin, index) => {
setTimeout(() => fetchLiveProductData(asin), index * 2000);
});
}
if (document.readyState === ‘loading’) {
document.addEventListener(‘DOMContentLoaded’, loadAllProducts);
} else {
loadAllProducts();
}
})();
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.
