Most Powerful Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Types

• There are several types of cordless vacuums, and their suction power differs. Handheld, robotic and stick vacuums all use batteries or a charger to clean. A handheld vacuum charges and works best for smaller projects. Some models with more power also come with a cord option for longer jobs. Robotic vacuums move around the house on their own and vacuum debris. A stick vacuum is best suited for small jobs. It has a long handle and is typically run by batteries. These models often weigh less than 10 pounds and do not have much suction power. Robotic vacuums do not have the suction power of typical vacuums and tend to miss corners and some debris. A handheld vacuum, then, is the cordless choice that will yield the most power, as the user determines how much he needs to clean a particular area.

Brands

• Consumer Search cites the Black and Decker 18V Cordless Pivoting Hand Vac as its top pick for cordless models. This model is pricier, though, and costs about $90 as of time of publication. The charging unit is Energy Star certified, though, so some utility companies could have local rebates for the unit. The more budget-conscious consumer will be pleased with the Dirt Devil Extreme Power Hand Vac at about $40. This model has a flip-down crevice tool that creates more power for hard-to-reach areas.

  For $400, the Neato Robotics XV-11 cleans rooms on its own and has high power ratings. It also has a straight edge to effectively clean corners, though it has difficulty cleaning under furniture because of its height.

  Though stick vacuum cleaners aren’t typically known for their power, the Hoover Platinum Collection Cordless Stick Vac BH50010 uses an interchangeable lithium-ion battery, Consumer Search reports. This battery gives the machine extra power and lets it clean for 20 to 30 minutes, which is longer than other models.

What to Look For

• A cordless vacuum needs to be charged to run efficiently. When it comes to cordless vacuums, the higher the voltage of the charger, the higher the suction will typically be. Also, cordless models all have different running times. For instance, smaller handheld vacuums will often run for about 15 minutes. If your vacuum comes with a filter, changing it regularly will also increase the machine’s suction power.

Considerations

• The highest rated cordless vacuum cleaner isn’t necessarily the most expensive. Many vacuums on the market today boast high-tech features, yet some of the highest performers are less expensive models.