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The Dyson Gen5detect makes cleaning easy with its powerful suction and smart laser dirt detection.
The Dyson Gen5detect is an extraordinary addition to cordless vacuums.
Our test revealed impressive results, particularly when using the nozzle on hard floors. 🤩
With its powerful suction and ingenious features, this cordless vacuum effortlessly and efficiently gets the job done.
This cordless cleaner introduces an innovative dirt detection system that utilises a green laser.
This advanced vacuum technology brilliantly reveals invisible dirt, ensuring a thorough clean like never before. 🦠
While the overall handling of the Gen5detect is pleasant, one standout feature is its practical and straightforward emptying function.
Cleaning up after vacuuming becomes a breeze with its simple and intuitive design.
The Dyson Gen5 Detect stands out as an exceptional household assistant, showcasing powerful suction, innovative features, and user-friendly design.
Despite its higher price point than previous models, its unparalleled performance and top-notch quality make it a worthwhile investment. 💰
Rating Tool
Criteria | Rating | Comment |
Suction and cleaning performance | Top of the category | |
Design | 4.5 stars | Well thought out and high quality, but a bit heavy |
Scope of delivery | 4.5 stars | Less items included compared to its predecessors |
Handling | Practical and user-friendly | |
Maintenance | 4.5 stars | Easy and convenient, but the floor nozzle is a bit difficult to remove |
Battery | 4.5 stars | Runs longer but also takes longer to charge |
Price-performance ratio | Quality has a price |
Advantages
Excellent cleaning performance |
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Impressive suction power (262 AW) |
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Features laser technology for detecting dirt |
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Automatic suction adaptation based on the dirt |
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Analyses the amount and type of dirt collected |
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Incorporates an effective HEPA filter |
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Highly user-friendly with easy handling |
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Removable and replaceable battery |
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Performs exceptionally well in cleaning corners and ledges |
Disadvantages
Quite expensive |
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Laser functionality is limited to hard floor surfaces only |
The cordless and bagless 2-in-1 battery vacuum is super versatile in use. Whether it’s a hard floor or carpet, or even if you use it as a hand vacuum – NOTHING can stop this device.
The Dyson V15 has a whopping 230 air watts, which is the most powerful suction we have ever seen.
Thanks to over 60 minutes of runtime and three different power modes, the cordless vacuum achieves excellent cleaning results.
It even has an LCD display so that you can monitor the suction process.
And there’s more to it: The V15 constantly analyses the floor and the size and type of dirt.
The vacuum cleaner automatically adjusts the suction mode according to its analysis and does the work for you.
Dyson also upgraded the attachments. They’re now even more efficient in combating (pet) hair.
Hair can’t wrap itself around the brushes anymore, thus preventing blockages.
The revised Fluffy attachment for hard floors also has a green laser now. With this, you can see even fine dust particles and vacuum them directly.
Oops, Dyson did it again…
...The engineers put in the work and managed to top their existing devices off with even more innovative features and improved performance in the V15!
Advantages
Most substantial suction power (230 AW) |
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Automatic suction level adjustment (surface and type of dirt) |
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New laser technology in the Fluffy attachment to detect dirt |
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Interchangeable battery option |
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Over 60 minutes running time |
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Incl. torque drive floor nozzle + soft roller (Fluffy attachment) |
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Cordless & Bagless |
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Strong at cleaning skirting boards and corners |
Disadvantages
High-price |
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Laser only works on hard floors |
Powerful suction, top cleaning performance, high quality design - just a few words that perfectly describe this Shark cordless vacuum.
A favourite among fans of cordless vacuums in the UK, Shark now ups its game with the Stratos range. Read on to find out what makes these models so special! 👇
Outstanding cleaning performance
Whether corners, edges, carpets or hard floors...
The Shark Stratos left our floors spotless in our test! 💪
Not many vacuums can achieve this, which makes the Shark Stratos a real hot tip. 🔐
DuoClean Anti Hair Wrap Plus floorhead - perfect for all floor types
A real highlight of the Stratos cordless vacuums is the dual floorhead - two motorised brush rolls working together to tackle both hard floors and carpets.
The Anti-Hair Wrap Plus roll at the back draws out embedded dirt in carpets and deals with hair pick-up, while the front roll gets to work on hard floor dirt.
This really works flawlessly. And the highlight:
This means you don’t have to change the brush! 💃
Anti-Odour Technology
The Stratos range features anti-odour technology to deal with any nasty odours produced by pet dander and other dirt and dust. Just pop a cartridge into the dust bin and any unwanted smells are masked with a clean, fresh scent.
Perfect for those of us with more sensitive noses! 👃
Automatic suction level adjustment - Clean Sense IQ
Yes, you heard right:
The Stratos automatically adjusts its suction power according to the dirt and the floor type.
This saves battery and increases cleanliness. 💪
Speaking of saving battery power:
Despite very good runtimes, the Stratos IZ420UKT model also features an extra removable battery pack and thanks to a clever charger, you can charge two batteries at the same time.
Conclusion: Should you buy it?
So do we recommend buying a Shark Stratos cordless vacuum cleaner?
Yes, definitely!
In addition to the advantages mentioned above, Shark offers many other clever solutions.
The device will be a real help in your everyday work.
Advantages
Powerful cleaning performance |
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Strong suction power |
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High quality |
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Smart, unique floorhead (DuoClean) |
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Practical storage function |
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Long battery life |
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Stick and handheld vacuum in one |
Disadvantages
Not the quietest |
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Expensive |
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No HEPA filter |
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Heavier weight |
The Tineco Pure One S15 Pro excels in cleaning and offers a smart display.
Tineco has revamped their Pure One line with the S15 Pro, a cordless vacuum that has impressed in our tests.
Cleaning Test
The Tineco Pure One S15 Pro excels in its cleaning capabilities.
In our tests, it left hardly anything behind on both carpets and hard floors.
Its iLoop technology, which automatically adjusts the suction level based on the type of dirt, enhances its efficiency.
Display
A standout feature is the high-resolution LCD display. 📺
This provides real-time status updates, maintenance tips, and error messages.
It even plays animated videos, adding a unique touch to the vacuuming experience.
Storage
The S15 Pro comes with a convenient ground station for storage.
This allows the device to be stored and charged upright without the need for drilling holes for a wall mount.
Advantages
Excellent cleaning performance |
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Informative LCD screen |
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Smart suction power adaptation |
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Versatile usage, including as a handheld vacuum |
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Superior build quality |
Disadvantages
Plastic packaging used |
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No soft roller included for hard floors |
The latest model offers numerous smart innovations including a display, an app, and more, making it a significant upgrade from its predecessor.
The Vorwerk Kobold VK7 emerges as a versatile and innovative cordless vacuum cleaner.
Cleaning Performance
The cordless cleaner shows strong cleaning abilities, scoring 90% in endurance tests.
While it struggles slightly with larger piles of dirt, the boost function effectively tackles these challenges. 🦠
Its performance in everyday cleaning tasks is impeccable, ensuring thorough cleanliness.
Flexible to Use
This vacuum stands out for its versatility, thanks to a wide array of attachments and sets.
It includes:
- Mattress cleaning set
- Craftsman set
- Wischaufsatz SP7
It enhances its functionality across various cleaning scenarios.
Smart Features
The VK7 introduces smart elements including the MyKobold app and an aesthetically pleasing front display.
These features, along with its enhanced power and design, mark a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the VB100. 🔋
This adds both utility and style to the vacuum.
Advantages
Excellent everyday cleaning performance |
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Highly adaptable with numerous accessories |
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Slim design for easy access under furniture |
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Effective corner and edge cleaning |
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Premium build quality |
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Suitable for allergy sufferers |
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Enhanced cleaning with Boost mode |
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Functions as a vacuum mop (SPB100) |
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Stylish appearance |
Disadvantages
Premium pricing |
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Struggles with larger dirt piles |
With the PureOne S12, Tineco has brought the first truly smart cordless hoover onto the premium market. When cleaning your Smart Home, the cordless vacuum cleaner is supported by a smartphone app.
The TOPs of the Tineco S12
The cleaning performance
The S12 performed outstandingly in our cleaning test. No matter what we put in front of it...
...it sucked it up.
Perfect in the fight against pet hair?
The mini electric brush removes all kinds of hair from your upholstery.
Innovation
The Tineco S12 brings real innovation to the table. And we're not just talking about the fact that it's the first cordless hoover with an app...
...the filter cleaning system of the cordless vacuum cleaner is also really practical and well-thought-out.
The display
The display provides you with useful information and practical tips.
The wall mount/charging station
You think: A wall mount is old hat...
...not so with the Tineco S12: The wall holder charges the battery in the device and the spare battery via an additional compartment at the same time.
You can buy the Tineco PureOne S12 in two different versions:
the Pure One S12 and the Pure One S12 ProEx
The difference is that the ProEx comes with a few more accessories.
The Tineco Pure One S12 gets a clear buy recommendation from us!
Advantages
Excellent cleaning performance |
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Automatic filter cleaning tool |
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Spare pre-filter |
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Automatic suction mode |
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Replaceable battery included |
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Stylish design |
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Display |
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"Touchbar" for infinitely variable suction power control |
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Charging station/wall holder very well-thought-out |
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LEDs on the brush |
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App |
Disadvantages
Sometimes necessary to change soft roller and standard brush (depending on floor) |
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Packaging also contains plastic and polystyrene |
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Brush roller occasionally lifts off |
The slimmed-down version of the Dyson V15 impressed us in our review with strong suction power, top cleaning performance, lighter weight and a lockable power button! 🙌
The Dyson V12 Slim has a lot to offer.
Cleaning performance
Although Dyson has cut back on the suction power, the V12 still packs 150 airwatts. This brings it close to the power of its predecessor - the Dyson V10.
The cutback didn’t get in the way of the hoover in our cleaning test.
Whether on carpet or hard floor, the cordless Dyson vacuum left hardly any dirt behind.
Handy and compact in design
Quite a bit smaller than the V15, it feels much more compact when held.
This becomes especially noticeable when using it as a handheld vacuum.
Vacuuming furniture and the ceiling with only one hand? No problem!
Illuminated Cleaner Head: Laser dirt detection for advanced cleaning
A new, updated nozzle specially designed for hard floors:
The Illuminated cleaner head.
Such a practical innovation! 🚀
The lockable power button
The first V-series cordless vacuum cleaner with a lockable power button.
Many of you will be thinking: finally!
Press it once and the V12 runs until the battery is empty or until you press it again.
Conclusion on the Dyson V12 Slim
A really high-quality and powerful product with many practical innovations. 🚂
We recommend the V12 Slim for small to medium-sized homes in particular, and, of course, for all Dyson fans who have always wanted a cordless vacuum cleaner with a lockable button (made by Dyson). 😉
Advantages:
Strong cleaning performance |
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Very handy |
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Laser dirt detection |
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Lightweight |
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Good battery life |
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Very flexible to use (2-in-1 battery storage) |
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Lockable power button |
Disadvantages:
Small dust bin size |
The Tineco Pure One S12 Pro Ex stands out as the first genuinely smart cordless vacuum in the premium segment, enhanced by smartphone app support for a seamless cleaning experience.
The Tineco Pure One S12 Pro Ex demonstrates excellent performance in cordless vacuum cleaner tests.
Cleaning Performance
Its cleaning capabilities are impressive, effortlessly handling all types of debris, especially animal hair. 🐶
The mini electric brush is also good at removing hair from upholstery.
Innovation
Innovation is a key strength of the S12.
It's not just the first cordless vacuum with an app integration, but its filter cleaning system is also notably practical and well-designed.
The display on the Tineco S12 is designed to provide users with useful and practical tips, adding to the ease of use.
Wall mount and charging station
The wall mount and charging station are thoughtfully designed.
The wall mount serves a dual purpose by charging both the battery in the device and a spare battery in an extra compartment.
Overall, the vacuum cleaner excels in cleaning performance, innovative features, and a user-friendly design.
Advantages
Efficiently handles various types of debris |
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Mini electric brush excels in removing pet hair from furniture |
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Wireless vacuum with app functionality |
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Two batteries included, ensuring longer usage time |
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Charges both the vacuum and a spare battery |
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Wide range of accessories for different cleaning needs |
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Automatically detects dirt levels and adjusts suction |
Disadvantages
More expensive compared to other models |
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May require more upkeep due to advanced technology |
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Numerous accessories require ample storage space |
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Charging the battery can be tricky if the dock is not wall-mounted |
Dyson brought the suction performance of its V-series to the next level with the V11. On top of that, they also equipped it with innovative technology, a practical display and an exchangeable battery.
The latest model from Dyson is also the best. Dyson UK continuously improves its devices, and the most recent model from 2020 has a surprise in stock for us.
Now you can click out the battery of the device and put in a charged one. You can double up the runtime with a few simple steps.
Tops of the Dyson V11
Battery Life
The battery life is about 60 minutes, which is the best runtime among Dyson's cordless vacuums. It should be more than enough for most households.
You can even extend or double the runtime thanks to the click system.
New and Smart
Dyson equipped the V11 with a practical LCD screen. The display helps to monitor the device and shows useful information.
Intelligent Adjustment of Suction Power
The new Dyson V11 recognises the surface and adjusts the suction power accordingly. That improves the cleaning performance and prolongs the battery life, as it saves battery power.
Exceptional Suction Power
The V11 brought the most powerful suction to the table of all the devices that we tested. The suction power was so strong that we removed more dirt from the carpet than we had spread.
The suction power of the 2020 model is even at 220 AW in boost mode.
You can read the full Dyson V11 Absolute review here.
Which Dyson V11 from 2020 is the best?
There are currently 3 variants of Dyson V11 from 2020 on the market:
- Dyson V11 Extra
- Dyson V11 Extra Pro and
- Dyson V11 Extra +
- Dyson V11 Outsize
The difference between the first three is only in the delivery scope.
Attention: Please always compare the current prices, as Dyson often changes the offers.
The Dyson V11 Outsize
However, the Outsize has a couple of innovations in stock:
As the name suggests, it has a different size. The dirt container has a capacity of 1.2 l, which is almost 500 ml larger than before.
The floor brush is also 25 % wider.
Thanks to these features, you’ll be done much faster if you clean with the Outsize ☺ It’s also particularly suitable for larger areas.
Which Dyson V11 is your best choice?
We recommend the Dyson V11 Absolute
- For all those who have to vacuum a lot of hard floors because it includes the soft floor nozzle. That cleaner head does a great job when cleaning hard floors.
- For all those who have many different floor types because the Absolute Extra’s Torque-Drive floor nozzle of the V11 comes in very handy here.
Only the Extra Pro has even more features, like the docking station for storage. But YOU have to dig a little deeper into your pocket for that.
Advantages
New automatic floor roller |
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New LED display |
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Over one-hour battery power |
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Very powerful suction |
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Much quieter |
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Battery is replaceable |
Disadvantages
About 400 grams heavier than its predecessor |
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Power button not lockable |
Its mopping function makes it an exceptional cordless vacuum cleaner. It can hoover and mop the floor at the same time: Win Win!
The performance of the Speedpro was good - especially for a cordless hoover.
You can tell that Philips has put thought into the mopping system, as it simply works better than many others.
The manufacturing is very high quality.
Thanks to the magnetic connection, you can release the mop head with your foot and switch directly from hard floor to carpet by attaching the brush roll.
You can also regulate the amount of water with the foot via a pedal.
The collection of dirt was excellent in our test.
Advantages
Outstanding cleaning performance |
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Can vacuum and mop (3 in 1) |
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It can be used as a hand vacuum |
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Display with runtime |
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Weight |
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Volume |
Disadvantages
Connections a bit stiff |
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Empty function |
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Charging time |
Why you can trust our reviews
Before we get into the details, let’s explain what our reviews can offer you and why to trust us.
Getting an overview of this huge range of products can be difficult, and investing your money in the wrong cordless hoover would be a disaster.
However, we have good news for you:
We can help you make the right choice with our in-depth reviews and cordless vacuum cleaner comparisons. 🏋️
What we do: We conduct comprehensive cordless vacuum cleaner tests and provide the results to you free of charge!
Our goal:
We want to help you find the best cordless vacuum cleaner by giving you independent and professional advice.
So if you're in the market for a new cordless vacuum, you've come to the right place! 🙏
Here’s a quick look at what’s to come:
- A comparison of the best cordless vacuums (2022)
- Which? Best Buy cordless vacuum reviews: top picks
- Advantages of a cordless vacuum cleaner
- Where cordless vacuums still have room for improvement
- Different applications for cordless vacuums
- Popular cordless vacuum brands
- What to consider when buying a cordless hoover
Comparison of the best cordless vacuums
Model | Dyson V15 Detect |
Dyson V12 Slim |
Dyson V11 Outsize | Dyson V11 Absolute (2020) | Tineco Pure One S12 | Miele Triflex HX1 | Dyson V10 Absolute | Dreame V11 | Dyson V8 | Dyson V7 |
Rating | ||||||||||
Suction power | 230 AW | 150 AW | 220 AW | 220 AW | 150 AW | 170 AW | 150 AW | 150 AW | 115 AW | 100 AW |
Maximum runtime | >60 min | Up to 62 min | Up to 60 min | Up to 60 min | Up to 96 min | Up to 60 min | Up to 60 min | Up to 45 min | Up to 40 min | Up to 30 min |
Charging time | 4.5 h | 4 h | 4.5 h | 4.5 h | 3.5 h | 4 h | 4.5 h | 4 h | 5 h | 3.5 h |
Automatic adjustment to different floor types | ✅ | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Dust bin capacity | 0.76 l | 0.35 l | 1.2 l | 0.76 l | 0.6 l | 0.5 l | 0.76 l | 0.5 l | 0.54 l | 0.54 l |
Suitable for carpets and hard floors | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
2-in-1 function | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
3-in-1 function | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Mopping ability | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Removable battery | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Bagless | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
HEPA filter | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
Display | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ |
App | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ |
Weight | 3.1 kg | 2.3 kg | 3.5 kg | 3.05 kg | 3.0 kg | 3.7 kg | 2.7 kg | 2.9 kg | 2.63 kg | 2.3 kg |
Volume in normal mode |
Approx. 70 dB |
75 dB | Approx. 70 dB | Approx. 70 dB | Approx. 69 dB | Approx. 72 dB | Approx. 80 dB | Approx. 72 dB | Approx. 75 dB | Approx. 80 dB |
Advantages and disadvantages |
+ Best cleaning performance + Laser dirt detection + Dirt analysis + Emptying function
- Expensive |
+ Lockable power button + Strong cleaning performance + Laser dust detection + Very good for smaller and medium-sized homes + Handy
- Dirt tank size |
+ Strong cleaning performance + Extra large dirt bin + Extra large floor head + Automatic floor adjustment + LCD screen + Replaceable battery + Very flexible
- Weight |
+ Strong cleaning performance + Automatic floor adjustment + Display + Replaceable battery +Very flexible |
+ Very good cleaning performance + Lots of new features + Automatic filter cleaning tool +Well thought-out charging station |
+ 3-in-1 function + Self- standing + Good cleaning performance
-Weight |
+ Very good cleaning performance + Very good emptying function + User- friendly
- No display - Weight |
+ Affordable + Many accessories + Good workmanship + Display - Poor carpet cleaning - No removable battery -Difficult to manoeuvre - No "standard brush" for carpets |
+ Decent suction power+ Cleaning power + User friendly - Long charging time - Difficulties with coarse dirt on hard floors - only 8 minutes in turbo mode |
+ Good cleaning results + Affordable - No longer available everywhere - Difficulties with coarse dirt on hard floors |
Check Amazon | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* | Offer* |
Which? Best Buys for cordless vacuum cleaners in the UK
The best cordless hoovers are on their way to overtaking traditional corded hoovers and making them obsolete.
This is also reason enough for Which? to take a closer look at some of the most popular devices and rank them.
Corded vs Cordless vacuum cleaners
Which? has dared to compare corded and cordless vacuum cleaners, with many different factors considered.
The disadvantages of cordless hoovers compared to corded kinds were battery life, dust capacity, wall mounts and maintenance.
When comparing their choice of best cordless vacuum against their best corded vacuum, the dust pick-up was 83% and 86% respectively. A pretty impressive result! 🚀
Best cordless vacuum cleaners 2022
The results are in from Which? on their favourite cordless vac of 2022: Their choice for the best overall model is the Miele Triflex HX2.
With a score of 86%, they praise the vacuum’s cleaning ability on carpets and between floorboards. They also mention the fact that it keeps all dust and allergen stored inside - great for those with allergies.
Its ease of use on all floor types was praised, while the lack of lockable power button knocks off some points. Read our review here.
The suction power of the Dyson V11 was also outstanding in our own test. The cordless hoover even sucked out more than 100% of the sand from our test carpet (leftover from previous tests, despite thorough cleaning).
Suitability for allergy sufferers was considered particularly good, as the dust retention function works very well. 🤩
The independent consumer organisation’s choice for best cordless vacuum for larger homes is the Dyson Outsize Absolute, which scores 83%. The larger dust container and cleanerhead are what really pipped competitors to the post in the Which? review.
Why buy a cordless vacuum?
The main difference between cordless hoovers and conventional hoovers is that they do not need to be plugged in at the wall while cleaning. Once the batteries are charged, you can start cleaning to your heart’s content.
What was once done by a broom can now be done much more conveniently with a cordless hoover.
The best products on the market today can be used for every type of dirt and achieve very good cleaning results.
Who needs a cordless vacuum?
Simple question, simple answer:
Nobody. 😬
But if you like to vacuum your home regularly, then a good cordless hoover will be a real asset for you. The right tool can save you a lot of time and hassle, as the best cordless stick vacuums are simply 10x more practical than conventional corded hoovers. 💪
Can cordless vacuums replace conventional hoovers?
For some years now, the battle has been raging between conventional corded vacuums and modern cordless vacuums.
Many people planning to buy a new hoover ask themselves whether they should buy a conventional device or opt for more modern technology.
People are creatures of habit, and many still tend to use the old corded models out of uncertainty. As a result, they continue to put up with the weaknesses and disadvantages of these hoovers and torment themselves with tangled cables and expensive, dusty bags.
We have good news: you can put an end to it!
Cordless vacuums are now much better than their reputation. Previous weaknesses, such as insufficient battery life or poor suction power, are no longer an issue with good devices.
We find the advantages of cordless vacuum cleaners now far outweigh the disadvantages - and these advantages are exactly why we opt for cordless.
Advantages of cordless vacuums
So what exactly is it that makes cordless vacuums so popular? There are many reasons for this.
Advantages at a glance
- More convenient
- Easy handling
- Space-saving storage
- Flexible use
- 2-in-1 function (stick and handheld in one)
- Low follow-up costs
- Cord-free
- Bagless
- Environmentally friendly
Vacuum cleaning doesn’t tend to rank highly on people’s lists of favourite activities. Cables that aren’t long enough, tangled cable, bag full, vacuum cleaner falls over - the list goes on.
All that is history when you are the proud owner of a cordless, bagless and modern cordless hoover.
What makes cordless vacuum cleaners more convenient?
You can walk comfortably from room to room without having to worry about tangled cables any more. Not even stairs can hold you up any longer.
In the past, you’d always run out of vacuum bags right when you needed one most…
...that's also history. Most cordless vacuums come with handy dust containers that you can simply empty.
Space-saving storage
Most cordless vacuum cleaners come with a practical wall mount.
When you're done vacuuming, you can place it in the corner or hang it on the wall to save space. The slim designs also help to save space.
If you don't necessarily want to drill holes in the wall for your cordless vacuum cleaner, you can also get a practical floor stand.
You can also usually store all the accessories in these charging docks.
Flexibility: 2-in-1 function
Cordless vacuums normally come with plenty of accessories included in the box to increase the ways in which you can use your device.
You can convert modern cordless hoovers into compact cordless handheld vacuums.
This makes vacuuming your car or hoovering your furniture a cinch. Cordless vacuums are so versatile!
Follow-up costs
You can really save on follow-up costs with a bagless cordless device. These savings are no joke - the cost of buying hoover bags over the years can really add up.
The cost of replacing filters is also eliminated. Your wallet will thank you here too!
Sustainability
Bagless and filterless are not only good for your wallet, they also help to avoid unnecessary waste and protect the environment.
Where do cordless hoovers still have room for improvement?
Of course, we know cordless vacuum cleaners aren’t perfect in every regard. There are still some areas to watch out for when shopping for your cordless vacuum.
Battery life
The best cordless vacuum cleaners offer runtimes of up to 90 minutes. That should be easily enough for a thorough cleaning of an average flat.
Once you run out of battery, that’s it for floor cleaning until it’s recharged.
As such, runtime is a critical factor among cordless hoovers. However, this is no longer an issue among top cordless models in the UK.
Make sure to pay attention to battery life when shopping for your cordless vacuum.
Some brands claim their runtimes are enormous. However, if you take a closer look, you will notice that these times apply to cleaning in a power-saving mode, for example. Thus, you may only be able to clean in normal mode for a much more limited time.
That’s where our reviews come in: We sort the good from the bad so you’re totally clear about which models really have a longer battery life.
Cleaning performance
The cleaning performance of many models leaves a lot to be desired. That is why we strongly recommend:
Read the reviews beforehand!
This way you can avoid buying the wrong model.
What to look out for when buying a cordless vacuum
Choosing the right cordless stick vacuum cleaner is an important decision, because the choice you make now will affect how efficiently and conveniently you’ll be able to clean your home for years to come.
The great thing about cordless hoovers is that they’re always ready to go (no untangling of cables etc.).
This also means we’ll use our vacuum cleaner much more often, making it all the more important for you to choose the right one.
So make sure you make an informed decision when buying.
Here’s a quick summary of what you should look out for when buying a cordless vacuum cleaner.
What to consider before buying
- Not all cordless vacuum cleaners are made equal. They can differ considerably in quality and, above all, cleaning performance. An independent review can protect you from making the wrong decision.
- Battery life is a critical factor. Good cordless hoovers have a runtime between 40 and 90 minutes.
- The tools are versatile, but some tools are better for certain types of cleaning. What do you need?
- How much cash are you willing to spend?
Which is the best cordless vacuum for me? 10 tips for making your decision
We want you to feel confident when shopping for your cordless vacuum, so we’ve compiled a watertight buying guide for you to follow.
The guide will contain a number of categories we deem to be the most important when shopping for a cordless vacuum:
- Design
- Accessories
- Suction power
- Cleaning features
- Handling
- Maintenance, follow-up costs, etc.
- Value for money
- Volume
- Warranty
- Sustainability
#Tip 1: Design: What types of cordless hoovers are there?
If you are wondering whether a cordless vacuum cleaner is worthwhile for you, first ask yourself what you want to vacuum.
Depending on the area of application, some vacuums are more suitable than others. Basically, we can split them into four types here:
Handheld vacuum cleaners
These devices are small and handy. They are only suitable for smaller tasks, such as quickly cleaning crumbs from the couch.
Cordless vacuums
These cordless upright vacuum cleaners are used to clean the floor. So if you only want to clean floors, this might be for you.
2-in-1 cordless vacuums
Sometimes also called stick vacuum, cordless hoover or stick hoover.
These devices can be converted from a floor hoover to a compact handheld hoover in just a few steps. The possibility of switching to a handheld device increases your range of application and makes your cordless vacuum much more versatile.
That's why we always recommend buying a 2-in-1 device.
3-in-1 cordless vacuums
Miele also produces a 3-in-1 cordless vacuum. In addition to the two functions mentioned above, you can also choose between connecting the power unit directly to the floorhead or placing it at the upper end of the wand.
The bottom position ensures that the centre of gravity is lower and you can vacuum more comfortably. We describe this in more detail in our Miele Triflex HX1 review.
4-in-1 function - cordless vacuum-mops
Development is progressing and you may be pleased to hear that some manufacturers are now "experimenting" with mopping capabilities in addition to vacuuming.
We deliberately describe it as experimenting, as the designs are still in the early stages of development.
We have only been able to achieve good cleaning results with a few devices in our tests - you can read our review on the best vacuum-mop combo cordless vacuums here.
In addition, some brands also advertise a broom mode that is meant to replace sweeping on hard floors. However, we don’t fully understand the appeal of this function. 😕
What are your vacuuming needs?
With so many different types of devices, you must ask yourself what you need a vacuum cleaner for most.
📍 If you live in a multi-storey home or have lots of rooms, then a cordless device is worthwhile for you, so you can avoid constantly plugging and unplugging your device.
📍 If your floors are mainly carpeted, make sure the cordless vacuum you buy works well on carpets. Some models have a hard time here.
📍 Is the flooring in your home mainly laminate or hardwood? Then you should choose a device that is optimised or equipped for this. Producers of the best devices have developed special attachments for this purpose.
📍 Do you have a mix of different floor types in your home? In our experience, most homes have both hard floors and carpets. Of course, it makes sense to make sure that your chosen device performs well on all surfaces when buying.
That's why, at Smart Home Fox, we always test the appliances on different floors and with different types of dirt.
#Tip 2: Accessories and extras: Add value to your device
When buying a cordless vacuum cleaner, accessories can make a huge difference in your choice. Brands are very imaginative and there are a vast amount of different accessories on offer.
Good accessories can make your cordless vacuum much more versatile.
So check what’s included in the box when making your choice. Upgrading to a model that includes more accessories or opting for a bundle often only costs a few extra pounds.
Overview of the best accessories
Cordless vacuum brands are constantly coming up with new accessories for their products.
After all, it's a great way to set yourself apart from the competition.
And for us customers, more accessories means more ways to use our cordless hoover!
Some of the gadgets you’ll come across are handy, some are essential, and others are simply unnecessary.
So let’s check out some of the highlights from our tests.
Absolute essentials
First of all, we’ll go over the basic equipment that should be included as standard in the package contents.
Standard floorhead
This definitely includes the standard floorhead.
This brush head is used to clean the floor and you can use it to clean both carpets and hard floors.
It’s nice if the floor brush also has LED lighting.
Wall mount
A wall mount is a necessary accessory for saving space by storing your cordless vacuum on the wall. It’s not just used for storage, but also for charging your device.
Alternatively, you can use a floor dock*. They have the same function as a wall mount. However, you don't have to drill holes in the wall and you can easily move them around your home.
Another alternative to the wall mount is a freestanding cordless vacuum cleaner. Self-supporting devices also take up less space in your storage.
Crevice nozzle
Another must-have is the crevice nozzle.
This practical attachment lets you get into every crack and crevice. Fighting crumbs and dust between the sofa cushions is easy with this tool.
Multi-surface tool
The multi-tool is also a real asset.
Extend the bristles and you have a dusting brush for cleaning cupboards or dusting other surfaces.
Retract the bristles and you have an attachment for tackling coarse dirt on upholstery, mattresses or other tough areas.
Really handy extra
Soft roller
The soft roller or fluffy head is a game-changer for cleaning hard floors such as laminate, hardwood or vinyl.
The brush bar glides easily over the hard floor and picks up dirt better.
#Tip 3: Suction power =/= cleaning performance
Brands try to advertise the performance of their cordless hoovers using different values.
Watts are often used to do this.
What is an Airwatt?
Dyson has invented its own measurement called Airwatts. This value shows the suction power used by a vacuum to carry a unit of air through an opening. So if you change the size of the opening, you get a different suction power.
However, (air)watts do not necessarily have anything to do with the real cleaning performance. These figures are relative. There are cordless vacuum cleaners with fewer watts that achieve better cleaning performance than others.
Tip: Don't be guided by watt or airwatt specifications (or similar) when deciding which vacuum to buy. Instead, look at real vacuum reviews and cleaning tests.
Reviews that test cordless vacuum cleaning performance under both realistic and “extreme conditions” are much more informative than manufacturers’ specifications.
You can determine exactly which types of dirt and on which floor types the machine is suitable for.