The Best Cordless Vacuum Cleaners of 2026 – 32 models rated & ranked

Cordless Vacuum Cleaners compared: 32 models, rated on our own experience, expert tests, specs and owner feedback.

Top pickTineco Pure ONE S70
Best valueLevoit LVAC 200 MAXfrom €199.99

MKBy Miriam KohlHome & garden editor

UpdatedOctober 11, 2026

Ranking

32models rated

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Guides

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Our recommendations

The Cordless Vacuum Cleaners we recommend

No. 1 · Top pick

Tineco Pure ONE S70

At a glance

Battery life: 95 min
Weight: 3.07 kg (6.8 lb)
Suction performance: 200 AW
Dustbin capacity: 0.6 liters (0.16 gal)

Our verdictExcellent97

Der Tineco Pure ONE S70 ist ein leiser, selbst regelnder Akkusauger für Hartboden und Kurzflor.

Pros

Automodus regelt Saugkraft nach Schmutzmenge und Kanten selbst
Gründlich auf Hartboden, auch in Fugen alter Dielen
ZeroTangle-Walze bleibt auch bei langen Haaren und Katzen frei

Cons

Akku hält im Automodus nur 35 bis 45 statt 95 min
Rund 3,5 kg schwer, über Kopf nur mit zwei Händen
Auf Langflor reicht die Kraft für Schmutz in der Tiefe nicht

Best for

Wohnungen bis etwa 100 m² mit Hartboden und Kurzflor
Haushalte mit Hund oder Katze
wer früh morgens oder spät abends saugt

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 97 · ExcellentValue for money 95 · Excellent

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
99/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
94/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
92/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
100/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
100/ 100Excellent
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
100/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 2

Shark PowerDetect Speed Clean & Empty Pet Pro

At a glance

Battery life: 60 min
Weight: 3.2 kg (7.1 lb)
Suction performance: –
Dustbin capacity: 0.47 liters (0.12 gal)

Our verdictExcellent92

Der Shark PowerDetect Speed Clean & Empty Pet Pro ist ein sehr gründlicher Akkusauger für Hartboden, der Tierhaare fast ohne Verheddern aufnimmt und dank mitgelieferter Absaugstation kaum noch Staubkontakt verlangt.

Pros

Nimmt auf Laminat im Labortest 99,4 % des Schmutzes auf
Kaum Haarwickel an der Bürste, auch bei langen Haaren und Tierhaaren
Beutellose Absaugstation mit rund 2 l im Lieferumfang

Cons

Im Boost-Modus ist der Akku nach 12 bis 14 min leer
Lange Ladezeit von 5 bis 6 h
Steht ohne Station oder Wandhalterung nicht von allein

Best for

Haushalte mit überwiegend Laminat, Parkett oder Fliesen
Tierhalter mit Hund oder Katze und viel Fell auf Polstern
Allergiker, die beim Entleeren Staubkontakt vermeiden wollen

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 92 · ExcellentValue for money 81 · Excellent

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
95/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
90/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
91/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
97/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
86/ 100Excellent
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
94/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 3

Bosch Unlimited 10

At a glance

Battery life: 80 min
Weight: 3.7 kg (8.2 lb)
Suction performance: –
Dustbin capacity: 0.4 liters (0.11 gal)

Our verdictExcellent92

Der Bosch Unlimited 10 ist ein sehr gründlicher Akku-Stielsauger mit Wechselakku aus dem 18-V-System Power for All.

Pros

Nimmt auf Hartboden im Test 99,36 von 100 g Prüfschmutz auf
Reinigt auch 2 cm tiefe Fugen schon im Automatikmodus
18-V-Wechselakku passt in grüne Bosch-Geräte des Systems Power for All

Cons

Mit 3,7 kg schwer und kopflastig, anstrengend auf Treppen
Schwergängig auf hochflorigem Teppich, Schubkraft steigt bis 41 N
Staubbehälter mit 0,4 l klein und kaum durchsichtig

Best for

Haushalte mit überwiegend Parkett, Fliesen oder Laminat
Besitzer grüner Bosch-Werkzeuge mit 18-V-Akkus
Allergiker, die beim Leeren nicht hineingreifen wollen

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 92 · ExcellentValue for money 70 · Fair

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
96/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
93/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
86/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
93/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
90/ 100Excellent
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
94/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 4

Samsung Bespoke AI Jet Ultra

At a glance

Battery life: 160 min
Weight: 3.18 kg (7 lb)
Suction performance: 400 AW
Dustbin capacity: 0.5 liters (0.13 gal)

Our verdictExcellent92

Der Samsung Bespoke AI Jet Ultra ist ein sehr gründlicher Akku-Sauger für große Wohnungen mit Teppich und Hartboden.

Pros

Sehr hohe Saugleistung auf Teppich und Hartboden, Feinstaub oft in einem Zug
Zwei Wechselakkus, mit Elektrobürste bis 73 min auf Min
Absaugstation leert den 0,5-l-Behälter fast vollständig in einen 2-l-Beutel

Cons

Auf Teppich steif und schwer zu schieben wegen kleiner Rollen
Lange Haare wickeln sich um Teppichwalze und Pet Tool+
KI-Modus 2.0 nur mit App, WLAN, Samsung-Konto und Station

Best for

Große Wohnungen oder Häuser mit Teppich und Hartboden
Allergiker, die den Behälter nicht von Hand leeren wollen
Haushalte mit Tieren und Polstermöbeln

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 92 · ExcellentValue for money 64 · Fair

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
97/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
94/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
85/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
97/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
84/ 100Excellent
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
93/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 5

Tineco Pure One A90S

At a glance

Battery life: 105 min
Weight: 3.9 kg (8.6 lb)
Suction performance: 270 AW
Dustbin capacity: 0.8 liters (0.21 gal)

Our verdictExcellent89

Der Tineco Pure One A90S ist ein gründlicher Akkusauger für Hartböden, der Parkett, Fliesen und Fugen fast restlos sauber bekommt.

Pros

Nimmt auf Laminat über 99 % des Testschmutzes auf
Saugt Fugen und Ecken fast vollständig leer
180°-Knickrohr für das Saugen unter Sofa und Bett

Cons

Auf Teppich nur gut 57 % Schmutzaufnahme im Labortest
Mit 3,9 kg schwer, besonders beim Saugen über Kopf
Keine Absaugstation, Behälter wird von Hand geleert

Best for

Haushalte mit überwiegend Parkett, Fliesen oder Vinyl
Wohnungen mit vielen Möbeln, unter denen gesaugt werden muss
Tierhalter mit vorwiegend glatten Böden und Polstermöbeln

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 89 · ExcellentValue for money 74 · Fair

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
90/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
94/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
86/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
86/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
84/ 100Excellent
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
94/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 6

Dreame V20 Pro-A

At a glance

Battery life: 90 min
Weight: 3.1 kg (6.8 lb)
Suction performance: 210 AW
Dustbin capacity: 0.5 liters (0.13 gal)

Our verdictExcellent88

Der Dreame V20 Pro-A ist ein leichter Akkusauger mit Knickrohr, der auf Parkett und Fliesen sehr gründlich bis an die Sockelleiste reinigt.

Pros

Sehr gründlich auf Hartboden, in einem Test 98,7 % Schmutzaufnahme
Softwalze mit absenkbarer Gummilippe reinigt bis direkt an die Sockelleiste
Knickrohr um 90° für Betten und Sofas ohne Bücken

Cons

Teppichergebnisse schwanken, in einem Test Abschaltungen in höheren Stufen
Lange Haare in größerer Menge können die Bürste blockieren
Staubbehälter mit 0,5 l klein und beim Abnehmen fummelig

Best for

Haushalte mit überwiegend Parkett, Fliesen oder Vinyl
wer oft unter Betten und niedrigen Sofas saugt
Allergiker, die einen H14-HEPA-Filter wünschen

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 88 · ExcellentValue for money 80 · Excellent

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
90/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
86/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
90/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
84/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
76/ 100Good
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
84/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 7

Shark PowerDetect Clean & Empty IP3251EUT

At a glance

Battery life: 70 min
Weight: 3.71 kg (8.2 lb)
Suction performance: –
Dustbin capacity: 0.28 liters (0.07 gal)

Our verdictExcellent87

Der Shark PowerDetect Clean & Empty IP3251EUT ist ein gründlicher Stielsauger mit Absaugstation, der Hartboden in Tests fast restlos reinigt und sich nach jedem Andocken selbst leert.

Pros

Nimmt auf Hartboden in Tests rund 99 % des Testschmutzes auf
Beutellose Station entleert den Staubbehälter nach jedem Andocken automatisch
Düse erkennt Bodenart und Kanten und regelt die Leistung selbst nach

Cons

Mit 3,71 kg schwer, längere Einsätze ermüden
Laut: 72 dB in Eco, an der Düse auf Teppich über 90 dB
Rund 6 h Ladezeit, im Boost nur 10 bis 15 min Laufzeit

Best for

Haushalte mit Hund oder Katze und gemischten Böden
Wer überwiegend Hartboden hat und täglich kurz saugt
Wer den Staubbehälter nicht ständig selbst leeren will

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 87 · ExcellentValue for money 81 · Excellent

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
95/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
82/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
84/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
94/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
76/ 100Good
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
91/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 8 · Best value

Levoit LVAC 200 MAX

At a glance

Battery life: 70 min
Weight: 1.4 kg (3.1 lb)
Suction performance: 70 AW
Dustbin capacity: 0.58 liters (0.15 gal)

Our verdictExcellent86

Der Levoit LVAC 200 MAX ist ein leichter Stielsauger der Budgetklasse, der Hartboden und Fugen gründlich reinigt und dank 3000-mAh-Wechselakku mit Bodendüse 27 min im mittleren Modus schafft.

Pros

Reinigt Laminat und Fliesen samt Fugen gründlich, 99 von 100 g Schmutz aufgenommen
Wechselakku mit 3000 mAh, 18 bis 40 min mit Bodendüse
Lange Haare wickeln sich kaum um die Anti-Tangle-Walze

Cons

Hochflor erst nach zwei bis drei Durchgängen auf höchster Stufe sauber
Mini-Motorbürste für Polster und Tierhaare fehlt im Lieferumfang
Ladestand nur über drei Leuchten, keine Prozentanzeige

Best for

Haushalte mit viel Hartboden in einer Etagenwohnung
Tierhalter und Menschen mit langen Haaren auf glatten Böden
Besitzer eines Saugroboters, die einen Zweitsauger für Ecken suchen

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 86 · ExcellentValue for money 95 · Excellent

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
83/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
86/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
82/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
83/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
80/ 100Excellent
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
84/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 9

Yaber Home HP20

At a glance

Battery life: 65 min
Weight: 1.69 kg (3.7 lb)
Suction performance: 180 AW
Dustbin capacity: –

Our verdictExcellent86

Der Yaber Home HP20 ist ein leichter Akku-Stielsauger mit Wechselakku, der Hartboden meist in einer Bahn sauber macht und Hundehaare aufnimmt, ohne dass sie sich um die Walze wickeln.

Pros

Nimmt Staub und Tierhaare auf Hartboden meist in einer Bahn auf
Haare wickeln sich kaum um die Bürstenwalze
Eco-Modus läuft 63 min, nahe an den versprochenen 65 min

Cons

Turbo-Modus nur 17 min, Auto-Modus 25 min
Entriegelungsknopf löst beim Saugen leicht den Staubbehälter
Volle Ladung dauert 4 bis 5 h

Best for

Haushalte mit Hund oder Katze und viel Hartboden
Besitzer eines Saugroboters, die ein Gerät für Ecken suchen
Kleinere Wohnungen mit Laminat, Fliesen und Kurzflor

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 86 · ExcellentValue for money 95 · Excellent

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
87/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
83/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
87/ 100Excellent
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
90/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
83/ 100Excellent
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
85/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

No. 10

Dreame V30 Essential

At a glance

Battery life: 90 min
Weight: 2.3 kg (5.1 lb)
Suction performance: 330 AW
Dustbin capacity: 0.6 liters (0.16 gal)

Our verdictExcellent86

Der Dreame V30 Essential ist ein kräftiger Akku-Stielsauger, der den Kabelsauger ganz ersetzen kann: Hochflor ist in zwei bis drei Zügen sauber, und Tierhaare wickeln sich nicht auf.

Pros

Holt Krümel und Haare aus Hochflor in zwei bis drei Zügen
OmniX-Walze und Mini-Motorbürste wickeln keine Tierhaare auf
Rund 70 min in Eco mit Bodendüse, im Turbo über 10 min

Cons

Keine weiche Bodenwalze für Parkett im Lieferumfang
Handteil mit 2,3 kg ermüdet nach 15 bis 20 min das Handgelenk
Laden bis 99 % dauert gut 200 min

Best for

Haushalte mit Hund oder Katze
Wohnungen mit viel Teppich, auch Hochflor
wer den Kabelsauger ganz ersetzen will

How we rated it6 criteria

OverallOur rating 86 · ExcellentValue for money 70 · Fair

How the meta score is made

Our editorial rating50 %
Independent test reports35 %
Ratings from our readers15 %

If a part is missing, its weight is spread across the others. Value for money does not count towards the meta score.

We rate each criterion from 0 to 100. The editorial rating is their weighted average – the higher the weight, the more a criterion counts.

Suction performance
Weight 30 %
What we rate
Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin
This model
96/ 100Excellent
Battery & runtime
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge
This model
90/ 100Excellent
Handling & ergonomics
Weight 20 %
What we rate
Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount
This model
75/ 100Good
Filter & emptying
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock
This model
87/ 100Excellent
Noise level
Weight 10 %
What we rate
dB per suction level, pitch
This model
71/ 100Good
Build quality & ease of use
Weight 10 %
What we rate
Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories
This model
92/ 100Excellent

How we rate →

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All models in direct comparison

8 Cordless Vacuum Cleaners compared head-to-head

Buying advice

Cordless Vacuum Cleaners buying guide: what to look for

A cordless vacuum should be quick to grab and get through your whole apartment in one go. What matters is a realistic runtime, a weight you're comfortable carrying, and a brush that can handle hair. Lots of extras in the specs sound good but make little difference in everyday use. The devices in our list cost about €110 to €730, most of them €260 to €450.

Criterion 1 of 7

Battery runtime: the highest setting is what counts

The big numbers in the brochure almost always come from eco mode: according to the manufacturers, the devices in our list usually last 50 to 80 minutes there, but only 10 to 15 minutes on the highest setting. Yet that's exactly the setting you need for carpets and coarse dirt. 21 of the 24 devices have a swappable battery, but only four devices come with a second one. Charging usually takes 4 to 5.5 hours, so you can only keep vacuuming right away if you have a spare battery.

Rule of thumb:Plan around the runtime on the highest setting, and for large apartments, choose a device with a swappable battery.

Criterion 2 of 7

Weight and handheld unit

With the wand and floor head attached, manufacturers put most devices at 2.5 to 3.3 kg. You'll barely notice this when pushing the device across the floor, but you will when carrying it or vacuuming overhead – then you're holding only the handheld unit, usually 1.6 to 2.3 kg. Reviewers mainly criticize top-heavy devices: they feel heavier than the number suggests. A bendable wand means no stooping to clean under furniture, and only 7 of 20 devices stand on their own without a holder.

Rule of thumb:Besides the total weight, look for a lightweight handheld unit if you often vacuum shelves, stairs or ceilings.

Criterion 3 of 7

Suction power: making sense of manufacturer figures

Manufacturers state suction power inconsistently: 14 devices list Air Watts, usually 115 to 280 AW, while nine give the suction pressure in pascals, usually 23,000 to 29,000 Pa. There's no way to convert one into the other. Motor power and rpm reveal even less about how much dust ends up in the bin. More telling is how much reviewers find a device picks up on carpet, hard floors and in crevices, and whether its performance drops when the bin is full. To learn how to interpret the remaining figures, check out our guide to reading specs.

Rule of thumb:Only compare suction power within the same unit, and rely on review results rather than wattage figures.

Criterion 4 of 7

Brush and attachments to match the flooring

Hair wrapping around the brush roll costs suction power and patience. According to the manufacturers, most brushes now cut or remove it on their own – but reviewers report that this doesn't always work completely with very long hair. Every device comes with a motorized brush for carpets, while a soft roller for hard floors comes with only 10 of 24. It also picks up crumbs instead of flinging them away. A mini motorized brush for upholstery and pet hair is included with 14 devices.

Rule of thumb:If you have pets or long hair, you'll want an anti-tangle brush; if you have a lot of hard flooring, add a soft roller as well.

Criterion 5 of 7

Filters and emptying

According to the manufacturers, 20 of 24 devices have a HEPA filter, and almost all of them are washable – so you'll hardly ever need to buy replacement filters. The bin usually holds 0.47 to 0.69 liters and fills up quickly with pet hair. It's almost always emptied with a button or slider, but this often still kicks up dust. A self-emptying station, available with 8 of 19 devices, handles this without the dust, but it costs extra and takes up floor space. To find out how often the filter and brush need attention, check out our guide to caring for the filter, brush and battery.

Rule of thumb:A washable HEPA filter is enough for most households; an auto-empty station is mainly worthwhile for allergy sufferers.

Criterion 6 of 7

Keeping an eye on noise levels

Cordless vacuums are louder than their compact design suggests. According to the manufacturers, most already reach 79 to 86 dB on the lowest setting, and they get noticeably louder on the highest; a few devices manage with less than 60 dB. Pitch matters as well as volume: many people find a high-pitched whine more annoying than a low hum, and reviewers report this too. Since the figures aren't measured the same way, you shouldn't put too much weight on small differences.

Rule of thumb:If you vacuum in the evening or live in an apartment with thin walls, go for devices that stay below 80 dB on the lowest setting.

Criterion 7 of 7

Extras of little use

Most devices have two or three suction levels, and that's enough: according to the manufacturers, 14 of 20 devices have an automatic mode that detects the floor type and adjusts the suction itself. An app offers little more than a good display. Only 3 of 20 devices can mop; if you wet-clean your floors regularly, you'll be better off with a dedicated wet-dry vacuum. The warranty matters more: it's usually 2 to 5 years – check whether it also covers the battery.

Rule of thumb:An app, a mopping function and lots of suction levels aren't worth paying extra for, but a display showing the remaining runtime is handy.

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FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What does the Air Watts rating mean for cordless vacuum cleaners?

Air Watts (AW) indicate suction power, meaning the interplay of airflow and vacuum pressure. In our list, 14 of 24 manufacturers state this value. It ranges from 25 to 400 AW, with a median of 210 AW. Other manufacturers state suction power in pascals. That only measures vacuum pressure, and it can't be converted into Air Watts. So only compare devices that use the same unit.

How long does a cordless vacuum cleaner's battery really last?

Expect 10 to 15 minutes at full power rather than the big number on the box. Manufacturers state 20 to 160 minutes, with a median of 70 minutes. However, these figures usually apply to Eco mode. At the highest setting, the stated figures range from 7 to 40 minutes, with a median of 13 minutes. If you have a lot of carpet, pay particular attention to this figure.

What does a dirt sensor do on a cordless vacuum cleaner?

According to the manufacturers, a dirt sensor detects how much dust is being picked up and automatically turns the suction power up or down accordingly. This saves battery, because the device only runs at high power when there's a lot of dirt. In our list, 11 of 19 devices with data have such a sensor. This is different from automatic adjustment to the floor type, which 14 of 20 devices offer.

Are cordless vacuum cleaners suitable for homes with pets?

Yes, if the brush detangles or cuts hair on its own. Otherwise, pet hair wraps around the roller and you have to cut it out by hand. In our list, 18 of 21 devices with data have this anti-tangle brush. A mini motorized brush for upholstery and cat scratching posts is included with 14 of 24 devices. Also make sure the bin is large enough: the median capacity is 0.54 liters.

Are cordless vacuum cleaners suitable for allergy sufferers?

Usually yes, because according to the manufacturers, 20 of 24 devices in our list have a HEPA filter. Emptying the bin is just as important. On 21 of 22 devices with data, you do this with a button or slider, without having to reach into the dust. A self-emptying station that empties the bin automatically stirs up even less dust. It's included with 8 of 19 devices.

What is the difference between a cordless vacuum cleaner and a robot vacuum?

You guide a cordless vacuum cleaner yourself, while a robot vacuum cleans your home on its own according to a schedule. In return, the cordless vacuum also reaches stairs, corners, upholstery and, with the handheld unit, even the ceiling. The robot keeps your floors clean day to day without you having to do anything. Many households combine both devices: the robot for everyday cleaning, the stick vacuum for everything the robot can't reach.

What is the difference between a cordless vacuum cleaner and a wet-dry floor cleaner?

A wet-dry floor cleaner vacuums and mops hard floors in a single pass using fresh water and then picks the dirty water back up. A cordless vacuum cleaner only picks up dry dirt, but it also works on carpet and upholstery. In our list, only 3 of 20 devices with data have a mopping function. It usually works with a mop attachment and is hardly a substitute for a real wet-dry floor cleaner.

Can a cordless vacuum cleaner replace a corded vacuum cleaner?

In many homes, yes; in large houses with lots of carpet, only to a limited extent. A corded device runs for an unlimited time and usually has a larger bin. In our list, by contrast, the bin holds only 0.47 to 0.69 liters if you look at the middle half of the devices. On the other hand, a cordless vacuum is ready to go faster, weighs a median of just 2.94 kg and also works as a handheld vacuum.

Is a cordless vacuum cleaner with a self-emptying station worth it?

It's worth it mainly for allergy sufferers and households with pets, because you then don't have to empty the small bin by hand after every vacuuming session. According to the manufacturers, the station empties the contents automatically. That takes up space and usually costs money for bags as well. In our list, 8 of 19 devices with data have a self-emptying station. If you rarely vacuum and don't have much dust, you'll do fine without one.

Is an expensive cordless vacuum worth it?

An expensive device is worth it if you actually use its features, such as a self-emptying station, a second battery, or more runtime for a large apartment. Prices in our list currently range from 110 to 730 euros, with the median at around 360 euros. The middle half of the devices cost between 260 and 450 euros. For a small apartment with hard floors, a device from the lower end of the range is often enough.

Is a cordless vacuum with a swappable battery worth it?

Yes, because a battery wears out over time, and a replaceable battery extends the device's lifespan. On 21 of the 24 devices in our list, it can be swapped without tools. However, only 4 manufacturers include a second battery. A second battery is worth it in large apartments, because according to the manufacturers, charging takes a median of 240 minutes. That's too long to wait in the middle of cleaning.

How do I care for a cordless vacuum so it lasts a long time?

Empty the bin regularly, wash the filter, and clear hair from the brush. That way, the suction power lasts longer. 19 of the 20 devices with available data have a washable filter, so there are usually no ongoing costs for replacement filters. According to the manufacturers, the warranty ranges from 2 to 10 years, with a median of 3 years. Our care guide explains how often each type of maintenance is due and how to protect the battery.

How heavy should a good cordless vacuum be?

Around 2.5 to 3.3 kg with the tube and floor head is typical. According to the manufacturers, that's what the middle half of the devices in our list weigh, with a median of 2.94 kg. If you often vacuum cobwebs off the ceiling or clean shelves, the weight of the handheld unit matters more. Its median weight is 1.8 kg. Besides weight, balance is important, and the reviews pay attention to that too.

How do you rate cordless vacuums?

We combine three sources into a meta score from 0 to 100. Our editorial rating counts for 50 percent, independent reviews for 35 percent, and ratings from our readers for 15 percent. We look at suction performance, battery and runtime, handling, filter and emptying, noise level, and build quality. We don't take measurements ourselves; we analyze manufacturer specifications, reviews, and user reports. Price isn't factored in; we rate value for money separately.

How do I find the right cordless vacuum in the ranking?

Start by filtering for what matters most to you, such as battery runtime, weight, swappable battery, self-emptying station, or anti-tangle brush. If you have allergies, you can also filter for a HEPA filter. Then sort the list by best rating or by value for money. If you want to compare key specs, you can also sort by noise level or dust capacity. Don't set the filters for suction power and suction strength too narrowly, because many manufacturers only state one of the two values.

Methodology

How we rate Cordless Vacuum Cleaners

The meta score (0–100) combines three parts: our editorial rating (50 %), independent test reports (35 %) and ratings from our readers (15 %). If one part is missing, its weight is shared among the others.

The editorial rating draws on manufacturer specifications, independent tests and user experiences. It is made up of 6 criteria with fixed weights:

Suction performance30 %

Pickup on hard floors, carpet, crevices and upholstery (weighed), loss of performance with a full bin

Battery & runtime20 %

Measured runtime per level, charging time, swappable battery, performance at low charge

Handling & ergonomics20 %

Weight, balance, maneuverability, conversion to handheld, wall mount

Filter & emptying10 %

Dust escaping when emptying, filter cleaning, HEPA effectiveness, auto-empty dock

Noise level10 %

dB per suction level, pitch

Build quality & ease of use10 %

Material quality, click of the connectors, display, accessories

We rate value for money separately: price deliberately does not count towards the meta score. That keeps the score stable when prices change. For value for money, we compare each model with what this category typically offers at its price.

Full methodology

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