Best Cordless Stick Vacuums [12 Options Compared]

Best Cordless Stick Vacuum

Cordless stick vacuums are versatile tools to clean multiple areas (hard floor, carpet, upholstery, etc.) inside your home.

And in this article, we’ll be looking at the best options I’ve tested over the past few years (more than 20).

I’ve reviewed a bunch and done a bunch of experiments with filtration, cleaning performance, and much more.

Please note that cordless stick vacuums refer to vacuums with the dustbin and motor on top, so products like the Shark Vertex Cordless and Lupe Pure won’t be on the list.

Best Cordless Stick Vacuums for Hardwood (or Hard) Floors

Hardwood cordless vacuum

First is the list of cordless vacuums on hard floors. The criteria for product selection on hard floors are different than on carpets.

Airflow and suction aren’t as high on the priority list since dirt are on the surface.

A soft roller attachment is one must-have feature for any cordless stick vacuum on this surface.

It’s an innovation introduced by Dyson, and other brands have imitated it, but some innovative brands have taken it a step further.

One example is Shark. They’re the first to introduce a twin brush design with a soft roller and standard brush roll.

The idea was simple, the roller (plus the ample clearance) handles larger debris piles, while the bristled brush provides agitation on carpets.

This technology works to a degree, but it isn’t very good at deep cleaning carpets and picking up hair – long hair strands wrapped around the bristled brush.

So Shark improved their design, adding fins and combs (along with) increasing the girth.

And you can see this new design in the Shark Vertex Cordless.

Shark Vertex cordless powerfins

Soft roller attachments don’t necessitate high airflow to pick up dirt on hardwood floors.

These tools have enough agitation to gather debris and funnel them into the nozzle’s inlet.

Cordless stick vacuums like the Dyson Omni Glide and Shark Vertex have below-average airflow yet pick up well because of this technology, which is excellent news to consumers.

There’s no need to use a big motor or battery to offset anything, so these products are lighter than a traditional upright vacuum – one of its primary selling points.

Best Overall: Dyson V15 Detect

Dyson V15 Detect
  • Airflow: 73 CFM.
  • Dust bin size: 0.77 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning: 100%
  • Weight: 6.8 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 84:19 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 80.8 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: No

For Large Messes: Shark Vertex Cordless

Shark Vertex Cordless
  • Airflow: 37.87 CFM.
  • Dust bin size: 1.28 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.7%
  • Weight: 0.04 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 36:42 mins.
  • Recharge: 4 hrs.
  • Battery: 25.2-volt 2450 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 76 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: Yes

Best Steering: Dyson Omni Glide

Dyson Omni Glide
  • Airflow: 31.94 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.18 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.35%
  • Weight: 4.18 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 23:30 mins.
  • Recharge: 3.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 76 dB
  • Self Standing: No

LightweightDyson Micro 1.5KG

Dyson Micro 1.5KG 150
  • Airflow: 32.41 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.18 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.7%
  • Weight: 3.3 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 27 mins.
  • Recharge: 3.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 78.5 dB
  • Self Standing: No

Value Option: Tineco A11

Tineco A11
  • Airflow: 58 CFM.
  • Dust bin size: 0.6 liters
  • Fog Test: Some Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.4%
  • Weight: 3.74 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 26:44 mins. x 2
  • Recharge: 3.5 – 4 hrs.
  • Battery: 2,000 mAH Li-ion
  • Noise: 75.4 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: No

Best Cordless Vacuums for Carpets

Carpet cordless stick vacuum

Next, we’ll look at the best carpet options. Unlike hardwood floors, airflow and suction are critical components for an excellent cordless vacuum on this surface.

High-airflow cordless vacuums are better on this surface, with dust and debris buried underneath carpet fibers.

Agitation also plays a critical role, especially with embedded debris.

Brands like Dyson and Shark excel on this surface for various reasons. Dyson combines high airflow with brush roll improvements to pick up more embedded sand than any brand on this list.

Shark relies heavily on agitation with their latest Vertex series.

Most options on this list are Dysons, and it’s not a surprise with their high airflow.

Best Overall: Dyson V15 Detect

Dyson V15 Detect
  • Airflow: 73 CFM.
  • Dust bin size: 0.77 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Deep Cleaning: 100%
  • Weight: 6.8 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 84:19 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 80.8 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: No

Cheaper V15 Alternative: Dyson V11 Torque Drive

Dyson V11 Torque Drive
  • Airflow: 66.13 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.77 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Deep Cleaning: 100%
  • Weight: 6.68 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 74:58 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 78.9 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: No

Upright Capacity Dyson V11 Outsize

Dyson V11 Outsize
  • Airflow: 66.65 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 1.89 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Deep Cleaning: 100%
  • Weight: 7.85 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 85:24 mins.
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 78.8 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: No

Lots of Tools: Tineco Pure One S12

Tineco Pure One S12
  • Airflow: 61.72 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.6 liters
  • Fog Test: Some Leaks
  • Deep Cleaning: 98.3%
  • Weight: 6.6 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 51:21 mins. x 2
  • Recharge: 4.5 hrs.
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 70.4 dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: No

Best Budget Alternatives

Budget Budget Cordless Vacuum

These are the least expensive alternatives to the premium options, and while these options are not as expensive, (nearly) all options won’t filter well.

Sure, brands claim to use a HEPA filter, but that alone won’t determine how well a product keeps allergens inside the dustbin.

The seals around it are also critical in preventing leaks, and for all the cheap options I’ve tested, there were heavy leaks.

Another potential downside for (most) cheap cordless stick vacuums is parts availability.

Most of the brands I see on Amazon and other online stores are startups that want a piece of this industry.

There’s no way of knowing which of these manufacturers will be around for the next two, three, or four years.

Budget alternatives are below $250. I don’t trust the options below $100 very much.

Most are too

Best Budget Option: Tineco A10

Tineco A10
  • Airflow: 51 CFM.
  • Dust bin size: 0.4 liters
  • Fog Test: Heavy Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning: 94.7%
  • Weight: 2.87 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 26:44 mins.
  • Recharge: 3 to 4 hrs.
  • Battery: 2500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 77.7dB
  • Warranty: 2 yrs.
  • Self Standing: No

Surprisingly Good Cleaning: Moosoo K17

Moosoo K17
  • Airflow: 41.31 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.5 liters
  • Fog Test: Heavy Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.8%
  • Deep Cleaning: 89.4%
  • Weight: 2.79 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 30 mins.
  • Recharge: 4 hrs.
  • Battery: 2200 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 71.2 dB
  • Warranty: 1 yr.
  • Self Standing: No

Jashen V16

Jashen V16
  • Airflow: 39.25 CFM
  • Dust bin size: 0.5 liters
  • Fog Test: No Leaks
  • Sand on hard floor: 99.6%
  • Deep Cleaning: 87%
  • Weight: 2.79 lbs.
  • Run time: up to 44 mins.
  • Recharge: 3 to 4 hrs.
  • Battery: 2,500 mAh Li-ion
  • Noise: 76.6 dB
  • Warranty: 1 yr.
  • Self Standing: No

How to Choose the Best Cordless Stick Vacuum?

Cordless stick vacuums are perhaps the most popular of the different vacuum types on the market.

It’s not a surprise because these are versatile, lightweight, and the best brands offer cleaning performance close to an upright.

Thanks to the soft roller, a cord-free stick vacuum is a better option for hardwood floors because of its versatility and ergonomics.

However, not all cordless stick vacuums are suitable for carpets. All brands will claim to have excellent suction, but tests reveal that wasn’t the case.

The answers to the questions below will help you zero in on what cordless stick vacuum you’ll eventually purchase.

1. What surface are you cleaning?

Does your home have carpets or hard floors? Answering this question will quickly eliminate unsuitable options.

Homes with hard-floor-only surfaces should look for something with a soft roller attachment.

I’ve tested many cordless stick vacuums, and most roller attachments I’ve tested pick up debris on hard floors well.

The best part is that soft-roller-equipped stick vacuums don’t need high airflow to be efficient. Products like the Dyson Omni-Glide and Micro 1.5 KG are proof.

But more airflow is a must-have on carpets.

The best performing cordless stick vacuums on carpets have (upwards of) 50 or 60 CFM at the nozzle.

Tests show a correlation between high airflow and carpet cleaning performance. 

It’s not a theory but a fact based on the numbers.

2. How much are you willing to spend?

Another important factor is your budget. Before looking at the options above, it’ll be wise to set a cap or range on how much you’ll spend.

This step will eliminate options out of the price range and save time.

3. How big is your home?

The next thing to consider is the size of your home. Do you live in an enormous 10,000-square-foot mansion or a tiny flat?

Vacuuming larger homes will require a larger dustbin since more debris will accumulate.

So it doesn’t make sense to purchase a low-capacity stick vacuum in a massive home.

Likewise, there’s no sense in purchasing a $700+ full-sized Dyson stick vacuum inside a tiny 500-square-foot apartment.

It’ll be too big and heavy to fit in cramped areas and pricey.

Do you get the drift?

Match the product with what you need.

If I had a choice for my small home, I’d go with the Dyson Omni-Glide. It’s lightweight, compact, and maneuvers around and underneath furniture well.

4. Do you need to clean other areas aside from the floors?

Shark Vertex cordless handheld mode

Are you just cleaning floors, or do you need to clean upholstery?

What makes cordless stick vacuums popular is their versatility, capable of efficiently cleaning more than one area.

It’s another factor to consider during product selection.

For example, you live in a small home and want something that doubles as a handheld.

The Dyson Micro 1.5KG is an excellent option because of its lightweight frame.

If Dyson released a handheld version of it with the torq screw tool, it would be hands-down the best handheld option inside tiny homes.

Other features to consider

I hope you took the time to answer the questions above and let me know if it has helped you with product selection.

Furthermore, there are other factors to consider, which I’ll enumerate below.

1. Battery Detachability

Tineco S12 vs. Dyson V15

I prefer detachable batteries because it’s easier to extend the cordless vacuum’s run time with them.

It’s also easier to replace something removable than something bolted. So this is a convenience factor for consumers.

Some brands like select Tineco and Dyson stick vacuums come with two batteries with provisions to charge both simultaneously.

If you can afford them, it’s an excellent option to consider.

2. Filtration

Dyson V15 fog test

Another underrated feature of cordless stick vacuums is filtration.

Many brands claim theirs have HEPA filtration, but what they don’t tell you is this feature alone won’t keep allergens inside the dustbin.

The seals around the dustbin are equally as important.

One test I utilize to check is the fog machine.

It provides a visual cue to whether the seals are good enough to keep the fog inside the container.

3. Self-Standing

LG CordZero A9 whole body 1

Most cordless stick vacuums I’ve tested don’t have this feature.

Consumers will need to drill holes to fasten a holder on the wall for vertical storage.

I’m not too fond of drilling walls. Maybe some of you likewise don’t.

Some brands like LG offer a stand for storage, which is excellent.

Others like Shark go the extra mile by adding innovative features like the bendable tube.

4. Attachments

Tineco S12 Tools

What type of tools do you need? These cordless stick vacuums offer a variety of attachments, depending on the variant.

The Tineco A11 and Pure One S12 have tools that offer the longest reach.

Dyson has the best hair cleaning tool (torq screw attachment).

Those are some examples of what brands have to offer.

5. Availability of Parts

Don’t overlook parts availability during product selection.

It’s one reason why I hesitate to recommend unknown brands.

Some folks will call me a Dyson-lover, but there’s a reason why – it’s so popular, and this brand recognition has other benefits.

Sheer parts availability.

It doesn’t matter. Do you need a battery, obscure parts like the dustbin container or other attachments?

There’s an abundance.

Other brands like Shark have these components available, but you’ll have to purchase from them, which is (typically) costlier.

Best Overall: Dyson V15 Detect

Dyson V15 Detect

Pros

  • Excellent all-around option on hard floors and carpets
  • It had the best deep cleaning results in the middle (or auto) setting
  • Above-average dustbin capacity
  • One of the best at picking up long hair strands on carpet
  • The laser slim sensor highlights almost-invisible dust better an any LED nozzle
  • Fully sealed dustbin (didn’t leak during the fog test)
  • The dustbin is easy to empty (thanks to the hygienic system)

Cons

  • Ultra expensive option
  • Top-heavy design can be difficult to push on carpets (especially in the max setting)
  • The vast availability of spare parts

I put the Dyson V15 Detect on the best-of lists on hard floors and carpets with good reason.

This variant performed exceptionally well in virtually all the cleaning experiments – surface, embedded, and hair.

It’s (perhaps) the best all-around cordless stick vacuum without any glaring weaknesses.

Dyson retained the same design framework as the older V11 options but with a few enhancements.

The new laser slim attachment that uses a green laser to accentuate dust is most helpful for me.

Dyson V15 green light expose dust particles

Dust particles pop with the green light flashing, and it’s better than any LED-equipped vacuum I’ve tested.

Another feature worth noting is the new torq screw tool that’s the best (I’ve tested) at picking up long hair strands.

Dyson V15 torque screw attachment in action

The upgrades Dyson put in its standard nozzle improved hair pick-up on carpets.

Unlike the older V11 options that didn’t have a comb, the V15 nozzle has it, along with a chunkier brush with these protrusions around it to help resist hair tangles.

Dyson V15 high torque nozzle

These upgrades pushed the V15’s performance further, and it’s one of the best at cleaning long hair.

Some of its sub-variants come with two batteries with two chargers so that you can charge them simultaneously.

Lastly (and the clincher for me), the V15 is the best among all the options for deep cleaning carpet in the middle setting.

I don’t see other review sites talking about this, but using the max setting exclusively will shorten the battery’s lifespan.

And not having to use the highest setting will reduce wear and tear.

One factor that may hold you back from purchasing this product is its price.

The V15 will cost more than all mid to high-end upright vacuums. Is it worth the premium cost?

That would depend on what your needs are.

Do you need its high-end performance and the bells-and-whistles?

The answer will determine if you’re willing to spend for it.

For Large Messes: Shark Vertex Cordless

Shark Vertex Cordless Forlded

Pros

  • The Duo Clean nozzle is excellent for large messes (hard floors and carpets)
  • A foldable wand enables it to be self-standing
  • Large capacity dustbin (over 1-liter)
  • Detachable battery
  • Excellent at cleaning long hair strands on both surfaces
  • Cheaper alternative to Dyson stick vacuums
  • It reaches deep under furniture

Cons

  • Short run time (less than 30-minutes) versus the other brands here
  • The lack of attachment and handle placement hamper its handheld usability
  • Doesn’t deep clean carpet as well as a Dyson

One of the more innovative brands in this industry is Shark, and the Vertex cordless is proof of this innovation.

This is Shark’s answer to the Dyson V-series cordless stick vacuums with unique features not available to its more expensive counterpart.

And one of these features is the foldable tube that helps it reach underneath furniture and be self-standing.

Shark Vertex foldable wand

The Duo Clean nozzle is upgraded and better equipped to handle long hair strands than the earlier version.

Shark added fins and a thicker brush to combat tangles, and the results show that it’s better at resisting hair wraps.

Shark Vertex cordless Duo Clean head

Aside from the upgraded Duo Clean nozzle, it retains the extra-large 1.28-liter dustbin, the second largest of the bunch.

The large clearance is excellent for large messes.

However, the twin roller system eats up more current, and the run-time tests reveal it won’t last as long as the other brands here.

Best Option in Small Homes: Dyson Omni Glide

Dyson Omni Glide full body

Pros

  • Superb steering around tight spaces
  • Reaches deep under furniture
  • Excellent pick up on hard floors
  • Fully-sealed system
  • Extremely lightweight

Cons

  • Not usable on carpet
  • Small dustbin capacity
  • Short run time

One of the unique stick vacuum options is the Dyson Omni-Glide.

It doesn’t look like a traditional stick vacuum with its wand-type handle.

But the most intriguing feature (at least for me) is its 360-degree steering from the twin roller nozzle.

Underneath, it has four caster wheels, enabling consumers to turn the nozzle a complete revolution, something not possible with other options in this list.

Dyson Omni roller underneath

These caster wheels help it steer under furniture better than any stick vacuum.

Consumers can move it from side to side, making it more efficient to clean these neglected areas.

The narrower width helps it fit better in cramped spaces, so I recommend this for smaller homes.

However, it won’t run as long as more expensive Dyson options because it uses a smaller battery.

Also, it doesn’t have as much airflow since it has a smaller motor.

But these won’t be issues when cleaning small spaces because it’s efficient enough at picking up debris.

Upright Dirt Capacity: Dyson V11 Outsize

Dyson V11 Outsize full shot

Pros

  • Enormous dustbin (1.89-liters)
  • High airflow means excellent carpet performance
  • The wide cleaning nozzle covers a lot of ground
  • Lengthy run time
  • Detachable battery
  • Excellent seal picks up debris well on carpet

Cons

  • Very top-heavy
  • Not very usable as a handheld option
  • Very expensive

After Dyson released the V11 Torque Drive, the next variant was a super-sized version with a name apt for it – the V11 Outsize.

It’s a V11 on steroids with everything upsized.

This variant more than doubles the dustbin capacity (0.77 vs. 1.89 liters), has a wider brush roll (over 13″), and has slightly more airflow.

Dyson V11 Torque Drive and Outsize side by side

Cleaning performance is slightly better than the V11 Torque Drive, but I wouldn’t consider it a deciding factor.

It’s something that large homeowners should consider, but there are obvious downsides to this supersized cordless stick vacuum.

The most glaring is its weight – 7.85 pounds may not sound a lot, but with most of it on top, using this for extended stretches will be a challenge, especially on carpet.

The ultra-wide nozzle (over 13″) is excellent for wide-open spaces but will be challenging inside cramped areas.

So I’d only recommend this on large homes with lots of carpets to take full advantage of the Outsize’s large-capacity dustbin and wide nozzle.

Value-for-Money: Tineco A11

Tineco A11

Pros

  • Excellent performance on hard floors on carpet
  • Better ergonomics than the Dyson V10 or V11
  • Some variants come with two detachable batteries
  • Lots of tools out of the box
  • Its charging stand can charge two batteries simultaneously
  • Cheaper than any of the Dyson cordless vacuums on this list

Cons

  • It doesn’t turn as sharply as a Shark or Dyson
  • Visible leaks during the fog test

The Tineco A11 is one of the best “budget” cordless stick vacuums available.

Technically, the A11 isn’t a budget since it costs over $200, but I added it because it’s much cheaper than the Dyson V8 and V10.

If you’re willing to spend a little more on a product that’ll hold up better over the long haul from a reputable brand, the Tineco A11 should be on your shortlist.

The variant I bought was the A11 Master, which I don’t think is available on Amazon.

But it might be on other websites.

Nonetheless, the standard nozzle still picked up a very high percentage (the high 90s) on hard floors and carpets even without the soft roller attachment.

Another reason why I like the A11 is the attachments. Tineco offers consumers many tool options that offer better reach than any cordless stick vacuum option like the one below.

Tineco A11 Flexible Long Crevice Tool

However, the A11 doesn’t steer as sharply as a Dyson. My biggest gripe with their cordless vacuums is the angled tube mechanism.

But overall, the Tineco A11 offers comparable cleaning performance to the more expensive Dysons like the V8, V10, and even V11, with slightly worse deep cleaning performance.

Airflow Comparison

Next, we’ll look at how these vacuums stack up with airflow. I used an anemometer to measure airflow at the wand and cleaning nozzle for this experiment.

Here are the results (for all stick vacuums I’ve tested).

ModelEcoMid/AutoBoost
DreameTech V10
Wand24.87 CFM32.65 CFM51.89 CFM
Cleaning head23.39 CFM28.52 CFM41.31 CFM
DreameTech T30
Wand28.52 CFM36.95 CFM58.35 CFM
Cleaning head27 CFM30.64 CFM41.91 CFM
Dyson V15 Detect
Wand34.55 CFM42.38 CFM73 CFM
Cleaning Head29.98 CFM36.32 CFM69.19 CFM
Dyson V11 Outsize
Wand33.3 CFM41.07 CFM66.65 CFM
Cleaning Head29.52 CFM33.4 CFM59.5 CFM
Dyson V11 Torque Drive
Wand34.55 CFM41.91 CFM66.13 CFM
Cleaning Head28.52 CFM31.94 CFM53.58 CFM
Dyson V10 Absolute
Wand28.57 CFM36 CFM59.71 CFM
Cleaning Head26 CFM31.37 CFM49.27 CFM
Dyson V8 Absolute
Wand31.34 CFMN/A54.24 CFM
Cleaning Head26 CFMN/A36.95 CFM
Dyson V7 MotorHead
Wand29.64 CFMN/A49.68 CFM
Cleaning Head26.28 CFMN/A37.92 CFM
Dyson Micro 1.5KG
Wand24.53 CFMN/A32.41 CFM
Cleaning Head19.33 CFMN/A26.64 CFM
Dyson Omni Glide
Wand23.71 CFMN/A23.71 CFM
Cleaning Head20.35 CFMN/A26.28 CFM
Jashen V16
Wand25.48 CFM30.64 CFM39.25 CFM
Cleaning Head21.95 CFM27 CFM33.3 CFM
LG CordZero A9
Wand31 CFMN/A52 CFM
Cleaning head24.53 CFMN/A36.32 CFM
Miele Triflex HX1
Wand34.55 CFM48.72 CFM54.88 CFM
Cleaning head35.88 CFM41.91 CFM45.75 CFM
Moosoo K17
Wand32.67 CFMN/A41.31 CFM
Cleaning head28.52 CFMN/A36.32 CFM
Roborock H7
Wand21.94 CFM28.52 CFM47 CFM
Cleaning head18.99 CFM24.87 CFM36.61 CFM
Shark ION P50
Wand31.37 CFMN/A46.27 CFM
Cleaning head24.8 CFMN/A29 CFM
Shark Vertex Cordless
Wand29.63 CFMN/A52.53 CFM
Cleaning head28.76 CFMN/A36 CFM
Tineco A10
Wand31.5 CFMN/A51 CFM
Cleaning head22.58 CFMN/A35 CFM
Tineco A11
Wand31.9 CFMN/A58 CFM
Cleaning head24.35 CFMN/A39.72 CFM
Tineco Pure One S12
Wand34 CFMN/A61.72 CFM
Cleaning head27.95 CFMN/A50.71 CFM

Airflow is an excellent metric to gauge cordless vacuum performance, especially on carpets.

High airflow cordless stick vacuums tend to do well on carpet.

If you want something that’ll pick up embedded debris on carpets or deep clean, go with a high airflow cordless vacuum.

Yes, other factors like nozzle design and agitation come into play, but airflow is a prerequisite for carpet performance.

Suction Comparison

Another metric I measured is suction, where I used a water lift gauge. This device is used for central vacuums to check if there are clogs in the system.

It’s a device used to gauge a vacuum’s suction near the motor.

Here are the results. There are three measurements I did: direct, sealed, and unsealed.

Direct: I used only the water lift gauge to measure how much water lift it generates.

Water lift direct suction test

Sealed: The water lift and Y-gauge are used with the open end covered with my palm.

Y-gauge sealed test

Unsealed: The same setup as number two, with the open end, uncovered.

Y-gauge test unsealed test

The most accurate of these tests is the third (or unsealed) since it has the least variables involved.

ModelDirect (Water Lift)Y-gauge (unsealed)Y-gauge (sealed)
DreameTech T3094"31"85"
Dyson V15 Detect100"28"80"
Roborock H790"N/AN/A
Dyson V11 Outsize90"25"82"
LG CordZero A950"22"70"
Dyson V11 Torque Drive63"20"60"
Miele Triflex HX122"19"22"
Dyson V10 Absolute63"18"50"
Dyson V8 Absolute60"15"48"
Dyson V7 MotorHead57"10"39”
Dyson Micro 1.5KG48"8"50"
Dyson Omni Glide48"8"50"

Surprisingly, the V15 Detect didn’t go number one. It was the Dreame Tech T30 with 31″ of water lift.

However, the V15 was better than the T30 with the cleaning tests, which I’ll share below.

It’s one reason why I don’t rely heavily on suction as a metric to determine a cordless stick vacuum’s potential cleaning performance.

Cleaning Comparison

I put all cordless stick vacuums through a grueling series of tests on various debris: hair, quaker oats, coffee grounds, quinoa, pet litter, and sand.

These experiments are done on hard floors and carpets to check how these products handle various messes.

And here are the results for the cordless stick vacuums I’ve tested so far.

ModelOverallHard Floors (Surface)Sand on Hard FloorCarpet (Surface)Carpet (Surface)
Dyson V11 Outsize100%100%100%100%100%
Dyson V15 Detect99.91%99.85%99.8%100%100%
Tineco A1199.80%99.88%99.40%99.80%96.45%
Dyson V11 Torque Drive99.66%99.72%99.4%99.26%100%
Dyson Omni Glide *99.42%99.35%99.50%N/AN/A
Tineco A1099.40%99.82%99.80%99.81%94.70%
Tineco Pure One S1299.17%99.88%99.90%99.34%98.30%
LG CordZero A998.60%99.70%100%99.95%94.75%
Shark Vertex Cordless98.4%99.35%99.70%99.87%94.70%
Dyson V8 Absolute98.21%99.66%99.5%97.29%97.7%
DreameTech T3097.93%98.05%99.80%99.90%94%
Dyson V10 Absolute97.21%97.21%100%98.4%97.03%
Roborock H795.76%88.05%99.50%99.52%96.00%
Moosoo K1796.21%99.58%99.80%99.65%89.40%
Jashen V1696.18%99.55%99.60%98.57%87%
Roidmi X3094.14%99.82%99.50%99.27%83.30%
Dyson V7 MotorHead93.8%81.75%99.2%99.97%94.93%
Dyson Micro 1.5KG93.08%99.45%99.7%98.17%75%
Miele Triflex HX192.78%77.75%99.73%99.77%93.9%

You’ll notice that Dyson cordless stick vacuums dominate the top ten, which isn’t a coincidence since these products have high airflow.

Tineco products have the second-highest overall scores, making them excellent value-for-money options if Dyson products are too expensive.

Noise Comparison

Loudness is another consideration when shopping for a cordless stick vacuum.

I use a sound meter to measure noise levels a few feet away.

Here are the results.

ModelLowMidMax
DreameTech T3071.4 dB72.4 dB78.3 dB
DreameTech V1073.5 dB74 dB76.5 dB
Dyson V15 Detect70.3 dB72.3 dB80.8 dB
Dyson V11 Outsize73.5 dB75 dB78.8 dB
Dyson V11 Torque Drive66.5 dB68.7 dB78.9 dB
Dyson V10 Absolute64.1 dB71.6 dB76.7 dB
Dyson V8 Absolute62.8 dBN/A73.2 dB
Dyson V7 MotorHead64.1 dBN/A73.9 dB
Dyson Micro74.0 dBN/A78.5 dB
Dyson Omni Glide72 dBN/A76 dB
Jashen V1670.1dB72.7dB76.6 dB
LG CordZero A972.0 dBN/A79.4 dB
Miele Triflex HX177.2 dB82.8 d83.8 dB
Moosoo K1769 dBN/A71.2 dB
Roborock H770.6 dB71.9 dB76.2 dB
Roidmi X3068.5 dB71.2 dB74.1 dB
Shark Vertex Cordless IZ462H 76.3 dB78.9 dB80.8 dB
Tineco A1072.4 dBN/A77.7 dB
Tineco A1172.9 dBN/A75.4 dB
Tineco Pure One S1267.2 dBN/A70.4 dB

Unfortunately, high airflow cordless stick vacuums will be noisy. There’s no way around it.

It’s a compromise consumers need to deal with, especially if they need to clean carpets.

Run Time Comparison

Another consideration is the run time. I run each cordless stick vacuum from a full charge to empty, then time it.

ModelEcoMid/AutoBoost
Roidmi X30
Non-powered tools110:21 mins45:43 mins11:26 mins
Cleaning head82:23 minsN/A11:10 mins
Tineco Pure One S12
Non-powered tools102:42 mins
(2 batteries)
N/A21:34 mins
(2 batteries)
Cleaning head75:10 mins
(2 batteries)
N/A20:20 mins
2 batteries
Roborock H7
Non-powered tools91 mins45:19 mins8:41 mins
Cleaning head56:58 mins41:03 minsN/A
DreameTech T30
Non-powered tools91 mins.N/AN/A
Cleaning head55 mins.N/AN/A
LG CordZero A9
Cleaning head86 mins
(2 batteries)
N/A30 mins
(2 batteries)
Dyson V15 Detect
Hard Floor84:19 mins41:30 mins.N/A
Carpet56:58 mins17:23 mins11:02 mins
Dyson V11 Outsize
Hard Floor85:24 minsN/AN/A
Carpet64:26 mins22:08 mins12: 36 mins
Dyson V11 Torque Drive
Hard Floor74:58 mins46:11 mins7:14 mins
Carpet57:16 mins18:33 mins9:46 mins
Shark Vertex Cordless
Non-powered tools69:50 minsN/AN/A
Cleaning nozzle36:42 mins
(hard.floor mode)
22:58 mins
(carpet mode)
N/A
DreameTech V10
Non-powered tools64 minsN/AN/A
Cleaning head37 minsN/AN/A
Miele Triflex HX1
Non-powered tools62:43 mins62:43 mins62:43 mins
Cleaning head30:06 mins21:03 mins16: 18 mins
Dyson V10 Absolute
Non-powered tools61:59 mins31:33 mins5:07 mins
Cleaning head46:45 mins25:37 mins5:42 mins
Tineco A11
Non-powered tools52:44 mins
(2 batteries)
N/A21:16 mins
(2 batteries)
Cleaning head50 mins
(2 batteries)
N/A20:20 mins
(2 batteries)
Jashen V16
Non-powered tools44:50 minsN/A20:11 mins
Cleaning head38:51 mins21:34 mins7:14 mins
Dyson V8 Absolute
Non-powered tools41 mins.N/A7:23 mins.
Cleaning head31:33 mins.N/A8:31 mins.
Dyson V7 MotorHead
Non-powered tools32:43 mins.N/A5:45 mins.
Cleaning head27:58 mins.N/A7:07 mins.
Moosoo K17
Cleaning head30 minsN/A17:27 mins
Dyson Omni Glide
Cleaning head27 minsN/A8:58 mins
Tineco A10
Non-powered tools24:04 minsN/A6:43 mins
Cleaning head22:46 minsN/A6:20 mins
Dyson Micro 1.5KG
Cleaning head23:30 mins.N/A8:25 mins.

The Roidmi X30 and Tineco Pure One S12 ran the longest with non-powered tools (over 100 minutes).

Please note that Tineco’s run time is from the two batteries.

The Dyson V15 Detect was the best with the soft roller attachment (over 84 minutes).

Another feature to look at this the detachability of the battery.

Go with something removable, so extending the run time or replacing the battery is easier.

Where can I buy these cordless stick vacuums?

Disclaimer: I will earn a commission if you purchase from any of the links above at no extra cost, so it’s a win-win for us!

 

Recommended Reading

About the author: Garrick, the visionary behind Cordless Vacuum Guide, brings over a decade of hands-on expertise in cordless vacuum testing to his insightful reviews showcased on this platform. Beyond his passion for empowering consumers with informed choices, he cherishes precious moments with his family, exploring global cuisines and exploring different horizons with his beloved wife and son. Follow him on Youtube, Tiktok, Facebook, and Instagram.