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2025 Update: The ByPurify team is pleased to announce my updated new cheap vacuum picks for 2025.
* On special until end Sep 2025
Affordable vacuums – they’re easy on your wallet and often lightweight, making them perfect for tackling quick, everyday messes.
Sure, they might lack some of the flashy features of their pricey counterparts, but they still pack a serious punch when it comes to cleaning.
As experts in our field, we discuss the following in this article:
However, keep in mind that their longevity may be a bit questionable. Of course, your individual needs and preferences matter too.
If you're seeking the best budget-friendly option, our research suggests the ThisWorx Car Vacuum.
It's compact, efficient, and offers excellent value for money.
Are you looking for a cheap vacuum for a specific use case or requirement? Then these are the ones for you.
With seven years of hands-on experience, I've scrutinized hundreds of vacuums, dedicating hours to testing over 30 models just for this piece.
Our Chicago facilities are decked out with a medley of surfaces - from hardwood to carpet and upholstery - to measure performance objectively.
Through our rigorous process, you can be assured that every review we offer is rooted in deep experience and thorough testing, aiming to provide you with the most accurate information possible.
My research also includes:
We dive into this thorough process because we're committed to providing you with clear, comprehensive insights.
It's all about empowering your choice with reliable, unbiased information.
Cheap vacuums come in various types, like stick, handheld, and upright, with popular brands like Bissell and Dirt Devil leading the pack.
Unlike their high-end counterparts, they trade some features and longevity for affordability.
Despite sometimes lacking advanced settings, they're excellent for tackling everyday messes and their lightweight designs are a bonus.
However, based on our observations, their lifespan might be shorter and their suction power varies.
Ideal For: Car Owners
Ideal For: Frequent Travelers
Ideal For: Quick Cleanups
Ideal For: Heavy Duty Users
Ideal For: Versatile Cleaners
Ideal For: Minimalist Households
Ideal For: Small Homeowners
Ideal For: Compact Spaces
Ideal For: Elderly Users
Ideal For: Busy Families
Ideal for Hard-to-Reach Spaces
Click To Check The Latest Price
I've tested out the ThisWorx Car Vacuum, and let me tell you, its powerful suction is a game-changer.
It takes various surfaces in stride, and the filtration system? It's top-notch, capturing those fine particles like a pro.
Now, the build could be a bit sturdier, but hey, for the price you're paying, it's definitely a good deal.
Plus, you wouldn't believe how lightweight and portable this little powerhouse is - makes car cleaning a breeze.
Putting it head-to-head with competitors, it's clear that ThisWorx sucks up the competition, outdoing both the HOTOR Car Vacuum and Armor All AA255.
The Black+Decker Dustbuster is a tough contender, but ThisWorx still comes out on top with its easy use and portability.
Looking back at its roots, the ThisWorx lineage started with the TWC-01 and TWC-02 models.
The newest model really took the cake though, ramping up the suction power to new levels.
Plus, they've sorted out those past complaints about filter quality, giving us a system that's both tough and efficient.
Here are its pros, cons, and key specs you should know.
Ideal for Spot Cleaning
I've gotten to know quite a few budget-friendly vacuums in my time, and the VacLife Handheld Car Vacuum VL189 is one that stands out.
The suction power packed into this compact little gadget genuinely surprised me.
Cleaning various surfaces, especially car upholstery, was a breeze.
It's not just about power and performance either. This vacuum is so lightweight and easy to carry, you'd be amazed.
And with a price tag that's hard to beat, it's an exceptional choice for any car owner.
When I pitted it against the Black+Decker Dustbuster and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser, the VL189's superior suction power became apparent.
It even gave the ThisWorx TWC-01 a run for its money in terms of cleaning performance on different surfaces.
But what really sets the VL189 apart from the crowd is its portability - it's just so much more user-friendly.
I remember VacLife's older models, the VL182 and VL186. Comparatively, the VL189 is like a breath of fresh air.
It's not just about the increased suction power, it's the focus on portability and addressing previous criticisms about weight.
To me, that shows VacLife is a company that listens and evolves.
Ideal for Cleaning Small Messes
The suction power of the BLACK DECKER Dustbuster Handheld absolutely knocked my socks off - it's small but mighty.
It aced the cleaning test, breezing from hardwood to carpet.
What really blew me away was the top-notch filtration system - it's a game-changer for anyone dealing with allergies.
I found the Dustbuster's build robust yet lightweight, making it a breeze to move around.
And with such impressive performance, it's a real steal for the price.
Compared to the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser and the Dirt Devil Scorpion, the Dustbuster's suction power is clearly superior.
Even the Hoover ONEPWR can't compete when it comes to its filtration system that traps even the smallest particles.
And the icing on the cake?
Despite its robust performance, it's the lightest of the bunch.
Looking back at previous models like the CHV1410L and HHVI315JO42, the Dustbuster has come a long way.
With this latest version, I noticed a significant improvement in suction power.
What's more, they've upgraded the filtration system, effectively squashing earlier issues of dust leakage and allergen dispersal.
Ideal for Deep Cleaning
I have to say, the mighty suction of the Dirt Devil Scorpion Max Power Handheld really caught my eye.
It effortlessly handled stubborn dirt and debris, and let me tell you, even pet hair on carpets didn't stand a chance.
And the filtration system?
Top-notch.
It's amazing at trapping those pesky microscopic particles.
And even though it's built like a tank, it's surprisingly lightweight, making it a handy tool for quick clean-ups.
Now, when I put it up against the Black+Decker Dustbuster and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser, the Scorpion Max's suction power was in a league of its own.
Even the Hoover ONEPWR couldn't match up to its impressive filtration system.
But despite these standout features, it won't burn a hole in your pocket.
It's got an edge in the budget vacuum market, for sure.
Looking back at earlier models like the Scorpion Quick Flip and Scorpion Turbo, the latest Max Power model has come a long way.
They've really ramped up the suction capability and fixed those pesky weight and ergonomic issues.
The result?
A more user-friendly, portable, and powerful handheld vacuum.
Ideal for General Household Cleaning
I have to say, the Dirt Devil Vibe 3-in-1 really caught my attention with its potent suction, especially considering its compact size. It handled dirt on a variety of floors like a champ.
Sure, it could use some tweaks in the filtration department, but the sturdy build tells me it's built to last.
Its price is reasonable too, and it gives pretty good bang for your buck.
But what really got me was how light and portable this little thing is.
Made my cleaning jobs a breeze!
And let me tell you, this Dirt Devil holds its own in a crowd.
It's got stronger suction than the Bissell Featherweight and handles different floor types even better than the Black+Decker Airswivel.
Heck, it's even easier to tote around than the cordless Hoover Linx!
What's more, I've noticed some serious upgrades from the previous model, the Dirt Devil Simpli-Stik.
This new Vibe 3-in-1 has better suction and a much easier carry.
Talk about stepping up their game!
Do you want to know how stick vacuums compare to canister vacuums? Read this article!
Ideal for Dorm Rooms
I've had a good run with the EUREKA NES100 3-in-1 Handheld and its robust suction power had me impressed right off the bat, picking up everything in its path.
It's not just about the power though; this little guy glides from hardwood to carpet as if it's nothing.
I must admit, I was a bit let down by the filtration system that sometimes coughed up dust, but the overall build is solid and offers bang for your buck.
Even with such a sturdy build, it's lightweight and easy to carry around, perfect for those pesky corners.
Now, I've tried the Black+Decker Dustbuster and Hoover ONEPWR, but when it comes to pure suction, the EUREKA NES100 stands its ground.
Sure, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser is a whiz with pet hair, but the EUREKA model is a champ dealing with all sorts of mess.
The NES100 is built to last, edging out its competitors in the durability department.
Looking back, EUREKA has made some strides since the NES210 and NES215 models.
The NES100, with its amped-up suction, really makes up for the NES215's occasional performance hiccup.
And let me tell you, they've really knocked it out of the park with a more portable and user-friendly design, ironing out the NES210's kinks in handling.
Ideal for House & Car
Testing the Black and Decker Hand Vacuum, I was struck by its powerful suction right off the bat.
It zips from hardwood to carpet without a hitch, really showing off its cleaning chops.
It's small, sure, but it's got this filtration system that traps even the smallest specks.
When you feel the sturdy build and see how well it holds up, you'll know it's money well spent.
Plus, it's surprisingly light - it's a breeze to move around the house.
Now, up against the competition, the Black and Decker Hand Vacuum leaves the Dirt Devil Simpli-Stik in the dust, literally.
Sure, Bissell's Featherweight is light, but the Black and Decker is just as portable, if not more.
And the Eureka Blaze? It's handy, but its filtration system can't quite keep up with the Black and Decker.
Looking back at the old Black and Decker models, like the Dustbuster and Lithium Flexi, you can see how far they've come.
The Dustbuster was great to carry around, but the new model's suction is in a different league.
The Lithium Flexi was pretty good at filtration, but the latest model is just way better, really nailing down on those pesky dust leaks.
Ideal for Minor Messes
Honestly, for a mini handheld vacuum, the BISSELL AeroSlim really packs some power.
It's pretty slick at spot cleaning on hard surfaces, though thicker materials do give it a bit of a struggle.
Now, the filtration system could do with some fine-tuning - it's a tad prone to clogging and needs regular cleaning.
But I've got to tell you, the sturdy build on this thing, despite it being so lightweight, that was a pleasant surprise!
Summing it up, if you're after a quick clean-up tool, you're getting your money's worth with this one.
Now let's chat about portability - that's where the BISSELL AeroSlim truly takes the cake.
It's sleeker than the Black+Decker Dustbuster and feels much lighter than the Eureka EasyClean.
As for the Shark WV201, it's a tight race, but the AeroSlim just nudges it out with its more compact build.
Over the years, I've seen several updates to the BISSELL AeroSlim.
The latest version, the BISSELL AeroSlim 2, brought several improvements to the table - a longer cord, a bigger dust cup, and a more powerful motor.
Plus, they've ironed out a few wrinkles from the earlier models, like making it easier to empty the dust cup and introducing a HEPA filter.
Ideal For Medium-Sized Homes
Just got my hands on the Bissell Featherweight, and boy, is it great for portability.
It's small, but don't be fooled - the suction is surprisingly strong.
It cleans most floor types well, though it does stumble a bit with thicker carpets.
The filtration isn't top of the line, but it does the job.
The build seems sturdy and for the price, you're getting a real bang for your buck.
Putting it against others in its league, like the Dirt Devil Simpli-Stik and Eureka Blaze, the Featherweight's suction steals the show.
It also outshines the Black+Decker Dustbuster with its nifty stick and handheld functions.
In terms of durability, it holds its own, proving it's a strong contender in the budget vacuum arena.
Taking a trip down memory lane to the Featherweight 2033 model, the latest version is clearly an upgrade.
It's really upped the ante in suction power, managing debris more effectively.
Plus, they've fine-tuned the design, making it easier to handle and move around.
I must say, they've done a solid job refining the Featherweight experience.
Ideal For Frequent Cleaning
After giving the Black and Decker Dustbuster Quick Clean a whirl, I was floored by its powerful suction - it breezes through cleaning tasks like a champ.
It didn't matter if it was hardwood, tile, or carpet, this little device managed it all effortlessly.
And let's talk about that filtration system - it's spot on at trapping dust and allergens.
Add to that a sturdy, durable build that feels like good value for money.
But what truly surprised me? How light it is! This thing is super portable, and it doesn't drop the ball on performance either.
Now, stacking it up against competitors like the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser and the Dirt Devil Scorpion, our Dustbuster takes the lead with its superior suction power.
Sure, the Eureka EasyClean is light, but it still can't beat the Dustbuster in the weight department.
And none of them could go toe-to-toe with the Dustbuster when it comes to its filtration system.
I've had my hands on the older models too, the Dustbuster 16V and 14.4V.
The latest Quick Clean model is a clear step up. They've addressed the suction power issue from the past models, and it shows.
Plus, the battery life has gotten a nice boost, and the filtration system is even better.
It's clear they're paying attention to what users like us have to say.
In our quest to find the ultimate budget vacuum, we also put the Armor All AA255 Wet & Dry Vacuum, the Stanley SL18910P-3 Wet/Dry, and the Powools Car Vacuum to the test, but, regrettably, they didn't quite clinch a spot in our top picks.
After evaluating the Powools Car Vacuum, I can report that its suction strength is just about passable, but definitely leaves room for improvement.
The vacuum's design could use some rethinking, especially when it comes to the dirt cup design - dirt tends to sit in the nozzle and can fall out if the vacuum is jostled, which is far from ideal.
On a positive note, the LED light feature is notably useful, the battery life seems decent, and the crevice tool does come in handy, but overall, it feels like this vacuum might be more suited for light, sporadic use rather than regular, heavy-duty cleaning.
Having put the Stanley SL18910P-3 Wet/Dry Vacuum to the test, I must say, it offers remarkable suction power for its price point.
However, it falls short in areas like the exhaust port, which, lacking a muzzle, is as loud as a jet engine and can kick up dust before you have a chance to vacuum it.
The hose is rather inflexible and short, while the foam filter system feels a bit cheap and is not as easy to manipulate as one might hope.
The Armor All AA255 Wet & Dry Vacuum performs adequately for small, light debris cleanup tasks, but struggles when faced with heavier, stickier substances like wet food particles on upholstery.
It falls short on its wet vacuuming capabilities, particularly in situations of minor flooding, as it requires frequent emptying after approximately half a gallon of water, a process that can become quite tedious.
The vacuum's various attachments and storage capacities are a mixed bag, with some proving useful and convenient, like the small detailing brush, while others, like the large wand and larger brushed attachment, prove to be cumbersome and less effective.
Based on our firsthand experience, you might want to steer clear of the Eureka Home 3-in-1 Handheld Vac and the CRAFTSMAN 2.5 Gallon Wet/Dry Portable Vac—they've both not lived up to expectations.
As someone who's tested the Eureka Home 3-in-1 Handheld Vac, I can tell you, it's not all roses.
The motor gave out within seven months and the handle could have fried an egg with how hot it got.
And don't get me started on their customer service – let's just say it's a bit of a merry-go-round!
After giving the CRAFTSMAN 2.5 Gallon Wet/Dry Portable Vac a thorough run, I've got to say, it's a letdown.
The suction's pretty weak, the hose is awkwardly short, and the material isn't up to par—it's deformed in no time!
And trust me, reaching out for support is like pulling teeth—you're just sent in circles with little help.
Fins out what to look for in a vacuum cleaner by reading this article.
The ThisWorx Car Vacuum is my top recommendation, and here's why.
Its powerful suction deals with diverse surfaces effortlessly, making cleaning a breeze.
The filtration system shines, capturing fine particles like no other.
Although the build could be sturdier, it's incredibly lightweight and portable. Given the price, this vacuum offers a remarkable deal!
Hey there! So basically, I put these vacuums through their paces, testing everything from their suction power on different messes and surfaces, to how tough they are when dropped, and even how loud they get. Plus, I also got hands-on, maneuvering them around furniture and giving their extra features a whirl to see if they really do make our cleaning life easier.
And you know what? I didn’t stop there – I also dived into heaps of user feedback and checked out what other experts had to say, to make sure we’re getting the full picture.
Hey there! When it comes to picking a cheap vacuum, it’s not just about the price tag – you want to consider everything from how well it sucks up dirt and how easy it is to handle, to its noise level, additional features, and how often you’ll need to empty it. And of course, let’s not forget about its durability, filtration, cord or battery situation, and whether it gives you a good bang for your buck.
You know, by weighing up these key factors, you’ll be able to pinpoint the a vacuum that’s not just cheap, but also meets your specific needs and makes your cleaning routine a breeze.
From my experience, these eight factors – suction power, filtration system, weight, cord length, dust bin capacity, noise level, included accessories, and warranty period – play a key role in determining the performance and suitability of a cheap vacuum. They’re the measurable “make-or-break” aspects that can help you discern a truly great budget-friendly vacuum from an underperformer.
Of course, these aren’t the only factors to consider – remember, the perfect vacuum for you should match your specific cleaning needs and lifestyle!
In my experience, each of these alternatives to a cheap vacuum has its own unique strengths – from the effortless convenience of robotic vacuums, the power of uprights, the versatility of canister and stick models, to the quick clean-up capability of handhelds. The choice really depends on your personal needs, the layout and size of your home, and of course, your budget.
Remember, there’s a whole world of vacuum types out there – your perfect match depends on your unique needs and living situation!
In my experience, you can find a wide range of options in the world of cheap vacuums, from budget models costing between $30 and $60, to mid-range options that range from $60 to $150, all the way up to higher-end alternatives within the “cheap” category, priced between $150 and $200. Each price bracket offers different levels of functionality and features, but overall, they all provide a cost-effective solution for maintaining cleanliness in your home.
Remember, it’s not just about the price tag – finding the right vacuum really comes down to your personal needs and home setup!
Cheap vacuums offer affordability, simplicity, and compact design, making them an excellent choice for many households. They are ideal for those on a tight budget or those who don’t want to spend a lot on a vacuum. They are simple to operate, with no complicated settings or user manuals.
Cheap vacuums are lightweight and compact, making them easy to maneuver around the home and take up less storage space. While they may not compete with high-end models, they can often perform day-to-day cleaning tasks with less elbow grease. Additionally, cheap vacuums often have lower repair and maintenance costs, making them an excellent choice for those with limited storage space.
Cheap vacuums may not be the ideal choice for everyone, but they may not offer the same level of performance and durability as their more expensive counterparts. Higher-end vacuums have stronger suction power and versatility, making them better at handling various surfaces.
Cheap vacuums may struggle with more challenging tasks and are more prone to breakage. Despite this, they can still be suitable for certain situations, such as smaller spaces or tight budgets. However, if you need strong performance on various surfaces and a long-lasting product, investing in a pricier model upfront can be more beneficial. Remember, investing in your home’s cleanliness can save you money in the long run.
In terms of affordable yet reliable vacuum brands, I’d say you can’t go wrong with Bissell, Dirt Devil, Shark, or Eureka – they each have solid options to suit various needs and budgets.
As a general rule of thumb, with typical home use and assuming you keep it in decent shape, an inexpensive vacuum cleaner should last you roughly around 2 to 3 years. Remember, this is just an average, so individual experiences can vary quite a bit!
Taking the time to review key factors like your specific needs, budget, and product features really helps ensure you land on the vacuum that fits your lifestyle, giving you the most bang for your buck.
As an expert, I can’t stress this enough – maintaining your cheap vacuum is crucial as it not only extends its lifespan but also ensures it operates efficiently, saving you time, effort, and money in the long run!
Lastly, always refer to the owner’s manual for specific instructions on maintaining your specific vacuum model. Following these guidelines should help keep your vacuum in tip-top shape for years to come.
As a cleaning aficionado, I can tell you that regularly cleaning your vacuum isn’t just about cleanliness, it’s essential to keeping your vacuum running efficiently and extending its lifespan.
After examining over 30 budget vacuums, I found the ThisWorx Car Vacuum to be the finest performer. Its power and reliability set it apart.
VacLife's Handheld Car Vacuum VL189 impressed me with its robust suction and user-friendly design.
The BLACK DECKER Dustbuster Handheld stands out for its impressive battery life and efficient cleaning ability.
These three models outshone the competition, offering excellent value for the money.
I'm currently testing several new, inexpensive vacuum releases at our Chicago facility.
They include models from top brands like Hoover, Bissell, and Eureka. Stay tuned, I look forward to sharing the results soon!
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Their rigorous evaluations compel us to maintain a standard of excellence, ensuring that the information we provide is both reliable and of the highest quality.
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Our content is crafted with care by the ByPurify editorial team. Views expressed in our reviews are the personal opinions of the authors and have not been reviewed or endorsed by any advertiser. We maintain a strict commitment to editorial independence and fairness. When we publish rates, terms, and fees associated with the products we review, we ensure that they are up-to-date to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication.
