Traditional upright vacuums are bulky and awkward — and they can make your back hurt. Switching to a backpack model can take the strain off and make vacuuming a breeze.
Backpack vacuum cleaners are more comfortable and ergonomic, so you can work longer with less pain. Plus, you can clean hard-to-reach areas more easily than with an upright vacuum. Since backpack vacuums are easy to maneuver, there’s no more straining and twisting!
We’ve put together a list of the 6 best backpack vacuums to make your cleaning job easier.
Our Top Picks
The HouseWire earns a commission through the following independently chosen links at no additional cost to you.| Best Carpet Cleaners of 2023 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Best Overall Hoover Commercial Backpack Vacuum |
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 | Most Versatile ProTeam CoachVac Backpack Vacuum |
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 | Best Budget Atrix Backpack Vacuum |
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 | Best High-End Milwaukee Cordless Backpack Vacuum |
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 | Best Lightweight Prolux 2.0 Lightweight Backpack Vacuum |
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 | Quietest Powr-Flite Pro Backpack Vacuum |
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Are Backpack Vacuums Any Good?
Yes, backpack vacuum cleaners are great tools for many reasons.
Ergonomic
Professional cleaners are at risk for musculoskeletal disorders because their work requires them to remain in awkward positions for extended periods of time (1). The ergonomic design of backpack vacuum cleaners means that you don’t have to bend, push or strain as you would with a traditional canister or upright model.
And since the vacuum is on your back, you can stand upright. This means that the weight of the vacuum is evenly distributed across your frame, and you can move naturally.
The frame of the backpack itself is also designed to be lightweight. And it has an adjustable harness. By adjusting the straps, you can make the vacuum sit comfortably on your back so that your spine is in a neutral position.
Finally, because you’re in a more natural position, you don’t need to make as many exaggerated movements, like arm and leg extensions.
Easy To Maneuver
This is especially useful if you’re cleaning somewhere like a cinema or an auditorium, where a traditional vacuum wouldn’t fit.
Efficient
In addition to the vacuum cleaner itself, the way you work is more efficient than with a canister or upright machine. Because the weight of the vacuum cleaner is evenly distributed over your frame, you’re able to move more easily and naturally.
Thanks to this freedom of motion, productivity increases when you use a backpack vac.
The leading trade association for the cleaning industry, ISSA, did a study comparing two similar vacuums — one was an upright and one was a backpack. The upright machine cleaned 3,240 square feet per hour, and the backpack vacuum cleaner cleaned 7,407 square feet per hour. That’s more than twice as efficient (2).
And if you have a cordless model, you don’t have to worry about working around a power cord. This also increases mobility and productivity.
Safe
And since they don’t have any wheels, you won’t accidentally damage a floor or baseboard.
Low Maintenance
That means that with a commercial backpack vacuum, you’ll save money in the long run because there are fewer parts that will get jammed, wear out, or break down.
Types of Backpack Vacuums
There are two questions to ask yourself when buying a commercial backpack vacuum. First, do you want it to have a power cord? And second, do you want it to have a bag?
Corded backpack vacuums are the most common type. They get power from an outlet rather than a battery.
Because they are plugged into a socket, they can reliably run for hours at a time and they have great suction power. This makes them an excellent choice for industrial use or large areas, particularly with carpets.
Although the cords tend to be quite long on these models, these vacuums must be plugged in to run. You need to make sure not to trip over your cable, and you may need to move the plug if you change rooms.
A great example of this type of vacuum is the ProTeam Super CoachVac.
- Vacuum for as long as you like
- Strong suction that doesn’t decrease over time
- Needs to be plugged and unplugged as you clean different areas
As the name suggests, these vacuums run on batteries, rather than a cord. This is great if you’re moving through many different spaces. That’s because you don’t need to keep plugging and unplugging your backpack vacuum cleaner. You also don’t have to worry about tripping over the cord.
Because these vacuums use batteries, your run time is limited. Additionally, you may lose suction as your battery runs down.
This Makita backpack vac uses lithium-ion batteries instead of a cord
- No need to plug or unplug the vacuum as you clean
- No tripping over extension cords
- Limited battery runtime
A bagged backpack vacuum cleaner collects dirt and dust in reusable or disposable bags that you can empty or toss when full.
Since the debris is in a sealed bag, they’re more hygienic than bagless models. And you don’t need to clean the vacuum’s filter as often.
But since you need to keep replacing your bags, this adds a bit of an extra cost. Plus, these models are not as environmentally friendly as the bagless ones.
This Oreck vacuum uses disposable bags for sanitary efficient cleaning.
- Requires less maintenance
- Great for people with allergies
- Need to buy bags
- Disposable bags are less environmentally-friendly
Bagless vacuums trap dirt in the canister of the vacuum itself, rather than in a bag. When the canister is full, you open the top and empty the debris into the garbage.
Since you don’t need to buy bags, there are no extra costs associated with the backpack vacuum cleaner. And you can see into the canister, so it’s easy to know when to empty the debris.
Unfortunately, the dirt is not sealed in a bag. So dust and allergens can be released into the air or onto your hands when you empty the canister.
For example, this Hoover commercial lightweight backpack vacuum can hold 6.4 quarts of debris. And it has a clear, domed lid so that you can see when the canister needs to be emptied.
- Less expensive because you don’t need to buy new bags
- Easy to know when to empty the debris
- Exposure to allergens
Things To Consider When Purchasing a Backpack Vacuum Cleaner
Here are the key features to consider when finding the best backpack vacuum.
Capacity
We recommend opting for a smaller backpack vacuum, such as a 6-quart machine — it will be powerful. But it will also be more comfortable and easier to handle.
Weight
CFM or Airflow
Make sure you choose a model with a high CFM to ensure you’re removing as much dirt as possible. Some vacuums have lower CFM, like this Makita, which runs at 70 CFM. This ProTeam, however, is much stronger and runs at 150 CFM.
Air Filtration
Most backpack vacuums have multiple filtration systems to keep dust and particles out of the air. Vacuums with a higher number of filtration stages, such as those with four-stage systems, will keep more debris out of the air than those with fewer.
Also, keep an eye out for the HEPA filtration system. These HEPA filters are highly efficient at preventing particles from becoming airborne by capturing 99.97% of allergens.
Run Time
For example, this Prolux battery powered backpack vacuum comes with two batteries that last 30 minutes each. In contrast, this Makita comes with only one battery. But it will last for 116 minutes on the normal setting and 33 minutes on the “Max” setting.
If you need to work for a longer period of time, you’ll either need to invest in additional (or more powerful) batteries. Or you should consider a corded vacuum.
And remember, the suction power of the vacuum may decrease as the battery begins to run down.
Cord Length
If you’re cleaning bigger spaces, ensure you have enough length to move around the entire room without needing to plug and unplug the vacuum.
This Prolux has a 50-foot extension cord, whereas this backpack vac only has a 35-foot cord.
Bag or Bagless
If you’re prone to dust or allergies, using a bagged model will be better. For example, when emptied, this GV Backpack Vac will keep more debris out of the air than a bagless vacuum.
On the other hand, bagless models like this Prolux are cheaper because you don’t need to keep replacing the bags.
Harness
Keep an eye out for models that advertise a “comfort-fit.” These vacuums will have a padded, adjustable shoulder harness. And also belt to fit securely and comfortably on your body.
Some harnesses will also come with tool belts, so you can conveniently carry everything with you and increase your productivity.
Ergonomically-designed backpacks will help you work for longer with less pain. This one from Hoover was even designed by a chiropractor.
Attachments
Make sure you take a look at all of the accessories offered. And see which ones will be most useful to you based on the type of cleaning you’re doing.
This Atrix, for example, comes with a lot of tools, including a crevice tool and an upholstery tool.
Noise
Look for vacuums that produce about 70 dB of sound or lower, as these will cause minimal discomfort.
According to HealthLink BC, a regular vacuum cleaner produces around 75 dB of sound (3). However, some models produce less — for example, this one from ProTeam has a quiet mode where it only produces 51 dB.
Remember, you can always wear earplugs, too.
Warranty
Warranties usually cover problems with the material, construction, or workmanship of a backpack vac. However, they may not include damage from improper use, drops, or normal wear and tear.
Warranties differ by backpack vacuum and manufacturer. For example, this ProTeam has a 3-year limited warranty, but this Hoover commercial is only covered for 2 years.
Always check the warranty length and details on the manufacturer’s website. It’s also a good idea to make sure you have the manufacturer’s contact information in case something goes wrong.
The Best Backpack Vacuums Of 2023
Now that we’ve covered the basics, here’s our list of the top 6 backpack vacuums. We’ve spent hours comparing different brands and models to help you find the perfect one.
1. Hoover Commercial Backpack Vacuum
When your back is aching from dragging around your old upright vacuum, it’s time to try a backpack model. That will ease the strain on your body plus make it easier to vacuum hard-to-reach areas. This model from a reputable brand combines value, quality, and compactness.
This backpack vacuum is extremely comfortable because the harness was designed by a chiropractor. This means you can work for long periods of time without back pain.
Weighing under 10 pounds, this vacuum is a comfortable size to carry. But that doesn’t mean it’s weak — with 120 CFM it has great suction power for its size.
It also comes with a 48-foot extension cord so you don’t have to interrupt your work to search for outlets.
What We Like
Extremely Quiet
Even though it’s a powerful machine, this vacuum doesn’t make a lot of noise. Customers loved how quiet it is — one even used it in a barn and it didn’t scare the horses!2-Year Warranty
Hoover offers a 2-year limited warranty on this machine. So if your machine breaks within that time, Hoover will repair or replace the defective part for free. Some exceptions do apply, however. For example, they won’t cover accidents or damage to brushes, flat belts, or filters.HEPA Filtration System
This backpack vac uses a HEPA filter, which helps keep dust and dirt particles from entering the air. Customers are pleased with how well the backpack vacuum keeps dust inside the vacuum canister and out of the air!Check our list of The Best HEPA Vacuums.
What We Don’t Like
Weak Plastic
Some users have complained that the plastic accessories of the backpack vacuum are poorly made, and some said that they break easily.Needs Accessory Belt
This model comes with a great assortment of accessories, but some users were frustrated with trying to manage them all. You would need to find your own way to store and carry the extra tools while you work.Technical Specs
| Capacity | 6.4 quarts |
| Weight | 9.2 pounds |
| Included Accessories | Locking hose, crevice tool, turbo floor tool,dusting brush, and upholstery tool |
| Extra Features | HEPA filter |
| Sound Level | 66 dB |
| Air Flow | 120 CFM |
| Cord Length | 48 feet |
| Run Time: | N/A |
| Warranty | 2 years |
| Ideal for | Hardwood floors, Pet hair & pet dander, Dusting |
2. ProTeam Super CoachVac Backpack Vacuum
Cinemas, theaters, stadiums, and other large spaces can be very tricky to clean with a traditional upright vacuum. That’s when backpack vacuums come to the rescue. For these spaces, you need something with a large capacity that is still manageable to use.
With a 10-quart large capacity and 6 accessories, this ProTeam model is great for cleaning large areas. Thanks to its multi-surface floor tool, you can clean any surface, from carpets to wood and tiles.
The four-stage filtration system, which includes a HEPA filter, ensures that your air quality remains excellent.
Like the Hoover model above, this backpack vacuum also has a 50-foot extension power cord to make sure you can reach every nook and cranny you need to.
What We Like
Long-Lasting
Customers love how long these vacuums last. They’re a great value because they’ll give you many years of good use.Great Suction
According to many reviewers, this model has great suction. So it will make sure everything is nice and clean — even carpeting.Large Capacity
This model boasts a 10-quart capacity, so it can hold a lot of dirt. That means you can clean for longer without needing to stop and empty it.What We Don’t Like
Hose and Tools Disconnect
Some users have found that the hose or attachments disconnect from the vacuum while they’re cleaning. This means your job might take longer because you need to keep fussing with the end of the backpack vacuum while you’re working.Not Useful for Small Areas
This model is intended as a commercial vacuum, so it’s great for cleaning large spaces. However, it can be a bit unwieldy in smaller areas.Technical Specs
| Capacity | 10 quarts |
| Weight | 11 pounds |
| Included Accessories | Professional flexible hose, 2 Intercept micro filter bags, Xover performance floor tool, crevice tool, two-piece wand, soft dusting brush, upholstery tool |
| Extra Features | HEPA filter |
| Sound Level | 66 dB |
| Air Flow | N/A |
| Cord Length | 50 feet |
| Run Time: | N/A |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Ideal for | Convention centers, Meeting halls, Stadiums, High traffic areas |
3. Atrix Backpack Vacuum
A comfortable clean doesn’t need to cost a fortune. This Atrix backpack vacuum will help you work better without breaking the bank.
This comfortable backpack can be converted for right-handed or left-handed people, so if you need to share it around, anyone can use it.
The HEPA filter keeps your air sparkling clean.
The Atrix is a great multi-purpose tool because it quickly converts into a blower — and comes with three extra blower nozzles.
What We Like
Affordable Price
This model boasts some great features, including a HEPA filtration system, for a reasonable price. So you can get a great clean at a fraction of the cost.Quiet
The Atrix is a reasonably quiet machine, although you should still wear earplugs.Easy-to-Use Attachments
The attachments for this model are very easy to change. And the belt strap even has slots for your tools so you can carry them easily.What We Don’t Like
A Bit Bulky
Customers have complained that this model feels bulky and isn’t great for tight spaces. It may be more suitable for commercial areas or large residences.Low Quality
While this model comes with a great price tag, some customers have had trouble with parts breaking.Cord Not Included
The cord length on this backpack vacuum is approximately 2 feet. You will need to add an extension power cord, but this comes at an extra cost.Technical Specs
| Capacity | 8 quarts |
| Weight | 10.3 pounds |
| Included Accessories | 6’ vacuum hose, blower adapter, exhaust filter cover, extension wand, multiple nozzle sets, crevice tool, 2 brushes, shakeout bag, filter sets, set of 3 hose and filter plugs. |
| Extra Features | Belt loop storage, HEPA filter |
| Sound Level | N/A |
| Air Flow | 106 CFM |
| Cord Length | Approximately 2 feet |
| Run Time: | N/A |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Ideal for | Stairs, Draperies,Blinds |
4. Milwaukee Cordless Backpack Vacuum
When you have lots of different areas to clean, you need something that is both versatile and powerful. That’s where this Milwaukee model shines.
This cordless backpack vacuum can be worn on your back, held in your hand, placed on the ground, or hung from ladders or railings.
The Milwaukee has both a HEPA filtration and a dust extraction adapter. So it will keep most debris out of the air.
Designed for job sites, this backpack vacuum has a powerful motor and cyclonic design. It provides two times more power than traditional job site vacuums.
What We Like
Great Suction
The two speeds on this model mean that you can flip back and forth between conserving battery life and extra suction. And even when the canister is ¾ full, this cordless backpack vacuum keeps sucking.Worth the Money
Despite the relatively high price tag, customers are pleased with the functionality of this commercial backpack vacuum. The suction power combined with the versatility makes it worth the money.Easy to Clean
Since this is a bagless style, cleaning the canister is very easy. It only takes seconds to empty, getting you back to work sooner.What We Don’t Like
Low Run Time
Users noted that when used on the “high” mode or with low Ah batteries, the run time is really short. It’s a good idea to buy a spare battery so that if yours dies, you’ll have a replacement ready to go.Some users also opt for higher Ah batteries, which will give you a longer run time.
Limited Attachments
Compared to other brands, this commercial backpack vacuum doesn’t offer as many accessories. The ones they do provide work well. But if you’re looking for specific tools, you might need a different backpack vacuum.Problems with Fine Material
Some customers have reported that fine materials, such as drywall or cement dust, will clog the filter really easily. This HEPA backpack vacuum may be better for cleaning larger particles, such as sawdust.Technical Specs
| Capacity | 1 gallon |
| Weight | 15.25 pounds |
| Included Accessories | 8.0 Ah battery, rapid battery charger, flexible hose, telescoping extension wand, floor tool, crevice tool, dust extraction adapter |
| Extra Features | HEPA filter, removable harness |
| Sound Level | 76 dB |
| Air Flow | 55 CFM |
| Cord Length | N/A |
| Run Time: | 25 min on “high” mode, 40 min on “low” mode |
| Warranty | 5 years |
| Ideal for | Job sites, Hard floors |
5. Prolux 2.0 Lightweight Commercial Backpack Vacuum
Wearing a backpack vacuum for a long time can put a lot of strain on your body. But the lighter the backpack, the less discomfort you will feel. And especially if you’re small, you need smaller tools.
This Prolux model only weighs 9 pounds, but it’s still 40 times more powerful than standard vacuums.
This lightweight backpack vacuum has a HEPA filtration to keep the air clean, and it also has a “vortex chamber” to keep dust away from the filter. This means the filter won’t clog easily.
Read Next The 6 Best Lightweight Vacuum Cleaners in 2023
What We Like
Compact and Comfortable
If you’re on the shorter side or with health issues such as arthritis, this lightweight backpack vacuum is really useful. It’s more comfortable than some of the larger, bulkier options.Great Suction
Even though it’s a lighter model, this HEPA backpack vacuum will still pull up all the debris you need to get rid of. With 125 CFM, it’s a pretty powerful machine.Quick Customer Service
For users who had problems with their machines, Prolux customer service responded promptly.What We Don’t Like
Filter Clogs Easily
Even though this model has a “vortex chamber,” some users have complained that the filter clogs easily. This, in turn, decreases suction power. A clogged filter can also make your vacuum overheat, so make sure you keep the filter clean.Not For Really Dirty Jobs
Some users have had trouble with the reliability of this backpack vacuum cleaner. This model may be more suited for light cleaning or home use, rather than for contractors on job sites.Technical Specs
| Capacity | N/A |
| Weight | 9 pounds |
| Included Accessories | Hardfloor tool, carpet tool, upholstery tool with removable bristles, crevice tool, dusting brush, telescopic wand, tool adapter, 1.5” diameter hose |
| Extra Features | HEPA filter |
| Sound Level | 70 dB |
| Air Flow | 125 CFM |
| Cord Length | 35 feet |
| Run Time: | N/A |
| Warranty | 5 year motor, 3 year body |
| Ideal for | Home use,Janitorial service |
6. Powr-Flite Comfort Pro Backpack Vacuum
Vacuuming can be a noisy — even painful — task. Finding a quiet vacuum like this Power-Flite can make a huge difference in your comfort while working.
This backpack vacuum operates at only 62 dB, which is much quieter than other models.
The harness is specially designed by Deuter, a hiking and backpacking company, so it is extremely comfortable. It’s also made with a breathable mesh so that you don’t overheat while cleaning.
This model has not only a HEPA filter, but also a 5-stage filtration system to keep particles out of the air.
What We Like
Comfortable Harness
Users love this vacuum for its comfortable harness. It has a lot of different adjustment straps, which means it can be fitted to multiple body types.Reliable
Customers mention how sturdy and dependable this backpack vacuum is. Many users reported that they were very happy using this model for their cleaning companies.Picks Up Everything
Customers are very happy with the suction power of this model, especially pet owners. This backpack vac can pick up everything from sand to cat litter to pet hair.What We Don’t Like
Quite Heavy
Some customers complained that this model is a bit awkward to use due to the weight. At 16 pounds, it is significantly heavier than some of the other models listed above.No Cooling Mechanism
This unit does not have a cooling mechanism, so some customers have complained that the machine and power cord overheat.Technical Specs
| Capacity | 6 quarts |
| Weight | 16 pounds |
| Included Accessories | 50’ power cord, 2 HEPA filter bags, standard vacuum bag, 2 section bend wand, 4’ crush-proof hose, 14” carpet tool, 14” Power-Glide carpet tool, 14” hard floor tool, 5” upholstery tool, 3” dusting tool, 17” crevice tool |
| Extra Features | HEPA filter |
| Sound Level | 62 dB |
| Air Flow | 130 CFM |
| Cord Length | 50 feet |
| Run Time: | N/A |
| Warranty | 3 years |
| Ideal for | Indoor commercial cleaning, Hard floors (hardwood floors),Upholstery,Dusting |
Backpack Vacuum Comparison Chart
| Product | Capacity | Weight | Sound Level | Air Flow | Cord Length | Extra Features | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoover Commercial Backpack Vacuum | 6.4 quarts | 9.2 pounds | 66 dB | 120 CFM | 48 feet | HEPA filter | Hardwood floors, Pet hair & pet dander, Dusting |
| ProTeam CoachVac Backpack Vacuum | 10 quarts | 11 pounds | 66 dB | N/A | 50 feet | HEPA filter | Convention centers, Meeting halls, Stadiums, High traffic areas |
| Atrix Backpack Vacuum | 8 quarts | 10.3 pounds | N/A | 106 CFM | Approximately 2 feet | Belt loop storage, HEPA filter | Convention centers, Meeting halls, Stadiums, High traffic areas |
| Milwaukee Cordless Backpack Vacuum | 1 gallon | 15.25 pounds | 76 dB | 55 CFM | N/A | HEPA filter, removable harness | Stairs, Draperies,Blinds |
| Prolux 2.0 Lightweight Backpack Vacuum | N/A | 9 pounds | 70 dB | 125 CFM | 35 feet | HEPA filter | Stairs, Draperies,Blinds |
| Powr-Flite Comfort Backpack Vacuum | 6 quarts | 16 pounds | 62 dB | 130 CFM | 50 feet | HEPA filter | Stairs, Draperies,Blinds |
Portable Power and Cleaning Convenience
When you spend a lot of time cleaning, you want your experience to be as comfortable and efficient as possible. Traditional upright and canister vacuums are awkward to maneuver and can even cause long-term health problems.
Backpack vacuums, however, are more efficient and easier on your body. They are also low-maintenance.
When comparing backpack vacuums, remember the four options: corded, cordless, bagged, and bagless. Also, think about how much power you need and how much weight you can carry. And don’t forget about extra details like HEPA filters, all the accessories, and warranties.
There’s a lot to think about, but with our list of the best backpack vacuums, we know you’ll find the perfect one to improve your cleaning experience.
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