The Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaners in 2023

Handheld vacuums are lightweight and portable to tackle messes in tricky areas. It can be a real faff to get your bigger vacuum out just to get some dirt and pet hair off the couch cushions.

From classic corded models to cordless ones powered by lithium-ion batteries, there’s a handheld vac for every job. Whether it’s for cleaning the car seats or keeping on top of spills in your home.

We’ll guide you through everything you need to know about these useful appliances and look at the best handheld vacuum for your needs.

Our Top Picks

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Image	Model	Features	Best Handheld Vacuums of 2023
	Best All-Purpose BLACK+DECKER 20V	Picks up pet mess. Durable Battery. Powerful Suction.	Check Price
	Best Value Dirt Devil Scorpion	Great size for college dorms. Eeasy to Clean Filters. Comes With Lot of accessories.	Check Price
	Best for Quick Cleanups Black+Decker 16V DustBuster	Very long battery life. Durable Battery. Picks up debris of all size.	Check Price
	Best Plug-in Shark Hand Vac (HV292)	Solid and well-made. Great for all kinds of small messes.	Check Price
	Best Mini Eufy HomeVac H11	Easy to maneuver. Super lightweight.	Check Price
	Best for Big Jobs Worx WX030L	Two-stage filter. Multiples power settings. Flexible nozzle.	Check Price
	Best for Pet Hair Hoover ONEPWR	Big dust cup. Batteries swappable. Crevice tool Included.	Check Price
	Best for Cars BISSELL Multi Auto	Compact design. Lightweight. Easy to maneuver.	Check Price
	Best Wet/Dry DEWALT Wet/Dry Vacuum	Useful for home or workshop. Strong suction. Well-built and sturdy.	Check Price

What to Look for in a Handheld Vacuum

Let’s run through some of the features to consider when choosing a handheld vacuum.

Types

There are two types of handheld vacuum for you to choose between.

• First up is the standard size for home use. You can hold it in one hand, so it’s convenient to grab and go for quick spot cleaning. Or if you want a compact unit for the car.
• Otherwise, you can get a commercial-size handheld vac. They tend to have a bigger capacity and stronger suction for tackling larger messes. They use a hose, so require two hands, but will often come with a shoulder strap to make it easier to maneuver.

Corded or Cordless

How you want to use your handheld vacuum will determine whether corded or cordless is best for you.

Corded handheld vacuums don’t have a limited run time, so they’re better for bigger homes. But they aren’t as convenient thanks to the power cord. It trails around after you and you also need to find a power outlet for it.

The Bissell Cleanview Deluxe is an example of one of the best corded handheld vacuum.

A cordless vacuum is more convenient to grab and go. But you do have to factor in battery life.

Some cordless handheld vacuums have a battery indicator so it doesn’t surprise you and cut out when you’re halfway through cleaning.

The Dyson V7 Trigger is a cordless vacuum option.

Suction Power

Suction power is measured in different ways across the industry, so it’s hard to compare different handheld vacuums.

You’ll see amp, RPM, and Pa mentioned, but these refer to the motor speed or how much electricity it uses. CFM relates to airflow, and better vacuums tend to have higher CFM ratings.

You might also come across Airwatts, which is how Dyson measures the suction power of their vacuum cleaners.

So overall, it’s tricky to know how to measure one vacuum against another.

For example, this handheld Bissell Pet Hair Eraser only mentions 4 amps.

Battery

The battery run time will have an impact on the best handheld vacuum for you. You should compare both run times and charge times of cordless models. Around 15-20 minutes is how long you’d expect a lithium-ion battery to last.

But charge times can be as long as 6 hours, so it’s worth taking this into account and finding a quicker one if you don’t want to wait.

For example, the BISSELL AeroSlim runs for 12 minutes and takes 3.5 hours to charge.

Weight

Seeing as handheld vacuums are about convenience, you want them to be light enough to use with one hand.

The best lightweight handheld vacuum weighs around 3-4 pounds, but you can find even lighter versions.

The Shark WANDVAC handheld vacuum is just 1.4 pounds.

Capacity

The capacity is how much waste the dust bin holds. The larger it is, the less you need to empty it, which will save you time.

But handheld vacuums are designed to combat small spills and quick cleanups, so the capacity won’t be as big as a full-size vacuum.

For example, this Black&Decker holds 20.6 ounces in its dust bin.

Filters

All handheld vacuum cleaners have a filter system to trap dirt particles. But some are better than others.

HEPA filters are the best type to choose, as they contain 99.97% of microscopic dirt[1]. So mold, bacteria, and allergens are all removed from the air and locked into the filter. This provides certain health benefits and is great for allergy sufferers.

This WAGAN TECH small-size vacuum uses a HEPA filter.

Attachments

Finally, consider what attachments you want. There’s a whole range available, so choose the ones you’ll need to use. Otherwise, you could end up paying for extras that will just sit in the closet.

This Vapamore model has all sorts of bits included for wet and dry vacuuming, but it makes it more expensive.

The Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaners of 2023

Now that you know what to look for in the best handheld vacuum, let’s get onto our list of the top independently selected picks. We’ve put the time into checking out expert advice, technical info, and real user reviews to bring you this ultimate guide to hand vacuums.

1. BLACK+DECKER 20V Lithium Pivot Vacuum

Best All-Purpose Handheld Vacuum

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Want a good all-rounder for various jobs in your home? No problem. This cordless handheld vacuum is packed with settings to suit every surface.

The unique 200° pivoting nozzle makes it easier to reach awkward areas in an ergonomic way. And with the additional extending built-in crevice tool, you can even get into high corners. The final accessory is the brush attachment, which comes in handy for more delicate surfaces.

This specific compact handheld vac is powered by a 20V battery. So while it may be small, it’s still mighty! It offers powerful suction for any mess. And it doesn’t matter where it is thanks to the lightweight cordless design. You can clean without worrying about power outlets and cords.

When it’s time for emptying, the bagless system is simple and hygienic. There’s a sliding door that opens so you can dump the dirt.

Or, you can remove it altogether if you want to wipe the tank down. Plus, it comes with washable filters to extend the lifespan of your handheld vacuum.

When you’re finished, the compact charging base sits neatly on the wall or tabletop. You can charge your handheld vacuum, as well as store all the accessories to keep the place looking tidy

2. Dirt Devil Scorpion Handheld Vacuum

Best Value Handheld Vacuum

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You don’t need to break the bank for the best handheld vacuum. This Dirt Devil packs a punch with powerful suction while still being affordable and incredibly useful.

The long 15” power cord means you can take it just about anywhere. Even the car! And the detachable 2.5ft hose extends the reach further. So you can clean more areas and spend less time changing sockets around.

And the design is compact and lightweight, which makes it easy to maneuver under and around car seats.

You could even take it in the RV for some quick clean-ups. It comes with a sliding brush and upholstery tool, so you can use it for all sorts of tasks.

The quick-flip crevice tool gets behind the back of couch cushions and into all those hard-to-reach areas. There isn’t any hassle with swapping accessories around, just flip the tool down and you’re ready to go.

This handheld vac has a generous 0.45 liter dust cup. It’s plenty for a handheld vacuum that’s meant for smaller messes.

You won’t lose time making trips to the bin, so your cleaning will be done and dusted in no time at all. Time to put your feet up!

3. Black+Decker Max Lithium DustBuster Hand Vacuum

Best Handheld Vacuum for Quick Cleanups

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Spills are inevitable in your home and you must have a way to tackle them. With thousands of happy customers, this Black + Decker is renowned for its quick cleanup abilities.

The Lithium-Ion battery holds its charge for up to 18 months. So no matter how long it’s been sat there, it’s always ready to grab and go for quick cleanups.

And the cordless design means it doesn’t matter where the mess is. In the backyard, car, or pet bed? No problem. It’s simple to carry it to where it’s needed. Especially as it weighs a tiny 2.6 pounds.

The slim nozzle is perfect for tight spaces. So spilling a bag of rice that bursts under the fridge isn’t an issue anymore. The slim nozzle will slide right under. Or you can use the pull-out crevice tool for extra reach. There’s even a flip-up dust brush attachment to make it more versatile.

And when you’ve finished, the translucent bagless dirt bowl means you can see when it’s time to empty it. There’s no longer a risk of overfilling and overworking the motor. So it helps to keep the power strong.

This durable handheld vacuum will handle quick cleanups for years to come.

4. Shark Rocket Corded Hand Vac HV292

Best Plug-in Handheld Vacuum

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Sometimes, only the power of a corded handheld vacuum will do. We think this Shark Rocket handheld vacuum is one of the best plug-in models on the market right now.

First of all, it looks great with a red and grey sleek design. And it’s packed with accessories to make sure it combats all the hard-to-reach places around your home.

It comes with a True Pet motorized brush, crevice tool, dusting brush, and stretch hose. Plus it has a 15 feet cord for a wider cleaning radius.

The pet tool makes light work of removing pet hair, as the motorized brush bar digs right into the surface of fibers for extra deep cleaning. Say goodbye to that sofa littered with dog hair!

And when the canister is full, the one-touch emptying system means you won’t have to touch the mess. Just hold it over your trash can and press the button.

Finally, all the filters are washable and reusable, so there aren’t any extra costs. This little handheld vacuum cleaner is as easy to maintain as it is to use.

This is one of the best hand vacs to add to your cleaning arsenal for sure.

5. Eufy HomeVac H11

Best Mini Handheld Vac

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If you’re short on storage space, a mini handheld vacuum is what you need. This nifty Eufy weighs just 1.2 pounds and is around the same size as a wine bottle, so storage couldn’t be any easier.

It doesn’t take up much space, so you can keep it in a drawer or kitchen cabinet when it’s not in use. Plus, it charges using a micro USB cable for added convenience.

Don’t let the size fool you, though. This lightweight handheld vacuum still has powerful suction to combat dust and dirt around your home. It’s specifically designed for complete mobility in tight spaces. Whether it’s the kitchen drawers, computer keyboard, or down the back of the sofa.

This cordless handheld vacuum is similar to the Shark Wandvac in size, weight, and design. But it has one major perk in that it’s easier to store. There’s no bulky charging dock to take up counter space, so you can keep it out of the way.

The battery life is also better, with up to 13 minutes instead of 9.5 minutes for the Shark vacuum. It might not sound a lot, but you’ll be amazed at the quick cleaning the Eufy offers.

6. Worx Cordless Portable Vacuum Cleaner

Best Handheld Vacuum for Big Jobs

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Big messes happen outside of your home, so you want a handheld vacuum that can take on big jobs. In this case, the Worx cordless hand vacuum is just what you need.

It holds up to 7oz of dry debris to handle big messes. And there are two-speed settings to suit the task at hand. You can use a lower setting that’s perfect for everyday dust, or boost the power for deep cleaning stubborn dirt.

The washable HEPA filter traps whatever you suck up without releasing it back into the air. So if you suffer from dust allergies, it’s a great choice for keeping them at bay.

This hand vac has about half the power of a full-size vacuum but is way more portable and convenient. At just 3 pounds, you really can take it anywhere with you. The flexible hose and crevice nozzle make it versatile enough to cover a range of surfaces.

And best of all, you can power it with a battery from any of the Worx tool range. So you can swap for a spare battery to extend the run time if you’re cleaning up a serious spill.

For professional cleaners, you can use this all day long to keep things neat and tidy.

7. Hoover ONEPWR Cordless Handheld Vacuum

Best Cordless Handheld Vacuum for Pet Hair

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Pet hair is a never-ending battle for pet owners. You seem to find fur everywhere! From mattresses to area rugs, it can take over the place. We think this cordless Hoover is the best handheld vacuum to reclaim a clean home.

It has an on-board crevice tool to tackle pet hair, wherever you find it. The slim nozzle slides down the side of couch cushions and car seats without any hassle. And at only 3 pounds, your arms won’t ache from cleaning.

Plus the removable and rechargeable batteries have fade-free power, so the suction stays strong. You can rest assured that the power won’t reduce as the canister fills up with pet hair.

And it has an XL dust cup to make sure you don’t waste loads of time running to the bin to empty it. The generous capacity holds plenty of dust and pet fur before you need to tip it out.

Finally, the filters are washable, so you can keep them clear of pet hair. It’s best to keep on top of some basic maintenance when using your handheld vacuum for dog hair.

It’s straightforward to do and will help expand the lifespan of your handheld vacuum. So you can keep your home free of dust bunnies for years to come.

8. BISSELL Multi Auto Vacuum

Best Handheld Vacuum for Cars

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You use your car all the time, so why not treat it to spruce up? The Bissell cordless handheld vacuum is the perfect tool for the job.

If you want your car to have a thorough clean, it can take time to get into all the nooks and crannies.

Well, you can enjoy a longer run time with this Bissell handheld vacuum thanks to the removable batteries. When one runs out, you can replace it with another one that’s fully charged.

It also comes with a selection of tools specifically designed for car interiors. There’s a motorized turbo brush for deep cleaning the car seats and mats. It will dig out any pet hair if you’ve had your furry friends in there. You also get a crevice tool and dusting brush attachment for smaller areas.

The two-foot extension hose gives you extra reach for getting under the dash and around the trunk. It also comes fully equipped with LED lights, so you won’t miss any dust in dark corners.

Best of all, the accessories are stored on the handheld vacuum, so they’re easy to grab whenever you need them. Get ready to treat your car this weekend.

9. DEWALT Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum

Best Wet/Dry Handheld Vacuum

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For tough jobs, you need a tough handheld vacuum. This DEWALT wet/dry model is great for bigger messes with more than just dust.

The heavy-duty construction makes it suitable for inside and outdoor use. And the easy access power switch is big enough to manage, even when you’re wearing your work gloves.

But when you’re faced with a big spill, where do you even start with cleaning it up? Well, the dual-cleaning modes mean you can vacuum with the front nozzle or use the toughened extendable rubber hose.

The suction power is strong regardless of which method you choose, so all messes are sucked up. The HEPA filter then traps the dirt, so it’s sealed away. And with a generous 0.5 gallon tank, you won’t need to empty it often.

But when you do, the heavy-duty latch is easy to open, so you can tip the dust into the trash can without any faff.

If you need a longer run time for your hand vacuum, it’s simple to swap with any 20V DEWALT lithium-ion battery pack. They all work with this model, which is super convenient.

And for real peace of mind, this handheld vacuum comes with a 3-year warranty.

Related: The 12 Best Shop Vacs in 2023

Keeping These Flaws In Mind

Handheld vacuums are handy appliances to have around the home, but they’re not designed to replace a full-size canister vacuum. They work best alongside your main vacuum to help with small messes and spills.

Their compact size means they can’t handle large areas.

The small nozzles and dirt bin capacity just aren’t up to the job. Plus, the batteries are smaller than you’d find on a full-size cordless vacuum, so they don’t offer as much power as a big vacuum. And besides, they’ll run out quickly if you try to clean a whole room with a hand vac.

So stick to quick cleanups and dust-busting pet hair with your handheld vacuum, and you won’t be disappointed.