Until very recently, cordless vacuum cleaners were allowed to play in the second division compared to the cord monsters when it came to thorough cleaning. They were perhaps useful for simpler and smaller tasks, but lacked sufficient battery life and suction power for larger surfaces, carpets with long hair and debris that is difficult to remove, such as animal hair.
When we researched the best traditional vacuum cleaners , we promised to tell you when their cordless counterparts had become good enough to offer a serious alternative. Well, now that day is here (and it went faster than we thought). The technology has been greatly improved and boasts better batteries, better cleaning performance and more features. In addition, more manufacturers have entered the market, which has led to attractive alternatives in all price ranges.
For this article, our team has compared and researched almost 180 models. We have taken into account their specifications, performance in tests on various surfaces, as well as feedback from users and experts regarding key factors such as user-friendliness, maintenance, ergonomics, battery life and durability. To be straightforward, many models are still mediocre. But the best cordless vacuum cleaners have become powerful enough to seriously replace their predecessors with cord.
Whether you are looking for a stable workhorse that can handle carpets with a long pile and a house with many bedrooms, or a budget option for a quick fix, you will find a perfect match in our list. In the buying guide, we also explain when it is a good idea to get rid of the cord (and when it is not), how you can compare different models and how to choose the best accessories for your particular cleaning needs. Once you have finished reading the article, you will be armed with all the knowledge you need to get into the neat world of a cordless household.
1. Dyson V11 Absolute Extra
The Dyson V11 is completely unmatched among cordless vacuum cleaners and it actually also beats a couple of models with cord. It’s not just about sucking up the dust. Every part of this vacuum cleaner has been carefully designed and everything works without problems – from charging it to attaching accessories or emptying the container.
In tests, the Dyson V11 devoured everything from larger crumbs and animal hair to small dust and dirt particles. The results were constantly impressive, regardless of whether the task involved hard floor coverings or carpets with short or long piles. Dyson’s performance on carpets deserves an extra mention because it’s the cordless heel of many cordless vacuum cleaners. In Boost mode, it’s surprising how much dust it can get out of a carpet that looks completely clean.
The disadvantage of the boost mode is that it lasts for a maximum of 12 minutes (in some cases less) before the battery runs out. However, the automatic position is an excellent remedy for this, as the suction force is adjusted depending on the type of surface. In tests, the auto mode gave almost as good results as the Boost, but the battery life was significantly longer. Auto mode is perfect for most tasks, if you do not intend to deep clean a carpet. But be aware that you must use the Torque nozzle as Dyson’s other accessories cannot automatically adjust the suction power. Finally, there is an Eco mode that extends battery life up to 60 minutes and still delivers better than most competitors can do with full power.
With the V11 Absolute Extra, you get a battery that clicks in, while the more expensive Absolut Extra Pro has two batteries, which gives a cleaning time of up to 120 minutes. It’s a lot of time even if you have to vacuum an entire house. Most users report that they can clean over 100 m2 on a single battery and therefore the extra battery may be unnecessary for most households. Both V11 models have a practical display so you do not have to worry, it informs how much time is left before the battery needs to be replaced. The screen also shows which mode has been selected and reminds of maintenance to be performed.
As the next thing on the list, the V11 models boast an easily washable HEPA filter and one of the most hygienic emptying mechanisms we have ever seen on a cordless vacuum cleaner. When the 0.76 liter container becomes full, you just need to hold it above the garbage and press the opening button to open the lower lid. Afterwards you just push the button back and it’s done. This means that you have less contact with the dirt compared to other cordless vacuum cleaners without a bag (but beware, the small cloud of dust that is released can still affect people with asthma or allergies).
Finally, Absolute Extra comes with a generous accessory package. The wall-mounted charging station is compact and stylish. In addition to the Torque brush head, you get a nozzle without a motor for hard floor coverings, a dust brush, a nozzle for cracks, a combi nozzle, a mini motor nozzle and a brush for stubborn dirt. All accessories are a pure joy to attach and remove and two can be stored together with the vacuum cleaner itself. If you remove the pipe, the V11 becomes a handheld vacuum cleaner and the accessory package offers perfect solutions for all kinds of dirt.
In short, the Dyson V11 Absolute is Extra expensive but almost perfect. A small minus is that once the battery is empty, it must be charged for 4.5 hours. For large households with many carpets, the extra click-in battery in the Absolute Extra Pro is a must. A major problem is that the switch must be held in at all times during cleaning. Compared to older Dysons, the button has become more sensitive and comfortable to hold, but it can still be tiring if you clean for a long time (V11 weighs almost 3 kg). The sturdy motor is located near the handle and people with pain in the wrist or joints should perhaps choose a lighter vacuum cleaner or a more upright model. But most users still think the V11 is ergonomic enough for their cleaning needs.
We believe that the Dyson V11 Absolute Extra is currently the best model for most users. It pokes V10 down from the throne with even more suction power and better battery life (although V10 is about 0.5 kg lighter) and the auto mode and LCD screen are the icing on the cake. As we already mentioned, it may be worth paying more for V11 Absolute Extra Pro for a larger home. On the other hand, some may prefer a cheaper Dyson with fewer accessories. The V11 Torque Drive is almost identical to the Absolute Extra; it just contains no nozzle for hard floors. V11 Animal is even cheaper, but has fewer accessories and a simpler display.
To sum it all up, the range of V11 models has expanded the boundaries of what a cordless vacuum cleaner can do. And Absolute Extra with its fantastic accessory package appeals to us a lot when we compare what you get for your money. If you are planning to get rid of your cordless vacuum cleaner for good, then the Dyson V11 is the best replacement available.
2. Miele Triflex HX1
Miele Triflex HX1 is another new debutant in the market for cordless vacuum cleaners that stands out with an innovative design. This model is a 3-in-1 and can be used as an upright, hand-held or shaft vacuum cleaner depending on the task you are facing. The quality of the construction is outstanding and the battery lasts for a full 17 minutes at the highest power.
In tests, Miele bravely took on Dyson. Even at the lowest of three positions, the HX1 is a surprisingly accurate vacuum cleaner. Miele led somewhat in some tests on hard floors and carpets with short piles, but V11 won the challenge in carpets with long piles. Similar to Dyson, the Miele lithium-ion battery lasts up to an hour and can be replaced quickly.
Using Triflex feels very comfortable and the maneuverability is excellent. There is a good switch instead of a push button. That way, you do not have to hold down the button all the time. As the motor is mounted close to the nozzle (in a similar way as with upright vacuum cleaners), this model feels perfect for being able to vacuum larger areas because you do not strain the wrist as much. When standing upright, the HX1 can also stand vertically on its own, which is handy if you need to move furniture or pick up items that are not to be vacuumed up. If you mount the engine close to the handle, you get a classic shaft vacuum cleaner to be able to clean surfaces that are higher up and harder to reach. If you finally remove the shaft completely, the Triflex will be a handheld model for minor cleaning tasks.
According to users, it takes 30-60 seconds to move the engine location, which is not much, but once you find your favorite place, you will not learn to change it as often. This vacuum cleaner is one of the heavier cordless vacuum cleaners on the market (fully assembled, it weighs 3.6 kg) and therefore, as a shaft vacuum cleaner or hand-held vacuum cleaner, it can feel tiring for people with sensitive joints.
The battery lasts from 17 minutes to an hour and Miele estimates that this model is powerful enough to handle areas of 125 m2. Charging takes 4 hours and we like that the battery can be charged both directly and from the wall mount. Triflex has a lifetime filter, while the dust container holds up to 0.5 liters.
If we have to point out something wrong with this vacuum cleaner, it is the twist-to-open emptying mechanism. You must turn the container a quarter of a turn to remove it and another quarter of a turn to open it. A lot of users report that it takes a while to learn this – if you happen to use too much force and turn the container too far, it will open completely and all the collected dust will fall back on the floor.
But if you can forgive such small accidents, Miele’s cordless debutant is really impressive. However, it is not cheap. The basic model of HX1 that we have reviewed here comes with a nozzle for cracks, a dust brush and a nozzle for furniture. For animal lovers, we recommend upgrading to the HX1 Cat & Dog model, which includes a lifetime HEPA filter, brush with LED light and extra accessories to remove animal hair. Finally, the HX1 Pro is the most expensive and generous package. It contains HEPA filter and brush with LED light, as well as an extra battery and extra charging tray (but no pet accessories).
Since the HX1 is fairly new on the market, there is still no one who can answer how well it performs over time. But the vacuum cleaner actually feels more solid and stable than the competition. Miele appliances have a reputation for excellent service life and the manufacturer expects Triflex to last for 10 years. If it turns out to be true, the HX1 can live two to three times longer than its competitors, making it an excellent investment.
3. Electrolux Ergorapido EER77SSM
As the cordless vacuum cleaners (at least the good ones) tend to be considerably more expensive than their corded relatives, the Electrolux Ergorapido is a nice affordable model that is still effective in its task of eliminating dirt. Its brush is surprisingly easy to maneuver and easy to clean, the battery lasts up to 45 minutes and the design makes it easy to turn it into a handheld vacuum cleaner.
Considering how cheap Ergorapido is, we expected a mediocre cleaning result. But it actually did very well in most situations, such as sucking up troublesome dirt such as sand or animal hair from carpets with short or medium hair. In tests, the biggest challenge for this cheap cordless vacuum cleaner turned out to be the notorious carpets with long hair. On hard floor coverings, it also had some problems with large particles, such as breakfast cereals. In other words, unless you live in a house with lavish carpets along with messy cornflakes fans, Ergorapido is a really good choice.
Another bonus is the ease of use. Unlike most models, it looks more like an upright vacuum cleaner than one with a shaft. The weight is placed closer to the floor, which is not as tiring for the arms. In addition, Ergorapido can stand up on its own, if you want to take a break. The brush can rotate up to 180 degrees and there are LED lights that are very practical when cleaning dark corners. Ergorapido has two modes. In the lowest mode, the battery can last up to 45 minutes, at maximum power it lasted for 13 minutes in tests.
Another thing we loved about this vacuum cleaner is that you can remove the central part in just a few seconds and voila, it will be a handheld vacuum cleaner. Of course, most cordless models can transform, but Electrolux has made the process exceptionally practical and simple. But as a handheld vacuum cleaner, there is only one mode. Battery life is similar to what you get with the entire device at maximum power.
Unfortunately, the only option to charge Ergorapido is to place it on a rather bulky floor stand. You can not quickly replace the built-in battery and it takes 4 hours to charge it. The maintenance also gives us mixed feelings. Although we love the BrushRollClean technology (when the roller gets full of hair you only need to press a lever and small integrated blades will release it) it is more cumbersome to empty the container and clean the filter.
The capacity of the container is only 0.5 liters, in addition, you must remove the filter every time you empty it. This causes more contact with the dust compared to the push-button-and-let-it-fall method, which some competing models use. The filter consists of two parts and must be separated before cleaning, which is another process that exposes you to dust. The good news is that once you have succeeded in this, the filter can be easily washed in warm water.
To sum up, the Electrolux Ergorapido EER77SSM may not be as exquisite as more exclusive models, but it does not pretend to be either. Instead, it offers an enticing and compelling package with features for its price. The included accessories for smaller tasks are a nozzle for cracks and a dust brush, but cheap accessories can be purchased separately. If you want to try freedom with a cordless vacuum cleaner but do not feel like investing a fortune, Ergorapido is the best choice.
4. Roborock Mace H6 Adapt
Roborock’s robotic vacuum cleaner has been challenging Roombas for some time, so we expected the manufacturer’s debut in the cordless market to be just as ambitious. And we were not disappointed, as the H6 has as futuristic a look and is as hungry for dust as the more exclusive models, but is significantly cheaper and lighter. With a maximum sound level of 72 dB, it is also one of the quietest models you can get.
When it comes to cleaning performance, the featherweight H6 (only 1.4 kg) exceeded our expectations. It made hard floors and carpets with short to medium piles almost spotlessly clean, even in the position with less suction power. When it comes to the very challenging carpets with long pile, it could get up about 90% of all small particles, if you turned up the strength to the max. Although this model does not perform exactly as well as the Dyson giants, the suction power of the small H6 is impressive.
There’s one area where the Roborock H6 beats the Dyson (and to be honest, all the other cordless models) and that’s the battery life of a single charge. The battery is built-in, but it lasts up to an incredible 90 minutes, which has been confirmed in reality. This is because Roborock has blessed its creation with a lithium polymer battery while everyone else on the market still uses lithium ion batteries. This innovation not only provides longer vacuuming sessions, but Roborock’s battery is expected to retain 80% of its power after 400 charges. In addition, the charging station can be configured as either freestanding or wall mounted, depending on what you prefer. The actual charging takes 4 hours.
Similar to the Dyson V11, Roborock has three different modes, which include an automatic setting that adjusts the suction power depending on the surface. In the maximum position, the H6 lasts for about 10 minutes. The similarities between the two models do not end there, as the H6 also has a screen. Although smaller than the Dysons, the OLED screen is clear and distinct to read. It displays information about the remaining battery life, the selected mode, and maintenance requests.
H6 has two washable HEPA filters that capture even the smallest particles. But the mechanism for emptying the dust container is not perfect. The idea is similar to that of Dyson (a lid at the bottom that opens when you press a button), but users report that some dirt such as animal hair can get stuck inside. If this happens, you will need to fix the H6 container by hand. In addition, you may need to take care of this dirty task quite often, as the capacity is only 0.4 liters.
The range of accessories is not exceptionally large but well thought out to cover most cleaning needs. In addition to the main motorized brush head, there is a dust brush, a mini-turbo brush, a nozzle for cracks and our favorite – a pull-out, flexible hose. You can attach all accessories directly (which turns the H6 into a handheld vacuum cleaner) or use them together with the hose for better range. Even better, the H6 has a lock on the start button that keeps it running all the time. This way you can lower your H6 and use the flex hose to clean all around, instead of having to carry the vacuum cleaner with you all the time.
In general, we found few problems with Roborock’s debutant. The performance of carpets with long pile could be a little better but it was still impressive in terms of price. The dust container could be more spacious and it could be easier to empty it. But all this weighs lightly in comparison with the fantastic battery life, ease of use and relatively quiet operation. One cause for concern is the availability of spare parts. At the moment, the only way to get spare parts is to order them from China and we have no idea how the situation will develop in the coming years when spare parts are needed. With that said, this little cordless vacuum cleaner has a two year warranty (which also covers battery issues) and Roborock’s customer service seems very helpful.
5. Bosch BSS81POW
Last but certainly not least on our list is the Bosch series BSS81POW. It is a surprisingly good all-round model that gets high marks in almost all vacuuming-related aspects (and sometimes it also takes first place). But we fell in love with it mainly because of a unique accessory – a long, flexible and very narrow nozzle for cracks, which means that you can defeat all those dust collections that were previously impossible to reach with any other vacuum cleaner.
In performance tests, the BSS81POW confidently passed all surfaces. It was not the absolute best but stayed remarkably close to alpha models such as the Dyson V11. In normal mode, the battery lasts up to 35 minutes and is powerful enough for most cleaning tasks. There is no screen, but an indicator light informs you of the selected mode and whether the power is running low. Bosch is controlled with two buttons. One turns the device on and off and with the other you select the intensity. No button that has to be pressed all the time is in sight.
Another good news is that thanks to a click system, the battery can be easily replaced. It is the same battery used in other Bosch Home & Garden appliances (the green series). Therefore, you may already have one or two extra batteries somewhere. In addition, with a quick charger, the battery is fully charged in just 70 minutes. It is also possible to use the charging station, but it takes 5.5 hours.
Our biggest disappointment with BSS81POW was the container. The capacity is only 0.4 liters and you must remove the filter every time the container is full. This makes the task much more dusty than necessary. In addition, some dust may accumulate during the mechanism, further complicating maintenance. The filter itself is relatively easy to maintain; it has a self-cleaning system and you do not need to wash it.
The accessory set is average. The flexible nozzle for cracks is excellent, then you get a 2-in-1 type of dust brush and a nozzle for furniture. That’s all, and for that price we had hoped that Bosch would be more generous. But we like that all accessories can be placed nicely next to the charging station and that you have the choice to attach one of them to the vacuum cleaner when you walk around the house.
Finally, the BSS81POW weighs 3.3 kilos when fully assembled. Holding it in one hand can be tiring if you are going to vacuum for a long time. If you want a lighter device, you may prefer the Bosch Series 6 range (our favorite was the BBS611BSC , as it also has the flexible slot for slots). The vacuum cleaners from that series weigh 1 kg less and are cheaper, but the disadvantages are shorter battery life and an even smaller dust container.
To sum it all up, we think the BSS81POW is a robust and reliable vacuum cleaner. It may feel too heavy for longer vacuuming sessions and we would have liked less dust when emptying it. But the vacuum cleaner performs its basic tasks excellently and the ability to thoroughly clean all small corners and cracks also justifies its price.