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10 Best Cheap Vacuums

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner 1.1L with Lift-Away Technology, Pet Model, LED Headlights, Anti-Allergen, 8m Cord, 750W, Pet, Crevice, Multi-Surface Tools, Red/Black, NV602UKT

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,121
Suction Power
Attachments and Accessories
Bagged vs. Bagless
Suction Power
The vacuum delivers impressive suction power that makes carpets look revitalized after just one use.
Attachments and Accessories
Its detachable design allows effortless cleaning of stairs, curtains, and other hard-to-reach spots with one hand.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Being bagless saves money and simplifies maintenance, though the 1.1L dust cup may require frequent emptying during larger jobs.
Weight and Maneuverability
The vacuum is fairly lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, though some find it a bit heavy when carrying the detachable motor unit.
Cord Length and Cordless Options
The 8-meter cord provides reasonable reach but can sometimes get in the way during use.

The Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner NV602UKT offers strong suction with its 750W motor, making it effective for basic cleaning on carpets and hard floors. Its Lift-Away feature lets you easily convert it into a portable vacuum, which is handy for stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach spots. It includes useful attachments like pet, crevice, and upholstery tools, specifically designed to tackle pet hair and tight corners. The HEPA filtration with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal helps capture 99.9% of dust and allergens, improving air quality—a great plus for allergy sufferers.

The vacuum is bagless, so you don’t have to buy bags, and its 1.1L dust cup is a decent size for a budget-friendly model. At 5.1 kg, it’s lighter than many upright vacuums, making it easier to carry and maneuver, although it’s not cordless, so you’ll rely on the 8-meter cord length which provides reasonable reach but might limit mobility compared to cordless options. The LED headlights on the brush help spot hidden dust in dim areas, which is a thoughtful addition. Its 5-year guarantee adds confidence in durability.

If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable vacuum that handles pet hair well and offers solid allergen control without extra bags, this Shark model is a smart choice. However, if cordless convenience or ultra-quiet operation are priorities, you might want to explore other options.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,121
Suction Power
Attachments and Accessories
Bagged vs. Bagless
Suction Power
The vacuum delivers impressive suction power that makes carpets look revitalized after just one use.
Attachments and Accessories
Its detachable design allows effortless cleaning of stairs, curtains, and other hard-to-reach spots with one hand.
Bagged vs. Bagless
Being bagless saves money and simplifies maintenance, though the 1.1L dust cup may require frequent emptying during larger jobs.
Weight and Maneuverability
The vacuum is fairly lightweight and easy to manoeuvre, though some find it a bit heavy when carrying the detachable motor unit.
Cord Length and Cordless Options
The 8-meter cord provides reasonable reach but can sometimes get in the way during use.
#2

Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner 1.1L with Lift-Away Technology, LED Headlights, Anti-Allergen, 8m Cord, 750W, Crevice, Multi-Surface Tools, Blue/Black, NV602UK

Rating
10.0
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless
Weight and Maneuverability
Suction Power
The vacuum delivers strong suction that makes carpets look like new after just one use.
Bagged vs. Bagless
The bagless bin is simple and hygienic to empty, saving money on replacement bags.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being fairly lightweight for an upright, it can feel a bit heavy for some users during extended use.
Attachments and Accessories
Detaching the motor unit allows easy cleaning of stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach spots with one hand.
Cord Length and Cordless Options
The 8-meter cord provides good reach but can sometimes get in the way when moving around.

The Shark Corded Upright Vacuum Cleaner NV602UK is a strong contender in the budget vacuum category, delivering solid suction with its 750W motor. It’s designed to be versatile, featuring Lift-Away technology that lets you detach the main unit to clean stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach areas with ease. The vacuum also includes two floor modes for carpets and hard floors, plus adjustable suction control, helping you tailor cleaning power to different surfaces.

Its filtration system stands out with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal that captures 99.9% of dust and allergens, paired with washable pre- and post-filters, which is a big plus for allergy sufferers looking for cleaner air in their home. The vacuum bags dirt in a 1.1-liter bagless bin, making emptying quick and hygienic without purchasing bags.

Weighing around 5.1 kg, it’s reasonably light for an upright model, making it fairly easy to maneuver around the house, although it may still feel a bit heavy for some users compared to smaller handheld models. The 8-meter cord length offers good reach without frequent unplugging. Included attachments like the crevice and upholstery tools add convenience for detailed cleaning. LED headlights on the brush head improve visibility in dark corners. This model is corded, so it lacks cordless freedom, which might limit mobility if you need to vacuum far from sockets. It is a dependable, feature-packed vacuum for those on a budget who want strong suction, effective allergen control, and versatile cleaning options without paying a premium.

Rating
10.0
Suction Power
Bagged vs. Bagless
Weight and Maneuverability
Suction Power
The vacuum delivers strong suction that makes carpets look like new after just one use.
Bagged vs. Bagless
The bagless bin is simple and hygienic to empty, saving money on replacement bags.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being fairly lightweight for an upright, it can feel a bit heavy for some users during extended use.
Attachments and Accessories
Detaching the motor unit allows easy cleaning of stairs, furniture, and hard-to-reach spots with one hand.
Cord Length and Cordless Options
The 8-meter cord provides good reach but can sometimes get in the way when moving around.
#3

Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Pro Stick Vacuum Cleaner with Anti Hair Wrap Plus, Clean Sense IQ, DuoClean, 60min Run-Time, Removable Battery, 4 Attachments, Anti-Allergen, White/Navy IZ402UKTSB

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Attachments and Accessories
Suction Power
Its suction power is perfectly balanced—not too weak to require multiple passes, nor too strong to damage rugs or mats.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being a bit heavier than some cordless vacuums, its flexible wand and maneuverability make it easy to use around furniture and under beds.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum includes a thoughtful selection of accessories, including a pet-specific FurFins tool and a crevice tool, enhancing versatility.

The Shark Stratos Cordless Pet Pro Stick Vacuum is a solid choice for anyone looking for a versatile, cordless vacuum under a budget. Its standout feature is the Anti Hair Wrap Plus technology, which automatically removes hair from the brush roll while you clean—this is especially handy for pet owners dealing with fur. The DuoClean floorhead works well on both carpets and hard floors, with motorised brush-rolls and LED lights to catch dust hidden in corners. The Clean Sense IQ tech detects dirt you might miss and adjusts suction power accordingly, making cleaning more efficient without you having to lift a finger.

The vacuum uses a HEPA filter and an anti-allergen complete seal, so it’s good at trapping dust and allergens, helping improve air quality in your home. It’s cordless with a removable battery providing up to 60 minutes of run-time in eco mode, which means you can clean larger areas without plugging in. It weighs about 5.1 kg, which is a bit heavier than some other stick vacuums, but still manageable thanks to a flexible wand and good maneuverability. The vacuum comes with useful attachments like a crevice tool, multi-surface brush, anti-allergen brush, and a pet-specific FurFins tool, making it adaptable for different cleaning needs.

One possible downside is the weight, which might tire some users during extended cleaning sessions. Also, while it has a good suction power of 309 watts, it might not match the strongest uprights in deep carpet cleaning. The dustbin capacity of 0.7 litres is decent but may require frequent emptying in larger homes or heavy use. For those seeking a cordless vacuum that handles pet hair well, cleans multiple floor types, and offers a good balance between power and convenience, the Shark Stratos is a worthy option within the affordable vacuum category.

Rating
9.1
Suction Power
Weight and Maneuverability
Attachments and Accessories
Suction Power
Its suction power is perfectly balanced—not too weak to require multiple passes, nor too strong to damage rugs or mats.
Weight and Maneuverability
Despite being a bit heavier than some cordless vacuums, its flexible wand and maneuverability make it easy to use around furniture and under beds.
Attachments and Accessories
The vacuum includes a thoughtful selection of accessories, including a pet-specific FurFins tool and a crevice tool, enhancing versatility.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Vacuums

Choosing the right vacuum cleaner can make a big difference in how effectively you clean your home. When looking for a vacuum, especially a budget-friendly one, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are some important specs to look at and how to navigate them.
Suction PowerSuction power is a measure of how effectively a vacuum can pick up dirt and debris. It's important because stronger suction means better cleaning performance, especially on carpets and rugs. Suction power is often measured in watts or air watts. For general home use, a vacuum with moderate suction power (around 200-300 air watts) should suffice. If you have pets or thick carpets, you might want to look for higher suction power.
Filtration SystemThe filtration system in a vacuum cleaner determines how well it can trap dust and allergens. This is crucial for maintaining air quality, especially if you have allergies or asthma. HEPA filters are the gold standard, capturing 99.97% of particles. If you don't have specific allergies, a standard filter might be sufficient, but for those with sensitivities, a vacuum with a HEPA filter is recommended.
Bagged vs. BaglessVacuum cleaners come in bagged and bagless varieties. Bagged vacuums use disposable bags to collect dirt, which can be more hygienic and better for allergy sufferers as they trap dust more effectively. Bagless vacuums use a canister that you empty, which can be more convenient and cost-effective since you don't need to buy replacement bags. Consider your preference for convenience versus hygiene when choosing between these types.
Weight and ManeuverabilityThe weight and maneuverability of a vacuum cleaner affect how easy it is to use, especially if you have multiple floors or need to carry it around. Lightweight vacuums (under 10 pounds) are easier to handle and store, while heavier models might offer more stability and power. If you have a large home or physical limitations, a lighter vacuum might be more suitable.
Attachments and AccessoriesAttachments and accessories can enhance the versatility of your vacuum cleaner. Common attachments include crevice tools, upholstery brushes, and pet hair tools. These are important for cleaning different surfaces and hard-to-reach areas. If you have pets, look for vacuums with specialized pet hair attachments. For general use, a basic set of attachments should be sufficient.
Noise LevelThe noise level of a vacuum cleaner can be an important consideration, especially if you live in an apartment or have young children. Noise levels are measured in decibels (dB). Quieter vacuums typically operate at around 60-70 dB, while louder ones can exceed 80 dB. If noise is a concern, look for vacuums specifically marketed as quiet or with lower dB ratings.
Cord Length and Cordless OptionsCord length affects how far you can move from the power outlet while vacuuming. Longer cords (20-30 feet) offer more flexibility, while shorter cords might require frequent unplugging and replugging. Cordless vacuums offer maximum mobility but are limited by battery life, usually ranging from 15 to 60 minutes. If you have a large area to clean, a longer cord or a high-capacity cordless vacuum might be more suitable.