If you deal with frequent small messes or dread lugging out your full-size, plug-in vacuum cleaner, a cordless stick vacuum could be your perfect cleaning partner. However, like any good relationship, a cordless stick vacuum comes with some compromises. We’ve tested numerous models, and while none are perfect, there are some excellent options available.

Depending on your priorities, you might prefer a lightweight and nimble vacuum for quick cleanups, a model with a self-emptying dock for convenience, or a durable option for heavy-duty use. If you’re on a budget, there are also affordable choices that don’t skimp on performance.

Ultimately, the best vacuum for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. A cordless stick vacuum can make cleaning much easier and more efficient, bringing a touch of simplicity to your daily routine.

How We Picked the Best Cordless Stick Vacuums

Hands-on Testing: Over the past decade, we’ve tested hundreds of vacuums, with our latest evaluation covering 34 cordless stick models priced from $100 to $1,000.

Cleaning Ability: We measured how much baking soda, cereal, birdseed, glitter, and hair each vacuum could remove from four types of rugs and bare floors.

Warranty and Repairs: We prioritized cordless stick vacuums with at least a two-year warranty and a replaceable battery, which is a major plus.

Convenience: For each vacuum, we assessed how easy and comfortable it was to maneuver and whether the attachments served their purpose effectively.

Our thorough evaluation ensures that we recommend only the best cordless stick vacuums that balance performance, durability, and ease of use.

The Dyson V15 Detect Slim comes closer to being an ideal stick vacuum than any model we’ve tested. It’s light and nimble around furniture and on stairs, and it even works on shelves, walls, and ceilings.

In terms of suction, airflow, and cleaning power, the V15 Detect Slim excels, surpassing the performance of many other vacuums. The V15 comes with multiple brushes and attachments, including a motorized brush for pet hair. It runs for 60 minutes on a single charge—longer than most of the other vacuums we’ve tested.

This stick vacuum has high-tech features that make it almost fun to use. These features include a sensor that automatically adjusts suction, a laser headlight that illuminates dust in dim corners, and an LCD screen with a battery countdown and other useful information. This stick vacuum is also one of the quietest models we’ve tested.

The V15’s biggest downside is its tiny, 12-ounce dustbin, which requires frequent emptying, particularly if you have pets. You also have to swap between two different brushes, depending on whether you use the vacuum on carpet or bare floors.

It takes the V15 four hours to recharge—longer than most other models—and it doesn’t stand up on its own. Dyson covers the V15 with a two-year warranty.