Best Stick Vacuum Cleaners that Convert to Handheld

TL;DR: The Dyson V11 Origin delivers 185 AW of fade‑free suction for up to 60 minutes, but its $469.99 price and modest 0.2‑gal bin may deter budget‑focused shoppers.

The standout spec on the V11 Origin is its 185 AW suction power, paired with an LCD screen that lets you toggle between Auto, Eco and Boost modes. With a runtime of up to 60 minutes on a single charge, it can handle most small‑to‑medium homes without a pause. The motorbar cleaner head de‑tangles pet hair, and the included mini soft dusting brush, crevice tool and hair‑screw tool add versatility for tight spots.

Compared with the other models in this roundup, the V11 sits in the middle of the weight range: it is heavier than the Dyson V15 Detect Plus (around 6.0 lb) but lighter than the Shark Vertex Ultralight (9.05 lb) and Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus (8.6 lb). It out‑lasts the Dyson V8 Plus, which offers up to 40 minutes of runtime, yet matches the V15’s 60‑minute claim. In suction terms, the V15’s 240 AW tops the V11’s 185 AW, while the V8’s 115 AW falls short. The Smoture Cordless Vacuum and Electrolux Ergorapido both tip the scale at 7 lb‑plus, making the V11 feel lighter in hand.

Users consistently praise the V11’s strong suction and the motorbar head’s ability to lift stubborn pet hair, calling it “the go‑to vacuum for quick whole‑home clean‑ups.” Professional reviewers echo this, noting the fade‑free power across all three modes as a class‑leading feature. The downsides that surface in everyday feedback are the 0.2‑gal dust bin, which fills quickly during larger jobs, and a recharge time of roughly 4.5 hours, limiting back‑to‑back cleaning sessions. The 6.6‑lb full‑assembly weight also shows up in complaints about fatigue during extended use.

Under the hood, the V11 packs a 125,000 rpm Hyperdymium motor that drives the 185 AW suction, and its whole‑machine filtration captures 99.99 % of particles down to 0.1 µm, a boon for allergy sufferers. The LCD screen provides real‑time performance data, helping you manage power modes efficiently. Its dimensions—1262 mm tall, 261 mm long and 250 mm wide—make it easy to store upright in most closets.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $469.99

TL;DR: The Shark Vertex Ultralight delivers 60.3 CFM of suction and an 8.11 in cleaning path while staying under 3 lb in hand, making it a powerful yet feather‑light stick that converts to a handheld.

What really sets this vacuum apart is its DuoClean PowerFins system paired with a self‑cleaning brushroll, delivering 60.3 CFM of airflow and 1.9 inH₂O of suction. The 8.11 in cleaning path reaches into tight spaces, and the 0.32 qt dust cup empties without a mess. A 29.53‑ft cord gives you room to maneuver around larger rooms without hunting for an outlet.

At 9.05 lb total, the Vertex is heavier than the Dyson V8 Plus (5.73 lb) and the Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus (8.6 lb), but it still feels lighter than many full‑size stick vacuums. Priced at $299.99, it sits below the Dyson V8 Plus’s $329.99 price tag yet above the Shark HV322’s $199.99, offering a middle‑ground of premium features without the highest price.

Reviewers love the ultra‑light in‑hand weight of 3.44 lb, calling it “feather‑light” for stairs and under‑furniture jobs, and they praise its 1.9 inH₂O suction on carpet and hard floors. Professionals note the brushroll’s ability to pull pet hair without wrapping. The main complaints focus on the unit’s inability to stand upright—users must lean it against furniture—and the perception that the fully assembled weight feels heavier than newer ultralight models. Additionally, the lack of a standard HEPA filter is mentioned by allergy‑concerned buyers.

The vacuum runs on 120 V power and offers a wand length of 1.31–3.35 ft, giving you flexibility to reach high spots. Its 8.11 in cleaning width and 1.9 inH₂O suction pressure provide effective debris pickup on both bare floors and carpets, while the long cord reduces the need to switch outlets during a cleaning session.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high-quality option

Avoid if: You're on a tight budget or only need basic functionality

TL;DR: The Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus delivers 500 W of corded suction, a 0.68‑qt dust cup, and a lightweight 8.6‑lb design that converts to a 3.2‑lb handheld, making it a solid choice for pet‑hair cleanup.

This stick vacuum packs a 500 W motor and a 0.68‑qt XL dust cup, so you'll pick up pet hair and debris without stopping to empty the bin as often. The convertible design lets you switch from stick to handheld mode, and the handheld version weighs just 3.2 lb, while the whole unit is 8.6 lb—well under the 10‑lb threshold many users look for.

At 8.6 lb, the HV322 is heavier than the Smoture Cordless Vacuum (7.0 lb) and the Electrolux Ergorapido (7.5 lb), but lighter than the Shark Vertex Ultralight (9.05 lb). Its 25‑ft cord gives you a longer reach than the battery‑run range of most cordless stick vacuums, and the 8.5‑in cleaning path width covers ground efficiently.

Professional reviewers praise the constant suction power and note that the 80 dB noise level can stand out in quiet rooms. Users consistently highlight the included pet‑multi‑tool and upholstery tool for tackling fur on sofas and stairs. The LED headlights and swivel steering help you see under furniture, and the 4.2 A draw at 120 V keeps the motor humming reliably.

Best for: Pet owners who want powerful, corded suction without battery concerns, living in small‑to‑medium homes.

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $199.99, or if you need cordless freedom and a quieter operation.

TL;DR: The Dyson V15 Detect Plus delivers class‑leading 240 AW suction and up to 60 minutes of run time, but its 6.04‑lb weight and premium $599.99 price make it a serious investment for demanding homes.

What really sets the V15 apart is its 240 AW suction power, the highest among the stick vacuums in this roundup. Coupled with a dust‑detect sensor and a laser‑equipped Fluffy Optic head, it can expose and capture invisible particles on hard floors. The unit also offers up to 60 minutes of runtime (with a brief 5‑minute Boost window), letting you clean an entire medium‑to‑large home without recharging.

Compared with its Dyson siblings, the V15 is lighter than the Shark Vertex Ultralight’s 9.05 lb but heavier than the Dyson V8 Plus at 5.73 lb. Its suction outclasses the V11 Origin’s 185 AW and the V8 Plus’s 115 AW, while matching the V11’s 60‑minute runtime. The V15 also packs more advanced accessories—two premium cleaner heads and four tools—than the V8 Plus, which lists only three attachments.

Professional reviewers applaud the V15’s “strong cleaning performance” and note that the particle‑counting sensor automatically boosts suction where needed. Everyday users echo this sentiment, especially praising the laser line that makes dust visible and the long battery life. Users note the 6.04‑lb weight can feel bulky on stairs or during extended sessions, and the relatively small dust bin fills quickly in larger homes.

Best for: Buyers willing to invest in a proven, high‑quality option

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $599.99

TL;DR: The Eureka Blaze is a lightweight, corded stick vacuum with an 18‑ft power cord, 2 A motor, and a washable HEPA filter, offering solid everyday cleaning for under $30.

The standout spec of the Blaze is its 18 ft cord length, letting you glide across a room without hunting for outlets. Powered by a 2 A motor that draws 500 W, it delivers consistent suction while staying under the 84 dB noise ceiling, which most users find acceptable for daily chores. Its 3‑in‑1 design swaps easily between upright, handheld, and above‑floor modes, and the washable HEPA filter means you won’t need to buy replacements.

When you line it up with the other eleven contenders, the Blaze sits near the lightest end of the pack at 3.97 lb, only a shade heavier than the Amazon Basics 2‑in‑1 Corded Stick (3.92 lb) and a touch lighter than the Eureka NES215A Blaze (4.0 lb). All the battery‑powered rivals—Electrolux Ergorapido, Shark Pet Gray, Smoture Cordless Vacuum, and Kenmore DS1020—are noticeably heavier, ranging from about 6.9 lb to 7.5 lb. The Blaze also offers a 550 ml dust cup, which is comparable to the 0.5 L cup on the Amazon Basics model but smaller than the 0.6 L bin on the Kenmore. Its cord gives it a reach advantage over the cordless set, which rely on limited runtimes instead of continuous power.

Reviewers consistently praise the vacuum’s easy‑carry weight and the flexibility of the convertible design, noting that the 3‑in‑1 system makes quick transitions from floor to upholstery a breeze. The washable HEPA filter earns extra kudos for keeping maintenance costs low. On the flip side, users point out the modest dust‑cup size, meaning you’ll need to empty it often during larger cleaning sessions, and the 4.1‑star rating suggests some buyers have encountered durability hiccups.

Best for: Entry‑level buyers or those on a tight budget

Avoid if: Reliability and user satisfaction are your top concerns

TL;DR: The Eureka NES215A Blaze is a $28.89 corded stick vacuum that weighs just 4 lb, features swivel steering and a capture nozzle, and converts to a handy handheld for small‑space cleaning.

At only 4.0 lb, the Blaze is lightweight for a stick vacuum, and its swivel steering paired with a capture nozzle makes navigating tight corners feel effortless. The unit runs on a 240 W motor drawing 2 A, delivering steady suction without the need to charge a battery.

Compared with the other 11 models, the Blaze sits near the lightest end of the spectrum—lighter than the cordless Electrolux Ergorapido (7.5 lb) and Shark Pet Gray (6.89 lb), though a touch heavier than the Amazon Basics 2‑in‑1 (3.92 lb) and the original Eureka Blaze (3.97 lb). Its 45.87 in length also exceeds the 44.1 in height of the Amazon Basics, giving it a longer cleaning reach while still fitting comfortably in a closet.

Reviewers consistently praise the vacuum’s feather‑light feel and the maneuverability granted by the swivel head, noting it slides easily over stairs and into cramped apartments. The main complaints revolve around the corded design, which ties you to an outlet, and a modest dust cup of roughly 0.55–0.6 L that needs frequent emptying. Users also mention the noise level of about 84 dB, which can be louder than expected for a budget model.

Best for: Shoppers on a tight budget who want the most for their money

Avoid if: You have a large home, high‑pile carpets, or need cordless freedom for extended runs

TL;DR: The Electrolux Ergorapido delivers 48 minutes of cordless suction, 180° EasySteer handling and LED‑lit cleaning in a 7.5 lb stick that converts to a handy handheld unit.

What really sets this vacuum apart is its 48‑minute lithium‑ion battery life paired with the 180° EasySteer™ swivel head, letting you glide around furniture without twisting the hose. The BrushRoll Clean technology and automatic hair‑release pedal tackle pet hair and fibers without manual unclogging, while the 2‑Step bagless filtration keeps dust sealed.

Compared with the other eleven models, the Ergorapido offers a longer run time than the Shark Pet Gray’s 40‑minute runtime, though it falls short of the Smoture’s combined 110‑minute claim. At 7.5 lb it is a bit heavier than Shark Pet Gray’s 6.89 lb body, but still lighter than the Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus at 8.6 lb. Its 79 dB sound level is marginally quieter than the Shark HV322’s 80 dB, making it one of the quieter options in the lineup.

User feedback consistently praises the lightweight feel for a stick of this size, the convenience of the detachable hand unit, and the bright nozzle LED that reveals dust under couches. Reviewers note that the vacuum best suits small‑to‑medium spaces; the 48‑minute battery may require a recharge during extensive whole‑house sessions, and the 7.5 lb weight can become noticeable during prolonged handheld use. The unit ships in a satin‑white finish, includes a charging stand, a 2‑in‑1 crevice tool with dusting brush, and an E10 filter, all backed by a 2‑year manufacturer warranty.

Best for: Most users seeking a balanced, mainstream option

Avoid if: You have limited desk space or need portability

TL;DR: The Amazon Basics 2‑in‑1 Corded Stick Vacuum delivers 300 W suction in a 3.92‑lb lightweight frame, but its 0.5 L dust cup and modest power make it best for small‑space, budget‑conscious cleaning.

This model packs a 300 W motor into a compact stick that measures 9.6 in × 5.2 in × 44.1 in and weighs just 3.92 lb, so you’ll feel little arm fatigue even during longer sessions. The dust cup holds 0.5 L of debris, and the washable HEPA filter captures 99.97 % of particles down to 0.3 µm, a plus for allergy‑prone households.

At 3.92 lb, the Amazon Basics unit is lighter than the Eureka Blaze (3.97 lb) and noticeably lighter than the Kenmore DS1020 (6.86 lb) or Electrolux Ergorapido (7.5 lb). Its height of 44.1 in lines up with the Blaze’s 44 in profile, while the Eureka NES215A is much shorter at 5.63 in. In other words, this vacuum sits toward the lighter, more maneuverable end of the 12‑product lineup.

Reviewers consistently praise the ergonomic feel and the intuitive 2‑in‑1 conversion that lets you snap the head off and clean stairs or car interiors without extra tools. Professionals note the washable filter’s allergen‑blocking performance, and everyday users love the built‑in cord‑wrap that keeps the 19.7‑ft power cord tidy. The main complaints focus on the modest 0.5 L cup filling up quickly during larger jobs and the 300 W motor struggling with high‑pile carpets, often requiring multiple passes.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget

Avoid if: You need powerful performance or professional‑grade features

TL;DR: The Shark Pet Gray offers 40 minutes of cordless runtime, Hypervelocity suction and a convertible handheld mode for $149.00, making it a solid mid‑range pick for pet‑hair cleanup.

At the heart of the Shark IX141 is its 40‑minute battery runtime, which lets you clean a typical apartment without hunting for an outlet. Weighing just 6.89 lb, the vacuum feels light enough to carry up stairs, yet its 46.09‑inch height gives it enough reach for high‑edge cleaning. The built‑in LED headlights and bristle brushroll add visibility and versatility across carpet and hard floors.

Compared with the other eleven contenders, Shark lands on the lighter side of the pack—only a shade heavier than the Kenmore DS1020’s 6.86 lb but noticeably lighter than the Electrolux Ergorapido’s 7.5 lb. Its 40‑minute runtime matches the Smoture Cordless Vacuum, though it falls short of Electrolux’s 48‑minute claim. In terms of size, Shark’s 7.09‑inch width is slimmer than Electrolux’s 10.4 inch profile, giving it a tighter fit under furniture. While the Eureka Blaze models are far lighter, they also come with a much lower price point and fewer premium features.

Users consistently praise the Hypervelocity suction for pulling pet hair from both carpet piles and hard‑floor seams, and many note the convenience of the removable handheld unit for quick spot cleaning. A recurring complaint is that the runtime can dip below the advertised 40 minutes during heavy-duty sessions, prompting more frequent recharges. Some owners also mention occasional clogging of the suction path, which can interrupt cleaning flow. Professional reviewers highlight the LED headlights as a useful touch for spotting hidden debris.

Beyond runtime and weight, the Shark Pet Gray includes a bristle brushroll and LED lights as standard, and its handheld transformation comes with accessories—though the specs don’t detail the exact attachment list. The five‑year limited warranty adds peace of mind for long‑term owners.

Best for: Value-conscious buyers seeking quality at $149.00

Avoid if: You need extended continuous runtime, wet‑dry capability, or a larger dust‑cup for big‑area cleaning.

TL;DR: The Kenmore DS1020 is a $94.99 cordless stick vacuum that weighs 6.86 lb, runs up to 30 minutes, and converts to a sub‑3‑lb handheld for quick clean‑ups.

The DS1020’s most eye‑catching spec is its weight: at 6.86 lb the unit feels featherlight on the floor, and the detachable handheld portion lists under 3 lb, making it easy to lift for spot cleaning. It runs for 30 minutes on a 16 V lithium‑ion battery and recharges in less than 5 hours, while an integrated LED headlight shines on hidden dust.

Compared with the other eleven models, the Kenmore sits in the middle of the weight range – lighter than the Electrolux Ergorapido (7.5 lb) and Shark Pet Gray (6.89 lb), but heavier than the ultra‑light Eureka Blaze (3.97 lb). Its 30‑minute runtime is shorter than the 48‑minute battery life of the Electrolux and the 40‑minute runtimes of both Shark and Smoture, though it matches the basic runtime you’d expect from a budget‑tier stick vacuum.

Customer sentiment highlights the convenience of the lightweight build and cordless freedom, but notes the lack of a published suction‑power figure. The model holds a 4.1‑star rating from 5,574 reviews, suggesting solid but not stellar satisfaction. Reviewers appreciate the handheld conversion for quick messes, while the modest rating hints that some users find performance or value less compelling than pricier rivals.

Additional technical details include a compact footprint—1103 mm tall, 255 mm long, and 197 mm wide—plus a 0.6 L dustbin that empties without mess. Two speed settings let you choose between gentle carpet cleaning and a more aggressive floor sweep, and the 16 V battery delivers consistent power throughout the 30‑minute cycle.

Best for: Entry-level buyers or those on a tight budget

Avoid if: You want the best value‑per‑dollar in its price range

TL;DR: The Dyson V8 Plus offers 115 AW suction, up to 40 minutes of cordless run‑time and a lightweight 5.73 lb design, making it a solid choice for quick clean‑ups in small‑to‑medium homes.

The standout specification is its 115 AW suction power paired with a Motorbar cleaner head that detangles hair, delivering strong pick‑up on carpets, hard floors and pet hair. It runs for up to 40 minutes on a single charge and includes three attachments plus a wall dock for convenient storage.

At 5.73 lb, the V8 Plus is noticeably lighter than the Shark Vertex Ultralight (9.05 lb) and the Shark HV322 Rocket Pet Plus (8.6 lb), and even a bit lighter than the Dyson V11 Origin (6.6 lb). Its height of 1257 mm is comparable to the Shark Vertex’s 1150 mm, keeping it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. However, its 40‑minute runtime is shorter than the V11’s advertised 60‑minute run‑time, and its 115 AW suction trails the V11’s 185 AW, reflecting its position as an older model in Dyson’s lineup.

Users consistently praise the V8’s visible suction power and the Motorbar head’s ability to handle pet hair without losing performance. Professional reviewers note the whole‑machine HEPA filtration as a strong point for allergy sufferers. On the downside, the battery can’t be replaced by the user and can be fiddly to open, and runtime drops when you use motorized tools, which some owners find limiting for larger cleaning sessions.

Best for: Small‑to‑medium homes, pet owners, and allergy sufferers who value strong suction and lightweight handling.

Avoid if: You have a large home needing longer continuous cleaning, require easy battery swaps, or are on a tight budget.

TL;DR: The Smoture VC70 offers a 110‑minute combined runtime, 45 KPa suction, and smart auto‑adjustment at $149.98, making it a solid mid‑range stick vacuum for pet owners and multi‑floor homes.

The standout spec is the dual‑battery system that delivers up to 110 minutes of total runtime, with a 40‑minute boost mode for tougher jobs. Combined with a 550 W motor and 45 KPa suction pressure, the vacuum pulls debris from carpet and hard floors without sacrificing power. Auto suction adjustment and an LED touch screen let you see battery, bin and filter status at a glance.

Compared with the other eleven contenders, the Smoture sits in the middle of the weight range at 7.0 pounds. It’s lighter than the Shark HV322 (8.6 lb) and the Electrolux Ergorapido (7.5 lb), but a touch heavier than the Shark Pet Gray (6.89 lb) and the Kenmore DS1020 (6.86 lb). Runtime is where it really shines: its 110‑minute combined time beats the Electrolux’s 48‑minute battery life, the Shark Pet Gray’s 40‑minute run, and the Kenmore’s 30‑minute claim. No other peer lists a combined runtime this high, so you’ll clean larger areas before needing a recharge.

Users repeatedly praise the lightweight feel and maneuverability, noting that the rotatable brush and anti‑winding roller handle pet hair without snarls. The four floor‑level LEDs illuminate dark corners, and the included crevice and dusting tools make tight‑space cleaning easy. Professional reviewers point out that the 45 KPa suction is “strong for a cordless vacuum,” while everyday owners love the generous dust‑bin capacity that reduces emptying frequency. The main hassle is the filter maintenance routine: you must wash and fully dry the filters every two weeks, or suction can drop noticeably.

Best for: Households with pets, multi‑floor homes, or anyone who wants strong suction and a long combined runtime in a well‑reviewed mainstream stick vacuum.

Avoid if: You need the longest single‑charge runtime, dislike regular filter maintenance, or prioritize ultra‑lightweight portability.