Thanks to advancements in design and materials, vacuum cleaners have become increasingly lightweight. A lighter model can ease the physical strain of cleaning and make it more convenient to carry up and down stairs. It’s important that the vacuum has both a low overall weight and a manageable weight in hand. However, many of these lighter vacuums are constructed with a lot of plastic, which can sometimes compromise their build quality.

We have tested over 150 vacuum cleaners, and here are our top recommendations for the best lightweight models. These selections are based on their weight, performance on various surfaces, features, battery life, and cost. For more options, you can also explore our lists of the best cordless vacuums, top cordless stick vacuums, and best cordless vacuums for pet hair.

Dyson V12 Detect Slim

The Dyson V12 Detect Slim is the top lightweight vacuum we've tested. Weighing just over five pounds, it's one of the lightest options in Dyson's range, yet it comes equipped with an impressive array of features. This model can automatically boost its suction power when cleaning carpets or areas with dense debris. It also includes a built-in particle sensor that provides real-time data on the allergens it's capturing. In addition to its standard multi-surface floorhead, the V12 comes with a soft roller floorhead and a laser light to help spot fine dust and pet hair on hard floors. With a battery life of up to an hour, it offers impressive longevity for its category. It excels on bare floors and performs well on both low- and high-pile carpets.

Given its compact design, the V12's dustbin is relatively small and requires frequent emptying. If this is a concern, you might consider the more expensive Dyson V15 Detect, which features a larger dustbin and a more powerful suction motor. However, it is nearly 6.5 pounds, making it noticeably heavier than the V12. Another viable alternative is the Samsung Jet 90 Complete, which offers a larger dustbin and only slightly more weight, but it lacks the automatic suction adjustment found in the Dyson models.

Samsung Jet 75+

If you're looking to spend a bit less and don't mind forgoing the Dyson V12 Detect Slim's built-in particle counter, consider the Samsung Jet 75. Weighing just over 5.5 pounds, it’s slightly heavier than the Dyson but offers a more robust 200 AW suction motor, which enhances debris removal on carpets and makes it easier to tackle debris in crevices. It also features a larger dustbin, reducing the frequency of emptying. With a runtime of up to an hour on a single charge, it's quite capable for most cleaning tasks. Additionally, the '+' model includes two batteries, allowing for quick swaps when one runs out.

However, unlike the Dyson model, the Samsung Jet 75 does not have automatic suction adjustment, so you'll need to manually increase the power setting for carpets. If automatic power adjustment is essential, the Tineco PURE ONE S11 could be a viable option, although it is less sturdy, has a less powerful motor, and offers shorter battery life compared to the Samsung.

Samsung Jet 60 Pet

The Samsung Jet 60 stands out as the top mid-range lightweight vacuum we've tested. While it resembles the Samsung Jet 75 in appearance, it features a less powerful 150 AW suction motor and a smaller battery with a maximum runtime of approximately 40 minutes. Despite these differences, it maintains a similar design with a lighter weight of just over five pounds, making it easy to maneuver between rooms. Its build is robust, with durable plastic construction and a relatively large dustbin that doesn’t require frequent emptying.

The Jet 60 also benefits from a five-stage filtration system, which is effective at capturing allergens, similar to the Jet 75. However, its Jet Fit floorhead, while efficient on both low- and high-pile carpets, falls short compared to the Jet 75’s Turbo Brush floorhead when it comes to cleaning hard surfaces like tile and hardwood.

Wyze Cordless Vacuum

If you're seeking an affordable cordless vacuum, consider the Wyze Cordless Vacuum. Priced lower than the Samsung Jet 60, it offers similar portability with a weight of just over five pounds. Despite its budget-friendly cost, it excels on surfaces such as linoleum and hardwood, and performs well on carpets. Unusually for a vacuum in this price range, it includes a HEPA filter that effectively traps allergens. However, as with any bagless model, you'll need to handle the dustbin with care during emptying.

Its battery life is also commendable, providing nearly an hour of use in its most energy-efficient mode, surpassing the maximum runtime of the more expensive Samsung model. On the downside, its build quality is somewhat lacking, with a plastic chassis that feels inexpensive and is prone to scratches.

BISSELL Featherweight Stick

If you're looking for a budget-friendly lightweight vacuum, the BISSELL Featherweight Stick is worth considering. Weighing in at just around three pounds, this basic model is lighter than many cordless stick vacuums like the Wyze Cordless Vacuum, making it an excellent choice for elderly users. However, unlike the Wyze and other more expensive options, it is not cordless, which means you'll need to frequently change outlets while cleaning larger areas due to its short power cord.

The Featherweight Stick features a small, less powerful suction motor and a basic suction-only floorhead, which means it has difficulty picking up debris from carpets and crevices, especially as its small dustbin fills up. Nonetheless, it performs admirably on hard surfaces, effectively handling pet hair and other lightweight debris.