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Best stick vacuums in Australia

We’ve rounded up the 12 best stick vacuums to help keep your home neat.

The best stick vacuum cleaners in Australia

Designed to be compact and portable, stick vacuums are fantastic for quick clean-ups. And if you're looking for the best option for your daily cleaning needs, you're spoiled for choice. From all-rounders to vacuums for pet hair removal, the market is filled with options for every price range and need.

Always consider your household's needs when choosing a stick vacuum, as they aren't created equal. Some are better at picking up pet hair, while others are great at mopping. It all comes down to your budget and preference. You should also consider the vacuum's size, battery life, nozzle size and noise levels. Handy attachments such as a crevice tool and wand are vital considerations as well.

To make your buying decision a bit easier, our team has evaluated hundreds of stick vacuums available from different retailers such as Amazon, Appliances Online, Harvey Norman and The Good Guys. We picked models based on customer reviews and ratings. We also considered each stick vacuum's key product features when choosing models for each category.

Read more detail on our methodology below.


Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum

Best overall

Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Up to 70 minutes of battery life

Cons

  • A bit noisy, according to some
  • Expensive

We picked the Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum as the best overall stick vacuum, earning a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Bing Lee and 4.9 on Myer.

This highly sophisticated device boasts a whopping 262W of suction power and offers a blade of light to reveal twice as much invisible dust. Users will appreciate the machine's ability to trap an impressive 99.99% of particles, even those as tiny as 0.1 microns, ensuring a cleaner and more hygienic environment.

A standout feature is the Piezo sensor, which counts and sizes particles 15,000 times a second. Its ability to automatically increase power where needed is a testament to Dyson's innovative technology and the LCD screen displaying the data is a helpful indication of when your floor is clean.

Perfect for whole-home deep cleaning, this versatile cordless technology is suitable for all floor types, hard-to-reach places, mattresses, sofas and stairs. It is more expensive than competitors and some found it a wee bit noisy, but for customers, it's well worth the money.

How do Australians rate Dyson's vacuum cleaners?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Dyson
4.2
Value for money
4.6
Overall
4.6
Performance
4.6
Ease of use
4.5
Cleaning and maintenance
4.4
Product features
How Dyson compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, Dyson was ranked 4th for value for money, 1st for performance, 2nd for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 2nd for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Today's Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum deals

Deal

6% off Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum

Was: $1,546.44Now: $1,453.65
Deal

11% off Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum

Was: $1,548.30Now: $1,377.99

Dyson V15 Detect Absolute Cordless Stick Vacuum

Best Dyson stick vacuum

Dyson V15 Detect Absolute Cordless Stick Vacuum
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Suitable for various floor types
  • Has a laser light for hard-to-reach spaces

Cons

  • No option to lock the switch in the ON position
  • Battery life could be better

We recommend the V15 Detect Absolute Cordless Stick Vacuum as the best Dyson model, which has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon and 4.8 on Harvey Norman.

The Dyson V15 Detect Absolute Stick Vacuum features a built-in Piezo sensor, measuring the dust particles on floors and adjusting the suction power for thorough cleaning. Meanwhile, the Hyperdymium motor generates up to 125,000rpm to ensure efficient collection of dust and dirt.

The Dyson V15 Detect Absolute Stick Vacuum is also about flexibility. It comes with a set of cleaning tools, including a Laser Slim Fluffy and a Motorbar cleaner head, as well as additional tools to cater to different cleaning needs. This range of options makes it a versatile choice for any household.

Last but not least, the operation of this vacuum is as straightforward as it gets. With up to 60 minutes of fade-free power on Eco mode, it keeps your home clean without frequent recharges. The real-time system performance display on the LCD screen and single-button power control also show the thoughtful design behind this cleaning powerhouse.


Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Slim Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2907F

Best stick vacuum for pet hair

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Slim Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2907F
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Claims to eliminate odours while you clean
  • Great value for money

Cons

  • Only up to 30 minutes of runtime
  • A little bulky compared to other stick vacuums

For cleaning up pet hair, our team has chosen Bissell’s Pet Hair Eraser Slim Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2907F has the best stick vacuum. On Appliances Online, it has a rating of 4 out of 5 stars.

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Slim Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2907F has a tangle-free brush roll that ensures no hair wrap, a major win for pet owners who know how frustrating untangling hair from the brush can be. The Easy Empty dirt tank with CleanSlide Technology is another standout feature, facilitating smooth, fuss-free emptying of the tank.

While it only offers up to 15 minutes of runtime on high power and up to 30 minutes on low, it still gives you plenty of time to clean without worrying about running out of cord length. Customers also loved that it's pretty versatile, providing full-size, extended cleaning reach and a hand vacuum, capable of addressing various cleaning needs.

The unit also comes with specialised pet tools, including a crevice tool and dusting brush, which are excellent for reaching those hard-to-clean spots. Meanwhile, the washable scented filter helps eliminate odours and freshens as you vacuum. This feature ensures a clean and fresh-smelling home after every use.

How do Australians rate Bissell's vacuum cleaners?

90% of surveyed Australians recommend Bissell
3.9
Value for money
4
Overall
4.1
Performance
4.2
Ease of use
3.9
Cleaning and maintenance
4.1
Product features
How Bissell compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, Bissell was ranked 13th for value for money, 10th for performance, 11th for ease of use, 10th for cleaning and maintenance and 6th for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

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Shark Cordless Detect Pro IW3611

Best smart stick vacuum

Shark Cordless Detect Pro IW3611
Image: Supplied/Finder

Finder Score:

★★★★★

Pros

  • The 4 automated smart modes work a treat
  • Docking station doubles as an auto empty system

Cons

  • No manual power trigger
  • Pricier than most stick vacuums

The Shark Cordless Detect Pro IW3611 is smarter than the average stick vacuum cleaner. It comes with a sophisticated array of sensors that adjust the suction power to suit the job at hand.

Similar to an advanced robot vacuum, it can automatically detect the floor type in real time to optimise performance on hardwood floors, carpets and rugs. When it encounters excess dirt, a deeper cleaning mode is triggered to ensure everything gets sucked up.

In addition, the Edge Detect mode doubles suction power when it encounters skirting boards and other house edges.

The vacuum head is equipped with powerful lights that help illuminate dust particles you otherwise wouldn't be able to see. While this might sound like a gimmick, it's highly useful for cleaning dark spaces like under the couch.

We also liked the docking station which doubles as an external bin cavity while charging the vacuum. Watching reams of dirt get sucked out of the transparent case is absurdly satisfying.

On the downside, the Shark Cordless Detect Pro lacks a manual trigger button like most Dyson models have – instead, you have to switch it on and off via a power button. With an RRP of $999.99, it's also expensive. With that said, we regularly see it selling for under the RRP so keep an eye out for online sales.


LG Cordless Stick Vacuum A9N-MULTI

Best cordless stick vacuum

LG Cordless Stick Vacuum A9N-MULTI
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Perfect for hard-to-reach areas
  • Comes with 2 interchangeable battery pack

Cons

  • Some customers said the battery drains easily
  • A few reported issues with the brand’s customer service

With a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Harvey Norman and 4.8 on Appliances Online, we recommend LG’s Cordless Stick Vacuum A9N-MULTI as the best cordless option to get.

The LG Cordless Stick Vacuum A9N-MULTI has gained serious props as a top contender in the cordless vacuum market. Its powerful Smart Inverter Motor and cyclonic filtration system delivers an impressive 160W of suction power, making it one of the best in its category. Equipped with a slim hard floor and a multi-surface motorised nozzle, it effortlessly tackles dust and debris on various surfaces, from carpets and tiles to hard floors.

The A9N-MULTI doesn’t just stop at being powerful and versatile. Its design is uncomplicated yet effective, with thumb-touch control allowing easy operation and power level selection. The telescopic pipe can be adjusted to 4 different lengths, facilitating convenient clean-ups in hard-to-reach areas.

Most noteworthy is the vacuum's reliable, long-lasting Dual PowerPack. It comes with 2 interchangeable lithium-ion batteries, providing a combined cordless runtime of up to 100 minutes in Normal Mode. This means longer cleaning durations without recharging, a feature that truly sets this vacuum apart from its competitors.

The package includes several handy attachments like a crevice tool, a combination tool and a hard dirt and mattress tool, making it an extremely versatile cleaning tool.

How do Australians rate LG's vacuum cleaners?

94% of surveyed Australians recommend LG
4.1
Value for money
4.5
Overall
4.5
Performance
4.7
Ease of use
4.4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.5
Product features
How LG compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, LG was ranked 8th for value for money, 2nd for performance, 1st for ease of use, 2nd for cleaning and maintenance and 1st for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

Today's LG Cordless Stick Vacuum A9N-MULTI deals

Deal

16% off LG Cordless Stick Vacuum A9N-MULTI

Was: $960.71Now: $807.00

It looks like we don't have any coupons at the moment. Take a look at our most recent deals


Akitas V8 Stick Vacuum

Best cheap stick vacuum

Akitas V8 Stick Vacuum
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Suitable for light cleaning
  • Up to 40 minutes of runtime

Cons

  • A bit challenging to manoeuvre, according to some
  • Attachments feel flimsy

If you're looking for a budget-friendly stick vacuum, check out the Akitas V8 Stick Vacuum. This model has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

The Akitas V8 Stick Vacuum features 150W Power Span and a powerful 22.2V LI-ION battery, offering up to a remarkable 40-minute runtime. At a mere 2.4kg, it's light enough to easily manoeuvre around, even in those tricky, hard-to-reach spaces.

Many customers were impressed by this vacuum's power, sleek design and decent runtime. It also has an energy-efficient eco mode and max mode so users can adjust according to their cleaning requirements. The motorised turbo brush head with an LED light is also a thoughtful touch, illuminating dark corners and ensuring no dust is left behind. And while the attachments feel a bit flimsy according to a few reviews, this vacuum remains a favourite among buyers for light, everyday cleaning.


Samsung Jet Elite Extra Bespoke Stick Vacuum

Best stick vacuum for carpet

Samsung Jet Elite Extra Bespoke Stick Vacuum
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Comes with a handy mopping brush
  • Sleek design

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with a flexible hose for cleaning hard-to-reach areas
  • A bit noisier than competitors

We recommend Samsung's Jet Elite Extra Bespoke Stick Vacuum as the best option for cleaning carpets. On Appliances Online, it has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars.

The Samsung Jet Elite Extra Bespoke Stick Vacuum's sleek design is complemented by an integrated clean station for efficiency. It also has an advanced 5-stage technology that effortlessly traps up to 99.99% of fine dust and allergens, ensuring a cleaner and healthier home environment.

With a powerful 210W suction, no dust particle is left behind. It's a lightweight champion at just 2.7kg, making it a breeze to manoeuvre, whether in a small apartment or larger spaces. It also offers an impressive runtime of up to 120 minutes.

The integrated Spray Spinning Sweeper shows no mercy to dirt, even on tiles and hard floors. The Samsung Jet Elite Extra Bespoke Stick Vacuum also boasts a washable dustbin, a nifty LED screen and a height-adjustable wand, adding a layer of convenience that is hard to beat.

How do Australians rate Samsung's vacuum cleaners?

90% of surveyed Australians recommend Samsung
4.1
Value for money
4.4
Overall
4.3
Performance
4.4
Ease of use
4.3
Cleaning and maintenance
4.2
Product features
How Samsung compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, Samsung was ranked 8th for value for money, 5th for performance, 6th for ease of use, 3rd for cleaning and maintenance and 5th for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

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Bosch Serie 6 Rechargeable Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Best stick vacuum for hardwood floors

Bosch Serie 6 Rechargeable Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Suitable for various surfaces – even cars
  • Brushless motor

Cons

  • Some wish it had an LED light
  • Replacement battery packs are a bit pricey

The Bosch Serie 6 Rechargeable Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is our pick for the best model to use on hardwood floors. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Bing Lee.

The Bosch Serie 6 Rechargeable Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and manoeuvre across different surfaces.

The cleaner's AllFloor HighPower Brush effectively works on all types of flooring, including carpets, tiles and hardwood floors. The brush can easily be removed for cleaning, making maintenance a breeze. Specially engineered grooves also make it easy to remove tangled hairs with scissors, which can then be suctioned up without the need for manual removal.

There are also exchangeable battery packs, so you can extend cleaning time if necessary. Manufactured in Germany, the cleaner reflects high-quality standards and undergoes rigorous testing to ensure satisfaction.

How do Australians rate Bosch's vacuum cleaners?

88% of surveyed Australians recommend Bosch
4.1
Value for money
4.2
Overall
4.4
Performance
4.3
Ease of use
4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.1
Product features
How Bosch compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, Bosch was ranked 8th for value for money, 3rd for performance, 8th for ease of use, 6th for cleaning and maintenance and 6th for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.


Bosch Serie 6 Rechargeable Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Best stick vacuum for tiles

Bosch Serie 6 Rechargeable Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Suitable for various surfaces – even cars
  • Brushless motor

Cons

  • Some wish it had an LED light
  • Replacement battery packs are a bit pricey

Our team has selected Bosch's Serie 6 Rechargeable Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner for the top stick vacuum to use on tiles.

Its brushless motor technology, coupled with the Bosch AllFloor Power Brush, offers robust and reliable performance across the board. With a flexible cleaning range, it's not just the floors that get the TLC they deserve. The vacuum's multiple accessories ensure every corner of the home, from floor to ceiling, is dust-free – not forgetting the car too!

This vacuum also has a 2-in-1 brush feature, making the cleaning of surfaces a breeze and proving that the Bosch Serie 6 is genuinely unlimited in its capabilities. A few customers said it's a bit noisy, but this seems to be a minor inconvenience at most.

How do Australians rate Bosch's vacuum cleaners?

88% of surveyed Australians recommend Bosch
4.1
Value for money
4.2
Overall
4.4
Performance
4.3
Ease of use
4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.1
Product features
How Bosch compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, Bosch was ranked 8th for value for money, 3rd for performance, 8th for ease of use, 6th for cleaning and maintenance and 6th for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.


LG Cordzero® Handstick + Power Mop Vac with Kompressor™ Technology A9k-Pro

Best stick vacuum for mopping

LG Cordzero® Handstick + Power Mop Vac with Kompressor™ Technology A9k-Pro
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Comes with a crevice tool for tight spaces
  • Easy to wash filters

Cons

  • Bulky design
  • There are cheaper options in the market

For mopping, we recommend the LG Cordzero® Handstick + Power Mop Vac With Kompressor™ Technology A9k-Pro as the best stick vacuum. This versatile option has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Bing Lee.

With its dual functionality as a vacuum and mop, the LG Cordzero® Handstick + Power Mop Vac with Kompressor™ Technology A9K-Pro offers convenience and efficiency in one powerful package.

This vacuum provides up to 200W of suction, effortlessly lifting dust, dirt and debris from a range of surfaces. The Kompressor technology also allows it to hold more dust and hair for fewer interruptions for emptying during cleaning sessions.

Customers are in love with its versatility. It has a telescopic pipe that provides 4 different lengths, ensuring comfort for users of varying heights. Plus, the pipe can be entirely removed for handheld mode, making it perfect for getting into those hard-to-reach spots. And with 2 interchangeable power packs, it delivers up to 120 minutes of runtime. This means deep cleaning throughout the home without worrying about running out of power halfway through.

How do Australians rate LG's vacuum cleaners?

94% of surveyed Australians recommend LG
4.1
Value for money
4.5
Overall
4.5
Performance
4.7
Ease of use
4.4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.5
Product features
How LG compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, LG was ranked 8th for value for money, 2nd for performance, 1st for ease of use, 2nd for cleaning and maintenance and 1st for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.


Miele Triflex HX1 3-in-1 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

Best stick vacuum for large areas

Miele Triflex HX1 3-in-1 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Suitable for deep cleaning
  • Up to 2 hours of runtime

Cons

  • Bulky
  • Some found the handle cumbersome to navigate

We recommend Miele's Triflex HX1 Runner Stick Vacuum if you're looking for a stick vacuum for large areas. It has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.

This stick vacuum boasts a hygiene filter that snares up to 99.98% of microscopic irritants and promises maintenance-free service. The long-lasting lithium-ion battery, equipped with 7 high-performance cells, ensures a robust runtime of up to 2 hours.

The Triflex also has BrilliantLight technology, illuminating the way to a cleaner home. This feature uncovers even the smallest debris on various floor surfaces and colours. And with an extra-wide Electro brush, cleaning large areas becomes quicker without compromising performance.

Plus, it comes loaded with a bunch of handy accessories, including a dusting brush, upholstery nozzle, crevice nozzle and 2 removable batteries. There is also a nifty charging station thrown into the mix. The Triflex is bulkier than its competitors, so it needs more storage space. But considering its array of features and powerful performance, it's a small price to pay for clean, allergen-free areas.


Samsung Jet VS70 Stick Vac Turbo VS15T7035R5

Best stick vacuum for older people

Samsung Jet VS70 Stick Vac Turbo VS15T7035R5
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Lightweight and easy to manoeuvre

Cons

  • 40 minutes of runtime is only for the handheld options on minimum power
  • Inefficient when cleaning wood flooring, according to some

With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Appliances Online and Harvey Norman, our team has chosen the Samsung Jet VS70 Stick Vac Turbo VS15T7035R5 as the top pick for older people.

This vacuum cleaner combines the best of both worlds – power and convenience – making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate functionality without fuss.

The Jet VS70 Stick Vac Turbo offers an impressive 40-minute runtime and exceptional 150W vacuum suction power. It can tackle dust and dirt in every nook and corner of the home with relative ease. The soft floor brush and power mop + 3 tools and a mini motorised tool are a lifesaver when it comes to dealing with stubborn pet hair or freshening up your bedding.

And thanks to its advanced 5-layer dust-filtration system, this model captures up to 99.999% of micro dust particles and allergens. This feature ensures the air in your home stays clean and healthy, providing peace of mind, especially to those with sensitivities.

How do Australians rate Samsung's vacuum cleaners?

90% of surveyed Australians recommend Samsung
4.1
Value for money
4.4
Overall
4.3
Performance
4.4
Ease of use
4.3
Cleaning and maintenance
4.2
Product features
How Samsung compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, Samsung was ranked 8th for value for money, 5th for performance, 6th for ease of use, 3rd for cleaning and maintenance and 5th for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

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Dyson

Best stick vacuum brand

Dyson
Image: Supplied/Finder

Pros

  • Sturdy and easy to use
  • Sleek design

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Some models are noisier than other stick vacuums

Dyson is known for its cutting-edge technology and innovation, proudly positioning itself as the top brand in vacuum cleaners. Aussies trust and love it for its exceptional performance and reliability, consistently giving it stellar scores across the board. In fact, a whopping 93% of customers surveyed for the Finder Retails Awards 2023 highly recommend Dyson, proving its unmatched quality and customer satisfaction.

Dyson stick vacuums are the perfect solution for those who need portability and convenience. With powerful suction, long-lasting battery life and an easy-to-use design, Dyson stick vacuums make cleaning up large and small messes around the house easier than ever.

Lightweight and cordless, they are ideal for quick cleaning without lugging out a clunky upright vacuum from the closet. Plus, they come with advanced features like no-touch bin emptying and hygienic filtration, ensuring your home stays cleaner for longer.

How do Australians rate Dyson's vacuum cleaners?

93% of surveyed Australians recommend Dyson
4.2
Value for money
4.6
Overall
4.6
Performance
4.6
Ease of use
4.5
Cleaning and maintenance
4.4
Product features
How Dyson compares

In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.

For vacuum cleaners, Dyson was ranked 4th for value for money, 1st for performance, 2nd for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 2nd for product features.

14 brands were rated across these decision criteria.

It looks like we don't have any coupons at the moment. Take a look at our most recent deals


Save on vacuum cleaners with these deals and discounts

DysonDyson

Up to 45% off selected Dyson technology + bonus gift

DreameDreame

$400 off T30 cordless stick vacuum cleaner

GodfreysGodfreys

Up to 50% off vacuum cleaners

DysonDyson

$450 off Dyson V8 Absolute vacuum

Ends


Amazon prices last updated on 6 May, 2024 at 04:04 am
eBay prices last updated on 6 May, 2024 at 07:07 am

How did we pick this list?

36
Brands considered
100+
Products compared
12
Best products chosen

Why you can trust our picks

For this list, we looked into hundreds of stick vacuums available on various retailers like Appliances Online, Amazon, The Good Guys and Myer. We considered the following stick vacuum brands:

  • Airflo
  • Akitas
  • AUCMA
  • Beko
  • Bellini
  • Big W
  • Bissel
  • Black+Decker
  • Bosch
  • Deerma
  • Devanti
  • Dirt Devil
  • Dreame
  • Dyson
  • Electrolux
  • Ezymount
  • Hoover
  • INSE
  • iVac
  • Karcher
  • Kmart
  • Kogan
  • LG
  • Maxkon
  • MIC
  • Miele
  • Nilfisk
  • Roborock
  • Samsung
  • Sauber
  • Shark
  • Sharp
  • Target
  • Text
  • Vax
  • Xiaomi

We narrowed down our choices based on customer ratings and reviews (as of August 2023). We also considered each model's key product features, including cleaning power, mobility, attachments and value for money. We then came up with what we believe are the 12 best stick vacuums available online.

How to compare stick vacuums

Some stick vacuums have now progressed to the point of being as powerful as their plug-in counterparts. Add ease of use and a handstick is a solid investment. However, there are a number of options available on the market and not all of them have been created equal. Here are a few points to consider when comparing stick vacuums:

Battery life

Stick vacuums are battery operated. You'll only have a certain amount of time to clean before the unit needs recharging. The runtime of handsticks varies, so take a look at the size of your home and consider how long a proper vacuum will take. Find a model with a suitable runtime.

Surface type

Though many stick vacuums claim to work on all flooring, some work better than others. A model that doesn't have a powerful battery ultimately has less suction. It will not be as efficient on surfaces like carpet that require a lot more suction to properly clean out dirt and debris.

Price

While some stick vacuums on the market are worth the $1,000+ price tag, you don't have to spend a fortune to get your hands on a good model. Take the time to research stick vacuums and come up with a list of features you like in your vacuum. From there, you can compare reputable brands to find a unit that suits your budget.

What is a stick vacuum?

A stick vacuum is a lightweight version of an upright vacuum. While most models are not as powerful as upright vacuums and don't come with as many accessories and tools, they can be ideal for small homes with limited storage space.

Stick vacuums are bagless and use canisters to collect dust that can be directly emptied into your bin. This will save you the trouble and cost of buying and replacing vacuum bags but may require more maintenance. Bagless models have filters that require regular cleaning to maintain suction power. Also, dust can leak out into the air when emptying the canister or removing the filter for cleaning. Look for an easy-to-open canister that can be removed and cleaned easily.

Compared to upright vacuums, stick vacuums are:

  • Lightweight
  • Easy to manoeuvre
  • Compact and easy to store
  • Often convertible into handheld vacuums
  • Suitable for those with back problems as there is no need to bend down
  • Generally not designed for heavy-duty cleaning
  • Not tailored for high-pile carpets or large cleaning spaces
  • Smaller with less dust-storage capacity than upright models

If you want to compare the different types of vacuums, check out our guide to the best vacuum cleaners.

Cordless vs corded stick vacuums

Most stick vacuums are cordless. Cordless vacuums run on rechargeable batteries and can be easily moved around without getting caught on furniture or having to switch sockets. However, they have a limited runtime and need to be charged regularly. If you're considering a cordless vacuum, check out our review of the Dyson V10 cordless stick vacuum.

Corded vacuums tether you to a wall socket, but can run for an unlimited amount of cleaning time. These are better suited to bigger spaces. Corded models also hold more dust than cordless versions, so you won't have to empty them as often.

Additional factors

Here are other factors to keep in mind:


Frequently asked questions

Compare stick vacuums

Name Product Price (RRP) Finder score More info
Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum
Dyson Gen5detect™ Absolute Stick Vacuum
Akitas V8 Stick Vacuum
Akitas V8 Stick Vacuum
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Slim Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2907F
Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Slim Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner 2907F
Shark Cordless Detect Pro IW3611
Shark Cordless Detect Pro IW3611
$999.99
Dyson V11 Outsize
$1,299
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Customer satisfaction rating breakdown

The Finder Customer Satisfaction Awards is an annual national survey conducted in partnership with research firm Dynata. With over 30,000 real shoppers participating, the awards serve as a reliable reflection of Australian consumers' preferences and opinions.

Here are scores for stick vacuum brands from 2024.

Brand Total Score Battery Life Cleaning performance Ease of use Overall rating (2nd metric) Value for Money Recommended
Bissell 7.61 3.42 4.25 3.92 4.25 4 82%
Black & Decker 6.07 2.88 3.35 3.76 3.24 3.76 84%
Bosch 7.92 4.17 4.22 4.39 4.33 4.33 91%
Dyson 8.16 4.25 4.4 4.6 4.53 4 89%
Electrolux 7.92 4.09 4.24 4.62 4.26 4.29 94%
Hoover 7.47 3.76 3.93 4.49 4.12 3.9 53%
Kmart 7.05 3.45 3.67 4.27 3.82 3.94 100%
Kogan 6.2 3.28 3.19 3.78 3.44 3.66 72%
LG 8.35 4.62 4.47 4.53 4.53 4.47 65%
Vax 7.1 3.72 3.72 4.28 3.88 4 97%
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2023, Kantar. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more info. Kantar logo

Best rated stick vacuum cleaner brand Finder Award breakdown

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