Welcome to Vacuum Wars’ definitive guide to the best cordless vacuums under $200! These selections are based on our own in-depth independent and non-sponsored evaluations, focusing on cleaning performance, maneuverability, and essential features.
We also consider customer satisfaction scores to ensure you choose a cordless vacuum that meets your specific needs and offers high value for your investment. Our recommendations are updated regularly to reflect the latest evaluation results and industry insights so you can easily find the ideal and best-rated vacuum cleaner for your home.
Products that have been discontinued, or are frequently out of stock are removed from the rankings.
Note: Our rankings are updated frequently and can change daily based on several factors. These include fluctuations in current pricing, updated review scores, adjustments to our ranking algorithm, and whether a product has been discontinued. This ensures that our list remains as accurate and up-to-date as possible.
#1
Smoture VAC01
The Smoture VAC01 offers a 550W brushless motor delivering strong 45KPA suction for both surface debris and deep dirt, backed by up to 60 minutes of runtime on a single charge. A self-standing design eliminates the need for a separate stand, and the rechargeable wall mount provides convenient storage and charging options—either through the dock or by removing the battery. Its LED touch screen lets you switch easily between eco, standard, boost, and auto modes, with auto mode detecting carpets to automatically adjust suction power.
Current price as of March 23, 2025
Automations: Auto Suction Adjustment
Cleaning Heads & Attachments: Active Hair Removal
Battery & Charging Features: Detachable Battery
Lighting & Display: LED Lights
Design & Build: Lightweight
Air Filtration: HEPA Filtration
| Scores | Smoture VAC01 | Average Cordless Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 3.48 | 2.51 |
| Performance | 3.34 | 3.00 |
| Hard Floor | 0.85 | 2.22 |
| Carpet | 3.71 | 2.20 |
| Features | 2.89 | 1.89 |
| Battery | 3.26 | 2.11 |
| Attachments | 2.04 | 1.66 |
| Official Battery Life: 60 Minutes |
| Handle Weight: 1574gr |
| Noise Level: 73db |
| Dust Bin Capacity: 1500ml |
#2
Levoit LVAC 200
The Levoit LVAC 200 cordless vacuum offers impressive performance for its price. Its floorhead handles various debris on carpets and hard floors without clogs or snowplowing. It features active hair removal combs, a felt squeegee for hard floors, and a sealed filtration system to trap dust and odors. With a lightweight handle, responsive swivel, and upright-standing ability, it’s easy to use and store. It has two power modes, a removable battery, and attachments like a dusting brush, crevice tool, and pet tool. Bright LED lights on the floorhead improve visibility, and replacement batteries are available. See additional info
Price as of March 23, 2025
Automations: Active Hair Removal
Battery & Charging Features: Detachable Battery
Lighting & Display: LED Lights
Design & Build: Lightweight
Air Filtration: HEPA Filtration
| Scores | Levoit LVAC 200 | Average Cordless Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 3.01 | 2.51 |
| Performance | 3.35 | 3.00 |
| Hard Floor | 2.41 | 2.22 |
| Carpet | 2.62 | 2.20 |
| Features | 1.82 | 1.89 |
| Battery | 2.14 | 2.11 |
| Attachments | 2.04 | 1.66 |
| Official Battery Life: 50 Minutes |
| Handle Weight: 1444gr |
| Noise Level: 78db |
| Dust Bin Capacity: 580ml |
#3
Bissell CleanView XR
The Bissell Cleanview XR is a new cordless stick vacuum that features a versatile design, including a 24V removable lithium-ion battery and the ability to convert into a handheld unit. It comes equipped with LED headlights on the main brush roll, a crevice tool, a 2-in-1 dusting brush, and a wall mount, all while maintaining a lightweight build at 5.9 pounds. The model boasts innovative features like a tangle-free brush roll, an easy empty dirt tank, and swivel steering, making it a competitive option in its price range against other well-known cordless vacuums. See additional info
Price as of March 23, 2025
Battery & Charging Features: Detachable Battery
Lighting & Display: LED Lights
Design & Build: Lightweight
| Scores | Bissell CleanView XR | Average Cordless Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 2.62 | 2.51 |
| Performance | 3.42 | 3.00 |
| Hard Floor | 2.44 | 2.22 |
| Carpet | 3.05 | 2.20 |
| Features | 1.39 | 1.89 |
| Battery | 1.61 | 2.11 |
| Attachments | 2.04 | 1.66 |
| Official Battery Life: 35 Minutes |
| Handle Weight: 1568gr |
| Noise Level: 72 db |
| Dust Bin Capacity: 300ml |
#4
Kenmore DS1030
The Kenmore DS1030 is a top pick for anyone seeking a powerful yet lightweight cordless vacuum. This model excels with its dual power settings, allowing you to toggle between low and max power modes, which not only enhances its efficiency on various surfaces but also boosts its deep-cleaning capabilities, particularly on carpets. In our tests, it consistently outperformed its competitors in suction power and battery life within its price range, offering up to 45 minutes of runtime on its low setting. Additionally, its innovative Easy Cut nozzle is a standout feature, adeptly handling hair tangles with ease. The added convenience of LED lights on the floorhead improves visibility in low-light conditions. Overall, the Kenmore DS1030 combines functionality, power, and thoughtful design, making it a superior choice in the budget-friendly segment of cordless stick vacuums. See additional info
Price as of March 23, 2025
Cleaning Heads & Attachments: Active Hair Removal
Lighting & Display: LED Lights
Design & Build: Lightweight
| Scores | Kenmore DS1030 | Average Cordless Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 2.59 | 2.51 |
| Performance | 3.00 | 3.00 |
| Hard Floor | 1.95 | 2.22 |
| Carpet | 1.74 | 2.20 |
| Features | 1.67 | 1.89 |
| Battery | 1.57 | 2.11 |
| Attachments | 2.72 | 1.66 |
| Official Battery Life: 45 Minutes |
| Handle Weight: 1210gr |
| Noise Level: 83db |
| Dust Bin Capacity: 500ml |
#5
Kenmore DS4030
The Kenmore DS4030 is a lightweight and versatile cleaning tool, ideal for both carpets and bare floors. Weighing less than 6 pounds, it features a flexible EasyReach wand for cleaning under furniture and an extra-large dust cup for extended cleaning without frequent emptying. With two speed settings and a runtime of up to 40 minutes, it’s designed for efficient dirt, dust, and pet hair removal. The vacuum also includes HEPA filtration, capturing 99.97% of particles down to 0.3 microns, and easily converts into a handheld vacuum for tight spaces. Its rechargeable 21.6V lithium-ion battery comes with a wall-mounted base and portable adapter for convenient charging.
Price as of March 23, 2025
Cleaning Heads & Attachments: Active Hair Removal, Pivoting Wand
Lighting & Display: LED Lights
Design & Build: Lightweight
Air Filtration: HEPA Filtration
| Scores | Kenmore DS4030 | Average Cordless Vacuum Tested |
|---|---|---|
| Vacuum Wars Overall | 2.55 | 2.51 |
| Performance | 2.81 | 3.00 |
| Hard Floor | 1.79 | 2.22 |
| Carpet | 2.51 | 2.20 |
| Features | 1.55 | 1.89 |
| Battery | 1.40 | 2.11 |
| Attachments | 0.68 | 1.66 |
| Official Battery Life: 40 Minutes |
| Handle Weight: 1420.00gr |
| Noise Level: 74db |
| Dust Bin Capacity: 1000ml |
How to Select a Cordless Vacuum Under $200
Shopping for a cordless vacuum under $200 offers a range of budget-friendly options that still deliver solid performance and essential features. These models are designed for convenience and versatility, making them ideal for quick clean-ups, smaller homes, or supplemental cleaning tools. Here are key considerations to help you select the right cordless vacuum in this price range.
Performance Across Floor Types
Even at this price point, a good cordless vacuum should handle both hard floors and carpets effectively. Look for models with reliable brush rolls or multi-surface cleaner heads to prevent clogging and snowplowing. Some vacuums include felt strips or soft rollers, which enhance performance on delicate flooring while maintaining suction on carpets.
Lightweight and Compact Design
Many cordless vacuums under $200 prioritize lightweight construction, which makes them easier to maneuver, carry upstairs, or use for quick touch-ups. Weighing under six pounds is common in this category, with some models featuring foldable handles or self-standing designs, making storage even more convenient in tight spaces.
Battery Life and Charging Options
While more affordable vacuums may not match the battery life of premium models, many still offer runtimes of 20 to 40 minutes on a single charge. Some models include two power modes, letting you switch to a lower setting for extended battery life. Removable batteries are also available in this category, providing an option to keep cleaning by swapping in a fully charged battery.
Attachments and Handheld Conversions
Even budget-friendly models often come with useful attachments like dusting brushes, crevice tools, and pet tools. Many also convert into handheld vacuums, enhancing their utility for furniture, stairs, or vehicle interiors. If versatility is a priority, opt for a model that offers multiple cleaning modes and attachment options.
Filtration Systems
Although advanced HEPA filtration might not be standard at this price, many vacuums in the under-$200 range still offer sealed filtration systems that trap dust and small particles. For households with pets or allergies, selecting a vacuum with efficient filtration will help improve indoor air quality by reducing dust and allergens. Read more about how we evaluate filtration performance here.
Handling Pet Hair
If you have pets, it’s important to choose a vacuum with features like anti-tangle brushes or active hair removal tools. While some budget models may struggle with thick pet hair, look for those with specialized attachments or brush rolls designed to manage hair effectively.
Convenience Features
Cordless vacuums under $200 often emphasize convenience. Features like LED lights on the floorhead can help illuminate dust in darker areas, while one-touch bin emptying makes maintenance straightforward. Wall-mounted docks or self-standing designs also provide easy storage solutions for quick access.
Bin Capacity and Maintenance
Smaller vacuums generally have limited dustbin capacities, so it’s helpful to select a model with an easy-to-empty bin that minimizes mess. Some vacuums offer one-touch release mechanisms, which make emptying the bin quick and hygienic.
Conclusion
Selecting a cordless vacuum under $200 involves finding the right mix of performance, convenience, and value. While these models may not offer every premium feature, many provide excellent cleaning capabilities on both carpets and hard floors, along with essential tools for pet hair and tight spaces. Whether you need a lightweight vacuum for quick clean-ups or a versatile model with attachments, the under-$200 category offers practical solutions to fit your needs without compromising on quality.
