Vacuum cleaners are an incredibly important part of our lives and cleaning routines.
Without them, carpets would remain dirty and filled with hair, and even the wood floors would be lacking that extra sparkle.
Of course, a vacuum cleaner can be quite expensive to purchase as well, and not everyone wants to spend several hundred pounds on a new vacuum.
Of course, the question remains with regards to whether or not cheap vacuums are as good as their expensive counterparts, and if so, which are the best cheap vacuums to buy.
If you are on a budget, then our guide to the best budget vacuum cleaner under £100 is a must-read. We review the top 10 cheaps (but still good) vacuums on the UK market.
Whether you have pets or just need something cheap for your wood floors, there is sure to be the best vacuum cleaners under 100 here that suits your needs.
Best Budget Vacuum Cleaners Under £100 ( UK Models)
1. Duronic Bagless Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner VC5010
Best Budget Hepa Vac for the Money
Key Features
- Type: Cylinder Vacuum
- Power : 500w
- Dust Capacity: 4.5l
- Weight: 7kg
- Corded/Cordless: Corded
Duronic is a tough brand and one that has served households well for many years. This particular vacuum cleaner slots nicely into the budget range; leaving you a good chunk of your £100 to spare. Ready and able, have a read through the reviews and see what you think.
The Good
Despite the smaller motor, this model remains very powerful. Its suction is impressive, with cyclonic technology that helps it to collect fine dust and dirt as well as maintain suction even when the canister starts to fill up.
It isn’t quite as powerful as the Amazon Basics or VonHaus models featured here, but you won’t even notice because it pretty much matches them in terms of pick-up. It also has a HEPA filter that picks up 99.7% of allergens; ideal for those with asthma or allergies.
One of the best features is that it comes with four tools to help you keep your home in excellent shape. It has the usual crevice tool and upholstery brush, but there is also a turbo tool for those tough spots of carpet and thicker materials as well as a brush for hard floors to help you get rid of all the dust and grime.
It is a bagless model with a large 4.5L capacity, and it is fairly simple to empty without making a mess. Thanks to the flexible hose and telescopic wand, it can also be used for above-floor cleaning, reaching everywhere from the stairs to the furniture and ceiling.
The Not So Good
We found that it’s not great for carpets, especially long-pile. It does a good job on the shorter ones, but those with thick carpets might want to consider a different model.
Our View
It’s a very affordable model, and when you look at the price you really see just how much you are getting for your money. It’s not great on thick carpets, and it doesn’t always manage to reach the deeper dirt in them, but it excels everywhere else. Plus, if you’re willing to put a little extra time and elbow grease into it the turbo tool can really help.
It’s got a great filtration system, a large capacity, and it was made to be easy to handle. Perfect on hard floors and for allergy sufferers, it’s one of the best budget models under £100 we have.
2. AmazonBasics Cylinder Vacuum Cleaner
No frills but effective basic cylinder vac with Hepa filter
Key Features
- Type: Cylinder Vacuum
- Power : 700w
- Dust Capacity: 1.5l
- Weight: 3.5kg
The Amazon Basics line is becoming increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. They offer affordable household goods that are still of great quality. This cylinder vacuum cleaner is no exception, and it could be just what you need to keep on top of the housework.
The Good
This vacuum cleaner has an impressive amount of power considering the price and works well on both carpets and hard floors. The triple-action nozzle is superb at collecting fine dust and debris, which is ideal for those with asthma and allergies.
When you combine this with the fact it has a HEPA 12 filter, it becomes even more impressive. The filter is able to collect 99.5% of allergens, including things like pollen and pet dander, and only pushes clean air back out.
It has a 1.5L capacity and is a bagged vacuum cleaner to make things more convenient when emptying. However, the Duronic featured in our guide has a much larger 4.5L capacity if you want less frequent emptying. It comes with bags, and additional ones are actually quite affordable.
The cord is a good length and can be wound back into the vacuum for easier storage. It also comes with the traditional accessories; crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool. Completed with a telescopic wand, both above and below floor cleaning can be tackled with ease.
The Not So Good
It’s not great for homes with pets, especially as it lacks a pet tool.
Our View
This little vacuum cleaner has a lot going for it. Lightweight, easy to handle, and full of potential, it zooms around the home for a truly excellent price. It’s not great for homes with pets, but if you don’t have any fluffy friends around then it doesn’t get much better than this.
A cylinder vacuum cleaner that has a lot of portability and can reach pretty much every corner (not to mention sit neatly on the stairs), it’s the kind of machine that rivals even the higher-end models and easily comes within our £100 budget.
3. VonHaus Wet and Dry Vacuum Cleaner
A powerful wet & dry vacuum cleaner at a very reasonable price
Key Features
- Type: Wet/Dry Vacuum
- Power : 1200w
- Dust Capacity: 15l
- Weight: 5kg
- Corded/Cordless: Corded
VonHaus is an excellent household brand and one that we have trusted and relied on for many years. A wet/dry vacuum can be such an advantage; especially if you have kids that are prone to spilling juice or milk! They aren’t all heavy and expensive, and this model is a prime example.
The Good
The power that this machine has is incredible and is certainly one of (if not the) highest-powered models that we have featured. Its suction is very good as a result, and it can pick up everything from fine dust to metal shavings.
It can be used indoors and outdoors, which also works well if you like to do a lot of DIY in the garden. The hose and tubes were made to be durable, which is why they can deal with any construction-level waste inside and out of your home.
The blowing function is one of the most interesting, as it doesn’t just dislodge debris from difficult places; it can also be used to inflate items. The 15L capacity also means you don’t need to worry about emptying it every few minutes, and you can insert a collection bag for dry waste.
There is also a safety valve that will cut out if it gets too full. The tools are excellent, and they really are the icing on the cake. The usual crevice and upholstery tools are included, but you also get a floor brush for carpets and hard floors and a series of extension tubes.
The Not So Good
It is very noisy, and customers have noted that it feels louder than regular vacuum cleaners. If you want something quieter, the Amazon Basics model featured has exceptionally low levels of volume. However, it can only clean up dry messes.
Our View
There is a lot going on with this vacuum cleaner, and pretty much all of it is good. The price is surprisingly low when you consider its power and capabilities. It is really loud, and this can be quite shocking when you first turn it on, but it’s worth it for the cleaning power.
Whether wet or dry, every mess is taken care of effortlessly. Plus, it can be used to inflate things; a strange but potentially useful quality to have. Overall, it’s a fantastic choice if you want something that isn’t too heavy and can take a lot on.
4. VYTRONIX BCS01 Cordless Vacuum
Great run time for a budget cordless vacuum
Key Features
- Type: Cordless Vacuum
- Run Time: 40mins
- Dust Capacity: 0.5l
- Weight: 2.3kg
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
This cordless vacuum cleaner that is perfect when you’re on a tight budget. It may not be perfect, but it will keep your house clean and ensure it looks (and feels) presentable at all times.
The Good
There’s a lot to like about this cordless vacuum, the main thing being that it has a fantastic running time for such an affordable model.
It can keep going for a good 40 minutes, and the charge time is only 3-4 hours; even better than models like the Dyson V8.
This also means that it is suitable for larger homes. There are also great accessories, including a crevice tool and dusting brush for a more versatile and thorough clean.
It is lightweight, which makes handling easier, and it converts into a handheld model so that you can reach the stairs effortlessly, as well as upholstery. The motorised brush bar works hard to pick up debris and grime from your floors, and it’s reasonably strong for a vacuum in this price bracket.
The dust capacity is 0.5L, which is ok for a handheld vacuum cleaner. It is easy to remove and empty into the bin, and you can always see when it is getting full.
The Not So Good
It’s not the best choice if you have carpets, especially as it struggles with fine dust. This is the main reason it’s not suitable for those with asthma and allergies.
Our View
This model from VYTRONIX is the definition of cheap and cheerful, and it actually has a good amount to offer despite the smaller price tag. It’s not the right machine for carpets or allergy sufferers, but for those with hard floors, it’s ideal if you want the cordless vac and you’re in need of something affordable.
It’s quiet when running, has an excellent battery life and charging period, and comes with the standard accessories we have all come to expect. For a budget model, we can’t deny that it’s certainly one of the best.
With all that said, the overall quality, suction and durability don’t match that of any of the corded models featured in this guide. If you want a longer-lasting and more effective cordless vacuum you will need to up your budget to nearer £200. Read our cordless vacuum guide here.
5. Morphy Richards 732005 2-in-1 Supervac
Super lightweight 2 in 1 cordless vacuum
Key Features
- Type: Cordless Vacuum
- Run Time: 35mins
- Dust Capacity: 0.5l
- Weight: 3.4kg
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
This vacuum cleaner from reliable brand Morphy Richards features a sleek design that will blend in nicely with your home.
The Good
Lightweight and easy to use, you can expect powerful cleaning performance and a runtime of 35 minutes from this cordless vacuum cleaner model.
The fact that it is cordless also means that you have more freedom to clean around the home without worrying about where the next socket might be.
It also converts to a handheld model, which is perfect for stairs and other tricky areas.
With a range of accessories included as well, you are sure to be left with a spotless home when you are finished with this vacuum.
Compact and suitable for all floor types, there is nothing that cannot be tackled by the 732005, and even the dust canister is easy to empty, making things that much simpler for you.
In any vac, the filter is essential, as it stops dust and allergen particles from finding their way back into the room, and this one is brilliant. This is great for allergy sufferers – helping remove all the dust. I also found it’s very quiet, so you won’t find the noise too annoying.
The Not So Good
It will need to be emptied more frequently than other models due to a smaller dust capacity canister.
Our View
This vacuum cleaner is affordable and excellently priced considering what you are getting, making it an ideal choice for those who want a clean home without the tools to do so costing the Earth.
While it does need to be emptied frequently, it does have a great running time and superb suction, two things that are guaranteed to leave your home looking great, and you feeling good about the results. You can read our unbiased review of the 2-in-1 Morphy Richards 732005-1
FAQ’s
Q: Does the Morphy Richards 2 in 1 have a hepa filter?
A: Yes it does and it is very efficient.
Q: Can this Morphy Richards model be stored on the charging cradle?
A: Yes absolutely that is what the charging cradle is designed.
Q: Can I get replacement filters for the 732005-1 vacuum easy enough?
A: Yes you can get genuine ones at Amazon under £10 here or unbranded generic ones for a few pounds.
6. VonHaus Bagless Cylinder Vacuum
A Great Bagless Cylinder Vacuum on a budget
Key Features
- Type: Bagless Cylinder Vacuum
- Run Time: N/A
- Dust Capacity: 3.5l
- Weight: 5.4kg
- Corded/Cordless: Corded
It offers high levels of suction, so you can make sure that your carpet is as clean as possible, and it works to suck up even the most embedded dirt and grime in your carpets.
Plus, the power cable is really long so you don’t have to keep switching sockets.
The Good
The cyclonic technology promises fade-free suction, and it is equipped with a HEPA filter that captures 99.9% of all allergens, pushing clean air back into the home – making it perfect for asthma and allergy sufferers.
There are several speed options available, and the dial is easy to access to you can adjust them accordingly. Plus, it comes with a fantastic selection of tools and accessories.
The Not So Good
It does have a flimsy feel to it, and sometimes parts fall off while in use (although these can be put back on easily).
Our View
This vacuum cleaner is one of the cheapest around, so if you are on a tight budget this is the one you should be looking at. While it does feel a little flimsy, and parts sometimes fall off, there is no need to worry as they can be put back on without any hassle.
The suction is incredible for such a cheap model, and you can really feel it sucking up the carpet when you run it over the floor. Bagless and with a great filtration system, it has everything you need for a good cleaning experience.
7. Zanussi ZAN4100IW
Energy Rated A Budget Vacuum
Key Features
- Type: Cylinder Vacuum
- Run Time: N/A
- Dust Capacity: 3.5l
- Weight: 3.6kg
- Corded/Cordless: Corded
This compact vacuum cleaner may be smaller than most, but that certainly doesn’t make it any less powerful.
The Good
It is designed for a smaller home and is easy to store away in cupboards and other such spaces.
It’s lightweight (3.6Kg), and it is superb at picking up dust, so you don’t need to worry about a lack of suction.
The dual nozzle is perfect for carpeted floors and hard ones, and the extension tubes not only allow you to reach difficult corners but also the ceiling edges as well. Cobwebs stand no chance.
It is fitted with an EasyGo Hygiene Filter to keep your house fresh and the air nice and clean.
With its smooth design and excellent power, this is one of the best low-cost upright vacuum cleaners on the market. It also boasts an “A” energy rating.
The Not So Good
Customers have found it a little bulky to lift up and down the stairs.
Our View
If you are looking for a cheap vacuum cleaner to whizz around the house a few times a week, then this is just the thing for you.
It has excellent suction, is easy to store, and the accessories allow you to clean multiple floor types as well as the upholstery and ceiling.
It’s great for allergy sufferers on a budget and should serve you well while you use it. A good vacuum with a cheap price tag.
8. Hoover WR71WR01001 Whirlwind
Classic Yet Powerful Affordable Upright
Key Features
- Type: Cylinder Vacuum
- Power : 500w
- Dust Capacity: 4.5l
- Weight: 7kg
- Corded/Cordless: Corded
There is a saying that goes something along the lines of every Hoover is a vacuum, but not every vacuum is a Hoover, and it is very true.
Often seen as the original vacuum cleaner, Hoover is a brand that pride itself on a classic yet powerful design – and an affordable price tag.
The Good
This upright vacuum cleaner comes in a great shade of red that will spice things up a little when you are cleaning your home.
It has a class A energy rating, so will save you a little money on your energy bill, as well as a powerful motor that will provide excellent suction to ensure that your carpets and hard floors are given the deep clean they need and deserve.
It is bagless with a good capacity, so you won’t need to empty it constantly in order to use it, and it uses a one-touch system so that you can just tip everything straight into the bin without getting your hands messy.
There are several tools onboard to make cleaning easier, and they can also be used for above-floor cleaning. Lightweight and compact, it’s a sturdy and robust piece of kit.
The Not So Good
The cable is a little short, and it can be tricky to handle at times.
Our View
This upright vacuum cleaner comes at a great low price, so you can fit it into your spending budget quite nicely. While the cable is a little short and it is not always the easiest model of vacuum cleaner to handle, it is excellent value for money.
Once you have gotten used to handling it, things will become much easier for you. It comes from a reputable brand, ad really does make for a sturdy vacuum cleaner, with the added bonus of being both lightweight and compact.
9. Hoover TH71 SM02001 Smart Bagless
Retro Energy Efficent Bagless Vacuum
Key Features
- Type: Cylinder Vacuum
- Run Time: N/A
- Dust Capacity: 3l
- Weight: 6kg
- Corded/Cordless: Corded
Another fantastic model from leading brand Hoover, this model could be exactly what you need, especially if the previous one wasn’t quite what you were searching for.
Take some time to read the reviews below and see if this could be the perfect upright vacuum cleaner for your home and your bank account.
The Good
This model of vacuum cleaner comes in a really fun combination of red and white that looks strangely retro and modern at the same time.
Like the previous Hoover model, it has an A rating for energy efficiency, so it will be kind to your energy bills. The dust capacity is large, so you won’t have to keep emptying it, and the procedure, once it gets full, is really easy.
It works fantastically well on all floor types and it is also perfect for use in homes with pets as it has incredible suction that will get all the fur and fluff out of your carpet. There is even a turbo brush for those really tough and stubborn areas.
The smart combines also work with the motors for efficient dust pickup that doesn’t leave you coughing and sneezing.
The Not So Good
The dust canister can be a little difficult to empty once it gets full.
Our View
This inexpensive upright vacuum cleaner is a great choice for those who want something cheap, reliable, and great for homes that have pets. The dust canister is not always the easiest thing to empty, but after a few rounds, you should have the hang of it with no issues.
The suction is powerful, and it comes with a range of tools to make life easier when you are vacuuming. Overall, it is a great budget vacuum cleaner from a trusted and reliable brand (it’s on top with the best vacuum cleaner).
Buyer’s Guide
Before you can go and buy the best and cheapest vacuum cleaner you need to have a clear idea of what to look out for and consider. That’s the purpose of this UK buyer’s guide; giving you all the key facts to help you make the best decision for your home and budget.
Is Cheaper Better?
There is a lot of stigma towards cheap vacuum cleaners. The general consensus is that you have to spend a small fortune if you want one that is good enough to keep your home clean. That’s simply not true; you can get a great vacuum cleaner for £100 or less, and many of them will match the performance found in more expensive models.
The thing you have to remember is that you might not get everything you want in a cheaper model. As an example, if you want something with incredible suction, you may have to give up those extra attachments or go for something that has a smaller capacity. They don’t tend to be massive trades, but they can have some impact on your choices.
Can I Get the Brands I Like Cheap?
Yes, there is a common misconception that leading brands don’t produce cheap models. You don’t have to go with some sketchy-sounding unknown name if you don’t want to.
There are affordable models of vacuum cleaners from brands like Hoover, Vax, Duronic, and Morphy Richards to name a few. So, you’re spoiled for choice when sticking with the names you love.
Corded or Cordless?
This is always a tough one and a heavily debated topic. Should you go corded or cordless? We do have some great cordless models in this guide, but they aren’t quite as good as sticking with a corded one.
This is because to really get the most out of the suction and power, you need to spend upwards of £150-£200. So, for this particular price range, we would generally recommend going with a corded vacuum cleaner unless you have minimal traffic and dust in your home.
What to Look For
Your budget vacuum cleaner might not end up perfect, but there are still some key features to keep an eye out for. You may have to pick and choose, but you can use this quick list to highlight the ones that are most important to you.
Suction Power: It always used to be that cheaper machines had lower suction power, but we now have the advantage of improved technology. A lot of it is thanks to the EU legislation that limits the power of a vacuum cleaner, as it has meant that manufacturers have had to find new ways to get amazing suction while also using a lot less power. So far, it is working wonderfully.
Dust Capacity: A lot of the budget models do tend to have a smaller dust capacity, but you may also be surprised to find some decent sizes. Take a close look at the specs before you buy, and make a note of the kind of size you want. It’s important to keep in mind that smaller canisters mean more frequent emptying.
Bagged or Bagless: Keeping it short, bagged models are better for those with asthma and allergies, but bagless ones are cheaper over time. It can be expensive to keep buying bags for your machine every time one fills up, but they are also more secure and really keep the dust and debris inside to reduce the chance of a reaction when you empty it.
Filter: The ultimate filter is the HEPA filter because it traps 99.7% of allergens and keeps the air clean. However, they also add to the price of a vacuum cleaner. Your next best bet is a washable filter that can be removed and cleaned on a regular basis. It’s a necessary feature if you have asthma or allergies.
Attachments: You’ll likely just get the basics with a cheap vacuum cleaner; a crevice tool and dusting brush, maybe an upholstery tool. Some may not come with any. If you’re looking for pet tools or motorised brushes, you are likely to have to increase your budget.
To Conclude
Purchasing a vacuum cleaner is never an easy task, especially with such a wide selection of them available. When you are on a budget, it can be even more difficult because you end up wondering if cheap vacuums are just as good as expensive ones.
The short answer is yes. Cheap vacuum cleaners can offer just as much power and versatility as their more expensive counterparts.
So if you are looking to spend less than £100, you don’t need to be concerned that you might be missing out on additional features.
When it comes to selecting your vacuum, just remember to keep in mind the purpose you need it for. After all, vacuums operate differently depending on their intended use.
Those that are made to deal with animal hair, for example, will have more powerful suction and those that are there to help allergy sufferers will be fitted with HEPA (or similar) filters to catch the allergens and prevent them from spreading across the house.
No matter what you need it for, you are sure to find a cheap vacuum that suits your needs here.
What did you think of our best vacuum cleaners under 100 guide? Are there ones that you would have added to the list? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you!
Last Updated on February 3, 2022 by Gemma Tyler
Gemma Tyler is a freelance journalist with 15 years of experience writing for consumer publications. She has tested and reviewed a wide range of household items from vacuum cleaners to washing machines and dehumidifiers to steam irons. Her attention to detail and exhaustive testing certainly makes her an expert in her field.
