The handheld vacuum fills a unique cleaning niche and allows you to clean those tough to reach places with ease and have the convenience of being on hand to pick up those quick spills such as cereal in the kitchen. Â
Not to be mistaken with a cordless handheld stick vacuum which is quickly becoming the main vacuum for many households due to improved battery life and suction power.
The good handheld vacuum is one that has great suction and in most cases cordless. It’s something you want to quickly grab and suck up those crumbs on the sofa, the stairs or around the dining table. It’s not a vacuum cleaner that should be used to replace  your full-size regular vacuum
We have tested and reviewed around 50 popular handheld vacuum cleaners available in the UK, from Dyson, G-Tech, Shark along with a few unheard-of models that you often see on Amazon.
If you are in a hurry, then here are our best handheld vacuum picks, or continue below, for more detailed reviews and analysis.
Handheld Vacuum Buyers Guide Video
What Key Features to Look For
We have put together this quick video above outlining the key things to consider when looking to choose the best handheld vacuum cleaner – These Include
- Budget and what you can get for your money
- Type – there are few so choose wisely
- Weight, important if you want to keep those wrists in one piece
- Corded or Cordless – got to be cordless these daysÂ
- Battery Life to ensure you run out off juice
- Wet & Dry – perfect for quick spills of coffee or wine
- Attachments – get down those tight gaps in sofa and awkward areas
- Bin Capacity – If using for more that quick clear ups.
Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaners UK (in order)
1. Shark WV200UK Hand Held
Slim, Stylish and Powerful Handheld vacuum with Long Lasting Batteries
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 1.3kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 0.25L
- Charge Time: 2.5 hours
- Run Time: 9 minutes (18 with twin battery)
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
It’s a cordless handheld vacuum cleaner with a lot of styles, but also so much more than that. Behind the look, it has a surprising amount of power and quick cleaning capabilities to scoop up loose dirt, debris, and those annoying solid spillages.
It’s the kind of handheld vac that you whip out just before guests arrive because the dog jumped on the sofa and left a ball of fluff behind, or there are some offending crumbs littering the counter.
Is it flawless? Nothing it, but it comes pretty close.Â
Cleaning Power
It’s quite powerful for such a small machine, sucking up everything from coffee and dust to cereal. This is something we found really handy because of the number of messes we have to clean up each day; from kids and adults alike. It can also be used on the stairs, is effective on carpets, and is actually very good at collecting pet hair.Â
Even the car benefits from this vacuum as the slim profile means it can slide right down the side of the seats to collect all that stray and lingering grime.
It’s nice and light too, so you can whip it out of the charger with ease and it won’t feel heavy on your wrist while you are using it either. From our list of great models, this is our pick as the best handheld vacuum.
Battery Life and Charge Time
The biggest feature of this handheld vacuum cleaner is the fact that the batteries can be interchanged. So, if it runs out of charge and you need to clean a little more you can just put a second battery in and keep going.
The charging stand even has room for it so that you can switch between them with ease. Each battery lasts for around 9 minutes (with no turbo mode) giving you a potential total of 18 minutes.Â
The charging period is actually quite good, even for a handheld cordless vacuum. You only need to wait 2.5 hours for a full charge, but you can also take it off sooner if you need an emergency cleanup on a small spillage.Â
Bin Capacity
It does have a very small bin capacity at only 0.25L. If you want something larger, then a model like the  Dyson V8 featured below is probably a better model to go for in that regard; although it is also a bigger machine as a whole. The capacity might be little, but it is also easy to empty and slot back into the machine when you’re done.
Pros:
- Great suction for a small lightweight model
- Empties in seconds with flick of the switch
- Awesome to have on hand in the kitchen
- Plenty of battery charge for quick pickups
- Swappable batteries for longer lifeÂ
- Charges fully in just 2.5 hours
- Stylish charge station that looks the part
Cons:
- Quite noisy, but not a deal breaker
- Price maybe a little high for some, but worth every penny in my book
Read the full review of the Shark WV200UK handheld vacuum cleaner
2. HoLife Rechargeable Handheld Vacuum
Our Pick For Cyclonic technology at a great price
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 1.3kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 100ml
- Charge Time: 3-4 hours
- Run Time: 30 minutes
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
If you are looking for something that is reliable and affordable, then this could be the vacuum cleaner for you.
Take a look at the reviews below and see if this is enough to get your home squeaky clean.
The Good
This cordless vacuum cleaner has powerful cyclonic suction thanks to the 90W motor that has been installed.
As a result, it also provides up to 45-minutes of optimal cleaning power on a single charge, so nothing will get in your way. It has two power settings, ensuring that you can get your carpets perfectly clean without too much hassle.
It has also been designed to quickly convert into a handheld model, allowing you to clean your stairs efficiently, as well as other hard to reach areas of the home.
It has a great filtration system that makes it great for those who suffer from allergies and asthma, and the headlights couples with the swivel stick mean that no corner of your home will go untouched.
The Not So Good
A number of customers feel like the runtime is quite short when compared to other brands of cordless vacuum cleaner, and that it is not the same as the advertised amount.
Our View
While there are those who feel that this cordless vacuum is lacking in the charge department, it does come at an incredibly low price that can fit into just about any budget.
With powerful suction and cyclonic technology, your home will be left looking (and feeling) clean by the time you are done. Plus, it allows you to clean even the hardest to reach areas of your home. A great model at an excellent price.
Read a full review of the Holife handheld vacuum here.
FAQ’s
Q: On The Holife Handheld Model do you need to hold the switch down to use this hoover or can you just switch it on/off?
A:Â No you can just simply switch it on and off so it is easier to use for longer periods of time.Â
Q: It seems that Amazon is suggesting to start by buying bag filters for this Holife model … isn’t this bagless?Â
A:Â It is bagless but contains a small washable filter which is what Amazon is suggesting to buy. Although you are supplied with two spares to start with.
3. Gtech Multi Handheld
Small in size but not in power – Matches the feel of the famous UprightÂ
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 1.5kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 0.4L
- Charge Time: 4 hours
- Run Time: 20 minutes
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
This handheld vacuum is incredibly lightweight and incorporates all the power and technology of an upright vacuum into something smaller and far more portable.
It is completely cordless for an easier, faster, clean. The powerful motor in this vacuum will have your furniture, stairs, and car upholstery professionally clean in no time at all.
It’s flexible and easy to manoeuvre, so all of the nooks and crannies in your home can benefit from a good clean. Even the ceiling can be reached, and with excellent battery life, you can definitely get the job done.
It has a great range of attachments for everything from those that help to clean carpets to brushes that will make short work of furniture and car upholstery. The best part? It’s all stored away in the body of the vacuum.
Overall
This cordless handheld vacuum is great for cleaning your home quickly and efficiently. It has a range of fantastic attachments for you to use in order to get your house to the best level of cleanliness it can be.
With great battery life and a two-year guarantee, this is the perfect handheld vacuum for those that like a regular clean with all the power of an upright vacuum in a smaller device. Without a doubt, the best deal online for this model is direct from Gtech
Read a full review of the Gtech Multi here
Pros
- Lightweight
- Incredibly Powerful
- Gets close to walls as well as nooks/crannies
- Easy to use
- Comes with a range of attachements
- Long battery life
- Ideal for all surfaces
- Two-year guarantee
Cons
- None Really – A few complaints on suction power
4. Black+Decker 10.8 V Lithium-Ion Dustbuster
Best Budget Handheld Vacuum on the Market
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 1.3kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 0.25L
- Charge Time: 2.5 hours
- Run Time: 9 minutes (18 with twin battery)
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
Probably one of the best budget handheld vacuum cleaners on the market, this dustbuster from Black and Decker might be just what your home needs when you’re looking for a quick spruce up. Have a look and see for yourself.
The Good
Lightweight and cordless, this little dust buster makes the perfect companion for those who need to undertake a quick and efficient cleaning task before guests arrive or just to touch up the house.
It has a base charger for easy and convenient charging, allowing you to take it off and put it on charge with minimal thought and effort
It has a battery sensor, where LED lights will let you know how much charge is left and when it needs to be returned to its port.
The filter sensor also lets you know when the filter needs to be changed, so you won’t suddenly find your allergies triggered by dust and other microbes. With cyclonic suction, you can expect quite a bit of power from this little machine.
The Not So Good
It is very loud, and the noise is quite high pitched. You also have to turn on the high-power mode in order to switch it off, which adds hassle to your cleaning routine.
Our View
This dustbuster is lightweight, cordless, and easy to use, despite the little niggle when it comes to turning it off. While it can be quite noisy, it still does a great job of picking up dust and debris – which is perfect for a last-minute once over or just keeping on top of things in your home.
With a battery and filter sensor, you will always know what your dustbuster needs in order to fully function.
FAQ’s
Q: How many volts is this Black and Decker Dustbuster model?
A:Â The dustbuster is 10.8 volts dc from an internal lithium battery. The charger provides 14vdc at 400ma to the dustbuster via the base.
Q: Can you buy replacement filters for the Black and Decker Dustbuster model?
A:Â No need to the filters are washable so this means you will never have to replace them.
5. Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Vacuum
Powerful Handheld perfect for those with Allergies and Asthma
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 2.61kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 0.35L
- Charge Time: 5 hours
- Run Time: 40 minutesÂ
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
This superb stick vacuum can transform into a handheld model with great ease. Made by a reliable and trusted brand, Dyson is a great company, and they produce some of the most popular vacuum cleaner models on the market.
This particular model is bagless, so you don’t need to worry about the extra expense that comes with new bags.
It is also incredibly easy to empty, providing you with a mess-free experience. It has a great filtration system, perfect for those with asthma and allergies.
It also uses cyclonic technology for a better clean and more powerful suction. This model is also cordless, so you get a full 40-minutes of cleaning before you need to put it on charge.
Overall
Despite its high price, this model from Dyson will not disappoint. It can be used as a stick or a handheld vacuum, gliding through your home with ease.
It’s perfect for those who have a lot of pet hair to suck up, as well as those who suffer from asthma and allergies. The cyclonic technology is great for powerful suction, and the dust canister is incredibly easy to empty.
If you are looking for a good quality model that will get your home clean, this is the one to go for.
Read a full review of the Dyson V8 here
Pros
- Powerful suction
- Great for pets
- Can be used as a stick or handheld
- Good filter
- Perfect for those with asthma or allergies
- Cyclonic technology
- Cordless
- 40-minute run time
- Easy to empty dust canister
Cons
- It’s a lot heavier than expected
- Higher price
FAQ’s
Q: What’s the difference between the v8 animal and absolute
A: Dyson V8 Absolute – Made for hard floors
Dyson V8 Animal – For homes with petsÂ
Q: Does the V8 come with a tool kit?
A:Â No tool kit, just 2 rotating brushes, 1 small brush and 1 small extending tool. Dyson does free repairs during the guarantee.
6. Black + Decker Lithium Compact Pivot Vacuum
Lightweight, Compact and Pivot Handheld Vacuum
Key Features
- Type:Â Cylinder Vacuum
- Power : 500w
- Dust Capacity:Â 4.5l
- Weight:Â 7kg
- Corded/Cordless:Â Corded
This lightweight and compact handheld vacuum cleaner was designed to make your life easier.
It comes with a large, translucent, dust bowl that can be shaken out easily when it becomes full.
The filter can also be lifted out easily to be shaken out – all with no mess. It has an excellent design, folding in half so that it can stand on the charging base when not in use.
The pivoting nozzle means that it can reach just about anywhere, from the highest shelf, to right under the fridge. It uses cyclonic technology and has incredibly powerful suction to pick up all the dirt and dust it can find.
Plus, it’s so quiet you will hardly notice that it’s switched on. It also comes with a great range of tools and accessories, allowing you to dust as well as get into all the nooks and crannies in your home.
Overall
While this handheld vacuum comes at a higher price than most, it offers an exceptional level of power and suction, providing you with a fast and efficient clean.
The pivoting nozzle is its most impressive feature, allowing you to reach just about any surface – no matter how high or low it might be. With some great additional features, as well as tools and accessories, it has everything a full-size vacuum would in a smaller package.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Compact
- Pivot nozzle
- Removable filter
- Easy to empty dust bowl
- Charging stand
- Noiseless
- Comes with tools and accessories
- Strong suction
Cons
- Higher price
- Needs to be emptied frequently
7. Black+Decker Lithium FlexiÂ
Unique Compact Flexi Handheld Vacuum to reach those Hard to get Places
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 2.28kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 560ml
- Charge Time: 4 hours
- Run Time: 15 minutes
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
Vacuuming compact places can definitely be challenging, especially if you have a large vacuum cleaner.
While many homeowners refuse to purchase two vacuums, it may be necessary in order to clean your home thoroughly.
The Black+Decker Lithium Flexi handheld vacuum cleaner has a very unique design, plus it is a hand vacuum that is equipped with a 1.5-meter flexible hose, so you can reach into those tight areas. It is truly great for the car!
This vacuum is very unique, in that it is equipped with ECO technology, which allows the battery to charge quicker, plus the charging mechanism will shut off, when the battery reaches a full charge.
The dust collector is located very conveniently on the side of the vacuum and is very easy to manipulate just pop open the door and empty the content into the trash bin.
Overall, the Black+Decker Lithium Flexi Vacuum is designed to offer convenience and durability. In order to receive the fullest run time of each charge, be sure to allow the battery to charge completely, before each use.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Compact, lightweight, and portable
- User friendly
- Equipped with an ergonomically designed handle
- 1.5 Meter flexible hose, which wraps around the vacuum, when in storage
- Triple filtration system, so no dust is left behind
Cons
- Battery life is a little short, but it is capable of running about 15-20 minutes per charge
8. Vax H85-GA-P18 Gator
Best long lasting battery Handheld Vacuum for Pets
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 1.9kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 0.3L
- Charge Time: 12 hours
- Run Time: 20 minutesÂ
- Turbo Runtime: 20 minutes
Over the years, Vax has released an array of amazing handheld vacuums. The Vax H85-GA-P18 is undoubtedly one of their best. In fact, it could very well best the best rechargeable for pets!
The cordless design helps to ensure that it can be used much quicker and easier than corded models.
This handheld vacuum comes with built-in crevice tools, which give you the ability to clean up difficult messes and reach those normally tough to reach areas. The most impressive aspect of all may be the 18-volt battery, which delivers 20 minutes of runtime!
Those that have pets in their home will definitely be impressed with the vacuum’s powered turbo head. The head is capable of stripping hairs away from your carpet and upholstery with ease. The vacuum is capable of holding .3 litres of debris and weighs just 1.8kg. Additional pros and cons can be found below.
At the end of the day, the Vax H85-GA-P18 Gator is a great vacuum, with a few minute cons. Of course, these flaws are certainly not deal-breakers. For the price tag, this vacuum is truly a steal and should be added to your arsenal very soon!
At the end of the day, the Vax H85-GA-P18 Gator is a great vacuum, with a few minute cons. Of course, these flaws are certainly not deal breakers. For the price tag, this vacuum is truly a steal and should be added to your arsenal very soon!
Pros
- Not overly expensive and will not do a lot of damage to your wallet
- Weighs just 1.8kg, so you won’t hurt yourself
- 18-volts of power is an improvement over many others
- 20-minute runtime is very impressive and better than most
- Absolutely perfect for pet owners
- Quick, convenient and efficient use
- 2-year warranty, after registration
Cons
- Exterior build could be improved
- Fully charging the battery takes awhile
9. Vax H85-GA-B10 Gator
Durable and Lightweight Handheld for Family Homes
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 1.3kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 0.3L
- Charge Time: 12 hours
- Run Time: 15 minutesÂ
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
A handheld vacuum is a necessity if you own a vehicle and have small children living in your home.
The VAX H85-GA-B10 is designed to offer complete durability and convenience. It is very lightweight and equipped with an ergonomically designed handle.
The crevice tools are built into the vacuum, so everything will be within a hand’s reach away when you need to clean those tight areas.
The 10.8-volt battery is significantly powerful and offers a run time of 15 minutes on each charge.
The debris container is very easy to empty and only takes minutes to complete the process.
The filtering system is designed to capture the smallest debris, so nothing gets left behind when you are vacuuming.
Overall, the VAX H85-GA-B10 Gar is designed to offer convenience and longevity. In order to get the highest run time out of the vacuum, be sure to allow the battery to charge fully, before each use.
To read the full guide on the best Vax Gator handheld review then read here.
Pros
- Extremely affordable
- Lightweight and portable
- Built-in crevice tools
- Includes a 2-Year manufacturer’s warranty
- Cordless design
- Equipped with a 10.8-volt rechargeable battery
Cons
- Battery life is a little limited
10. Black+Decker Wet And Dry Dustbuster
Best Wet & Dry Handheld Vacuum
Key Features
- Corded/Cordless: Cordless
- Weight: 1.16kgÂ
- Bin Capacity: 0.175L
- Charge Time: 4 hours
- Run Time: 12 minutesÂ
- Turbo Runtime: N/A
Many consumers are interested in finding a steal and nothing more. If you fit into this category, you should take the time to check out the Black+Decker Wet and Dry Dustbuster.
This is undoubtedly the best wet and dry handheld vacuum, yet it will not break the bank. It delivers an immensely amount of convenience since the consumer can simply grab the vacuum and use it right away.
The 4.8 volts of power should be more than sufficient for the majority of household cleanups.
Whether you’re cleaning up spills or dry debris, you will have no difficulties with the Dustbuster. It is incredibly versatile and is capable of cleaning up both seamlessly.
For added convenience, you will be able to clean out the bowl and filter, before replacing them.Â
The one-touch bowl removal makes this immensely easy. To keep everything organized and out of the way, the charger can be mounted on your mall, if desired. The vacuum delivers 12 minutes of runtime, which is very respectable. More pros and cons can be found below.
Truthfully, it is hard to complain about the Black+Decker Wet and Dry Dustbuster. The vacuum is very affordable and comes with an impressive battery. If you are looking for a steal, you should definitely check out this vacuum.
Pros
- One of the most affordable on the market
- Weighs just 1.2kg for easier use
- 4.8 volts of power should be more than enough for most household tasks
- Offers 12 minutes of runtime
- Washable filter makes use efficient and cost effective
- Charging station can be wall mounted for easy organization
- Great for wet and dry cleanups
Cons
- Could be a little more powerful
- Clogs up a little too easy
To ConcludeÂ
Whether it’s the size, design, power or price, your choice of handheld vacuum cleaners really depends on you. While we can provide you with our recommendations and expert advice and we must say that the models in this best list are all great options for various reasons, your needs and requirements will still dictate what type of vacuum you need to get.
Our picks at Smart Vacuums for the UK’s best handheld vacuum would be the Shark WV200UK if you have the budget or the HoLife Rechargeable Handheld if budget dictates.
Should you need further advice or if you have any other details to add, please do not hesitate to leave a comment below. We’ll try our best to get back to you as soon as possible. Please do check this site regularly for updates.
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.
