Even if you remain unconvinced about robotic vacuum cleaners, manual vacuuming need not feel burdensome. The finest cordless vacuums can transform cleaning into an enjoyable task. The pleasure derived from collecting pet hair and establishing neat carpet lines, coupled with the ease of lightweight, one-handed sweeping, is difficult to resist.

I have faith in robot vacuums, but I trust my own abilities even more.

Choosing between a robot vacuum and a stick vacuum hinges on your cleanliness standards. While the prospect of cleaning without lifting a finger is enticing, some individuals might find it irritating to observe a robot vacuum overlook crumbs or get caught up in a phone charger. Despite advancements in smart mapping and cleaning capabilities, even the top-rated robot vacuums of 2025 cannot rival the precision of the leading cordless stick vacuums operated by a human.

Cordless vacuums hold a tangible advantage in challenging locations. For cleaning couch cushions, vehicle seats, staircases, or dusty spots behind doors, a stick vacuum that can be converted to handheld is the adaptable choice.

However, your readiness to clean manually is also significant. If you loathe vacuuming by hand and are inclined to delay it, a robot vacuum could help maintain cleaner floors. I utilize both types and recognize the merit in each, depending on the circumstances. Although I value the ease provided by robot vacuums, I frequently opt for a cordless vacuum.

I have experimented with numerous highly-rated vacuum cleaners and have suggestions for every budget. Here are the finest stick vacuums to purchase in 2025 based on performance and versatility.

Other cordless vacuums I have evaluated

I have tried various vacuums that didn’t make the most recent list. Some, such as the Shark Detect Pro with auto-empty station and LG All-in-One Cord Zero with auto-empty station, were top picks but have been outdone by newer models that present better value.

Certain older Dyson vacuums still garner interest, yet I do not recommend them over today’s alternatives. The Dyson V8 and V10 often push larger debris aside and leave pet hair on dark carpets. While they were robust in the late 2010s, $300 now affords a more powerful option, possibly featuring automatic emptying. The only edge Dyson has is the inclusion of the motorized hair screw tool.

I have also excluded the Dyson V15 Detect Submarine from the list. The Roborock 2-in-1 cordless mop provides a more integrated mopping system. The V15’s wet roller head obstructs airflow to the dust bin, resulting in ineffective wet suction and a cumbersome cleaning process susceptible to leaks and odors. It demanded excessive manual upkeep compared to the self-cleaning Roborock F25 Ace Combo.

I also evaluate robot vacuums. Are they equally powerful?

I try numerous robot vacuums at home. While they are handy for handling dust and crumbs throughout the week, cordless vacuums excel at tackling stubborn debris like pet hair or fine powders, particularly when they are embedded in rugs or corners.

Cordless stick vacuums are typically more powerful than robot vacuums. Their construction permits larger motors and sophisticated cyclone systems that amplify suction strength. A robot vacuum’s motor is constrained by its need to fit under furniture. Conversely, an upright vacuum’s motor is distinct from the vacuum head, allowing for fewer limitations.

One could argue that a cordless vacuum reduces debris more effectively because a person can concentrate the suction where it is most needed, including tricky areas a robot vacuum might overlook, such as stairs or vehicles.

In certain instances, a robot vacuum might equal or surpass a stick vacuum’s power. For instance, both the Roborock Saros 10R robot vacuum and Roborock F25 Ace cordless vacuum deliver 20,000 Pa suction power. However, robot vacuums with such strength are usually on the pricier side, whereas stick vacuums tend to be more budget-friendly. Even with comparable specifications, a cordless vacuum may achieve a higher pickup rate since the user can recognize when additional passes are necessary.