The Best Cordless Stick Vacuum
The most powerful, lightweight cordless vacuum that's easy to maneuver and genuinely picks up everything. · Updated June 27, 2026
Dyson V12 Detect Slim
$480Buy on Amazon
★star.shop pickWirecutter pick
Pros
- Strong, consistent suction that handles both hard floors and carpet without losing power
- Lightweight and slim for its class, making overhead and under-furniture cleaning easy
- Green laser reveals fine dust on hard floors so you can actually see what you're picking up
- Real-time particle counter and good filtration capture fine debris and allergens
- Click-in battery and broad tool ecosystem make it versatile for the whole home
Cons
- Premium price — noticeably more expensive than capable budget alternatives
- Runtime on max/boost mode is short, so it's best for quick cleans rather than whole-home marathons
- Smaller dust bin than upright vacuums means more frequent emptying
Minor nitpicks
- Replacement batteries and filters add to long-term cost
- Trigger must be held during use unless you use the lock attachment
The other picks
- WirecutterShark PowerDetect Clean & Empty Cordless Vacuum — Co-top pick with a self-emptying base and lower price
- WirecutterTineco GO Pet Cordless Vacuum — Budget pick that handles pet hair well for far less money
- WirecutterRyobi 18V One+ HP Advanced Stick Vacuum Kit — Best if you already own Ryobi One+ batteries