It’s always nice to have a good vacuum for your carpet, hard floor, and upholstery. They sure can pick up dust and debris easily but the premium models can go as much as $400 (who can afford that?). If you want a vacuum that doesn’t break the bank, we’ll help you find the best vacuum under $150.
Now, the question is, are there good vacuum models at this affordable price range? Let me tell you, there are a lot!
We rounded up 15 of the most affordable vacuums that don’t disappoint in terms of performance and share with you a guide that might help you buy an affordable vacuum on your own.
Best Vacuums Under $150: A Shortlist
In a Hurry? Here’s a summary of the top vacuums.
- Editor’s Choice: Shark Navigator DLX Upright Vacuum
- Best Budget: Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner
- Best Pet Vacuum: Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet 2254
Quick Summary
While I have picked every single vacuum on this list for specific, useful purposes, I have my top three that have almost everything you might be looking for in a good vacuum within budget. So let’s take a quick look at them, shall we?
This one is my all-time favorite vacuum. Whenever anyone wants recommendations, I start with this one. And why won’t I? It’s quick, easy and very good at its job.
If you are allergic, have pet hair, or live in a high-traffic area, this vacuum will do the job. It is great for deep cleaning any space as it removes even the smallest debris from the air. So your room will smell fresh and clean.
I picked this one for its excellent suction power. The 8-AMP motor on this vacuum can clean multiple surfaces effortlessly. If you have carpets and rugs, I suggest diving into this one. Trust me you won’t be disappointed.
If you have pets, look no further and just buy this vacuum already! Honestly, I haven’t found a single vacuum that does a better job at cleaning pet hair and fur than this one.
It has a Swivel rewind feature that removes all the dirt every single time. You can use it to remove pet hair from tricky areas like under the couch or behind the sofa too. It’s super convenient!
Comparison Table for the Best Vacuum Cleaner Under $150
| RANK | NAME | RATING | SHOPS |
| #1 | Shark Navigator DLX Upright Vacuum Type: Upright Corded Or Cordless: Corded Airflow (CFM): 145 Weight: 15.2 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity: 2.74 liters | 9.9 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #2 | Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner Type: Upright Corded or Cordless: Corded Airflow (CFM):120 Weight:10 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity:4.1 liters | 9.8 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #3 | Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet 2254 Type: Upright Corded or Cordless: Corded Airflow (CFM):95 Weight:16 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity:1 liter | 9.7 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #4 | Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet 2252 Type: Upright Corded or Cordless: Corded Airflow (CFM):85 Weight:15 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity:1 liter | 9.5 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #5 | Hoover WindTunnel MAX Bagged Upright Vacuum Type: Upright Corded or Cordless: Corded Airflow (CFM):106 Weight:15 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity:2.9 liters | 9.4 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #6 | Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS Upright Vacuum Cleaner XL Type: Upright Corded or Cordless: Corded Airflow (CFM): 39 Weight: 9 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity: 10.4 liters | 9.4 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #7 | Black + Decker BDH2020FL Flex Vac Type: Handheld Corded or Cordless: Cordless Airflow (CFM): 45 Weight: 3.2 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity: 0.6 liters | 9.3 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #8 | Hoover DustChaser Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Type: Handheld Corded or Cordless: Cordless Power Source: Battery Weight: 2.9 pounds | 9.2 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #9 | Shark Navigator Freestyle Premium Cordless Vacuum Type: Upright/Stick Corded or Cordless: Cordless Airflow (CFM): 29 Weight: 7.5 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity: 0.6 liters | 9.2 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
| #10 | Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner Type: Upright Corded or Cordless: Corded Surface: Hard floors, carpet, dual-action Weight: 8.29 lbs Dirt Tank Capacity: 2.2 liters | 9.2 | Check Latest Price Read Full Review |
Best Vacuum Cleaners You Can Buy for Less Than $150, IN ORDER
I know how hard it is to pick the best vacuum for under $150 with the many brands available on the market today. You have to know the product details and features so you’ll know which vacuum will fit your needs.
To give you an idea of how each vacuum performs, check my reviews below.
01. Shark Navigator DLX Upright Vacuum: Editor’s Choice
If you are allergic like me, chances are you want to keep the windows open 24/7. Living in a meteor city, it’s impossible to have fresh air and a fresh home. Because the moment you open those blinds, the whole house is filled with dust.
So what to do then? Do you bring out a bulky machine every time you need to clean some dust? I know I don’t. One of the reasons why I like Shark vacuums is because they are designed to make our life easier and simpler. Instead of worrying about how to get the cleaning done, their vacuum does the job for us.
This Shark Navigator stays as my all-time favorite simply because of its high filtration system. This upright vacuum cleaner comes with an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filters that catch even the smallest of debris from the air.
The Shark Navigator DLX comes with the largest airflow and input power out of all the vacuums I have reviewed. Nothing else comes close to the power of this thing. This is why I think it’s the best bagless vacuum cleaner under $150.
I love the anti-allergen mode so much. If you have pet hair, this is an excellent gadget for you too. It traps 99.9% of dust and allergens with its 2.74-liter dust cup. The cup capacity is large enough for you to clean your entire home in one go.
The Shark Navigator DLX has a swivel steering mechanism. The beauty of this feature is, you can clean under and around the furniture without having to move them. So if you have movement limitations or just want a convenient cleaner, this is the one for you.
The hose and wand are excellent for cleaning under your bed. I must admit the wand was not long enough to reach all the areas I wanted to. But the suction power on this device is unparalleled.
Most powerful vacuums make a ton of noise. But this vacuum is surprisingly quiet for such a powerful motor.
Product Specifications:
- Power Rating: 10 amps
- Power Cord Length: 25 feet
- Cleaning Path: 9.25 inches
- Bag Type: Bagless
- Filter: HEPA
- Cleaning System: Cyclonic
- Warranty: 5 years limited
- Special Features: Anti-allergen complete seal technology, swivel steering, brush roll shutoff
- Included Tools: Upholstery tool, crevice tool
Pros
- Powerful motor and strong suction power. So you will be able to remove even the smallest dust particles.
- Removes allergens and dust in your home. Great for allergic people like me.
- The dust cup is adequate enough to clean the whole house in one go.
- Good warranty coverage.
- Solid and durable construction
Cons
- The hose lacks flexibility. It would be better if the wand was a bit longer
- It does not have automatic cord rewind. This can be an issue especially if you are cleaning a small room.
02. Eureka PowerSpeed Upright Vacuum Cleaner: Best Budget Overall
Maybe you don’t have allergies but you want something that can really deep clean your home. For a lightweight vacuum with great suction power, Eureka PowerSpeed is an excellent choice.
I love how powerful the motor is on this upright vacuum cleaner. It has an 8-AMP motor to provide strong suction power. I mean, there is a reason why it’s called PowerSpeed!
If you have carpeted floors, you know the struggle of removing dirt from them. No matter how much you vacuum, dust seems to not leave the rugs at all.
That’s because most vacuums don’t have enough airflow to remove all the dust. The Eureka PowerSpeed is unique because it uses a Cyclonic Cleaning System to create strong airflow that can suck up even deeply embedded dirt.
Whether you have carpets, laminated floorings, or hardwood floors, this upright vacuum is a great option to go for.
The spoiling brush roll and the extended hose will allow you to reach the top of the furniture and under the bed. The great thing is, it adds efficiency to cleaning and makes the task faster.
What I most love about Eureka PowerSpeed is its large dust capacity. Look, we don’t think to do this before purchasing a vacuum. We are so focused on all the fancy features that we overlook the most basic things.
If your vacuum does not have a larger capacity dustbag, you will have to empty it several times. Imagine cleaning the whole house with a vacuum-like that. It would be a pain. This one has a 4.1-liter dust cup that allows you to clean continuously without dropping any suction power.
Emptying the cup is super easy too. Just press a button and clean the filter with cold water. It’s so easy.
Product Specifications:
- Power Rating: 8 amps
- Power Cord Length: 25 feet
- Cleaning Path: 12 inches
- Bag Type: Bagless
- Filter: Pre-motor foam
- Cleaning System: Cyclonic
- Warranty: 2 years
- Special Features: 5 height settings, quick-release handle, extra-large dust cup
- Included Tools: Crevice tool, dusting brush, upholstery tool, quick-release handle, extended hose
Pros
- Lightweight design. So you will be able to carry it everywhere.
- Washable filters require no maintenance costs.
- Extended hose allows you to clean even higher
- Large dustbin capacity (4.1 liters)
- Strong suction power
Cons
- No cord rewind feature
- A bit difficult to push on rugs
03. Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet 2254: Best Pet Vacuum
I was contemplating on picking one of two Bissel pet vacuum cleaners. They both are so good that it was very hard to pick one or the other. But then I thought, oh well, let’s add both!
So the first one is their latest model called Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind. This is for those with multiple pets. It’s packed with so many useful features that will make it super easy for you to remove any pet hair.
The issue with pet hair is that they tend to stick to any textured surfaces, so scrubbing won’t work on them and you end strong airflow and suction power. On top of that, there need to be some specific tools that help you ease the process.
Bissell CleanView 2254 comes with specialized pet tools that can remove hair from tricky areas. So whether it’s your couch or the carpet, this vacuum will get rid of the hair from it.
Have you tried removing pet hair from corners and furniture legs? I know the pain. This one comes with Pet Hair Corner Tools that remove them easily. The motorized Pet TurboEraser removes hair and dirt from carpets and fabrics. You can use it on stairs and upholstery too.
While all of these are great features, you also need a good dirt capacity. This one can hold up to 1 liter of pet hair and dirt. So you don’t have to clean it every 10 minutes.
This upright vacuum cleaner comes in three different settings: low, medium, and high. I find this rather useful especially while cleaning the rugs. You don’t want to damage the delicate fibers on those things.
Did I mention that Bissell CleanView has 5 height adjustments? It also has a triple-action brush roll, and a swivel mechanism to remove dirt from behind the furniture too. You can even use it to reach the ceiling if needed.
Thanks to its scatter-free technology, I found it to be very useful in cleaning hardwood floors without causing more mess. The retractable cord adds a cherry on top as it doesn’t get entangled with other furniture. Or God forbid, your pets!
Product Specifications:
- Power Rating: 8 amps
- Power Cord Length: 27 feet
- Surface Height Settings: 5
- Bag Type: Bagless
- Filter: Multi-level foam
- Cleaning System: Multi-cyclonic
- Warranty: 4 years limited
- Special Features: Triple action brush roll, scatter-free technology, swivel steering, automatic cord rewind
- Included Tools: Extension wand, pet hair corner tool, Pet TurboEraser, combination dusting brush, crevice tool
Pros
- Can pick up pet hair effectively.
- Comes with corner tools and an extendable handle.
- Supports a long 4-year warranty
- Easy to move around the corners
- Easy to empty the dirty tank (just push a button)
- The wonderful retractable cord design
Cons
- No variable suction control
- Small dirt cup capacity
04. Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet 2252: Best Upright Vacuum
One of the best upright vacuum cleaners under $150 is the Bissell CleanView Swivel pet 2252. It’s similar to the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind but without the automatic cord rewind feature.
They both are pretty similar in terms of features and performance. Yet the reason why I added Bissell CleanView 2252 is that it’s around a pound lighter than the previous model. This makes it more comfortable to hold for longer.
Just because it’s lighter does not mean it does less of a job than the 2254 model. This one has the same swivel steering mechanism and scatter-free technology I was mentioning earlier. You also get the 1-liter dust capacity, 8-AMP power ratings, and the famous Multi-Cyclonic cleaning system.
The difference comes from the warranty. While the Swivel 2254 comes with a 4-year long warranty, 2252 has a 3-year long warranty. This model is thus more affordable than the previous one. So you have to really ask yourself which one is more convenient for you. I think both are really excellent options for pet owners.
One important feature that the 2252 model lacks is the automatic cord rewind. Yes, it’s convenient to have that but if you don’t mind organizing the cord by yourself, why bother spending extra bucks on it?
I love how easy it is to go from carpeted floors to hardwood floors. You can also easily change rooms as the chord is actually 27-feet long. It’s actually the longest cord I have seen ever in a vacuum!
This feature is really useful so you can go from one room to another without having to replug. I love the pet hair corner tool. I use it to not only clean hair, but also to remove dirt from windows and stairs. Basically, any corners that you want to clean, this tool can do it.
Product Specifications:
- Power Rating: 8 amps
- Power Cord Length: 27 feet
- Surface Height Settings: 5
- Bag Type: Bagless
- Filter: Multi-level foam
- Cleaning System: Multi-cyclonic
- Warranty: 3 years
- Special Features: Swivel steering, scatter-free technology, triple action brush roll
- Included Tools: Extension wand, pet hair corner tool, Pet TurboEraser, dusting brush, crevice tool
Pros
- Includes efficient accessories
- A long power cord can reach more rooms
- Provides a good 3-year warranty
- Good enough to pick up pet hair
- Easy to move around
Cons
- Small dust cup capacity
- Some pet hair gets entangled on the belt compartment
05. Hoover WindTunnel MAX Bagged Upright Vacuum: Classic Choice
What do you look for in a good vacuum cleaner? Personally, I go for something with strong suction power and multiple cleaning attachments. The Hoover WindTunnel is a classic choice simply because it has all of those things.
You will find everything you can expect from a good cleaner in this one. Hoover WindTunnel comes with a 2.9-liter bag capacity that will let you clean the entire apartment without having to empty it once!
No matter what type of surface you want to vacuum, the Hoover WindTunnel can do it all. It comes with an adjustable nozzle for maximum convenience.
I looked at dozens of different models and the Hoover Windtunnel Max has one of the strongest suction power. At 106 CFM, it can pick up even larger chunks of debris easily. From pet hair, dirt to fine dust particles, you can use this vacuum on both hard floors and carpets.
If you have a hard time cleaning under the bed or behind the couch, use the telescopic pole to reach any place. The wand on this vacuum is 17 feet long. I love to use this to clean my curtains, fans, and ceilings.
I was wondering at first how it removes even the finest dust from the air. Then come to find out that Hoover WindTunnel has a HEPA media filter. In case you don’t know, this type of filter can catch up to 99.7% of particles from air. So your home will smell and feel fresher and lighter.
The 7 position height adjustment is another of my favorite features. You can easily change floors without having to adjust anything. This is useful especially when you move from the living room to the kitchen.
When you move from hard floors to carpets the brush roll shuts off by itself when the above cleaning tools are in use. The 3 channels of suction let you get rid of dirt with less scatter.
Product Specifications:
- Power Rating: 12 amps
- Power Cord Length: 30 feet
- Height Adjustment: 7
- Cleaning Path: 15 inches
- Bag Type: Bagged
- Filter: HEPA
- Warranty: 2 years
- Special Features: Adjustable nozzle, WindTunnel 3 technology, adjustable nozzle
- Included Tools: Telescoping extension wand, crevice tool, upholstery brush, air-powered hand tool
Pros
- Difficult to maneuver with its lack of swivel steering
- HEPA filter traps allergens and dust very well
- Removes debris with less scatter
- Strong suction power, especially on the hose
- The upholstery brush is great for furniture and stairs
Cons
- The friction design on the extension is flimsy
- Creates a horrible sound when in use
06. Oreck Commercial XL2100RHS Upright Vacuum Cleaner XL: Best for Carpets
Carpets are a pain to clean. They gather dirt and dust so much that an unclean carpet can cause many respiratory issues. I know I should clean my carpets every other day but who wants to move around a heavy vacuum in the house?
If you are specifically looking for a vacuum to clean your carpets, the Oreck Commercial XL vacuum is a gert choice with all the convenience.
The Oreck Commercial X2100RHS is a lightweight and upright vacuum cleaner that comes with a larger dust capacity than most household vacuums. Vacuums that are intended to clean carpets need to have extra dust space for obvious reasons.
I think this vacuum is not necessary for small apartments. This is a great vacuum for larger homes or for commercial use. With 10.4liters of dust capacity, you can expect it to be used for huge species without many breaks.
The bags are very cheap and affordable at the same time hypoallergenic by design. So if you are allergic like me, this will be your best friend in no time.
I love the microscopic feature of this vacuum because it lets you move between carpets to bare floors without having to change or push anything.
Usually, stronger vacuums can damage your delicate fabrics or furniture if not being very careful. The Oreck Commercial however won’t harm your things or baseboards because this unit comes with a non-marring bumper.
I find the top-fill bag design very convenient because it ensures no loss of power will happen even if the bag is filled with dust and dirt. But what about pet hair? Well, the Oreck Vacuum Cleaner can remove any pet hair or loose fibers as long as they are on the carpet and not on the stairs.
Product Specifications:
- Power Rating: 4 amps
- Power Cord Length: 35 feet
- Cleaning Path: 12 inches
- Bag Type: Bagged
- Filter: None
- Warranty: 1 year
- Special Features: Microsweep technology, top-fill design, non-marring bumpers
- Included Tools: None
Pros
- Deeply cleanse the carpet from grime and allergens
- Very large dust bag capacity
- Has a long cord to reach more rooms
- Lightweight and furniture-friendly
- Easy to use and maintain
Cons
- Doesn’t include extra cleaning tools
- Too loud that it might scare your pets
07. Black + Decker BDH2020FL Flex Vac: Best Handheld Vacuum
If you like a lightweight vacuum cleaner that reaches high and low to pick up dust and pet hair in your home, the Black + Decker BDH2020FL is something to check out. This handheld vacuum has all the right features to keep surroundings clean in minutes.
The Black + Decker BDH2020FL might be small in size but its performance is at par with traditional handheld vacuum cleaners.
The suction power is strong enough to pick up small particles of dirt and pet hair on bare floors and carpets. The included pet hairbrush works well on cleaning the furniture and upholstery.
Weighing 3.2 lbs, this handheld vacuum is lighter than many handheld models on the market today. It drives quite well with its hose locked into position and reaches up high with its 4-feet extension hose.
I like that the collection bin is easy to empty and it’s translucent so you can check the contents without opening it.
Product Specifications:
- Suction Power: 24 AW
- Battery Type: Lithium-ion
- Cell Capacity: 1.5
- Runtime: 16 minutes
- Charging Time: 4 hours
- Bag Type: Bagless
- Cleaning System: Cyclonic
- Warranty: 2 years limited
- Special Features: Fade-free power, 4-feet flexible extension hose, washable bowl
- Included Tools: Pet hairbrush, 2-in-1 nozzle/brush tool, crevice tool
Pros
- Easy to use and maneuver
- Can reach narrow areas, even up high
- Lightweight, compact, and portable
- Can pick up a ball of fur
- Fade-free battery power
Cons
- Cordless runtime is a bit short
- Operates quite loudly
08. Hoover DustChaser Handheld Vacuum Cleaner : Best Compact Vacuum
Remember that episode from Friends where Monica was using a small vacuum to clean her large vacuum? We don’t want to go that extreme but having a mini vacuum actually helps a lot.
Think of all the pet hairs on your couch cushions and pillows or breadcrumbs on the carpet and rugs. Who feels like bringing out a giant machine for small tasks like that? So what we end up doing is leaving those crumbs and cleaning them when we are vacuuming the room again.
Your cleaning routine should not feel like a chore. And the key to do that is to have a very simplified routine that bends in your lifestyle seamlessly. And you need the right tools for that.
The reason why I have added the Hoover DusChaser Handheld vacuum cleaner to the list is exactly because of that. It’s designed to make your life easier.
This vacuum cleaner comes with multipurpose tools that can get into tight spaces like behind the furniture, cars, and upholstery. It has extended nozzles and tools that are great for hard-to-reach spaces.
With each kit, you get a cordless dust chaser hand vacuum, one 2.0 Ah battery, a 2-in-1 dusting and crevice tool, an upholstery tool, and a charger.
Did I mention it is built with a high-performance digital motor? The dual-stage filtration with HEPA media is great for anime with allergies. It will catch even the smallest dust particles from the air.
Hoover DustChaser can capture up to 99.97% of dust, dirt, and allergens down to 0.3 microns. So it’s a very powerful yet handy little device to have around!
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Hoover
- Power Source: Battery Powered
- Color: White
- Surface Recommendation: Upholstery
- Model Name: DustChaser Cordless Mini Handheld Lightweight Vacuum Cleaner, Dry Handheld Vac
- Item Weight: 2.9 pounds
- Batteries: 1 Lithium-ion battery required
Pros
- The suction power is great for cleaning
- The battery lasts a long time
- The battery adds extra weight and provides a good balance
- Durable and high-quality construction
- Sleek and modern design, so easy to store anywhere
Cons
- The dirt cup is quite small due to the whole vacuum being so compact which can slow down cleaning a bit
09. Shark Navigator Freestyle Premium Cordless Vacuum: Best Cordless Vacuum
If you are looking for a premium option, why bother looking anywhere else? The Shark Navigator Freestyle Premium is a classic option in terms of reliability and performance.
Lightweight and powerful, this vacuum is perfect for going back and forth between abre floor and carpets. You can also clean your living room rugs without damaging the fibers. I have ruined my favorite rugs with vacuums before so I am still terrified of this.
You can use this vacuum to move into tight spaces and stairs without the issue of tripping over any cords. If you have kids or pets, you know how important this is.
The Shark Navigator Freestyle comes with a foot switch, something I have hardly seen on other vacuums. But it makes so much sense when you use it. With this feature, you can turn on the unit without having to bend down.
This button has two-speed settings for the carpet and the bare floor. I must mention that the carpet mode is quite noisy compared to the bare-floor mode. That’s mainly because the motorized brush spins a lot faster when you are cleaning the carpet.
The charging time on this vacuum can take four to seven hours at a minimum. The runtime actually varies based on what you are cleaning and how long you are using it.
So in terms of usability, I think the swivel steering mechanism along with its foot-switch makes it very easy to move around. The top-and-bottom empty design makes emptying the dust cup very easy without having to touch the dirt. Overall, it’s a great investment.
Product Specifications:
- Power Rating: 11.5 amps
- Cleaning Path: 10 inches
- Battery: 14.4-V nickel-metal hydride
- Runtime: 12 minutes (carpet), 17 minutes (bare floor)
- Charging Time: 3-5 hours
- Bag Type: Bagless
- Filter: Foam and mesh
- Warranty: 1 year limited
- Special Features: 2-speed settings, swivel steering, top-and-bottom empty design
- Included Tools: None
Pros
- Easy to maneuver with the swivel steering mechanism
- Doesn’t damage hard surfaces with rubberized wheels
- The battery doesn’t degrade even when overcharged
- Capable of picking up pet hair
- Dust tank is easy to empty
Cons
- Limited runtime
- Doesn’t come with any attachments
10. Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister Vacuum Cleaner: Best Bagless
First of all, this vacuum cleaner is bagless, which means you have to spend little to no time and money on maintenance. This is a big factor for me in choosing a vacuum.
Eureka makes their vacuums to be multi-surfaced so you can use it on both laminate and hardwood floorings. Every single part that comes with this vacuum has a snap-fit feature. So when you try to lock them in place, it takes only 3 seconds.
I like how lightweight this vacuum is. It weighs only 8.5 pounds. As it’s cordless you can carry it around and clean any part of the house.
Here comes the best part about Eureka WhirlWind. It is one of the lowest maintenance vacuums I have ever tried. All the parts that come with it need only water to clean. This includes both the dust cap and the filter.
With this vacuum, you will spend more time cleaning and less time struggling. The 2-in-1 Integrated Crevice tool that comes with Eureka WhirlWind is great for cleaning any hard-to-reach areas. So use this tool to clean your windows.
Let’s talk about the dust container. With a 2.5 lbs container, you need to empty it quite frequently. But emptying the dust cup is super easy. All it takes is just a push of a button.
Do you have a hard time cleaning the stairs? This vacuum cleaner comes with a swivel steering and telescoping metal wand. This is very useful to remove dust from under the furniture.
I liked how it has three different settings as well: carpet, upholstery, and hard floors. So it actually covers everything most of us are looking for in a vacuum. Let’s look at the specifications and pros and cons.
Product Specifications:
- Brand: Eureka
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Color: Blue
- Item Weight: 8.29 pounds
- Surface Recommendation: Dual Action
- Specific Uses: Hard floor, Carpet, Dual action
Pros
- This vacuum cleaner does not look bulky or unpleasant to the eye (Yes, this matters as nobody wants a device that looks odd in their household)
- The sleek design is very modern and classic
- The suction power is very strong
- As it’s lightweight, anyone can maneuver and clean with it
- Easy to get down under furniture
- The wand brush and crevice tool work really well
Cons
- The dust cup is quite small, so it needs to be emptied quite frequently
Buying the Best Vacuum Under $150: What You Need To Know
Nothing beats the convenience and speed of using a vacuum to clean any surface from dust and debris. For this reason, this popular household appliance comes in many brands and models. To help you make a smart purchase decision, read our buying guide below.
Understanding the Different Types of Vacuum:
There are six main types of vacuum cleaners, although some come in hybrid forms to bring more value to your money. Being aware of these different vacuum types helps you set the right expectations and create a more intelligent purchase decision.
Upright:
This is the most popular type of vacuum cleaners, a free-standing machine with a cord and a long handle that offers multiple height settings. These models provide the most powerful motors and include many attachments for more cleaning versatility.
They’re the best at deep cleaning carpets, especially the bagged models, but they tend to be heavier and noisier than canister models. Hoover WindTunnel MAX for example is a great upright option.
Stick:
If the upright vacuums are too bulky for you, the stick vacuum models might suit your needs. They have the least power among all vacuum models, but that’s to be expected since they have a slim construction and their dust capacity tends to be fairly small.
The slim design makes them perfect in reaching narrow areas on your hardwood floor, rugs, and light carpeting. They’re ideal for quick cleanups and tight spaces, like apartments and condos. A good option to go for is the Dirt Devil Simpli-Stik vacuum.
Canister:
The canister vacuum models offer the best of both worlds: the power of an upright cleaner and the slim design of a stick model. As expected of its hybrid design, they tend to be the most pricy models.
In this type, a separate canister is fixed to a long wand which you can use to clean bare floors, stairs, and underneath the furniture. They can accommodate a variety of different attachments making them more versatile than other vacuum models.
Handheld:
If you want to clean your vehicles’ interior, upholstery, and furniture, a handheld vacuum model is perfect. As its name implies, these models don’t have a cord to limit your coverage so you can bring it outdoors, even in camps. They use rechargeable batteries to power the machine, so expect limited runtimes and 3-5 charging times.
Wet/Dry:
Also known as shop vacuums, a wet/dry vacuum cleaner is quite the same as a regular vacuum but with the capability to suck up both dry and liquid messes. Those liquids can be about anything that’s not flammable, like wine, soda, and water.
These cylinder/drum models can be utilized both outdoors and indoors, and they often come with a blower for easy collection. The best wet/dry vacuum I found is the Armor All AA255 Utility vacuum. It has a 9.5 liters dirt tank capacity for thorough cleanup.
Robot:
Robot vacuums are getting popular these days and it comes with a good reason. Unlike traditional vacuums which require you to hold it while cleaning, robot models are totally hands-free.
These models roam around your floor and underneath your furniture to suck up any mess that comes to their paths. Expect basic features if you buy a robot vacuum for under $150.
Corded vs. Cordless:
Cordless vacuum cleaners are eating up the market share from more traditional corded vacuums. The question is, which is better between corded and cordless models? Let’s compare the two.
Corded vacuum cleaners have more suction power than their cordless counterparts because they’re plugged into the power outlet. For this reason, these cleaners give better results, especially in cleaning carpets.
You have no problem running out of battery and their heavy power is perfect for cleaning larger homes, which have many pets and carpets.
The cordless models are lightweight and portable to use because they can be used without a cord. Their compact design makes them easier to store and they can be handy in cleaning your car interior and upholstery.
The downsides are they have limited battery life and their dust capacity is smaller. You might need a wall mount to store your cordless vacuum while charging. I like the Shark Navigator Freestyle as it is both cordless and lightweight to carry around.
Bag vs. Bagless:
Another important thing to consider when buying a vacuum is to decide whether it to be a bag or bagless. The bag type doesn’t really affect the cleaning ability of the cleaner but it may matter if you’re environment-friendly or have allergies.
Bagged vacuum models are more suitable for those with allergies. Most bags are ensured to trap almost all of the dust and pollen in your carpets. However, you need to deal with the extra cost of buying replacement bags on a regular basis.
Go bagless if you don’t like the hassle of replacing bags every now and then. They’re more environment-friendly because you don’t have to dump the bags each time they’re filled with dust and debris.
However, they need more filters that need regular cleaning and emptying the bin can be an issue if you have allergies. Eureka WhirlWind is a great bagless option to look into.
What to Look for in a Good Vacuum Under $150
Motor Specifications:
The power rating, air watts, and airflow are among the specifications that you should take heed of because they indicate the motor power and cleaning ability of the vacuum.
As you well know, the motor is the most important aspect of a vacuum cleaner because it tells how efficient the machine is to suck up dust and debris.
The airflow is by a mile the most significant motor specification to determine the cleaning ability of a vacuum machine because it considers both the motor power and the bag/filter system resistance. This is measured in cubic feet per minute (CFM) and you should look for a higher CFM when you’re looking for a high-performance vacuum.
The power rating, which is expressed in amps, is a great indicator of how much electricity the vacuum will consume. Although a higher power rating doesn’t make a better cleaner, you can use the figure to estimate input power.
Just like amps, air watts measure the vacuum’s input power but some manufacturers use them to rate the cleaner’s output power.
Maneuverability:
As important as the suction power, the maneuverability of the vacuum is another thing that you should look for.
The best rated vacuum cleaners under 150 are lightweight so you can carry them anywhere in the house, like upstairs. They have an automatic cord rewind feature to prevent the cord from tangling into your feet and furniture.
The cord length matters when it comes to the usability of the vacuum cleaner. Longer cords let you clean your house with fewer interruptions.
The average cord length is 30 feet and this length allows you to maneuver the cleaner around your home with complete ease. Hoover DustChaser handheld vacuum is great for easy maneuverability.
Cordless vacuums are usually lightweight and weigh around 3 lbs. For upright models that usually belong to the heavier side, look for a swivel steering mechanism so the vacuum can move around corners with ease.
Filter:
The dust and debris picked up by a vacuum cleaner remain inside the machine thanks to its filters. A good vacuum has an excellent filtration system that wouldn’t let the dust escape through the exhaust port.
Many vacuums claim to filter the tiny particles that could pass through the cleaner and get away into the air through the exhaust. Micron filters can give a higher degree of filtration than standard models, but probably not as much as HEPA filtration.
HEPA filters can trap 99.9% of dust and allergens into the machine which could be beneficial to those with asthma. The Shark Navigator DLX has the best filtration system hands down.
Multi-level and pre-motor foam filters, on the other hand, are good at separating dust, dirt, and other debris before it reaches the sensitive parts of the machine. One good thing with these filters is that most of them are washable and can be reused.
Dust Cup/Bag Capacity:
The dust bag/cup capacity determines how much dust and debris can the machine hold before emptying it out. The desired capacity may depend on the size of your home and the kind of dust your machine has to suck up.
For larger homes and with pets, a larger dust capacity might be needed. The benefit of having a larger dust capacity is that you can change the bags or empty the dust cup less frequently. The corded models usually have a larger dust capacity than cordless models.
Eureka PowerSpeed has a dirt capacity of 4.1 liters so you will be able to clean without any break.
Attachments:
Watch for add-on cleaning tools because they provide more cleaning versatility to the vacuum cleaner. For the $150 price range, expect to have basic tools, like a crevice tool, upholstery brush, and if you’re lucky, a pet hairbrush.
A crevice tool can help you clean the corners in your room while the upholstery brush is perfect for catching the lint in your fabric sofas and chairs. A pet hairbrush is a nice addition if you have pets at home. If you want to use the vacuum for above-floor cleaning, look for extension wands.
Warranty:
A long warranty period typically means that the manufacturer has confidence in its product’s quality. For your peace of mind, look for a longer warranty period so you can get the cleaner repaired or replaced when you get a defective one.
For upright vacuums, anything more than 3 years is considered above average. A 1-year warranty is enough to cover models with lots of moving parts, like robot vacuums. Dirt Devil Endura Reach comes with a 2-year long warranty so you get good reliability from the brand.
Extra Features:
It would be nice to have a variable suction to clean different floor surfaces in your house. Cheaper models tend to have a lever to switch between carpets and hard floors. If noise bothers you, look for a quieter model though you can’t expect a whisper-quiet operation with this price range.
Another thing to consider is the weight which can vary from 3 lbs to 16 lbs for vacuums under $150. If you plan to carry it around upstairs, choose a lighter model.
Vacuums can get really messy so if you want the debris to not scatter around, look for a scatter-free technology that you can find on Bissell models.
Frequently Asked Questions
01. How Does a Vacuum Cleaner Work?
The vacuum cleaner is built with an electric motor to suck in air and push it into a bag or a canister. The fan on the motor spins and drops the pressure to let the air rush through the machine. A great visual representation is taking a sip of liquid from a straw.
In the air, all small particles (like dust and pet hair) might be caught up in it leaving you a clean surface. You can say that the electric motor is the heart of the vacuum cleaner because it creates airflow.
02. Should I Dust or Vacuum First?
The right sequence is to dust first, then vacuum. Small particles, like dust, are constantly hanging in the air so make sure that you wipe them off from the surface before you vacuum.
Use a damp cloth or a microfiber duster to wipe the surfaces and trap the dust. After that, proceed to vacuum to remove all remaining dust.
If you dust after vacuuming, some dust particles might linger in the air and settle back on the surfaces.
03. Is It Okay to Vacuum Every Day?
Yes, it’s okay to vacuum daily if you don’t mind the brushes getting worn out easily and your electric bills getting high if you’re using a corded model.
The benefit of having a clean home creates a healthy environment. The general rule is to vacuum daily in high-traffic areas or rooms and at least once a week for carpets.
04. How Do You Properly Vacuum a Carpet?
If you’re moving the vacuum back and forth, then you’re doing it wrong. The proper way is to go in rows. Move your vacuum in one direction, preferably against the nap to fluff up the carpet and make the embedded dirt come up easier.
You’ll know that you’re vacuuming against the nap if the carpet’s yarn sticks up or appears a bit messy.
Next, pull the vacuum back over that strip to lay the carpet back down and suck up some of the remaining dirt. Once you return to the starting place, vacuum the next strip, overlapping slightly.
Continue doing this until the entire room has been vacuumed and then, vacuum in the opposite direction. For example, if you were going top to bottom the first time, vacuum from left to right on the second pass.
05. Why Does My Vacuum Stink During Use?
Several problems can cause your vacuum to smell bad during use. If the vacuum smells like dried pet urine or excessive dust while in use, the roller head or beater brush might get stuck. The friction on the brush can burn the vacuum belt and generate an unpleasant odor.
Conclusion
All the vacuums that we reviewed above are great considering their low price but if we have to recommend the best vacuum under $150, we pick the Shark Navigator DLX Upright Vacuum because it has the best cleaning ability.
At 145 CFM, the Navigator DLX can pick up even larger chunks of debris with so much ease plus it comes with a 5-year warranty which is a good indicator of its quality.
You’ll surely love the Shark Navigator DLX if you’re prone to allergies because its HEPA filter and anti-allergen complete seal technology trap 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the unit.
Surprisingly, this is fairly lightweight and easy to maneuver with its swivel steering mechanism. Although it doesn’t have an automatic cord rewind like the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet 2254, the DLX has a larger dust cup capacity.
OUR #1 RECOMMENDATIONS
Shark Navigator Deluxe Upright Corded Bagless Vacuum
My #1 will always be Shark Navigator for its high filtration system. There aren’t a lot of upright vacuums that come with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and HEPA filters. So it can catch even the smallest of debris.
On top of that, the Shark DLX comes with the largest airflow and input power of all the vacuums on the list. So considering everything, I think right now this is the best vacuum under $150!