The 19 Best Vacuums Under $200 in 2021

You probably know that some best vacuums can be a bit expensive. And although the price usually has a lot to do with features and innovative technologies, some of the best vacuums are under $200.

You can still find some of the best vacuums even on a smaller budget. However, you have to be a bit more careful and precise about what exactly you need from the cleaner.

Looking for a vacuum under $200? Take a look below to discover some of the best models and a buyer’s guide on how to pick one.

In case you’re in a rush, check out our most affordable favorites:

Top Vacuum Cleaners Under $200

Kenmore 22614 Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagless Compact Canister Vacuum

(Best Affordable Canister Vacuum)

Kenmore 22614 is one of the best vacuum cleaners among pet vacuums. It’s bagless, featuring a mid-size dirt bin that’s quite easy to empty. The bin is transparent so that you can easily see when it’s time to empty it.

The Kenmore 22614 features a HEPA filter that traps up to 99.97% dust particles, dog hair, dander, and other allergens. It keeps them sealed inside the canister so that none can go back to your breathing space.

This one comes with a Pet Powermate motorized attachment, which is a pet power brush specifically designed to clean pet hair and dander from different floor surfaces. Its unique design prevents tangling, so it’s suitable for long hairs as well.

It comes with a dusting brush and a crevice tool, as well as a telescopic wand that extends to 9′ in total.

Kenmore 22614 Pet Friendly Lightweight Bagless Compact Canister Vacuum

Specifications

  • Telescopic Wand Reach: 9 ft
  • Power Cord: 24 ft
  • Weight: 26 lbs

Pros

  • Retractable 24′ long power cord
  • Four height settings
  • Accessories such as the crevice tool, dusting brush, and pet power brush

Cons

  • Weighs 22 pounds

Sanitaire S3681D Sanitaire Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum

(Affordable Lightweight Canister)

 

This Sanitaire vacuum might be one of your best choices if you’re looking for a lightweight canister. It weighs less than 10 pounds, which is quite lightweight for this type of vacuum cleaner.

It features auto carpet height option, so you don’t have to worry about transitioning from one surface to another. Plus, it performs equally as well on hardwood flooring and tile floors as it does on area rugs and low pile carpets.

One of the best things about this quality vacuum is the number of attachments it comes with. The package includes onboard tools like a crevice tool, horsehair dusting brush, combination floor tool, and a telescoping wand for an extended reach.

The vacuum comes with a 20′ long power cord, which isn’t the longest you can find, but it should be enough for most households with at least two available power sockets.

Sanitaire S3681D Sanitaire Mighty Mite Canister Vacuum

Specifications

  • Wattage: 1000
  • Weight: 11.5 lbs
  • Power Cord: 20 ft

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Height settings
  • Onboard accessories such as the crevice tool

Cons

  • Not for high pile carpets

Bissell Deluxe Canister Vacuum – 1161

(Versatile Option for All Floor Types)

Bissell Deluxe 1161 is a bagless canister suitable for different floor types. It’s a compact and lightweight cleaner, weighing only 9 pounds in total.

Although it looks like a classic bagged canister, this one doesn’t have a bag but a dust bin. It’s a 1L dirt bin that’s quite easy to empty without touching any of the dirty contents.

This quality vacuum has non-marking rubber wheels, so you don’t have to worry if it will damage your floors. It’s safe to use on different rugs as well as bare floors and wood floors.

Its fingertip controls make this lightweight vacuum ideal for elderly people and everyone who is prone to back pain. On top of that, its weight and wheels help with maneuverability and portability, allowing you to carry it from one room to another with ease.

Bissell Deluxe Canister Vacuum - 1161

Specifications

  • Power: 7 amps
  • Weight: 9.1 lbs
  • Bin Capacity: 1 l

Pros

  • Easy to empty
  • For carpets and hardwood floors
  • Gentle, rubber wheels

Cons

  • Not for pet hairs

Ovente Bagless Canister Cyclonic Vacuum (ST2010)

Ovente ST2010 is bagless and corded, sporting some 1200Watts and cyclonic action that provides strong suction power. It features multi-level HEPA filtration, so it’s best for pets and allergy-prone people.

The vacuum comes with a few premium attachments like a pet/sofa brush, combination crevice too/bristle brush, floor brush, and a telescoping wand. It’s a bagless vacuum cleaner under $200 that features automatic cord rewind and 360° swivel for easier maneuverability.

Its power button is designed so that you can step on it, allowing you to turn the vacuum on or off by stepping on it. This is ideal for elderly people and everyone who is prone to back pain.

The Ovente has a transparent bin, but it’s rather small, so you’ll maybe have to empty it a few times during cleaning. It features a full-bin indicator with LED headlights.

Ovente Bagless Canister Cyclonic Vacuum (ST2010)

Specifications

  • Wattage: 1200
  • Weight: 12 lbs
  • Cord: 188.5 in

Pros

  • Automatic cord rewind
  • Full-bin indicator with LED headlights
  • HEPA filter

Cons

  • Short cable (15′)

Hoover Air Revolve Canister Vacuum SH40090PC

(Strong Suction for Deep Cleaning)

This is a unique canister vacuum cleaner designed for different floor types. It is also one of the best canister vacuum options for hardwood floors as well as carpeted areas, featuring a powered floor nozzle.

The vacuum works with the brand’s WindTunnel 3 technology that creates three channels of suction power. As a result, it picks up even the most embedded dirt, pet hair, and debris.

Its unique design makes it easy to maneuver with at all times. The 360° pivoting technology allows you to maneuver the vacuum, working around furniture legs and other obstacles with ease.

It’s a bagless vacuum that has a mid-size bin. It’s see-through and easy to empty when full, which you’ll probably have to do after each cleaning session.

Another important thing to mention is the automatic cord rewind. However, the cord is relatively short, measuring only 20′.

Hoover Air Revolve Canister Vacuum SH40090PC

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 12.5 x 9 x 14.2 in
  • Weight: 22.6 lbs
  • Cord: 20 ft

Pros

  • Flexible extension hose
  • Both for hardwood floor and carpeted areas
  • Strong suction power

Cons

  • Weighs 22 pounds

BISSELL Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252

(Best Option under $200 for Pet Owners)

The Cleanview 2252 bagless upright is one of the best upright vacuum cleaners that’s $200 that’s ideal to use if you have pets. It’s powerful and easy to use, although it appears somewhat bulky and large.

It features swivel steering, which expands the cleaning radius. Plus, the vacuum can clean near edges and corners, which is particularly important when cleaning pet hair that always hides there.

This bagless upright comes with specialized tools, including motorized pet tool and pet hair corner tool. On top of that, this upright works with Scatter-Free Technology, so you can pick kitty litter and kibble as well.

This pet hair bagless features a transparent 1L bin that’s quite easy to empty. It has washable filters that only need an occasional rinse now and then.

BISSELL Cleanview Swivel Pet 2252

Specifications

  • Bin Capacity: 1 l
  • Weight: 17.95 lbs
  • Cord: 27 ft

Pros

  • Triple action brush roll and swivel steering
  • Bottom-empty bin
  • 6′ hose + 27′ power cord

Cons

  • Requires frequent emptying

BISSELL Cleanview Swivel

This upright might look like the Cleanview we reviewed earlier, but there’s a slight difference. Nonetheless, it’s among the best for households with pets as it’s a part of the brand’s pet collection.

It features a triple action brush roll combined with Scatter-Free Technology, working together to clean everything for pet hair and dander to kitty litter and kibble thanks to its cleaning power.

The vacuum comes with a 27′ long power cord that automatically rewinds for easier use, and it also requires less storage space. Plus, it has an extension hose for some added reach, especially when it comes to above-floor surfaces.

It’s equipped with swivel steering which contributes to the cleaning radius. This is especially useful for rooms with plenty of furniture and obstacles. Also, it includes tools like the Pet Turbo Eraser tool and the Pet Hair Corner tool.

BISSELL Cleanview Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner

Specifications

  • Bin Capacity: 1 l
  • Weight: 16 lbs
  • Cord: 27 ft

Pros

  • Edge-to-edge cleaning ability
  • Pet tools included
  • Scatter-Free technology

Cons

  • No brush roll shut-off option

Shark Navigator DLX Upright Vacuum

Shark Navigator is always a good choice when looking for a one that’s under $200. This upright bagless vacuum has a 2.9-quarts bin that’s easy to empty.

The large capacity and ease of emptying make the vacuum particularly suitable for large households and people who have pets. On top of that, the Shark Navigator features a HEPA filter that traps up to 99.99% of dust particles, dirt, and pet hair, ensuring none of it goes back onto your floors.

This Shark Navigator upright vacuum weighs around 15 pounds, but it’s quite easy to push around. Plus, swivel steering helps with maneuverability that much more, especially when it comes to cleaning around furniture.

It’s best for carpets and hard floors since you can shut off its motorized brush. This allows you to clean gentle and smooth surfaces without damaging them.

Shark Navigator DLX Upright Vacuum

Specifications

  • Bin Capacity: 2.9 qt
  • Weight: 15.2 lbs
  • Cord: 25 ft

Pros

  • 25′ long power cord
  • HEPA filtration
  • On/Off brush roll

Cons

  • Not the best for edge cleaning

Should you go for Shark Navigator or Shark Rotator? See the comparison.

Hoover T-Series WindTunnel Rewind UH70120

This Hoover is among the best options if you’re looking for a powerful vacuum under 200 dollars with great cleaning power. It uses the brand’s WindTunnel Technology to create sufficient suction power that picks up even the most persistent dirt and dust.

It features a HEPA filter that traps up to 99.97% of dust particles, dirt, pet hair, and allergens for better air quality. For this reason, it’s recommended for households with pets and people who are sensitive to dust.

The vacuum features five height settings, allowing you to go from one floor surface to another with ease. Plus, its 25′ long cord allows for a wide cleaning radius.

One of the best details is its no-scuff bumper that serves to protect your furniture as well as the vacuum. A crevice tool, dusting tool, powered hand tool, and an extension wand are also included.

Hoover T-Series WindTunnel Rewind UH70120

Specifications

  • Hose Length: 8 ft
  • Weight: 16.5 lbs
  • Cord: 25 ft

Pros

  • 8′ stretch hose
  • Retractable cord and extension wand
  • System check indicator

Cons

  • The indicator goes off for every little thing

Eureka PowerSpeed

Eureka PowerSpeed is a powerful upright vacuum designed for whole-home clean. It features a dynamic motor and a powerful brush that can clean heavy and stubborn debris. On top of that, its 12.6” wide cleaning path helps to get the job done faster.

This upright vacuum is quite lightweight, weighing only 10 pounds. Although it seems large and bulky, it’s easy to maneuver with regardless of the floor surface thanks to its smooth wheels and five height settings.

The vacuum has a large bin, measuring approx. 4.1L. This allows you to cover a larger area without having to empty the dust tank as frequently. Plus, this upright vacuum comes with a large number of handy accessories like a 7” long crevice tool, a pet upholstery tool, and a dusting attachment.

Eureka PowerSpeed Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner, Lite

Specifications

  • Bin Capacity: 4.1 l
  • Weight: 10 lbs
  • Cord Length: 25 ft

Pros

  • 25′ power cable + 7′ hose
  • Large bin
  • Quiet operation

Cons

  • Not for tight spaces

Homasy Portable Handheld (Cordless)

This Homsay is powerful and compact, so it’s ideal for spot-cleaning and quick cleanups. It’s among the best to use in your car thanks to its long-lasting battery power and some 30 minutes of run time.

This cordless vacuum cleaner sports suction up to 8Kpa, picking up everything on its way from small particles to larger debris. Also, it’s bagless, featuring an easy-to-empty 600ml dirt tank.

This handheld comes with a crevice tool, dusting brush a rubber tool for sucking up liquids. It can clean up to 100ml of liquids, which is especially convenient for kitchen and car interior.

Another thing important to mention is its safety. This one is equipped with temperature, input voltage, input current, and short circuit protection to deliver safe cleaning at all times.

Homasy Portable Handheld Vacuum Cleaner Cordless

Specifications

  • Dirt Tank Capacity: 600 ml
  • Weight: 3.26 lbs
  • Run Time: 30 min

Pros

  • For wet and dry messes
  • Cordless
  • Washable filters

Cons

  • It takes 5 hours to recharge

BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser is one of the best handheld vacuums under $200 to use if you have pets. It has a powerful suction that’s enough to clean even the most embedded pet fur and dander. For this reason, it’s a great tool to clean your vehicle if you usually ride with your furry friend.

Its 14V lithium-ion battery provides up to 17 minutes of run time. Although this seems relatively short, you probably won’t need any longer for car interior maintenance or spot-cleaning.

It comes with a motorized brush tool, crevice nozzle, and upholstery tool. However, keep in mind that its motorized tools reduce the overall run time.

The 0.7L dust bin is transparent and easy to empty without touching the dirty contents inside. It’s equipped with triple-level filtration, which is among the best filtration systems.

BISSELL Pet Hair Eraser Lithium Ion Cordless Hand Vacuum

Specifications

  • Bin Capacity: 0.7 l
  • Weight: 3.26 lbs
  • Run Time: 17 min

Pros

  • Easy to empty
  • Lightweight
  • Motorized tool included

Cons

  • Filters aren’t sold separately

Vaclife Handheld Vacuum

Vaclife handheld comes with plenty of attachments and is powerful, compact, and lightweight. It’s a cordless vacuum with a battery that lasts some 20 to 30 minutes on a full charge. On top of that, this one takes 2.5 to 3 hours to recharge, which is considered fast charging.

It features a stainless steel HEPA filtration that traps all the tiny allergens so that they don’t return to your breathing space. Plus, the filter is washable and reusable.

Thanks to its long-lasting battery and useful attachments, this one is ideal for cleaning your house and car. It comes with a crevice nozzle, dusting attachment, and an extension hose.

This one has LED lights, which is great when cleaning tight and hard-to-reach areas, especially in low-light conditions.

Vaclife Handheld Vacuum

Specifications

  • Dimensions: 17.2 x 5.5 x 5.2 in
  • Weight: 1.94 lbs
  • Run Time: 30 min

Pros

  • LED lights
  • Long battery life (30 min)
  • HEPA filtration

Cons

  • No battery indicator

MOOSOO Handheld Vacuum 12KPa Cordless

This Moosoo is unique and easily one of the most compact handhelds. It’s equipped with advanced brushless technology, delivering some 12Ka of suction. However, it has two modes, allowing you to adjust the suction based on the surface you’re cleaning.

Its compact shape makes it easy to store away and clean tight areas, while its weight makes it easy to use at all times. The vacuum weighs only a pound, so its suitable even for older individuals.

It features a high-density 13-level HEPA, making it one of the best handhelds to use if you’re sensitive to dust and other allergens. It traps all of it, ensuring that the air it expels is clean. On the inside, it has a stainless steel mesh cover that helps to separate dust and is washable.

A brush and crevice attachment is also included.

MOOSOO Handheld Vacuum 12KPa Cordless

Specifications

  • Suction: 12kPa
  • Weight: 1.1 lbs
  • Run Time: 24 min

Pros

  • Lightweight and slim
  • 13-level HEPA filtration
  • Two suction modes

Cons

  • It’s loud

ECOVACS DEEBOT 661 Convertible Vacuuming or Mopping Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

Ecovacs Deebot 661 might be the most versatile robot vacuum under $200. This one can vacuum and mop equally as well, thanks to its interchangeable dust bin and water tank. You can easily swap between the two depending on your needs at the time.

The robot navigates your floors with ease regardless of whether it’s mopping or vacuuming. Its battery lasts some 110 minutes, which should be enough to cover most areas. On top of that, the robot returns to its docking station to recharge before picking up where it left off.

It also features Max Mode power for increased suction power for more embedded dirt and stubborn stains. It’s equipped with HEPA filtration, as well as an automatic software update.

This robotic vacuum has a basic set of sensors, including anti-drop and anti-collision sensors. It comes with a remote.

ECOVACS DEEBOT 661 Convertible Vacuuming or Mopping Robotic Vacuum Cleaner

Specifications

  • Filtration: HEPA
  • Weight: 7.49 lbs
  • Run Time: 110 min

Pros

  • Protective bumpers
  • Large wheels
  • Dual length brushes

Cons

  • Not the best mapping

If this option doesn’t fit your budget, see our selection of the top robots under $100.

ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner

This robot vacuum under $200 is equipped with tangle-free technology that helps it clean all the hairs without any issues. However, it does a better job on a hard floor than it does on carpets, which is something to remember.

Its low profile design allows the vacuum to clean under furniture. It comes with a remote, so you can help it out without actually touching it in case it gets stuck.

This one features a programmable schedule, self-charging, and smart sensors. Its anti-bump and anti-fall sensors help protect it from falling and bumping into objects with too much force.

This low profile design vacuum runs for about 90 to 100 minutes, which is usually enough even for a large home. Keep in mind that you should empty it after each use and replace its filter every month.

ILIFE V3s Pro Robot Vacuum Cleaner

Specifications

  • Bin Capacity: 600 ml
  • Weight: 4.5 lbs
  • Run Time: up to 120 min

Pros

  • Tangle-free technology and low profile design
  • Long battery life
  • 10mm climbing height

Cons

  • No app control

Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac

This Eufy robot vacuum is re-engineered to be slimmer, quieter, and more efficient. It’s equipped with the brand’s unique BoostIQ technology that increases its suction power in areas with more concentrated dirt.

Its battery lasts about 100 minutes on a hard floor, and probably somewhat less on carpeted areas. However, the robot remains quiet regardless of the floor surface it’s cleaning.

Its anti-scratch tempered glass-top cover protects it from scratching when cleaning under furniture. Also, it has infrared sensors that help it avoid obstacles and prevent it from falling down when cleaning stairs.

The vacuum knows when it’s about to run out of battery, so it stops cleaning and goes back to its charging dock. Once it’s charged, the robot picks up where it left off.

It comes with remote control and two AAA batteries included.

Eufy BoostIQ RoboVac

Specifications

  • Suction Power: 1300 Pa
  • Weight: 5.73 lbs
  • Run Time: 100 min

Pros

  • High-performance filters
  • Automatically increases suction power
  • Four brushes included

Cons

  • Cannot clean black surfaces

ECOVACS DEEBOT 500

Deebot 500 has two side brushes and the main brush that helps it clean everything on its way. It has three cleaning modes, allowing you to customize the cleaning performance depending on your needs and preferences.

This is an innovative robot under $200 that works with Alexa, Google Assistant, and Ecovacs Smart App. Through the app, you can check its status, change between cleaning modes, schedule cleaning, and control the robot.

Its battery lasts 110 minutes, depending on the mode it’s using. On Max mode, the suction power is increased up to 2x, which reduces its runtime. The robot returns to its docking station to recharge on its own.

Deebot 500 has anti-drop and anti-collision sensors that protect it from falling and bumping into your furniture. Also, it has an anti-scratch finish and protective bumper.

Specifications

  • Bin Capacity: 520 ml
  • Weight: 4.4 lbs
  • Run Time: 110 min

Pros

  • Four dual-length side brushes
  • High-efficiency air filter
  • Remote control included

Cons

  • No mapping (random cleaning)

Coredy Robot Vacuum Cleaner

This Coredy robot vacuums and mops your floors, eliminating dirt and dust from under the furniture and in corners. It includes a 3-point cleaning system combined with dual-edge brushes that clean even the most persistent dirt.

It comes with remote control, allowing you to schedule cleaning sessions, customize its performance, and follow the cleaning status. Its wet-dry moping function is particularly convenient for pet owners and people who have small children.

Much like all robots, this one has anti-collision and anti-drop sensors, helping it stay away from stairs and other obstacles. The vacuum has five cleaning modes, allowing you to choose based on how dirty your floor is. Still, keep in mind that some modes reduce the run time.

Its battery is designed to last 120 minutes, although max suction shortens that time quite a lot.

Specifications

  • Capacity: 550 ml
  • Weight: 9 lbs
  • Run Time: 120 min

Pros

  • An extra filter included
  • Four side brushes
  • Vacuums and mops

Cons

  • Not the best scheduling system

Buying Considerations

Finding an efficient, powerful vacuum that is affordable isn’t as simple because you don’t want to compromise quality. There are buying factors you shouldn’t overlook regardless of your budget.

For this reason, take some time to check the guide below as we discuss the most important buying considerations when looking for the best vacuum under $200.

Price Point

As you probably know, vacuums can be quite expensive, ranging up to $1800 and more. However, you don’t always have to pay thousands of dollars for a cleaning appliance, since you can still find quality models at a more affordable price.

Most vacuum companies try to be versatile, offering models at different prices so that there’s something for everyone’s budget. For this reason, you can find an affordable one from pretty much any major brand name.

This makes it somewhat easier to find the best vacuum under $200 as long as you consider a few other factors along with the price tags.

Power

Power level is always critical, so make sure to give it a good thought. You should look for strong suction and possibly even suction control that’s especially important if you have combined flooring throughout your house.

Keep in mind that some models are more powerful than others, so don’t expect a handheld to have the same suction as an upright vacuum.

Suction

As we already mentioned in this buyer’s guide, powerful suction makes all the difference among all cleaning devices. Some have stronger suction than others, so make sure to double-check if that matches your preferences and needs.

Also, consider going for one that has suction control since it’s more versatile.

Warranty

You should always check the warranty that comes with your vacuum cleaner. It usually ranges from brand to brand, so pay special attention to all the details of the deal.

Typically, warranties cover damage caused by faulty manufacturing and materials. Everything else is most likely excluded from the deal.

Accessories

Vacuum cleaning is best done with a few different accessories. For this reason, you should look for a vacuum that has at least a crevice nozzle and a dusting tool. Luckily, most vacuum cleaners under $200 often come with even more accessories.

Cord / Cordless

Cordless vacuums are typically more expensive, so you’ll notice it’s not as simple to find the best vacuum under $200 that doesn’t have a cord. However, this doesn’t apply to robots and handheld vacuums since they’re nearly always cordless vacuums.

When it comes to corded vacuums, double-check if the length of the cord fits your needs.

Bag / Bagless

Choosing between the two depends on your needs and preferences. Luckily, you can find the best vacuum cleaners under $200 in either version.

Bagged vacuums are best for allergy-prone people, given that they have an adequate filter. On the other hand, bagless are more eco-friendly and cost-efficient.

Maneuverability

Maneuverability depends on the type of vacuum you go for. A cordless vacuum is quite easy to maneuver with, but a corded can be as simple if it has a long power cord.

Weight and the overall design also play a significant role. Keep in mind that some vacuums have wheels as well.

Maintenance

Pretty much every vacuum cleaner under $200 is relatively simple to maintain. In most cases, you’ll have to empty its dust cup or replace its bag.

Filtration also requires maintenance, although HEPA filters can be both washable and replaceable. Other types of filters require the same maintenance.

Cleaning Tasks

You should always consider cleaning tasks before you opt for any particular vacuum. Some vacuums are better for certain cleaning tasks than others, so you want to get that right.

Think about how often you’ll use the vacuum and for what purpose since this can greatly affect your choice.

Filtration

When it comes to filters, you want to be particularly careful if you’re prone to allergies. If that’s the case, opt for HEPA filters since they’re the most efficient at trapping allergens.

Other forms of filtration exist as well, but make sure to consider efficiency as well as ease and cost of maintenance.

Pets

Pets can make the biggest mess, which is why it’s important to clean your floors regularly. If you’re a proud pet owner, you can still find an efficient vacuum under 200 dollars.

Opt for the one with motorized pet tools and a reliable filtration system that can trap hair and dander.

Read more: Highest Rated Pet Hair Cleaners

Versatility

Most vacuums can do more than just one type of floor, but the level of versatility usually differs between each model. The most versatile vacuums are the ones with height adjustment settings, suction power control, and several accessories.

Some vacuums within this price range can also clean liquid.

Brush Roll Adjustment

Brush roll adjustment is critical if you have hard floors. Brush roll spins and can damage the delicate surface, so you want to be able to shut it off or at least lift it off the floor.

Height adjustment is a handy feature that allows you to clean a wider range of flooring.

Noise

Nearly every vacuum under 200 dollars that we reviewed is relatively quiet. Still, people have different opinions about what’s the acceptable level of noise, so what’s quiet for you might not be as quiet for someone else.

Generally speaking, try to stay around decibel level of 70 as that probably won’t disturb your household or neighbors.

Related post: Top Low-Noise Vacuum Models

Vacuum Type

As you noticed, the market is packed with vacuums at this price range. However, some are uprights, while others are canisters, which can make it a bit tricky to choose.

Canister

Canisters usually have lots of suction power and capacity. Old-school models are bagged, but new, more modern are bagless, so you can choose based on your preference.

Best canister vacuum is ideal for cleaning all kinds of floors since they typically have height adjustment and several cleaning tools. However, canisters are among the heaviest vacuums on the market, which is something to consider if you have a multi-floor house.

Upright

Upright vacuums also have powerful suction, but they’re typically lighter than canister vacuums. They’re maneuverable, although they look quite bulky and cumbersome.

An upright vacuum is a good choice for large areas since it usually has a large dust cup. Both corded and cordless models are available.

The only downside is that upright vacuums don’t really include as many accessories. For this reason, they might not be as suitable for tight areas.

Handheld

Handheld cleaners are meant to be used for spot-cleaning and maintenance. They’re perfect for picking up small messes and cleaning your car interior.

Some come with a few accessories, although cheaper models are more basic. In most cases, suction power is not the strongest, but it should be enough to clean small piles of dirt and debris.

Nearly every handheld vacuum is bagless and cordless, although corded models can be found as well.

Robot

Robots are the most innovative on our list. They’re the best when it comes to floor maintenance with minimal assistance and effort on your part.

These cleaners are often the most expensive out of all the types, although you can find some under $200 as well. In most cases, affordable models don’t have high-end features.

Still, even the most affordable models clean, recharge, avoid obstacles, and go from one room to another without any help from you.

Why Choose an Inexpensive Vacuum

People often think that the best vacuums have to be expensive. However, this isn’t always true because some of the best vacuums are under $200.

Let’s discuss some of the most important features that you can still have in a budget vacuum.

Efficiency

A vacuum cleaner under $200 can be equally as impressive as a more expensive vacuum. Affordable vacuums come with nearly the same features, so they’re pretty efficient and easy to work with.

Take some time to compare a budget vacuum to a similar, more expensive one. You’ll notice that they have all the same features with minimal differences in specifications.

This is because expensive vacuum cleaners usually cost as much due to the brand name. In other words, you can get equally as an efficient vacuum with the same suction power, but under $200.

Your Cleaning Needs

If all you need is a vacuum to maintain your floors, there’s no need to invest in an expensive machine. High-end vacuums often have innovative technologies, Wi-Fi connectivity, and other such things you might not need. Surely, some tech stuff is nice to have, but it’s not as necessary.

Think about your cleaning needs and try to be as realistic as possible. If you just need one to clean dirt and debris from your floor, you don’t have to pay thousands. The market is packed with efficient and versatile vacuums that cost far less.

Filtration Quality

Vacuums with HEPA filters are usually more expensive than those with any other filtration system. However, even those under $200 come with a HEPA, so there’s often no need to invest any more money.

The same goes for other types of filtration as well. Affordable models often have the same kind of filtration as do more expensive ones. One thing you want to be careful with is filter maintenance since that might differ in some cases.

Quality of Design

The build quality tends to have very little with the price tag of a vacuum cleaner. In other words, some of the most expensive machines aren’t as well-designed as you’d hope.

It depends on what the vacuum is made of and whether or not it’s quality material. Most affordable models are sturdy and can handle rougher use.

Necessary Functions

As we mentioned, some features that you pay for in more expensive vacuums aren’t really of much use. Some of these features are gimmicky and don’t serve any real purpose.

Essentially, all you need is a vacuum cleaner to clean the dirt and debris from your floor. It should have an efficient filter to keep all that dirt trapped and a few extra features like height adjustment and auto rewind feature for the power cord.

Vacuums under $200 are often easy to use and come with only what you need. For the price, you’ll get a few useful features, some basic tools, and lots of suction power.

Cheaper Maintenance

Regardless of how well you look after your vacuum cleaner, it will eventually require maintenance. And in most cases, expensive cleaners are also expensive to fix whatever the issue may be. Filters are pricier to replace, and everything just costs more.

On the other hand, vacuums under $200 have pretty basic parts that are easy to obtain and don’t cost as much. Because you can never tell how much maintenance your vacuum cleaner will require, it’s better to go for what’s easier and more affordable to maintain.

You’re Not Limited

Buying a budget vacuum allows you to buy more than just one. Imagine having two or even three vacuums for the price of one, more high-end vacuum.

This is ideal if you live in a large house since you can keep one cleaner on each floor. For example, for the price of an expensive vacuum, you can buy a more affordable upright as well as a handheld for spot-cleaning.

Their lower price allows you to have more models that might differ in features and accessories. This gives you the versatility you can hardly achieve with just one vacuum cleaner.

Conclusion

Finding the best vacuum under $200 isn’t as difficult because the market has plenty of different models to offer. It’s a matter of knowing your needs and preferences so that you can opt for the one that matches them the most.

You should think about whether you have carpets or bare floors since flooring is one of the most critical things to consider. Also, maneuvering a lightweight vacuum is much easier than trying to work a heavy one.

Think about if you need edge brushes and an upholstery tool. Don’t forget to consider the size of its dust cup as well, especially if you live in a large house.

Besides the price tags, these are all important factors, so go back to our buyer’s guide as many times as you need. Keep these factors in mind when reading the reviews if you haven’t already picked yourself a vacuum cleaner.

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I’ve been a dedicated writer for Clean That Floor for approximately 3 years. I’ve written about various topics, mostly focusing on cleaning products, vacuum cleaners, mops, and simple cleaning solutions for homeowners. I enjoy testing tips and tricks on house maintenance, reviewing both the process and results.

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