Which Is The Best Handheld Vacuum, Australia? [2021 Guide]

Finding the best handheld vacuum Australia offers could make your cleaning routine much quicker and easier! They’re great for the car, stairs and all those little nooks and crannys that it’s hard to get in to!

So, what is the best handheld vacuum cleaner, Australia? There are so many options you might be finding it a little overwhelming! Well this article and my handheld vacuum reviews are designed to make that choice easier.

First I have a quick comparison chart then some detailed reviews of some of the best cordless handheld vacuums. Finally, I’ll talk about everything you need to consider when buying a handheld unit.

So take a quick read and find yourself the best portable vacuum cleaner today!

“This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link.”

Our Pick for the Best Handheld Vacuum, Australia: Dyson V7 Trigger

Our pick for the best handheld vacuum, Australia, is the Dyson V7 Trigger. It has the shortest charge time per run time (up to 30 min!) and has a large bin that is super simple to empty. It is also light enough to handle with one hand without making your arm too tired.

Comparison Chart

Here’s a quick comparison of all the top handheld vacuums we review below.

ProductCharge TimeRun TimeWeightDimensionsRatingPrice
Dyson V7 Trigger
3.5 hrs30 min1.51 kgL: 31.6 x
H: 20.5 x
W: 13.1cm
4.8/5Check
Price!
Dirt Devil
Dirt Devil Quick Flip Plus Cordless 16 Volt Lithium Ion Bagless Handheld Vacuum BD30025B
6 hrs13 min 0.99 kgD: 37.3 x
H: 15.2cm
4.8/5Check
Price!
DustBuster Flexi
BLACK+DECKER PD1820L-XE 18V Lithium-ion Dustbuster Flexi Hand Vac
4 hrs10 min1.38 kg4.5/5Check
Price!
Shark ION
2.5 hrs10 min0.64 kgW: 9.5cm
D: 22cm
H: 38.5cm
4.6/5Check
Price!
Kambrook Captiv
5 hrs1.3 kg 45.5 x
12.3 x
11.5 cm
4/5Check
Price!
Lanuer
Car Vacuum Cleaner,Wet-Dry Portable Vacuums Cleaner, 5KPA USB Charging Handheld Vacuum Cleaner for Home and Car Vehicle Home Cleaning Dust Debris Grit Pet Hair (Red)
3.5 hrs15-30
minutes
0.6 kgL: 36cm x
W: 31cm x
H: 30cm
4/5Check
Price!
Black & Decker
BLACK+DECKER WDA315J-XE 16.2 Wh Gen 9.5 Wet and Dry Dust Buster Hand Vacuum
13 hrs10 min1 kg3.8/5Check
Price!
Black & Decker Pivot
BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-XE Lithium Pivot Dustbuster
4 hrs10 min38 kg45.7 x
17.5 x
17.1 cm
4.6/5Check
Price!
Black & Decker Cyclone
5 hrs15 min0.9 kg43.5 x
17.2 x
13.2 cm
4.6/5Check
Price!

Why is a Handheld Vacuum Useful?

Handheld vacuums are super useful for a number of reasons. The best handheld vacuums for stairs and pet hair work amazing for cleaning up dust bunnies tucked away in small nooks and crannies. The best car vacuum cleaners are light, easy to hold, have a long battery life, and are easy to empty. A handheld vacuum is useful because they are able to reach spaces you wouldn’t be able to fit or maneuver a traditional cord vacuum. 

Features of the Best Handheld Vacuum Cleaner, Australia

Here are some features to think about when asking “what is the best handheld vacuum cleaner?” 

Cords & Batteries

The best handheld vacuums are cordless, which is why we’ve only reviewed cordless options. That’s because they give you loads of freedom to carry the vacuum wherever you need it and not be limited by an outlet location or cord length. 

When looking for a cordless vacuum, battery life is a very important factor to review. What’s the point of buying a cordless vacuum when you can only run it for 5 min at a time before it needs to be charged again? A strong battery (like lithium ion) will also provide more suction, which is crucial, and hold a charge longer. 

Weight

It’s important for handheld cordless vacuums to be light. A few extra ounces may not seem like much, but your arm is going to be so tired holding a heavy vacuum for more than a few minutes at a time. 

an image of the best handheld vacuum cleaning a sofa

Capacity

Don’t forget to look at the capacity of any handheld cordless vacuum you are considering buying. A large bin will save you trips to the trashcan and save you time. You also don’t want too large of a bin because that will add to the weight of the cordless vacuum and make your arm more tired. 

Tools & Attachments

Tools and attachments can make the difference between a hassle free clean up or a frustrating one where you can’t quite reach that elusive dust bunny hiding in a cranny. Long hose attachments, attachments for cleaning up pet hair, etc. can be very helpful. 

Other Features

  • Durability – a more expensive price tag often reflects how durable a handheld vacuum will be, simply because stronger plastic or aluminium costs more to produce. Trust me, you won’t be sorry for buying a more durable vacuum! You only want to buy one once. 
  • Style – you might not think this is important but a nice looking vacuum will make you feel better as you clean! The best handheld cordless vacuums combine style and function.
  • Filter – A type of filter doesn’t affect the sucking power of a cordless vacuum but are important for people who suffer from allergies or asthma. If you want to really filter out nasty particles like pollen, dust, and mites, look for vacuums with a HEPA filter (high efficiency particulate air).

Handheld Vacuum Reviews

Take a look at our handheld vacuum cleaner reviews and choose which one is the best for you personally. 

Dyson V7 Trigger

Specifications

  • Charge time: 3.5 hrs
  • Run time: 30 min
  • Weight: 1.51 kg
  • Dimensions (L x H x W): 31.6 x 20.5 x 13.1cm

The best dyson handheld vacuum is the Dyson V7 Trigger. It only weighs 1.5 kg and comes with a crevice tool to get those tough little corners with ease. The bin capacity is  good at 0.54 litres- enough capacity to handle the up to 30 minutes of run time. I love that the bin is super easy to empty, all you have to do is pull a lever to release the dirt into the garbage. 

The Dyson V7 Trigger is powered by the dyson V7 digital motor, which is powerful enough to handle both carpets and hardwood. It also has two power modes – max (for 7 minutes of high power) and powerful for longer lasting suction. The filter sucks out allergens and releases cleaner air as it works. 

What we like

  • Very versatile and doesn’t require too much space
  • Easy to use and great suction
  • Great for quick clean-up jobs

What we don’t like

  • It takes awhile to charge and the waste bin is a bit small

Dirt Devil Quick Flip Plus

Dirt Devil Quick Flip Plus Cordless 16 Volt Lithium Ion Bagless Handheld Vacuum BD30025B

Low cost, a quick solution for crumbs etc on tiles and carpet. A great little Vac for cleaning up after two young kids daily. – Kylie

Specifications

  • Charge time: 6 hrs
  • Run time: 13 min 
  • Weight: 0.99 kg
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 36.8 x 10.2 x 15.2 cm

The Dirt Devil Quick Flip Plus is unique because the Quip Flip crevice tool is attached to the vacuum – making it super easy to reach corners and not have to stop and reach for a separate tool. There is also a separate turbo powered tool you can attach to clean stairs and upholstery (perfect for pet hair!).

The Dirt Devil Quick Flip Plus is designed with ergonomics in mind so that it fits into your hand easily and so that your hand doesn’t strain holding it. It’s also very lightweight at just under 1 kg and has a 16V lithium ion battery with a 13 min run time.  The bin is a 0.5L cup that’s simple to empty. 

What we like

  • It has great suction
  • Clear view of the bin so you know when to empty it
  • Powerful vacuum at an affordable price

What we don’t like

  • It is hard to clean the brush attachment especially, if you’re dealing with pet hair

Click here to check price on Amazon 

Black & Decker DustBuster Flexi

BLACK+DECKER PD1820L-XE 18V Lithium-ion Dustbuster Flexi Hand Vac

Good suction, last a reasonable time, does all of the jobs I want it to. Easy to empty and useful tools and holder. – Steve

Specifications

  • Charge time: 4 hrs
  • Run time: up to 20-30 mins
  • Weight: 1.47 kg
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 30 x 27.5 x 16.5 cm

The Black & Decker DustBuster Flexi has a unique design that reminds me of a snail shell.That’s because it has a 1.5M flexible hose that fits inside the unique curved unit – one of the longest hoses on the cordless vacuum market. There is also a flip out upholstery brush for dust removal on surfaces such as lamp shades or curtains, and a crevice tool. 

 The Black & Decker DustBuster Flexi has an 18V lithium ion battery that charges in under 4 hours. It is designed to be held in one hand and the other hand holds the hose, which doesn’t make it completely hands free but it is still easy to carry and a worthwhile tradeoff for such a long hose. The bin is 0.44 L and empties with an easy to open side door. 

What we like

  • The flexible hose is very convenient
  • Charging is so simple
  • Lightweight and easy to use

What we don’t like

  • It is very, very noisy. You might need earplugs or headphones to use this one!

Click here to check price on Amazon

Shark ION Cord Free

The SHARK not only looks great and because of its size, it is easy to store. But, more important, it performs effortlessly, its mighty suction picking up just about anything its way. I was so happy with the product that I bought another one for my garage! – Ivan

Specifications

  • Charge time: 2.5 hrs
  • Run time: 10 min
  • Weight: 0.64 kg
  • Dimensions (W x D x H): 9.5cm x 22 x 38.5 cm

The Shark ION Cord Free vacuum has a very minimal design that is streamlined and modern. It has a swivel steering head and LED headlights so you can see in those dark cracks, along with fingertip controls to switch between hard and soft floors. There is also an anti-allergen seal so no particles escape during the cleaning process.

The Shark ION Cord Free vacuum comes with a 2-1 crevice tool, pet power brush and upholstery tool, so you’ll have all the accessories you’ll need to clean up a variety of messes. The 0.25 L dust bin empties with a touch of a button, which is on the smaller side, but the whole unit weighs only 0.64 kg so it’s a very lightweight and maneuverable vacuum. 

What we like

  • Comes with a handy cradle with attachment storage and a recharge station
  • It is very lightweight and powerful
  • It looks great and so versatile!

What we don’t like

  • None! Love this powerful machine!

Click here to check price on Catch.com.au

Kambrook Captiv

Specifications

  • Charge time: 5 hrs
  • Weight: 1.3 kg 
  • Dimensions (L x W x H): 11.5 x 12.3 x 45.5 cm

The Kambrook Captiv cordless vacuum is small and efficient. It features two power settings and is easy to hold thanks to its ergonomic design. The dust bin is simple to empty and the unit comes with a crevice tool and brush accessories. It’s a good value for the price.

What we like

  • Love the mounting/charging station
  • Very lightweight and comes with handy attachments
  • Easy to use and easy to empty 

What we don’t like

  • Requires a lot of emptying the bin. It is tiny but it is loud!

Click here to check price on Amazon

Click here to check price on Catch.com.au

Lanuer Wet Dry

Car Vacuum Cleaner,Wet-Dry Portable Vacuums Cleaner, 5KPA USB Charging Handheld Vacuum Cleaner for Home and Car Vehicle Home Cleaning Dust Debris Grit Pet Hair (Red)

Specifications

  • Charge time: 3.5 hrs
  • Run time: 15-30 minutes
  • Weight: 0.6 kg
  • Dimensions: (L x W x H): 2.77 x 0.72 x 0.72 metres

The Lanuer Wet Dry cordless vacuum is unique in its style: it looks like a  tube and charges via USB, meaning you could charge it in the car if you wanted to. It has an ergonomically designed handle and an extension soft hose so you’ll be able to reach further. The Lanuer Wet Dry also comes with a crevice nozzle tool and a dust brush tool. 

This vacuum has a relatively short charge time (3.5 hrs) considering its run time that varies between 15-30 minutes. It has a HEPA filter for optimal allergen removal and is very light weighing only 0.6 kg.

What we like

  • Very portable
  • Has a good suction
  • Has two colours to choose from

What we don’t like

  • Some quality issues

Click here to check price on Amazon

Black & Decker Wet & Dry

BLACK+DECKER WDA315J-XE 16.2 Wh Gen 9.5 Wet and Dry Dust Buster Hand Vacuum

Specifications

  • Charge time: 13 hrs
  • Run time: 10 min
  • Weight: 1.35 kg
  • Dimensions: (L x W x H): 35 x 14.5 x 19 cm

The Black & Decker Wet & Dry not only has the ability to clean up dry debris like dirt and crumbs, but up to 250 ml of wet messes as well thanks to the wide mouth design. This makes it a great tool for the bathroom or wet spills in the kitchen. The nozzle is wide but also has a built in slim line nozzle so you don’t need additional accessories to get access to small spaces.

The Black & Decker Wet & Dry is light at 1 kg and has a run time of 10 minutes. The dust bowl has a large capacity of 0.5 L and is see through so it’s easy to tell when it needs to be emptied. Overall it is a convenient tool for a wide variety of messes. 

What we like

  • Affordable and does its job
  • Works well with carpets
  • Lightweight and portable

What we don’t like

  • Not that strong suction

Click here to check price on Amazon

Black & Decker Pivot

BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-XE Lithium Pivot Dustbuster

As looking for something compact rather than taking out the vacuum cleaner. For a quick clean in tight spots, this is perfect. It has a great suction and easy to use.  – Mortishia

  • Charge time: 4 hrs
  • Run time: 10 min 
  • Weight: 1.38 kg
  • Dimensions: (L x W x H): 29 x 18 x 16 cm 

The pivoting head of the Black & Decker Pivot can swivel up to 200 degrees, making it a breeze to reach those awkward angles and reach those ever elusive crumbs between sofa cushions and car seats. It has a flip out soft brush which is perfect for delicate surfaces like lampshades or keyboards. What’s even better is that the Black & Decker Pivot can fold in half for storage and charging. 

The dust bowl is 0.44 L and translucent so you can easily tell when it’s full and empty it using a side door. It can run for up to 10 minutes and takes 4 hours to charge. 

What we like

  • Pivoting nozzle is fantastic
  • Powerful and high quality vacuum
  • Love that you can fold it and put it on a charging station

What we don’t like

  • It is super noisy

Click here to check price on Amazon

Click here to check price on Catch.com.au

Black & Decker Cyclone

Lightweight and strong suction, great to clean up my dog’s hair on the floorboards! Don’t know why I didn’t get one earlier, I cant wait to use it in the car! – Richard

Specifications

  • Charge time: 5 hrs
  • Run time: 15 min
  • Weight: 0.9 kg
  • Dimensions: (L x W x H): 43.5 x 17.2 x 13.2 cm

The Black & Decker Cyclone features cyclone suction technology that spins debris away from the filter, allowing the suction to work without interference. It also features Intelligent Boost technology that automatically increases suction for those tough jobs. Another unique thing about the Black & Decker Cyclone is the scented pre-filter (a cotton fresh scent) that freshens your home as you clean. 

This vacuum has a wide mouth and long nozzle allowing for a long reach and optimal suction power. There is also a flip out brush tool for more delicate surfaces. It has a 0.5L translucent dustbowl that is hassle free to empty. 

What we like

  • Very light and easy on the arms
  • Fantastic suction power
  • It charges quickly

What we don’t like

  • None! Great vac!

FAQs

Are Dysons the best handheld vacuum?

Dysons have a great reputation as durable and efficient vacuums, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t other great brands out there too! Dysons tend to be more expensive so if they don’t fit your price range you have lots of other great options to choose from. 

Do I need a handheld AND a full size vacuum?

Yes. A handheld vacuum is great for small messes and to get to areas a full size vacuum can’t reach, but it is no replacement for a full size vacuum (especially if you have rugs and carpets). 

Do I need a handheld if I already have a full size vacuum?

You don’t necessarily NEED a handheld, but they make life so much easier! You only have to drag your vacuum outside once to clean your car and go through the hassle of finding an outlet, extension cord, and testing the limits of the expandable hose before realising that handheld vacuums are the perfect complement to their larger full size vacuum companions. 

Look at some great cordless stick vacuums next or fill all your cleaning gear needs here.

Sophie is a cook and food enthusiast who has owned and run a cafe in her remote community since 2017. She wants to show that, no matter how busy you are, there is a way to make cooking and family life simpler and more enjoyable.