Corded Vs Cordless Vacuums: Which Should You Buy?

Vacuum cleaners have come a long way from the bulky, difficult-to-maneuver machines of the past.

Today, the market offers a wide range of vacuums designed to suit different needs, lifestyles, and cleaning preferences.

One of the most significant decisions you’ll face when buying a vacuum is whether to go cordless or stick with a traditional corded model. 

Each type has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best choice depends on your specific requirements.

So let's jump into this guide all about corded vs cordless vacuums.

Disclaimer: Simplify may receive a small affiliate commission from purchases made via links in this article but at no cost to you.

Cordless vacuums: convenience and flexibility

Pros:

• Portability: Cordless vacuums are incredibly easy to maneuver. Without a cord to tether you to a power outlet, you can easily move from room to room, tackle stairs, and even clean your car.
• Lightweight design: Typically, cordless vacuums are lighter than their corded counterparts, making them easier to carry and store.
• Ease of use: Cordless vacuums are simple to use. Most models are designed for quick grab-and-go cleaning, perfect for spot cleaning and daily maintenance.

Cons:

• Limited battery life: One of the main drawbacks of cordless vacuums is battery life. Most models offer between 15 and 60 minutes of runtime before they need to be recharged. This can be limiting for large homes or deep cleaning sessions.
• Suction power: Cordless vacuums usually have less suction power compared to corded models, which can make them less effective on thick carpets or for picking up heavy debris.
• Smaller dustbins: The compact design often means smaller dustbins, requiring more frequent emptying.

Recommended Cordless Vacuum

Dyson is a leading name in the vacuum industry, known for its powerful suction and innovative technology.

The V11 Torque Drive offers excellent battery life (up to 60 minutes on Eco mode), advanced whole-machine filtration, and an LCD screen that displays run time and performance.

Its versatile design makes it suitable for both hard floors and carpets, and the lightweight form factor ensures easy handling.

Corded vacuums: power and consistency

Pros:

• Unlimited runtime: Corded vacuums are plugged directly into the wall, giving you unlimited cleaning time without worrying about recharging batteries.
• Stronger suction power: Generally, corded vacuums offer stronger suction compared to cordless models. This makes them ideal for deep cleaning, especially on carpets.
• Larger dustbins: Corded vacuums usually have larger dustbins, meaning you can clean for longer without needing to empty the container.

Cons:

• Limited mobility: The cord can be restrictive, requiring you to switch outlets as you move through your home. This can be cumbersome, especially in large spaces.
• Heavier and bulkier: Corded vacuums tend to be heavier and bulkier, making them harder to carry up and down stairs or store in tight spaces.
• Less convenient: While powerful, corded vacuums are generally less convenient for quick clean-ups, making them better suited for thorough cleaning sessions.

Recommended corded vacuum

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Vacuum combines strong suction power with the versatility of a lift-away canister, allowing you to clean stairs and hard-to-reach areas with ease.

It’s equipped with Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology and a HEPA filter, which traps dust and allergens, making it an excellent choice for homes with allergy sufferers.

The large dustbin and powerful suction make it ideal for deep cleaning carpets and hard floors alike.

Corded vs cordless vacuums: which vacuum is right for you?

Choosing between a cordless and corded vacuum depends largely on your cleaning needs, home size, and lifestyle:

• If you live in a small to medium-sized home or apartment: A cordless vacuum like the Dyson V11 Torque Drive might be your best bet. It’s perfect for quick, everyday cleaning, and the convenience of cordless operation can’t be beaten.

• If you have a larger home, heavy carpets, or require deep cleaning: A corded vacuum like the Shark Navigator Lift-Away will provide the power and consistency you need. Its strong suction and larger capacity make it ideal for more demanding cleaning tasks.

In the end, both types of vacuums have their place in modern households. If your budget allows, owning both a cordless and a corded vacuum could offer the best of both worlds — quick clean-ups with the cordless, and thorough, deep cleaning with the corded.

Whether you prioritize convenience or power, there’s a vacuum out there to meet your needs. Happy cleaning!

Next, check out this pre-prepared Weekly Cleaning Schedule for Busy People.