Corded vs Cordless: Which Vacuum Cleaner Is Right for You?

When it comes to keeping your home immaculate, the vacuum cleaner is an indispensable tool. But with the market awash in both corded and cordless options, how do you decide which is the right fit for your home? In this blog post, we'll delve into the pros and cons of each type and offer our top recommendations in 2023.

The Rise of Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaners

Cordless stick vacuum cleaners are increasingly popular, thanks to their slimline, portable design. They are particularly convenient for quick clean-ups and are not restricted by cord length or proximity to power sockets. However, they do have limitations, such as smaller dust capacity and shorter battery life, which may not make them suitable for all homes.

Pros of Cordless Vacuum Cleaners

• Lightweight: Averaging around 3kg, they are significantly lighter than their corded counterparts, which weigh around 7kg.
• Accessibility: Many come with wall mounts for easy storage and quick access.
• Versatility: Most models come with accessories for tackling smaller cleaning jobs like car interiors or stairs.

Cons of Cordless Vacuum Cleaners

• Limited Battery Life: Most last between 20-45 minutes, although premium models may offer longer runtimes.
• Smaller Dust Capacity: Around 0.7 litres compared to 2.3 litres for a corded vacuum.
• More Frequent Maintenance: Filters and dust bins need to be emptied more often.

The Enduring Appeal of Corded Vacuum Cleaners

Corded vacuum cleaners have been the traditional choice for many households. They offer powerful suction and larger dust capacity, making them ideal for more extensive cleaning tasks.

Pros of Corded Vacuum Cleaners

• Powerful Suction: On average, they pick up about 70% of dust from carpets compared to 41% for cordless models.
• Larger Dust Capacity: Ideal for homes with larger floor areas.
• Reliability: Generally have a better reliability record.

Cons of Corded Vacuum Cleaners

• Less Convenient: Restricted by cord length and proximity to power sockets.
• Heavier: Weighing around 7kg, they can be cumbersome to manoeuvre.
• Storage: Typically require more storage space.

Our Top Recommendations

Best Value Stick Model: Shark IZ202UK

This model offers a great balance between performance and price. With a reasonable 40 minute battery life and versatile cleaning options, it's an excellent choice for smaller homes or flats.

Best Performing Stick Model: Miele HX2POWERLINE

If you're looking for top-notch performance, the Miele HX2POWERLINE is hard to beat. It offers superior suction and an impressive 60 minute battery life, albeit at a premium price.

Best Value Corded Model: Miele C1FLEX

For those who prefer the reliability and power of a corded vacuum, the Miele C1FLEX offers excellent value. Though basic, it carries the Miele brand so you're pretty much guaranteed to enjoy many years of top performance.

Best Performing Corded Model: Miele CX1COMFORT

If performance is your top priority, the Miele CX1COMFORT offers unparalleled suction power and reliability. It's an investment, but one that will stand the test of time.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the choice between a corded and cordless vacuum cleaner hinges on your individual requirements. For larger households, corded models remain a reliable option, offering robust cleaning power without the concern of battery life. On the other hand, if you live in a flat, a cordless vacuum is a convenient choice, providing easy storage and the flexibility to go out and clean your car. Regardless of your choice, quality and performance should be your guiding factors.