For quick, frequent cleaning in a flat where storage space matters, start by comparing stick vacuums for manoeuvrability, performance on your floors and the battery life you can expect in the mode you’ll actually use. If you prefer to clean without stopping to recharge, or your floors need particular attention, consider a compact cylinder vacuum too. If you’re looking at a stick vacuum with a removable battery, check the compatible battery’s model number and availability.
If you regularly vacuum a few areas, a stick vacuum may be easier to get out and put away. However, compare its performance on your floors rather than assuming it will suit every surface. Que Choisir’s testing protocol assesses factors including suction and battery life.
If your flat has rugs or you expect to do longer cleaning sessions, look for test results that match your surfaces and consider a compact cylinder vacuum too. Que Choisir recommends assessing performance and maintenance requirements according to the type of vacuum cleaner.
If you want to be able to replace the battery or use a spare, note down the vacuum cleaner’s exact model number and check that a compatible battery is available. The DGCCRF points out that spare-parts obligations do not apply in the same way to every product.
Consider it if: you want to get the vacuum out and put it away quickly to clean a few areas.
Bear in mind: battery life depends on the mode you use, and the vacuum and its charging dock may need a dedicated space.
Consider it if: you’re happy to use a cable and hose to avoid having to recharge while you clean.
Bear in mind: the body, cable and hose can make it trickier to move around and store.
Consider it if: you want the option of replacing the battery or using a spare while keeping the convenience of a stick vacuum.
Bear in mind: a removable battery doesn’t guarantee that a compatible model will be available, so check before you buy.
| Criteria | What to check | Who should pay most attention? |
|---|---|---|
| Manoeuvrability and storage | Weight with all parts fitted, the dimensions of the charging dock and the space needed to store the vacuum. | If I want to get the vacuum out to clean a few areas and put it away without cluttering my flat, this comes first; around 31% of consumers prioritise manoeuvrability and storage. |
| Performance on floors | Test results on hard floors, rugs and crevices; brushes included with the exact model. | If I have rugs or floors that trap dust, I check results for my surfaces before choosing; around 25% of consumers prioritise cleaning their floors. |
| Battery life in the mode you use | The conditions behind the stated battery life, test results for different modes and the model number of any additional battery. | If I want to finish cleaning without stopping, I compare battery life using the setting and brush I’ll be using; around 19% of consumers put battery life first. |
| Noise | Measurements in the mode you’re considering and the cleaning performance achieved with that setting. | If I vacuum often and find the noise bothersome, I look for a balance between noise levels and cleaning performance; around 13% of consumers make noise their priority. |
| Maintenance and spare parts | Dust container capacity and emptying, required filters or bags, and the model number of a compatible battery. | If I want to plan ahead for emptying and replacements over time, I check which parts are specific to the model I’ve chosen; around 12% of consumers prioritise maintenance and spare parts. |
The conditions used for the advertised figure may differ from a session with a motorised brush or a powerful setting. For the Bosch BBS711W, Bosch says the stated 40 minutes applies without an electrically powered accessory.
Compare the conditions behind the advertised figure with tests carried out using the mode and brush you’ll need. Don’t apply an average for a whole category to a specific model.
Depending on the battery life you get in your usual mode, you may need to pause to recharge or use a second compatible battery.
These figures aren’t enough to tell you how a vacuum will perform on every type of floor. The brush used and the results on the surfaces that matter to you are important too.
Look for tests on your floors and check which brushes are included with the exact model.
The battery model number, compatibility and availability can vary from one vacuum to another. The words ‘removable battery’ alone don’t confirm that a particular battery will fit.
Note down the exact model numbers of the vacuum and battery, then check their compatibility and availability with the manufacturer.
The Unlimited range includes stick vacuums with interchangeable batteries; the BBS711W is an example of a cordless model with a flexible tube.
Depending on the model, X-Force Flex stick vacuums feature a flexible tube and replacement batteries. The 12.60 Kit Animal is an example of a model designed in particular for pet hair.
The Boost CX1 PowerLine is an example of a compact, corded cylinder vacuum to consider if you want to avoid having to recharge.
The V8 Advanced is a cordless stick vacuum to consider for quick clean-ups. Check the exact variant and the brush supplied.
This selection includes cordless stick vacuums, including models with removable batteries, as well as a compact cylinder vacuum. Compare them based on your space and cleaning habits.
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Worth considering if you’re looking for a cordless stick vacuum with a removable battery and wall-mounted charging dock.
The product name lists 650 W, 60 kPa and up to 70 minutes’ battery life.
The description mentions a 0,9 l dust container and a mode that lets you stand the vacuum upright while cleaning.
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Worth considering if you want a stick vacuum that stands upright on its own, without a wall mount.
The product name lists 55 kPa and up to 60 minutes. The description mentions three modes, a 1,5 l dust container, a removable battery and a flexible tube.
The dust container is described as having a one-touch emptying system.
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Worth considering if you want a stick vacuum with a removable battery and need to clean under furniture.
The product name lists 60 000 Pa and up to 65 minutes’ battery life.
The description mentions a 700 ml dust container, several modes, a removable battery and a flat position for cleaning under furniture.
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Worth considering if you want a stick vacuum that converts into a handheld model and has a large-capacity dust container.
The product name lists 500 W, 50 kPa and up to 60 minutes’ battery life. The description notes that battery life varies depending on the mode selected.
The description mentions three speeds, a 1,5 l dust container and a built-in battery that can’t be replaced by the user.
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Worth considering if you’re happy to use a cable and hose for cleaning sessions without having to recharge.
The product name lists 850 W. The description mentions a 4 l bag, a 9,5 m operating radius and variable power settings.
A compact storage system for the vacuum’s components is described, but remember to allow for the cable and hose when moving and storing it.
Compare the conditions behind the advertised figure with tests carried out using the mode and brush you’ll need. Bosch says the stated 40 minutes for the BBS711W applies without an electrically powered accessory, so it doesn’t represent a cleaning session using the brush.
It depends on the model and the space available. The BBS711W comes with a wall-mounted charging dock, so check whether you can install it before choosing this model. For maintenance, follow the instructions for the specific model when cleaning the dust container, brushes and filters.
Check which consumables and spare parts are compatible with the exact model. A bagged cylinder vacuum needs bags; if you’re buying a stick vacuum with a removable battery, confirm that a compatible battery is available before you buy.
According to the DGCCRF, the statutory guarantee of conformity covers faults that meet its conditions, and claims are subject to a two-year limitation period from the date the goods are delivered, whether new or second-hand. This guarantee is separate from any optional commercial guarantee. Check the seller’s identity and keep your order details.
ADEME says vacuum cleaners can be taken to an electrical equipment collection point, including at a shop or a recycling centre. If a small battery can be easily removed, ADEME recommends taking it separately to a dedicated collection point rather than putting it in household rubbish.