Let’s face it, keeping your home spick and span doesn’t have to break the bank. You might think finding a capable vacuum cleaner for under $100 is a pipe dream, but trust us, it’s absolutely possible! Modern technology has brought some surprisingly powerful and efficient options into this budget-friendly category. Whether you’re dealing with pet hair, crumbs on hard floors, or everyday dust bunnies on carpets, there’s a budget vacuum out there ready to tackle the mess.
In this guide, we’re diving deep to help you discover the best vacuum cleaner for under $100. We’ve scoured the market to bring you seven top contenders that offer fantastic value without compromising on cleaning performance. Get ready to find your next cleaning companion!
What to Look For in an Affordable Vacuum Cleaner
Even on a budget, you don’t want to just grab the first cheap vacuum you see. Keep these key features in mind:
- Suction Power: This is paramount. Look for models that can effectively pick up dirt and debris from various surfaces.
- Versatility: Can it handle both hard floors and carpets? Does it come with attachments for upholstery or tight corners?
- Weight & Maneuverability: A lightweight design makes cleaning less of a chore, especially if you have stairs. Swivel steering is a huge bonus!
- Dust Cup Capacity: A larger dust cup means less frequent emptying, saving you time and hassle.
- Maintenance: Washable filters are a big plus, reducing ongoing costs. Bagless designs are usually more convenient for budget vacuums.
Our Top Picks for the Best Vacuum Cleaner Under $100
Here are our hand-picked selections, each offering excellent performance for their price point.
Eureka NEU10AE5 Powerful Bagless Upright Vacuum Cleaner
Looking for a workhorse that won’t strain your back or your wallet? The Eureka NEU10AE5 is a fantastic contender for the best vacuum cleaner for under $100, offering surprising power in a feather-light package. This upright vacuum is designed to make quick work of dirt and pet hair on both hard floors and carpets, proving that budget-friendly doesn’t mean weak. Its wide cleaning path means you’ll cover more ground in less time, making your cleaning routine a breeze.
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Key Features:
- Powerful all-floor suction for hard floors and carpets.
- 10.5” wide cleaning path for quick clean-ups.
- Quick-release handle for easy above-floor cleaning with included crevice tool and dusting brush.
- Lightweight at only 7.7 pounds for easy portability and storage.
- Washable filter for easy, eco-friendly maintenance.
- Onboard tools (crevice tool, dusting brush) for convenience.
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Pros:
- Excellent suction power for its size and price.
- Extremely lightweight and easy to maneuver.
- Versatile with effective above-floor cleaning capabilities.
- Low maintenance thanks to washable filter.
- Compact design for easy storage.
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Cons:
- Bagless design might require more frequent emptying on heavily soiled areas.
- Not designed for very deep pile carpets.
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User Impressions: Customers often praise its powerful suction and incredibly lightweight design, making it a go-to for quick daily clean-ups and smaller homes. Many appreciate how easily it transitions between different floor types.
See it on Amazon Here
Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner
The Eureka PowerSpeed takes the classic upright design and supercharges it with upgraded cyclone technology, making it a formidable opponent against dirt, dust, and even microscopic particles. This isn’t just a basic vacuum; it’s engineered to penetrate deep into carpets, ensuring that embedded grime doesn’t stand a chance. Its thoughtful design, including multiple height settings and on-board accessories, truly positions it as a strong contender for the best vacuum cleaner for under $100 for those needing powerful, versatile cleaning.
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Key Features:
- Upgraded Cyclone System handles various debris sizes efficiently.
- Powerful pick-up penetrates deep into carpets.
- Lightweight design makes cleaning less strenuous.
- 5 height settings for optimal cleaning on carpets, shag rugs, and hard floors.
- Multiple accessories included: quick-release handle, 7-inch crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery tool.
- Traps 99.9% of dust, dander, and allergens.
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Pros:
- Exceptional suction for an upright in this price range.
- Great for pet owners due to deep carpet cleaning and allergen trapping.
- Adjustable height settings make it suitable for all floor types.
- All tools conveniently stored onboard.
- Improved cyclone system for better filtration.
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Cons:
- Requires regular roller brush and belt cleaning to prevent clogging.
- Can be a bit louder than some other options.
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User Impressions: Many users are impressed by its robust suction and ability to refresh carpets, especially those with pets. The versatility of the height settings and included tools also gets high marks, despite the occasional need for roller maintenance.
See it on Amazon Here
Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner, Powerful Suction 3-in-1
The Eureka Blaze is a game-changer for those seeking flexibility and efficiency in a compact package. This 3-in-1 stick vacuum can easily transform from an upright stick to a handheld unit, making it incredibly versatile for all sorts of cleaning tasks. Weighing just 4 pounds, it’s remarkably easy to whip around the house, while its signature swivel steering and unique “capture nozzle” make cleaning a less frustrating experience. It’s perfect for apartments or quick daily touch-ups, embodying what many look for in an affordable vacuum.
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Key Features:
- 3-in-1 design (stick, handheld, with crevice tool) for versatile cleaning.
- Ultra-lightweight at only 4 pounds.
- Eureka’s signature swivel steering for improved maneuverability.
- Capture nozzle picks up larger debris effortlessly.
- Powerful 2 amp motor for effective dust and pollen pick-up.
- Washable filtration system captures debris and improves air quality.
- 18′ power cord and X-Large dust cup reduce interruptions.
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Pros:
- Incredibly lightweight and easy to convert.
- Excellent maneuverability with swivel steering.
- Great for quick clean-ups and smaller living spaces.
- Effective on multi-surfaces for surface dirt.
- Large dust cup and long cord for extended cleaning.
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Cons:
- Not designed for deep carpet cleaning, more for surface dirt.
- Corded design means you’ll still need an outlet.
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User Impressions: Users absolutely love its lightweight design and easy handling. It’s frequently praised for being perfect for hardwood floors and quick apartment cleanings, especially its ability to grab larger debris that other stick vacuums might push around.
See it on Amazon Here
Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor
Sometimes, you just need a straightforward, effective vacuum without all the bells and whistles, and that’s exactly what the Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum delivers. This no-nonsense upright is designed for easy maneuverability and efficient clean-up across various floor types. At only 8.4 lbs, it’s light enough for everyday use, and its generous dust cup means you won’t be running to the trash can every five minutes. It’s a solid, reliable choice for anyone looking for an everyday best vacuum cleaner for under $100.
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Key Features:
- Easy maneuverability at only 8.4 lbs with a 25-ft power cord.
- Versatile cleaning with included upholstery and crevice tools.
- Detachable handle for targeted cleaning.
- Large 1.7L dust cup for extended cleaning sessions.
- Washable filter for easy, long-lasting maintenance.
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Pros:
- Very budget-friendly and offers good basic performance.
- Lightweight design makes it easy to push and carry.
- Large dust cup reduces emptying frequency.
- Washable filter saves on replacement costs.
- Useful attachments for versatile cleaning.
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Cons:
- May not have the strongest suction compared to higher-end models.
- Basic features, no advanced technologies like swivel steering.
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User Impressions: Customers often highlight its simplicity, light weight, and excellent value for money. It’s seen as a reliable daily driver for general household dirt and small apartments, particularly appreciating the large dust cup.
See it on Amazon Here
Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with Swivel Steering
For pet owners, finding a vacuum that can truly tackle fur without costing an arm and a leg is a dream come true. The Bissell 2252 CleanView is built with pets in mind, featuring a Triple Action Brush Roll specifically designed to loosen, lift, and remove embedded pet hair. Its swivel steering makes navigating around furniture a breeze, while scatter-free technology ensures those dry kibble messes on hard floors are picked up, not pushed around. Plus, every Bissell purchase helps save homeless pets – talk about a feel-good clean!
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Key Features:
- Swivel steering for maximum maneuverability around obstacles.
- Triple Action Brush Roll for embedded pet hair removal.
- Multi-surface cleaning with Scatter-Free Technology for hard floors.
- Edge-to-edge cleaning for tackling dirt in corners and along edges.
- BISSELL proudly supports BISSELL Pet Foundation.
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Pros:
- Excellent for homes with pets, specifically designed for pet hair.
- Swivel steering makes it very agile and easy to use.
- Effective on multiple surfaces, preventing scatter on hard floors.
- Edge-to-edge cleaning ensures thoroughness.
- Supports a good cause.
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Cons:
- May be slightly heavier than other budget uprights.
- Some parts (like filters) might require more regular cleaning with heavy pet use.
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User Impressions: Pet owners rave about its ability to pick up pet hair effectively, even embedded strands. The swivel steering is a frequently praised feature, making it a joy to maneuver through cluttered spaces, and the scatter-free tech is a definite bonus.
See it on Amazon Here
Intercleaner Corded Vacuum Cleaner, 15KPa Powerful Suction Stick Vacuum
The Intercleaner Corded Vacuum Cleaner is a surprisingly powerful and versatile option, especially for its price. Boasting 15KPa of suction, it’s not shy about tackling dirt and debris on both hard floors and short-pile carpets. What truly sets it apart is its “12-in-1 Multifunction” design, coming with an impressive array of attachments that allow it to transform into a handheld vacuum, tackle stairs, windowsills, and even your car. This makes it an incredibly strong candidate for the best vacuum cleaner for under $100 if you need an all-rounder for various cleaning scenarios.
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Key Features:
- 12-in-1 Multifunction with 11 accessories for diverse cleaning needs.
- Powerful 15KPa suction from a brushless motor.
- 16.4ft extra-long cord for a broad cleaning range.
- Lightweight (3lb without wire) and portable design.
- Quickly switches to handheld vacuum mode.
- Large 0.8L dust cup.
- Pro-Max 3-layer filtration system with 2 extra washable HEPA filters.
- Pet-friendly quiet operation.
- One-button dust pouring for easy emptying.
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Pros:
- Exceptional versatility with numerous attachments.
- Strong suction power for its compact size.
- Long cord minimizes outlet changes.
- Very lightweight and easy for anyone to use.
- Excellent filtration system with washable HEPA filters.
- Quiet operation, good for homes with pets.
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Cons:
- Better suited for hard floors and short-pile carpets than deep pile.
- Corded operation, though the cord is long.
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User Impressions: Users are consistently impressed by the sheer number of accessories and the powerful suction from such a lightweight vacuum. Its ability to switch to a handheld cleaner for cars and furniture is a major highlight, making it a very popular choice for multi-surface cleaning.
See it on Amazon Here
Eureka WhirlWind Bagless Canister 2.5L Vacuum Cleaner
If you prefer the flexibility and maneuverability of a canister vacuum, the Eureka WhirlWind is an outstanding option that delivers on all fronts without breaking the bank. This lightweight canister vacuum offers powerful deep cleaning on carpets, upholstery, and hard floors, thanks to its integrated airflow control. Its swivel steering and telescoping wand allow you to effortlessly navigate around and under furniture, while the generous 2.5L dust container means fewer interruptions. For its price, it’s a brilliant choice if you’re looking for a versatile and easy-to-use canister vacuum.
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Key Features:
- Innovative multi-surface vacuum with integrated airflow control (960 watts).
- Lightweight (only 8.15 pounds) and easy to maneuver with swivel steering.
- Telescoping metal wand for extended reach.
- Large 2.5L dust container with no bags required.
- Washable filters for zero maintenance costs.
- 2-in-1 integrated crevice tool/dusting brush in the hose handle.
- Automatic cord rewind for convenience.
- One-button release for easy dust cup emptying.
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Pros:
- Excellent maneuverability and reach, especially under furniture.
- Large dust capacity means less frequent emptying.
- Washable filters save on recurring costs.
- Convenient integrated tools and automatic cord rewind.
- Powerful suction for multi-surface cleaning.
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Cons:
- Canister design might take up slightly more storage space than a stick vacuum.
- Still a corded vacuum, requiring an outlet.
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User Impressions: Many users appreciate the powerful suction combined with the lightweight and agile design. The large dust cup and integrated tools are frequently cited as highlights, making cleaning sessions more efficient and less of a chore.
See it on Amazon Here
Conclusion
Finding the best vacuum cleaner for under $100 might have seemed like a daunting task, but as you can see, there are some truly excellent, budget-friendly options available. From lightweight stick vacuums perfect for quick clean-ups and small apartments to powerful uprights designed to tackle pet hair on carpets, and versatile canister vacuums for full-home coverage, the market offers a fantastic range of choices.
When making your final decision, consider your specific needs: Do you have mostly hard floors or carpets? Are pets a factor? Do you need something super lightweight for stairs, or a versatile option for above-floor cleaning? Each vacuum on our list excels in different areas, so weighing these factors will help you pinpoint the perfect match.
Ultimately, a clean home doesn’t require a hefty investment. With these budget-friendly cleaning powerhouses, you can achieve sparkling floors and fresh living spaces without breaking the bank. Happy cleaning!
FAQ: Your Questions Answered
Q: Can a vacuum cleaner under $100 really be powerful enough?
A: Absolutely! While they may not have all the bells and whistles of high-end models, many budget vacuums (especially the ones reviewed here) offer surprisingly strong suction, especially on hard floors and low-pile carpets. They’re perfect for everyday dirt, dust, and even pet hair.
Q: Are bagless vacuums better than bagged ones for this price range?
A: For under $100, bagless vacuums are generally more common and often preferred because they eliminate the recurring cost of buying bags. However, they do require you to empty the dust cup more frequently, which can be a bit dusty.
Q: What’s the difference between a stick, upright, and canister vacuum?
A:
* Stick Vacuums: Lightweight, slim, and great for quick clean-ups and small spaces. Often convert to handheld.
* Upright Vacuums: Traditional design with strong suction, often good for deeper carpet cleaning. Can be heavier but some are lightweight.
* Canister Vacuums: Offer flexibility with a separate canister body and a wand/hose. Excellent maneuverability for getting under furniture and can be very versatile with attachments.
Q: Are these vacuums good for pet hair?
A: Yes, many budget vacuums, like the Bissell CleanView Swivel, are specifically designed with features like multi-action brush rolls to tackle pet hair effectively. Look for models that mention “pet hair” in their features or descriptions.
Q: Do these cheap vacuums come with washable filters?
A: Many of the recommended models, like the Eureka NEU10AE5 and Amazon Basics Upright, do feature washable filters. This is a great cost-saving and eco-friendly feature, reducing the need to constantly buy replacements.
Q: How often should I empty the dust cup or clean the filter?
A: It depends on how much you vacuum and how dirty your home gets. Generally, it’s best to empty the dust cup after each use or when it looks full. Washable filters should be rinsed every 1-3 months or as recommended by the manufacturer, ensuring they are completely dry before reinserting.
Q: Will a corded vacuum limit my cleaning?
A: While cordless vacuums offer ultimate freedom, corded models often provide stronger, consistent suction without worrying about battery life. Vacuums with long cords (like the Intercleaner with its 16.4ft cord) minimize the need to constantly switch outlets, making them very practical for most homes.
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