We Tested the Best Cordless Vacuums Under $200: Shark, Bissell, and More

If you’re looking for a top-performing vacuum to handle everyday messes, the Shark HydroDuo Cordless Cleaner is a clear winner. Our tester noted its reliable performance on both linoleum and tile, easily picking up a mix of dry debris and wet spills in a single pass. The only minor hiccup was some spilled rice, which took a few extra swipes, but the vacuum still got the job done.

One detail that really stood out was the built-in LED lights, which helped highlight tiny particles that might otherwise be missed. The floors also dried quickly — much faster than with traditional mopping, so there was no tiptoing around damp areas.

This cordless vacuum is a great pick for busy households looking for an affordable and lightweight option that works well across multiple surfaces. We found it especially effective on tile and hardwood, easily lifting dust and crumbs without much effort. It also handled low-pile carpet and rugs well, though it truly excelled on hard floors. The vacuum’s slim, easy-to-steer design made it simple to maneuver around furniture and tight spaces. 

It was particularly convenient on stairs, with a compact base that fit neatly on each step. Emptying the dustbin was hassle-free, with clear arrow stickers showing exactly where to unlatch. It was one less thing to think about, which made everyday cleanups feel that much easier.

For a budget-friendly vacuum, this Proscenic cordless model packs an impressive punch. It picked up dirt, hair, and debris in just one or two passes, and our tester found it “shockingly”  lightweight. The vacuum’s flexible neck made cleaning under chairs, the couch, and around tight corners simple. It also had some of the best navigation of any model we tried, smoothly gliding around furniture without getting stuck. 

The built-in LED light was another standout, helping reveal hidden dust and fine debris. While it struggled slightly with glitter on an upstairs rug, it handled everything else with ease. It performed better on hardwood and laminate but still did well on carpet. Overall, we found it to be a smart, well-designed choice for everyday cleaning.

If a lightweight vacuum is at the top of your wishlist, this model delivers without feeling bulky or heavy. It stood out to our tester as a solid pick for everyday messes and handled dust and crumbs with ease, especially on tile and wood floors. Its slim build made it easy to maneuver around tight corners, and it was compact enough to store without taking up much space. The narrow base worked well on stairs and rested securely on each step, too. 

Emptying the dust cup was simple thanks to clear arrow indicators, although detaching it from the wand first added a small inconvenience. That said, from setup to cleanup, it offered a smooth and efficient experience that made quick jobs feel faster and less of a hassle.

For pet owners, the Bissell Featherweight Cordless Vacuum offers a great mix of power and convenience. It’s lightweight and easy to maneuver yet strong enough to pick up debris, fur, and crumbs in just one pass across a variety of floor types. Our tester appreciated the option to turn the brush roll on or off, which helps protect hard floors while still delivering a thorough clean. 

As a handheld, it’s especially useful for tackling pet hair on furniture, lifting crumbs from crevices, and even grabbing scattered litter on the carpet. Although it’s a bit louder than expected, it handled everyday pet messes with no trouble, making it a smart, versatile choice for homes with animals.