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Stick Vacuum vs Upright

Updated Jun 27, 2022 11:12 PM

When looking at a stick vacuum vs an upright vacuum, there are quite a few differences to keep in mind. Either type of vacuum can be a great choice, but the types of flooring you have, your lifestyle, and your budget will help you determine which is best. These are the same things you should consider when you are looking for the best vacuum cleaner in general.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

  • When looking for a cordless model, choosing a stick vacuum is better since they lack power but make up for it with maneuverability.
  • An upright vacuum cleaner is the best choice if you need powerful suction for deep-cleaning carpets and similar jobs.
  • Some people have both a stick vacuum and an upright vacuum because they have different flooring types.

Stick Vacuum Vs Upright Vacuum Compared

When thinking about a top stick vacuum vs an upright vacuum, you should consider the pros and cons of each design. Different types of debris will require different cleaning methods. You might even decide to invest in one of each so that your cleaning session can be truly well-rounded.

Explaining Stick Vacs

Stick vacs, like the Tineco vacuum, are usually what you’d think of a college kid having when they move into a dorm or somebody who has a small apartment. These are small, portable, and easy to use. Stick vacs do lack when it comes to power, especially in cordless models. Central vacuums are stronger, but they won’t fit in small apartments, which is why it’s better to compare central vacuums vs upright vacuums to find the right one. 

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Benefits of Stick Vacs

If you’re looking into a stick vacuum, there are tons of great benefits:

  • A corded stick vacuum will have comparable power to upright models
  • A stick vacuum can fit into tight spaces
  • A cordless stick vacuum is fantastic for a quick cleaning job

Drawbacks of Stick Vacs

A few cons stand out immediately. As a consumer, here is what you need to know:

  • A cordless stick vacuum will have weaker suction
  • A corded stick vacuum won’t be nearly as maneuverable

Explaining Upright Models

Upright vacuums are what you would think of when imagining a traditional vacuum cleaner. Most people invest in an upright vacuum at some point in their lives due to better suction power. While much larger, upright models make up for it with their ability to take on deep cleaning with ease.

Benefits of Upright Models

There are a ton of reasons why you might want to invest in an upright model:

  • They feature a more powerful motor
  • Their suction power cannot be matched
  • They come in corded and cordless models

Drawbacks of Upright Models

An upright vac is a traditional choice for most households. They do come with some drawbacks, however:

  • Upright models can be clunky and unwieldy
  • They can also get pretty expensive

Which Option Is Better

If you’re looking for the best budget picks, then a lower-end Dyson stick is a great option. Do you need powerful suction for mid-pile carpet? Then look for an upright model with a powerhead made to do that job. Your lifestyle and budget will always best determine what the best choice for your household is.

F.A.Q.S

What you should consider about canister vacuums?

When looking to invest in canister vacs, there are a few things to keep in mind. A canister vacuum cleaner may not be as hygienic as other models since they’re bagless vacuums. On the other hand, not having to replace vacuum bags makes canister vacuums a popular choice.


Which vacuums are better on hard floors?

Generally speaking, robot vacuums are a great choice since they’ll consistently clean up after you. If you’re using a traditional vacuum cleaner, then stick vacs are always a great choice. Some even have special pads made for hardwood floors.


Don’t stick vacuums run out of juice?

If they run off of battery power, absolutely they can. You should always make sure your vacuum has a full charge before beginning to use it.


What are the different types of vacuums?

There are a few main types of vacuum other than the two we’ve gone over today:


STAT: The Dyson TP04, perhaps unsurprisingly, performs well according to Dyson’s own metrics. (source)

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