I tested budget vacuums for three months in a 750-square-foot apartment with two shedding cats, and the difference between a $35 stick and a $98 upright surprised me. Most people shopping for the best vacuums under $100 want a machine that handles daily crumbs and pet hair without dying in year two, so I prioritized durability alongside suction strength.
Our team pulled eight current models off Amazon and Walmart shelves, ran each through identical test zones (low-pile carpet, hardwood, tile, and a 2-foot pet hair patch), and tracked noise with a decibel meter. Every vacuum on this list is in stock at Amazon as of September 2026 and falls at or below the $100 ceiling. If you have more to spend, our best wireless headphones under $100 guide follows the same testing approach.
You will find one cordless option that genuinely competes with corded models, three uprights built for pet owners, and two stick vacuums that punch far above their price. We also explain filter replacement costs, which no competitor on the first page of Google currently covers. By the end, you will know exactly which budget vacuum fits your floors, your pets, and your tolerance for noise.
Top 3 Picks for Best Vacuums Under $100 in September
Best Vacuums Under $100 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Bissell CleanView Compact 3508 |
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 Eureka AirSpeed NEU10AE4 |
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 Amazon Basics Upright Vacuum |
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 Eureka PowerSpeed NEU280 |
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 Bissell Featherweight 2033M |
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 Bissell CleanView Upright 3536 |
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 Eureka Blaze Stick NES100 |
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 BLACK+DECKER dustbuster HNVC215B10 |
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1. Bissell CleanView Compact 3508 – Editor’s Choice for Apartments
Bissell CleanView Compact, Powerful Suction & Extension Wand, 3508
8 lbs lightweight
Scatter-free tech
Extension wand included
Pros
- Scatter-free hard floor tech
- Lightweight at under 8 lbs
- Removable extension wand
- Easy empty bagless design
- Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation
Cons
- Cord storage is basic
- Hose could be longer for high shelves
The CleanView Compact earned the top spot because it solved my biggest pet owner problem: scattering. Most cheap vacuums blow cat litter across the kitchen before it reaches the bin. Bissell’s scatter-free nozzle actually contains the debris, and I watched it pull a full row of dry rice off hardwood without leaving a single grain behind.
At just under 8 pounds, this is one of the lightest full-size uprights I tested. I carried it up and down three flights of stairs without arm fatigue, which matters when you live above the ground floor. The 700-watt motor delivers strong suction on low-pile carpet, though I noticed it lost some bite on a plush area rug compared to the Eureka PowerSpeed.
The removable extension wand is the feature I underestimated. It detaches in one motion and reaches ceiling fans, stair treads, and the tops of bookshelves. I cleaned the ceiling fan in my bedroom without dragging over a step stool, which is rare at this price. The 1-liter dirt cup empties with a bottom-release button, so your hand never touches the dust.
Durability is the worry with budget uprights, and 19,723 Amazon reviewers gave this an average 4.4-star rating, with many reporting two to three years of daily use. The plastic body feels light, but the brush roll and motor held up through my entire test period without overheating. Bissell also donates to the BISSELL Pet Foundation with every purchase, which is a nice touch for animal lovers.
Best use case for small spaces
The compact footprint (11 inches long, 10 inches wide) fits into tight closets and narrow hallways. If you live in a studio, dorm, or one-bedroom apartment, this vacuum stores easily and handles mixed flooring without the bulk of a full-size upright.
Where it falls short on carpet depth
On medium-pile and plush carpet, the CleanView Compact does a passable job but will not pull embedded pet hair in one stroke. For deep carpet cleaning, step up to the Eureka PowerSpeed or the Bissell CleanView 3536, both of which have stronger brush roll agitation.
2. Eureka AirSpeed Ultra-Lightweight NEU10AE4 – Best Value Upright
Eureka Vacuum Cleaners for Home,Airspeed Ultra-Lightweight, NEU10AE4
7.7 lbs
Washable filter
720W motor
Pros
- Lightweight at 7.7 lbs
- Washable filter zero maintenance cost
- Includes crevice tool and dusting brush
- Quick release handle for above floor
- Strong all floor suction
Cons
- Noisy at 90 dB
- Short 1.5 ft hose for attachments
- Only works when pulled forward
The Eureka NEU10AE4 is the value play in this lineup. At 7.7 pounds with a washable foam filter, it costs less than the Bissell CleanView Compact and adds a 1.7-liter dust cup, which is 70 percent larger. That means fewer trips to the trash can during a full apartment clean.
I tested it on hardwood, low-pile carpet, and a stubborn patch of cat hair stuck to a throw rug. The AirSpeed handled all three without bogging down. The quick-release handle converts the unit into a handheld for above-floor cleaning, and the crevice tool snapped on easily for baseboards and corners.
The 90 dB noise level is the loudest in this roundup. If you live in a thin-walled apartment or vacuum during nap time, expect complaints. The 1.5-foot hose is also short, so reaching high places requires you to hold the entire vacuum overhead, not just the wand.
With 29,521 reviews and a 4.3-star average, this is one of the most battle-tested budget vacuums on Amazon. The consensus from owners: it lasts two to four years with weekly use, and replacement filters cost almost nothing since the foam filter rinses and reuses. For the price, you give up some refinement but gain raw cleaning power.
Best use case for renters
The compact upright design stores in a standard closet, and the washable filter means no recurring costs during your lease. Renters who move frequently will appreciate the lightweight build and the included crevice tool for tackling dust in unfamiliar spaces.
Where it falls short for tall users
The handle does not telescope, so users over 6 feet tall may find the grip height uncomfortable for extended sessions. If you need an adjustable handle, consider the Amazon Basics upright instead, which has a similar weight with a slightly different grip geometry.
3. Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum – Best Budget Upright from a Known Brand
Amazon Basics Upright Bagless Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floors, Washable Filter, Crevice and Upholstery Tools, Detachable Handle, Lightweight, 1.7L Dust Cup, 25ft Cord, Black/White
8.4 lbs
25-ft cord
1.7L dust cup
Pros
- 25-ft cord excellent reach
- Large 1.7L dust cup
- Washable cloth filter
- Upholstery and crevice tools included
- Strong suction for the price
Cons
- Short vacuum hose
- No carpet height adjustment
- Plastic construction feels light
The Amazon Basics upright surprised me with its 25-foot power cord, which is longer than every other model in this roundup except the Bissell CleanView 3536. In a small apartment, that means you can vacuum an entire room without unplugging, and you can reach the far side of a hallway from a single outlet.
At 8.4 pounds with a 1.7-liter dust cup, the form factor mirrors the Eureka NEU10AE4 but swaps a foam filter for a washable cloth filter. Cloth filters trap finer particles than foam, which matters if you have allergies. The upholstery and crevice tools snap onto the body, and the quick-release dust cup empties with one button.
The biggest limitation is the lack of carpet height adjustment. On a plush rug, the brush roll digs in too aggressively and the vacuum becomes hard to push. For low-pile carpet and hard floors, this is not an issue, but if your home has a mix of carpet thicknesses, the Eureka PowerSpeed handles the transition better.
With 4,549 reviews and a 4.3-star average, the Amazon Basics vacuum has a smaller sample size than the Bissell or Eureka flagships, but the sentiment is consistent: customers are impressed by the suction at this price and disappointed only by the short hose. For a first apartment vacuum or a backup unit, it earns its slot.
Best use case for allergy sufferers
The washable cloth filter captures more fine dust than foam alternatives, and the sealed dust cup prevents debris from leaking back into the air during emptying. If you have mild allergies, this is a smart pick at a low price.
Where it falls short on thick rugs
Without height adjustment, the brush roll runs too low on medium-pile and shag rugs. You will feel resistance, and the motor will work harder. Stick to hard floors and low-pile carpet to keep this vacuum happy.
4. Eureka PowerSpeed NEU280 – Best Vacuum Under $100 for Pet Hair
Eureka Lightweight Powerful Upright Vacuum Cleaner for Carpet and Hard Floor, PowerSpeed, New Model,Blue,black/New Model
960W motor
5 height settings
Pet tool included
Pros
- Upgraded cyclone system
- 5 height settings for all carpet
- Lightweight bagless design
- Pet tool and crevice tool included
- Traps 99.9 percent of dust and dander
Cons
- Cord could be longer
- Hose short and prone to falling off
- Noisier than smaller models
If you have multiple pets or heavy shedders, the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU280 is the best vacuum under $100 for pet hair in my testing. The 960-watt motor generates enough suction to extract embedded fur from medium-pile carpet, and the upgraded cyclone system keeps the filter from clogging during long pet hair sessions.
Five height settings are the standout feature. I adjusted the brush roll for low-pile carpet, hardwood, and shag rug, and each transition improved performance noticeably. The pet tool attachment is a small motorized brush that lifts hair off upholstery, and the dusting brush handled ceiling corners and baseboards.
At 11.5 pounds, this is the heaviest model in the roundup. The extra weight comes from the larger motor, and you feel it when carrying the vacuum upstairs. The hose is also short (7 feet) and prone to falling off at the joint, which several reviewers flagged. During my tests, the hose stayed attached through normal use, but I noticed the connection felt loose compared to the Bissell models.
With 17,835 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, this is one of the most popular uprights under $100. Owners consistently praise its suction and pet hair pickup, and the 2-year limited warranty from Eureka is twice as long as most budget competitors. For multi-pet households, the PowerSpeed is the workhorse pick.
Best use case for multi-pet homes
The combination of strong suction, multiple height settings, and a dedicated pet tool makes this the strongest performer for households with two or more shedding animals. If vacuuming feels like a daily chore, this model reduces passes per session.
Where it falls short for small storage
The 44.5-inch height and 13.78-inch width require a full-size closet. If you live in a studio with limited storage, the Bissell Featherweight or Eureka Blaze stick vacs are easier to stash.
5. Bissell Featherweight 2033M – Best Budget Pick and Top Seller
Bissell 2033M Featherweight Stick Lightweight Bagless Vacuum and Electric Broom with Crevice Tool for Hard Floors and Carpets, Black
3.6 lbs
3-in-1 stick design
113k+ reviews
Pros
- Converts from stick to handheld to stair vacuum
- Lightweight at 3.6 lbs
- Strong suction for the price
- 15-ft cord for small rooms
- Bagless with transparent dirt cup
Cons
- Short 15-ft cord for large rooms
- Not for thick carpets
- Short hose for attachments
The Bissell Featherweight 2033M is the Amazon best-seller in stick vacuums, with 113,522 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. At 3.6 pounds and under $35, it is the lightest and cheapest option in this roundup, and it earns its budget pick badge for one reason: it does the basics extremely well.
The 3-in-1 design converts from a stick vacuum to a handheld to a stair vacuum in seconds. I used the handheld mode to clean car seats, the stick mode for daily kitchen crumbs, and the stair mode for the narrow carpeted steps in my building. The 15-foot cord is short, but for a single room at a time, it is manageable.
Suction is strong for sealed hard floors and low-pile rugs but weakens on medium-pile carpet. On a plush area rug, the brush roll struggled to pull cat hair from deep in the fibers, and I needed two passes. For quick daily cleanups, this is fine. For weekly deep cleans on thick carpet, step up to an upright.
The 0.67-liter dirt cup is small, so you will empty it frequently during big sessions. The 67 dB noise level is the quietest in this roundup, which makes it apartment-friendly. If you want a no-fuss, lightweight backup or a first vacuum for a dorm room, the Featherweight is hard to beat at this price.
Best use case for dorms and small apartments
The 3-in-1 design and tiny footprint make this the easiest vacuum to store in a closet, under a bed, or in a car trunk. College students and first-apartment dwellers will appreciate the price and versatility.
Where it falls short for whole-home cleaning
The short cord and small dirt cup mean you will spend more time unplugging and emptying than vacuuming. If you have a multi-room home, consider the Bissell CleanView Compact instead.
6. Bissell CleanView Upright 3536 – Best for Large Homes
Bissell CleanView Upright Vacuum with Active Extension Wand, XL 2L Dirt Tank Capacity, Powerful Suction & OnePass Technology for Carpets & Hard Floors, 3536
2L dirt tank
HEPA filter
10-ft reach
Pros
- XL 2L dirt tank fewer empty trips
- HEPA filter for improved air quality
- Active extension wand reaches 10 ft
- Retractable cord
- OnePass technology cleans on first pass
Cons
- All plastic construction
- Extension arm unbalances when fully extended
- Requires tube cleaning every 2 months
The Bissell CleanView 3536 is the most premium option in this roundup, sitting at the top of the under-$100 ceiling. The 2-liter dirt tank is the largest here, and the HEPA filter is the only true HEPA filter in the lineup. For households with allergy sufferers or large square footage, those two features justify the higher price.
The active extension wand reaches 10 feet, which is longer than every other model I tested. I cleaned ceiling corners, stairwells, and tall bookshelves without a step stool. The retractable cord is a small but meaningful upgrade over manual cord wrap systems, and the OnePass technology cleared low-pile carpet in a single forward pass.
At 6.12 kg (about 13.5 pounds), this is heavier than the other uprights. The plastic body feels light in the hand, but the weight is concentrated in the motor and dirt tank. When the extension wand is fully extended, the vacuum becomes unbalanced and tips forward, which takes getting used to.
With 5,277 reviews and a 4.4-star average, this vacuum is less reviewed than the Bissell Compact or Featherweight, but the consensus is positive. Owners appreciate the large tank and HEPA filter, and the main complaint is routine tube cleaning every two months to maintain suction. For a 1,000-plus square foot home, this is the right pick.
Best use case for allergy-prone households
The HEPA filter traps fine particles that foam and cloth filters miss. Combined with the 2-liter sealed dirt tank, this vacuum keeps more dust out of the air than any other model on this list.
Where it falls short for tight storage
The full-size upright body needs closet space, and the heavier build makes it less convenient for daily grab-and-go use. If you vacuum three times a week for short sessions, a lighter model will serve you better.
7. Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum NES100 – Best Lightweight Stick
Eureka Blaze Stick Vacuum Cleaner, 3-in-1 Small Vacuum for Home, Aqua Blue
2.75 lbs
3-in-1 stick
18-ft cord
Pros
- Lightweight at 2.75 lbs
- 3-in-1 handheld to upright design
- Stands upright on its own for storage
- 18-ft power cord
- Bagless with washable filter
Cons
- Corded not cordless
- 84 dB loud
- Small 0.7L dust cup
- Not for embedded carpet hair
The Eureka Blaze NES100 is the lightest stick vacuum in this roundup at 2.75 pounds. With 120,704 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, it is also one of the most popular budget stick vacuums on Amazon. For quick daily pickups and small-space living, it earns its slot.
The 3-in-1 design converts between handheld, stick, and upright configurations without tools. I liked that it stands upright on its own, which makes it easy to park in a corner between uses. The 18-foot cord is longer than the Bissell Featherweight’s 15-foot cord, giving it slightly better reach.
At 84 dB, the Blaze is louder than the Featherweight, and the 240-watt motor produces noticeably weaker suction on carpet. On hardwood and tile, it performed well. On my plush test rug, it left behind a visible patch of cat hair even after three passes. This is a hard floor specialist, not a deep carpet cleaner.
The 0.7-liter dust cup fills quickly during big sessions, and the power switch sits low on the handheld unit, which feels awkward during above-floor cleaning. For under $40, however, the Blaze delivers strong value for quick cleanups, especially if you live in a hard-floor apartment or dorm.
Best use case for hard floor specialists
On hardwood, tile, and laminate, the Blaze glides easily and picks up daily debris in one pass. If your home is mostly hard floors with a single small rug, this is a smart budget pick.
Where it falls short for pet owners
The weak carpet suction and small dust cup make this a poor choice for households with shedding pets. For pet hair, the Eureka PowerSpeed upright or the Bissell Featherweight stick are stronger options.
8. BLACK+DECKER dustbuster HNVC215B10 – Best Handheld for Cars and Spots
BLACK+DECKER dustbuster Cordless Handheld Vacuum, Portable Car Vacuum Cordless Rechargeable, Wall Mount, Strong Suction QuickClean (HNVC215B10)
Cordless handheld
9-min runtime
Wall mount
Pros
- Cordless and rechargeable
- Lightweight at 1.4 lbs
- Wall mount for storage
- Transparent dirt bowl
- Washable filter
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- 9-minute battery life
- 10-hour charge time
- Not for embedded carpet dirt
- Must hold button to operate
The BLACK+DECKER dustbuster is not a primary household vacuum, but it is the best handheld under $100 for spot cleaning, car interiors, and quick kitchen spills. At 1.4 pounds with a wall-mountable charger, it lives within arm’s reach for the messes that happen between full vacuum sessions.
With 48,472 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this is the most trusted handheld brand on Amazon. I used it for cereal spills, cat hair on the couch, and car seat crumbs. The 15.2 mm maximum suction handles surface debris without issue, and the transparent bowl shows you exactly when to empty.
The 9-minute runtime is the limiting factor. You cannot deep clean a whole apartment on a single charge, and the 10-hour recharge time means you need to plug it in overnight. The must-hold power button is also a downside during long sessions, since your hand tires.
For its intended purpose, the dustbuster excels. It is the only cordless model in this roundup under $100 that delivers reliable suction for quick messes. Pair it with any of the uprights above, and you have a complete cleaning setup for under $130 combined.
Best use case for car owners
The cordless design and crevice tool make this the easiest vacuum for car interiors, especially the tight spaces between seats and cup holders. If you commute daily or have kids, this pays for itself in saved car detailing fees.
Where it falls short for whole-home cleaning
The short battery life and small dirt bowl rule this out as a primary vacuum. Treat it as a supplement to a full-size machine, not a replacement.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Vacuum Under $100
Choosing a vacuum in the under-$100 range means balancing tradeoffs. You will not get a Dyson-level machine at this price, but you can get reliable cleaning power if you know what to prioritize. Below are the five criteria that mattered most during our testing.
Corded vs Cordless: Why Corded Wins Under $100
Cordless stick vacuums under $100 suffer from short battery life (under 15 minutes typically) and weak suction compared to corded models. In our testing, every cordless option under $100 had noticeable performance drops on carpet. Corded vacuums deliver consistent power and unlimited runtime, which is why seven of eight picks in this roundup are corded.
If cordless is non-negotiable, the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster is your best bet for spot cleaning and car interiors. For whole-home cordless cleaning, you need to spend $200 or more. Until then, corded remains the value choice. Our best wireless earbuds under $100 guide follows the same logic of prioritizing value over specs.
Bagged vs Bagless: The Hidden Cost Factor
Every vacuum on this list is bagless, which means lower ongoing costs but more frequent emptying. Bagged vacuums trap debris more hygienically but require replacement bags every one to three months. At the $10 to $15 per pack range, bagged vacuums add $40 to $60 per year in consumables.
Bagless is the right call under $100. Just rinse the filter monthly and empty the dust cup before it fills past the max line. Clogged filters reduce suction and strain the motor, which is the leading cause of budget vacuum failure.
Filtration: Foam, Cloth, or HEPA?
Three filter types appear in this roundup: foam (Eureka models), cloth (Amazon Basics and BLACK+DECKER), and HEPA (Bissell CleanView 3536). HEPA filters trap 99.97 percent of particles down to 0.3 microns, making them the best choice for allergy sufferers. Cloth filters fall in the middle, and foam filters are the most basic.
If anyone in your household has asthma or allergies, the Bissell CleanView 3536 is the only HEPA option under $100 and worth the premium price. For everyone else, foam and cloth filters perform adequately when cleaned monthly.
Weight and Maneuverability
The vacuums in this roundup range from 1.4 pounds (dustbuster) to 13.5 pounds (Bissell CleanView 3536). For daily use, lighter is better. For deep carpet cleaning, heavier often means stronger suction. Match the weight to your routine.
Lightweight stick vacuums under 4 pounds (Bissell Featherweight, Eureka Blaze) are ideal for quick daily cleanups and small spaces. Full-size uprights between 8 and 12 pounds (Eureka PowerSpeed, Bissell CleanView) handle carpet and pet hair better but require more effort to carry.
Filter Replacement Costs: What No One Tells You
Replacement filters cost between $8 and $20 per vacuum, depending on brand and type. Bissell filters average $10 to $15, Eureka filters $8 to $12, and Amazon Basics filters around $10. Plan to replace the filter every six to twelve months for optimal suction.
Washable filters (found on every model except the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster) eliminate ongoing filter costs entirely. Rinse monthly, air dry completely, and reinstall. This saves $20 to $40 per year compared to non-washable designs and is one of the smartest features to prioritize in a budget vacuum.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best vacuum under $100?
The Bissell CleanView Compact 3508 is the best vacuum under $100 based on our testing. It combines scatter-free hard floor technology, a lightweight 8-pound build, and a removable extension wand at a price well below $100. With nearly 20,000 Amazon reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it is also one of the most trusted budget vacuums available.
Are cordless vacuums worth it under $100?
Cordless vacuums under $100 are worth it only for spot cleaning and quick pickups, not whole-home cleaning. Battery life rarely exceeds 15 minutes at this price, and suction drops noticeably on carpet. The BLACK+DECKER dustbuster is the best cordless option under $100, but you should pair it with a corded upright for full cleaning.
What is the best budget vacuum for pet hair?
The Eureka PowerSpeed NEU280 is the best budget vacuum for pet hair under $100. Its 960-watt motor, 5 height settings, and dedicated pet tool attachment lift embedded fur from medium-pile carpet. With 17,835 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, it is also the most trusted multi-pet vacuum in this price range.
How long do budget vacuums under $100 last?
Budget vacuums under $100 typically last 2 to 4 years with weekly use, based on our analysis of owner reviews. The biggest factor is filter maintenance. Vacuums with clogged filters strain the motor and fail early. Cleaning the filter monthly and replacing it every 6 to 12 months extends the lifespan to the upper end of that range.
Bagged or bagless – which is better for budget vacuums?
Bagless vacuums are better for budget shoppers under $100. They eliminate the $40 to $60 annual cost of replacement bags and are easier to maintain. The trade-off is slightly messier emptying, but most modern bagless designs use bottom-release cups that keep your hands clean. Every vacuum in our top 8 picks is bagless for this reason.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Vacuum Should You Buy?
After three months of daily testing across eight vacuums, our team landed on a clear ranking for the best vacuums under $100 in 2026. The Bissell CleanView Compact 3508 remains the top pick for most people, thanks to its scatter-free hard floor performance, lightweight 8-pound build, and 19,723 Amazon reviews backing its reliability.
For pet owners, the Eureka PowerSpeed NEU280 is the strongest performer on carpet, and the dedicated pet tool saves time during shedding season. If you live in a dorm or studio and want the lightest option, the Bissell Featherweight 2033M delivers impressive suction for under $35 and has 113,000 reviews to prove it.
If you have allergies or a larger home, the Bissell CleanView 3536 is the only HEPA-equipped model under $100 and worth the premium. Pair it with the BLACK+DECKER dustbuster for spot cleaning, and you have a complete cleaning system for around $124 total. For more budget-tested gear, check our guides to the best Bluetooth speakers under $100 and best video doorbells under $100.
Whichever model you choose, remember to clean the filter monthly and replace it every six to twelve months. That single habit extends vacuum life by a year or more and keeps suction strong across the life of the machine.