Is it just me, or are modern vacuums are getting heavier? These are the best ultra-light vacuums that don't require biceps of steel

There's a worrying trend in modern stick vacuums: they just seem to be getting heavier and heavier. I spent two years reviewing vacuums as one of TechRadar's Homes Editors, and during that time I tested plenty of stick vacs that gave me arm- or back ache.

These days, the big brands are in a battle to offer the most suction power and longest runtimes, and sacrificing on weight and compactness to deliver it. Given that cordless stick vacuums we were developed as a lighter, smaller, more maneuverable alternative to clunky corded uprights, this new trend is as illogical as it is annoying.

For some, the extra weight is not just inconvenient, but can make using the vacuum impossible. Luckily, during my testing years I also tried some excellent lightweight vacuums. Below, I've rounded up my favorites — the lightest of which clocks in at just 4lbs / 1.8kg. All of these models deliver capable cleaning in a streamlined package that doesn't require biceps of steel to maneuver.

My top-rated lightweight vacuums

Which lightweight vacuum should I pick?

The standout lightweight option is the Dreame R20, which is the best cordless vacuum I've used. In my tests, it delivered capable cleaning on carpet and hard floor, and I was impressed with the advanced features such as automatic suction adjustment, as well as the value for money. It's not the lightest vacuum in this roundup, but it's the best all-rounder. A close runner up is the Shark Detect Pro Cordless, which is smaller and lighter than the R20, but with slightly less suction clout — this one's best for hard floors and light cleans.

If you're just dealing with hard flooring, you'd struggle to beat the Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones, a broom-shaped cordless vac that I praised for being 'incredibly nimble'. For shoppers in the US, I'd recommend going for the PencilVac Fluffy, which replaces the slightly annoying cone-shaped floorhead with a more practical parallel one. (I've also included the mopping sister model, the PencilWash, which is similarly petite but powerful.)

Finally, there are couple of more specialized Shark models to consider. The unusual FreeStyle Max is an ultra-maneuverable cordless upright that stands up on its own, so might be a more practical choice for those with mobility issues. The suction is powerful but the runtimes are short. The WandVac System is essentially a handheld vacuum with a compatible wand and floorhead. It's very light and versatile, but beware the suction is relatively weak and the battery very short.

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