I've been testing vacuums for over a year, here's the cheap vac I'd recommend to my thrifty friends

I've been reviewing vacuum cleaners at TechRadar for the past 18 months, during which time I've tested some of the very best vacuum cleaners money can buy, from vacuums that that can empty themselves, and vacuums that can tell you exactly what they're sucking up, to vacuums with lasers.

And while all of those vacuums are impressive, I'll concede that what most people want is a vacuum that does a good job of cleaning their floors, is comfortable to use, and – crucially – doesn't require them to take out a loan in order to purchase it.

Broadly speaking, you do get what you pay for with vacuum cleaners, so if you can I'd steer clear of the ultra-cheap end of the market. However, there are some real hidden gems in the budget bracket. Read on for a closer look at my favorite cheap vacuum cleaner – the one I recommend to my thrifty friends and family members – plus three great-value alternatives to consider if my top pick doesn't take your fancy.

This article focuses on US picks – click here for UK recommendations.

My #1 cheap vacuum cleaner in the US

The Shark Stratos Corded Stick vacuum is well designed, with suction powerful enough to clear vast amounts of dog hair from our tester's carpets. The supplied attachments are useful, and the modular design means this vacuum can be used in a number of configurations for different cleaning tasks.

At full price it's a relatively affordable $299.99, but deals crop up fairly regularly, and right now you can snap one up for a bargain $179.99 - and with that price cut, it's incredible value for money.

Various special features help elevate it well above what I'd expect for that budget-friendly price. The floorhead has LED lights to help illuminate dark corners, and is designed so that hair won't tangle around the brushroll. There's also an odor-neutralizer cartridge, which won over our tester by leaving his carpets smelling lovely and fresh.

A big reason why this vacuum is so cheap is because it's corded. In a world of mostly cordless vacuums, that can seem old-fashioned and inconvenient, but there are benefits to going corded that go beyond just price. The suction is almost always far superior to what you'd get on a cordless model, plus corded vacuums tend to last longer in general, so you're getting a better return on your investment. And, of course you'll never run out of juice, either. If having a cord is a deal-breaker, I've included three great cheap, cordless alternatives below.

Alternatives to consider...

Not sold on the Shark Corded? Here are three alternatives that also impressed me by punching well above their diminutive price tags.