Vacuum Cleaner with or without a Bag? Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Vacuum in 2025

The vacuum cleaner market is vast, and it can be difficult to navigate between bagged vacuums, bagless vacuums, stick vacuums, robot vacuums, and wet/dry vacuums. Whether you're looking for a cheap vacuum for a small apartment or a powerful vacuum for a large house with dog hair, this guide is for you.

1. Bagged vs. Bagless Vacuum: The Historic Duel

Bagged Vacuum (e.g., Miele, Rowenta):

• Advantages: Hygienic (dust is contained), often quieter, better filtration (ideal for allergies). Vacuum bags are easy to change.

• Disadvantages: Ongoing cost of bags, loss of power if the bag is too full.

• For whom? Those who prioritize hygiene and filtration and don't want to empty a dustbin.

Bagless Vacuum (e.g., Dyson, some Bosch models):

• Advantages: More economical long-term (no bag purchases), power is often consistent. Cyclonic models are very effective.

• Disadvantages: Emptying the bin can be dusty. Requires regular cleaning or replacement of the HEPA filter.

• For whom? Those who want savings and consistent power.

Verdict: The best bagless vacuum is ideal for intensive use, while the bagged vacuum suits those with allergies.

2. Cordless Stick Vacuum: Freedom Above All

The cordless stick vacuum is perfect for quick clean-ups and small areas. Models like the Dyson V8 or Rowenta X-force Flex are very popular.

• Advantages: Lightweight, maneuverable, no cord. Perfect for car cleaning or stairs.

• Disadvantages: Limited battery life, sometimes less powerful than corded models.

• Our Selection: Shark Stick Vacuum, Electrolux Stick Vacuum, Philips Stick Vacuum.

• Tip: Check tests and reviews on cordless vacuums to choose the best battery life.

3. Cylinder/Upright Vacuum: Power for Large Spaces

The cylinder vacuum (or "upright vacuum") is a classic. It is often very powerful and robust.

• Top Picks: Rowenta Silence Force, Dyson models, Miele Complete C3.

• Where to find it? Darty, Boulanger, Conforama, Electro Depot, and even Auchan or Leclerc during sales.

4. Robot Vacuum: The Autonomous Assistant

The robot vacuum is ideal for daily maintenance. Models with self-emptying stations are a must.

• Top Brands: iRobot Roomba, Xiaomi Roborock, Ecovacs Deebot, Samsung.

• Where to buy? Compare prices on Amazon, Cdiscount, or in stores like Darty and Boulanger.

5. Specific Vacuums: For Particular Needs

• Vacuum for Dog/Cat Hair: Choose a model with good power and an anti-tangle system. Cylinder vacuums or stick vacuums with motorized brushes are excellent.

• Wet/Dry Vacuum (Karcher): Essential for heavy-duty jobs, workshops, or cleaning above-ground pools. The Karcher WD series is a benchmark.

• Vacuum Mop (Shark, Bissell): It vacuums and washes simultaneously. Perfect for hard floors. Check reviews on vacuum mops before choosing.

How to Choose? Our Buying Guide

• Power (in watts or Air Watts): This is the main criterion. For intensive use or pet hair, prioritize high vacuum power.

• Noise: If you have children or pets, look for a quiet vacuum.

• Filtration: A HEPA filter is essential for trapping allergens.

• Accessories: Specialized vacuum brushes (for hardwood, carpets, crevices) are very useful.

• Your Budget: There are good cheap vacuums at Lidl (Parkside, Silvercrest) or Brico Dépôt. For high-end, turn to Miele or Dyson.

Conclusion: Which is the Best Vacuum Cleaner?

The best vacuum cleaner is the one that meets YOUR needs:

• Large house with pets -> Powerful cylinder vacuum or high-end cordless stick vacuum.

• Apartment -> Robot vacuum for maintenance + a stick vacuum for corners.

• DIY/Heavy-duty cleaning -> Karcher wet/dry vacuum.