By Kat Hodgins and Amanda Lauren | Updated May 20, 2022 2:26 PM
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Mess accumulates in the home every day. Someone’s shoes carry dirt into the house, children’s snacks fall on the floor, the cat tracks litter out of the box, and the list goes on. A traditional broom requires you to crouch and sweep the mess into a dustpan, kicking up dust particles and allergens. Since a full-size vacuum can be too big and bulky for quick cleaning, and a handheld vacuum may be too small and also requires a lot of bending over to suction up the dirt, we tested some of the best electric brooms in real-world applications to find out which performs the best in each type of scenario.
The best electric broom is often lightweight and transportable, provides powerful suction, and offers effective filtration to keep dust particles from entering the air. Maneuverable and versatile for quickly suctioning smaller messes, an electric broom can be used daily for a cleaner home.
Keep reading to learn about more factors to consider when shopping for the best electric broom. Plus, find out the results of our hands-on tests of some top-rated electric brooms on the market for picking up all types of messes on hardwood, carpet, and tile flooring.
ALSO TESTED: Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX Cordless Stick Vacuum
Electric brooms can combine the ease of a traditional broom with the power of a vacuum to create a useful and convenient cleaning tool. A user-friendly weight and a powerful suction for the floors in your home are two of the most important features to consider when searching for the right type of electric broom. Keep reading to discover features to keep in mind as you shop.
Common vacuum types include corded vacuums, upright vacuums, and electric sweepers.
An average upright vacuum usually weighs between 14 and 17 pounds, making it somewhat bulky and inconvenient to bring it out of a closet frequently for small messes. In contrast, an electric broom typically weighs between 6 and 7 pounds, so it’s lighter in weight and smaller for easy use. The ideal weight of an electric broom is different for each user. It will feel comfortable for one-handed operation without straining the arm, wrist, and hand.
While the lightweight nature of an electric broom does make it easier to use, the size and head flexibility are the difference makers when cleaning under and around furniture. The smaller size and lower profile of an electric broom allow for effortless maneuvering compared to a traditional vacuum. Head flexibility enables an electric broom to swivel in and out of tight spaces without having to lift it off the floor and readjust the angle. Many electric brooms also convert into a handheld vacuum for more versatility and targeted cleaning.
Modern electric brooms tend to provide varying levels of multisurface cleaning. Some models can switch from hard floors, like hardwood or tile, to rugs and carpets. In general, electric brooms work best on hard floors since dirt and debris remain on the surface and are easily suctioned up.
The biggest difference in performance between electric brooms and traditional vacuums is how they perform on carpet. Thicker carpets require a vacuum with additional suction power. Many electric brooms aren’t as effective on thick-pile carpets because they may not be powerful enough for a deep clean that removes dirt, debris, and pet hair. Some upgraded electric brooms boast a more powerful suction and a design to deep-clean all floor types, including carpet, but these come at a higher cost.
An electric broom is only as good as its suction power. Multisurface electric brooms may offer various modes that increase or decrease suction power based on the floor type or the amount of suction required for a specific mess.
Keep in mind that moving to maximum suction on an multisurface broom can deplete the battery faster than leaving it on a lower suction level. To enhance the powerful suction in an electric broom, make sure the filter is clean with a tight seal around it.
An electric broom’s runtime refers to the battery life, which is a moot feature for corded electric brooms. For cordless brooms, runtime varies from model to model, with older models capable of only 15 to 30 minutes of operation. Some newer models may run for up to 60 minutes before requiring a recharge.
The runtime is primarily affected by how the electric broom is used. If it is constantly running on maximum power, the battery drains faster. Additionally, the type of floor also affects runtime, as sweeping a carpet uses more power than cleaning a hard floor. For the longest-lasting runtime, use the setting that’s appropriate for the size of the mess and the floor type.
When the battery runs low, cordless electric brooms either charge on a docking station or a removable battery charges externally from the broom. It can take several hours to recharge an electric broom, so being aware of the battery limit helps make the most of the runtime.
When a vacuum pulls in dirty air as it sweeps dust and debris from a floor, that air then needs to be expelled. A quality filtration system traps these tiny particles so they don’t leave the vacuum with this expelled clean air. A vacuum’s filtration specs explain the size of the dust particles (in microns) that it removes from the air. As 1 micron is one-thousandth of a millimeter, effective filtration can remove not only dust but also allergen and bacteria particles from the air.
Many electric brooms use cyclone filtration, which draws dirt out of the air using vortex separation and releases clean air back into the home. Cyclone filtration helps filters remain relatively dust-free over time, minimizing the need to frequently replace them. HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) vacuum filters are a type of cyclone filtration that removes up to 99.995 percent of all air particles as small as 0.3 micron.
A brush roll is a plastic or a metal cylinder with rows of bristles that rotate at a high speed for cleaning carpets. Brush rolls are driven by a belt attached to a motor and rotate at a fast rpm (revolutions per minute), which loosens dirt from the carpet fibers. The spinning motion drives dirt upward toward the electric broom’s suction so it can be pulled inside the device.
When the brush roll is activated via an electric broom’s carpet setting, it lowers to reach deeper into the carpet. Some brush rolls may scratch hardwood and other hard flooring, illustrating the importance of using an electric broom on the appropriate setting for each floor type.
Brush rolls tend to trap hair that accumulates over time and needs to be removed from the electric broom by hand. Some manufacturers use silicone fins instead of bristles to agitate the carpet and minimize the collection of hair.
Electric brooms may offer more than meets the eye. Here are some additional features:
Guided by the abovementioned considerations, we tested different electric brooms based on what features matter for most living spaces. From battery life to suction power and affordability, these choices cover a variety of categories to ensure messes and spills don’t last long.
Here’s a cordless electric broom meant for everyday living. Weighing just over 5 pounds, it runs without fading for up to 40 minutes, cleaning all flooring types from hardwood to low-pile rugs. For increased suction on carpets, use the button on the handle to switch to MAX power.
The broom features LED headlights so users can target debris, even in dark areas under tables and furniture. Better yet, the low-profile head makes it easy to access hard-to-reach places, including under beds and nightstands.
The electric broom’s cyclone filtration system traps dirt and dust, leaving room air cleaner after use. When life momentarily interrupts cleaning, use the built-in rest nook to securely position the electric broom against a counter, sofa, or table.
For areas that benefit from a hand vacuum, Eureka’s electric broom converts to a handheld model and provides a crevice tool and a brush attachment for cleaning other areas of the home. When the mess is gone, simply plug the electric broom into the wall outlet to charge.
Get the Eureka electric broom on Amazon or Walmart.
The Hoover ONEPWR HEPA Cordless Bagged Upright Vacuum is ideal for cleaning many homes but is a particularly smart choice for allergy and asthma sufferers. The HEPA filter captures 99.9 percent of dust, debris, and dirt. A sealed bag also prevents accidental exposure to dust and allergens during the cleaning process, which can sometimes happen when emptying a dirt cup.
This vacuum cleans all types of flooring, whether it’s carpet, hardwood, or tile—just switch the mode with the click of a button. The bright LED headlights make it easy to see even the smallest bits of debris. The large 13-inch cleaning head makes cleaning the whole house easy and fast, although it may be too large to fit into smaller or tight areas such as between the toilet and the wall.
Get the Hoover ONEPWR HEPA electric broom at Amazon, Hoover, The Home Depot, or Walmart.
Cordless electric brooms don’t have to be expensive to get the job done. Bissell’s electric broom is a fraction of the cost of other brands while still vacuuming dry messes from hard floors and low-pile carpets. Its affordability comes from an efficient design that focuses on effectively cleaning everyday dirt, dust, and dry messes. A 5-pound weight and a consistent suction power saves the battery and provides a runtime of 60 minutes.
A powered brush on the head loosens the dirt so it can be quickly suctioned into the dirt cup without having to go back and forth over the same area. The swivel function at the base of the shaft paired with the easy-glide rubber wheels helps to gently slide the electric broom into hard-to-reach places without much effort. The quiet operation of this electric broom is less likely to disturb or distract other people when it’s time to clean.
This electric boom is surprisingly impressive for the price. We were frankly astounded when it lifted deeply embedded pet hair from an area rug that had not been vacuumed in 5 days. It also picked up large pieces of dog kibble and was easy to maneuver into tight kitchen corners.
The only place the Bissell Perfect Sweep TURBO fell slightly short was picking up the flour in the grout line of the tile flooring. Still, this is an excellent option for anyone with a tight budget.
Get the Bissell electric broom on Amazon.
Dyson is the true gold standard for vacuum cleaners. Nothing cleans quite like a Dyson and the brand’s newest model, the Outsize Absolute+ Vacuum is no exception.
This electric broom has three modes: Eco, Auto, and Boost. It can run in Eco-Mode for up to 120 minutes, and it comes with an extra battery and charger. So, those who prefer to clean most of their homes in Boost Mode will still be covered. Because the dust bin has a generous capacity of 0.5 gallon, there’s no need to stop and empty it.
While this model is one of the most expensive on the market, Dyson makes it worth the price by including a plethora of accessories for handheld use such as a crevice tool, hair screw tool, combination tool, stubborn dirt brush, mini soft dusting brush, and wand clip.
The Outsize Absolute+ Vacuum also comes with two cleaning heads. The Laser Slim Fluffy Cleaning Head is capable of picking up microscopic dust on hard flooring. The High Torque XL Cleaning head works on all surfaces including carpeting.
Get the Dyson electric broom at Dyson.
Hoover’s electric broom saves users time and energy from repeatedly emptying the dustbin when sweeping large areas. Featuring a dirt cup that boasts three times the capacity of typical electric brooms, this cordless model sucks up debris without interruption, making this a smart choice for larger homes and busy people.
Use it on low-pile carpet or hard floors, and the super-strong suction will efficiently remove both embedded and surface dirt and debris, minimizing the need to repeatedly go over the same area. For different types of flooring, optimize the cleaning performance by adjusting the settings for the most effective suction power.
This electric broom weighs just under 9 pounds. Quickly glide through several rooms with advanced swivel steering, high-speed airflow, and a multi-cyclonic filtration system. Plus, the removable antimicrobial brush roll helps prevent odors and picks up surface debris in 50 percent fewer passes for a faster clean. Though the removable battery offers just 35 minutes of runtime, the efficient cleaning power of this electric broom means it requires less time to cover more space.
One of the most comfortable vacuums to use and maneuver, the ONEPWR Evolve Pet Cordless Upright Vacuum feels light yet powerful, particularly in Carpet Mode. It’s easy to hear and feel the difference. Just keep in mind that the suction and brush roll could be too strong for very delicate area rugs.
Get the Hoover ONEPWR Evolve electric broom at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, Target, Best Buy, or Hoover.
Keeping hardwood floors clean can be a cinch with Orfeld’s cordless electric broom. When a mess happens, take the broom from the wall-mounted charging dock and get to work. This model weighs 4.5 pounds, requiring little effort to push around. Plus, unlike some other hardwood vacuums, this electric broom is very quiet.
The lightweight nature of this broom, combined with easy maneuverability and powerful suction, means dirt and dust don’t stand a chance—and they can’t hide either, thanks to the LED headlight. The four-stage HEPA filtration system captures 99.97 percent of fine dust and particles as small as 0.1 micron, leaving air cleaner. Keeping the filter clean ensures the suction performs at its best.
This versatile electric broom isn’t only for hardwood. It can be used on other flooring types or converted to a handheld vacuum with an extended wand for cleaning crevices, curtains, ceilings, and other hard-to-reach areas. The battery offers up to 30 minutes of fade-free strong suction, which should be sufficient for many homes.
For homes with multiple floors, the Orfeld Stick Vacuum is super light to carry up the stairs. However, with a dustbin capacity of just 0.5 liter, this isn’t the best choice for extremely dirty homes. Still, the turbo mode makes it easy to pick up those really bad messes that can happen on occasion.
Get the Orfeld electric broom on Amazon or Walmart.
Battery life can be frustrating for cordless vacuum users, but that’s not a problem with the Shark Vertex Pro Vacuum. Shark’s electric broom holds a charge for 60 minutes in Eco-Mode. But if your home needs a little more power, there’s no need to worry because the battery works for up to 20 minutes in Boost Mode, giving you enough time to clean everything from cooking messes to high-traffic areas.
The LED user interface makes it simple to change cleaning modes, ensuring the best suction for the circumstance. The slender design and low profile help the broom to effortlessly slip under and around furniture and into smaller areas.
This electric broom addresses an issue with many brush rolls: Its brush roll is made of flexible silicone fins instead of bristles to dig deep into carpets while preventing hair from becoming trapped. So this is a particularly good choice for homes with area rugs, which could become damaged by harsh bristles.
Hardwood and tile floor owners may also be impressed with this model’s LED headlights, which make it easy to see even the tiniest bits of dust. In terms of accessories, the Shark doesn’t disappoint. It comes with a crevice tool, pet multi-tool, and anti-allergen dusting brush. So, it’s a smart choice for pet owners.
Get the Shark electric broom at Amazon, Target, Lowe’s, or Best Buy.
Messes like spilled food are often a part of life, which is why a handheld vacuum can be a good tool to keep in the kitchen. It can certainly be a more convenient and quicker choice than converting a larger stick to a handheld and using a crevice tool.
The Hoover ONEPWR Cordless Hand Vacuum has powerful suction. As we vacuumed up breadcrumbs and dog kibble, we could really feel the strength of the motor. It sucked up the entire mess in one try. Better yet, because there is an extra-large dirt bin, it’s possible to use it several times before needing to empty it.
This handheld vacuum includes a charger and two batteries that easily swap out so you never need to worry about running out of power.
Get the Hoover handheld electric broom at Amazon, Ace Hardware, Target, or Walmart.
Hoover ONEPWR Blade MAX Cordless Stick Vacuum
We also tested the ONEPWR Blade MAX Cordless Stick Vacuum. While this vacuum picked up small particles well, there were two major problems. It took more than five tries to pick up large particles on both hard flooring and carpet.
The other issue we encountered is that it was the most uncomfortable model to use. Even after a few minutes of cleaning, our backs were tired and our hands hurt. It also required a different head for carpet and hard floors, so it potentially would need to be changed multiple times to clean an entire home.
The Eureka NEC 180 RapidClean Pro is the best overall pick for most typical households because it’s powerful, transforms into a handheld, and comes with accessories, all at a great price. On the other hand, the Hoover ONEPWR HEPA Cordless Bagged Upright Vacuum is another great option as it performs well and has features ideal for allergy and asthma sufferers.
We tested each vacuum on this list based on a variety of criteria in a home with two shedding dogs and two adult occupants with a variety of floor types including hard floors, tile, carpet, and a delicate area rug. There were several days of debris already on the floor but we also used flour, powdered drink mix, breadcrumbs, and kibble to see how well each vacuum picked up both small and large debris. After undergoing each test, we rated how well it performed on a scale from 0 to 4.
Among other considerations, factors that went into our rankings included battery life, price, maneuverability, and features such as additional accessories and number of modes.
The best electric broom makes it easier to keep a home tidy and clean up little messes without the hassle of using a traditional vacuum. Electric brooms may seem straightforward to use or choose; however, you might want to ask a few questions before investing in one. Check out the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about electric brooms before making a decision.
Most electric brooms have filters that help prevent dirt and dust particles from being expelled into the air.
Some electric brooms feature a design and suction capability that is powerful enough to lift pet hair from carpets and other areas of the home, such as upholstery. If this is an important feature, look for electric brooms that are specifically intended for pet hair.
Power comes from quality design, craftsmanship, and engineering. One of the most powerful cordless vacuum cleaners is the Dyson Outsize Absolute+ Vacuum. It uses technology for a powerful suction that works on all floor types.
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