I was a vacuum reviewer for two years — these are the 6 sub-£250 models I'd recommend in a heartbeat

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I was a vacuum reviewer for two years — these are the 6 sub-£250 models I'd recommend in a heartbeat Features By Ruth Hamilton published 11 April 2026

Happy spring cleaning!

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Vacuuming isn't especially fun, and having to shell out your hard-earned cash for a vacuum cleaner might be even more painful. I was in charge of TechRadar's vacuum cleaner coverage for two full years, during which time I tested out all kinds of vacuums at all kinds of prices. I've put together this article to help out anyone who's in need of a new vacuum for their spring cleaning kick, but doesn't want to pay over the over the odds for it.

Most of these picks come in just under £250 (although deals crop up on all of these models fairly regularly), which is generally enough to get you a very capable cleaner. My top recommendation is probably the Dreame R20, which is perhaps the best cordless vacuum cleaner I've tested all-round, serving up good vacuuming, a lightweight build and some advanced special features for that affordable price.

I'm also a big fan of the Dyson V8 Cyclone; a refreshed version of the iconic V8. It's relatively basic in features, but really shines when it comes to outright cleaning clout — this is the option I'd recommend to owners of shedding pets.

A wild card is the Shark Freestyle Max. It's unusual in that it's an upright model, but it's cordless. On test it delivered nimble maneuvering and superb suction — albeit over very short runtimes. It's the cheapest of the bunch, at around £100. Happy spring cleaning!

My favorite cheap vacuums — UK

DysonV8 CycloneSG$99shop now

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Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsorsBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over. TOPICS Shark Dyson Ruth HamiltonSocial Links NavigationCollections Editor

Ruth is TechRadar's Collections Editor, responsible for masterminding TechRadar's approach towards the new Collections format — a themed, curated selection of product recommendations designed to provide readers with an exciting new way to shop for the very best new gadgets and gizmos.

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