The differences between a canister vacuum and stick vacuum
Pros and cons
Traditional vacuum
A canister vacuum cleaner is the most traditional vacuum. The vacuum has a cord and only works if it's plugged in. Dust ends up in a dust bag or dust collector. This depends on whether you buy a vacuum with a bag or without a bag.
- Large collection capacity
- No time limit
- Larger surfaces
- Restricted to power outlet
- Higher energy consumption
- Heavier weight
Stick vacuum
A stick vacuum is a vacuum without cord. This means that the vacuum cleaner works on a battery, which you have to recharge regularly. The battery life is different for each stick vacuum. Dust ends up in a dust collector that you empty regularly.
- Cordless
- Easy to grab
- Option for handheld vacuum
- Limited battery life
- Smaller dust collector
Canister vacuum vs stick vacuum
| Canister vacuum | Stick vacuum | |
|---|---|---|
| Large vacuum cleaning jobs | Yes | Yes, depending on the battery life |
| Small vacuum cleaning jobs | Yes | Yes |
| Vacuum cleaner bag required | Sometimes | No |
| Viable | No | Yes |
| Portable | No | Yes |
| Store in a compact way | No | Yes |
| Collection capacity | Large | Small |
Does a stick vacuum replace your canister vacuum?
Nowadays, stick vacuums are just as efficient as canister vacuums. Thanks to the compact size and light weight, you'd grab your stick vacuum sooner than a canister vacuum. And you can easily turn it onto a handheld vacuum. This allows you to vacuum crumbs on the table every morning after breakfast. The advantage is that you don't need vacuum cleaner bags for your stick vacuum. Simply empty it in the trash can and charge it.
Conclusion
Keep your usage situation in mind when you choose either a canister vacuum or stick vacuum. Do you have a large surface to clean and do you not want to be limited by a battery life? In this case, a canister vacuum is a good choice thanks to its power cord. Do you want your vacuuming job to be as easy as possible? Choose a stick vacuum. Thanks to the maneuverability, the compact size, and the light weight of a stick vacuum, cleaning doesn't take as much effort.
