Are Affordable Dyson Alternatives Worth Buying? Or Should You Get The Real Thing?

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When you set out to buy a new vacuum, the options are almost limitless. Not only are there dozens of brands to consider, but just as many models to sort through. Decision paralysis might have you automatically considering one of the most trusted names in the world of vacuums: Dyson. Known for their powerful suction, easy maneuverability, and innovative features, Dyson vacuums may absolutely be worth buying, depending on the features you're looking for. But since these vacuums cost a pretty penny, opting for a Dyson alternative could be your cost-saving solution if the higher price tag isn't in your budget.

To find out if a more affordable Dyson alternative is worth buying, it's important to know exactly what you're looking for in a vacuum. Failing to consider the features most needed is one of the mistakes everyone makes when buying vacuum cleaners. Do you value a cordless vacuum with easy maneuverability, or are you looking for a corded model with a HEPA filter? Other features to consider include the number and type of attachments, whether a vacuum has a built-in LED light to illuminate dust, battery run times for cordless models, and suction modes.

Before determining whether a Dyson or an alternative is the better fit for your needs, let's cover the basic features of one of Dyson's current best-selling vacuums, the Dyson V12 Detect Slim. This model weighs only 5.2 pounds, features multiple cleaning heads and attachments, three suction modes, up to 60 minutes of battery life, and has a green headlight on its fluffy fiber-optic vacuum head that highlights otherwise invisible dust and hair. On Dyson's website, this model has a 4.6 out of 5-star rating with more than 21,000 reviews. "We've had the Dyson for about 3 weeks now. We love it. Cleans very well, is very portable and easy to use," says one reviewer. Still, with a full price tag of over $700, the cost may be hard for some to justify.

Among the other popular cordless models, most have similar features, including a lightweight design that makes them easily maneuverable and interchangeable attachments that convert the vacuum to a hand vac. The upright corded vacuums also offer easy maneuverability thanks to their ball design, but are not nearly as highly rated as the Dyson cordless models.

One of the most comparable vacuums we've found to Dyson's best-selling cordless models is the Shark PowerDetect. Also from a top-rated brand, this vacuum can pick up debris in forward and reverse, has a battery life of up to 70 minutes, integrated headlights, includes two attachments, and has a flexible wand that allows it to fit under furniture. It also has soft brush rolls that won't scratch delicate surfaces, which is a key factor to consider when buying a cordless vacuum for hardwood floors. An even more affordable model is the Levoit LVAC-300, which will run you less than $300. It features a headlight to illuminate dust, an anti-allergen filter, can run up to 60 minutes on a single charge, and comes with two attachments that convert it into a handheld vacuum. The reviews are also good, with a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from over 10,000 users. 

What about corded models? The Shark Power Detect Upright Vacuum is a solid alternative to a Dyson. It can detect hidden dirt and pet hair and adjust its suction accordingly. It also has a HEPA filter, which is the sort of vacuum cleaner you need if you have dust allergies. Plus, it works on all floor types. If you're not ready to take the plunge and commit to a Dyson, one of these three models may be the alternative that you need.