10 Best Backpack Vacuums: Reviewed, Rated & Compared
Best Cordless Option
This GV vacuum only wieghs 18 lbs, has 4 stage filtration and has a 8 quart capacity.
Best Commercial Option
This ProTeam vacuum comes with a 7 piece kit, 4 stage filtration and has a 10 quart capacity
Best Budget Option
This Hoover vacuum comes with a 7 piece kit, is lightweight at 9.2 lbs and has a 6.4 quart capacity
A quality backpack vacuum will save you time and money. These top-rated commercial backpack vacuums are a great choice for work or home use.
Although popular in many areas of the world, backpack vacuums are still trying to make a way for themselves in the United States, where most users still utilize an upright vacuum.
Perhaps not for long, though. With technology changing daily, vacuum backpacks are becoming more comfortable and easier to handle.
According to the ISSA, backpack vacuums are even more efficient at cleaning than the standard versions, and their ergonomic designs are proven to make cleaning professionals more proficient at their jobs. In this article, we’ll look at backpack vacuums for both work and home use.
Backpack Vacuums Compared
Image | Model | Weight | Power | Check Price |
---|---|---|---|---|
ProTeam | 11 Pounds | 1188 Watts / 150 CFM / 120V | ||
GV 8 Qt | 18 Pounds With Battery Installed | 80 CFM / 120V | ||
Hoover Commercial | 9.2 Pounds | 1,000 Watts / 150 CFM | ||
NaceCare RSV130 | 10.8 Pounds | 1,200 Watts / 114 CFM | ||
Sanitaire EURSC412B | 11.5 Pounds | 1,400 Watts / 11.5 Amps | ||
ProTeam Super HalfVac | 10.5 Pounds | 1,050 Watts / 150 CFM | ||
Powr-Flite BP6S Comfort Pro | 12 Pounds | 1,100 Watts / 130 CFM | ||
Atrix VACBP1 | 10.3 Pounds | 1,400 Watts + 106 CFM | ||
Koblenz BP-1400 Commercial | 11 Pounds | 11 Pounds | ||
Atrix Bug-Sucker | 10 Pounds | 1400 Watts / 110V |
Advantages Over Regular Vacuums
Comfort
One of the main reasons that people end up hiring someone to vacuum for them is that they cannot comfortably do it themselves. Traditional vacuums are heavy and put a lot of stress on the user’s arms.
The ergonomic design of backpack vacuums puts nearly all the weight of the unit on a person’s hips and legs, making it easier to move around more freely.
Fast at Covering Larger Areas
Backpack vacuums are proven to help you cover more space in less time.
This productivity study by the backpack brand ProTeam shows us that while using a backpack vacuum, users were able to cover twice as much space in half the time, even while using less overall energy. For people cleaning large homes or businesses, this time-saver is a must.
Maneuverability
When it comes down to it, backpack vacuums are really all about maneuverability.
Because the user is wearing the unit on their back, their motion from side-to-side becomes freer, allowing them to move in any direction. The smaller vacuum heads allow the user to reach areas both high and low in an easy manner.
Lower Costs
Twenty years ago it may have been too costly for the average home user to have a backpack vacuum, but the growing industry and advancements in technology have made backpack vacuums quite affordable to anyone who wishes to have one.
In fact, in many cases, backpack vacuums are becoming even more affordable than their upright counterparts.
What To Look For In a Good Backpack Vacuum
Weight
When choosing a backpack vacuum it will be important to consider the weight of the product itself so that you are comfortable when wearing it.
Most of the models we look at in this article weigh an average of 10 to 11 pounds, which is standard, but battery-powered options weigh considerably more (around 18 pounds) because of the weight of the battery itself. When thinking about the amount of stress a unit can put on your body frame, this is an important factor to consider.
Another online resource wrote here about lightweight vacuums.
Power
In terms of power on a backpack vacuum cleaner, watts are a measure of how much energy is put out per second. The higher the wattage, the more power the vacuum will put out, but this also coincides with how much energy the unit uses to function in the first place.
In general, most of the models we look at have similar outputs with an average of 1,200 watts. We also looked at CFM, which is cubic foot per minute.
Noise Levels (dba)
Noise levels are measured in dba, which is a-weighted decibels. The lower the number, the quiet the machine is measured to be.
The models we looked at in this article range from 62 dba to 72 dba, which put them all in a relatively similar noise category and is standard for vacuum cleaners.
Quality Straps
You will see that we took the time to look at the straps and harnesses of each backpack vacuum cleaner to see how comfortable they are.
Some models have very basic straps, whereas others have complete harnesses with hip belts and extra support for long-term wear and maximum comfort.
Power Cord Length
The standard length of power cords on backpack vacuums is about 50 feet, and most of the corded vacuums we review in this article follow that standard.
However, it’s always best to check, because certain models like this Atrix vacuum we looked at only come with a 2-foot power cord, requiring the user to supply their own extension cord.
Bag Storage Size
How much debris each backpack vacuum cleaner can hold is usually measured in quarts, sometimes gallons.
The average backpack vacuum cleaner holds 6 quarts of dust. Some of the larger models we looked at can hold up to 10 quarts. The amount a vacuum can hold will also affect how heavy the unit will become when it’s full.
Filters
On all of the product descriptions of the vacuums we look at in this article, you’ll see the term HEPA filter used over and over.
HEPA stands for high-efficiency particle absorber, and based on standards set by the United States Department of Energy this means that the product will collect 99.97% of particles greater than or equal to 0.3 micrometers.
Extra Accessories
Virtually all vacuum cleaners come with different attachments for different cleaning uses. Based on your personal needs, you can find attachments for reaching up high, cleaning carpet vs hardwoods, detailing pieces, etc.
Some of the vacuums we look at have additional accessories that can be purchased separately. When purchasing your vacuum, you’ll want to make sure that it comes with an initial debris bag to get you started right away.
Warranty
Fortunately the majority of all vacuum cleaners come with a limited warranty, and all of the products that we looked at in this article are covered for at least one year from the time of purchase.
For more information on what the warranty will cover and not cover, it’s best to consult the owner’s manual or customer service with the company directly.
10 Best Backpack Vacuums Reviewed
1. ProTeam Backpack Vacuums
Quick Look - Bag Features
The Super CoachVac by ProTeam is the best commercial backpack vacuum on the market today. Its ergonomic design is custom-built for long-term use and will guarantee your comfortability while using this product.
This vacuum is not only super-efficient with its mega-suction (it will pick up area rugs if you aren’t standing on them), but it also promises a super healthy environment as well.
I love that ProTeam has partnered with the American Lung Association to create a four-level filtration system to clean up dust mites, allergens and germs. Using this vacuum improves the air quality of a room and you will be able to tell the difference.
For those of us with pets, you will easily find that this is also the best backpack vacuum for pet hair clean-up.
The telescoping wand that the unit comes with is great for reaching areas that are high and for using on blinds and window sills. Amazon also offers a residential home cleaning kit that includes a few extra attachments for other areas like under appliances.
At only 11 pounds, this backpack vacuum is practically lighter than a school book-bag. It comes with a 3-year or 1400-hour warranty from the company.
Why we liked this vacuum
ProTeam is a trusted brand in high-quality backpack vacuums, and they have really taken the time to include all the features that make it the best commercial backpack vacuum cleaner.
2. GV 8 Qt Quart Cordless Battery Powered Backpack
Quick Look - Bag Features
This backpack vacuum by GV has so many attachments and add-ons that it will definitely help with any vacuuming job you would ever have! I’m seriously impressed with the amount of detail that went into designing this machine.
Perhaps even better yet is that it’s cordless, so you don’t have to worry about going too far from an outlet or tripping over the extension cord.
The battery completely charges fairly quickly in about two hours, and then the vacuum itself can be used for about 45 minutes to an hour. For larger jobs, I’d highly recommend purchasing a backup battery to ensure that you have enough life in the vacuum to get the entire job done.
The only downside with that is that replacement batteries are expensive and often hard to find other than directly from the manufacturer.
This cordless backpack vacuum comes with a two-year warranty from the company. It’s by far the best cordless backpack vacuum.
Why we liked this vacuum
If you’re looking for a battery powered, cordless vacuum, this model will get the job done with a variety of different attachments that are included.
3. Hoover Commercial Lightweight Backpack Vacuum
Quick Look - Bag Features
This bagless backpack vacuum by Hoover looks a little bulky at first glance, but it’s super lightweight at just over 9 pounds. While wearing the harness and hip belt you’ll hardly notice that you’re wearing a vacuum at all.
My favorite feature of this vacuum is the clear dome lid, which makes this model the best bagless backpack vacuum. It allows you to immediately inspect the canister to see how full it is and if it needs to be emptied without opening the body and getting dust and debris everywhere (a problem I’ve obviously faced in the past).
I’ve owned several Hoover vacuums and have been happy with them all. Their two-year warranty is a nice security measure to have since vacuums are something we don’t want to be replacing every two seconds.
Why we liked this vacuum
We love the easy bagless option this Hoover provides, including a clear dome lid that makes checking the contents easy.
4. NaceCare RSV130 Back Pack Vacuum
Quick Look - Bag Features
The NaceCare RSV130 seems a little boxy and awkward at first, but this compact backpack vacuum can do a lot of work in a little time, making it the best backpack vacuum for home use.
It doesn’t hold quite as much as some of the other backpack vacuums that we’ve looked at, so it would probably be ideal for home use rather than a job where you’d constantly need to empty the canister.
I appreciate that this vacuum works either with or without a bag. I usually prefer to use a bag, but every once in a while I will run out and it’s nice to know that I’ll still be able to use the vacuum in the meantime.
The NaceCare brand is known for vacuums that will last a long time without any problems, and their 5-year warranty will back that up.
Why we liked this vacuum
The NaceCare RSV130 is a slightly smaller version of some of the other commercial backpack vacuums on the market and can be comfortable for almost any body frame.
5. Sanitaire EURSC412B Quiet Clean Backpack Vacuum
Quick Look - Bag Features
The Sanitaire EURSC412B is a great option if you’re looking for a really affordable backpack vacuum cleaner. It is, generally, about $50-$100 cheaper than some of the other models we’ve looked at, and might be considered a great starter backpack vacuum.
My favorite feature of this vacuum is that it comes with a washable, reusable vacuum bag that can be emptied and cleaned between uses. However, it also fits disposable bags for faster clean-up, or if you’re vacuuming up something particular gross. I also appreciate that the canister has a nice, sturdy handle at the top for easy transportation from place to place.
Some users have noted that the attachments for this vacuum are more difficult to put on and take off, but with regular use, the task becomes much easier. The unit comes with a 1-year warranty from the manufacturer if it doesn’t completely satisfy your needs.
Why we liked this vacuum
The Sanitaire EURSC412B is an affordable option for an industrial-strength backpack vacuum cleaner.
6. ProTeam Backpack Vacuums, Super HalfVac
Quick Look - Bag Features
The compact size of this ProTeam Super HalfVac is about half the size of regular backpack vacuums. Don’t let the size fool you though. Even though it is smaller, we have found that the weight of the backpack itself is generally about the same as the other models we’ve reviewed.
Unlike some of the other backpacks, this unit has a harness that makes it sit much lower on your back, and it’s described as a “hip-vac.” Many people have found that this version is very comfortable, but if you have neck or back problems the more traditional style harness may suit you better.
Overall, the ProTeam brand provides units that I know I can trust, and I love that they provide a 3-year warranty on their products.
Why we liked this vacuum
We love that this ProTeam backpack offers a more compact version of a vacuum that we already know and trust.
7. Powr-Flite BP6S Comfort Pro Backpack Vacuum
Quick Look - Bag Features
The Powr-Flite BP6S Comfort Pro is one of the most comfortable backpack vacuums on the market. Not only did they “built a better backpack” as their slogan so confidently states, but they worked with Deuter, a hiking backpack company with 115 years experience, to create a truly comfortable harness that you won’t mind wearing long term.
There are 7 different points of adjustment on the backpack, which means that you’ll be able to attain a completely custom fit (and you probably won’t want anyone else touching your vacuum once achieved!)
The canister itself looks pretty bulky at first, but it’s surprisingly comfortable and the weight is well distributed. The product is backed by a one-year warranty.a
Why we liked this vacuum
This Powr-Flite backpack is easily the most comfortable backpack vacuum on the market today!
8. Atrix - VACBP1 HEPA Backpack Vacuum
Quick Look - Bag Features
The Atrix VACBP1 is the cheapest of all the vacuums we’ve looked at in this article, but that doesn’t mean that it’s cheaply made. The price difference is almost certainly made up by the fact that this vacuum only has a 2-foot built in power cord and that you’ll need to purchase an extension cord of your desired length in order for this backpack vacuum to work at all.
For some people, this fact is a huge deterrent, but most people highly approve as they can get the extension cord that is best suited to their needs and no more or no less. My favorite feature is that the belt holster on this model has holders for all of the attachments, which makes changing them out quick and easy.
This Atrix model comes with a one year warranty from the manufacturer.
Why we liked this vacuum
For the price, this Atrix backpack is the most affordable way to get tough jobs done, and by adding your own extension cord it is made custom to your needs.
9. Koblenz BP-1400 Commercial Grade Backpack Vacuum Cleaner - Corded
Quick Look - Bag Features
The Koblenz BP-1400 is the best backpack vacuum for hardwood floors. The attachments that it comes with are ideal for cleaning on hardwoods and carpets will low-pill, but users have mentioned that deeper carpets do better with other brands or with upright vacuum cleaners.
I love that this model has a carrying handle for transportation. However, the harness for backpack wear is known to be one of the least comfortable on the markets.
If you’ll be using the vacuum for a short period of time it should be fine, but long-term users have reported the thick plastic-like straps digging into their shoulders over time. It comes with a one year warranty from the manufacturer.a
Why we liked this vacuum
The Koblenz BP-1400 is gentle and efficient on hardwood floors and can hold up to 6 quarts of debris.
10. Atrix Bug-Sucker HEPA Backpack Vacuum
Quick Look - Bag Features
It’s not your typical backpack vacuum cleaner, but it was designed for a specific use in mind and it’s extremely proficient at its job of cleaning bed bugs. We highly recommend the Atrix Bug-Sucker for any hotel, hospital, camp, or any other area with a lot of beds and a lot of traffic.
Bed bugs aren’t something that people really want to think about, but unfortunately, they are a reality and I’m so thankful for products like this Atrix backpack vacuum that will remedy the problem. It also comes with a 12-month warranty from the manufacturer.
The best feature of this vacuum is its magnificent suction power. Sucking up bugs is a great alternative to using harsh chemical powders or sprays and just as effective.
In fact, this vacuum does such a supreme suction job with it’s HEPA filters, that many users have begun using this backpack vacuum for other jobs, like car detailing.
Why we liked this vacuum
We love products that successfully do the job that they’re designed to do, and this Atrix Bug-Sucker is no exception. While designed to specifically target bed bugs, this machine is also great for getting any creepy crawler that sneaks into your home or business.
Types Of Backpack Vacuums
When it comes to backpack vacuum cleaners, most people tend to think of them as used in large, commercial scenarios like schools and office buildings. This is relatively true, but thanks to the increase in technology, function and ergonomic design vacuum backpacks are becoming more popular for home use as well.
Especially in a day and age in which we appreciate getting things done as quickly as possible, backpack vacuums help speed up our cleaning time and make us much more efficient, especially on areas that are tougher to reach with a standard vacuum, like stairs.
The most common time of backpack vacuum is a corded electric version, much like your standard vacuum probably utilizes. These vacuums are efficient in covering a large space and are easily moved to other outlets as needed.
More recent to the market are battery powered backpacks. These backpacks run on a large 40V rechargeable battery for about 45 minutes of uninterrupted use.
What Do Backpack Vacuums Clean Well?
Carpet
Backpack Vacuums are ideal for cleaning carpets in hard to reach areas, like stairways, under furniture and appliances, and along the walls. Because you’re not moving the entire unit along the floor, you’ll have a better idea of what area is being covered and less likely to miss portions.
Hardwood Floors
People with hardwood floors should consider using a backpack vacuum over traditional vacuums. While most standard vacuums do have a hardwood-floor setting, the large units and wheels are not ideal and could scratch or scuff the floors over time. Using a backpack vacuum will help ensure the life of your hardwood floors.
Pet Hair
Many pet owners can attest that only handheld or backpack vacuums seem to do anything about the abundance of pet hair in their homes. Why is this? One reason is likely that because the vacuum is on our backs we can better see the hairy situation in front of us.
Another reason is that the smaller heads of backpack vacuums allow us to move in ways that a traditional vacuum does not. By applying more pressure on the head, you’ll suction more deeply into an area with a lot of pet hair, and you’ll also be able to maneuver more easily in areas where carpet meets the wall, etc.
Stairs, Walls, & Ceilings
Because of their ergonomic design, backpack vacuums are designed in a way that allows the user to move around freely. Wearing a backpack vacuum will make especially difficult tasks like cleaning the stairs, walls and ceilings much easier.
Many of the backpacks we look at in this article have extra attachments for these hard-to-reach places.
Bagged & Bagless Options Explained
When it comes down to deciding whether to purchase a bagged vacuum or a bagless vacuum, there are pros and cons to both. No one option is better than the other and it really depends on your personal preferences. Let me break down my thoughts for you:
Bagged vacuums are usually designed to hold more debris than bagless options. They’re recommended for allergy and asthma sufferers because you’ll have much less contact with the actual dust and debris when you’re changing out your bags.
The downside to bagged vacuum cleaners is that you’ll continuously have to purchase more bags (which depending on how often you use your unit can become quite costly), and oftentimes as the bag gets full you can tell a marked difference in vacuum performance. These bags are normally nonrecyclable, creating waste which is avoided if you use a bagless vacuum.
Bagless vacuums often require more filters in the unit to compensate for the lack of bag, and these filters will need replacing after some time. They can also be messier to clean out. On the other hand, though, you’ll save money by not purchasing bags and some bagless units allow you to physically see how much debris is inside without opening the canister.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Are these vacuums risking my health?
Quite the contrary. These vacuums are helping to ensure your health by cleaning the floors and air around you. Many of the vacuums discussed in this article are accredited by the CRI (Carpet and Rug Institue), and some even have a partnership with the American Lung Association to ensure the best possible product for your health.
Can I buy more than one online for my cleaning business?
Yes. These backpack vacuum cleaners are highly recommended for efficient commercial use.
What is the price range of these models?
The models discussed in this article range from a couple hundred dollars to around a thousand dollars.
Can I use a commercial vac in my home?
Yes. Depending on your needs, a commercial vacuum might be recommended for your home.
Where is a good place to buy commercial backpack vacuums?
There’s a wide variety of commercial backpack vacuums, as well as research and reviews, available on Amazon.
Conclusion
Backpack vacuum cleaners are a great option for cleaning up in a fast, efficient, and ergonomically friendly way. Unfortunately, in the US backpack vacuum cleaners are often overlooked as an option, but thanks to new technologies and advancements within the industry are growing in popularity.
The best backpack vacuum cleaner that we’ve found on the market is the ProTeam Super CoachVac, but take a look at all the options we’ve posted and I’m sure you’ll find the best backpack vacuum cleaner for your needs.