The best lightweight vacuum cleaners not only have to be lighter than your average vacuum, but also have outstanding suction and performance. There are a couple lightweight vacuums which should definitely be considered, but I think one really stands out as the overall best lightweight vacuum cleaner. Here are my top 3 picks:

Miele Neptune - This 11 lb canister vacuum is pricey, but it’s versatility and power easily make up for it. It’s light enough to take up and down stairs with ease. Also, the Neptune’s filtration system is one of the best on the market. I also have to mention that this machine is very quiet, compared to most competitors.

Oreck XL Series - The Oreck XL is consistently rated one of the best lightweight vacuum cleaners by users because of it’s powerful suction and light weight (only 8 lbs). The basic model comes with a 1 year warranty, while the new Oreck XL Platinum Pilot comes with a 10 year warranty, and weights 10 lbs. They are excellent machines, just a little pricey as well.

Simplicity Freedom - This lightweight vacuum cleaner is only 8 lbs. It has superb suction for such a little vacuum, and also features a HiFlow HEPA filtration system. It’s perfect for going up and down flights of stairs or just pulling around large rooms.

The best lightweight vacuum of these 3 top choices, in my opinion, is the Simplicity Freedom. It is definitely lightweight, and the suction is tremendous. It’s small enough to get into tight places as well. One thing I don’t like about Simplicity vacuums is that you have to buy from an authorized retailer, and they are not available for purchase online. I would definitely check into the other 2 lightweight vacuums if the Simplicity is not an option for you.