10 Best Vacuum Cleaners in UK (Dyson vs Shark vs Henry)
Discover the UK's top 10 vacuum cleaners, from Dyson's high-tech lasers to Henry's classic charm and Shark's pet-friendly power

Vacuum cleaners don't often get the spotlight, but in the UK, we've all got our favourites. For some, it's Henry the cheerful red workhorse. Others swear by Dyson's futuristic gadgets, while Shark has quietly built a reputation as the pet owner's hero. The truth? The best vacuum cleaner is the one that makes your daily clean less of a chore. Here are ten of the best, with a bit of personality thrown in.
Dyson V15 Detect: The Vacuum with a Laser
Yes, a laser. The Dyson V15 Detect actually shines a green beam across your floors so you can see every speck of dust. It also tells you, via its LCD screen, exactly how much dirt you've picked up. With 60 minutes of run time, this is the James Bond of vacuum cleaners, only with less tuxedo, more suction.
Shark Stratos Anti-Hair Wrap: Pet Hair's Worst Enemy
If you've got pets, you've got hair, everywhere. The Shark Stratos Anti-Hair Wrap is designed to untangle that mess before it clogs the rollers. Its DuoClean head shifts from carpet to hard floor without a fuss, and the flexible wand is a godsend for getting under the sofa. For families with furry friends, this one's a lifesaver.
Henry Hoover: Britain's Favourite Face
The Henry Hoover has been smiling at us since the 1980s, and he's still going strong. With a huge 9-litre capacity, Henry doesn't quit halfway through a clean. He's simple, durable, and far cheaper than his flashier rivals, usually costing under £150 ($185). No gimmicks, just good honest hoovering.
Dyson Gen5detect: The Beast of Suction
If you want the absolute top of the Dyson tree, the Gen5detect is it. With 262 air watts of suction and HEPA filtration that traps 99.99% of particles, it's a dream for allergy sufferers. At £849 ($1,050), it's not cheap, but if power is your priority, this is the one to beat.
Shark Cordless Detect Pro: High Tech Without the Price Shock
The Shark Cordless Detect Pro proves you don't need to spend Dyson money to get clever features. It runs for up to 60 minutes and automatically adjusts suction depending on how dirty the floor is. At under £400 ($490), it feels like a sweet spot between brains, brawn, and budget.
Henry Pet: The Animal Whisperer
Take Henry, add a turbo brush and a charcoal filter, and you've got the Henry Pet. It's built to handle hair, paw prints, and pet smells in one go. Think of it as the same old Henry, just with a superpower for animal lovers.
Dyson Omni-Glide: The Flat-Dweller's Friend
If you live in a flat or just want something feather-light, the Dyson Omni-Glide is your pal. At only 1.9kg, it feels more like sweeping than vacuuming, but with proper suction. Its 360-degree head slides under furniture like it's on roller skates. Small, sleek, and surprisingly fun to use.
Shark Upright Lift-Away: Old-School Power with a Twist
The Shark Upright Lift-Away is a proper upright cleaner, but with a twist, the canister detaches so you can carry it around. It's especially good on thick carpets, digging deep where cordless models sometimes struggle. If you like the feel of an upright but want modern flexibility, this is the answer.
Henry XL Plus: Built for Big Jobs
Need something tougher? The Henry XL Plus has a whopping 15-litre capacity. Yes, it's heavier at 8kg, but it's basically the SUV of vacuums. Big families, large houses, or anyone sick of emptying bags will love it.
Dyson V8 Absolute: Classic Dyson for Less
The Dyson V8 Absolute might not have the latest bells and whistles, but at around £350 ($430), it still delivers great suction and 40 minutes of run time. It's a fantastic way to get Dyson quality without the Gen5 price tag.
So, Which One Should You Buy?
If you want futuristic features and don't mind paying for them, Dyson is still king. Shark offers excellent value, especially for pet owners, and Henry remains the no-nonsense, budget-friendly choice for those who just want a vacuum that lasts forever.
The real trick is choosing the one that fits your lifestyle. Do you need a pet hair hero, a laser-equipped gadget, or a smiling classic that never lets you down? Whichever you pick, these ten vacuums prove there's never been a better time to clean up in style.
© Copyright IBTimes 2025. All rights reserved.