Aiming to gain insights into customer satisfaction, the poll found that on/off buttons or switches were on the high priority list for those on the hunt for one of the best vacuum cleaners for home (opens in new tab), despite new models from cleaning giants Dyson and Shark showcasing triggers in recent months.

What’s wrong with trigger vacuums? 

The survey found that one of the principal complaints about trigger-heavy vacuums is that they create unnecessary discomfort for those who suffer from dexterity issues, such as arthritis. It was also reported that many users have even begun to create makeshift solutions for holding the trigger down permanently, including using tape or installing additional attachments.  If this is the case, then what is the incentive for the rise of trigger-operated vacuums? Well, according a titan of the vacuum world, Dyson, it’s all about conserving battery life. Using triggers, rather than an on/off system, means that its cordless and handheld vacuums (opens in new tab) can be operated for longer, rather than wasting energy in the in-between stages of cleaning. This was a pivotal element of its new industry-leading vacuum, the V15 Detect (opens in new tab), which not only has phenomenal suction power but can run for up to an hour, a significant improvement on previous models.  Despite being somewhat irritating to operate, extended battery life could be evidence that trigger-happy vacuums are actually a more sustainable choice for the environment, as they cut down on charging time and conserve electricity. Combine this with the fact that triggers are often found in cordless devices, which tend to swap out disposable waste bags for washable dust bins, and there may still be convincing arguments for this kind of model’s popularity yet. With all that in mind, the question of whether vacuums should be produced with or without triggers is still up for debate. While it looks as if leading brands will carry on including them as part of their cordless designs, it’s up to personal preference if you want to use one to clean your home. For a truly hands-free cleaning experience, check out our guide to the best robot vacuums (opens in new tab), which can take the weight off altogether.

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