Eureka RapidClean Pro NEC280TL vs Milwaukee M12 Compact Vacuum (Bare Tool)

Quick take: The Eureka RapidClean Pro NEC280TL costs $24 less; the Eureka RapidClean Pro NEC280TL runs longer per charge (40 vs 29 min).

SpecEureka RapidClean Pro NEC280TLMilwaukee M12 Compact Vacuum (Bare Tool)
Price~$135~$159
TypeHandheldHandheld
Suction250 W33 CFM
Battery40 min29 min
Navigation
Filtration5-stage filtration systemHEPA
CordlessYesYes
BaggedNoNo
Noise78 dB
Dustbin0.6 LNot disclosed
Water tank
Self-empty dockNoNo
Auto mop washingNoNo
Hot water washingNoNo
Obstacle avoidanceNoNo
Carpet detectionNoNo
Auto mop liftingNoNo
Multi-floor mappingNoNo
App controlNoNo
Dimensions9.8 x 6.3 x 43.3 in
Weight5.1 lbs
Warranty2 years5 years

Pros & cons

Eureka RapidClean Pro NEC280TL

  • Genuinely light at 5.1 lbs for one-handed use
  • 40-minute runtime is long for a cordless handheld
  • 3 power modes and an LED headlight on the brush
  • One-click dust cup emptying
  • Includes a floor nozzle so it doubles as a light stick vacuum
  • 2-year warranty
  • Small 0.6L bin needs frequent emptying
  • 5-stage filtration isn't HEPA-rated
  • List price ($150) is high for a handheld — shop for the regular discounts
  • 78 dB is fairly loud at close range

Milwaukee M12 Compact Vacuum (Bare Tool)

  • 33 CFM motor rated for construction debris like wood chips and metal shavings
  • HEPA filter cartridge, uncommon at this size and price
  • 5-year warranty, longer than most consumer handhelds
  • Includes a utility nozzle, crevice tool, and extension wand
  • Runs on the same M12 batteries as Milwaukee's drills, drivers, and other tools
  • Up to 29-minute runtime on the largest compatible battery
  • Bare tool — no battery or charger included, and M12 batteries are not cheap
  • No published dustbin capacity, weight, or noise level
  • No motorized brush — not built for pet hair or upholstery work
  • Bare-tool price ($159) is high before adding a battery and charger for non-M12 owners