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Makita 18V LXT Compact Cordless Vacuum Alternatives: 6 Similar Picks Compared

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The makita xlc02zw 18v lxt lithium ion compact cordless vacuum offers a lightweight, bagless solution for dry debris. Weighing just 3 pounds, it provides up to 33 minutes of runtime on a 5.0Ah battery. Its compact design and cloth filtration system make it easy to maneuver and maintain. You get strong suction without the hassle of disposable bags.

However, you might need different capabilities. Some users require wet pickup, which this model does not offer. Others may need a larger dustbin or a different voltage system. This list includes 6 alternatives that share key specs with the Makita unit. We selected these picks because their power sources, weights, or filtration types overlap with the original. You can compare cordless wet/dry vacuums, upright models, and handheld options. Each choice addresses specific gaps in the Makita’s feature set. Review the specifications to find the tool that matches your exact cleaning needs.

Our top pick: Makita 18V LXT Compact Cordless Vacuum.

How these alternatives compare

Milwaukee 2-Gallon 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum

The Milwaukee 2-Gallon 18V Wet/Dry Vacuum handles both wet and dry messes, unlike the Makita which is dry-only. It uses a 2-gallon container and certified HEPA filtration for dust control. At 10.1 pounds, it is significantly heavier than the 3-pound Makita. Its dimensions are 18 by 10 by 13 inches, making it bulkier. You gain wet pickup capability and larger capacity but lose portability and lightweight ease. Choose this if you need a shop vacuum for mixed debris and already own Milwaukee 18V batteries.

Milwaukee 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Toolbox Vacuum

This Milwaukee 18V Wet/Dry Toolbox Vacuum also supports wet and dry cleaning, offering versatility the Makita lacks. It features a toolbox design for storage and transport. The weight is listed at 2.2 pounds, lighter than the Makita, though the overall dimensions are larger at 22.5 by 11.5 by 15.8 inches. It uses the same 18V battery platform. You trade the Makita’s compact handheld form for a more robust, multi-purpose tool. This option suits users who need a durable shop vacuum for garage or workshop tasks involving liquids.

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

The Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a corded, upright model, not a cordless handheld like the Makita. It weighs 16 pounds, much heavier than the 3-pound Makita. Its height is 26.8 inches, designed for floor cleaning rather than quick spot jobs. It includes HEPA filtration and is suitable for pet hair and carpets. You give up battery portability and compact storage for powerful, continuous suction on large floor areas. Pick this if you need a primary home vacuum for carpets and hard floors, not a secondary tool.

Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum

The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum is a corded upright unit weighing 12.5 pounds. It stands 44.5 inches tall, designed for deep carpet cleaning with a strong brush roll. Unlike the Makita’s compact, bagless design, this is a larger, stationary vacuum for whole-home use. It lacks battery operation but offers consistent power for pet hair removal. You lose the Makita’s lightweight portability and 33-minute runtime for a more powerful, corded solution. Choose this if your main goal is removing pet hair from carpets and hard floors without worrying about battery life.

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

The Shark UV725 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is another corded, upright option weighing 12 pounds. It is 45.6 inches tall, intended for deep carpet care and stair cleaning. It includes HEPA filtration for allergen control. Unlike the Makita’s 3-pound handheld form, this is a larger, stationary vacuum. You trade the Makita’s compactness and cordless freedom for powerful, continuous suction on large surfaces. This model suits homes where deep cleaning carpets and controlling allergens are priorities. It is not a replacement for a lightweight, portable tool for quick cleanups.

Shark WANDVAC Cordless Hand Vac

The Shark WANDVAC WV201 is a cordless handheld vacuum with a tiny 0.08-quart capacity. It weighs 2.09 pounds, slightly lighter than the Makita. Its small size makes it ideal for spot cleaning cars or upholstery. Unlike the Makita’s 2-stage cloth filtration and larger bin, this unit is for quick, small messes. You gain extreme portability but lose the ability to clean large floor areas or handle significant debris. Choose this if you need a dedicated tool for quick touch-ups and do not require a primary vacuum for whole-home cleaning.

Quick picks

#ProductBest forPrice
1 Makita 18V LXT Compact Cordless Vacuum Best overall Makita users needing a lightweight dry vacuum Check price of Makita 18V LXT Compact Cordless Vacuum on Amazon
2 Milwaukee 2-Gallon 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Also great wet and dry workshop cleanup tasks Check price of Milwaukee 2-Gallon 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum on Amazon
3 Milwaukee 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Toolbox Vacuum Also great Shop cleanup with existing Milwaukee batteries Check price of Milwaukee 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Toolbox Vacuum on Amazon
4 Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Best premium Pet owners needing versatile cleaning Check price of Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum on Amazon
5 Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum Also great Pet hair removal on mixed flooring Check price of Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum on Amazon
6 Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum pet hair removal and stair cleaning Check price of Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum on Amazon
7 Shark WANDVAC Cordless Hand Vac Best budget spot cleaning cars and upholstery Check price of Shark WANDVAC Cordless Hand Vac on Amazon

Our 7 picks

Best overall

Makita 18V LXT Compact Cordless Vacuum

Best for: Makita users needing a lightweight dry vacuum

Power Source
Cordless
Battery Voltage
18V
Runtime
Up to 33 minutes
Weight
3 pounds
Filtration Type
Cloth filtration
Bag Type
Bagless

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Compact Cordless Vacuum Affiliate link

The Makita XLC02ZW is a lightweight, cordless vacuum weighing just 3 pounds. It runs on an 18V LXT battery and offers up to 33 minutes of runtime with a 5.0Ah cell. The bagless design uses a 2-stage cloth filtration system for easy debris disposal. Its compact, ergonomic build and redesigned floor nozzle improve maneuverability. This tool-only unit suits users who already own Makita batteries and need a portable, high-suction cleaner for quick jobs.

Pros

  • Weighs only 3 pounds for easy handling
  • Up to 33 minutes of runtime with a 5.0Ah battery
  • Bagless 2-stage cloth filtration for quick disposal
  • Redesigned floor nozzle improves maneuverability

Cons

  • Battery and charger are not included
  • Limited to dry cleaning only
  • Small dust capacity for a compact unit

Good fit if

  • You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
  • You need a lightweight tool for tight spaces
  • You want a bagless system with cloth filters

Skip if

  • You need a wet/dry vacuum for spills
  • You do not own compatible 18V batteries
  • You require a full upright vacuum system

Verdict: Makita 18V LXT Compact Vacuum is a practical, lightweight option for Makita users who need portability and quick cleanup without the hassle of bags. It fits best for those who already have the power source and want a simple, efficient tool for dry debris.

Also great

Milwaukee 2-Gallon 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum

Best for: wet and dry workshop cleanup tasks

Power Source
Cordless
Battery Voltage
18V
Capacity
2 Gallon
Weight
10.1 pounds
Filtration Type
HEPA
Features
Wet/Dry

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 2-Gallon 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Affiliate link

This 18V cordless wet/dry utility vacuum provides a 2-gallon capacity tank and certified HEPA filtration. It handles liquid and solid debris using an included flexible hose, utility nozzle, and crevice tool. Weighing 10.1 pounds with stackable onboard storage, it suits you if you need portable workshop cleanup power without relying on a wall outlet.

Pros

  • Certified HEPA filter traps fine dust
  • Handles both wet spills and dry materials
  • 2-gallon tank capacity
  • On-board storage compartment holds hose and nozzles

Cons

  • Weighs 10.1 pounds before adding a battery
  • Sold as a bare tool with no battery or charger included

Good fit if

  • You need to collect both wet spills and dry debris.
  • You want built-in storage for your hose and nozzles.
  • You require certified HEPA filtration for fine particles.

Skip if

  • You want a lightweight upright or stick vacuum under 10 pounds.
  • You need a package that includes a battery and charger.

Verdict: Milwaukee 18V 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum suits users who need wet pickup capability alongside dry suction in a portable cordless box. Its certified HEPA filter and stackable design handle mixed debris without requiring access to a wall outlet.

Also great

Milwaukee 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Toolbox Vacuum

Best for: Shop cleanup with existing Milwaukee batteries

Power Source
Battery Powered
Battery Voltage
18V
Weight
2.2 pounds
Filtration Type
HEPA
Features
Wet/Dry
Dimensions
22.5 × 11.5 × 15.8 inches

View on Amazon: Milwaukee 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Toolbox Vacuum Affiliate link

The Milwaukee 0880-20 is a compact 18V wet/dry vacuum that weighs just 2.2 pounds. It uses standard Milwaukee 18V slide-on batteries, including Li-ion or NiCd options. The unit features a HEPA filter and a built-in blower port. Its toolbox design allows for easy transport and storage. This vacuum suits users who need a lightweight, multipurpose tool for both wet and dry cleanup tasks.

Pros

  • Wet and dry capability
  • HEPA filtration
  • Built-in blower port
  • On-board hose storage

Cons

  • Smaller 2-gallon capacity limits debris volume
  • Requires separate purchase of 18V battery and charger
  • Heavier and bulkier than standard stick vacuums

Good fit if

  • You already own Milwaukee 18V batteries
  • You need a wet/dry vacuum for shop use
  • You want a lightweight tool for quick cleanups

Skip if

  • You need a dedicated home floor vacuum
  • You do not own compatible 18V batteries
  • You prefer a corded vacuum for continuous power

Verdict: Milwaukee 0880-20 18V Wet/Dry Vacuum is a practical option for users who already have Milwaukee 18V batteries and need a versatile tool for wet and dry shop tasks.

Best premium

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

Best for: Pet owners needing versatile cleaning

Capacity
0.9-Qt
Weight
16 pounds
Filtration Type
HEPA
Bag Type
Bagless
Suitable For
Pet Hair, Carpet, Hard Floors
Features
HEPA Filtration, Swivel Steering

View on Amazon: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Affiliate link

The Shark NV360 is a 16-pound upright vacuum with a 0.9-quart dust cup. It features a washable HEPA filter and brushroll shutoff for multi-surface cleaning. The lift-away design allows for above-floor use. This model suits pet owners needing strong suction on carpets and hard floors. You get swivel steering for easy maneuverability around furniture.

Pros

  • Washable HEPA filter traps dust and allergens
  • Lift-away pod for stairs and furniture
  • Brushroll shutoff for hard floors
  • Swivel steering for tight spaces

Cons

  • Bagless design requires frequent emptying
  • 0.9-quart capacity is small for large homes
  • Not a cordless or stick vacuum

Good fit if

  • You need strong suction for pet hair
  • You want to clean stairs and upholstery
  • You prefer a lightweight upright design

Skip if

  • You need a cordless stick vacuum
  • You want a large dust bin
  • You prefer bagged vacuum cleaners

Verdict: Shark NV360 Lift-Away Upright is a practical choice for pet owners who need versatile cleaning on both carpets and hard floors. It fits homes where above-floor cleaning is a priority.

Also great

Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum

Best for: Pet hair removal on mixed flooring

Weight
12.5 pounds
Suitable For
Pet Hair
Features
Swivel Steering
Dimensions
13 × 14 × 44.5 inches

View on Amazon: Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum Affiliate link

The Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet is a 12.5-pound upright vacuum designed for pet owners. It features a triple-action brush roll to lift embedded hair and scatter-free technology for hard floors. The unit measures 14 inches wide and 44.5 inches tall. Its edge-to-edge suction handles corners effectively. This model suits homes with mixed flooring and moderate pet hair.

Pros

  • Triple-action brush roll loosens embedded pet hair
  • Scatter-free technology captures messes on hard floors
  • Swivel steering navigates around furniture easily
  • Edge-to-edge suction cleans baseboards and corners

Cons

  • Not a cordless or stick vacuum
  • Requires a power outlet for operation
  • Limited to upright form factor only

Good fit if

  • You need dedicated pet hair removal
  • You prefer upright vacuum maneuverability
  • You want edge-to-edge cleaning power

Skip if

  • You require a cordless stick vacuum
  • You need lightweight handheld cleaning
  • You prefer wet/dry versatility

Verdict: Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum is a practical choice for pet owners who need a dedicated upright vacuum with strong brush roll agitation and scatter-free hard floor cleaning.

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

Best for: pet hair removal and stair cleaning

Filtration Type
HEPA
Features
HEPA Filtration
Dimensions
12 × 9.5 × 45.6 inches

View on Amazon: Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Affiliate link

The Shark UV725 is a lift-away upright vacuum with HEPA filtration. It features a self-cleaning brushroll to prevent hair wrap and LED headlights for visibility. The detachable pod allows for above-floor cleaning on stairs and furniture. Measuring 45.6 inches high and 12 inches wide, it offers versatile maneuverability. This model suits households needing pet hair removal and deep carpet cleaning.

Pros

  • HEPA filtration captures fine dust
  • Self-cleaning brushroll prevents hair wrap
  • LED headlights reveal hidden debris
  • Lift-away mode for stairs and furniture

Cons

  • Renewed condition may vary
  • No wet/dry capability listed
  • Upright design limits portability

Good fit if

  • You need HEPA filtration for allergies
  • You have pet hair on carpets
  • You want to clean stairs easily

Skip if

  • You require wet/dry vacuuming
  • You prefer a lightweight stick vacuum
  • You need brand new sealed items

Verdict: Shark UV725 Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is a solid choice for pet owners who need powerful suction and easy stair cleaning. It fits homes where deep carpet care and allergen control are priorities.

Best budget

Shark WANDVAC Cordless Hand Vac

Best for: spot cleaning cars and upholstery

Power Source
Cordless
Capacity
0.08 Qt.
Weight
1.4 lbs.
Bag Type
Dust cup
Suitable For
Car
Dimensions
16.6 × 2.48 × 2.49 inches

View on Amazon: Shark WANDVAC Cordless Hand Vac Affiliate link

The Shark WANDVAC is a compact, ultra-lightweight cordless hand vacuum designed for quick cleanups. Weighing just 1.4 pounds, it features a high-speed brushless motor for strong suction. The 0.08-quart dust cup empties with one touch. It includes a Multi-Surface Pet Tool and a Duster Crevice Tool for tight spaces. The ergonomic handle and LED indicator enhance usability. This model suits users needing a portable solution for cars or upholstery.

Pros

  • Ultra-lightweight at 1.4 lbs for easy maneuverability
  • High-speed brushless motor delivers strong suction
  • One-touch emptying mechanism keeps hands clean
  • Includes specialized tools for pet hair and crevices

Cons

  • Very small 0.08-quart dust cup capacity
  • Limited to handheld use, not a full-size stick vacuum
  • No wet/dry capability for liquid spills

Good fit if

  • You need a lightweight tool for car interiors
  • You want to clean upholstery and pet hair quickly
  • You prefer one-touch debris emptying

Skip if

  • You require a large dust bin for whole-home cleaning
  • You need to vacuum wet spills or liquids
  • You prefer a full-size stick vacuum system

Verdict: Shark WANDVAC WV201 Hand Vac is a nimble, specialized tool for spot cleaning. It fits buyers who prioritize portability and quick emptying over large capacity. It is not a replacement for a primary floor vacuum.

Specifications side by side

Spec Makita 18V LXT Compact Cordless Vacuum Milwaukee 2-Gallon 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Vacuum Milwaukee 18V Cordless Wet/Dry Toolbox Vacuum Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Bissell CleanView Swivel Pet Upright Vacuum Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Shark WANDVAC Cordless Hand Vac
Power Source Cordless Cordless Battery Powered not stated not stated not stated Cordless
Battery Voltage 18V 18V 18V not stated not stated not stated not stated
Runtime Up to 33 minutes not stated not stated not stated not stated not stated not stated
Capacity not stated 2 Gallon not stated 0.9-Qt not stated not stated 0.08 Qt.
Weight 3 pounds 10.1 pounds 2.2 pounds 16 pounds 12.5 pounds not stated 1.4 lbs.
Filtration Type Cloth filtration HEPA HEPA HEPA not stated HEPA not stated
Bag Type Bagless not stated not stated Bagless not stated not stated Dust cup
Suitable For not stated not stated not stated Pet Hair, Carpet, Hard Floors Pet Hair not stated Car
Voltage 18V 18V 18V not stated not stated not stated not stated
Features not stated Wet/Dry Wet/Dry HEPA Filtration, Swivel Steering Swivel Steering HEPA Filtration not stated
Dimensions 6.85 × 19 × 5.35 inches 18 × 10 × 13 inches 22.5 × 11.5 × 15.8 inches 14.4 × 11.6 × 26.8 inches 13 × 14 × 44.5 inches 12 × 9.5 × 45.6 inches 16.6 × 2.48 × 2.49 inches
Size One Size not stated not stated 14.37x 11.61 x 26.77 Standard not stated 0.08 Qt. Capacity
Color White Red Red Navy Green Multicolor/Assorted Sage Green
Model XLC02ZW 495-0880-20 0880-20 NV360 2252 Shark UV725 WV201GNBRN

Frequently asked questions

Does the Makita XLC02ZW handle wet spills?

No, this model is designed for dry debris only. Unlike the Milwaukee 18V Wet/Dry options listed here, it cannot pick up liquids. You should use the Milwaukee 2-Gallon or Toolbox models if you need to clean up wet messes in a workshop or garage setting.

How heavy is the Makita compact vacuum?

It weighs 3 pounds, making it one of the lightest options available. This low weight supports its role as a portable tool for quick cleanups. In comparison, the Milwaukee 2-Gallon model weighs 10.1 pounds, and the Shark Navigator Lift-Away weighs 16 pounds.

Can I use this vacuum with any 18V battery?

It is part of the Makita 18V LXT system, so it requires compatible Makita batteries. It is not compatible with Milwaukee 18V batteries. If you already own Makita tools, you can use your existing power source without buying a separate charger or battery pack.

Is the Makita XLC02ZW suitable for pet hair?

It is best for dry debris and general portability, not specifically for pet hair. For pet owners, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away or Bissell CleanView Swivel are better choices. These upright models feature brush rolls and HEPA filtration designed to handle pet hair on carpets and hard floors.

What is the capacity of the Milwaukee 2-Gallon vacuum?

The Milwaukee model has a 2-gallon capacity container. This allows it to hold more debris than the small Makita compact unit. The Milwaukee Toolbox version also handles wet and dry tasks but has different dimensions, measuring 22.5 inches in length and weighing 2.2 pounds.

Does the Shark WANDVAC replace a main vacuum?

No, the Shark WANDVAC is a specialized hand vac for spot cleaning. It has a tiny 0.08-quart capacity and weighs just 2.09 pounds. It is not a replacement for a primary floor vacuum like the Shark Navigator or Bissell CleanView, which are designed for whole-home cleaning.

Which alternative is best for workshop cleanup?

The Milwaukee 2-Gallon Wet/Dry Vacuum is ideal for workshop tasks. It handles mixed debris and includes a certified HEPA filter for dust control. Its stackable design and 10.1-pound weight make it a practical choice for heavier duty jobs compared to the lightweight Makita dry-only unit.

See also