How We Research
Every guide on Spry Max answers one question: will this stick vacuum work in your home? That means it has to suit your floors, handle your mess and be easy enough that you'll actually use it.
Here is how we get to an answer.
1. We start with your floors
Carpet, hardwood, tile and LVP each ask for something different from a brush roll. Pet hair and stairs add their own demands.
We check which floor heads come in the box, how the brush roll is built and which surfaces the maker says each one is for. When a model only suits certain homes, we say so.
2. We look at weight and handling
A stick vacuum you can't lift easily won't get used. We note the weight, where it sits in your hand and whether it turns into a handheld for stairs and furniture.
We also check whether it stands on its own or needs a wall mount.
3. We compare battery and upkeep
We compare runtime on each power mode, charge time, whether the battery comes out, bin size, filters and how the brush roll handles hair. We also note the warranty terms each maker gives.
Makers describe their own products, so we name the brand for every claim. For example, we write "Shark says" rather than stating a promise as fact.
4. We read what owners report
We look for patterns in what owners say after months of use. Short battery life, clogged filters, hair wrap, loud motors and broken parts all count.
One unhappy owner doesn't sink a model. A pattern does.
5. We score each model
Our score weighs specs, features and owner feedback against what you're shopping for. A vacuum that suits one home may score lower in a guide written for another.
Scores spread out on purpose. A 10 is rare.
6. We keep pages current
Models change, and makers sell close cousins under similar names. We check model numbers, link only new units and skip any model with a known recall.
When a guide changes in a real way, the "Updated on" date at the top changes with it.
What our picks are not
Our picks come from research, not lab tests. We don't claim to have cleaned with every vacuum we cover.
Stick vacuums run on lithium-ion batteries. Use the charger that came with yours and follow the maker's manual for charging and care.