Bissell Air Ram 1984 Review: The Best Cordless Vacuum for Deep Cleaning?

If you’re looking for a cordless vacuum that excels in deep carpet cleaning, offers extended battery life, and is lightweight on the arm, the Bissell Air Ram 1984 is an excellent choice. After putting it through extensive testing, it’s easy to see why Consumer Reports rates it so highly. Below, I’ll break down its key advantages and a few minor drawbacks to help you determine if this vacuum is right for you.

Why the Bissell Air Ram 1984 Stands Out

1. Ultra-Lightweight and Easy to Maneuver

One of the biggest advantages of the Bissell Air Ram is its unique design, where the motor and battery are located in the cleaner head instead of the handle. This setup reduces the strain on your wrist and arm, making it significantly more comfortable to use than traditional cordless vacuums. Bissell states that only one pound of weight rests on your arm during vacuuming, compared to three to five pounds with most cordless models.

2. Exceptional Deep Cleaning Performance

Most cordless vacuums struggle with deep carpet cleaning, but the Bissell Air Ram is an exception. It scored a perfect 100% on the deep clean test, where 100 grams of sand were embedded into a medium-pile carpet and then removed. The only other cordless vacuum to achieve this in my testing was the high-end Dyson V10.

This impressive performance is due to:

• A powerful brush roll that digs deep into carpet fibers.
• A well-designed front gate that creates a strong seal to maximize suction power.

3. Excellent Debris Pickup on All Surfaces

The Bissell Air Ram effectively removes all types of debris, from fine dust to pet hair and large debris, on both carpets and hard floors. Its self-adjusting gate is particularly well-designed:

• On the forward push, the gate opens wide to accommodate large debris.
• On the backward pull, it seals tightly for better suction.

It even performed well in crevice pickup tests, removing debris from both ⅛-inch and ¼-inch crevices, which many vacuums struggle with.

4. Impressive Battery Life & Removable Battery

Battery runtime is a major factor when choosing a cordless vacuum. In my tests, the Bissell Air Ram lasted 42 minutes, making it one of the longest-lasting cordless vacuums I’ve reviewed, second only to the Dyson V10. Unlike the Dyson, however, the Bissell’s battery is removable, and replacements are available online, allowing for even longer cleaning sessions if needed.

5. Convenient Features for a Better Cleaning Experience

• Bright LED Headlights – Illuminate dirt and dust, revealing debris that you might otherwise miss.
• Large 0.6L Dustbin – Bigger than the Dyson V8 but slightly smaller than the Dyson V10.
• Easy Dirt Ejection System – A lever helps clear stuck debris without making a mess.
• Swivel Steering & Low Profile – Enhances maneuverability and makes it easier to clean under furniture.

Things to Consider (Cons)

While the Bissell Air Ram 1984 has many strengths, there are a few limitations to be aware of:

1. Handle Durability Concerns

Some users have reported that the plastic clips on the handle can break over time. However, Bissell confirmed that their two-year warranty covers this issue, and they will replace the handle for free if it breaks. To avoid strain, it’s best to use the built-in carrying handle when moving the vacuum.

2. No Attachments or Versatility for Upholstery Cleaning

Unlike stick vacuums, the Bissell Air Ram doesn’t support attachments, meaning it can’t be used for upholstery, car interiors, or above-floor cleaning. However, for stair cleaning, I found it more manageable than many cordless vacuums.

3. No HEPA Filtration

While not a dealbreaker at this price point, the Air Ram lacks a HEPA filter, which may not be ideal for allergy sufferers. Instead, it uses a washable foam filter, which needs regular cleaning to maintain performance.

Final Verdict: Who Is It For?

The Bissell Air Ram 1984 is an outstanding cordless vacuum for those who primarily need a lightweight and powerful floor vacuum. It’s an excellent alternative to high-end models like the Dyson V8 and V10, offering comparable or even better deep cleaning performance at a lower price point.

Ideal for:

✅ Homes with carpets and hard floors.
✅ Users looking for a lightweight vacuum with minimal wrist strain.
✅ Those who prioritize deep cleaning power and long battery life.
✅ Pet owners needing strong hair and debris pickup.

Not ideal for:

❌ Those needing attachments for furniture, cars, or upholstery cleaning.
❌ Users with severe allergies who require HEPA filtration.

Overall, the Bissell Air Ram 1984 is one of the best cordless vacuums in its price range, delivering exceptional cleaning power, long battery life, and ease of use. If you’re looking for a no-frills, highly effective floor vacuum, this is a fantastic choice.