In the world of home cleaning, the dream is often a simple one: a vacuum that’s light enough to carry up the stairs without a second thought, powerful enough to tackle the aftermath of a pet-filled weekend, and versatile enough to handle everything from hardwood floors to the car’s footwells. The problem is that this combination of power, portability, and versatility usually comes with a hefty price tag. This leaves many of us searching for a more budget-conscious solution, a cleaner that promises the world without emptying our wallets. It was this exact search that led us to the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover. On paper, it ticks all the boxes: a powerful 850W motor, a featherlight 2kg frame, and a convertible design. But as we’ve learned from years of testing, specifications only tell half the story. The real question is whether this vibrant purple stick vac can translate its promising specs into real-world cleaning performance, or if it’s another case of over-promising and under-delivering. We decided to put it through its paces to find out.
- Powerful 850W Corded Vacuum Cleaner for Deep Carpet Cleaning: The Merlin Pro 2-in-1 corded vacuum cleaner delivers 850 watts of powerful suction - enough to lift deep-down dirt from carpet fibres and...
- Lightweight Hoover - Under 2kg & Converts to Handheld Cleaner: Weighing under 2kg, the Merlin Pro is a lightweight hoover that converts effortlessly into a handheld vacuum for stairs, car interiors,...
What to Consider Before Buying an Upright Vacuum
An Upright Vacuum is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for maintaining a clean and healthy home environment. Its primary benefit lies in its ergonomic design and powerful, direct-path suction, which is often superior for deep-cleaning carpets compared to canister or robotic vacuums. These machines are designed to tackle large floor areas efficiently, saving time and physical effort. They excel at removing embedded dirt, dust, and pet hair from carpet fibres, and many modern models, like the Merlin, include features like HEPA filtration to trap allergens, improving indoor air quality. The right upright vacuum can transform a tedious chore into a quick and satisfying task, ensuring your living space is not just visibly clean, but hygienically clean as well.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone living in a home with significant carpeted areas, pet owners who constantly battle shedding, or families needing a robust, all-in-one solution for floor care. It’s for the person who values deep-cleaning power and efficiency over ultra-compact storage. However, it might not be suitable for those who live in very small apartments with limited storage space or for individuals with mobility issues who might find even a lightweight upright cumbersome on stairs. For those users, a more compact stick vacuum, a canister vacuum with a long hose, or a robotic vacuum for daily maintenance might be better alternatives. It is essential to match the vacuum’s capabilities with your specific home layout and cleaning needs, and for some, the promises of the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover seem to bridge that gap between power and portability.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Power & Suction (Corded vs. Cordless): This is the most critical factor. For corded models, wattage (like the 850W in the Merlin) can be an indicator of motor strength, but it doesn’t always translate directly to suction performance. Look at the overall design, including the floorhead and airflow. Cordless models rely on battery voltage and runtime, offering convenience at the potential cost of sustained power.
- Filtration System: For households with allergy sufferers or pets, a good filtration system is non-negotiable. A HEPA filter, as featured in the Merlin Pro, is the gold standard. It’s designed to capture 99.97% of microscopic particles like dust mites, pollen, and pet dander, preventing them from being recirculated into the air.
- Weight & Manoeuvrability: An upright vacuum needs to be moved around furniture, carried between floors, and pushed back and forth. A model weighing around 2kg, like the Merlin, is exceptionally light and reduces user fatigue. However, ensure this light weight doesn’t come at the expense of build quality and durability.
- Attachments & Versatility: The “2-in-1” functionality is a huge selling point. The ability to convert to a handheld unit, combined with tools like a crevice tool and brush, dramatically increases a vacuum’s utility. Consider if the included attachments meet your needs for cleaning stairs, upholstery, curtains, and car interiors.
Considering these points will help you navigate the market and determine if a specific model truly aligns with your cleaning demands. While the Merlin Pro presents a compelling package on paper, understanding these fundamentals is key to a wise purchase.
While the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover is an interesting contender in the budget category, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition, especially if you’re considering the freedom of a battery-powered model. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- HIGH PERFORMANCE, PORTABLE CORDED UPRIGHT VACUUM CLEANER - Multi-cyclonic performance with lightweight design to easily clean around the home
- 【600W/60Kpa Powerful Suction】This corded vacuum cleaner features a 600W motor, delivering strong suction power up to 60Kpa. It effectively removes dust, dirt, and debris from various surfaces,...
- Lightweight & Compact Design: Designed for effortless maneuverability, this upright vacuum cleaner makes cleaning stairs and navigating tight or large spaces a breeze. Its compact, upright build...
First Impressions: Unboxing the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro
Upon unboxing the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover, the first thing we noticed was its striking purple colour and its incredibly light weight. At just 2 kilograms, it feels more like a toy than a serious cleaning appliance, which could be a positive or a negative depending on your perspective. Assembly was straightforward and intuitive, requiring just a few clicks to attach the handle and the main floorhead to the motor unit. The plastic construction feels adequate for the price point, but it lacks the robust, premium feel of more established brands. There’s a certain “clackiness” to the components that immediately raises questions about long-term durability, a concern echoed by some user feedback we’ve seen.
The design is simple and functional. The power button is conveniently located, and the process of detaching the main unit to convert it into handheld mode is quick and easy. The 0.5-litre dustbin is small, but its transparent design allows you to see when it needs emptying, and the bagless system is a definite plus for low maintenance. Included in the box are the essential attachments: a main brush head for floors, a crevice tool, and a small brush. While basic, this kit covers the core cleaning tasks the machine is designed for. Our initial impression is that of a product laser-focused on being lightweight and affordable, but we were keen to see if its performance could overcome our initial reservations about its build quality. You can see its full list of included components and features to decide if it meets your needs.
What We Like
- Extremely lightweight at only 2kg, making it very easy to carry and manoeuvre.
- Versatile 2-in-1 design converts from stick to handheld mode for above-floor cleaning.
- Features a HEPA filter, which is a significant benefit for air quality at this price point.
- Generous 6-meter power cord provides a decent cleaning radius for a corded model.
Drawbacks
- Suction power is significantly lacking, especially for deep cleaning carpets.
- Build quality feels flimsy and raises concerns about long-term durability.
- Some marketing has caused confusion, with users expecting a cordless model.
- Small 0.5L dustbin requires frequent emptying.
A Deep Dive into the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro’s Real-World Performance
A vacuum cleaner lives or dies by its performance. Specifications like an 850W motor and a HEPA filter are promising, but they mean nothing if the machine can’t effectively lift dirt from your floors. We put the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover through a series of real-world tests on various surfaces to separate the marketing claims from the cleaning reality. Our findings were, to put it mildly, a mixed bag that leaned heavily towards disappointment.
The 850W Power Promise: Suction Tested on Multiple Surfaces
The headline feature of the Merlin Pro is its 850W motor. In the world of stick vacuums, this is a respectable number that should, in theory, generate powerful suction. We started our test on a simple hard floor, scattering some light debris like dust bunnies and spilled oats. Here, the Merlin Pro performed adequately. The direct suction path of the floorhead was able to pick up most of the surface-level mess without too much trouble. It glided easily, and its light weight made it a breeze to quickly zip around the kitchen. If your home consists solely of hardwood, laminate, or tile, and you only ever deal with light, topical dirt, you might find its performance acceptable for quick clean-ups.
However, the moment we moved to carpet, the story changed dramatically. We tested it on both a low-pile rug and a medium-pile carpet, and the results were poor. The floorhead lacks a motorised brush roll, a critical component for agitating carpet fibres to dislodge embedded dirt, pet hair, and dust. The Merlin relies on pure suction, and unfortunately, it simply isn’t powerful or focused enough to do the job. We found it would push around as much dirt as it collected. This confirmed the experience of one user who described it as being like a “trick they do on commercials where they sprinkle some dirt on the floor and act like it’s amazing.” On anything other than the most superficial mess on a hard surface, the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover struggles profoundly. The 850W motor might be powerful, but the machine’s design fails to translate that power into effective cleaning where it matters most for many households.
From Upright to Handheld: An Evaluation of its 2-in-1 Versatility
One of the main selling points is the seamless conversion from an upright stick to a handheld cleaner. The mechanism for this is simple: a push of a button releases the main motor and dustbin unit from the long handle and floorhead. This process is quick and requires no effort. As a handheld unit, its 2kg weight is still manageable, though it feels bulkier than dedicated handheld vacuums. We attached the crevice tool to test it on sofa cushions and along skirting boards.
In handheld mode, the suction issues persist. While it could pick up loose crumbs from the surface of upholstery, it was completely ineffective at drawing out dust or pet hair that had settled into the fabric. The crevice tool helped to concentrate the airflow, but the fundamental lack of pulling power was undeniable. We then tried it in the car, a scenario where a versatile handheld should excel. It failed to lift dirt from the car mats and could only handle loose debris on the plastic trim. The included brush attachment is a simple, static piece of plastic with bristles; it’s useful for dusting surfaces but does little to aid in debris collection. Ultimately, the 2-in-1 functionality is a great idea in theory, but its practical application is severely limited by the vacuum’s core performance flaw. Its versatility exists, but its effectiveness in those versatile modes is highly questionable, a sentiment you can see reflected when you check the latest user feedback online.
Build Quality, Durability, and the Corded vs. Cordless Confusion
To achieve its 2kg weight, the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover is constructed almost entirely of thin plastic. While this makes it easy to lift, it immediately brings long-term durability into question. The connecting joints, the dustbin clasp, and the handle all feel like potential points of failure. During our testing, everything held together, but we were deliberately gentle with it. We share the concern of users who reported that the vacuum “doesn’t last at all.” It does not inspire confidence for surviving the bumps, drops, and rigours of regular household cleaning over several years.
Furthermore, we must address a critical point of confusion. A user review we analyzed mentioned purchasing it after seeing a presentation claiming it was cordless. Let us be unequivocally clear: the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro is a corded electric vacuum. It is not, and has never been, a cordless, battery-powered model. It comes with a 6-meter power cord, which provides a reasonable cleaning radius but requires you to manage the cable and switch plug sockets as you move through the home. Any representation of this product as cordless is incorrect and misleading. This is a crucial distinction for potential buyers, as the convenience of a cordless model is a primary reason many people shop for a new vacuum. The fact that this confusion exists is a significant issue.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings align closely with the more critical feedback we’ve seen from other users. The sentiment is largely one of disappointment, stemming from a disconnect between the product’s advertised capabilities and its actual performance. One of the most significant complaints revolves around misleading information, with a buyer stating, “We bought it specifically because we saw it… claiming to be cordless… but it definitely isn’t cordless.” This highlights a serious issue in how the product has been marketed in some channels.
Performance on carpets is another major point of contention. The same user confirmed our test results, noting, “I tried it on actual dirty carpets and it doesn’t work,” calling it “absolutely pointless if it cant get up dirt.” This sentiment is echoed by another user who offered a stark warning: “Please do not waste your money to buy this vacuum.” Their experience was further compounded by durability issues, stating, “It doesn’t last at all.” While not all feedback is negative, these recurring themes of poor suction on carpets, questions about longevity, and marketing confusion paint a consistent picture that potential buyers should be aware of.
How Does the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Compare to the Alternatives?
It’s clear that the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover occupies the extreme budget end of the market. To provide a fair comparison, it’s essential to see what spending a bit more gets you from more established brands. We’ve looked at three popular alternatives that cater to different needs and budgets.
1. Shark NZ691UKT Upright Vacuum with Anti Hair Wrap
- ANTI HAIR WRAP: Removes hair from the brush-roll as you clean, perfect for long, short & pet hair. LED headlights illuminate hidden dust.
- 2 FLOOR MODES: Switch between carpet & hard floor modes with controls on the handle & adjustable suction control.
The Shark NZ691UKT represents what a high-performance corded upright should be. While it’s heavier and more expensive than the Merlin, the difference in quality and performance is night and day. It features Shark’s signature Anti Hair Wrap technology, which actively removes hair from the brush roll as you clean—a feature pet owners will adore. Its Lift-Away technology also provides 2-in-1 functionality, but with powerful, consistent suction that makes the handheld mode genuinely useful. If you want the reliability and power of a corded vacuum but need it to actually deep-clean your home, the Shark is a far superior investment.
2. Gtech AirRAM MK2 K9 Lightweight Cordless Vacuum
- AirLoc Technology - Using our patented AirLOC Technology, the AirRAM effortlessly picks up large debris as you push forwards and locks on the backstroke to suck up embedded dust. The rotating brush...
- Reinforced with Aluminium - We've strengthened the AirRAM K9 by adding aluminium in key areas. With a compact design, our pet vacuum cleaner offers a simple storage solution with no cables to worry...
For those who were drawn to the Merlin under the mistaken impression it was cordless, the Gtech AirRAM MK2 K9 is a fantastic alternative. It is genuinely cordless, offering up to 40 minutes of runtime on a single charge. It’s also incredibly lightweight and specifically designed for powerful cleaning on both carpets and hard floors, with a motorised brush bar that the Merlin lacks. The K9 model is even reinforced with aluminium for enhanced durability, directly addressing the build quality concerns we have with the Merlin. It is a premium product for those who prioritise cordless convenience and robust pet hair pickup.
3. AEG CX7-2-45MÖ Battery Vacuum Cleaner
- 2-in-1 function: cordless vacuum cleaner with removable handheld vacuum cleaner for maximum flexibility even in hard-to-reach areas
- Extra long running time: up to 45 minutes. or 135 m² running time in the ECO level (16 min. or 48 m² in the power level) - powerful 18 V lithium high-density battery
The AEG CX7-2-45MÖ is another excellent cordless 2-in-1 stick vacuum that demonstrates what this form factor is capable of. It features 180° EasySteer manoeuvrability and BrushRollClean Technology, which cleans the brush roll with the press of a pedal. Its performance and feature set are in a different league from the Merlin. The AEG is designed for users who want the ultimate convenience of a lightweight, cordless, convertible vacuum without making significant compromises on cleaning power and smart features. It’s a perfect choice for modern homes that need a versatile and effective daily cleaning tool.
Final Verdict: Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro?
After extensive hands-on testing and analysis, our verdict on the Merlin 2-in-1 Pro Vacuum Cleaner Upright Handheld Hoover is one of significant reservation. While its extremely low price, featherlight design, and 2-in-1 concept are tempting on the surface, its performance falls critically short in the most important area: cleaning carpets. The lack of a motorised brush roll and underwhelming suction power render it ineffective for anything but light, surface-level tidying on hard floors. Combined with our concerns about its flimsy build quality and the documented confusion about its corded nature, it becomes very difficult to recommend.
We would only suggest considering this vacuum if your home has exclusively hard floors, you have no pets, you only need it for very light-duty tasks (like cleaning up spilled flour), and your budget is exceptionally tight. For nearly everyone else, especially those with carpets or a need for durability, we believe your money is better saved and invested in a more capable machine from a reputable brand. The alternatives from Shark, Gtech, or AEG, while more expensive, offer a vastly superior cleaning experience, better build quality, and features that justify their price. Before making a final decision, we strongly urge you to check the latest price and read through recent user reviews to get the fullest possible picture of what to expect.
Last update on 2025-11-09 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API