Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner Review: A Budget Powerhouse with a Surprising Secret

There’s a familiar story in many households: the battle against dust bunnies, stray pet hair, and the daily trail of crumbs. We’ve all been there, wrestling with a heavy, cumbersome vacuum that feels like a workout, or worse, a feeble cordless stick that dies halfway through cleaning the living room. The search for the perfect vacuum often feels like a frustrating compromise between power, convenience, and price. You want the deep-cleaning suction of a traditional upright but the lightweight agility of a modern stick vacuum, all without emptying your wallet. This is the precise challenge that drives us to scour the market, looking for that hidden gem—a device that promises to make daily chores less of a chore. Forgetting to clean is one thing, but having a tool that fails you when you need it most can turn a simple task into a major frustration, leaving your home feeling less than pristine and your patience worn thin.

What to Consider Before Buying a Stick Vacuum Cleaner

A stick vacuum is more than just a cleaning tool; it’s a key solution for maintaining a clean and healthy home with minimal effort. It bridges the gap between small handheld dustbusters and bulky, full-sized vacuums, offering a lightweight, versatile, and often powerful option for quick clean-ups and whole-home maintenance. Their slim profile makes them easy to store in a cupboard or even hang on a wall, making them perfect for apartments, smaller homes, or as a convenient secondary vacuum for high-traffic areas like the kitchen. The primary benefit lies in their accessibility and ease of use, encouraging more frequent cleaning and preventing dirt from building up over time.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the daily onslaught of dirt in a small-to-medium-sized living space. This includes apartment dwellers, students, or families who need a quick, grab-and-go solution for messes in the kitchen or entryway. It’s also perfect for older adults or those with mobility issues who find traditional vacuums too heavy. However, a stick vacuum might not be the best primary choice for those with very large, deeply carpeted homes, as they may lack the sheer power and capacity of a high-end upright model. For those needing industrial-level cleaning or dealing with extensive pet hair on thick carpets, a more robust, specialized vacuum might be a better investment.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Consider the vacuum’s weight and height. A model like the Akitas S12, at 2.8kg, is designed for easy manoeuvrability and carrying up stairs. Also, think about storage. Many stick vacuums come with a wall mount, which is a fantastic space-saver and keeps the device readily accessible. Ensure you have a suitable spot near a power outlet for charging or storage.
• Capacity/Performance: This is a twofold consideration. For corded models, performance is about suction power (measured in KPa or Air Watts) and cord length. A 5-meter cord is adequate for a single room but may require re-plugging for larger spaces. For cordless models, battery runtime is the critical metric. For any model, dustbin capacity (in litres) determines how often you have to stop and empty it; a 0.8-litre bin is quite generous for a stick vacuum.
• Materials & Durability: The construction of the vacuum, from the telescope tube to the brush head, impacts its longevity. An aluminium tube offers a good balance of strength and low weight. However, as some user experiences suggest, the internal components, particularly the motor, are the true test of durability. This is often the area where budget-friendly models make compromises, so it’s a critical factor to weigh against the price.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good stick vacuum should be intuitive. Look for simple controls (like a single push button), an easy-to-empty dustbin, and washable filters. A washable HEPA filter, like the one in the Akitas S12, is a huge plus as it saves money on replacements and helps maintain suction power and air quality over time. Regularly cleaning the filter and brush head is key to long-term performance.

Keeping these factors in mind, the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner stands out in several areas, particularly for its price-to-performance ratio. You can explore its detailed specifications and current offers here.

While the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is an excellent choice for a specific user, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions: Unboxing the Akitas S12

Upon opening the box, the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner presents itself as a simple, no-fuss machine. Assembly was incredibly straightforward and took less than two minutes, with the main components—the motor unit, the aluminium tube, and the floor head—clicking together satisfyingly. The vibrant blue colour is modern and energetic. In hand, its 2.8kg weight feels incredibly light and manageable, a stark contrast to heavier, more cumbersome vacuums. It feels nimble, not cheap.

Now, let’s address the most important clarification. Despite being named the “Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner” in many online listings, this is unequivocally a corded vacuum. The 5-meter power cord is the first giveaway. This isn’t a flaw, but a crucial design choice. Akitas has forgone a costly and heavy battery in favour of a 600W motor that provides continuous, fade-free power. This decision is central to its identity: it’s a machine built for raw performance at an ultra-low price point, and we were eager to see if this trade-off was worth it.

A Deep Dive into the Akitas S12’s Real-World Performance

A vacuum’s worth isn’t determined by its spec sheet, but by how it performs in the messy reality of a home. We put the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner through its paces on a variety of surfaces, from hardwood floors to medium-pile rugs, to see if its corded power could truly deliver a superior clean for its budget price.

Suction & Cleaning Power: The 600W Corded Heart

The core promise of a corded vacuum is consistent, powerful suction, and here, the Akitas S12 does not disappoint. The 600W digital motor generates a claimed 17 KPa of suction, a figure that translates into genuinely impressive real-world performance. On our hardwood and laminate test floors, it effortlessly picked up everything from fine dust and flour to larger debris like cereal and cat litter. There was no “snowploughing” effect where the head simply pushes larger bits around; the suction was strong enough to pull them in cleanly. This was echoed by numerous users who praised its “very good strong suction,” with one calling it “exceptional for the price.”

The real star of the show is the German-engineered Wessel Werk 2-in-1 brush head. This is a component you’d typically find on much more expensive vacuums. It has a simple toggle switch to extend or retract bristles, optimising it for hard floors or carpets. On carpets, the performance was surprisingly robust. It visibly lifted the pile and pulled out embedded pet hair and lint effectively. However, this power creates a unique challenge that one user astutely pointed out: the head can sometimes stick to the floor “too strong,” especially on hard surfaces. We experienced this as well; the sheer force of the suction can create a vacuum seal that makes pushing it forward feel a bit stiff. The user’s ingenious solution of adding small furniture pads to the head to create a tiny bit of clearance is a brilliant and effective DIY fix we’d recommend.

Design & Everyday Usability: Lightweight Agility Meets a Short Leash

Weighing in at a mere 2.8 kilograms, the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is an absolute joy to handle. Carrying it up and down stairs is effortless, and its slim profile allows it to navigate tight spaces and around furniture with ease. The lightweight nature means you can clean for longer without feeling fatigued, a significant advantage over heavier models. The conversion to handheld mode is quick and simple, making it perfect for cleaning upholstery, car interiors, or stairs. This versatility was a highlight for many users, with one noting, “I love having the hand held section which I can use for the car.” It’s this grab-and-go convenience that makes you reach for it for small spills instead of a dustpan and brush.

However, the biggest constraint on its usability is the 5-meter power cord. In our testing, this length was sufficient for cleaning a standard-sized bedroom or living room from a central outlet. But for hallways, open-plan living areas, or cleaning an entire floor, we found ourselves constantly searching for the next outlet. As one user aptly put it, “I have to replug in each room as its quite short.” This is the fundamental trade-off of the Akitas S12: you get unlimited runtime, but limited range. Another minor design quirk we, and other users, noticed is the placement of the dual exhaust vents on the side of the motor. If you hold the vacuum at a certain angle, the strong airflow can blow away the very dust you’re trying to capture. It’s a small annoyance that requires a slight adjustment in how you handle the machine, but it’s noticeable.

Filtration and Maintenance: The Simplicity of Bagless Cleaning

One of the best modern conveniences in vacuum technology is the bagless design, and the Akitas S12 executes it well. The 0.8-litre dustbin is generously sized for a stick vacuum, allowing for several cleaning sessions before needing to be emptied. Detaching the bin is a simple one-button affair, and it empties directly into the trash with minimal mess. This ease of maintenance was a recurring theme in positive user feedback, with one person highlighting they “Love the fact that it’s bagless so easy to empty dirt and clean it after.”

Inside, the True Cyclone HEPA Filtration System is designed to capture fine dust particles and allergens, preventing them from being recirculated back into the air. This is especially important for those with allergies or asthma. The main HEPA filter is also washable, which is a fantastic feature at this price point. We simply rinsed it under cool water, let it air dry completely for 24 hours, and popped it back in. This not only saves money on replacement filters but also ensures the vacuum maintains its peak suction power over time. A clogged filter is the number one cause of reduced performance in any vacuum, so this easy-to-clean system is a major long-term benefit for any owner willing to perform this simple maintenance task.

Durability Concerns: The High-Risk, High-Reward Factor

While the initial performance of the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is impressive for the price, we cannot ignore a troubling pattern in user feedback regarding its long-term durability. We found multiple, credible reports of the motor failing prematurely. Users described scenarios where the vacuum “worked for only two minutes then stopped,” or started making an “awful sound” accompanied by a “burning smell” after just a month of use. Another user stated that after two months of only “light house work use it’s died and no sign as to why!”

This presents the biggest caveat in our recommendation. While our test unit performed flawlessly during our evaluation period, the volume of these reports suggests a potential quality control issue or a motor that is not built for longevity. It appears that in achieving such a low price point, compromises may have been made in the internal components. This is the ultimate gamble with the Akitas S12. You are getting performance that rivals vacuums costing three or four times as much, but with a significant risk that it may not last. It’s a shame, as one user put it, “this could be a great lil hoover.” For those willing to take the risk for the exceptional initial value, it’s a tempting proposition, but buyers must be aware of this potential for early failure.

What Other Users Are Saying

After compiling a wide range of user feedback, a clear and consistent picture of the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner emerges. The positive sentiment overwhelmingly focuses on its incredible value for money. Users frequently use phrases like “ridiculously cheap,” “exceptional for the price,” and a “bargain.” The primary driver for this praise is the suction power, which consistently exceeds expectations. One happy customer noted it has “very good strong suction, works very well and so easy too use.” Another summed it up perfectly: “It’s best low price vacuum cleaner I ever bought feels good looks good suction perfect.”

On the flip side, the criticisms are just as consistent. The most common minor complaint is the short power cord, which is a practical limitation many are willing to accept for the price. However, the most serious and recurring negative feedback revolves around the product’s lifespan. We saw several alarming reviews where the vacuum simply stopped working. One user detailed how the motor “has seemingly packed up. It turns on, makes a awful sound an has a burning smell to it.” Another reported it “worked for only two minutes then stopped working and started perceiving burnt stuff.” This feedback is critical because it highlights a potential gamble: you might get a brilliant, long-lasting bargain, or you might get a device that fails within weeks or months.

How Does the Akitas S12 Compare to Alternatives?

The Akitas S12 operates in a unique space, offering corded power at a cordless price. To understand its value, it’s essential to compare it against popular cordless models that buyers might also be considering.

1. Vax Blade 4 Classic Plus Cordless Vacuum Cleaner 45min Runtime

The Vax Blade 4 is a step up in both price and functionality. Its key advantage is total freedom—no cord means you can move from room to room, up the stairs, and out to the car without restriction. It also boasts a 45-minute runtime, which is ample for most homes. Compared to the Akitas S12, you’re paying a premium for this cordless convenience and the trust that comes with the Vax brand name. However, the Akitas offers continuous power without any runtime anxiety. The Vax is the better choice for those who prioritize cordless freedom and have a slightly larger budget, while the Akitas is for the budget-conscious user who values raw, uninterrupted power over portability.

2. Russell Hobbs Centaur 2 in 1 Cordless Stick Vacuum 60-Min Run Time

The Russell Hobbs Centaur offers an impressive 60-minute runtime, giving it a significant edge in endurance over many cordless competitors. It also features two speed settings, providing versatility that the single-speed Akitas S12 lacks. This model represents a middle ground, offering a well-known brand and extended battery life for a moderate price. Someone might prefer the Russell Hobbs model if they have a larger home and want to complete their entire clean on a single charge without the hassle of a cord. The Akitas S12, in contrast, remains the champion of sheer suction power for the lowest possible cost, albeit with the tether of a cord.

3. kalado KCV01 Cordless Vacuum Cleaner 40 Mins Runtime

The kalado KCV01 competes directly with the other cordless options, offering a solid 40-minute runtime, a modern LED display, and a self-standing design for easy storage. Its key selling points are its lightweight build and advanced features for a competitive price within the cordless market. When compared to the Akitas S12, the choice is again about corded reliability versus cordless flexibility. A user might opt for the Kalado if they want modern features like an LED display and the convenience of a battery without breaking the bank. The Akitas S12 is for the pragmatist who is willing to forego these bells and whistles for maximum suction power at a rock-bottom price.

Final Verdict: A Powerful but Risky Bargain

After extensive testing and analysis, our verdict on the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is one of cautious enthusiasm. There is no denying its core strength: it delivers astounding suction power and cleaning performance for a price that is almost unbelievably low. Its lightweight design, simple maintenance, and high-quality German floor head make it a joy to use for daily cleaning tasks. For small homes, apartments, or as a powerful secondary vacuum, its performance punches far, far above its weight class.

However, this incredible value is shadowed by significant and credible concerns about its long-term durability. The recurring reports of motor burnout are too numerous to ignore and represent a genuine risk for any buyer. Ultimately, the Akitas S12 is a high-risk, high-reward proposition. If you get a good unit, you will feel like you’ve found the best cleaning bargain of the year. If you don’t, it could be a source of frustration. We recommend it for those on the absolute tightest of budgets who need powerful cleaning for a small space and are willing to accept the gamble on its longevity.

If you’ve decided the Akitas S12 Cordless Bagless Vacuum Cleaner is the right fit for your needs and budget, you can check its current price and purchase it here.