Strong Suction Vacuum Cleaners Explained: What Really Matters?

Nick Hu
2025-08-18T19:37:00+10:00

When shopping for a vacuum cleaner, suction power is one of the most essential features buyers look for. But what does having a strong suction vacuum cleaner mean?

With so many types and models on the market, the definition of “strong suction” can vary depending on design, technology, and purpose. So, what’s the best suction vacuum cleaner to opt for? Let’s find out!

How Is Vacuum Suction Measured?

Suction power in vacuum cleaners is measured using different units, depending on the type and brand.

The most common is Air Watts (AW), which is usually found in upright and stick vacuums. Pascal (Pa) is commonly used for robot vacuums, especially models from brands like Roborock. Another technical unit is Water Lift (inH₂O), which measures how high a vacuum can lift water vertically.

It’s important to note that some brands promote their maximum suction power—like in carpet boost mode—rather than the vacuum's sustained suction. Understanding these units helps buyers compare models across different categories more accurately.

Here’s how they compare:

Unit | Common Use | Typical Range | Notes
Air Watts (AW) | Upright/Stick Vacuums | 100–300 AW | Indicates real-world cleaning performance
Pascal (Pa) | Robot Vacuums | 1,500–5,500 Pa | Higher Pa means stronger raw suction
Water Lift (inH₂O) | Technical Specs | 70–100 inH₂O | Measures lifting power, rarely used in marketing

What Is a Good Suction Power for Each Type of Vacuum?

The right suction power depends on the type of vacuum cleaner and how you plan to use it. A high-suction vacuum cleaner doesn’t necessarily mean better performance across the board. It’s all about matching suction to surface type, battery life, and smart features.

Robot Vacuums

The Roborock Saros Z70 stands out with a powerful 22,000 Pa generated through HyperForce technology. This level of suction allows it to tackle demanding cleaning jobs that lighter-powered models simply can’t handle. It pulls embedded dust from thick carpets, removes pet hair clinging to fibres, and lifts debris from hard-to-reach floor gaps. Even in homes with mixed flooring, heavy traffic, or active pets, the Z70 delivers a deeper, more consistent clean in a single pass. This combination of strength and efficiency means you get professional-level results without the need for repeated runs or manual touch-ups.

Cordless Stick Vacuums

Cordless stick vacuums usually operate best within 100–200 AW. These models balance suction power with battery life, and some premium units include turbo or max modes for temporary boosts in suction. Keep in mind that the higher the suction, the shorter the runtime.

Upright and Canister Vacuums

These vacuums usually offer the strongest sustained suction. Ideal power is typically above 200 AW or over 80 inH₂O water lift. While they may not rely on battery power, they can be heavier and louder than their cordless or robotic counterparts.

When buying, note that a strong suction vacuum cleaner should offer a balance between raw power, energy efficiency, and smart adaptability. Roborock models manage with finesse.

Does Higher Suction Always Mean Better Cleaning?

While suction is important, it’s just one part of a well-designed cleaning system. A vacuum with extremely high suction—say, 9,000 Pa—but a poorly designed main brush may still underperform. Cleaning efficiency also depends on airflow, brush action, and filtration.

Multi-stage cleaning systems combine these elements. Roborock models, for instance, feature a floating main brush system that stays close to uneven surfaces and uses anti-tangle rollers to prevent hair clogs. This works alongside strong suction and multi-stage filtration to deliver better real-world results, not just impressive specs. Effective vacuuming is about system balance, not just raw numbers.

How to Choose the Right Suction Power for Your Needs

The right vacuum suction strength depends on what your home needs daily, not just specs on paper. Some homes benefit from strong, consistent suction, while others require flexible cleaning that adapts across surfaces. Instead of focusing on the highest number, think about how your floors and routines interact.

By Surface Type

• Hard Floors: 2,000–2,500 Pa is usually enough. This level can pick up dust, crumbs, and light dirt without pushing debris around or sticking to the floor.

• Thick Carpets & Rugs: Dense fibres require more suction; around 4,000–5,500 Pa is optimal for removing deeply embedded dust, pet hair, and allergens.

• Mixed surfaces: If your home has both carpet and hard flooring, consider a vacuum with surface-sensing features. Opt for advanced models that adjust suction automatically depending on the type of floor they detect.

By Household Type

• Pet owners: Hair and dander can clog vacuums or tangle brushes. Look for models with high suction, anti-tangle systems, and a reliable filtration setup to handle pet messes day after day.

• Allergy sufferers. You’ll want strong airflow combined with HEPA or multi-layer filtration to reduce allergens. Roborock models offer innovative suction modes that focus on deep cleaning while filtering fine particles.

• Big families: A vacuum that maintains consistent suction and can handle large areas without frequent emptying works best. Opt for vacuum models that feature high-capacity dustbins and schedule-based cleaning.

Top Roborock Models With Strong Suction

If you’re looking for a strong suction vacuum cleaner, these standout models deliver exceptional real-world performance.

• Roborock Saros Z70: With 22,000 Pa of suction power, this model uses HyperForce® technology and AI-powered customisation. It adjusts cleaning patterns and suction levels dynamically for deep cleaning across all surfaces.

• Roborock Qrevo Curv: Delivers up to 18,500 Pa of suction and includes a dual anti-tangle brush system for hassle-free maintenance. Ideal for homes with pets or long hair.

• Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra: An advanced model with up to 10,000 Pa of suction and features a liftable brush and mop system. It enhances cleaning efficiency without dragging debris across floors.

• Roborock Q10V+: With 10,000 Pa, it integrates HyperForce® suction with an auto-lifting mopping system. Perfect for hybrid flooring setups and seamless transitions from hard floors to carpets.

FAQs About Vacuum Suction Power

1. What does Pa mean in vacuum specs?

“Pa” stands for Pascal and measures the suction pressure a vacuum uses to lift dirt. Higher Pa generally means stronger suction.

2. Is 10,000 Pa suction powerful enough for carpets?

Yes. 10,000 Pa typically handles carpet cleaning well (even with embedded dirt), as seen in models like Roborock’s S8 MaxV Ultra.

3. How do I know if my vacuum has good suction?

Check the suction spec (Pa or AW), then test it by vacuuming fine dust and pet hair, looking at actual pick‑up.

4. Does higher suction use more battery?

Yes, on cordless stick or robot models, high‑power modes significantly reduce battery life.

Conclusion

Strong suction is one pillar of powerful cleaning, but true results depend on airflow, brush motion, and filtration synergy. Roborock models combine HyperForce suction with sensor‑driven Auto Mode, tangle‑free brush systems, and intelligent design for deep cleaning, reliable smart performance every time. It’s time to explore which model suits your home today.