BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW Review
Discover the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW hand vac, a compact powerhouse with a pivoting nozzle for easy access to tight spots. Perfect for quick cleanups and everyday messes!
Summary / TL;DR
The BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW hand vac is a compact and versatile cleaning tool, designed for quick clean-ups and tight spaces. Its standout feature is a pivoting nozzle, which enhances maneuverability in awkward spots. Powered by a lithium-ion battery, it offers decent suction and a quick charge, though it's not suited for heavy-duty tasks. The design is sleek and modern, with an ergonomic handle for comfortable use. While the build is generally sturdy, some users report the pivoting joint feels less robust over time.
Performance-wise, the 18V motor provides strong suction for everyday debris, but may struggle with larger particles. The battery lasts 10-15 minutes, sufficient for small tasks, but requires four hours to recharge. The package includes a charging base, crevice tool, and brush tool, though a wall-mount option is absent. Maintenance is easy with a washable filter and translucent dirt bowl, though the bin's small size necessitates frequent emptying.
Compared to competitors like Dyson and Shark, this model offers good value, balancing price and functionality. Overall, it's a reliable choice for quick clean-ups, though not ideal for more extensive cleaning needs.
If you like this review, you might also like our review on the BLACK+DECKER BHHV520JF-QW or BLACK+DECKER DVA325JP07-QW or BLACK+DECKER PD1420LP-QW.
Introduction
The BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW hand vac is aimed at those looking for a compact yet powerful cleaning tool that tackles messes with ease. This cordless vacuum is designed to make cleaning up small spills and tight spaces less of a hassle. But does it really deliver on its promises? Let's dig a bit deeper.
What makes this hand vac stand out is its pivoting nozzle, which allows you to reach those awkward spots without breaking a sweat. It's a bit like having an extra wrist joint dedicated just to vacuuming. But that's not all; the vacuum is equipped with a lithium-ion battery, which promises long-lasting suction power and quick charging. However, if you're expecting it to handle heavy-duty tasks, you might be reaching for the stars.
The design is sleek and modern, making it more appealing than your average dust buster. Yet, while it looks sharp, the question remains—can it hold up under pressure? It's a balancing act between portability and power, and the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW aims to strike that balance. It’s lightweight enough to carry around, but not so feather-light that it compromises on what it should do: clean effectively.
In short, this hand vac is a handy tool for quick cleanups and everyday crumbs. But like anything, it comes with its own set of pros and cons. Ready to see what it offers? Let’s jump into the details.
Design and Build Quality
First impressions matter, right? And when it comes to the design and build quality of a hand vac, the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW definitely leaves a mark. This model sports an innovative and slick design that's bound to catch your eye. Its pivoting nozzle is a game-changer, allowing you to get into those tight corners and awkward spots that usually feel impossible to clean. Think of it as an extension of your arm, but with superpowers.
The vacuum is crafted from durable plastic, making it feel solid in hand, yet light enough not to be a burden during use. We've all had those cleaning sessions where the tool's weight becomes a workout, but that's not the case here. The build is sturdy, though some might find the plastic a bit too glossy, which might show off fingerprints more than we'd like. But that's a minor gripe.
The ergonomic design of the handle makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods. It doesn’t dig into your palm, a small detail that makes a huge difference when you're tackling a big cleaning session. Plus, the overall compact size means it doesn't hog space in your storage, which is a big win for those of us with limited room.
While the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW excels in many aspects, the build quality does come with a trade-off. Some users find the pivoting joint slightly less robust than expected, especially after long-term use. But overall, for a tool that’s meant to be your trusty sidekick in banishing dust and crumbs, it holds up well under regular household conditions.
To sum it up, this hand vac is like that trusty friend who's always there for you – reliable and ready to tackle whatever mess comes your way. If you're looking for a balance between functionality and design, this one's definitely worth considering.

Performance and Suction Power
Let's talk about the performance and suction power of this handheld vacuum. This little beast boasts a 18V motor, which means it's got some serious grunt under the hood. It's like having a mini tornado in your hand, ready to suck up anything in its path. If you're dealing with pet hair, crumbs, or just general debris, this hand vac is more than capable.
One thing you'll love is the pivoting nozzle. It can maneuver into tight spots, making it easy to clean up those awkward corners and crevices. The 200-degree pivot range is a real game changer, especially when you're trying to reach under car seats or between couch cushions. It's like having a secret weapon against dirt!
However, it's worth mentioning that while the suction is powerful for a handheld, it's not going to completely replace your full-size vacuum. Think of it more as a trusty sidekick for quick clean-ups. The suction power can sometimes struggle with larger debris, so just keep that in mind if you're tackling bigger messes.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW offers a commendable balance of power and convenience. It’s perfect for everyday spills and quick tidy-ups, saving you from dragging out the big vacuum every time. Just remember, it won’t handle everything like a full-sized vacuum might, but for a hand vac, it delivers strong performance and reliable suction where it counts.

Battery Life and Charging
The BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW hand vac runs on a lithium-ion battery, which is a big plus for those who hate being tethered to an outlet. The battery life is pretty decent, giving you around 10 to 15 minutes of continuous use. This should be enough time to tackle those quick clean-up jobs or get rid of pesky crumbs on the sofa. However, once the battery is out of juice, you'll need to be a bit patient. Charging this bad boy back to full takes about four hours. That's not exactly lightning speed, but it's fairly standard in the world of cordless vacuums.
Charging is straightforward—just plug it into the wall with the included charger. There's a handy LED indicator light that lets you know when it's fully charged. No more guessing games or checking it every few minutes like a kid waiting for cookies to bake. If you're used to more powerful vacuums with longer battery life, you might find the run time on this model a tad short. But for quick touch-ups and small messes, the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW does just fine. It's like having a trusty sidekick for those mini battles against dust and dirt.
What's in the Box
When you crack open the box of the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW, you won't find a treasure chest, but you do get everything needed to get started right away. First up, of course, is the hand vac itself, which is the star of the show. It's accompanied by a charging base that doubles as a storage solution, keeping your vacuum neatly tucked away when not in use.
Included in the package, there's also a built-in crevice tool. This nifty attachment is designed for those hard-to-reach spots, like between the couch cushions or the awkward corners of your car. It's a part of the vacuum, so you won't lose it easily, but you'll still have to get used to flipping it out when needed.
The box also contains a brush tool which is perfect for handling dust on delicate surfaces. This is great if you're worried about scratching or just need to sweep up fine particles gently.
One thing you might notice is the absence of a wall mount for the charging base. If you're a stickler for organized spaces, you might miss having the option to mount your hand vac on the wall. But hey, you can't win 'em all.
Finally, there's a user manual that provides all the necessary instructions and maintenance tips. It's straightforward but could be a bit more detailed for those of us who aren't naturally tech-savvy.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW package includes what you need to get started on your cleaning journey, with a little room for improvement on the accessory front.

Ease of Use and Maintenance
Using the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW is like having a little helper around the house that doesn’t require much training. Ease of use is front and center with this hand vac. It features a pivoting nozzle, which allows you to reach awkward spots—like those pesky corners under the couch or between car seats. The nozzle's flexibility is a game-changer for tackling dirt and crumbs in tight areas. If you're looking for something straightforward, this is your guy.
Now, let's talk about maintenance. The dirt bowl is translucent, so you can easily see when it’s time for a clean-up, avoiding any “oops, it’s full” moments. Emptying the dirt bowl is as simple as it gets. Just pop it out, dump the contents, and you’re good to go. The filter is washable, which means you're not constantly hunting for replacements. Just rinse it under water, dry it, and it's ready for action again.
However, not everything's sunshine and rainbows. Some folks might find the dirt bowl a tad small, meaning more frequent trips to the bin if you're tackling a larger job. But for quick clean-ups, it's just fine. Another thing to note is that the design of the charging base could be a bit more intuitive; there's a slight learning curve to get it seated just right.
Overall, the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW makes cleaning less of a chore and more of a breeze, with minimal fuss involved in keeping it in tip-top shape. It's almost like having your own little cleaning buddy, without the small talk.
Competitor Comparison
When you’re in the market for a hand vac, comparing options can feel like picking the best apple out of a basket. Let’s see how this BLACK+DECKER model stacks up against some popular rivals.
The Dyson V7 Trigger is a powerhouse in the hand vac world. Known for its strong suction, it can easily tackle pet hair or stubborn dirt. However, it comes with a higher price tag that might leave you wondering if it's worth the extra dough. While the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW doesn't quite reach Dyson's suction levels, it offers a more budget-friendly choice without skimping on versatility.
Next up, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser. This model specifically targets pet owners, with its specialized tools for picking up pet hair. It's a bit bulkier, though, and not as flexible in tight spaces as the BLACK+DECKER. The pivoting nozzle of the PV1820L-QW grants it the agility you miss with the Bissell.
Then there's the Shark WV201 WANDVAC. This sleek little number is ultra-lightweight and easy to maneuver. But, it tends to have a shorter battery life than the BLACK+DECKER, which might leave you hanging halfway through a cleaning session.
- Price: BLACK+DECKER is more affordable than Dyson.
- Suction Power: Dyson leads, but BLACK+DECKER holds its own in everyday messes.
- Battery Life: Longer in BLACK+DECKER compared to Shark.
- Portability: Shark is lighter, but BLACK+DECKER's pivoting nozzle is a win for versatility.
So, is this hand vac the best apple in the basket? It offers a sweet spot of price, performance, and flexibility, making it a solid contender among its peers. But if you need sheer power or special pet tools, you might look elsewhere.

Conclusion
After spending some quality time with the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW, it's clear that this hand vac packs quite a punch in its compact design. If you're on the hunt for a reliable, no-fuss cleaning companion, this might just be your new best friend. With its strong suction power and pivoting nozzle, this hand vac is a solid contender for everyday messes.
Its sleek design makes it a breeze to maneuver around tight spots, like corners or the dreaded space between car seats. However, while the lightweight build is a plus, the dustbin could have been a tad larger for those with more extensive cleaning needs. The lithium-ion battery holds up reasonably well, but if you're planning a marathon cleaning session, you might need to recharge midway.
Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to the washable filters, but some users might find emptying the dustbin a bit messy. To compare, its peers in the market may offer slightly bigger capacity or longer battery life, but the BLACK+DECKER PV1820L-QW shines in its own right with its innovative design and ease of use.
Ultimately, this hand vac is perfect for quick clean-ups and small tasks around the house. It's a nifty tool to keep on hand for those rapid touch-ups. While it might not be the best choice for heavy-duty cleaning, it certainly earns its keep for those everyday spills and crumbs.
FAQ
- How long does it take to fully charge? The hand vac typically takes around 4 hours to reach a full charge. Plug it in after a cleaning session, and it should be ready for the next round.
- Is the filter washable? Yes, the filter is washable. Rinse it under running water and let it dry completely before popping it back in. This helps maintain suction power over time.
- Can it handle pet hair? While it's not specifically a pet vac, it does a decent job with pet hair on furniture and hard surfaces. If you have a zoo at home, though, you might want something with a bit more oomph.
- What's the dustbin capacity? The dustbin is on the smaller side, holding about 0.44 liters. Frequent emptying could be a downside for larger cleaning tasks, but it keeps the vac nice and compact.
- Does it come with attachments? The package includes a flip-up brush and an extendable crevice tool. These are handy for tight spots and surfaces needing gentle treatment.
- How noisy is it? Being a compact vac, it's not whisper quiet. It’s not deafening either, but you might not want to use it while the baby’s napping.
- What surfaces can it clean? It's great on hard floors, countertops, and car interiors. Carpet deep-cleaning isn't its jam, though it can handle small rug messes.
- Can it be wall-mounted? No, this model doesn’t come with a wall-mount option. It’s designed to be stored flat or in a cupboard.
- Is there a warranty? Typically, BLACK+DECKER offers a two-year limited warranty for their hand vacs. Make sure to check the specific terms when purchasing.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Pivoting nozzle for hard-to-reach areas
- Compact and lightweight design
- Strong suction for a handheld
- Washable filter for easy maintenance
- Quick charging with lithium-ion battery
Cons
- Small dustbin capacity
- Long charging time of 4 hours
- Plastic build shows fingerprints
- No wall-mount option included
Technical specifications
Brand | BLACK+DECKER |
---|---|
Model | PV1820L-QW |
Product Type | Handheld Vacuum Cleaner |
Power Source | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery |
Battery Voltage | 18 Volts |
Battery Capacity | 1.5 Ah |
Charging Time | 4 Hours |
Run Time | 10 Minutes |
Suction Power | 35 Air Watts |
Dustbowl Capacity | 440 ml |
Filtration System | Triple Action Filtration |
Pivoting Nozzle | Yes, 200 Degrees |
Weight | 1.38 kg |
Dimensions | 29.5 x 18 x 15.5 cm |
Color | White and Grey |
Accessories Included | Integrated Crevice Tool and Brush |
Noise Level | 85 dB |
Warranty | 2 Years |
Special Features | Compact Design, Easy to Empty, Cyclonic Action |
Usage | Ideal for Quick Clean-ups and Spot Cleaning |