It’s great to have a small but powerful handheld vacuum on hand for small jobs, so you don’t have to drag out the big vacuum when kids spill cereal on the floor, or a little bit of dirt gets tracked in the house. The Black and Decker Pivot vac fits that bill perfectly. With a powerful motor and compact design, it’s the perfect solution for those on the go who don’t have much time to spend cleaning.
The Black and Decker Pivot Vac Review
Last update on 2025-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Ease of use
The Black & Decker 18V Pivot Vac PHV1810 is very convenient to use. Not only is it lightweight and small, but the front nozzle flexes, so you can get into many different types of spaces as needed. This means it’s not only great for around the house but also for cleaning out the car or boat. Both of its tools are on board, meaning you don’t have to worry about losing extra attachments. Between the regular nozzle, the long crevice tool that slides out, and the brush that flips up from the end, you’ll be able to clean up just about anything.
It also has a wide mouth design, so picking up larger debris like cereal or larger dirt bits isn’t an issue. With many handheld vacuums, the nozzle is so slim you can’t pick up anything bigger than a dust bunny. That’s not the case with this handy little machine.
One thing owners who review this new version of the Black & Decker dustbuster like very much is that it’s really easy to access the filters and the dust cup for emptying. The filter is also washable, so you won’t have to spend a bunch of money replacing it regularly.
Mechanics
This pivoting vacuum boasts a powerful 18-volt battery, so it has great suction. It also incorporates cyclonic action that spins dirt away from the filter for cleaner exhaust. The three-stage filtration prevents clogs and also contributes to cleaner air.
In fact, the motor is strong enough to pick up cereal, peanut shells, bird seed and cat litter. One review states the owner has two cats, and this unit is powerful enough to clean up any mess they make.
The battery charger is also Energy Star qualified, so you can rest assured it won’t be hogging up a lot of power, making it very economical to use.
What about the battery?
When you get the PHV1810, give it an initial charge of 24 hours to ensure the battery is fully charged before use. After that, you can expect it to last 10 minutes to an hour or more on a single charge.
One review stated that the user had had this handheld vacuum for over a year and that the battery is as powerful as when it was first purchased.
Storage
Unfortunately, this vac does not come with a charging stand or wall mount. However, the nozzle folds down for a nice, compact design, and the wall charger plugs directly into the unit.
Tools & Accessories
The Black & Decker PHV1810 comes with only on-board tools. There is a long crevice tool that slides out of the front nozzle, as well as a brush that flips up from the front.
Warranty
Included is an excellent limited warranty against defects in workmanship or material. This is a warranty provided by the manufacturer.
Specs
- Bagless
- Washable filters
- Weight: 3.8 pounds
- Read the Instruction Manual
Pros
- Strong suction
- Compact and lightweight
- Easy to empty and clean
- The pivot and extension tool and brush are very handy and won’t get lost or in the way

Cons
In reviews, there were only two major complaints. The first is that there is no wall mount or charging cradle. This means you have to have a place to set the unit down for storage, and while it is charging. One review said tying a cord around the machine allows it to be hung if that is more convenient.
The second complaint is that, since it runs on a battery rather than a wall cord, you can’t use it for very long at a time. This is the case with all cordless vacuum technology at this time. Of course, you’re always going to be able to use a corded vacuum for longer periods of time due to the constant power source. That said, the battery on this one lasts much longer than those of many other handheld vacuums.
Consumer Ratings
People who bought this powerful Black & Decker 18V vacuum gave it a great rating. They love its power and durability most of all, as well as the convenience of having no cord to get in the way.
Price
This machine retails for around $$$, but you can save a lot of money by buying it online.
Summary
This is a great little vacuum. The only reason it’s rated right behind the Black and Decker Flex is that it is not quite as versatile. With only 2 tools and no extension hose, it’s just a little more limited in its function. While it’s not quite as powerful as the 20V version, it’s still a good little vac.
However, it is powerful and fantastic for small jobs. If you’re cleaning up after the kids or the dog and don’t need to maneuver into really tight spaces, this might just be the perfect choice for you.

