October 26, 2020, 10:33 am | Read time: 4 minutes

The Parkside PHSSA 20-Li is supposed to handle both wet and dry vacuuming. For under 20 euros–though without a battery and charger–it is a relatively inexpensive device. How the Parkside handheld vacuum performs in the test and whether it really is a replacement for the good old dustpan can be seen in the test video.

How We Tested

The myHOMEBOOK editorial team tested the PHSSA 20-Li cordless handheld vacuum–including wet and dry vacuuming. Tests for power tools at myHOMEBOOK are standardized. The following test criteria are relevant:

• Performance and quality (25% of the overall score)
• Workmanship, design, and handling (20% of the overall score)
• Accessories (10% of the overall score)
• Sustainability (20% of the overall score)
• Value for money (25% of the overall score)

Parkside PHSSA 20-Li Cordless Handheld Vacuum in the Test–The Unboxing

The handheld vacuum comes with quite a bit of accessories. However, the battery (20 volts) and a charger must be purchased separately. The battery is compatible with many other Parkside devices, such as the impact drill. The following is included with the workshop vacuum:

• Handheld vacuum
• Wet nozzle
• Crevice nozzle
• Brush nozzle attachment
• Universal nozzle attachment
• User manual

What Stood Out in the Test?

The Parkside PHSSA 20-Li handheld vacuum fits well in the hand and is relatively light even with the battery. It operates bagless and is equipped with a HEPA pleated filter. This filter is shielded from dirt by a semi-open partition in the container, which unfortunately does not work well in practice. Additionally, the suction power leaves much to be desired. However, the collection container is quite spacious, with plenty of room for dirt.

The brush and wet vacuum attachment with a rubber lip is practical. However, it should be noted that the attachments cannot be removed from the holder without tools. This is definitely not well designed.

For dry vacuuming, the handheld vacuum performs relatively well, but it reaches its limits on carpets. The filter quickly clogs with dust or sawdust. It is also worth mentioning that no replacement filter is included.

When vacuuming liquids, further weaknesses become apparent. While the water is sucked up fairly quickly, the container does not hold the liquid. It does have a backflow preventer, but it does not seal properly. The filter also gets wet despite the protective device in the container.

Parkside Handheld Vacuum in the Test–The Pros and Cons

Even considering that the Parkside PHSSA 20-Li is a low-budget tool, the practical test reveals some weaknesses. Here is an overview:

Pros

• Value for money
• Wet and dry vacuuming possible
• Large collection container
• Lots of accessories
• Lightweight

Cons

• Low suction power
• Leaky container when wet vacuuming
• Short battery life (about 20 minutes)
• Relatively loud

More on the topic

Parkside PSTDA Under Review How Good Is the Cordless Jigsaw from the Discount Store?

Einhell TH-OS 1016 Reviewed What Can a Multi-Sander Under 30 Euros Do?

Overview of Test Criteria

Performance and Quality:

When vacuuming up sawdust, the Parkside handheld vacuum performed reasonably well in the test. It also works for vacuuming liquids, but the water did not stay in the container afterward. After about 20 minutes, the battery is dead. (2 out of 5 points)

Workmanship, Design, and Handling:

The design is ergonomic, the vacuum fits well in the hand, and the weight is manageable even with the battery. However, there are deductions for the nozzle locking (not tool-free) and the leaky tank. (2.5 out of 5 points)

Also interesting: How good is the cordless jigsaw from the discount store?

Accessories:

Here, the Parkside handheld vacuum scores in the test. A variety of attachments are included. However, the filter will eventually need to be replaced as it clogs quickly. A replacement filter would have been desirable. The fact that the battery and charger are not included is already stated on the packaging and is generally not common with Parkside devices. (3.5 out of 5 points)

Sustainability:

Like most power tools, the low-budget devices from Parkside are likely produced in the Far East. It is difficult to make a statement about the production conditions and materials used. However, we have summarized our knowledge of electric tools and sustainability in an article. (2.5 out of 5 points)

Value for Money:

For a cordless handheld vacuum under 20 euros, one should not expect too much. However, the Parkside PHSSA 20-Li has some significant weaknesses. In some cases, reaching for the good old dustpan is the better alternative. (3.5 out of 5 points)

Overall Rating: 2.725 out of 5 points.

Conclusion

The Parkside PHSSA 20-Li cordless handheld vacuum has some strengths, but also some weaknesses. It can certainly pick up some dirt and is also useful for cleaning the car interior. Essentially, the handheld vacuum represents the evolution of the dustpan, although in most cases, the dustpan itself is sufficient.