Have been toying up with getting a Dyson handheld and before spending $260 on a reduced DC35 (Masters deal + 10% off), thought I'd have a look around at other options.
The B&D PD1200 XE looks good according to Choice Review and User reviews
Kogan have it on special currently with free delivery for $99.
Not sure if the Dyson is worth the extra $160.
The review was posted on 16 Nov 2010. It's an old vacuum.
Does it have a standard size battery so you can get a generic replacement?
I think the 18V B&D dustbusters are quite decent, 12V might be a bit weak. Also 12V is always around $100.
Yup got the 18V version and it's great.
I have the 16.8v version for 2 + years. Still sucking everything I hover over it, and the usage time has not changed (~25 minutes).
I have a 14.4V version of Dustbuster Flexi (bought mine from Bunnings) & it is great.
However mine has Lithium batteries. They keep the charge very well.
My cousin has a NiCad version & hates it - every time he tried using it the batteries were flat.
Basically have to keep it on the charger all the time or charge it before you use it.
Because of it he does not use it very often.
With Lithium batteries you know it is ready to go, even if you store it for few weeks.
Something to keep in mind before buying.
I had the old 18v NiCad version and loved the suction—great for vacuuming the car and cleaning sliding door/window tracks! Mine has just died so I have to get a new one, the 18v lithium ion version is now on sale at Good Guys for $149:
http://www.thegoodguys.com.au/buyonline/Black_&_Decker_18V_D…
Depends on what you are using it for. Its not a stick vac. So for couches around kids after mealtimes and cars it would be good but its range would be limited to spot cleaning.