First released in 2018, the Bissell AirRam 1984 cordless vacuum was one of the early pioneers in lightweight yet powerful stick vacs. In 2022, Bissell built upon the success of the 1984 with the release of the upgraded 2144 model.
Both vacuums feature the brand’s innovative Air Ram technology that provides strong suction for deep cleaning carpets and bare floors. They also include useful tools for cleaning furniture, stairs, upholstery and more.
While the 1984 and 2144 share some similarities, the newer 2144 does have some key improvements. In this article, we will do a detailed comparison of these two popular Bissell cordless stick vacs.
We’ll examine the specs and real-world performance of each model to help you decide which is better for your home.
Key Features and Specifications
Here is a quick overview of the key features and specs of the Bissell AirRam 1984 and 2144:
| Specification | Bissell AirRam 1984 | Bissell AirRam 2144 |
| Weight | 7.7 lbs | 7.5 lbs |
| Battery Life | Up to 32 mins | Up to 45 mins |
| Charging Time | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Suction Power | 100 air watts | 110 air watts |
| Dirt Bin Capacity | 0.6 liters | 0.6 liters |
| Attachments Included | Crevice tool, motorized pet brush | Crevice tool, motorized pet brush, soft dusting brush |
| Swivel Head | No | Yes |
| LED Lights | No | Yes |
| Warranty | 2 years | 3 years |
As you can see, there are some noteworthy differences between the two models when it comes to battery performance, suction power and included accessories. The 2144 has clearly made some upgrades over the 1984 version.
Key Differences Between Bissell AirRam 1984 And 2144 Cordless Vacuums
Next, let’s look at each vacuum in more detail. We’ll compare the design, maneuverability, cleaning performance and other features that impact real-world use.
Design and Maneuverability
The Bissell AirRam 1984 and 2144 share a very similar lightweight, stick vacuum design. Both weigh around 7.5 pounds, making them easy to carry and maneuver around your home.
However, there are a few key design differences:
- Swivel head – The 2144 has a swivel head but the 1984 does not. This makes the 2144 easier to maneuver around furniture and into tight spaces.
- LED lights – The 2144 includes LED headlights to illuminate debris and dirt in dimly lit areas. The 1984 does not have lights.
- Color options – The 1984 is available in one color (plum), while the 2144 comes in plum, blue and magenta.
In terms of maneuverability, the 2144 has a slight edge with its swivel head.
The lights are also useful for seeing dirt and dust bunnies hidden in dark corners and under furniture.
Suction Power and Performance
When it comes to cleaning performance, suction power is very important. Here is how the two models compare:
- Suction power – The Bissell AirRam 2144 provides 110 air watts of suction, while the 1984 offers 100 air watts. Those extra 10 air watts give the 2144 slightly stronger cleaning on carpets and hard floors.
- Multi-surface cleaning – Both vacuums can transition between floor types with the push of a button. They automatically adjust suction power as you go from carpets to hard floors.
- Pet hair pickup – The included motorized brush tool works well to remove embedded pet hair from carpets, furniture and stairs. The 2144 may have a slight edge with its higher suction.
- Deep carpet cleaning – Users report both models performing well on low and medium pile carpeting. The extra suction on the 2144 helps for cleaning high traffic areas and shag carpeting.
Overall, you can expect strong cleaning performance from both cordless stick vacs. But the 2144 does provide noticeably better suction power compared to the older 1984 model.
Battery Life and Charging
Good battery life is crucial for cordless vacuums. Here is how the Bissell AirRam models compare:
- Battery life – The 1984 offers up to 32 minutes of runtime, while the 2144 bumps that up to 45 minutes on a full charge. That’s a significant improvement and allows you to clean more rooms before recharging.
- Charging time – Both vacuums require about 4 hours to fully recharge from empty. Quick charges are not supported.
- Fade-free power – These Bissells maintain consistent suction as the battery drains. There is no fade or loss of cleaning performance before auto shut-off.
- Battery indicator – Each model has an LED battery level indicator so you can monitor runtime remaining.
The 2144 is the clear winner when it comes to battery life. Those extra 13 minutes of cleaning time make a meaningful difference for larger homes.
Additional Features and Accessories
In addition to the core vacuum, there are some other helpful features and accessories included:
- Dirt bin – Both vacuums use the same 0.6 liter capacity detachable dirt bin. It’s easy to empty debris directly into the trash.
- Filters – They use the same multilevel filtration system including a post-motor filter to capture fine particles. Filters are washable and reusable.
- Crevice tool – A basic crevice tool is included with both models. This is useful for cleaning tight spaces and along edges.
- Motorized pet brush – This powered brush tool helps remove pet hair from upholstery. It’s great for stairs, sofas and cars.
- Soft dusting brush – The 2144 adds a soft brush attachment perfect for dusting and cleaning delicate surfaces.
- Wall mount – Both vacuums come with a wall mount for convenient storage. The 2144 mount includes holders for the extra accessories.
The accessories and features are quite similar overall. But the 2144’s dusting brush and better wall mount give it a slight advantage.
Pros and Cons of Bissell AirRam 1984 And 2144 Cordless Vacuum
Here is a quick overview of some of the key pros and cons of the Bissell AirRam 1984 vs 2144:
Bissell AirRam 1984
Pros:
- Lightweight and maneuverable
- Good suction power
- Cleans multiple surface types
- Easy to empty dirt bin
- Washable filters
- Includes mini motorized brush
Cons:
- Shorter battery life
- No swivel head or LED lights
- Only includes crevice tool
Bissell AirRam 2144
Pros:
- Improved 45 minute battery
- Stronger 110 air watt suction
- Swivel head and LED lights
- Soft dusting brush included
- 3 year warranty
Cons:
- Still takes 4 hours to fully recharge
- Wall mount lacks hooks for hose and wand
As you can see, the 2144 has some meaningful improvements over the older 1984 model when it comes to battery life, suction and accessories. For most users, the 2144 would be the better option unless you find the 1984 at a significantly lower price point.
Also Read: Is Karcher Better Than Bissell Steam Cleaner?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The battery life of Bissell’s cordless vacuums varies by model, but most provide around 30-45 minutes of fade-free power on a full charge. Runtime depends on what settings are used. Hard floor cleaning mode provides the longest cleaning time. The batteries can last around 3-5 years with proper care before needing replacement.
1. Remove all pieces from box, including the upper handle, wand, motorized floor nozzle, accessories, charger and manual.
2. Slide the hand vac unit onto the wand until it clicks securely into place.
3. Insert the wand into the floor nozzle, again ensuring it clicks into place.
4. Attach the charger by plugging it into the charging port on the back of the hand vac.
5. Fully charge the vacuum before first use. Assembly is now complete!
Bissell’s AirRam cordless vacuums are turned on using a power trigger switch located on the handheld unit. Simply use your index finger to press and hold the trigger to power on the vacuum. Continue holding the trigger down to keep the AirRam on as you vacuum. Releasing the trigger will immediately turn off the suction. The trigger makes it easy to turn the AirRam on and off as needed while cleaning.
1. Press the release button on the dirt bin to detach it from the hand vac unit.
2. Empty the dirt bin over a garbage can to remove all debris and dust.
3. The dirt bin is not machine washable. But you can wipe it out with a dry cloth if needed to remove dust or hair buildup.
4. The post-motor filter inside the handheld unit should be washed periodically. Remove the filter cover on the bottom to access and wash the filter with cold water. Allow to fully dry before reinserting.
5. Reattach the empty dirt bin by sliding it into the hand vac. You’re all set for more powerful cordless cleaning!
Conclusion and Recommendation
Based on this detailed comparison, the Bissell AirRam 2144 emerges as the clear winner over the older 1984 model.
The 2144 improves upon the original with stronger suction, longer battery life, a swivel head, useful LED lights and extra accessories. These updates make a meaningful difference when cleaning real homes.
The only folks we would steer towards the 1984 are those on a very tight budget. If you can get it for at least 25% less, the 1984 still offers decent cordless cleaning for smaller homes and light messes.
But for most users looking for the best overall cleaning performance, features and value, go with the Bissell AirRam 2144. It stands out as one of the top cordless vacuums available from this trusted vacuum brand.
