Discover how this cordless vacuum revolutionizes home cleaning
If you’re constantly battling pet hair, dust, and the limitations of traditional vacuum cleaners, the Gtech AirRAM 2 promises a cordless solution that makes cleaning simpler and more efficient. As someone who has tested numerous vacuums while caring for multiple pets, I understand the struggle of finding a machine that effectively tackles fur while being convenient to use and store.
Gtech AirRAM 2: An Overview
The Gtech AirRAM 2 is a cordless upright vacuum cleaner designed specifically with modern home cleaning needs in mind. Originally released in 2016, it remains popular due to its lightweight design, excellent maneuverability, and competitive pricing compared to newer models. The K9 variant is specifically engineered for pet owners, featuring aluminum reinforcements at key areas to handle the added strain of sucking up thick fur.
Key Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Gtech AirRAM 2 | Gtech AirRAM 2 K9 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Cordless upright, bagless | Cordless upright, bagless |
| Weight | 3.2kg (7.3lbs) | 3.5kg (7.3lbs) |
| Bin Volume | Not specified | 27 ounces |
| Max Runtime | 40 minutes | 40 minutes |
| Battery Charging Time | 4 hours | 4 hours |
| Number of Tools | None | None |
| Filters | Washable | Washable, not HEPA |
| Special Features | AirLOC system, reclining handle | Aluminum reinforcements, built-in light |
| Warranty | 2 years | 2 years |
In-Depth Review: What Makes the Gtech AirRAM 2 Stand Out?
Design and Maneuverability
Weighing just 3.2kg (7.3lbs), the Gtech AirRAM 2 is notably lightweight, making it easy to carry around the house and up stairs. The design features a grab handle about halfway down its neck that can be shortened for storage or vacuuming in tight areas.
One of its standout features is the 180-degree rotating neck that allows the vacuum to pitch downwards 90-degrees from upright to lie virtually flat on the ground. This makes it exceptionally easy to clean under furniture like sofas and beds. The built-in headlight is particularly useful for spotting hidden dirt and pet hair in dark spaces.
Cleaning Performance
On Hard Floors
The Gtech AirRAM 2 excels on hard surfaces like hardwood, tile, and vinyl. In standardized tests, it outperformed several competitors, picking up more than the original 20g of both cat litter and cheerios spilled during testing. The AirLOC system locks debris into place when you pull the vacuum back, making it easier for dirt to be sucked up into the dust bin.
On Carpets
While the AirRAM 2 handles surface dust and pet hair effectively on carpets, it struggles with deeper dirt. It’s sufficient for regular maintenance cleaning but may disappoint when dealing with ground-in debris. In tests, it picked up 18g of cat litter and 17.4g of cheerios from carpets, performing less effectively than some competitors.
Pet Hair Specialist
The K9 variant particularly shines at picking up pet hair from various surfaces including short and long pile rugs, carpets, and hard floors. Even fur that has been trampled into long pile rugs typically pulls away easily. However, long human hair and pet fur can occasionally clog the brush, requiring periodic cleaning.
Battery Life and Charging
The Gtech AirRAM 2 offers 40 minutes of cleaning time after a full four-hour charge. The battery is removable, which means you can charge it separately without having to place the entire vacuum near a power socket. This also allows you to carry spare batteries for larger homes or extended cleaning sessions.
The vacuum features LED battery indicators that show how much charge remains, so you’re never caught off-guard with a dead battery mid-clean.
Storage and Maintenance
The upright design of the AirRAM 2 makes it easy to store in tight spaces without needing wall brackets. The bin is straightforward to empty – simply pull it up and remove it from the vacuum, pop open the side, and use a push rod to empty completely.
The filter is washable, helping maintain performance over time. Gtech provides excellent support with a dedicated YouTube channel featuring tutorials on repair and maintenance.
Gtech AirRAM 2 vs. Competitors
How does the Gtech AirRAM 2 stack up against other popular models? Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Gtech AirRAM 2 | Dyson Gen5Detect | Dreame R10 Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $164-$249 (£249) | Significantly higher | Similar price range |
| Weight | 3.2kg (7.3lbs) | Heavier | Similar weight |
| Runtime | 40 minutes | Varies by mode | Similar runtime |
| Carpet Performance | Moderate | Excellent | Good |
| Hard Floor Performance | Excellent | Good | Good |
| Attachments | None | Multiple | Multiple |
| Pet Hair Performance | Excellent (K9 model) | Good | Good |
Data compiled from comparison testing
Real-World User Experience
Pros Based on User Feedback
- Excellent maneuverability makes cleaning less physically demanding
- Effective on pet hair across various surfaces
- Convenient cordless operation with sufficient battery life for most homes
- Easy storage due to compact, upright design
- Simple emptying mechanism reduces mess
- Quieter operation compared to many traditional vacuums
Cons and Limitations
- Lacks power for deep carpet cleaning
- No attachments for crevices, stairs, or above-floor cleaning
- Small dust bin requires frequent emptying during whole-house cleans
- The AirLOC system can be frustrating on thin rugs, which may get sucked up into the brush
- Not suitable for tight corners due to the lack of a detail nozzle
Is the Gtech AirRAM 2 Right For You?
Who Should Consider the Gtech AirRAM 2?
- Pet owners dealing with daily fur accumulation
- Those with mostly hard floors or low-pile carpets
- People who value convenience and easy storage
- Individuals with mobility issues who appreciate lightweight, maneuverable cleaning tools
- Homes requiring quick, regular cleaning rather than intensive deep cleans
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
- Those with mostly thick carpets requiring deep cleaning
- People needing a versatile vacuum for stairs, curtains, and cars
- Large homes requiring more than 40 minutes of continuous cleaning
- Anyone preferring a single vacuum for all cleaning tasks
Lifespan and Long-Term Reliability
The Gtech battery typically delivers consistent performance for 18-24 months with regular use. The removable, replaceable battery is a significant advantage, as you can easily replace it when performance declines rather than buying a new vacuum.
Gtech offers a standard 2-year warranty on their vacuums, which covers manufacturing defects but not normal wear and tear including batteries. With proper maintenance (regular filter cleaning, timely battery replacement, and clearing of blockages), users can expect several years of reliable service.
Conclusion: Final Verdict
The Gtech AirRAM 2 is a specialized cleaning tool that excels in specific scenarios rather than being a one-size-fits-all solution. For pet owners with hard floors or low-pile carpets who need a convenient, everyday vacuum for controlling fur and light debris, it’s an excellent choice – particularly at its U.S. price point of around $164.
However, if you need powerful deep cleaning, versatility for above-floor surfaces, or have mostly thick carpets, you might find it lacking in performance and need to supplement it with other cleaning tools or consider a more powerful model.
The Gtech AirRAM 2 K9 variant specifically addresses pet hair challenges with reinforced construction and features like the built-in headlight, making it worth the additional investment for animal lovers.