Vax Air Stretch Upright Vacuum Cleaner; Over 17m Reach; High performance vs Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX PowerLite Stretch Upright Vacuum Cleaner

Price and Value Comparison

The Vax Air Stretch is significantly more affordable at £79.00, while the Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX PowerLite costs £99.99 — a difference of £20.99, or about 26% cheaper for the Vax. Although both are priced competitively within their segment, the Vax offers greater value for budget-conscious buyers. The Morphy Richards model commands a premium price despite not offering a higher capacity bin or additional motorised tools beyond the standard set. For those prioritising cost efficiency without sacrificing core cleaning performance, the Vax delivers better bang for buck.

Reach and Cleaning Range

The Vax Air Stretch provides an impressive 17m reach, combining a stretch hose with a long cord, making it ideal for large homes or multi-level cleaning. The Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX offers a 9m cord and a 1.8m extension hose, which together enable access to high or distant areas but fall short of the Vax’s maximum reach. While both allow cleaning of stairs and tall furniture, the Vax’s extended range gives it a clear edge in versatility across larger spaces. The Vax's 17m capability is explicitly highlighted as a key feature, setting it apart from the Morphy Richards’ more modest reach.

Dust Bin Capacity and Emptying Convenience

The Vax Air Stretch features a full-size capacity bin, reducing the need to empty frequently during cleaning sessions. The Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX includes a 4L extra-large dust bin, which also minimises interruptions. However, the Vax’s description does not specify a one-button release mechanism, unlike the Morphy Richards, which explicitly states its one-button release enables quick and hygienic emptying. While both offer generous bins, the Morphy Richards has a design advantage in ease of emptying, though the Vax’s full-size bin still supports longer cleaning runs without interruption.

Suction Performance and Filtration

Both vacuums use multi-cyclonic technology to maintain consistent suction and prevent filter clogging. The Vax claims no loss of suction throughout operation, emphasising reliability on carpets and hard floors. The Morphy Richards highlights its advanced multi-cyclone filtration system specifically engineered to separate fine dust and debris, making it particularly suitable for allergy sufferers and pet owners. The Morphy Richards also holds an A energy rating, indicating efficient power use without compromising suction strength. This suggests the Morphy Richards may deliver more refined air quality management, especially in sensitive environments.

Floor Type Versatility and Brush Head Features

The Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX allows adjustment across five brush settings, enabling optimal performance on long-pile, low-pile, and hard flooring types. The Vax Air Stretch does not mention adjustable height settings, implying a fixed or less flexible brush head. Additionally, the Morphy Richards includes an LED-illuminated floor brush that lights up dark corners and under furniture, enhancing visibility during cleaning. The Vax lacks any lighting feature, relying solely on ambient light. This makes the Morphy Richards superior for thorough cleaning in dimly lit areas.

Additional Tools and Specialised Cleaning

The Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX comes with a turbo pet tool, a 7-inch crevice tool, a brush tool, and an upholstery tool — all designed for versatile surface cleaning. The Vax Air Stretch includes a 3-in-1 tool with crevice, upholstery, and dusting functions, but no mention is made of a motorised or turbo pet attachment. While both provide essential tools, the Morphy Richards offers a more comprehensive kit with dedicated pet-specific cleaning capabilities. Its inclusion of a longer crevice tool and enhanced tool variety supports deeper cleaning in tight spaces and upholstery.

Weight, Ergonomics, and Portability

The Vax Air Stretch weighs just 5kg, making it lightweight and easy to lift and carry, particularly useful when moving between floors. The Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX is described as lightweight with an ergonomic handle, aiding manoeuvrability, though no exact weight is provided. Both models are designed for ease of handling, but the Vax’s specified 5kg weight gives users a concrete benchmark for portability. This makes the Vax a slightly better choice for users seeking minimal physical strain during prolonged use or stair navigation.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Vax Air Stretch if you want a powerful, lightweight upright vacuum with a 17m reach and a full-size bin at a lower price point — it’s about 26% cheaper than the Morphy Richards at £79.00. It excels in coverage and value, especially for larger homes or those needing extended reach. Opt for the Morphy Richards MRXUPRIGHTFLEX only if you prioritise advanced features like an LED-lit floor brush, five-height adjustments, and a turbo pet tool, despite paying £20.99 more. Its A energy rating and 4L bin add convenience, but these benefits come at a higher cost. For most users seeking balance between performance, reach, and affordability, the Vax offers stronger overall value.