Miele HX1 Facelift vs HX2: Which Cordless Stick Vacuum Suits You?

Miele HX1 Facelift vs HX2: Which Cordless Stick Vacuum Suits You?

If you’re researching Miele’s cordless offerings, you might find yourself weighing the HX1 “Facelift” version against the newer HX2 line. While both vacuums adopt the same 3-in-1 architecture (motor/handle and tube configurations), there are meaningful differences in motor, battery, filtration, and usability that could tip the balance — depending on your home, flooring, and preferences.

In this post, we'll compare head-to-head the HX1 Facelift vs HX2 (Triflex HX2), highlight strengths and tradeoffs, and help you decide which is the better fit.

Overview & Key Specs

Let’s start by summarizing the baseline specs for both models (as provided by Miele).

From the spec sheet, HX2 is clearly positioned as the performance upgrade over HX1, especially in motor and filtration. But in practice, there are additional considerations.

Performance & Usability: Where HX2 Pulls Ahead

More Efficient Motor & Suction

Multiple independent comparisons note that the HX2 line delivers stronger performance, particularly under load (e.g. carpets or rugs). RTINGS, for instance, points out that HX2 has a more efficient motor and significantly better battery performance compared to HX1, making it a more capable all-around vacuum.

The improved motor in HX2 is often marketed as a “Digital Efficiency Motor,” promising higher suction with lower energy waste.

Upgraded Filtration — HEPA & Higher Dust Retention

One of the most visible upgrades is in the filtration system. HX2 vacuums use a HEPA lifetime filter with a 99.999% dust retention claim — a notch above HX1’s 99.99% “Hygiene Lifetime” filter. This means HX2 is more appealing for allergy-sensitive households.

Additionally, HX2 incorporates a ComfortClean mechanism in some models that automates filter cleaning (i.e., shaking off dust) — a convenience improvement over HX1’s more manual filter maintenance.

LED Illumination & Smart Brush Behavior

HX2 models often include BrilliantLight LED on the brush head to illuminate dust and particles on dark floors or underneath furniture.

Also, HX2’s Multi Floor XXL electrobrush includes automatic flooring recognition (detecting transitions between carpet and hard floors) to adjust performance.

These small features improve day-to-day usability in real-world cleaning, especially for busy households.

When HX1 Still Has Advantages

Easier Handling on Thick Carpets

In RTINGS’s comparative review, the authors note that HX1’s lower motor power (versus HX2) gives it slightly easier maneuverability on deep or dense carpets — less suction resistance to drag you down. While this might seem counterintuitive, in very plush carpet or shag rugs, that difference can help reduce fatigue.

Simpler & Tried-and-True Design

Because HX1’s architecture is slightly less complex, some users find it more straightforward to maintain and repair (e.g. filter cleaning or servicing). There’s less “automation” (like filter shaking) to go wrong.

Some users also report that HX1’s filter is easier to wash or handle compared to the more intricate cleaning systems on HX2 — depending on which HX2 model you're using.

Cost Considerations

Since HX2 is the newer flagship line, it typically commands a higher retail price. If your space is small (apartment, condo, or under ~1,500 ft²) and your floors are mostly hardwood/tile with occasional rugs, the performance gains of HX2 may not fully justify the premium — making HX1 a very cost-effective option.

Common Trade-Offs & Caveats

• Run time under load: While both claim up to 60 minutes in MIN mode (without brush), actual runtime under typical use (with the brush engaged, higher suction settings) will be less. HX2’s stronger motor may drain battery faster in “Max” mode.

• Dustbin capacity is equal: Both models hold 0.5 L (0.02 cu ft) — there is no win for HX2 here.

• Cleaning & maintenance: HX2’s addition of ComfortClean adds convenience, but also additional mechanical parts that might require maintenance over time.

• User feedback is mixed: On forums, some users praise HX2 for superior suction and usability. Others caution about filter maintenance and battery performance in real-world use — for example, a user complained: “the HX2 uses an insanely dated pleated, non-washable filter design that you twist to clean” (though that comment may refer to specific models)

Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a decision guide based on typical use cases: