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Philips FC9556/09 Review | 52 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£170
Avg. price in US: ~$190
Suction power (AW): 220 AW
Battery runtime: N/A minutes
Capacity: 1.5 L
Weight: 4.5 kg

Philips FC9556/09 review. Compare 52 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Vacuum Cleaners category and whether it is worth buying.

7.3

Very good

7.1

Very good

8.2

Excellent

5.9
Hard floors
Score components:
30.0%
4.0
Mopping support
25.0%
6.3
Weight
20.0%
7.3
Noise level (Min-Max)
15.0%
10
Capacity
10.0%
1.0
Power consumption
5.9
Pet homes
Score components:
30.0%
4.0
Mini motorized brush
25.0%
4.0
Anti-tangle brush
20.0%
10
Capacity
15.0%
7.3
Noise level (Min-Max)
10.0%
6.3
Weight

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#7 in Best Philips Vacuums
#7 in Best Philips Bagless Vacuums
#12 in Best Powerful Corded Vacuums
#22 in Best Bagless Canister Vacuums
#35 in Best Canister Vacuums
#44 in Best Corded Vacuums
#68 in Best Powerful Bagless Vacuums
#70 in Best Vacuums For Hardwood Floors
#73 in Best Powerful Vacuums
#107 in Best Quiet Vacuums
#114 in Best Vacuums For Carpets
#152 in Best Vacuums For Sofas And Mattresses
#180 in Best Cyclonic Vacuums
#196 in Best Bagless Vacuums
#211 in Best Vacuum Cleaners

Verdict

The Philips FC9556/09 PowerPro Active is a compact, 4.5 kg corded canister vacuum cleaner powered by a high-efficiency 900W motor with over 50,000 RPM, achieving an operating radius of 9 metres with a 6-metre power cord. Key characteristics include PowerCyclone 7 aerodynamic technology, a 1.5-litre bagless dust container designed for one-handed hygienic emptying, and an Allergy H13 filtration system that captures 99.9% of fine dust. Its main pros are excellent versatility supplied by 6 attachments—including the 3-in-1 TriActive+ nozzle, a dedicated turbo brush for pet hair, and a parquet nozzle—alongside adjustable electronic power control, rubber wheels, and a quiet 76 dB noise level. However, a notable con is that the 6-metre power cord can feel somewhat short and restrictive for larger homes, necessitating frequent outlet changes.

Technical Specifications of vacuum cleaner Philips FC9556/09

Overall score

7.3

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the vacuum cleaner.

When it matters: When you prefer a vacuum cleaner that has been chosen and reviewed by many other buyers.

Performance

7.6

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Suction power (AW)

What it is: A measure of usable suction output in air watts, combining airflow and pressure into one cleaning-power figure.

When it matters: When you want the clearest single number for overall cleaning power on carpets and stubborn debris.

Importance: HIGH

Suction power (kPa)

What it is: The maximum suction pressure the vacuum can generate, expressed in kilopascals.

When it matters: When you compare how strongly different vacuums can pull dirt from seams, rugs, and tight surfaces.

Importance: HIGH

Airflow

What it is: The volume of air the vacuum moves during operation, which helps indicate how effectively debris can be carried into the dust container.

When it matters: When you want better pickup of lighter debris such as dust, crumbs, and hair across larger floor areas.

Importance: HIGH

?

Motor type

What it is: The motor design used to drive suction, such as brushless or universal construction.

When it matters: When you care about motor durability, efficiency, and how modern the vacuum drive system is.

Importance: LOW

?

Power consumption

What it is: The amount of electrical power the vacuum draws while operating, measured in watts.

When it matters: When you want to limit electricity use or compare efficiency between vacuums with similar cleaning power.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

5.9

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Cordless

What it is: Indicates whether the vacuum can run without being connected to a power cable.

When it matters: When you want to move quickly between rooms, stairs, or cars without trailing a power cord.

Importance: MEDIUM

Battery runtime

What it is: The maximum operating time the vacuum can deliver on a full charge in standard use.

When it matters: When you want to finish your normal cleaning routine on one charge.

Importance: HIGH

N/A

Charging time

What it is: The time required to recharge the battery from empty to full.

When it matters: When you need the vacuum ready again quickly after a short cleaning session.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Battery capacity

What it is: The total amount of energy or charge the battery can store before recharging is needed.

When it matters: When you want a rough idea of how much stored energy the battery pack holds.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery voltage

What it is: The nominal electrical voltage supplied by the battery pack.

When it matters: When you compare cordless models and want another clue about battery system strength.

Importance: LOW

?

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Filtration

9.4

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Filter class

What it is: The filtration standard or class used to describe how finely the vacuum filters outgoing air.

When it matters: When you care about capturing finer dust and keeping the exhaust air cleaner.

Importance: MEDIUM

Minimum overall efficiency

What it is: The minimum particle retention efficiency implied by the stated filter grade.

When it matters: When you want a clearer view of how much fine particulate the filter grade can block at minimum.

Importance: MEDIUM

Suitable for allergy sufferers

What it is: Indicates whether the filtration setup is strong enough to make the vacuum more appropriate for allergy-sensitive homes.

When it matters: When someone at home reacts badly to dust and you want a safer filtration setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Capacity

What it is: The amount of dust or debris the container or bag can hold before it needs to be emptied or replaced.

When it matters: When you want to empty the dust container less often during bigger cleaning jobs.

Importance: MEDIUM

Bagless

What it is: Indicates whether the vacuum collects dirt in a reusable dust container instead of disposable bags.

When it matters: When you prefer not to buy replacement bags and want to empty a reusable bin instead.

Importance: LOW

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Attachments

7.9

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Main brush type

What it is: The construction style of the main floor brush that makes primary contact with the surface being cleaned.

When it matters: When you need the floor head design to match your mix of carpets and hard floors.

Importance: LOW

classic

Roller type

What it is: The roller material or profile used to move across the floor and lift debris.

When it matters: When you want the contact surface to suit delicate floors, embedded dirt, or hair pickup better.

Importance: LOW

?

Anti-tangle brush

What it is: A brush design intended to reduce hair wrapping and tangling around the roller.

When it matters: When long hair regularly wraps around the brush and you want less manual cleaning.

Importance: LOW

Mini motorized brush

What it is: A small powered cleaning head intended for upholstery, stairs, and concentrated dirt or pet hair.

When it matters: When you clean sofas, stairs, or pet beds where a powered small head works better than a standard nozzle.

Importance: LOW

Suitable for pet owners

What it is: Indicates whether the vacuum is especially suited to homes where pet hair is a regular cleaning concern.

When it matters: When pet hair is one of the main reasons you are buying a vacuum in the first place.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Design

5.6

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Vacuum type

What it is: Identifies the vacuum's overall form factor, such as stick, canister, upright, handheld, or wet-dry.

When it matters: When storage, maneuverability, and your usual cleaning jobs matter more than raw suction numbers.

Importance: LOW

canister

Weight

What it is: The total mass of the vacuum cleaner, which affects carrying comfort and ease of use.

When it matters: When you carry the vacuum upstairs, around the house, or use it for longer sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

2-in-1 design

What it is: A design that allows the vacuum to be used in two form factors, typically as a stick unit and a handheld unit.

When it matters: When you want one machine to handle both floors and quick handheld jobs.

Importance: LOW

Self-standing

What it is: Indicates whether the vacuum can remain upright on its own without being leaned against support.

When it matters: When you want to pause mid-clean without laying the vacuum on the floor or wall.

Importance: LOW

Adjustable tube height

What it is: Indicates whether the tube length can be adjusted to change reach and handling height.

When it matters: When different users share the vacuum or you want a more comfortable reach.

Importance: LOW

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Smart features

4.0

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Auto suction adjustment

What it is: A function that changes suction automatically based on floor type or detected dirt load.

When it matters: When you want the vacuum to react by itself as you move between floor types or dirt levels.

Importance: LOW

Dust particle sensor

What it is: A sensor that monitors fine debris levels to inform or automate cleaning behavior.

When it matters: When you want extra feedback in dusty rooms instead of relying only on what you can see.

Importance: LOW

LED display

What it is: A built-in illuminated display used to show status information such as battery, mode, or alerts.

When it matters: When you want cleaner status feedback for battery, mode, and warnings at a glance.

Importance: LOW

Nozzle light

What it is: A light built into the cleaning head to improve visibility in dark areas under furniture or along edges.

When it matters: When you vacuum under beds, sofas, or dark corners where hidden dust is easy to miss.

Importance: LOW

Mopping support

What it is: Indicates whether the appliance can also wipe or mop surfaces in addition to vacuuming.

When it matters: When you want one appliance to handle both dry vacuuming and light floor wiping.

Importance: LOW

Philips FC9556/09 vs the average vacuum cleaner

Why is Philips FC9556/09 better than the average vacuum cleaner?

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Higher filter class
Philips FC9556/9 uses a better filter class than the average vacuum cleaner (hepa 13 vs hepa).
What it is: The filtration standard or class used to describe how finely the vacuum filters outgoing air.
When it matters: When you care about capturing finer dust and keeping the exhaust air cleaner.
Importance: MEDIUM
Philips FC9556/9 uses a better filter class than the average vacuum cleaner (hepa 13 vs hepa).hepa 13 vs hepa
70 AW stronger suction
Philips FC9556/9 has higher suction power than the average vacuum cleaner (220 AW vs 150 AW).
What it is: A measure of usable suction output in air watts, combining airflow and pressure into one cleaning-power figure.
When it matters: When you want the clearest single number for overall cleaning power on carpets and stubborn debris.
Importance: HIGH
Philips FC9556/9 has higher suction power than the average vacuum cleaner (220 AW vs 150 AW).220 AW vs 150 AW
Includes parquet brush
Philips FC9556/9 includes a parquet brush, the average vacuum cleaner does not.
What it is: A dedicated floor brush intended to clean parquet or other delicate hard surfaces more gently.
When it matters: When you have wood or delicate hard floors and want gentler contact while cleaning.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 includes a parquet brush, the average vacuum cleaner does not.
Adjustable tube height
Philips FC9556/9 has adjustable tube height, the average vacuum cleaner does not.
What it is: Indicates whether the tube length can be adjusted to change reach and handling height.
When it matters: When different users share the vacuum or you want a more comfortable reach.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 has adjustable tube height, the average vacuum cleaner does not.
30 mm wider cleaning path
Philips FC9556/9 has a wider cleaning path than the average vacuum cleaner (290 mm vs 260 mm).
What it is: The width of the area covered by the main floor head in a single forward pass.
When it matters: When you clean large open floors and want to cover more area in fewer passes.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 has a wider cleaning path than the average vacuum cleaner (290 mm vs 260 mm).290 mm vs 260 mm
0.5 L larger dust bin
Philips FC9556/9 has a larger dust capacity than the average vacuum cleaner (1.5 L vs 1 L).
What it is: The amount of dust or debris the container or bag can hold before it needs to be emptied or replaced.
When it matters: When you want to empty the dust container less often during bigger cleaning jobs.
Importance: MEDIUM
Philips FC9556/9 has a larger dust capacity than the average vacuum cleaner (1.5 L vs 1 L).1.5 L vs 1 L
70 AW stronger suction
Philips FC9556/9 has higher suction power than the average vacuum cleaner (220 AW vs 150 AW).
30 mm wider cleaning path
Philips FC9556/9 has a wider cleaning path than the average vacuum cleaner (290 mm vs 260 mm).
Higher filter class
Philips FC9556/9 uses a better filter class than the average vacuum cleaner (hepa 13 vs hepa).
0.5 L larger dust bin
Philips FC9556/9 has a larger dust capacity than the average vacuum cleaner (1.5 L vs 1 L).
Includes parquet brush
Philips FC9556/9 includes a parquet brush, the average vacuum cleaner does not.
Adjustable tube height
Philips FC9556/9 has adjustable tube height, the average vacuum cleaner does not.

Why is Philips FC9556/09 worse than the average vacuum cleaner?

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2.6 kPa weaker suction
Philips FC9556/9 has lower suction pressure than the average vacuum cleaner (17.4 kPa vs 20 kPa).
300 W higher power draw
Philips FC9556/9 draws more power than the average vacuum cleaner (900 W vs 600 W).
0.5 m shorter power cord
Philips FC9556/9 has a shorter power cord than the average vacuum cleaner (6 m vs 6.5 m).
No handheld conversion
Philips FC9556/9 does not have a 2-in-1 design, the average vacuum cleaner does.
27.8% higher weight
Philips FC9556/9 is heavier than the average vacuum cleaner (4.5 kg vs 3.52 kg).
147 mm deeper body
Philips FC9556/9 is deeper than the average vacuum cleaner (412 mm vs 265 mm).
15 mm wider body
Philips FC9556/9 is wider than the average vacuum cleaner (280 mm vs 265 mm).
No handheld conversion
Philips FC9556/9 does not have a 2-in-1 design, the average vacuum cleaner does.
What it is: A design that allows the vacuum to be used in two form factors, typically as a stick unit and a handheld unit.
When it matters: When you want one machine to handle both floors and quick handheld jobs.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 does not have a 2-in-1 design, the average vacuum cleaner does.
2.6 kPa weaker suction
Philips FC9556/9 has lower suction pressure than the average vacuum cleaner (17.4 kPa vs 20 kPa).
What it is: The maximum suction pressure the vacuum can generate, expressed in kilopascals.
When it matters: When you compare how strongly different vacuums can pull dirt from seams, rugs, and tight surfaces.
Importance: HIGH
Philips FC9556/9 has lower suction pressure than the average vacuum cleaner (17.4 kPa vs 20 kPa).17.4 kPa vs 20 kPa
300 W higher power draw
Philips FC9556/9 draws more power than the average vacuum cleaner (900 W vs 600 W).
What it is: The amount of electrical power the vacuum draws while operating, measured in watts.
When it matters: When you want to limit electricity use or compare efficiency between vacuums with similar cleaning power.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 draws more power than the average vacuum cleaner (900 W vs 600 W).900 W vs 600 W
27.8% higher weight
Philips FC9556/9 is heavier than the average vacuum cleaner (4.5 kg vs 3.52 kg).
What it is: The total mass of the vacuum cleaner, which affects carrying comfort and ease of use.
When it matters: When you carry the vacuum upstairs, around the house, or use it for longer sessions.
Importance: MEDIUM
Philips FC9556/9 is heavier than the average vacuum cleaner (4.5 kg vs 3.52 kg).4.5 kg vs 3.52 kg
147 mm deeper body
Philips FC9556/9 is deeper than the average vacuum cleaner (412 mm vs 265 mm).
What it is: The front-to-back measurement of the vacuum body or main assembly.
When it matters: When front-to-back size affects where the vacuum can be stored or parked.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 is deeper than the average vacuum cleaner (412 mm vs 265 mm).412 mm vs 265 mm
0.5 m shorter power cord
Philips FC9556/9 has a shorter power cord than the average vacuum cleaner (6 m vs 6.5 m).
What it is: The physical length of the mains cable supplied for corded use.
When it matters: When you clean larger rooms with a corded model and want fewer outlet changes.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 has a shorter power cord than the average vacuum cleaner (6 m vs 6.5 m).6 m vs 6.5 m
15 mm wider body
Philips FC9556/9 is wider than the average vacuum cleaner (280 mm vs 265 mm).
What it is: The side-to-side dimension of the vacuum body or main cleaning head.
When it matters: When the vacuum must fit specific storage spaces or move around tight furniture layouts.
Importance: LOW
Philips FC9556/9 is wider than the average vacuum cleaner (280 mm vs 265 mm).280 mm vs 265 mm

Graphic comparison of Philips FC9556/09 and other vacuum cleaners

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about Philips FC9556/09?

Strong suction power that effectively picks up dust and pet hair in a single pass.
Lightweight and compact design making it easy to carry up and down stairs.
Generous accessory bundle including a TriActive nozzle, parquet brush, and a large turbo brush for hair removal.
Integrated accessories like the dust brush built into the handle for quick, convenient access.
Efficient Allergy H13 filtration system that traps fine dust particles, which is excellent for allergy sufferers.
Easy to open, empty, and clean bagless dust container without creating a mess.
Highly manoeuvrable body equipped with large rubber wheels that protect hard floors from scratches.

What customers dislike about Philips FC9556/09?

The vacuum hose can feel quite stiff and rigid during early use.
The unmotorised turbo brush attachment requires extra physical effort to push across some carpets.
The 1.5-litre dust container fills up quickly and demands frequent emptying in larger homes.
The overall noise level is considered relatively high by some users.
A few users report a noticeable drop in suction performance over several months of extended use.

Expert reviews

freitest.de

25/07/2022

Summary of the review

Philips 5000 Series Bagless Vacuum Cleaner

The Philips 5000 Series bagless vacuum cleaner is recognized for its compact design, exceptional suction power, and user-friendly features, including a quick-assembly, eco-friendly system with rubberized wheels and integrated nozzle storage. While it offers easy cleaning and maintenance, the review highlights significant drawbacks, including a high noise level, restricted wheel movement that only allows for forward/backward motion, and a long drying time for the dust container.

test-achats.be

01/11/2019

Summary of the review

PHILIPS FC9556/09 POWERPRO ACTIVE Review - Testachats

Testachats rates the Philips FC9556/09 PowerPro Active as a "Good Quality" (62/100) bagless vacuum, highlighting its highly efficient energy consumption, durable motor and cable reel, and superior pet hair removal from carpets via the turbo brush. The review also points out limitations, including average user-friendliness and cleaning performance on hard floors, with poor efficacy for removing dust from deep crevices.

test-aankoop.be

05/10/2019

Summary of the review

PHILIPS FC9556/09 POWERPRO ACTIVE test and review

The Test Aankoop review of the Philips FC9556/09 PowerPro Active characterizes it as a bagless cylinder vacuum cleaner featuring a 650W maximum power motor, a measured max suction of 122W, and a 9-meter operating radius. While the review acknowledges its compact 6 kg frame as a practical advantage for maneuverability, it details functional limitations within specific household parameters.

ocu.org

16/11/2021

Summary of the review

PHILIPS FC9556/09: reviews | OCU

The OCU awarded the Philips FC9556/09 bagless cylinder vacuum the "Compra Maestra" title for its high-efficiency 900W motor, PowerCyclone 7 technology, versatile nozzle set, and 4.5 kg design. Pros include excellent suction for deep cleaning and pet hair removal, alongside an Allergy H13 filter, while cons involve losing suction as the 1.5-litre container fills, a 6-metre cord, and the need for frequent maintenance.

altroconsumo.it

N/D

Summary of the review

PHILIPS FC9556/09 Vacuum Cleaner: Test and Review. For further details and to read the full review, visit Altroconsumo.

The Philips FC9556/09 PowerPro Active bagless vacuum cleaner receives a "Good" rating from Altroconsumo, featuring excellent energy efficiency, a robust motor, and an effective turbo brush for pet hair removal. While it includes an efficient Allergy H13 filter, the device is limited by average ease of use, only mediocre cleaning performance on hard floors, and poor dirt extraction from deep crevices.

consumentenbond.nl

02/10/2020

Summary of the review

Philips 5000 series FC9556/09 - Test, Reviews & Prices

The Philips 5000 series FC9556/09 is a 900-watt, bagless canister vacuum cleaner featuring a 9-meter operating radius and specialized accessories including a hard floor brush and a large turbo brush for debris removal. While offering strong performance, the 6.0 kg unit is considered heavy, operates at a 76 dB noise level, and has a maximum telescopic tube length of 83 cm, which may be short for taller users.

test-aankoop.be

01/09/2019

Summary of the review

Philips FC9556/09 PowerPro Active test and review

According to the Test Aankoop expert review, the Philips FC9556/09 PowerPro Active is a reasonably priced, compact bagless vacuum offering excellent hard floor performance, a comprehensive accessory kit, and a hygienic Allergy H13 filter. While suitable for smaller homes, the model is hindered by mediocre carpet cleaning results, a limited 9-meter operating radius, and a notably loud 76–77 dB noise output.

test-achats.be

N/A

Summary of the review

PHILIPS FC9556/09 POWERPRO ACTIVE Review - Testachats

The Philips FC9556/09 PowerPro Active is a mid-range bagless vacuum cleaner that offers average overall performance, featuring good energy efficiency, excellent motor endurance, and effective pet hair removal, especially with its turbo brush. However, it is limited by mediocre cleaning on hard surfaces, poor performance in crevices, and average user-friendliness.

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