Dupray Neat Steam Cleaner vs Kärcher SC 3 Easy Fix

The Dupray Neat is the better pick for most homes: its 1.6 L boiler runs about 50 minutes per fill and heats in roughly 8 minutes, while the Kärcher SC 3 Easy Fix heats in about 40 seconds but holds only 1 L and needs refills sooner. The Neat's 17-piece kit covers tile, grout, upholstery and car interiors, and its 4 kg body is easier to carry up stairs than the 7.1 kg Kärcher. The Kärcher wins on convenience: faster heat-up, a 7.2 m cord and a built-in descaling cartridge that reduces limescale maintenance. Owners of both rate them well, with the Neat slightly ahead at 4.4 versus 4.2.

• Choose the Dupray Neat if you want long uninterrupted cleaning sessions, a lighter unit to carry, and a large accessory kit for floors, grout, upholstery and cars.
• Choose the Kärcher SC 3 Easy Fix if you want near-instant steam, a longer cord and easy limescale care in a hard-water area.