Handheld Steamer vs Steam Genie: Which to Choose?
By Buy Kettles, Toasters, Irons & More Online | Russell Hobbs UK | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Comparisons
Compare Russell Hobbs Steam Genie handheld steamers: from the compact Easy Store to the powerful Maestro. Find the best fit for your travel and home needs.
Quick answer
For most people, the Steam Genie 2-in-1 offers the best balance of power and versatility, while the compact Easy Store is ideal for travel and quick touch-ups. The Maestro suits heavy-duty home use with its large tank and ironing capability.
Why the Steam Genie lineup differs
Russell Hobbs offers several Steam Genie handheld steamers, each designed for different needs. The key differences lie in tank size, steam output, and whether they include an ironing plate. Understanding these trade-offs helps you choose the right one for your lifestyle.
If you travel frequently, portability and quick heat-up matter more than tank capacity. If you steam multiple garments at home, a larger tank saves refill trips. And if you face stubborn creases, a model with an ironing plate can be a game-changer.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Easy Store vs 2-in-1: Choose the Easy Store for portability and quick heat-up (45 seconds) but accept a smaller tank. Choose the 2-in-1 for an ironing plate that tackles stubborn creases, at the cost of slightly more bulk. If you only need to de-wrinkle and refresh, the Easy Store is lighter; if you need pressing power, the 2-in-1 wins.
- 2-in-1 vs Maestro: The Maestro offers a much larger 750ml tank (fewer refills) and a self-clean function, but it's heavier and less travel-friendly. The 2-in-1 is more compact and still has an ironing plate. For home use where you steam multiple items, the Maestro's tank size is worth the extra weight.
- Budget vs features: The standard Steam Genie (not shown) is the most affordable, but lacks the ironing plate and larger tank. If you need those features, invest in the 2-in-1 or Maestro. Set your budget and prioritize must-have features before comparing prices.
Steam Genie models compared
- Steam Genie™ Easy Store Handheld Clothes Steamer: The Easy Store heats up in 45 seconds, delivers 20g steam output, and eliminates up to 99.9% of bacteria in 60 seconds. This makes it a fast, hygienic option for quick freshen-ups and travel, but its smaller tank means more refills for larger jobs.
Steam Genie™ Easy Store Handheld Clothes Steamer - Steam Genie™ 2 in 1 Handheld Clothes Steamer: The 2-in-1 combines steaming and ironing features, and kills up to 99.9% of bacteria in 60 seconds. The ironing plate lets you press stubborn creases like a traditional iron, making it more versatile than a pure steamer.
Steam Genie™ 2 in 1 Handheld Clothes Steamer - Steam Genie Maestro™ 2-in-1 Handheld Steamer: The Maestro has a 750ml water tank and a 2-in-1 steaming and ironing function, plus self-clean to prevent limescale. Its large tank and self-clean make it a low-maintenance choice for frequent, heavy use, though it's bulkier than other models.
Who should choose which
Best for
- Travelers and quick touch-ups: Easy Store
- Everyday home use with stubborn creases: 2-in-1
- Heavy-duty home steaming and low maintenance: Maestro
Not for
- Those needing long continuous steam sessions without refills: Easy Store
- Those wanting a lightweight, travel-friendly steamer: Maestro
