In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, a cleaner includes a gravity compensation apparatus for applying compensation force to a handle unit, the gravity compensation apparatus having an elastic member connected to one side of the handle unit to generate compensation force and a sliding member for making translational movement in conjunction with turning motion of the handle unit to keep the compensation force in a constant direction regardless of an angle of the handle unit. The torque due to gravity applied to a handle unit of a vacuum cleaner may be precisely compensated, thereby relieving the burden of the user from the weight of the handle unit while the user holds the handle unit for cleaning.