The typical carpet sweeper uses static electricity to help draw in debris to the bristles. The more the bristles rotate along the floor the greater the charge will become. This is why some carpet sweepers do not work as well on hardwood or tiled floors. A rechargeable sweeper uses a small motor to turn the bristles very rapidly.
When comparing a traditional carpet sweeper and a rechargeable, you have to consider the price (Rechargeable sweepers tend to be more expensive) as well as the cost to operate. A rechargeable sweeper uses electricity and may also result in future expenses such as replacing the battery and the charger when they eventually start to fail.