Dyson Micro 1.5KG vs. Dyson V15 Detect

In this comparison, we’ll be looking at the Dyson Micro 1.5KG and V15 Detect, two of Dyson’s latest cordless vacuums.

Each introduces a unique feature that makes them a compelling option.

What makes this an interesting comparison is the price difference. The V15 Detect is Dyson’s flagship option right now, while the Micro 1.5K is their lightest and best handheld option, in my opinion.

A quick glance at the Dyson Micro 1.5KG and V15 Detect

Here’s an overview of the power specs, cleaning performance scores, and other results from my various tests.

Airflow tests were done using an anemometer on the extension tube and nozzle.

I used 100 grams for the sand on hard floors test to measure how well it picks up sand. I did the test twice for better consistency.

Introduction to the Dyson Micro 1.5KG and V15 Detect

After launching the V15 Detect, I wasn’t sure what Dyson would do to improve it.

Their products have improved leaps and bounces to early-generation variants.

Dyson has introduced new tech along the way, from the adjustable gates with the V10 to the molecule-counting piezo sensor in the V15.

Every variant has something new, so this detour was a bit surprising for me.

First was the Omni Glide’s 360-degree (what Dyson coins “omnidirectional”) steering.

Then comes the Micro 1.5KG, their lightest cordless vacuum to date at 3.3 pounds.

The Micro 1.5KG and Omni Glide are what Dyson calls hard floor vacuums, specifically designed to clean this surface.

And we’ll compare one of them to the V15 Detect and see how it compares.

Lightweight, Excellent for Small Spaces: Dyson Micro 1.5KG

Before the detour, I thought Dyson vacuums would never shrink back to pre-V10 levels since their weight has increased with every iteration, peaking with the V11 Outsize.

But the Micro 1.5KG is a breath of fresh air as Dyson sheds all the excess weight and goes back to the basics.

Dyson took out every bit of technology found in their full-sized V-series vacuums to prioritize ergonomics and weight reduction.

Dyson also did one thing I didn’t expect: put in a push-button switch.

Something that many of their customers have been appealing they do, and it’s finally here.

Will this be a preview of things to come? Only time will tell.

This lightweight form factor makes this the best Dyson handheld I’ve tested bar none.

It only weighs 2 pounds and 0.9 ounces without any tools, so it’s ergonomically appealing.

Add the push-button switch takes it to another level.

Since there’s no need to squeeze anything, your arm and wrist are more relaxed.

It’s unlike the monster V-series vacuums that’ll make your arms scream in agony after a few minutes.

You can see the size difference in this photo.

It’s a huge difference, especially with the horizontally aligned V10, V11, and V15.

The Dyson Micro is indeed a “micro” version of the V15 Detect and is an excellent option for people who want an extremely lightweight vacuum to clean hard floors.

Premium Price, High-End Performance: Dyson V15 Detect

If performance is high-priority, look no further than the Dyson V15 Detect.

This variant is Dyson’s best performing stick vacuum to date with some intriguing features.

Foremost of these is the green LED light that accentuates almost invisible particles like dust.

The lack of illumination is one of my nitpicks with previous Dyson stick vacuums. And this feature more than makes up for it.

Using a green light provides better dirt-tracking ability than any other LED-equipped stick vacuum.

Even the brightest white light won’t reveal dust as this green light can, and it makes vacuuming more efficient.

Dyson’s next upgrade is the Piezo sensor that counts dirt particles based on size.

I won’t go into detail about how this works. It can count four different particle sizes.

Depending on your preference, I don’t find this feature as helpful, but it can come in handy for some folks.

Under the hood, upgrades include a larger motor and battery, improving its cleaning performance further.

The V15 Detect is better than any Dyson products (including the Outsize) at deep cleaning carpet.

Its sustained deep cleaning performance separates it from the V11-series (Torque Drive and Outsize).

Dyson also tweaked the main nozzle to improve cleaning performance in various categories.

Not only is it laced with soft and stiff bristles, but it also has these combs for untangling hair strands.

It retains the two adjustable gates but with better hair pick-up.

With the addition of the new hair screw tool, the V15 Detect is the best Dyson cord-free product I’ve tested for vacuuming hair.

Similarities between the Dyson Micro and V15 Detect

While it may not look obvious, there are still some similarities between these two vacuums, which we’ll look at in this section.

1. Form factor

The Micro 1.5KG and V15 Detect utilize the same design framework you’ll see in most Dyson cord-free stick vacuums.

It has the same horizontally aligned dustbin, handle under the motor and two-in-one filter.

However, the difference is size.

You can see how big the V15 Detect is in the photo above.

Dyson stripped everything out of the Micro to make it as light as possible.

2. Hygienic system

I mentioned the horizontally aligned dustbin earlier, which brings me to the next point.

Both utilize the same hygienic system where users push a trombone-type lever forward to empty.

But, I feel that Dyson’s full-sized stick vacuum is better at pushing debris out of the dustbin.

For the Micro, dust, and hair particles will stick to the middle filter assembly.

It’s the biggest downside to this downsized hygienic system.

Users will have to remove the exterior frame to dislodge debris sticking to the middle filter piece.

3. 2-in-1 versatility

These stick vacuums also double as handhelds, thanks to the interchangeable tools.

But the Micro is the far better handheld with its lightweight frame and push-button switch.

4. Slim roller

The last similarity is both utilize a slim roller attachment, which I like over the standard roller.

This tool has a lower vertical footprint to clean under low clearance areas.

If you have these spots in your home, make sure to opt for a Dyson with a slim attachment.

Differences between the Dyson Micro 1.5KG and V15 Detect

Next, we’ll look at the differences between these vacuums, and there are plenty.

1. Size and weight

The most obvious is the size and weight disparity. It’s pretty evident with this side-by-side shot.

I weighed these vacuums without any tools, and the V15 Detect doubles the Micro’s weight at 4 pounds and 8.3 ounces (vs. 2 pounds and 0.9 ounces).

Two pounds may not sound much, but every added ounce is a factor for handheld use.

2. Power switch

Since Dyson has manufactured cordless vacuums, they’ve used a trigger switch for all their products until the Omni-Glide came out.

And it’s also the case with the Dyson V15 Detect.

Dyson’s reasoning is the trigger helps extend run time since power is used on-demand.

However, that changed with the Omni-Glide, and it’s an understandable switch since it has a wand-type handle.

But I’m surprised Dyson retained this feature in the Micro 1.5KG.

Could this be a preview of things to come?

Only time will tell, but I like using a push-button switch since it considerably lightens the load on your wrist and arm.

3. Dustbin size

The V15 Detect has the same capacity as the V10 and V11 Torque Drive at 0.77 liters, while the Micro’s dustbin has a much smaller volume at 0.18.

4. Battery capacity and detachability

Dyson utilizes a 3600 mAh li-ion battery, bigger than the Micro’s capacity of 2500 mAh.

The capacity difference is a massive factor with the weight and run time difference, which we’ll look a in a bit.

Also, the Dyson V15 battery is detachable, while the Micro isn’t.

I’m not sure why Dyson didn’t put in a release lever for the Micro since users should want this feature to extend run time easily.

Instead, there are three Torx screws that users will need to loosen to replace the battery.

I hope Dyson rectifies this in future releases.

5. Tools out of the box

Another variance between the Dyson Micro and V15 Detect is the number of tools you’ll get out of the box.

Here’s what you’ll get from the Dyson V15 Detect

1. High torque cleaning head
2. Slim roller attachment
3. Wall mountable dock
4. Extension tube
5. Crevice tool
6. Hair screw tool
7. Wand clip
8. Flexible extension hose
9. Soft dusting brush
10. Combination tool
11. Charger

And the Dyson Micro 1.5KG

1. Dyson Micro vacuum
2. Extension wand
3. Combination tool
4. Mini turbo brush
5. Charger
6. Wall mount
7. Micro roller

Please note that the Micro variant I have is the Asian version with a dark gray finish.

North American consumers will get three more tools: light pipe crevice, worktop tool, and wand clip.

So the number of attachments is about the same.

I hope that Dyson comes up with a Hair screw tool for their hard floor vacuums as it’s quite helpful for cleaning long hair on upholstery or carpeted stairs.

Also, the V15 Detect has the standard brush roll, something not available with the Dyson Micro since it’s a hard floor vacuum.

But the surprising thing is it still can pick up debris on carpets despite the omission.

6. Interface

The Dyson V15 Detect has an interactive LCD screen that shows various data points like run time, power settings, and the Piezo sensor readout.

The Micro 1.5KG doesn’t have this LCD interface, and understandably so since Dyson wants to make it as light as possible.

7. Filter

While both vacuums utilize the same filter-typer, the V15 Detect’s filter is visibly larger.

Both use the same 2-in-1 pre and post-motor filter Dyson has utilized in the V10 models and later.

These filters are washable and considered lifetime products, so technically, there’s no need to replace them.

But still, I’d recommend purchasing extra filters to avoid any downtime.

Ergonomics comparison

One of the biggest differences between the V15 Detect and Micro 1.5KG is ergonomics.

While I like the V15’s light steering, it pales compared to the Micro because of the weight difference.

Not having a trigger also explains why the Micro feels feather-light, especially without the trigger.

Make note mistake, the V15 steers well, particularly with the slim roller on hard floors.

But you’ll feel the added weight the longer you use it.

Another advantage for the Micro is the narrower nozzle, which fits nicely in tighter spaces.

Small homeowners will benefit more from the Micro’s compact frame than the V15 Detect.

Interface comparison

Another glaring difference is the interface.

The Dyson V15 Detect has all the bells and whistles for a cordless stick vacuum with a particle counter monitor in the middle.

Users will also enjoy the run time monitor and see how much time is left before the battery is drained.

In contrast, the Micro 1.5KG doesn’t have any of these features, not even a battery indicator.

It only has this single LED that flashes red when it’s close to empty.

But Dyson didn’t put anything fancy to minimize weight.

If you don’t mind these limitations, the ergonomic benefits will be more than worth it.

Battery and run time comparison

The Dyson V15 Detect has a larger battery (3600 mAh vs. 2500 mAh), which runs longer.

The V15 nearly tripled the Micro’s run time with the soft roller attachment in the lowest setting.

And this result reflects in the real world since Dyson’s slim roller attachments don’t require much airflow to pick up debris.

Users can leave it at the default setting, and it picks up dirt fine.

That number drastically goes down for the V15 in the auto setting on carpet, but it’s still a decent range with how well it vacuums debris.

Airflow comparison

Next, we’ll look at how much power these vacuums have, looking primarily at airflow.

For these experiments, I used an anemometer on the wand and nozzle.

There’s a sizable variance between these two variants with airflow and understandably since the V15 is designed for heavy carpet usage.

But the good news for the Micro 1.5KG, airflow isn’t a requirement since its micro roller attachment has good enough agitation for surface debris pick up.

Another test I’m working on is suction, where I use a water lift gauge and Y vacuum gauge typically used for central vacuums.

The Dyson V15 is near the top, while the Micro at the bottom.

Fortunately for the Micro, high suction isn’t a requirement since it’s a hard floor vacuum.

The consensus among vacuum enthusiasts is a water lift gauge + Y-gauge is a more accurate method of checking suction.

Airflow tests are also a good way of comparing models’ differences, but there will be a margin for error.

The unsealed Y-gauge result represents the working suction of a vacuum, and it’s the most crucial figure of the three I enumerated.

Both unsealed experiments (Y-gauge and direct from the water lift gauge) represent the full suction potential.

You can see the disparity between the Dyson Micro 1.5KG and V15 Detect with the unsealed test and why the latter is better suited for carpet.

Cleaning performance comparison

Despite the suction disparity, cleaning results aren’t far off, at least on carpet, where the Micro 1.5KG was above average!

These scores are proof how of the micro roller’s high-end agitation.

And I’ve been using both extensively inside our home. I don’t see much of a difference between these two in terms of debris pick-up.

The V15 is much better on carpet since it’s built to clean this surface.

Which is better on hard floors?

As I’ve said, there’s not much difference between the two. I’d say it’s a minimal variance with the percentages; even the sand of hard floor tests was close (99.8% vs. 99.7%).

Here’s a before and after shot for the Dyson Micro.

And for the V15 Detect

But other factors may come into consideration, such as the cleaning path (wide vs. narrow) or whether you want the green LED light to amplify dust particles.

Edge cleaning

Again, not much difference with cleaning edges.

Here are the results for the Dyson Micro.

And the V15 Detect.

Both vacuums did exceptionally well cleaning this area.

Hair wrap comparison

The Dyson V15 Detect is one of the best cordless stick vacuums resisting hair tangles on hard floors and carpet.

It picked up 100% on both five and seven-inch tests on BOTH surfaces that I had to try it on longer hair strands I don’t usually do.

Here are the results on hard floors.

• 5-inch: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 7-inch: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 9-inch: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 11-inch: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 12-inch: 80.6% inside bin; 19.4% on the brush

And carpet

• 5-inch: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 7-inch: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 9-inch: 100% inside bin; 0% on the brush
• 11-inch: 99% inside bin; 1% on the brush
• 12-inch: 98% inside bin; 2% on the brush

The combs above the standard brush roll help it resist tangles better than early Dyson stick vacuum models like the V10, V11 Torque Drive, and V11 Outsize.

In comparison, the Dyson Micro 1.5KG was also decent, but it didn’t get the perfect score of the V15.

• 5-inch: 96% inside the dustbin; 4% on the roller
• 7-inch: 88% inside the dustbin; 12% on the roller

It was worse in the 7-inch test on the hard floor than the V15 on carpet, which is understandable since it doesn’t have any active anti-tangle system.

But for daily cleaning tasks inside homes without pets, hair wrap shouldn’t be an issue.

One thing to note for both vacuums is large quantities of hair will stick inside the dustbin.

Check out hair sticking inside the V15 dustbin.

And Micro 1.5KG.

For pet owners, emptying hair can be messy.

Which is better on carpet?

One differentiating factor between the Micro 1.5KG and V15 Detect is their carpet cleaning ability.

The V15 Detect was built for cleaning this surface thanks to its redesigned high torque nozzle.

Dyson added combos and some tweaks with the bristle layout, thus improving agitation better.

Looking at the deep cleaning results quickly shows the disparity between the two vacuums.

• Dyson V15 Detect: 100%
• Dyson Micro 1.5KG: 75%

However, the Dyson Micro surprised me with how well it picked up surface debris.

It won’t be as good as the V15, and it wobbles on the backward pass, but for certain situations, it should work.

One example is cleaning light area rugs – something a full-sized stick vacuum cannot do.

The lack of a bristled attachment hurts it, but Dyson designed this for hard surfaces, so it’s hard to expect more.

Dustbin and filter comparison

These vacuums utilize the same horizontally aligned dustbin.

One difference is the size disparity, with the V15 Detect having more volume (0.77 vs. 0.18 liters).

It more than triples the capacity of the Micro 1.5KG.

Both have a hygienic system and a trombone-like lever.

Hence, each variant empties similarly, but the V15 Detect does better at pushing out debris.

Also, both have a fully-sealed system that didn’t leak during the fog test.

However, the V15 has a larger filter since it has more mass, necessitating it.

Noise comparison

Even with the smaller motor, the Micro is almost as loud as the V15 Detect.

Surprisingly, even with the higher airflow in the default setting, the V15 Detect isn’t as noisy as the Micro, which was a surprise.

However, the V15 is louder at the max setting with the high-torque attachment.

But the noise levels were equal with the slim roller attached (78.5 dB vs. 78.5 dB).

Maintenance comparison

There’s not much difference in maintenance for both vacuums.

But users will have to account for the high torque attachment since it accumulates a lot of debris.

Do check the Dyson maintenance section in my blog for model-specific articles for upkeep.

1. Primary nozzle: The main brush roll is the most abused component of any stick vacuum. Clean it once a week to remove any accumulated hair and dust, particularly on the axles.
2. Dustbin: Empty the dustbin after every cleaning cycle to prevent dust mites from breeding.
3. Filter: Dyson has a two-in-one pre and post-motor filter assembly that you should clean once a month. The whole component is washable, but make sure it’s fully dry before reattaching.
4. Cyclones: Cleaning this component is not part of the regular cleaning routine. However, if you notice the vacuum losing suction, it might be time to clean it. Warning: doing this might void the warranty, so I wouldn’t suggest cleaning it within the warranty period.

Are the Dyson Micro and V15 Tools Interchangeable?

Unfortunately, the Micro and V15 tools are not interchangeable since each utilizes a different port connector.

But the V15 tools are usable with other V-series variants except for the V6.

Likewise, the Micro tools are usable with the Omni-Glide.

Can you replace the battery of the Dyson Micro and V15 Detect?

Yes, the batteries of the Micro and V15 Detect are replaceable.

But, the V15’s battery is easily detachable since it has a release lever.

In contrast, the Micro battery does not, so users will have to unfasten three Torx screws to remove the battery.

More Dyson Comparison Articles

• Dyson V6 vs. V8
• Dyson V6 vs. V10
• Dyson V7 vs. V8
• Dyson V7 vs. V10
• Dyson V7 vs. V12
• Dyson V8 vs. V10
• Dyson V8 vs. V12
• Dyson V8 vs. V15
• Dyson V10 vs. V11
• Dyson V10 vs. V12
• Dyson V10 vs. V15
• Dyson V11 vs. V12
• Dyson V12 vs. Micro 1.5KG
• Dyson V12 vs. Omni Glide
• Dyson V12 vs. V15
• Dyson V12 vs. Outsize
• Dyson V15 vs. Outsize vs. V11 vs. V10
• Dyson Micro vs. Omni Glide
• Dyson Micro vs. V15 Detect
• Best Dyson Vacuum [Detailed Guide]

Dyson Versus Other Brands

• Tineco A11 vs. Dyson V15 Detect
• Tineco Pure One S12 vs. Dyson V15 Detect
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V12
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V8
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V10
• LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V15
• Miele Triflex HX1 vs. Dyson V15
• Miele Triflex HX1 vs. Dyson V12
• Shark vs. Dyson
• Shark ION P50 vs. Dyson V10 vs. V11

Spec comparison

Where can I buy the Dyson Micro and V15 Detect?

These vacuums are available in online stores like Amazon or Dyson. Check the links below for the latest pricing information.

• Dyson V15 Detect on Amazon
• Dyson Micro on Dyson.com

Disclosure: I will earn a commission if you purchase through the links above, but at no extra cost to you, so it’s a win-win for us!

Which offers the better value?

Determining which vacuum offers the better value-for-money proposition will depend on what you prioritize.

The Dyson Micro is the better option based on price alone, but cost is only one part of the equation.

Don’t worry, though. I’ve enumerated reasons to consider each variant.

5 Reasons to choose the Dyson Micro 1.5KG

1. Excellent for tiny homes: The Micro’s compact and lightweight frame is better suited inside small dwellings where the V15 is overqualified.
2. Better ergonomics: Another benefit of the lightweight feature is a much better ergonomic feel. The steering is feather light
3. Best Dyson handheld: The absence of a trigger, compact body, and light feel easily make the Micro the best Dyson handheld I’ve tested.
4. No trigger: If continually squeezing a trigger isn’t your cup of tea, then the Micro is the no-brainer choice.
5. Hard floor only spaces: Its cleaning performance on hard floors isn’t far off the V15 Detect, even with the lower suction and airflow.

5 Reasons to choose the Dyson V15 Detect

1. Accentuates dust: The green LED light highlights dust particles, enabling consumers to track dirt and more efficient vacuum their homes.
2. Better for large homes: The V15’s detachable, larger-capacity battery will run further than the Micro (over 80 minutes).
3. Excellent for carpet: This variant is the best Dyson for deep cleaning carpet, thanks to its sustained pick up for long stretches. Consumers can easily double the run time by purchasing an extra battery.
4. Large dustbin: The Dyson V15 0.77-liter dust container more than triple the Micro’s 0.18-liter volume.
5. Better for longe hair: Dyson’s redesigned high torque attachment is excellent for cleaning hair on carpet.

The Verdict: Choosing One Will Depend on Budget and Need

I’ve used both vacuums extensively, and these vacuums are very good at what they do.

But comparing the two isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison. There are nuances to consider before making a decision.

The V15 Detect is the more technologically advanced stick vacuum with all the bells and whistles.

It performs much better on carpet but at a premium cost.

The Dyson Micro is much cheaper, but with all the high-end features stripped out to make it as light as possible.

It’s the better option inside smaller homes with only hard floors.

Even if it can clean surface debris on carpet, I wouldn’t recommend it since it will not pick up embedded dirt.

But that ability makes it ideal for homes with hard surfaces and light area rugs.

The V15 Detect is a no-brainer option for big homes with a mix of hard floors and carpet.

It has a larger capacity battery, so it’ll run longer, and with its detachability, users can extend the run time even further.

That is if you’re willing to pay the premium for it.