Dyson V15 Detect vs. Outsize vs. V11 Torque Drive vs. V10 Comparison

When James Dyson said during the V10 reveal that his company will no longer do R&D on upright or canister vacuums, I thought he was bluffing, but he wasn’t.

Since the V10 launch, three more models preceded the V11 Torque Drive, V11 Outsize, and the latest V15 Detect.

We’ll be comparing these variants in this article. I’ve spent weeks testing all these products over the past year, and this comparison is a culmination.

Update (Sept 23, 2023): Dyson recently unveiled three new variants – the Gen5 Detect, Gen5 Detect Outsize, and V15s Submarine, which I’ll review soon. So the V15 Detect isn’t the latest.

An Overview of the Dyson V15 Detect, Outsize, V11 Torque Drive, and V10

Here’s an overview of these cordless stick vacuums’ specs and test results. A bird’s eye view (so to speak) to give you an overview of how these products compare.

Introduction to the Dyson V15 vs. Outsize vs. V11 Torque Drive vs. V10 Absolute

All these products represent a shift in Dyson’s focus on cord-free products.

In addition, each new model presents an upgrade, starting with the Dyson V10, where the dustbin was realigned to increase capacity and improve airflow efficiency.

The V11 Torque Drive introduced the Dynamic Load Sensor that automatically increases suction when it detects more resistance (e.g., carpet). This was also the first model to have an LCD screen, providing users with real-time info on battery status – how much time remains and much more.

With the V11 Outsize – it was sheer power and volume. This variant had one of the largest dustbin capacities of any cordless stick vacuum – almost as much as an upright.

Lastly, there’s the V15 Detect – Dyson’s latest and perhaps their best product to date with the green laser light that exposes dirt particles invisible to the naked eye.

Related: Dyson Micro 1.5KG vs. Dyson V15 Detect. Learn the similarities and differences.

Note: All these models are the main variants of Dyson. Depending on your region, there will be many sub-models with varying tools (some may have smaller dustbin capacities). I’ll focus mainly on these four specific options available in the US market.

Similarities between the Dyson V15, V11 Outsize, V11 Torque Drive, and V10 Absolute

First, let’s go through the similarities of these cordless stick vacuums.

1. Design framework, dustbin orientation, and trigger

All these models have the same design, horizontally aligned dustbin and trigger. Except for the V11 Outsize, the other three have the same dirt capacity of 0.77 liters.

So, there’s not much difference with handheld usability. However, the V11 Outsize is the heaviest of the four, weighing 5 pounds and 5 ounces, and the least handheld-friendly. I’ve tried using it to clean upholstery at home, and my arms were burning within the first few minutes.

• Dyson V11 Outsize: 5 pounds and 5 ounces
• Dyson V15 Detect: 4 pounds and 8.3 ounces
• Dyson V11 Torque Drive: 4 pounds and 6.4 ounces
• Dyson V10 Absolute: 3 pounds and 10.5 ounces

Handle weight is another factor to consider. I used a baggage scale to check handle weight, and here are the results.

• Dyson V11 Outsize: 2.4 kgs (or 5.29 lbs.)
• Dyson V15 Detect: 2.15 kgs (or 4.73 lbs.)
• Dyson V11 Torque Drive: 2.10 kgs (4.62 lbs)
• Dyson V10 Absolute: 1.55 kgs (3.41 lbs)

The results of this test mirror the weight 

2. Interchangeable tools, usability as a stick vacuum and handheld

The V15, V11 Outsize, Torque Drive, and V10 have interchangeable tools, allowing users to use them as a stick or handheld vacuums.

Please realize that these vacuums are designed primarily as floor cleaners, so don’t expect too much regarding handheld ergonomics.

The good news is that the tools are forward and backward-compatible, meaning tools for the V15 (such as the torque screw upholstery brush or the slim roller) will fit older variants like the V10 or V11.

Once these attachments are sold separately

3. Hygienic system

Since the V8 was introduced, all Dyson products have had the hygienic feature built-in. Yes, that includes the four V-series models featured in this article.

Each of these vacuums has a trombone-like lever that forces debris out as you push it forward.

Even the Omni-Glide, with its more compact frame, has it, so Dyson is committed to utilizing this feature in their vacuums.

4. Sealed system

I tested each of these variants to see if it has a sealed system using a fog machine. A “sealed system” keeps dirt and allergens inside the dustbin from leaking through the exhaust. And any opening around the dust container for those unfamiliar with this terminology.

This experiment tests the seals around the vacuum to see if it’s robust enough to prevent fog from leaking. It provides a visual cue if a vacuum’s system leaks or not.

Having a High-Efficiency Particulate Air (or HEPA) filter isn’t enough. A good seal is essential to keep contaminants inside the container.

All four vacuums passed the fog test without any visible leaks, so the seals around the dust container are good for keeping dust from seeping through the exhaust and seals.

5. Adjustable gates

Dyson introduced the Torque Drive attachment in the V10 with the adjustable gates. This has been the status quo since the subsequent V11 (Outsize and Torque Drive) and V15 models all have cleaning heads with this feature.

6. One-piece filter design

Before the V10, most Dyson cord-free products featured a two-filter system. But with the V10 onwards, Dyson has utilized a single filter design with the pre-motor filter and post-motor HEPA as a single piece.

7. Three power settings

The Dyson V15, V11 Outsize, Torque Drive, and V10 Absolute have three power settings – eco, mid, and boost.

However, the V11 and V15 variants have an auto setting (default) that adjusts power based on the surface.

Differences between the Dyson V15, V11 Outsize, V11 Torque Drive, and V10 Absolute

Dyson has slowly introduced new features in each new model, and I’ll highlight those enhancements (and more) in this section.

1. Cleaning head variance

Of the four variants (for US markets), only the Dyson V15 and V10 come with soft roller attachments absent in the V11 Outsize and Torque Drive.

While the Torque Drive can clean hard floors thanks to the adjustable gates, I prefer a soft roller.

Unlike standard brush attachments, these are more efficient and don’t rely on airflow to pick up debris.

2. Suction and airflow

Dyson uses air watts to disclose power, and the V15 has the most at 230 air watts, and the V10 has the least at 151 air watts.

I did independent tests using an anemometer and a vacuum water lift gauge to check airflow and suction.

Here are the results from the suction gauge.

• Dyson V15 Detect: 100″
• Dyson V11 Outsize: 90″
• Dyson V11 Torque Drive: 63″
• Dyson V10 Absolute: 63″

Note: Results are in inches of water lift from a vacuum gauge.

The V15 Detect beats the Outsize by 10″ of water lift and is almost 40% better than the V10 Absolute.

These figures are not official numbers but only results from independent tests I did. I’m still refining the process for measuring suction, so take the results here for what it’s worth.

Airflow tests mirror the suction gauge.

Even with the airflow tests, the V15 Detect trumps all previous variants, with 9% more airflow than the V11 Outsize and 20% more than the V10 Absolute.

It combines the lighter design of the V11 Torque Drive but with more power than the Outsize.

3. Attachment variance

The number of tools will depend on what model you select. The V15 has the most (in quantity) of the four main variants.

My favorite above-the-floor tool would be the torque screw mini brush (found in the V15), that’s excellent at cleaning long strands of hair.

It’s much better than a traditional mini-turbo brush in aspect with the tapered brush design, forcing hair into a holding area, then inside the dustbin.

I didn’t bother trying it on short strands, but immediately on long twelve-inch strands and nothing wrapped on the brush.

Here’s a glance at the tools for each model.

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

Dyson V11 Outsize

1. Cleaning head
2. Mini turbo brush
3. Crevice tool
4. Combination tool
5. Upholstery tool
6. Soft dusting brush
7. Wand
8. Wall mountable dock
9. Charger

Dyson V11 Torque Drive

1. V11 Torque Drive
2. Mini turbo brush
3. Soft dusting brush
4. Crevice tool
5. Combination tool
6. Stubborn dirt brush
7. Wand storage clip
8. Docking station
9. Extension wand

Dyson V10 Absolute

1. Soft roller
2. Torque Drive
3. Mini turbo brush
4. Crevice tool
5. Combination tool
6. Soft dusting brush
7. Extension wand
8. Charging dock

You’ll notice that only the V10 Absolute and V15 Detect have the soft roller AND torque drive attachment (at least in the US market), while the V11 Outsize and Torque Drive only have the torque drive attachment.

4. Green Laser Light [V15 Detect]

Dyson introduces the laser slim roller in the V15 Detect.

One feature introduced in the V15 is the green laser light magnifying invisible to the naked-eye dust particles.

It’s much better than an LED headlight for this purpose. Trust me. I’ve tested a bunch of stick vacuums with such, and this green laser trumps them all.

I like the slim roller chosen because it is more compact and fits tighter areas better. Steering is lighter since it has less bulk.

5. Slim Roller [V15 Detect]

Only the V15 has a slim roller attachment, a smaller version of the soft roller.

After using it extensively for the past few weeks, I like it better than the standard version. It’s more compact and fits in tighter zones better.

6. Soft Roller [V10]

The Dyson V10 Absolute comes with a soft roller attachment and the torque drive nozzle.

Put it side by side with the V15’s slim roller, and you can see the size difference.

7. Extra-Large Dustbin [V11 Outsize]

The V11 Outsize has the largest dustbin capacity with a 1.89-liter capacity – one of the highest of all stick vacuums available right now.

However, the downside to this high volume is the added weight.

The V11 Outsize tips the scales at 5 pounds and 5 ounces – hard to use in handheld mode for cleaning vertical spaces.

I tried cleaning the backrest in the dining room chair, and my arm was burning within seconds.

8. Slide Switch Power Setting Toggle [V10]

All the Dyson cordless vacuums except for the V10 have a single-button interface.

Only the V10 has the slide switch grandfathered from the Dyson V7 and V8 to adjust between three power settings.

Cleaning Comparison

Another differentiating factor for these vacuums is how they performed. Again, it’s evident that suction and airflow play a significant role here, but one underrated aspect is brush design.

If you look at the results below, you can see a bump after the V10, but there isn’t much difference between the V11 Torque Drive, Outsize, and V15 Detect.

The power difference is why the V10 isn’t as good as the V11 and V15 variants.

Overall, the V11 Outsize has the best score, acing the whole test series with 100% scores.

However, I still consider the V15 better because it had a better-sustained cleaning performance on carpets.

What do I mean? It was the best at picking up embedded dirt at the eco setting at 100% better than the Outsize and Torque Drive.

• V15 Detect: 100%
• V11 Outsize: 96.4%
• V11 Torque Drive: 94%
• V10 Absolute: 92.2%

Most reviews don’t mention this, but using the max setting (all the time) will overheat the battery, decreasing its lifespan.

I’ve read comments in my Tineco Review complaining about a shot battery.

However, when I dug deeper, it turned out that he was using the max setting exclusively, and consequently, the battery died.

That’s the risk of using the max function continually. And with the V15 and V11 Outsize, that’s no longer the case since the auto setting will be sufficient.

Another reason why I like the V15 is the slim roller with the green laser.

I believe it’s a game-changer and easily is better than an LED with dirt detection.

This laser is precisely angled at 1.5 degrees and envelops dust and other contaminants invisible to the naked eye.

The slim roller’s more compact frame makes it easier to steer and navigate around low-clearance areas.

Hair wrap comparison

Another experiment I did with these vacuums was the hair wrap test on hard floors and carpets.

I tried it on hair strands between five and thirteen inches.

Hard floor results

I tested both surfaces to check how well each variant would avoid hair tangles on the brush.

The Dyson V15 was the best on this surface. It’s able to resist tangles, even up to even inches.

Even with lengthy 12″ strands, it was good, picking up a high percentage.

Scroll down to see all the results.

Dyson V15 Detect

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

Dyson V11 Outsize

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 99% inside the dustbin, 1% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 13-inch strands: 13% inside the dustbin, 87% on the brush

Dyson V11 Torque Drive

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 1% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 80% inside the dustbin, 20% on the brush
• 13-inch strands: 19% inside the dustbin, 81% on the brush

Dyson V10

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 95% inside the dustbin, 5% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 91% inside the dustbin, 9% on the brush
• 11-inch strands: 46% inside the dustbin, 54% on the brush

Again, the V15 Detect is the best of the four Dyson models featured here as it picked up 100% to eleven inches.

Please note that longer strands of hair (11 inches and up) may stick on the dustbin’s inner walls.

You’ll need to push the hygienic system down several times to dislodge hair from the middle filter piece.

One issue with using the soft roller on long hair strands is portions of it will wrap on the axles – both sides!

So, if you use any of these to clean hair, it’s best to check this area periodically and clean any build-up.

Carpet results

Only the Dyson V15 Detect has an active anti-tangle system, so it wasn’t surprising when it did the best.

Dyson V15 Detect

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

Dyson V11 Outsize

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 98% inside the dustbin, 2% on the brush
• 11-inch strands: 84% inside the dustbin, 16% on the brush

Dyson V11 Torque Drive

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 85% inside the dustbin, 2% on the brush
• 11-inch strands: 61% inside the dustbin, 16% on the brush

Dyson V10 Absolute

• 5-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 7-inch strands: 100% inside the dustbin, 0% on the brush
• 9-inch strands: 91% inside the dustbin, 9% on the brush
• 11-inch strands: 56% inside the dustbin, 44% on the brush

The Dyson V15 Detect is the only option that resists tangles up to 12″ long hair. Some strands were wrapping on the brush, but it was minimal.

In comparison, the V11 Outsize and V11 Torque Drive did well up to 9″, but it struggled with longer 11″ hair.

Run time comparison

While Dyson says all these stick vacuums will run for 60 minutes, that number is underrated. I tested each of these models, and the results vary.

The V15 and V11 Outsize were the best, breaching the 80-minute mark with the main cleaning nozzle from one battery.

These are the best marks of all cord-free products I’ve tested from a single battery.

Its ability to remove and recharge the battery independently adds to practicality.

The V11 Outsize and V15 Detect of the four products have detachable batteries. In addition, there are V11 Torque Drive sub-models with a removable battery, but some variants don’t.

Noise Comparison

Next, we’ll compare noise levels. First off, all Dyson cordless vacuums are noisy. It’s a given, but we’ll examine the loudest model here.

For the experiments, I used a sound meter to check noise levels.

The Dyson V10 is the least noisy of the bunch, which isn’t a surprise since it has the least power, while the V11 and V15 models all recorded above 70 decibels, with the V15 breaching 80.

Maintenance

Stick vacuums all need a certain level of maintenance to function at their peak. We’ll look at the basics in this section. If you want a detailed step-by-step guide, check out this Dyson maintenance page with links to each how-to article.

1. Brush roll: The primary roller gets the most abuse since it funnels debris toward the suction inlet. Hair, dust, and other contaminants will accumulate on it, so removing any build-up here is essential. Fortunately, all models have standard detachable brush roll and roller attachments.
2. Filter: Dyson utilizes a “lifetime” filter, meaning it should last the vacuum’s lifetime. But realize that the HEPA portion of these filters is paper – it could degrade over time. Fortunately, the cyclones do an excellent job at keeping debris from sticking on the filter, and there’s no need to wash it as frequently as other brands.
3. Cyclones: Over time, dust will accumulate in the cyclones, which may negatively affect cleaning performance. Unfortunately, Dyson doesn’t provide step-by-step instructions on cleaning this part. But I’ve published (and will post) step-by-step instructions on cleaning it. Check this guide on cleaning the Dyson V8.
4. Dustbin: Empty the dust container after every use. Doing so will prevent dust mites from breeding inside it. If the internal components are mucked up, detach the exterior frame and wipe clean.
5. Attachments: Most Dyson tools are easy to clean. Use a clean towel to wipe down. But you’ll have to check the mini-turbo brush for hair wrap.
6. Battery: There’s not much maintenance involved with the batteries. You can keep it plugged in since it slows down to a trickle when full. However, please don’t use the max setting exclusively, as it will overheat the batteries. Use it in spurts, but not exclusively.

Don’t forget to check my guide on replacing Dyson batteries for the V6, V8, and V10.

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

Product Specifications

Where can I buy these Dyson cordless stick vacuums?

These vacuums are available in online stores such as Amazon or eBay. Please check the links below for the latest pricing information.

• Dyson V15 Detect on Amazon
• Dyson V11 Outsize on Amazon
• Dyson V11 Torque Drive on Amazon
• Dyson V10 Absolute on Amazon
• Dyson V10 Animal on Amazon

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

Which is the Best Option? The Dyson V15 Detect, V11 Outsize, V11 Torque Drive, or V10?

After testing these vacuums extensively on cleaning performance, filtration, and usability, the V15 Detect offers the best value when considering how good it is on both surfaces.

The slim roller is a step above any Dyson hard floor tool I’ve tested because the green light highlights dust particles ordinarily invisible to the naked eye.

Its compact profile is more maneuverable and fits tighter quarters than the standard soft roller attachment.

The high torque attachment and improved suction and battery performance enable it to sustain embedded dirt pick-up for extended periods than any of the V11 models.

Lastly, the torque screw attachment is excellent for cleaning long hair strands. With it, the V15 is the best for cleaning hair.

However, the V15 is expensive; if that’s the case, the V11 Torque Drive or V10 is the next best option.

5 Reasons to Choose the V15 Detect

1. Excellent at detecting almost invisible dust: The green laser light envelops dust particles, enabling users to be more efficient at tracking dirt even in dark conditions.
2. The best option for cleaning hair: Dyson’s upgrades put in the standard brush and mini brush tools, helping it untangle hair better than any other option here.
3. Deep cleaning for longer stretches: The V15 is the best at deep cleaning tests, picking up 100% in all three power settings.
4. Long run time: This vacuum will run past eighty minutes, twenty more than the claimed figures, even with the high torque attachment.
5. Detachable battery: The V15 battery is easier to replace than the V11 Torque Drive and V10 since it’s removable.

5 Reasons to Choose the Dyson V15 Outsize

1. Excellent cleaning performance: The V15 Outsize had the best overall scores of the bunch.
2. Deep cleans carpet well: Like the V15, the V11 Outsize also cleans embedded dirt at a 100% rate in the auto setting.
3. Extra-large dirt capacity: This model doubles the dirt volume of the other Dyson options here at 1.89 liters.
4. Wide cleaning path: This is great for cleaning wide-open carpet spaces.
5. Detachable battery: All V15 and V11 Outsize options have a detachable battery.

4 Reasons to Choose the Dyson V11 Torque Drive

1. Less expensive: This option is cheaper than the V11 Outsize and V15 Detect. Cleaning performance is close. The only difference is the V15 Detect deep cleans better at the lowest setting.
2. Cleans carpets well: The torque drive tool and the high suction should put the Dyson V11 on your shortlist.
3. Lighter than the V15: It may not look obvious, but the V11 Torque Drive is lighter than the V15. If you value handheld usability, this would be the better option.
4. Extended run time: This vacuum will run for up to 74 minutes from a single battery. It’s not as long as the V15 or V11 Outsize, but it’s still impressive.

3 Reasons to Choose the Dyson V10

1. Cheapest alternative: The V10 is the oldest model and the least costly.
2. Lightest option: Due to the smaller motor and battery, the V10 is the lightest.
3. Decent cleaning performance: It has the worst carpet pick-up scores but is still decent if the price is a major deciding factor.

The Verdict: The V15 Detect Is The Best Option

Considering all factors, such as usability, cleaning performance, price, and everything in between, the Dyson V15 Detect is the best alternative.

It has the most suction, the best combination of tools, and the best cleaning performance of all Dyson cordless products. If price isn’t a concern, the V15 Detect is an excellent option inside homes with bare floors or carpets.