Continuing my series of Dyson cordless vacuums, we’ll look at the V7 MotorHead and Outsize, two models representing different spectrums in Dyson’s product range.
The V7 is a lightweight alternative to the V8 series, with a (slightly) smaller motor, battery, and dustbin to reduce cost, enabling Dyson to bring the price down.
The Outsize is Dyson’s largest cordless vacuum option with its upright-level dustbin capacity. It was marketed as the V11 Outsize, but now Dyson has shed the V11 label and only calls it Outsize.
Which option is better? I’ve put both through a grueling series of tests to find out, so let’s get into this comparison.
A quick overview of the Dyson V7 and Outsize
Airflow: 49.68 CFM 📝 Dust bin size: 0.53 liters 📝 Sand on hard floor: 99.2% 📝 Deep Cleaning: 94.93% 📝 Weight: 5.45 lbs 📝 Run time: up to 32 mins. 📝 Recharge: 3.5 hrs. 📝 Battery: 2100 mAh Li-ion 📝 Noise: 73.9 dB
Airflow: 66.65 CFM 📝 Dust bin size: 1.89 liters 📝 Sand on hard floor: 100% 📝 Deep Cleaning: 100% 📝 Weight: 7.85 lbs. 📝 Run time: up to 85:24 mins. 📝 Recharge: 4.5 hrs. 📝 Battery: 3600 mAh Li-ion 📝 Noise: 78.8 dB
Jump to: Introduction, Similarities, Differences, Ergonomics, Interface, Battery & Run Time, Airflow, Cleaning, Noise, Maintenance, Noise, Maintenance, Product Specifications, Where to Buy, Which is Better, Verdict
Introduction to the Dyson V7 and Outsize
These variants represent two varying spectrums in the Dyson ecosystem.
The V7 series prioritizes ergonomics with its light frame, smaller motor, and dustbin. This model was released after the Dyson V8, specifically for consumers looking for a cheaper alternative without much compromise.
The Outsize focuses on sheer power and capacity. It’s (basically) a supersized version of the V11 Torque Drive, (more than) doubling its capacity (1.89 vs. 0.77 liters).
Lighter and Cheaper: Dyson V7 MotorHead
Pros
- Much lighter than the Outsize
- The lighter frame makes it highly ergonomic
- Better steering
- Not as noisy
- Above-average at vacuuming carpets
- Lots of sub-variant options
Cons
- The MotorHead variant leaked badly during the fog test
- Small dustbin
- Non-detachable battery
The Dyson V7 is an older series with a vertically aligned dustbin. Obviously, that has changed with the recent influx of Dyson cordless stick vacuums, starting with the V10 Absolute.
There’s nothing fancy about this model. Everything is analog – from the trigger to the suction controls, so don’t expect anything fancy.
The model I have is the MotorHead which only has the standard brush roll. Dyson calls this tool (you guessed it), MotorHead.
This tool is similar to the V8’s brush roll but with a (slightly) thinner roller, but (still) excellent at debris pick-up, especially surface dirt on carpets.
Compared to the Outsize, it won’t have as many attachments, but it comes with enough for most of your cleaning needs.
Unfortunately, as with any cordless vacuum, there are trade-offs with lightweight options.
Most significant are the run time and capacity disadvantages.
The V7’s vertically aligned dustbin limits the volume to 0.53 liters, more than a three-fold variance to the Outsize (1.89 liters).
And since it uses a smaller battery, run time is compromised (85 vs. 32 mins), so these are the aspects to consider whether the V7 is a good option over the Outsize.
There are several V7 options. All use the same motor, dustbin, and battery but with varying tools and filter configurations – just an FYI.
Upright Capacity: Dyson Outsize
Pros
- Massive dustbin volume (1.89 liters)
- Extended run time (over 85 mins)
- Detachable battery, so extending run time is possible
- Wide brush roll
- Full-sealed system
- Excellent at vacuuming debris (surface and embedded)
- The latest variants come with the laser slim roller
Cons
- Premium cost
- Extremely top-heavy
- Not recommended inside tiny homes due to its size
As its name implies, the Outsize is a jumbo version of the V11 Torque Drive. These variants have identical features, from the interactive LCD to the trigger switch and trombone-style hygienic lever, but at varying sizes.
And the dimension variance is massive, regardless of the angle.
Dyson introduced this model primarily for capacity, and that’s it.
It has the largest dustbin capacity of any traditional cordless stick vacuum I’ve reviewed – when I say traditional, I mean options with the dustbin, motor, and battery near the handle.
However, aside from the capacity advantage over the V11, there is little variance in airflow and cleaning performance.
Yes, the Outsize aced the cleaning experiments (surface and embedded) with a 100% score across the board, even with the standard brush roll, but at the expense of an incredibly top-heavy design.
When I bought the Outsize, it only had the standard nozzle, but the latest Outsize models have the laser slim roller.
If you’re unfamiliar with it, this tool is one of Dyson’s latest innovations, using a bright green laser (in place of a white LED) to illuminate and track dust.
It has the widest brush roll at over twelve inches, which is in the upright territory.
Dyson calls it the Digital Motorbar XXL, and it has the same function as the V11 version with the adjustable gates, but this version is wider.
Going back to the compromise, the Outsize is one of the heaviest cordless stick vacuum options, tipping the scales at nearly eight pounds.
It doesn’t sound much, but you’ll feel every extra ounce when most of it is near the handle.
And the extra weight makes it (borderline) unusable as a handheld.
I’d recommend the Outsize (only) if you need the capacity or want something cordless in a large home with lots of carpets.
Other than those, save money and use the cheaper V11 Torque Drive.
Similarities between the Dyson V7 and Outsize
Next, we’ll examine the similarities between the Dyson V7 and Outsize.
1. Trigger
The first (and most obvious) is the trigger, a Dyson mainstay with all their products up to the V15 variant.
But that’s no longer the case with the latest releases like the Omni Glide, Mirco, and V12 Detect – all use a push-button switch.
One advantage of a trigger is it offers power on demand, so the motor only turns on if you squeeze the trigger.
The downside is finger and arm fatigue, especially using these vacuums for long stretches.
2. Hygienic System
Despite the variance in dustbin alignment, both utilize a hygienic system, helping push debris downward when emptying the dustbin.
The Outsize uses a trombone-like lever that consumers push forward.
I like this design better than the older one because of the “point and shoot” approach of emptying dirt, but the downside is you’ll need to remove the attachment to empty it.
The Dyson V7’s vertically-aligned dustbin has a lever on top that you’ll pull to empty the dustbin’s contents.
It’s the exact mechanism as the Dyson V8 since both use the same framework.
3. Two-in-One Versatility
Lastly is the versatility of these products.
Thanks to the interchangeable tools, consumers can use these in various configurations as a handheld vacuum or stick vacuum.
One significant advantage of the Dyson V7 is its lightweight frame, making it far more ergonomic than the enormous size of the Outsize.
Differences between Dyson V7 and Outsize
In this section, we’ll look at the differences between the Dyson V7 and Outsize, and some may be deciding factors.
1. Size and Weight
One of these potential factors will be size variance. The Dyson Outsize dwarfs the V7 with its sheer bulk.
You can see the dustbin size difference in the photo above – it’s enormous.
The eye test confirms the weight discrepancy (7.85 vs. 5.45 lbs), and for traditional stick vacuums with the dustbin, motor, and handle on top, every added ounce counts!
2. Interactive LCD Screen [Outsize only]
The Outsize has a similar LCD screen behind the motor, showing the run time status, power settings, and potential error codes.
Unfortunately, the V7 doesn’t have this feature since it’s part of the previous-generation series when Dyson didn’t use any screens.
3. Power Adjustment
Another variance is the power adjustment switch for toggling between suction settings.
The Dyson V7 uses an old-school slide switch for toggling between its two power settings, while the Outsize utilizes a round silver button underneath the LCD screen for toggling between its three settings.
As you can see in the photo (above), it has the same design as the V11 Torque Drive.
4. Filter Design
Like all the latest generation Dyson products, the Outsize uses a one-piece filter where the pre and post-motor elements are fused.
This design is highly efficient at keeping debris inside since it has seals preventing allergens from seeping through.
The proof is none of the Dyson full-sized options (V15 Detect, Outsize, V11, and V10) leaked during the fog test.
In contrast, the V7 MotorHead only has the pre-motor filter, not the post-motor element.
One downside of the omission is it leaked badly during the fog test.
5. Brush Roll
Since Dyson introduced the V10, nearly all their full-sized standard nozzles have adjustable gates, except for the V12 Detect.
The Outsize’s nozzle is wide at over twelve inches, giving it more per-pass coverage than an average stick vacuum.
Combining that with the high airflow and extended range, the Outsize is one of the best alternatives for cleaning carpets inside large homes.
As I’ve said earlier, newer Outsize options have the laser slim roller attachment and the standard nozzle, but these models will cost a premium.
The V7 uses a smaller nozzle with similar components to the V8 but a felt-like seal behind the brush.
Despite not having adjustable gates, it was excellent at picking up smaller debris.
It excelled at cleaning carpet, picking up nearly as well as the more expensive V8 despite having (slightly) less airflow.
Unfortunately, none of the V7 variants (at least from what I’ve seen) come with a soft roller and standard nozzles.
So you’ll need to check if your home needs these tools and select the right sub-model accordingly.
Related Dyson Comparisons
- Dyson V7 vs. V12
- Dyson V7 vs. V10
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. Omni-Glide
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. Outsize
- Dyson V12 vs. V8
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. V11 Torque Drive
- Dyson Micro vs. V12 Detect
- Dyson V12 vs V15
Ergonomic Comparison
One significant advantage of the V7 is its lightweight frame, making it the better ergonomic option.
There’s no particular test for this, only looking at the weight.
The Outsize weighs (nearly) two pounds more than the V7 at 7.85 pounds (compared to the V7’s 5.45 pounds).
And with stick vacuums, every extra ounce matters for usability.
Interface Comparison
Their interface shows you the generational differences between the V7 and Outsize.
The Dyson V7, the older model, uses analog tech with no LCD screen, while the Outsize has more polish with the interactive LCD screen derived from the V11 Torque Drive.
You can see the similarities between the V11 Torque Drive and Outsize (two vacuums in the middle – photo above).
One advantage of the interactive LCD screen is it shows you exactly how much run time is left down to the second.
The V7 doesn’t have this feature or a precise battery indicator, only a single LED underneath the handle.
Battery and Run Time Comparison
Another potential deciding factor for consumers is the battery and run time.
The V7 uses a smaller 2100 mAh lithium-ion battery which is lighter but with a shorter range of around 32 minutes, while the Outsize uses a larger 3600 mAh version with a run time of over 85 minutes with the standard nozzle.
| Model | Eco | Mid/Auto | Boost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dyson Outsize | |||
| Hard Floor | 85:24 mins | N/A | N/A |
| Carpet | 64:26 mins | 22:08 mins | 12: 36 mins |
| Dyson V7 | |||
| Non-powered | 32:43 mins. | N/A | 5:45 mins |
| Cleaning nozzle | 27:58 mins. | N/A | 7:07 mins |
Please note that the V7’s 32-minute figure is with the crevice tool. With the standard nozzle, that figure drops to (just under) 28 minutes.
The Outsize is much better in this thanks to the larger battery and (still) exceeds the 60-minute claim on carpets.
Another factor to consider is the battery’s detachability without tools. Only the Outsize has this feature, while consumers will need to loosen three bolts to remove the V7 battery, so it’s not feasible to purchase an extra to extend the range.
Airflow Comparison
The larger motor gives the Outsize a significant advantage in this category, making it more efficient at debris pick-up.
I used a sound meter at the cleaning nozzle and wand to check how much air flows through these areas.
| Model | Eco | Mid/Auto | Boost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dyson Outsize | |||
| Wand | 33.3 CFM | 41.07 CFM | 66.65 CFM |
| Cleaning Head | 29.52 CFM | 33.4 CFM | 59.5 CFM |
| Dyson V7 | |||
| Wand | 29.64 CFM | N/A | 49.68 CFM |
| Cleaning Head | 26.28 CFM | N/A | 37.92 CFM |
The Outsize (easily) wins the airflow comparison across the board. It has 12% more in the lowest setting and (a whopping) 29% more in the highest setting.
Another plus is the middle setting that balances range and suction, a recommended setting for vacuuming carpets.
Cleaning Comparison
| Model | Dyson V7 | Dyson Outsize |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 93.8% | 100% |
| Hard Floors (Surface Test) | 81.75% | 100% |
| Sand on Hard Floor | 99.2% | 100% |
| Carpet (Surface Test) | 99.97% | 100% |
| Deep Cleaning | 94.93% | 100% |
The Outsize’s distinct airflow advantage is confirmed during the cleaning experiments, which aced the surface debris tests (all 100%).
It’s the only cordless stick vacuum I’ve reviewed with this achievement, thanks to the high airflow, wide nozzle, and adjustable gates.
The V7 MotorHead wasn’t bad, at least on carpets, where it got respectable scores for a stick vacuum in its price range.
This model isn’t a bad option for folks looking for a stick vacuum inside their small carpeted home, but don’t expect upright-like performance.
Which is better on hard floors?
Obviously, it’s the Outsize, thanks to the perfect scores. Again, the higher airflow helps it pick up more debris, even hard-to-clean sand.
One issue with using a standard nozzle on hard floors is it won’t pick up cleanly, especially heavy debris like sand.
The V7 was decent in this experiment but a notch below, only picking up 99.2% – a high score, but there’s visible residue.
Hair Wrap Comparison [on Hard Floors]
Surprisingly, despite the airflow disadvantage, the V7 MotorHead fared well in the hair wrap experiments, picking up a high percentage on this surface, even with long strands.
- 5-inch strands: 100%
- 7-inch strands: 99%
- 9-inch strands: 100%
- 11-inch strands: 88%
- 12-inch strands: 88%
The eye test and percentages match as barely anything was wrapping on the brush roll.
I was expecting the Outsize to perform better at resisting hair tangles, but it wasn’t good with thirteen-inch hair, but it was excellent in the other experiments.
- 5-inch strands: 100%
- 7-inch strands: 99%
- 9-inch strands: 100%
- 13-inch strands: 13%
Neither of these options has an active anti-tangle system, so these figures are excellent.
Edge Cleaning Comparison
There isn’t much with edge cleaning as the Dyson V7 and Outsize. Both were efficient at cleaning this area.
Check the before and after photos for the Outsize and V7 below.
First, the Outsize.
And the V7 MotorHead.
The V7 results were more impressive since I used pet litter for the experiment, which is harder to clean.
Which is better on carpets?
Unlike on hard floors, where the Outsize has a distinct advantage, it’s much closer on this surface.
The V7 picked up debris more efficiently, but it (still) lags behind the Outsize in the deep cleaning experiment (100% vs. 94.93%).
Regardless, the V7’s score is still excellent given its airflow limitations.
I’d recommend the Outsize only if you need the capacity and sheer suction to clean large carpeted areas with its range advantage. Otherwise, the V7’s pick up will suffice.
Hair Wrap Comparison [on Carpets]
The Outsized fared better on carpets, which is expected since it has more airflow and a chunkier brush roll.
It was excellent picking up at least five to nine-inch hair strands but wasn’t good with thirteen-inch hair, only picking up 13%.
- 5-inch strands: 100%
- 7-inch strands: 99%
- 9-inch strands: 100%
- 13-inch strands: 13%
The V7, given its airflow limitations, was (actually) decent but not something I’d recommend for vacuuming long hair strands.
- 5-inch strands: 100%
- 7-inch strands: 99%
- 9-inch strands: 38%
It picked up a high percentage of five and seven-inch hair but only got 38% with nine-inch strands.
Noise Comparison
| Model | Dyson Outsize | Dyson V7 |
|---|---|---|
| Low | 73.5 dB | 64.1 dB |
| Auto/Mid | 75 dB | N/A |
| Max | 78.8 dB | 73.9 dB |
Less power isn’t all bad because weaker vacuums won’t be as noisy. The Dyson V7 “only” maxed out at around 73 decibels at the highest setting, which is more bearable than the Outsize’s output at nearly 80 decibels.
Maintenance Comparison
As with all Dyson cordless stick vacuums, the V7 and Outsize need maintenance to function at their peak.
Below are the components you’ll need to clean or replace at recommended intervals.
- Primary nozzle: This component is (easily) the most abused one. Clean it weekly to remove any hair and dust accumulation on the brush to prevent unnecessary friction and wear.
- Dustbin: Empty it after every cleaning cycle to prevent debris from clogging the external filter and dust mites from breeding.
- Filter: Dyson recommends washing the filter monthly under running water without soap. Avoid soaking the post-motor element (pleated portion) in water since it uses a paper element.
- Battery: Avoid using the max setting exclusively to prevent excessive battery overheating.
Other Dyson Cordless Vacuum Comparisons
Check out the links below for more Dyson comparisons.
- Dyson V7 vs. V12
- Dyson V7 vs. V10
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. V10 Absolute
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. Omni-Glide
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. Outsize
- Dyson V12 vs. V8
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. V11 Torque Drive
- Dyson Micro vs. V12 Detect
- Dyson V12 vs V15
LG vs. Dyson
Recently, I’ve compared LG and Dyson cordless products, and the results are closer than you think. Consider an LG Cordzero if a Dyson is too costly.
- LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V8 Absolute
- LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V10 Absolute
- LG CordZero A9 vs. Dyson V15 Detect
- Dyson V12 Detect vs. LG CordZero A9
Product Specifications
Where can I purchase the Dyson V7 and Outsize?
These Dyson products are available online in stores like Amazon. Check the links below for the latest pricing information.
Disclaimer: I’ll earn a commission if you purchase through any of the links above, but at no extra cost, so it’s a win for us!
Which Offers the Better Value?
Choosing between the Dyson V7 and Outsize depends on your specific need.
What do you prioritize – ergonomics or capacity and range?
I don’t recommend the Outsize for everyone despite its performance benefits. This variant is (really) an acquired taste and not for everyone due to its massive frame.
The Dyson V7 is suited for folks looking for an ergonomic cordless vacuum to clean tiny homes.
Its lightweight frame and compact body help it maneuver around tight areas with fewer hindrances.
4 Reasons to choose the Dyson V7
- Cheaper: The Dyson V7, especially the MotorHead variant, is much cheaper than the Outsize.
- Much lighter: It’s more than 2 pounds lighter, which is significant for a traditionally designed cordless stick vacuum.
- Better handheld ergonomics: Another plus with the lighter frame is the handheld ergonomics, where the Outsize is borderline unusable.
- Above-average carpet performance: Despite the lower airflow output, the V7 picked up a high percentage on this surface.
5 Reasons to Choose the Dyson Outsize
- Superb vacuuming performance: The Outsize is the only cordless stick vacuum I’ve tested to ace the surface debris experiments.
- Extended range: This vacuum lasted over 85 minutes in the lowest setting even with the nozzle.
- Larger dustbin: It more than triples the dirt volume of the V7 (1.89 vs. 0.53 liters).
- Detachable battery: Consumers can easily extend the run time by purchasing an extra battery since it’s detachable.
- Newer tech: The Outsize adapts many of the V11’s features, like the adjustable gates and interactive LCD screen but in a larger form factor.
The Verdict: Know What You Need
Again, choosing between the Dyson V7 and Outsize depends on what features you prioritize.
Do you need something to clean a sizeable 8000-square-foot home with many carpets? Then the Outsize would be the better option with its enormous dustbin capacity and longer run time.
Despite its weaker airflow, the V7 is decent at picking up even embedded dirt.
You’ll need to use the max setting exclusively to achieve similar results with the Outsize using the middle setting, hurting its run time and wearing out the battery prematurely.
It’s not something I’d recommend for cleaning carpets exclusively, but something for maintenance vacuuming tasks inside a tiny home where space is a premium.
