Dyson V7 vs Cyclone V10 Detailed Comparison

It’s been long overdue, but finally, I’ve found time to compile data for the Dyson V7 and V10 – two of the older Dyson cordless vacuum options.

These models are in the older spectrum and are excellent alternatives for those looking for a “cheaper” Dyson cordless.

The V10 bridges the previous generation Dyson products with analog switches to the current batch that slowly turned digital. The V7 is a cheaper and lighter version of the V8 with several sub-variants we’ll look at later.

On paper, the V10 looks like the better alternative, but it’s costlier, and the bulky frame makes it less ergonomic, so which option is better?

I’ve put both through a series of tests to find out.

An Overview of the Dyson V7 MotorHead and V10 Absolute

Introduction to the Dyson V7 MotorHead and Dyson V10 Absolute

Before the V11, Outsize, V15, and V12 Detect were introduced, Dyson’s top options were the V7 and V10 models.

These variants don’t have the premium-level features in the likes of the V12 or V15, but back then, it was some of Dyson’s better options, particularly the V10 Absolute.

It was the first Dyson with the horizontally-aligned dustbin and the three-level power settings, but without the digital display or the auto setting.

But it planted seeds of what was to come with later Dyson models.

The Dyson V7 is a cheaper version of the V8 with a (slightly) smaller motor and dustbin, so it doesn’t run as long or deep clean as well, but it (still) was an excellent option, especially for those looking for a lightweight stick vacuum.

More Power, Larger Dustbin: Dyson V10

Pros

• Much larger dustbin than the V7
• Longer run time
• Three power settings provide more options
• Lots of tools
• Purpose-built tools for hard floors and carpets
• Adjustable gates (on the standard brush roll) ena

Cons

• Costlier
• More top-heavy with a heavier body

Before Dyson introduced its latest products – the V11, Outsize, V15, and V12, the V10 Absolute was the top-end option.

As I’ve said repeatedly, the V10 is the first with the horizontally aligned dustbin to improve dirt volume.

You could see traces of the older Dyson cordless vacuums, like the slide switch and non-detachable battery.

It’s also the first Dyson with a single filter where the pre and post-motor filters are fused.

And it had the most power of any Dyson cordless before the current batch, so it’s above average even with deep-cleaning carpets.

Even with the realigned dustbin, it retains the hygienic system, making it straightforward to empty.

Lastly, it’s the first with a large 3600 mAh lithium-ion battery with a 60-minute run time claim.

It exceeded this claim (61 minutes, to be exact), but only with a non-powered tool (e.g., crevice tool).

Unfortunately, the V10 battery doesn’t have a quick-release latch, so it isn’t easily detachable.

You’ll need to remove several screws to remove the battery, and purchasing extra batteries to extend the range is impossible.

This variant is an excellent option for folks looking for a slight upgrade over the V7 or V8 models with more power and capacity.

Lighter, More Ergonomic: Dyson V7

Pros

• Lighter option with better ergonomics
• Less expensive
• Better option as a handheld
• Lots of sub-model options for diverse preferences

Cons

• Some options leaked heavily during the fog test
• Smaller dustbin capacity
• Shorter range

The Dyson V7 is a sub-variant of the V8 model utilizing a smaller motor and dustbin. Thus, it’s a less expensive option.

Not many folks know this, but the V7 was released after the V8 as a cheaper alternative since the V8 (at the time) was the most expensive Dyson alternative.

A smaller motor and battery are several ways to reduce production costs and lower prices.

Aside from these downgrades, there isn’t much variance between the V7 and V8.

Both have the vertically aligned dustbin – a fixture with previous generation Dyson products, but these have a hygienic system, addressing the issue in the Dyson V6.

Other similarities include the trigger and the slide switch for toggling between two different power settings.

The biggest issue with the downsized battery is the shorter range, slightly over 32 minutes – around 10 minutes less than the V8.

And without the detachable battery, consumers can’t purchase an extra battery to extend range.

Nonetheless, the lightweight frame makes this model a compelling option inside tiny homes where the range isn’t as critical.

But don’t expect high-end cleaning performance, and most sub-models I’ve seen only come with a standard nozzle, so I don’t recommend it on hard floors.

Similarities between the Dyson V7 and V10

Despite being a generation apart, these models have a lot in common, starting with the interface.

1. Controls and Interface

The Dyson V10 retains a similar interface as the V7. Both have the trigger and slide switch for toggling between the suction settings, so there’s not much variance in this aspect.

One potential deciding factor would be the weight, particularly the V10 being more top-heavy with the larger frame, battery, and motor.

It’s the most significant advantage of the V7 since it uses a more compact frame.

2. Two-in-one Versatility

Dyson pioneered the versatile two-in-one cordless stick vacuums with handheld functionality, and these variants are no exception, thanks to the interchangeable tools.

One case for the Dyson V7 is its lighter frame, making it more ergonomic for handheld use, but it doesn’t have as many tools as the V10 Absolute.

Fortunately, the tools for the Dyson V7 and V10 are interchangeable. Folks can purchase extra tools for their specific needs.

3. Hygienic System

Even with the dustbin realignment, Dyson retained the hygienic feature in the V10, making it one of the easier cordless vacuums to empty.

The V7 has the same design as the V8, with the top-mounted lever that pushes debris downwards.

Differences between the Dyson V7 and V10

Next, we’ll look at the variances between these Dyson stick vacuums, starting with the size.

1. Size

There’s a considerable size variance between these products – check the photo above.

The Dyson V10 is (clearly) bulkier with the realigned dustbin, larger motor, and battery.

One reason for the design shift is to increase capacity since James Dyson announced they’d be ending R&D for their corded vacuum cleaners, so there’s more focus on power and capacity.

2. Dustbin

Another noticeable difference is the dustbin, not just the realignment, but the capacity.

Dyson upped the V10’s capacity to 0.77 liters, nearly 37% more than the V7’s 0.53-liter capacity.

This increase enables the V10 to vacuum a larger space without emptying it often, so it’s better suited inside larger homes.

3. Battery Capacity

With the need to improve range, Dyson put a larger battery in the V10 – 3600 mAh, upping the range past the 60-minute mark.

It’s the first Dyson cordless vacuum with a 60-minute claim and exceeds this figure based on tests.

The Dyson V7 uses a smaller battery (only 2100 mAh) since Dyson wanted to lower the production costs to bring the price down, so its run time takes a hit at only 32 minutes.

Unfortunately, neither has a quick-release latch, so consumers need to unfasten several bolts to remove it.

4. Soft Roller [V10 Absolute only]

Only the V10 Absolute has a soft roller attachment, while the V7 MotorHead does not, making it a better option for cleaning hard floors because of its efficiency.

But please note that select V7 sub-models will have this tool, so if you’re looking to clean hard floors, get this model.

5. Standard Nozzle

Another variance is the standard nozzle, where the V10 has the adjustable gates absent in the V7.

The V10 nozzle has a (slightly) chunkier brush roll, offering better performance cleaning hair.

One advantage of the adjustable gates is they can clean large dirt piles without snowplowing them.

6. Filter

The V10 is the first Dyson with a new filter design where the pre and post-motor elements are one piece, while select V7 models like the MotorHead only have one filter.

Subsequent Dyson models after the V10 utilize the same filter design, even its hard-floor-only options.

It’s the same design as the succeeding Dyson models.

One downside with the MotorHead is the lack of a post-motor filter that leaked badly during the fog test.

It’s the only Dyson model I’ve tested with this issue, and it may be a concern for allergy sufferers.

If you’re getting a Dyson V7, opt for the sub-model with a post-motor filter.

Ergonomic Comparison

The Dyson V7’s lightweight frame gives it a considerable advantage in this category since it’s not as tiring for extended stretches, while the V10’s bulky frame adds to the handle weight.

Again, it will boil down to your preference, whether you need the added power and volume or prefer something light and ergonomic (especially for handheld use).

Interface Comparison

There’s not much variance with these products as both don’t have an interactive screen and use the same control types – trigger and slide switch.

The only difference is the V10 has three power settings – one more than the V7.

Dyson only utilized the screen with the full-sized V11 and later models.

Run Time Comparison

A potential deciding factor between the V7 and V10 is the run time, where the V10 wins easily since it uses a larger 3600-milliamp lithium-ion battery.

The V10 nearly doubles the V7 range using the nozzle and non-powered tools.

Again, it’s a choice between a lightweight and ergonomic V7 or the rangier but bulkier V10.

Airflow Comparison

Surprisingly, there isn’t much variance with the Dyson V7 and V10 airflow in the lowest setting – less than a 1 CFM difference, which is negligible.

However, the V10 has the middle setting, which offers a nice balance between run time and suction without overheating the battery.

It’s not as good as the V11, Outsize, or V15 on carpets, but much better than the V7 in the lowest setting (21% more airflow), helping it pick up debris more efficiently.

Cleaning Comparison

One thing that jumps out with these test results is how poorly the V7 MotorHead did on hard floors since it doesn’t have a Fluffy attachment.

The standard nozzle doesn’t have adjustable gates, so large dirt piles are snowplowed, and the lower airflow hampered its performance on heavier debris like sand.

Which option is better on hard floors?

The latter is the better option between the V7 MotorHead and V10 Absolute since it has a soft roller tool.

And the sand on hard floor experiment is proof, with the V10 picking up more (100% vs. 99.2%).

Here’s a before and after shot of the V7.

And the V10.

Even with the standard brush roll (check the photo above), the V10 picked up 100% in the max setting – another proof of its superior airflow.

Edge Cleaning Comparison

Again, the edge cleaning experiment results are close, as the V7 and V10 efficiently picked up debris in this area.

Here are the before and after photos for the V7.

Even with heavier debris like pet litter, it got most of it proficiently, which is impressive, given that it doesn’t have the fluffy tool.

And the before and after shot for the V10.

Again, the impressive results give the sheer quantity of debris I scattered in this area.

Hair Wrap Comparison [on Hard Floors]

Surprisingly, despite the higher airflow, the V10 didn’t do well with the hair wrap test.

The V7 picked up more on hard floors and got a higher percentage even with the nine, eleven, and twelve-inch experiments.

• 5-inch strands: 100%
• 7-inch strands: 99%
• 9-inch strands: 100%
• 11-inch strands: 88%
• 12-inch strands: 88%

These results are impressive, given that it doesn’t have an active anti-tangle system. It got a higher percentage than the V10, even with nine-inch strands at 100% compared to the V10’s 91%.

• 5-inch strands: 100%
• 7-inch strands: 95%
• 9-inch strands: 91%
• 11-inch strands: 46%

The results are disappointing since the V10 is supposed to have the higher airflow, but these are the percentages it got, which I’m reporting to you.

Which is better on carpets?

I’d give the slight edge to the Dyson V10 because it got a higher percentage in the deep cleaning experiment (97.03% vs. 94.93%), plus it runs longer thanks to the middle setting.

Surprisingly, the V7 got a higher percentage in the surface debris tests, probably because it has a better seal behind the brush roll absent in the V10 – I’m not sure why Dyson removed it in the full-sized V-series options.

Hair Wrap Comparison [on Carpets]

The V10 got a higher percentage on carpets, which isn’t surprising given its higher airflow and chunkier brush roll.

Even with nine-inch strands, it got a respectable 91%, but struggled with eleven-inch hair, only getting 46%.

• 5-inch strands: 100%
• 7-inch strands: 95%
• 9-inch strands: 91%
• 11-inch strands: 46%

Finally, the weak airflow caught up with the V7 in these experiments, and it only did well with shorter five and seven-inch strands but not so well with longer nine-inch hair.

• 5-inch strands: 100%
• 7-inch strands: 99%
• 9-inch strands: 38%

It’s not something I’d recommend for cleaning pet hair because of the weak airflow and the small dustbin.

Noise Comparison

One plus aspect of low airflow stick vacuums is the lower noise levels, which is the case with the Dyson V7.

I used a sound meter to test both, and the V7 is less noisy in both settings, only maxing at 73.9 decibels, while the V10 went over 80 decibels.

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

Maintenance

Cordless stick vacuums like the V7 and V10 need regular maintenance to function efficiently for years. Fortunately, upkeep isn’t rocket science for these Dyson products, but be diligent with these tasks to ensure longevity.

1. Nozzle: Clean the nozzles once a week to remove any hair or dust accumulation, especially on the axles, where it can cause unnecessary friction. Fortunately, the brushes are detachable for Dyson products, making this task easy.
2. Dustbin: Empty it after every cleaning cycle to ensure it doesn’t clog the outer filter and prevent dust mites from breeding.
3. Filter: Dyson recommends cleaning the filter once a month under room temperature running water. Don’t use any detergents because these will degrade the filter material.
4. Battery: Avoid using the max setting for extended stretches to avoid overheating the battery and shortening its lifespan.

Product Specifications

Where can I purchase the Dyson V7 and V10?

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

• Dyson V7 Motorhead on Amazon and Walmart
• Dyson V10 Absolute on Amazon

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?

If you look at the price, the Dyson V7 is the cheaper option, but it comes with fewer tools, a smaller battery, less dustbin capacity, and a shorter range.

So being cheaper doesn’t mean it has better value.

The right question is, do you need the V10’s capacity and run time advantages? Or you’re okay with the V7’s limitations and want something lightweight inside a tiny home?

I’ll enumerate some reasons to go with either of these variants below to help you decide.

4 Reasons to Choose the Dyson V7

1. Lighter and more ergonomic: The V7’s lighter frame makes it more ergonomic, easier to steer, and use for longer stretches, especially in its handheld configuration.
2. Cheaper: Since this is an older model, it won’t be as expensive as the V10.
3. Less noisy: The weaker motor emits less noise, so if this is a factor, strongly consider the V7.
4. More sub-variants: The V7 has a bevy of sub-models, each suited for a consumer’s need.

4 Reasons to Choose the Dyson V10

1. Runs longer: The V10’s larger battery helps it run further – up to 61 minutes with a non-powered tool.
2. Better cleaning performance: The higher airflow enables it to pick up more debris on hard floors and carpets (it got a higher overall cleaning test score).
3. Larger dustbin: Its 0.77-liter capacity is more than 30% more than the V7 and requires fewer trips to the trash bin to empty.
4. Purpose-built nozzles: The Absolute variant comes with a soft roller and standard nozzle for efficiently cleaning hard floors and carpets.

The Verdict: Run Time/Dirt Volume or Better Ergonomics?

Choosing between the Dyson V7 and V10 will boil down to these factors. Do you prefer something lightweight or something with a larger dustbin that runs longer?

One of the V7’s best attributes is its lightweight frame, easily making it one of the better steering Dyson options, even on carpet.

However, the smaller battery means it won’t run as long, and the compact frame limits the debris it can hold, which are its biggest cons.

The V10 solves these issues since it has a larger battery, and the horizontally aligned dustbin can hold more dirt at the expense of a more top-heavy design.

Answering these questions will help determine what you choose.